bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrative analysis of cell adhesion molecules in glioblastoma identified prostaglandin F2 receptor inhibitor (PTGFRN) as an essential gene
Authors: Mala Uchurappa , Baral Tapan Kumar , Somasundaram Kumaravel
Published: June 2022

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults exhibiting infiltration into surrounding tissues, recurrence, and resistance to therapy. GBM infiltration is accomplished by many deregulated factors such as cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), which are membrane proteins that participate in cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions to regulate survival, proliferation, migration, and stemness.

Methods

A comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of CAMs (n = 518) in multiple available datasets revealed genetic and epigenetic alterations among CAMs in GBM. Univariate Cox regression analysis using TCGA dataset identified 127 CAMs to be significantly correlated with survival. The poor prognostic indicator PTGFRN was chosen to study its role in glioma. Silencing of PTGFRN in glioma cell lines was achieved by the stable expression of short hairpin RNA (shRNA) against the PTGFRN gene. PTGFRN was silenced and performed cell growth, migration, invasion, cell cycle, and apoptosis assays. Neurosphere and limiting dilution assays were also performed after silencing of PTGFRN in GSCs.

Results

Among the differentially regulated CAMs (n = 181, 34.9%), major proportion of them were found to be regulated by miRNAs (n = 95, 49.7%) followed by DNA methylation (n = 32, 16.7%), and gene copy number variation (n = 12, 6.2%). We found that PTGFRN to be upregulated in GBM tumor samples and cell lines with a significant poor prognostic correlation with patient survival. Silencing PTGFRN diminished cell growth, colony formation, anchorage-independent growth, migration, and invasion and led to cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis. At the mechanistic level, silencing of PTGFRN reduced pro-proliferative and promigratory signaling pathways such as ERK, AKT, and mTOR. PTGFRN upregulation was found to be due to the loss of its promoter methylation and downregulation of miR-137 in GBM. PTGFRN was also found to be higher in glioma stem-like cells (GSCs) than the matched differentiated glioma cells (DGCs) and is required for GSC growth and survival. Silencing of PTGFRN in GSCs reduced transcript levels of reprogramming factors (Olig2, Pou3f2, Sall2, and Sox2).

Conclusion

In this study, we provide a comprehensive overview of the differential regulation of CAMs and the probable causes for their deregulation in GBM. We also establish an oncogenic role of PTGFRN and its regulation by miR-137 in GBM, thus signifying it as a potential therapeutic target.
Combined analysis of preoperative and postoperative lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio precisely predicts outcomes of patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Miyatani Kozo , Sawata Shohei , Makinoya Masahiro , Miyauchi Wataru , Shimizu Shota , Shishido Yuji , Matsunaga Tomoyuki , Yamamoto Manabu , Tokuyasu Naruo , Takano Shuichi , Sakamoto Teruhisa , Hasegawa Toshimichi , Saito Hiroaki , Fujiwara Yoshiyuki
Published: June 2022

Background

The systemic inflammatory response resulting from the complex interactions between cancer and the host plays an important role in cancer development. Recently, the lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR), which is a hematological and biochemical marker that reflects the systemic inflammatory response and nutritional status, has been reported to be associated with poor survival. Similar results were observed in patients with certain cancer types. However, these studies focused on the preoperative LCR, and thus far, no studies have reported the relationship between postoperative LCR and prognosis in patients with gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

This study enrolled 455 patients with a histopathological diagnosis of gastric adenocarcinoma who underwent curative surgery at our institution between 2005 and 2018. The relationship between both the preoperative and postoperative LCR and the prognosis of patients with GC was retrospectively investigated.

Results

Preoperative LCR showed significant correlations with tumor-related factors, such as tumor size, depth of invasion, and lymph node metastasis. By contrast, no correlation was observed between postoperative LCR and tumor-related factors. The 5 year survival rate was significantly worse in patients with low preoperative LCR than in those with high preoperative LCR (65.4% vs. 83.9%, p < 0.0001). Similarly, the 5 year survival rate was also significantly worse in patients with low postoperative LCR than in those with high postoperative LCR (67.0% vs. 84.1%, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, combination analysis of the pre- and postoperative LCR revealed that the prognosis of patients with both low pre- and postoperative LCR was worse in patients with GC (5 year survival rate was 52.0%). A multivariate analysis indicated that a low pre- and postoperative LCR and age and lymph node metastasis were independent prognostic indicators.

Conclusions

The combination of preoperative and postoperative LCR appears to be useful in predicting the prognosis of patients with GC.
Synchronous multiple primary tumors in patients with malignant lymphoma: a retrospective study
Authors: Yagi Yu , Kanemasa Yusuke , Sasaki Yuki , Ohigashi An , Morita Yuka , Tamura Taichi , Nakamura Shohei , Kageyama Akihiko , Omuro Yasushi , Shimoyama Tatsu
Published: June 2022

Background

Synchronous multiple primary malignant tumors (sMPMTs) are sometimes diagnosed in patients with malignant lymphoma. We herein investigated the prognostic impact of sMPMT in lymphoma patients and the optimal treatment strategy.

Methods

Seventy-five patients with sMPMTs (5.8%) among 1285 patients with lymphoma newly diagnosed between August 2004 and April 2020 were enrolled.

Results

In patients with indolent lymphoma, those with sMPMTs had a worse prognosis than those without sMPMTs (5-year overall survival [OS]: 73.4% and 87.8%, respectively; P = 0.047). Among those with high and low tumor burden, the cumulative rate of death due to solid tumors was significantly higher in patients with sMPMTs than those without sMPMTs (high tumor burden: 26.7% vs. 1.6%, P < 0.001; low tumor burden: 12.7% vs. 1.0%, P = 0.003). The presence of sMPMTs did not have a significant impact on outcomes in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (5-year OS: 65.4% and 66.9%, respectively; P = 0.74; 5-year progression-free survival [PFS]: 65.5% and 59.9%, respectively; P = 0.65). However, the cumulative rate of death from solid tumor in patients with sMPMTs was significantly higher than in patients without sMPMTs (5-year cumulative rate: 7.4% and 2.1%, respectively; P = 0.004). The treatment sequence did not have a significant effect on outcomes or the relative dose intensity of chemotherapy.

Conclusions

In patients with indolent lymphoma, those with sMPMTs had a significantly worse prognosis than those without sMPMTs, mainly because of high mortality due to solid tumors. The presence of sMPMTs was not a significant prognostic factor in patients with DLBCL. It is important to assess the status and need for early treatment of each type of malignancy in patients with sMPMTs.
Positive dysphotopsia after intrascleral intraocular lens fixation: a case report
Authors: Mito Tsuyoshi , Kawakami Honoka , Ikoma Toru , Ukai Yuki , Tsuchiya Mizuho , Kubo Eri , Sasaki Hiroshi
Published: June 2022

Background

Positive dysphotopsia is a symptom caused by the reflection of incident light through the pupil at the inner surface of the intraocular lens (IOL) edge after cataract surgery and is perceived as an abnormal arcuate or radiating photopic image at night or indoors with a light source. Although positive dysphotopsia is one of the most important symptoms that affect patients after cataract surgery, it is still not well known even among ophthalmologists. Positive dysphotopsia as the cause of patient complaint following intraocular surgery other than cataract surgery has not been identified.

Case Presentation

A 52-year-old man underwent IOL extraction and intrascleral IOL fixation for bilateral IOL subluxation at another hospital. The right eye had good subjective visibility, but the patient noticed symptoms of light sources appearing divided into multiple lights indoors after surgery in the left eye. Because the cause of the symptoms could not be identified, the patient visited our department. At the time of his first visit, the corrected visual acuity in both eyes was good, and ocular findings in eye position, motility, intraocular pressure, and fundus were within normal limits. The elongated holes of peripheral iridectomy (PI) created during previous intrascleral IOL fixation were observed to be approximately 2 mm in length on the nasal side in both eyes. The PI hole in the right eye was covered by the optics of the IOL, whereas the edge of the IOL overlapped the center of the PI hole in the left eye. Accordingly, we concluded that the abnormal photopic image in the left eye was caused by positive dysphotopsia, in which light passing through the PI hole was reflected by the edge of the IOL. We attempted surgical closure of the PI hole, resulting in the complete disappearance of positive dysphotopsia.

Conclusions

A PI hole created during intrascleral IOL fixation may cause postoperative positive dysphotopsia depending on the position of the IOL edge. Thus, surgeons should be aware of the importance of the size and location of the PI hole when creating it during surgery.
The AIMS home-video method: parental experiences and appraisal for use in neonatal follow-up clinics
Authors: Suir I. , Oosterhaven J. , Boonzaaijer M. , Nuysink J. , Jongmans M.
Published: June 2022

Background

In The Netherlands, prematurely born infants and their parents are offered regular developmental check-ups in a hospital setting. In line with providing healthcare at distance, the use of video footage showing the infant’s behavior and movements, taken by parents at home and assessed by professionals online, might be a fruitful future practice. The focus of this study was to gain insight into parental experiences with the Alberta Infant Motor Scale home-video method and their appraisal of its applicability for use in an outpatient neonatal follow-up clinic.

Method

A qualitative descriptive study among parents of healthy extremely or very premature infants (GA 26.2–31.5 weeks) participating in a longitudinal study of motor development between 3–18 months corrected age. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted and transcribed verbatim. Data was analyzed independently. Inductive content analysis was performed following the process of the AIMS home-video method.

Results

Parents appraised the AIMS home-video method as manageable and fun to do. Instructions, instruction film, and checklists were clear. Transferring the video footage from their phone to their computer and uploading it to the web portal was sometimes time-consuming. Parents gained a better awareness of their infant’s motor development and found the provided feedback a confirmation of what they already thought about their infant’s development and was reassuring that their child was doing well. First-time parents seemed more uncertain and had a greater need for information about (motor) development, but on the other hand, also had confidence in their child.

All parents thought that home-videos can be an addition to follow-up visits, but cannot replace (all) visits. It may be an opportunity to reduce the frequency of hospital visits, while still having their infant monitored.

Conclusion

Parents appraised the AIMS home-video method positively and are of the opinion that home-videos can be of added value in monitoring infants at risk in neonatal follow-up additional to hospital visits. In future research a user-friendly application and/or platform to exchange video footage safely between parents and professionals should be developed with all possible stakeholders involved and implementation should be explored.
Rapidly adapting an effective health promoting intervention for older adults—choose to move—for virtual delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Gray Samantha M. , Franke Thea , Sims-Gould Joanie , McKay Heather A.
Published: June 2022

Background

The COVID-19 (COVID) pandemic shifted way of life for all Canadians. ‘Stay-at-home’ public health directives counter transmission of COVID but may cause, or exacerbate, older adults’ physical and social health challenges. To counter unintentional consequences of these directives, we rapidly adapted an effective health promoting intervention for older adults—Choose to Move (CTM)—to be delivered virtually throughout British Columbia (BC). Our specific objectives were to 1. describe factors that influence whether implementation of CTM virtually was acceptable, and feasible to deliver, and 2. assess whether virtual delivery retained fidelity to CTM’s core components.

Methods

We conducted a 3-month rapid adaptation feasibility study to evaluate the implementation of CTM, virtually. Our evaluation targeted two levels of implementation within a larger socioeconomic continuum: 1. the prevention delivery system, and 2. older adult participants. We implemented 33 programs via Zoom during BC’s 1st wave acute and transition stages of COVID (April–October 2020). We conducted semi-structured 30-45 min telephone focus groups with 9 activity coaches (who delivered CTM), and semi-structured 30-45 min telephone interviews with 30 older adult participants, at 0- and 3-months. We used deductive framework analysis for all qualitative data to identify themes.

Results

Activity coaches and older adults identified three key factors that influenced acceptability (a safe and supportive space to socially connect, the technological gateway, and the role of the central support unit) and two key factors that influenced feasibility (a virtual challenge worth taking on and CTM flexibility) of delivering CTM virtually. Activity coaches also reported adapting CTM during implementation; adaptations comprised two broad categories (time allocation and physical activity levels).

Conclusion

It was feasible and acceptable to deliver CTM virtually. Programs such as CTM have potential to mitigate the unintended consequences of public health orders during COVID associated with reduced physical activity, social isolation, and loneliness. Adaptation and implementation strategies must be informed by community delivery partners and older adults themselves. Pragmatic, virtual health promoting interventions that can be adapted as contexts rapidly shift may forevermore be an essential part of our changing world.
Influence of sub-national social health insurance scheme on enrollees’ health seeking behaviour in Anambra state, Nigeria: a pre and post study
Authors: Onyemaechi Simeon , Ezenwaka Uchenna
Published: June 2022

Background

Appropriate health-seeking behaviour (HSB) is crucial for improving health outcomes and achieving universal health coverage (UHC). Accessing healthcare through the state social health insurance scheme (SSHIS) could lead to improved HSB. The study explores the influence of access to healthcare through health insurance on the HSB of the enrollees of the SSHIS in southeast, Nigeria.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study undertaken in twelve health facilities in Anambra state using quantitative and qualitative research methods. Data were collected through a facility-based survey (n = 447) and sex-disaggregated focus group discussions (n = 12) of health insurance enrollees. Univariate and bivariate analyses were performed for quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed using a manual content approach.

Result

The findings revealed a positive change in enrollee’s HSB post-health insurance enrollment. Majority (83%) of the respondents reported that they immediately take action when ill post-health insurance enrollment as against 34% (pre-health insurance) resulting in a 49% increase, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.02). There was a statistically significant association between positive HSB and marital status (p < 0.04); educational level (p < 0.00); occupation (p < 0.03) and ownership of health facility (p < 0.00). There was an increase in the percentage of enrollees who use the hospital as their first choice of provider during an illness episode post-health insurance enrollment. This increased from 37.4% to 90.2% (post-health insurance enrollment), representing a 52.8% increase, which is statistically significant (p < 0.03), in seeking care in hospitals. Similarly, the percentage (46%) of enrollees using patent medicine vendors (PMVs) as their first choice of provider when ill prior to enrollment in health insurance decreased to 8.1% post-health insurance enrollment, representing a 38% decline with a statistically significant (p < 0.00) drop in PMV patronage. Reasons for positive HSB include low cost of services and availability of quality care such as quality drugs, presence of doctors, and other skilled health workers by the health insurance facilities.

Conclusion

Health insurance has been established as an effective strategy for improving appropriate HSB. Hence, increasing coverage of health insurance among the uninsured is crucial in improving access to quality and affordable health care towards achieving UHC, particularly in developing countries.
Smartphone-based behavioral monitoring and patient-reported outcomes in adults with rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease
Authors: Mollard Elizabeth , Pedro Sofia , Schumacher Rebecca , Michaud Kaleb
Published: June 2022

Background

Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMD) are associated with depression, fatigue, and disturbed sleep – symptoms that often impact behavior and activity. Patient reported outcomes (PROs) are a way of collecting information on the patient symptom experience directly from the individual. The purpose of this study was to measure and compare user smartphone sensor and activity data in adults with RMDs and assess associations with PROs.

Methods

We invited adults with RMDs enrolled in the FORWARD Databank to participate by installing a custom app on their smartphone and answering PROs (pain, global, HAQ-II) questions daily and weekly over 3 years. Passive data collected included mobility distance, unique calls and text messages, call durations, and number of missed calls. Confounders included sociodemographic, clinical, passive phone behavior, and seasonal factors. Kappa statistics between PRO and flares were computed to measure agreement. The agreement between daily and weekly VAS pain was estimated using the intraclass (ICC) correlation of a two-way random effect model. The relationship between the weekly PRO outcomes and the passive phone data was analyzed with a linear mixed-effect model (LMM), including a random intercept for participant and slope for time in the study with an unstructured covariate structure.

Results

Of the 446 participants, the mean (SD) age was 54 (12) years, most (65.5%) had rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the vast majority (91%) were female, and the US Northeast has the least representation (12%). Longer reaction times, interaction diversity, and higher mobility were associated with worse PROs while longer text messages were associated with better PROs. Participants in this study showed good levels of adherence which holds promise for future interventions using passive behavior measures in self-management and clinical follow-up.

Conclusion

This is the first study to examine passive smartphone behavior with PROs in RMDs and we found significant associations between these behaviors and important health outcomes of pain and function. As smartphone usage continues to change, future studies should validate and expand on our findings with a goal of finding changes in patient symptoms passively through mobile device monitoring.
Efficacy evaluation of albumin-bound paclitaxel combined with carboplatin as neoadjuvant chemotherapy for primary epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Wang Huan , Fan Lingyun , Wu Xia , Han Yimin
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of albumin-bound paclitaxel combined with carboplatin (Nab-TC) with that of traditional solvent-based paclitaxel combined with carboplatin (TC) as neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) regimens for primary epithelial ovarian cancer.

Methods

Eighty patients with advanced primary epithelial ovarian cancer admitted for treatment at the Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital from January 2015 to January 2020 were retrospectively selected. All patients underwent surgery after 1–4 courses of NAC with Nab-TC or TC regimen. Among the patients included for study, 40 patients in each group.

Results

The ORR in Nab-TC group was better compared to TC group (45% vs 40%), but the difference was not significant (P = 0.651). While the reduction rate of CA-125 value in the Nab-TC group was significantly better (P < 0.05). The postoperative complication rate such as postoperative blood transfusion (5% vs 35%) and postoperative infusion of human albumin (25% vs 55%) were significantly lower relative to the TC group. The median progression-free survival of the Nab-TC group was significantly longer relative to the TC group (20 months vs 13 months,P = 0.012), and the patient’s quality of life was also better in the Nab-TC group (P < 0.05). Our study demonstrated that Nab-TC regimen and R0 represented the independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion

The efficacy of the Nab-TC regimen as NAC for advanced primary epithelial ovarian cancer was non-inferior to that of the TC regimen along with a lower incidence of adverse reactions, a longer PFS and a higher quality of life, supporting its therapeutic value in the clinic.
Experiences of persons with multiple sclerosis with rehabilitation—a qualitative interview study
Authors: Ghaidar Donya , Sippel Anna , Riemann-Lorenz Karin , Kofahl Christopher , Morrison Rebecca , Kleiter Ingo , Schmidt Stephan , Dettmers Christian , Schulz Holger , Heesen Christoph
Published: June 2022

Background

Managing multiple sclerosis (MS) includes different treatment approaches. Rehabilitation is a key strategy in MS for improving functioning, activity and participation. As part of a larger study on overall patient experiences with different treatment approaches, this study aims to give an overview of different patients’ experiences and perspectives on inpatient rehabilitation in MS.

Methods

We conducted problem-centered interviews in 50 persons with MS in Germany, of whom most had relapsing–remitting MS. We used the maximum variation sampling method during recruitment. Data were analyzed thematically.

Results

As a result of the analysis, three major themes were identified: 1) factors contributing to the decision-making concerning rehabilitation, 2) experience with the rehabilitation setting, 3) benefits of rehabilitation treatments. The treating physicians’ attitude had a major impact on the decision to either opt for rehabilitation or not. Setting goals prior to rehabilitation was given a high priority. Exchanging experiences with other persons with MS presented a major benefit from rehabilitation while for some being separated from regular daily life resulted in a more ambiguous attitude ranging from appreciation of escaping daily hassles to substantial behavioral change management.

Conclusion

Patients reported various experiences in the process of decision-making with regard to rehabilitation. Physicians´ advice, goal setting and the selection of the most suitable rehabilitation clinic were considered most relevant.
Comprehensive identification of RNA transcripts and construction of RNA network in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Liu Pengcheng , Wang Yucong , Zhang Ningning , Zhao Xiaomin , Li Renming , Wang Yu , Chen Chen , Wang Dandan , Zhang Xiaoming , Chen Liang , Zhao Dahai
Published: June 2022

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the world’s leading causes of death and a major chronic disease, highly prevalent in the aging population exposed to tobacco smoke and airborne pollutants, which calls for early and useful biomolecular predictors. Roles of noncoding RNAs in COPD have been proposed, however, not many studies have systematically investigated the crosstalk among various transcripts in this context. The construction of RNA functional networks such as lncRNA-mRNA, and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA interaction networks could therefore facilitate our understanding of RNA interactions in COPD. Here, we identified the expression of RNA transcripts in RNA sequencing from COPD patients, and the potential RNA networks were further constructed.

Methods

All fresh peripheral blood samples of three patients with COPD and three non-COPD patients were collected and examined for mRNA, miRNA, lncRNA, and circRNA expression followed by qRT-PCR validation. We also examined mRNA expression to enrich relevant biological pathways. lncRNA-mRNA coexpression network and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in COPD were constructed.

Results

In this study, we have comprehensively identified and analyzed the differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs in peripheral blood of COPD patients with high-throughput RNA sequencing. 282 mRNAs, 146 lncRNAs, 85 miRNAs, and 81 circRNAs were differentially expressed. GSEA analysis showed that these differentially expressed RNAs correlate with several critical biological processes such as “ncRNA metabolic process”, “ncRNA processing”, “ribosome biogenesis”, “rRNAs metabolic process”, “tRNA metabolic process” and “tRNA processing”, which might be participating in the progression of COPD. RT-qPCR with more clinical COPD samples was used for the validation of some differentially expressed RNAs, and the results were in high accordance with the RNA sequencing. Given the putative regulatory function of lncRNAs and circRNAs, we have constructed the co-expression network between lncRNA and mRNA. To demonstrate the potential interactions between circRNAs and miRNAs, we have also constructed a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network of differential expression circRNA-miRNA-mRNA in COPD.

Conclusions

In this study, we have identified and analyzed the differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs, providing a systematic view of the differentially expressed RNA in the context of COPD. We have also constructed the lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network, and for the first time constructed the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA in COPD. This study reveals the RNA involvement and potential regulatory roles in COPD, and further uncovers the interactions among those RNAs, which will assist the pathological investigations of COPD and shed light on therapeutic targets exploration for COPD.
Factors associated with the health-related quality of life among people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: a study using the Health Utilities Index (HUI)
Authors: Szabo Shelagh M. , Audhya Ivana F. , Rogula Basia , Feeny David , Gooch Katherine L.
Published: June 2022

Background

Data on health state utility in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are few. This study estimated mean utility values by age, ambulatory status and over time, and investigated which aspects of health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) are most strongly associated with utility in DMD.

Methods

Data from placebo-treated ambulant boys with DMD with exon 51 skip amenable mutations, (NCT01254019), were included. Ambulatory function assessments were conducted at baseline and every 12 weeks for the trial duration. Family member proxies completed the Health Utility Index (HUI) at baseline, 24 and 48 weeks; and HUI3 and HUI2 utility values were summarized. Changes in HUI attribute level over time, and predictors of changes in utility, were explored.

Results

Sixty-one boys (mean [range] age of 8.0 [5–16] years) were included in the analysis. Mean baseline utilities were 0.82 (HUI3) and 0.87 (HUI2); and utilities were 0.35 (HUI3) and 0.55 (HUI2) after loss of ambulation (LOA, where applicable). Over the follow-up period mean utility declined more among the older versus younger boys. Pain accounted for the highest proportion of variability (42%) in change in HUI3 utility from baseline to week 48, while for HUI2, self-care (39%) did. After LOA, change in ambulation levels explained 88% of the decline in mean HUI3 utility and change in mobility levels explained 66% of the decline in mean HUI2 utility.

Conclusions

Utility values among this sample were higher than previously published estimates. In younger boys utility remained relatively stable, but older boys and those losing ambulation experienced important declines over follow-up.
Trajectories of physical activity and sedentary time in Norwegian children aged 3–9 years: a 5-year longitudinal study
Authors: Aadland Eivind , Okely Anthony D. , Nilsen Ada Kristine Ofrim
Published: June 2022

Background

Limited evidence exists regarding the longitudinal development of physical activity during early to mid childhood. The aim of this study was to determine physical activity and sedentary time trajectories in children aged 3‒9 years from Western Norway.

Methods

A sample of 294 children (51% boys; aged 3‒5 years at baseline) from the Sogn og Fjordane Preschool Physical Activity Study was followed annually over 5 years (2015‒2019). Physical activity was measured every autumn during this period using hip-based accelerometry (ActiGraph GT3X+). Data was processed as counts. We used linear mixed models to analyse the data. Primary analyses included trajectories for total and intensity-specific physical activity (light, moderate, vigorous, and moderate to vigorous intensity) and sedentary time for boys and girls using 1-s epoch. Secondary analyses included trajectories for weekdays versus weekend days, preschool/school hours versus after school hours, and 1- versus 60-s epoch lengths.

Results

Over the total day, significant associations with age were found for boys and girls for all physical activity intensities and sedentary time (p < .001). Total physical activity peaked at age 5, whereas intensity-specific physical activity levels peaked at age 3 to 8 years (light intensity: 3–4 years; moderate intensity: 4–7 years; vigorous intensity: 7–8 years; moderate to vigorous intensity: 5–8 years). Boys had higher physical activity levels and more favourable trajectories than girls. Sedentary time increased from ages 3 to 9. Changes over time were larger for weekdays than for weekend days and larger for preschool/school hours than for after school hours. The use of a 60-s epoch resulted in larger changes over time than a 1-s epoch.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest physical activity levels peaked between the ages of 3 and 8 years. Finding ways to prevent decline in physical activity during the transition from preschool to primary school is important, especially for girls. Standardising epoch length will help when comparing physical activity and sedentary behaviour across studies.
Treatments of chronic fatigue syndrome and its debilitating comorbidities: a 12-year population-based study
Authors: Leong Kam-Hang , Yip Hei-Tung , Kuo Chien-Feng , Tsai Shin-Yi
Published: June 2022

Background

This study aims to provide 12-year nationwide epidemiology data to investigate the epidemiology and comorbidities of and therapeutic options for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) by analyzing the National Health Insurance Research Database.

Methods

6306 patients identified as having CFS during the 2000–2012 period and 6306 controls (with similar distributions of age and sex) were analyzed.

Result

The patients with CFS were predominantly female and aged 35–64 years in Taiwan and presented a higher proportion of depression, anxiety disorder, insomnia, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, renal disease, type 2 diabetes, gout, dyslipidemia, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren syndrome, and herpes zoster. The use of selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs), Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), benzodiazepine (BZD), Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs), muscle relaxants, analgesic drugs, psychotherapies, and exercise therapies was prescribed significantly more frequently in the CFS cohort than in the control group.

Conclusion

This large national study shared the mainstream therapies of CFS in Taiwan, we noticed these treatments reported effective to relieve symptoms in previous studies. Furthermore, our findings indicate that clinicians should have a heightened awareness of the comorbidities of CFS, especially in psychiatric problems.
Sensory substitution of elbow proprioception to improve myoelectric control of upper limb prosthesis: experiment on healthy subjects and amputees
Authors: Guémann Matthieu , Halgand Christophe , Bastier Aurélia , Lansade Céline , Borrini Léo , Lapeyre Éric , Cattaert Daniel , de Rugy Aymar
Published: June 2022

Background

Current myoelectric prostheses lack proprioceptive information and rely on vision for their control. Sensory substitution is increasingly developed with non-invasive vibrotactile or electrotactile feedback, but most systems are designed for grasping or object discriminations, and few were tested for online control in amputees. The objective of this work was evaluate the effect of a novel vibrotactile feedback on the accuracy of myoelectric control of a virtual elbow by healthy subjects and participants with an upper-limb amputation at humeral level.

Methods

Sixteen, healthy participants and 7 transhumeral amputees performed myoelectric control of a virtual arm under different feedback conditions: vision alone (VIS), vibration alone (VIB), vision plus vibration (VIS + VIB), or no feedback at all (NO). Reach accuracy was evaluated by angular errors during discrete as well as back and forth movements. Healthy participants’ workloads were assessed with the NASA-TLX questionnaire, and feedback conditions were ranked according to preference at the end of the experiment.

Results

Reach errors were higher in NO than in VIB, indicating that our vibrotactile feedback improved performance as compared to no feedback. Conditions VIS and VIS+VIB display similar levels of performance and produced lower errors than in VIB. Vision remains therefore critical to maintain good performance, which is not ameliorated nor deteriorated by the addition of vibrotactile feedback. The workload associated with VIB was higher than for VIS and VIS+VIB, which did not differ from each other. 62.5% of healthy subjects preferred the VIS+VIB condition, and ranked VIS and VIB second and third, respectively.

Conclusion

Our novel vibrotactile feedback improved myoelectric control of a virtual elbow as compared to no feedback. Although vision remained critical, the addition of vibrotactile feedback did not improve nor deteriorate the control and was preferred by participants. Longer training should improve performances with VIB alone and reduce the need of vision for close-loop prosthesis control.
Improved wood species identification based on multi-view imagery of the three anatomical planes
Authors: Rosa da Silva Núbia , Deklerck Victor , Baetens Jan M. , Van den Bulcke Jan , De Ridder Maaike , Rousseau Mélissa , Bruno Odemir Martinez , Beeckman Hans , Van Acker Joris , De Baets Bernard , Verwaeren Jan
Published: June 2022

Background

The identification of tropical African wood species based on microscopic imagery is a challenging problem due to the heterogeneous nature of the composition of wood combined with the vast number of candidate species. Image classification methods that rely on machine learning can facilitate this identification, provided that sufficient training material is available. Despite the fact that the three main anatomical sections contain information that is relevant for species identification, current methods only rely on transverse sections. Additionally, commonly used procedures for evaluating the performance of these methods neglect the fact that multiple images often originate from the same tree, leading to an overly optimistic estimate of the performance.

Results

We introduce a new image dataset containing microscopic images of the three main anatomical sections of 77 Congolese wood species. A dedicated multi-view image classification method is developed and obtains an accuracy (computed using the naive but common approach) of 95%, outperforming the single-view methods by a large margin. An in-depth analysis shows that naive accuracy estimates can lead to a dramatic over-prediction, of up to 60%, of the accuracy.

Conclusions

Additional images from non-transverse sections can boost the performance of machine-learning-based wood species identification methods. Additionally, care should be taken when evaluating the performance of machine-learning-based wood species identification methods to avoid an overestimation of the performance.
Short-term results of intra-articular injections of stromal vascular fraction for early knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Aletto Cristian , Giordano Lorenzo , Quaranta Marco , Zara Arnaldo , Notarfrancesco Donato , Maffulli Nicola
Published: June 2022

Background

In knee osteoarthritis, progressive degeneration of the articular cartilage surface produces disability and chronic pain. Intra-articular injections of stromal vascular fraction (SVF) could be an innovative approach to manage patients with early knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

Between June 2019 and November 2020, 123 patients were recruited to receive intra-articular injection of SVF. Radiographic evidence of degenerative joint disease was classified according to Kellgren and Lawrence grades. Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) and visual analog scale (VAS) were collected preoperatively, at 1 month, and after 6 months from injection.

Results

There was a statistically significant improvement of KOOS and VAS of all patients to 6 months (p < 0.05). The mean KOOS before injection was 51.4 ± 16.5, after 1 month it was 75.5 ± 15.8, and at 6 months it was 87.6 ± 7.7. Stratifying the mean KOOS according to Kellgren–Lawrence Grades, the difference remained statistically significant (p < 0.05). The patients’ mean VAS before injection was 6.5, after 1 month it was 3.5, and after 6 months it was 2.4. No complications were observed.

Conclusions

Intra-articular knee injection of SVF is safe and effective to ameliorate the clinical and functional scores in patients with early knee osteoarthritis for 6 months.
Persistence and risk factors of high-risk human papillomavirus infection among HIV positive and HIV negative tanzanian women: a cohort study
Authors: Swai Patricia , Rasch Vibeke , Linde Ditte S. , Mchome Bariki , Manongi Rachel , Wu Chun Sen , Waldstrom Marianne , Iftner Thomas , Mwaiselage Julius , Kjaer Susanne K.
Published: June 2022

Background

High-risk (HR) human papillomavirus (HPV) persistence is the most important risk factor for cervical cancer. We have assessed the type-specific HR HPV persistence among HIV positive and HIV negative Tanzanian women and factors associated with HR HPV persistence.

Methods

In a cohort study including 4080 Tanzanian women, 3074 attended follow-up examination (up to 32 months after enrollment). Cervical samples were obtained for liquid-based cytology and HPV DNA testing using Hybrid Capture 2 and Inno-Lipa Extra II. Information on lifestyle factors was collected through a personal interview. The probability of HR HPV persistence at a given time point since enrollment was estimated non-parametrically using the EMICM algorithm.

Results

Among the 462 women HR HPV positive at enrollment, 158 had at least one identical type detected at follow-up. The probability of persistence at 18 months after enrollment was 34.2 (95% CI 29.0–39.4). Stratifying by HIV status, the persistence probability was 42.9% (95% CI 33.5–51.9) among HIV positive, and 28.0% (95% CI 22.1–34.2) among HIV negative. Overall, HR HPV persistence was most common for HPV58, 35, 16, 31, and 52. Among HIV positive women it was HPV45, and HPV16, followed by HPV58 and HPV18, and among HIV negative women it was HPV31, HPV33 and HPV58. Risk factors associated with persistence of HR HPV were older age, longer interval between enrollment and follow-up, binge drinking, and HIV status.

Conclusions

HR HPV persistence was common in Tanzania, and most common among HIV positive women. Overall, persistence was most frequent for HPV 58, 35, 16, 31 and 52. The nonavalent HPV vaccine should be considered.
Single_cell_GRN: gene regulatory network identification based on supervised learning method and Single-cell RNA-seq data
Authors: Yang Bin , Bao Wenzheng , Chen Baitong , Song Dan
Published: June 2022

Single-cell RNA-seq overcomes the shortcomings of conventional transcriptome sequencing technology and could provide a powerful tool for distinguishing the transcriptome characteristics of various cell types in biological tissues, and comprehensively revealing the heterogeneity of gene expression between cells. Many Intelligent Computing methods have been presented to infer gene regulatory network (GRN) with single-cell RNA-seq data. In this paper, we investigate the performances of seven classifiers including support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), Naive Bayesian (NB), GBDT, logical regression (LR), decision tree (DT) and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) for solving the binary classification problems of GRN inference with single-cell RNA-seq data (Single_cell_GRN). In SVM, three different kernel functions (linear, polynomial and radial basis function) are utilized, respectively. Three real single-cell RNA-seq datasets from mouse and human are utilized. The experiment results prove that in most cases supervised learning methods (SVM, RF, NB, GBDT, LR, DT and KNN) perform better than unsupervised learning method (GENIE3) in terms of AUC. SVM, RF and KNN have the better performances than other four classifiers. In SVM, linear and polynomial kernels are more fit to model single-cell RNA-seq data.
Preparation and application of FNAOSiPPEA/Cu(II) as a novel magnetite almondshell based Lewis acid-Bronsted base nano-catalyst for the synthesis of pyrimidobenzothiazoles
Authors: Mallah Dina , Mirjalili Bi Bi Fatemeh
Published: June 2022

Background

The magnetic nano-catalysts improve the contact between substrates and catalyst considerably and simple isolation of catalyst from reaction mixture. In this study, Fe3O4@nano-almondshell@OSi(CH2)3/2-(1-piperazinyl)ethylamine/Cu(II) abbreviated (FNAOSiPPEA/Cu(II)), was prepared, characterized and applied for the synthesis of 4H-pyrimido[2,1-b]benzothiazole.

Results

FNAOSiPPEA/Cu(II) as a bio-based nano-catalyst was prepared from the complexation of copper on 2-(1-piperazinyl)ethylamine, which was immobilized on Fe3O4@nano-almondshell@OSi(CH2)3 section. This new heterogeneous bifunctional Lewis acid/Bronsted base catalyst (FNAOSiPPEA/Cu(II)) was characterized by various techniques such as FT-IR, FESEM, TGA, EDS-MAP, XRD, VSM, BET, TEM, and XPS. So, the catalytic performance of this recyclable nano-catalyst was determined to promote the synthesis of 4H-pyrimido[2,1-b]benzothiazole derivatives at 100 °C under solvent-free conditions.

Conclusions

Magnetite nano-catalyst of (FNAOSiPPEA/Cu(II)) is easily separated by an external magnet and successfully reused up at least 3 times with a slight loss of yield of the desired product.
Psychosocial aspects of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion in children with type 1 diabetes in Egypt; a limited resources country perspective
Authors: El Samahy Mona Hussein , Salah Nouran Yousef , Abdeen Mai Seifeldin , Falastin Batrishia Rafat Kamel
Published: June 2022

Background

Novel innovations continue to emerge in type-1 diabetes (T1D) management aiming to improve glycemic control. Assessing the psychosocial outcomes of different treatment modalities is specifically crucial among children with T1D and differs from one population to another.

Objectives

To compare the health related quality of life (HRQoL) and confidence in diabetes self-management (CIDS) among children with T1D on continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) versus multiple daily injections (MDI) and to correlate them with the efficacy of glycemic control, Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Children and Adolescents(MINI-KID) depression module and socioeconomic-standard scale.

Methods

This real life study (ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT04756011) included 60 children with T1D (30 on CSII and 30 on MDI), aged 6–18 years. Disease duration, insulin therapy, average self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and HbA1C were assessed. CIDS, socioeconomic-standard, MINI-KID depression and HRQoL scales were applied.

Results

Children with T1D on CSII have significantly higher HRQoL and CIDS than those on MDI (P < 0.001). A significant negative correlation is found between HRQoL and insulin daily dose(P = 0.022), HbA1C(P < 0.001), average SMBG(P < 0.001) and MINI-KID depression scale(P < 0.001). A significant positive correlation is found between HRQoL and CIDS(P < 0.001) and health care, home sanitation, family possessions and occupation socioeconomic scores(P = 0.033, P = 0.001, P < 0.001 and P = 0.006, respectively). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that HRQoL is most associated with MINI-KID depression scale (P = 0.004) and annual total cost(P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Children with T1D on CSII have significantly better HRQoL, CIDS and HbA1C with less depression than those on MDI.
Comparison of landing kinematics and kinetics between experienced and novice volleyball players during block and spike jumps
Authors: Garcia Sébastien , Delattre N. , Berton E. , Divrechy G. , Rao G.
Published: June 2022

Background

The practice of volleyball requires many jumps. During landing, anterior cruciate ligament injuries may occur with high-risk lower limb kinematics and kinetics. Differences in landing strategies between experienced and novice volleyball players have not been fully explored. The purpose of the study was to compare lower limb kinematics and kinetics in experienced and novice volleyball players when performing volleyball specific jumps.

Methods

A total of 30 healthy males, 15 experienced and 15 novice volleyball players, participated in the study. Participants performed block and spike jumps at a controlled jump height. Hip, knee and ankle joints angles at initial ground contact and ranges of motion in the sagittal plane, knee joint angles and moments in the frontal plane, vertical ground reaction force peak and loading rate were analyzed to investigate the expertise effect.

Results

Experienced volleyball players landed with larger ankle dorsiflexion range of motion compared to novices. For the spike jump, experienced players landed with larger ankle plantarflexion angles at initial contact and larger ankle dorsiflexion ranges of motion, and for the block jump, they landed with larger knee flexion ranges of motion. Experienced players jumped significantly higher than novices. No difference was found in vertical ground reaction force peaks and loading rates.

Conclusions

Although the experienced group jumped higher than the novice group, no difference was found in ground reaction force parameters. These findings highlight that the experience of volleyball players acquired during regular trainings and competitions may play an important role in landing kinematics and kinetics to reduce the injury risk.