bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exact solutions of the theory of elasticity for a clamped rectangle
Authors: Kovalenko Mikhail D , Menshova Irina V , Kerzhaev Alexander P , Yu Guangming
Published: February 2022

We present the formulas that describe the exact solutions of the boundary value problems in the theory of elasticity for a half-strip and a rectangle in which the horizontal sides are firmly clamped, while normal and tangential stresses are specified on the vertical ones. We consider only an even-symmetric deformation of the half-strip and the rectangle relative to the horizontal axis of symmetry as well as even-symmetric and odd-symmetric deformations relative to the vertical axis of symmetry for the rectangle. This paper is based on the previously obtained solutions for a free half-strip and a free rectangle.
An Examination of Education Professionals’ Beliefs About Causes of Autism and Their Perceptions of Practices
Authors: Fleury Veronica P. , Kemper Talya
Published: February 2022

The quantity and quality of research focused on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have grown over the past several decades. Ensuring that research findings are accessible and understood by education professionals is essential for improving outcomes for individuals with ASD. In this study, we evaluated education professionals’ knowledge about ASD, specifically (a) beliefs about causes of ASD, (b) their familiarity with evidence-based practices (EBPs) and non-EBPs, (c) the likelihood of using or recommending EBPs compared with non-EBPs, and (d) the extent to which source credibility influenced the likelihood of using or recommending different types of practices. Education professionals ( N = 62) completed a paper survey. Responses on a modified version of the Illness Perception Questionnaire–Revised (Moss-Morris et al., 2002) were used to evaluate participants’ beliefs regarding causal attributes of ASD. Educators were also asked to read texts describing four EBPs and four non-EBPs. The text presentation was based on a 2 × 2 within-subjects factorial design with practice status (EBP or non-EBP) and source credibility (credible or not credible) as the independent variables. After reading each text, participants reported on whether they were (a) familiar with the practice and (b) the extent to which they would use or recommend the practice. Results indicate that school personnel were highly confident that neurobiological factors were a causal attribute of ASD. In addition, respondents were more familiar with, and more likely to recommend or use, EBPs as compared with non-EBPs. Source credibility did not significantly affect participants’ likelihood of using or recommending practices.
SPINK5 is a Prognostic Biomarker Associated With the Progression and Prognosis of Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Identified by Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis
Authors: Liu Jian , Zhao Jing , Xu Jiaran , Sun Qing , Qin Xuemei , Chen Guohui , Gao Tianle , Bai Guangping , Guo Zhiqiang
Published: February 2022

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is one of the most common types of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and is the second most prevalent malignancy occurring in the head and neck or respiratory tract, with a high incidence and mortality rate. Survival is limited for patients with LSCC. To identify more biomarkers associated with the prognosis of patients with LSCC, using bioinformatics analysis, this study used The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) LSCC dataset and gene expression profiles of GSE59102 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Eighty-one differentially co-expressed genes were identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Next, 10 hub genes (PPL, KRT78, CRNN, PTK7, SCEL, AGRN, SPINK5, AIF1L, EMP1, and PPP1R3C) were screened from a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Based on survival analysis, SPINK5 was significantly correlated with survival time in LSCC patients. After verification in the TCGA and HPA databases, SPINK5 was selected as a prognostic biomarker. Finally, the GSEA results showed that downregulation of SPINK5 gene expression may promote tumorigenesis and the development of cancers by the “BASAL CELL CARCINOMA” pathway, and it has been implicated in disrupting DNA damage and repair pathways. Collectively, SPINK5 may serve as a potential prognostic biomarker in LSCC.
COVID-19 with Rapid Progression to Hypoxemia Likely due to Imbalance between Ventilation and Blood Flow: A Case Report
Authors: Koriyama Nobuyuki , Moriuchi Akihiro , Higashi Kensaku , Kataoka Tetsuro , Arimizu Takuro , Takaguchi Go , Matsuoka Hideki , Otsuka Maki
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

In COVID-19 pneumonia, cases of severe hypoxemia in the early stage and cases of sudden deterioration in respiratory status due to silent hypoxia leading to death, have been reported.

CASE SUMMARY

A 70-year-old Japanese man with essential hypertension, dyslipidemia, chronic kidney disease and emphysema was hospitalized with the novel coronavirus disease. He had hypoxemia that was disproportionate to the severity of pneumonia indicated by computed tomography (CT), along with coagulation abnormalities. We speculated that there was a high possibility that he had developed ventilation and blood flow imbalance due to pulmonary intravascular coagulopathy (PIC) or hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV). In this case, early, short-term combination therapy with remdesivir, nafamostat mesylate and low-dose dexamethasone (Dex) was successful.

CONCLUSION

In COVID-19 patients with multiple comorbidities who have hypoxemia and coagulation abnormalities that are disproportionate to the severity of pneumonia on CT, it is important to commence antiviral and anticoagulant therapy as soon as possible, followed by use of a low dose of Dex.
Differentiating Between Conceptual and Theory Articles: Focus, Goals, and Approaches
Authors: Rocco Tonette S. , Plakhotnik Maria S. , Silberman Dave
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this article is to promote conceptual and theoretical scholarship in human resource development by providing insights and guidance on differences between conceptual and theory articles and when and how to create such scholarship. First, we discuss the role of Human Resource Development Review and conceptual and theory articles in assisting human resource development in developing into a profession and expanding the field. Then, we determine that conceptual and theory articles are non-empirical works that differ from other non-empirical types of articles and from each other. Finally, we describe distinctions between conceptual and theory articles by clarifying their focus and goals and approaches to writing them. We illustrate these distinctions with examples of articles published in Human Resource Development Review. The article concludes with a discussion and implications for the field, the journal editors, and researchers.
‘XX’–Sacroplasty: A Novel Technique for Management of “H-Type” Sacral Insufficiency Fractures
Authors: Lotan Raphael , Hershkovich Oded , Bronstein Yigal , Finkelstein Joel
Published: February 2022

Objective

Examine the feasibility, safety, and results of a novel sacral percutaneous injection technique (“XX”) addressing both the vertical and horizontal aspects of sacral insufficiency fractures (SIF).

Methods

Prospective cohort study. Eight consecutive SIF patients with immobility and pain investigated using CT and nuclear imaging confirmed “H"-type fracture. Demographics, pain level, and ambulation status were recorded. The long-term quality of life was evaluated using the ODI questionnaire and pain VAS scores. Sacroplasty procedures in prone positioning using fluoroscopy were used to insert 2 bone trochars through the S1 pedicles and 2 trochars through the sacral ale aiming toward the SIJ, thus forming 2 “X” trochar formations. Balloon kyphoplasty was done through the trocars, and PMM was injected. Postoperative ambulation and VAS were recorded.

Results

Average age was 81.5 years (±3.4 years). The time from presenting symptoms to hospital admission was 2 days to 4 months. All patients were significantly limited with ambulation. None had a neurologic compromise. Sacroplasty was performed with 2 cases that required additional lumbar kyphoplasty. The mean operative time was 54 min (±14). The average exposure was 19 mGy (±12 mGy). Two patients had cement leaks. CT and X-rays revealed good cement filling of the fractures sacral alae and body of S1. The average postoperative hospitalization was 10 days. All patients reported postoperatively pain relief immediately and were able to walk better. Follow-up time was 17 ± 12 months. Follow-up VAS was 2.7 (±2) and ODI was 57.3% (±21%).

Conclusion

“XX” technique showed good outcomes for patients with higher complexity SIF, using the same principles as for lumbar VPL/KPL, and was found to be safe and effective.
Adult Experiences with Hospitalization in Alberta, Canada During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kemp Kyle A , Fairie Paul , Steele Brian J , Santana Maria J
Published: February 2022

Little is known about the experiences of those hospitalized during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Our aims were to (a) report on the experiences, (b) compare with historical results, and (c) assess for potential monthly differences of patients hospitalized in the early months of the COVID-19 across Alberta. A random sample of adults was surveyed within 6 weeks of discharge from 93 hospitals, using a modified version of the Canadian Patient Experiences Survey – Inpatient Care (CPES-IC). Discharges from April to September 2020 comprised the “during COVID-19 pandemic” cohort, while April to September 2019 formed the historical one. Results were reported as percent in “top box”, indicative of the most positive answer choice. Odds of reporting a “top box” response were calculated while controlling for demographic and clinical features. In total, 23,412 surveys (11,344 during COVID-19, 12,068 historical) were obtained. Those hospitalized during COVID-19 had higher odds of “top box” ratings on 17 of 39 questions examined, and lower odds on 2 questions (information about the admission process, inclusion of family/friends in care decisions). The remaining 20 questions showed no difference between the 2 cohorts. Our results indicate that respondents hospitalized during the early months of the pandemic had experiences that were largely better or comparable to pre-pandemic. This speaks to the dedication and resilience of staff who provided care during challenging circumstances. Our findings may assist in mitigating fears among those who are hesitant to seek medical care during future pandemics or public health emergencies, including subsequent waves of COVID-19.
Managing service hubs in Miami and Osaka: Between capacious commons and meagre street-level bureaucracies
Authors: DeVerteuil Geoffrey , Marr Matthew D. , Kiener Johannes
Published: February 2022

As key sites of governance and poverty management, service hubs are conspicuous inner-city clusters of voluntary sector organizations that serve vulnerable urban populations, including people grappling with homelessness, substance abusers and mental illness. In this paper, we frame service hubs as potentially embodying capacious commons on the one hand, and meagre street-level bureaucracies on the other, reconstituting Lipsky’s individual focus to embrace the agency level. We use a comparative case study approach, focussing on two service hubs – Kamagasaki in Osaka and Overtown in Miami – to show how organizations in each combined, in various ways, the two logics in practice. The results suggest that service hubs acted more as ‘managed commons’, but with some tendencies towards street-level bureaucracy. This conversation between the commons and street-level bureaucracies, and its comparative application to the voluntary sector within service hubs, serve as our primary conceptual and empirical contributions, respectively. We conclude by considering how the two logics overlapped and created hybridized models of poverty management.
Flexing in the Gig Economy Ripple Effect
Authors: Chakraborty Rituparna , Rajan Satish , Bhatwalkar Shailesh , Agarwal Ayushi
Published: February 2022

The entire gig ecosystem is pioneering the evolution of a workforce based on a simplistic business model of Flexing; of flexible talent or freelancers. Talent and valued skills are made available on free will by the service provider for a task specified by the service seeker. The sentiment of ‘being your own boss’ plays a crucial role in such an economy. The advent of digital technology has not only multiplied its outreach potential but also carved a way for the emergence of growth opportunities across businesses. However, ensuring the sustainability and security of employment is a challenge. The dexterity of gig workers is to be channelised for a secure future for the informal workforce, which is occurring on an incremental basis with small steps in all major industries, shaping the future trends of workforce formalisation. The recomposition of the workforce is underway with government interventions to provide social security. In this article, we aim to furnish insights on the need for formalisation and its impact on India Inc. We focus on areas like employment of women in the formal sector, the role of new-age start-ups, the implications of newly formed labour codes, the point of view of unions and others that are part of this ecosystem. We explore the potential upgrades on policy changes and industry-specific insights on the gig world covering all the major industries. We propose that it is imperative to deliberate the policies required for ensuring the sustainability of this ecosystem.
Keratoprosthesis, silicone oil placement, and fluocinolone acetonide implant for treatment of uveitis-associated hypotony and keratopathy
Authors: Mosenia Arman , Sundararajan Miel , Stewart Jay M. , Schallhorn Julie M.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To describe a case series of combined Boston Type 1 Keratoprosthesis with pars plana vitrectomy, silicone oil placement, and fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal 0.59 mg implant (RETISERT®), and report its safety and efficacy in preventing phthisis bulbi in patients with uveitis-associated hypotony and concurrent corneal edema.

Findings

A retrospective review of patients with chronic uveitis, corneal decompensation and concurrent hypotony who underwent the combined approach described here between 2015 and 2020 was conducted. Three patients were treated using the combined approach. Post-operative recovery was unremarkable in all cases and the patients’ corneal condition remained stable on follow up. No patient developed phthisis, retroprosthetic membrane, or infectious endophthalmitis. Average intraocular pressure one year after intervention was 2.7 to 6.4 mmHg higher compared to a year prior.

Conclusions

The approach described is potentially safe and effective in preventing phthisis and membrane formation in uveitis-associated hypotony and keratopathy.
“H” is not for hydroxychloroquine—“H” is for heparin: lack of efficacy of hydroxychloroquine and the role of heparin in COVID-19—preliminary data of a prospective and interventional study from Brazil
Authors: de Oliveira Costa Renata , Nascimento Joyce Santos , Reichert Cadiele Oliana , da Costa Adriana Pedroso Augusto , dos Santos Maria Aparecida Pedrosa , Soares Alberto Macedo , Tomé Carlos Eduardo Mendonça , Hayden Ricardo Leite , dos Santos Cassiano Waldanski , Barreiro Bruno , El-Khatib Amer Abdul Basset , de Pádua Covas Lage Luís Alberto , Pereira Juliana , Benetti Mônica Mazzurana
Published: February 2022

Background

COVID-19 pandemic is the major public health problem in the world actually. It’s associated with high morbidity and mortality. To date, no therapeutic measure has a curative potential. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a drug with immunomodulatory properties that has demonstrated antiviral efficacy in in vitro experiments, with conflicting results in in vivo studies.

Methods

A single-center, prospective and interventional study, that evaluates the impact on mortality of the HCQ use in 154 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 in a Brazilian public hospital. The study also aims to determine prognostic factors that predict mortality, ICU admission and endotracheal intubation in this population.

Results

154 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 confirmed by RT-PCR and hospitalized were included. There was a male predominance (87/154, 56.5%), median age 60 years and 88% (136/154) had comorbidities. Among these, 76% (117/154) were admitted to the ICU and 29.2% (45/154) experienced EOT. The OMR was 51.3% (79/154). There was no difference in mortality between patients treated with HCQ (N = 95) and non-HCQ (N = 59) (44.1% × 55.8%,p = 0.758). In univariate analysis, age ≥ 60 years (HR 3.62,p < 0.001), need for mechanical ventilation (HR 2.17,p = 0.001), ≥ 2 comorbidities (HR 1.83,p = 0.049), SAH (HR: 1.56,p = 0.054) were predictors of mortality, as well as no use of prophylactic or therapeutic heparin (HR 3.60,p = 0.02). Multivariate analysis identified admission to the ICU (HR 8.98,p = 0.002) and advanced age (HR 3.37,p < 0.01) as independent predictors of mortality, although, use of heparin (HR 0.25,p = 0.001) was independently associated with a favorable outcome.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the absence of a benefit associated with the use of HCQ in Brazilian patients hospitalized with COVID-19. However, prophylactic or therapeutic heparin was an independent predictor for reducing mortality in this population.
Iodine deficiency in pregnancy along a concentration gradient is associated with increased severity of preeclampsia in rural Eastern Cape, South Africa
Authors: Businge Charles Bitamazire , Longo-Mbenza Benjamin , Kengne Andre Pascal
Published: February 2022

Background

Preeclampsia is a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity in South Africa. Iodine deficiency in pregnancy, which is amenable to correction through iodine supplementation, has been reported to increase the risk of preeclampsia. However, the association of iodine nutrition status with preeclampsia in South Africa has not been studied.

Methods

We enrolled 51 randomly selected normotensive pregnant controls at term together with 51 consecutively selected cases of preeclampsia and 51 cases of severe preeclampsia/eclampsia, all in the third trimester, from Mthatha Regional and Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in the Eastern Cape Province. Urinary iodine concentration (UIC), serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (FT3), thyroxine (FT4) and thyroglobulin (Tg) levels were compared between cases and controls.

Results

The respective chronological and gestational ages at enrolment for normotensive, preeclampsia and severe preeclampsia/eclampsia participants were: age 23, 24 and 19 years (p = 0.001), and gestational age 38, 34, and 35 weeks (p < 0.001). The median gravidity was 1 for all three groups. The median UIC, FT4, FT3 revealed a decreasing and Tg a rising trend with the severity of preeclampsia (p < 0.05). TSH had a non-significant rising trend (p > 0.05). The respective median values for normotensive, preeclampsia and severe preeclampsia/eclampsia participants were UIC 217.1, 127.7, and 98.8 μg/L; FT4 14.2, 13.7, and 12. pmol/L; FT3 4.8, 4.4, and 4.0 pmol//L; Tg 19.4, 21.4, and 32. Nine microgram per liter; TSH 2.3, 2.3, and 2.5 mIU/L. UIC < 100 μg/L, Tg > 16 μg/L and FT4 < 11.3 pmol/L were independent predictors of preeclampsia/eclampsia syndrome.

Conclusion

Women with severe preeclampsia/eclampsia had significantly low UIC and high Tg, suggesting protracted inadequate iodine intake. Inadequate iodine intake during pregnancy severe enough to cause elevated Tg and FT4 deficiency was associated with an increased risk of severe preeclampsia/eclampsia.
Somatic mutations in collagens are associated with a distinct tumor environment and overall survival in gastric cancer
Authors: Brodsky Alexander S. , Khurana Jay , Guo Kevin S. , Wu Elizabeth Y. , Yang Dongfang , Siddique Ayesha S. , Wong Ian Y. , Gamsiz Uzun Ece D. , Resnick Murray B.
Published: February 2022

Background

Gastric cancer is a heterogeneous disease with poorly understood genetic and microenvironmental factors. Mutations in collagen genes are associated with genetic diseases that compromise tissue integrity, but their role in tumor progression has not been extensively reported. Aberrant collagen expression has been long associated with malignant tumor growth, invasion, chemoresistance, and patient outcomes. We hypothesized that somatic mutations in collagens could functionally alter the tumor extracellular matrix.

Methods

We used publicly available datasets including The Tumor Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to interrogate somatic mutations in collagens in stomach adenocarcinomas. To demonstrate that collagens were significantly mutated above background mutation rates, we used a moderated Kolmogorov-Smirnov test along with combination analysis with a bootstrap approach to define the background accounting for mutation rates. Association between mutations and clinicopathological features was evaluated by Fisher or chi-squared tests. Association with overall survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier and the Cox-Proportional Hazards Model. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis was used to interrogate pathways. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization tested expression of COL7A1 in stomach tumors.

Results

In stomach adenocarcinomas, we identified individual collagen genes and sets of collagen genes harboring somatic mutations at a high frequency compared to background in both microsatellite stable, and microsatellite instable tumors in TCGA. Many of the missense mutations resemble the same types of loss of function mutations in collagenopathies that disrupt tissue formation and destabilize cells providing guidance to interpret the somatic mutations. We identified combinations of somatic mutations in collagens associated with overall survival, with a distinctive tumor microenvironment marked by lower matrisome expression and immune cell signatures. Truncation mutations were strongly associated with improved outcomes suggesting that loss of expression of secreted collagens impact tumor progression and treatment response. Germline collagenopathy variants guided interpretation of impactful somatic mutations on tumors.

Conclusions

These observations highlight that many collagens, expressed in non-physiologically relevant conditions in tumors, harbor impactful somatic mutations in tumors, suggesting new approaches for classification and therapy development in stomach cancer. In sum, these findings demonstrate how classification of tumors by collagen mutations identified strong links between specific genotypes and the tumor environment.
Associations among political voting preference, high-risk health status, and preventative behaviors for COVID-19
Authors: Porteny Thalia , Corlin Laura , Allen Jennifer D. , Monahan Kyle , Acevedo Andrea , Stopka Thomas J. , Levine Peter , Ladin Keren
Published: February 2022

Background

We investigate the relationships among political preferences, risk for COVID-19 complications, and complying with preventative behaviors, such as social distancing, quarantine, and vaccination, as they remain incompletely understood. Since those with underlying health conditions have the highest mortality risk, prevention strategies targeting them and their caretakers effectively can save lives. Understanding caretakers’ adherence is also crucial as their behavior affects the probability of transmission and quality of care, but is understudied. Examining the degree to which adherence to prevention measures within these populations is affected by their health status vs. voting preference, a key predictor of preventative behavior in the U. S, is imperative to improve targeted public health messaging. Knowledge of these associations could inform targeted COVID-19 campaigns to improve adherence for those at risk for severe consequences.

Methods

We conducted a nationally-representative online survey of U.S. adults between May–June 2020 assessing: 1) attempts to socially-distance; 2) willingness/ability to self-quarantine; and 3) intention of COVID-19 vaccination. We estimated the relationships between 1) political preferences 2) underlying health status, and 3) being a caretaker to someone with high-risk conditions and each dependent variable. Sensitivity analyses examined the associations between political preference and dependent variables among participants with high-risk conditions and/or obesity.

Results

Among 908 participants, 75.2% engaged in social-distancing, 94.4% were willing/able to self-quarantine, and 60.1% intended to get vaccinated. Compared to participants intending to vote for Biden, participants who intended to vote for Trump were significantly less likely to have tried to socially-distance, self-quarantine, or intend to be vaccinated. We observed the same trends in analyses restricted to participants with underlying health conditions and their caretakers Underlying health status was independently associated with social distancing among individuals with obesity and another high-risk condition, but not other outcomes.

Conclusion

Engagement in preventative behavior is associated with political voting preference and not individual risk of severe COVID-19 or being a caretaker of a high-risk individual. Community based strategies and public health messaging should be tailored to individuals based on political preferences especially for those with obesity and other high-risk conditions. Efforts must be accompanied by broader public policy.
COVID-19 hot-spot strategy: a special innovation in pandemic response, Oyo State Nigeria
Authors: Bassey Enya Bassey , Kazadi Mulomb Walter , Ahmed Khedr Ahmed Mohamed , Mpazanje Rex Gadama , Onyibe Rosemary Ifeoma , Kolude Olufunmilola Olawumi , Marcus Oluwadare , Alawale Oluwabukola , Ogunlaja Omotunde , Oluwatobi Adeoluwa Iyanda , Adedamola Ayodeji Tella , Olayiwola Suliat Olanike , Ladipo Taiwo Olabode
Published: February 2022

Background

COVID-19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has evolved into a pandemic. Oyo state, Nigeria with a population of 9,233,010, recorded the first case of COVID-19 on the 12th of March 2020 and it is among the highest contributing States to the nation’s burden of the disease with 3267 confirmed cases, including 40 deaths as of date, with an overall test positivity rate of 18.1%, far higher compared to the National average within a limited period from recorded index case. A ‘Hotspot strategy’ was designed by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 and Oyo State was selected to implement the strategy through upscaling case detection, isolation and treatment, quarantine of contacts and strengthening public health and social measures.

Methods

We used a descriptive cross-sectional survey of 3 identified hotspot Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Oyo State using mobile phones under Surveillance, Outbreak Response Management and Analysis System (SORMAS) platform to collect data from October to December 2020. Interventions comprised of enhanced active case search, contact line listing, contact investigation, and contact follow-up as well as to facilitate data collection and entry, community sensitization and management of alert/rumors. Baseline information and that after the 3-month period was then analyzed with the descriptive statistics presented.

Results

The implementation of the hotspot strategy was shown to have had a major impact in Irepo LGA, where more than a 100% increase in samples tested, confirmed cases, contacts listed and contacts followed were recorded, while there were no significance changes noticed in Ibadan North and Lagelu LGAs. However, test positivity rates among contacts were found to be quite high in Ibadan North LGA (48%), compared to the other two, even though Lagelu LGA (5.7%) tested more contacts than Ibadan North.

Conclusion

The observed increase in number of samples tested, cases confirmed, contact listed and investigated as well as test positivity rate in the 3 LGAs after the intervention implies that the hotspot strategy can be said to have contributed positively to the sensitivity of COVID-19 surveillance in Oyo State, Nigeria. This implies that strengthening this ‘hotspot strategy’ may be a key area of focus to improve COVID-19 surveillance sensitivity and response and in turn may help in breaking the transmission and bringing the pandemic to a halt.
Local myalgia compared to myofascial pain with referral according to the DC/TMD: Axis I and II results
Authors: Winocur-Arias Orit , Friedman-Rubin Pessia , Abu Ras Kian , Lockerman Larry , Emodi-Perlman Alona , Greenbaum Tzvika , Reiter Shoshana
Published: February 2022

Background

The Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) categorized TMD muscle disorders into 3 subgroups: local myalgia, myofascial pain with spreading and myofascial pain with referral. However, the rationale for such division into subgroups and the pathogenesis and prognosis of muscle-related TMD are still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to explore the differences between local myalgia and myofascial pain with referral by means of a biopsychosocial model based on the DC/TMD.

Methods

This retrospective study included all consecutive TMD patients who were diagnosed according to the DC/TMD in our institution between 2015 and 2018. The Axis I and II findings of patients diagnosed with local myalgia were compared to those of patients with myofascial pain with referral. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 255 patients (61 men and 194 women, mean age 37.8 ± 15.34 years) were enrolled into the study, 114 in the local myalgia group and 83 in the myofascial pain with referral group. The levels of depression and nonspecific physical symptoms, headache attributed to TMD (HAattrTMD), and characteristic pain intensity (CPI) were significantly higher in the latter group. The significant differences for depression and nonspecific physical symptoms persisted after excluding patients diagnosed with HAattrTMD, however, the levels of significance were lower (p = 0.006 compared to p = 0.033 for depression total score, and p = 0.001 compared to p = 0.046 for nonspecific physical symptoms total score). CPI levels, extent of disability, and pain duration were similar for both groups when excluding for HAattrTMD.

Conclusion

The current study findings highlight the importance of differentiating between subgroups of myalgia according to the DC/TMD. The diagnosis of myofascial pain with referral may point to a significant Axis II component.
A pilot study on development and feasibility of the ‘MyEducation: CABG application’ for patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
Authors: Noor Hanita Z. , Khatijah L. A. , Kamaruzzaman S. , Karuthan C. , Raja Mokhtar R. A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery tend to have persistent symptoms of anxiety and depression. Course of hospital stay post-CABG procedure has become increasingly shorter over the last few decades. This pilot study was conducted to develop and test feasibility of MyEducation: CABG application as a learning tool to reduce anxiety and depression levels among patients undergoing CABG Surgery.

Methods

This study was quasi-experimental in design. Forty-five patients scheduled for CABG surgery were recruited via consecutive sampling from a Tertiary Referral Centre at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. MyEducation:CABG application (Web-based education application) was administered among the intervention group (N = 23); while the control group (N = 22) underwent standard care. Web-based education application were implemented by nurses at admission and prior to discharge. Patients were assisted in terms of queries and concerns, upon which corresponding information and support was provided. Sociodemographic data were obtained from patients, prior to administration of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale which was used to measure levels of anxiety and depression. The educational application was used to obtain satisfaction rating among intervention group. These measures were administered upon admission, on discharge and one-month post-discharge.

Results

Mean anxiety and depression scores among the intervention group were lower compared to the control. This was significant for anxiety upon admission, on discharge and one-month post-discharge (p < 0.05). Reduced mean depression scores was only significant at one month post-discharge (p < 0.05). Intervention group were generally satisfied with design, content and usability of the application.

Conclusions

Utilisation of MyEducation: CABG application as an educational platform were associated with reduced anxiety and depression among CABG patients, which probably explains positive user satisfaction levels reported. Hence, the study recommends implementation of this application among larger sample as a way to support patient scheduled for CABG aside, with further possibility of preventing complications.
Factors influencing sustainability and scale-up of rural primary healthcare memory clinics: perspectives of clinic team members
Authors: Morgan Debra , Kosteniuk Julie , O’Connell Megan E. , Seitz Dallas , Elliot Valerie , Bayly Melanie , Chow Amanda Froehlich , Cameron Chelsie
Published: February 2022

Background

The aging of rural populations contributes to growing numbers of people with dementia in rural areas. Despite the key role of primary healthcare in rural settings there is limited research on effective models for dementia care, or evidence on sustaining and scaling them. The purpose of this study was to identify factors influencing sustainability and scale-up of rural primary care based memory clinics from the perspective of healthcare providers involved in their design and delivery.

Methods

Participants were members of four interdisciplinary rural memory clinic teams in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan. A qualitative cross-sectional and retrospective study design was conducted. Data were collected via 6 focus groups (n = 40) and 16 workgroup meetings held with teams over 1 year post-implementation (n = 100). An inductive thematic analysis was used to identify themes.

Results

Eleven themes were identified (five that influenced both sustainability and scale-up, three related to sustainability, and three related to scale-up), encompassing team, organizational, and intervention-based factors. Factors that influenced both sustainability and scale-up were positive outcomes for patients and families, access to well-developed clinic processes and tools, a confident clinic leader-champion, facilitation by local facilitators and the researchers, and organizational and leadership support. Study findings revealed the importance of particular factors in the rural context, including facilitation to support team activities, a proven ready-to-use model, continuity of team members, and mentoring.

Conclusions

Interdisciplinary models of dementia care are feasible in rural settings if the right conditions and supports are maintained. Team-based factors were key to sustaining and scaling the innovation.
Highly reliable creation of floxed alleles by electroporating single-cell embryos
Authors: Sentmanat Monica F. , White J. Michael , Kouranova Evguenia , Cui Xiaoxia
Published: February 2022

Background

Floxed (flanked by loxP) alleles are a crucial portion of conditional knockout mouse models. However, an efficient and reliable strategy to flox genomic regions of any desired size is still lacking.

Results

Here, we demonstrate that the method combining electroporation of fertilized eggs with gRNA/Cas9 complexes and single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODNs), assessing phasing of loxP insertions in founders using an in vitro Cre assay and an optional, highly specific and efficient second-round targeting ensures the generation of floxed F1 animals in roughly five months for a wide range of sequence lengths (448 bp to 160 kb reported here).

Conclusions

Floxed alleles can be reliably obtained in a predictable timeline using the improved method of electroporation of two gRNA/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein particles (RNPs) and two ssODNs.
A versatile contribution of both aminopeptidases N and ABC transporters to Bt Cry1Ac toxicity in the diamondback moth
Authors: Sun Dan , Zhu Liuhong , Guo Le , Wang Shaoli , Wu Qingjun , Crickmore Neil , Zhou Xuguo , Bravo Alejandra , Soberón Mario , Guo Zhaojiang , Zhang Youjun
Published: February 2022

Background

Biopesticides and transgenic crops based on Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxins are extensively used to control insect pests, but the rapid evolution of insect resistance seriously threatens their effectiveness. Bt resistance is often polygenic and complex. Mutations that confer resistance occur in midgut proteins that act as cell surface receptors for the toxin, and it is thought they facilitate its assembly as a membrane-damaging pore. However, the mechanistic details of the action of Bt toxins remain controversial.

Results

We have examined the contribution of two paralogous ABC transporters and two aminopeptidases N to Bt Cry1Ac toxicity in the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, using CRISPR/Cas9 to generate a series of homozygous polygenic knockout strains. A double-gene knockout strain, in which the two paralogous ABC transporters ABCC2 and ABCC3 were deleted, exhibited 4482-fold resistance to Cry1A toxin, significantly greater than that previously reported for single-gene knockouts and confirming the mutual functional redundancy of these ABC transporters in acting as toxin receptors in P. xylostella. A double-gene knockout strain in which APN1 and APN3a were deleted exhibited 1425-fold resistance to Cry1Ac toxin, providing the most direct evidence to date for these APN proteins acting as Cry1Ac toxin receptors, while also indicating their functional redundancy. Genetic crosses of the two double-gene knockouts yielded a hybrid strain in which all four receptor genes were deleted and this resulted in a > 34,000-fold resistance, indicating that while both types of receptor need to be present for the toxin to be fully effective, there is a level of functional redundancy between them. The highly resistant quadruple knockout strain was less fit than wild-type moths, but no fitness cost was detected in the double knockout strains.

Conclusion

Our results provide direct evidence that APN1 and APN3a are important for Cry1Ac toxicity. They support our overarching hypothesis of a versatile mode of action of Bt toxins, which can compensate for the absence of individual receptors, and are consistent with an interplay among diverse midgut receptors in the toxins’ mechanism of action in a super pest.
Isolated complete caudate lobectomy with Glissonean pedicle isolation using Takasaki’s technique and right–left approach: preliminary experience from two case reports
Authors: Nguyen Ham Hoi , Nguyen Thanh Khiem , Le Van Duy , Luong Tuan Hiep , Dang Kim Khue , Nguyen Vu Quang , Trinh Hong Son
Published: February 2022

Background

Tumors located in the caudate lobe may be primary tumor or metastases from other sites. Isolated caudate lobectomy (ICL) is a challenging procedure due to its complex structure and location. The access route to the caudate lobe has an important role in the success of the operation.

Methods

Based on the characteristics of the segment I location, which is the part of the liver located in front of the vena cava, below the hepatic veins, and cranial to the hilar plate, our approach aims to isolate the entire caudate lobe from these anatomical structures with the following steps: dissecting the caudate lobe from the hilar plate and isolating the caudate lobe from the IVC and from the hepatic veins along with parenchymal resection.

Results

We report two successful cases with the Glissonean pedicle transection method described by Takasaki and the combined right- and left-side approach: a 63-year-old female patient with a 46-mm-in-diameter HCC tumor and a 39-year-old female patient with a 45-mm lesion and the pathological result was focal nodular hyperplasia.

Conclusions

We found this to be a safe and effective approach, which can be applied to all cases of benign tumors or in the case of malignant tumors located entirely in the caudate lobe when extended hepatic resection is not possible due to poor liver function or small remnant liver volume.
Association between gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) history and clinical outcomes in in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles
Authors: Cai Xinyu , Zhang Mei , Huang Chenyang , Jiang Yue , Zhou Jidong , Xu Manlin , Yan Guijun , Sun Haixiang , Kong Na
Published: February 2022

Background

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) usually affects young women of childbearing age. After treatment for GTD, 86% of women wish to achieve pregnancy. On account of the impacts of GTD and treatments as well as patient anxiety, large numbers of couples turn to assisted reproductive technology (ART), especially in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI). But few studies have investigated whether a history of GTD affects the outcomes of IVF/ICSI in secondary infertile patients and how it occurs. We investigate whether a history of GTD affects the IVF/ICSI outcomes and the live birth rates in women with secondary infertility.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study enrolled 176 women with secondary infertility who underwent IVF/ICSI treatment at the reproductive medical center of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2020. Participants were divided into the GTD group (44 women with GTD history) and control group (132 women without GTD history matched from 8318 secondary infertile women). The control group and the study group were matched at a ratio of 3:1 according to patient age, infertility duration, number of cycles and body mass index (BMI). We assessed retrieved oocytes and high-grade embryos, biochemical pregnancy, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, gestational age at delivery, delivery mode and live birth rates.

Result(s)

We found a significantly reduced live-birth rate (34.1% vs 66.7%) associated with IVF/ICSI cycles in patients with a GTD history compared to those without a GTD history. The biochemical pregnancy and miscarriage rates of the GTD group were slightly higher than those of the control group. In addition, there was a difference in gestational age at delivery between the GTD and control groups (p < 0.001) but no differences in the mode of delivery (p = 0.267). Furthermore, the number of abandoned embryos in the GTD group was greater than that in the control group (p = 0.018), and the number of good-quality embryos was less than that in the control group (p = 0.019). The endometrial thickness was thinner (p < 0.001) in the GTD group. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed abnormal endometrial receptivity in the GTD group.

Conclusion(s)

The GTD history of patients undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles had an impact on the live-birth rate and gestational age at delivery, which might result from the thinner endometrium and abnormal endometrial receptivity before embryo transfer.
From GWAS to drug screening: repurposing antipsychotics for glioblastoma
Authors: Lin Wei-Zhi , Liu Yen-Chun , Lee Meng-Chang , Tang Chi-Tun , Wu Gwo-Jang , Chang Yu-Tien , Chu Chi-Ming , Shiau Chia-Yang
Published: February 2022

Background

Glioblastoma is currently an incurable cancer. Genome-wide association studies have demonstrated that 41 genetic variants are associated with glioblastoma and may provide an option for drug development.

Methods

We investigated FDA-approved antipsychotics for their potential treatment of glioblastoma based on genome-wide association studies data using a ‘pathway/gene-set analysis’ approach.

Results

The in-silico screening led to the discovery of 12 candidate drugs. DepMap portal revealed that 42 glioma cell lines show higher sensitivities to 12 candidate drugs than to Temozolomide, the current standard treatment for glioblastoma.

Conclusion

In particular, cell lines showed significantly higher sensitivities to Norcyclobenzaprine and Protriptyline which were predicted to bind targets to disrupt a certain molecular function such as DNA repair, response to hormones, or DNA-templated transcription, and may lead to an effect on survival-related pathways including cell cycle arrest, response to ER stress, glucose transport, and regulation of autophagy. However, it is recommended that their mechanism of action and efficacy are further determined.
A randomized clinical control study on the efficacy of three-dimensional upper limb robotic exoskeleton training in chronic stroke
Authors: Frisoli Antonio , Barsotti Michele , Sotgiu Edoardo , Lamola Giuseppe , Procopio Caterina , Chisari Carmelo
Published: February 2022

Background

Although robotics assisted rehabilitation has proven to be effective in stroke rehabilitation, a limited functional improvements in Activities of Daily Life has been also observed after the administration of robotic training. To this aim in this study we compare the efficacy in terms of both clinical and functional outcomes of a robotic training performed with a multi-joint functional exoskeleton in goal-oriented exercises compared to a conventional physical therapy program, equally matched in terms of intensity and time. As a secondary goal of the study, it was assessed the capability of kinesiologic measurements—extracted by the exoskeleton robotic system—of predicting the rehabilitation outcomes using a set of robotic biomarkers collected at the baseline.

Methods

A parallel-group randomized clinical trial was conducted within a group of 26 chronic post-stroke patients. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups receiving robotic or manual therapy. The primary outcome was the change in score on the upper extremity section of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) scale. As secondary outcome a specifically designed bimanual functional scale, Bimanual Activity Test (BAT), was used for upper limb functional evaluation. Two robotic performance indices were extracted with the purpose of monitoring the recovery process and investigating the interrelationship between pre-treatment robotic biomarkers and post-treatment clinical improvement in the robotic group.

Results

A significant clinical and functional improvements in both groups (p < 0.01) was reported. More in detail a significantly higher improvement of the robotic group was observed in the proximal portion of the FMA (p < 0.05) and in the reduction of time needed for accomplishing the tasks of the BAT (p < 0.01). The multilinear-regression analysis pointed out a significant correlation between robotic biomarkers at the baseline and change in FMA score (R2 = 0.91, p < 0.05), suggesting their potential ability of predicting clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Exoskeleton-based robotic upper limb treatment might lead to better functional outcomes, if compared to manual physical therapy. The extracted robotic performance could represent predictive indices of the recovery of the upper limb. These results are promising for their potential exploitation in implementing personalized robotic therapy.

Clinical Trial Registrationclinicaltrials.gov, NCT03319992 Unique Protocol ID: RH-UL-LEXOS-10. Registered 20.10.2017,https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03319992