bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Sexually Transmitted Infections surveillance data: incidence drop or artefact?
Authors: Sentís Alexis , Prats-Uribe Albert , López-Corbeto Evelin , Montoro-Fernandez Marcos , Nomah Daniel Kwakye , de Olalla Patrícia Garcia , Mercuriali Lilas , Borrell Núria , Guadalupe-Fernández Víctor , Reyes-Urueña Juliana , Casabona Jordi ,   Catalan HIV and STI Surveillance Group, Sentís A. , López E. , Gonzalez V. , Lugo R. , Bonamusa M. P. , Reyes J. , Casabona J. , de Olalla P. Garcia , Mercuriali Lilas , Clos R. , Rodriguez R. , Masdeu M. , Ros M. , Simon P. , Avellaneda I. , Artigas A. , Rius C. , Company M. , Danés M. , Camps N. , Vileu R. M. , Ferrús G. , Borrell N. , Minguell S. , Ferràs J. , Parrón I. , Mòdol I. , Martinez A. , Godoy P. , Tarrès M. A. , Pérez J. , Boldú M. , Barrabeig I. , Donate E. , Clotet L. , Sala M. R. , Carol M. , Guadalupe-Fernández V. , Mendioroz J. , Ciruela P. , Carmona G. , Mansilla R. , Martínez J. L. , Hernández S.
Published: September 2021

Background

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were increasing in Europe, and Spain and Catalonia were not an exception. Catalonia has been one of the regions with the highest number of COVID-19 confirmed cases in Spain. The objective of this study was to estimate the magnitude of the decline, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in the number of STI confirmed cases in Catalonia during the lockdown and de-escalation phases.

Methods

Interrupted time series analysis was performed to estimate the magnitude of decline in the number of STI reported confirmed cases - chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and lymphogranuloma venereum- in Catalonia since lockdown with historical data, from March 13th to August 1st 2020, comparing the observed with the expected values.

Results

We found that since the start of COVID-19 pandemic the number of STI reported cases was 51% less than expected, reaching an average of 56% during lockdown (50% and 45% during de-escalation and new normality) with a maximum decrease of 72% for chlamydia and minimum of 22% for syphilis. Our results indicate that fewer STIs were reported in females, people living in more deprived areas, people with no previous STI episodes during the last three years, and in the HIV negative.

Conclusions

The STI notification sharp decline was maintained almost five months after lockdown started, well into the new normality. This fact can hardly be explained without significant underdiagnosis and underreporting. There is an urgent need to strengthen STI/HIV diagnostic programs and services, as well as surveillance, as the pandemic could be concealing the real size of the already described re-emergence of STIs in most of the European countries.
Concomitant bilateral mandibular cemento-ossifying fibroma and cementoblastoma: case report of an extremely rare occurrence
Authors: Qureshi Madiha Bilal , Tariq Muhammad Usman , Abdul-Ghafar Jamshid , Raza Muhammad , Din Nasir Ud
Published: September 2021

Background

Cemento-ossifying fibroma (COF) and cementoblastoma (CB) are rare benign odontogenic tumors with a predilection for the mandible. Cemento-ossifying fibroma is a fibro-osseous lesion that originates in the tooth bearing areas of jaw and shows cementum-like tissue in a fibrotic stroma. Cementoblastoma is classically related to roots of teeth with the presence of calcified cementum-like material. To date, only a single case of concomitant unilateral COF and CB has been reported in the literature.

Case presentation

We present an unusual case of a 37-year-old female who presented with two discrete bilateral swellings in the right and left mandible for 10 years. The larger tumor involved the left posterior mandible with extension anteriorly to the left and right anterior mandibles, and the smaller tumor was present in right posterior mandible. Radiology revealed two distinct lesions involving both sides of mandible. Histopathological examination showed characteristic features of cemento-ossifying fibroma in sections of the larger tumor and cementoblastoma in sections of smaller tumor.

Conclusion

This case shows the very unique bilateral co-existence of COF and CB, the second case reported in literature to date.
Experiences of bereaved family caregivers with shared decision making in palliative cancer treatment: a qualitative interview study
Authors: van Oosterhout Sanne P. C. , Ermers Daisy J. M. , Ploos van Amstel Floor K. , van Herpen Carla M. L. , Schoon Yvonne , Perry Marieke , van Geel Maartje , Kuip Evelien J. M. , Engels Yvonne
Published: September 2021

Background

Patients with incurable cancer face complex medical decisions. Their family caregivers play a prominent role in shared decision making processes, but we lack insights into their experiences. In this study, we explored how bereaved family caregivers experienced the shared decision making process.

Methods

We performed a qualitative interview study with in-depth interviews analysed with inductive content analysis. We used a purposive sample of bereaved family caregivers (n = 16) of patients with cancer treated in a tertiary university hospital in the Netherlands.

Results

Four themes were identified: 1. scenarios of decision making, 2. future death of the patient 3. factors influencing choices when making a treatment decision, and 4. preconditions for the decision making process. Most family caregivers deferred decisions to the patient or physician. Talking about the patient’s future death was not preferred by all family caregivers. All family caregivers reported life prolongation as a significant motivator for treatment, while the quality of life was rarely mentioned. A respectful relationship, close involvement, and open communication with healthcare professionals in the palliative setting were valued by many interviewees. Family caregivers’ experiences and needs seemed to be overlooked during medical encounters.

Conclusions

Family caregivers of deceased patients with cancer mentioned life prolongation, and not quality of life, as the most important treatment aim. They highly valued interactions with the medical oncologist and being involved in the conversations. We advise medical oncologists to take more effort to involve the family caregiver, and more explicitly address quality of life in the consultations.
Urban bat pups take after their mothers and are bolder and faster learners than rural pups
Authors: Harten Lee , Gonceer Nesim , Handel Michal , Dash Orit , Fokidis H. Bobby , Yovel Yossi
Published: September 2021

Background

Urbanization is rapidly changing our planet and animals that live in urban environments must quickly adjust their behavior. One of the most prevalent behavioral characteristics of urban dwelling animals is an increased level of risk-taking. Here, we aimed to reveal how urban fruitbats become risk-takers, and how they differ behaviorally from rural bats, studying both genetic and non-genetic factors that might play a role in the process. We assessed the personality of newborn pups from both rural and urban colonies before they acquired experience outdoors, examining risk-taking, exploration, and learning rates.

Results

Urban pups exhibited significantly higher risk-taking levels, they were faster learners, but less exploratory than their rural counterparts. A cross-fostering experiment revealed that pups were more similar to their adoptive mothers, thus suggesting a non-genetic mechanism and pointing towards a maternal effect. We moreover found that lactating urban mothers have higher cortisol levels in their milk, which could potentially explain the transmission of some personality traits from mother to pup.

Conclusions

Young bats seem to acquire environment suitable traits via post-birth non-genetic maternal effects. We offer a potential mechanism for how urban pups can acquire urban-suitable behavioral traits through hormonal transfer from their mothers.
Determination of production losses related to lumpy skin disease among cattle in Turkey and analysis using SEIR epidemic model
Authors: Mat Burak , Arikan Mehmet Saltuk , Akin Ahmet Cumhur , Çevrimli Mustafa Bahadır , Yonar Harun , Tekindal Mustafa Agah
Published: September 2021

Background

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is an infectious disease induced by the Capripoxvirus, causing epidemics in Turkey and several countries worldwide and inducing significant economic losses. Although this disease occurs in Turkish cattle every year, it is a notifiable disease. In this study, LSD in Turkey was modelled using the Susceptible, Exposed, Infectious, and Recovered (SEIR) epidemiological model, and production losses were estimated with predictions of the course of the disease. The animal population was categorized into four groups: Susceptible, Exposed, Infectious, and Recovered, and model parameters were obtained. The SEIR model was formulated with an outbreak calculator simulator applied for demonstration purposes.

Results

Production losses caused by the LSD epidemic and the SEIR model’s predictions on the disease’s course were evaluated. Although 1282 cases were identified in Turkey during the study period, the prevalence of LSD was calculated as 4.51%, and the mortality rate was 1.09%. The relationship between the disease duration and incubation period was emphasized in the simulated SEIR model to understand the dynamics of LSD. Early detection of the disease during the incubation period significantly affected the peak time of the disease. According to the model, if the disease was detected during the incubation period, the sick animal's time could transmit the disease (Tinf) was calculated as 2.66 days. Production loss from LSD infection was estimated at US $ 886.34 for dairy cattle and the US $ 1,066.61 for beef cattle per animal.

Conclusion

Detection of LSD infection during the incubation period changes the course of the disease and may reduce the resulting economic loss.
Factors associated with seasonal influenza and HPV vaccination uptake among different ethnic groups in Arab and Jewish society in Israel
Authors: Shahbari Nour Abed Elhadi , Gesser-Edelsburg Anat , Davidovitch Nadav , Brammli-Greenberg Shuli , Grifat Rami , Mesch Gustavo S.
Published: September 2021

Background

Parents in the Arab population of Israel are known to be “pro-vaccination” and vaccinate their children at higher rates than the Jewish population, specifically against human papilloma virus (HPV) and seasonal influenza.

Objectives

This study seeks to identify and compare variables associated with mothers’ uptake of two vaccinations, influenza and HPV, among different subgroups in Arab and Jewish society in Israel.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of the entire spectrum of the Israeli population was conducted using a stratified sample of Jewish mothers (n = 159) and Arab mothers (n = 534) from different subgroups: Muslim, Christian, Druse and Northern Bedouins. From March 30, 2019 through October 20, 2019, questionnaires were distributed manually to eighth grade pupils (13–14 years old) who had younger siblings in second (7–8 years old) or third (8–9 years old) grades.

Results

Arab mothers exhibited a higher rate of uptake for both vaccinations (p < .0001, HPV – 90%; influenza – 62%) than Jewish mothers (p = 0.0014, HPV – 46%; influenza – 34%). Furthermore, results showed that HPV vaccination uptake is significantly higher than seasonal influenza vaccination uptake in both populations. Examination of the different ethnic subgroups revealed differences in vaccination uptake. For both vaccinations, the Northern Bedouins exhibited the highest uptake rate of all the Arab subgroups (74%), followed by the Druse (74%) and Muslim groups (60%). The Christian Arab group exhibited the lowest uptake rate (46%). Moreover, the uptake rate among secular Jewish mothers was lower than in any of the Arab groups (38%), though higher than among religious/traditional Jewish mothers, who exhibited the lowest uptake rate (26%). A comparison of the variables associated with mothers’ vaccination uptake revealed differences between the ethnic subgroups.

Moreover, the findings of the multiple logistic regression revealed the following to be the most significant factors in Arab mothers’ intake of both vaccinations: school-located vaccination and mothers’ perceived risk and perceived trust in the system and in the family physician. These variables are manifested differently in the different ethnic groups.

Conclusions

This research shows that all Arabs cannot be lumped together as one monolithic group in that they exhibit major differences according to religion, education and access to information. Ranking of variables associated with uptake of the two vaccines can provide decision-makers an empirical basis for tailoring appropriate and specific interventions to each subgroup to achieve the highest vaccine uptake rate possible. Media campaigns targeting the Arab population should be segmented to appeal to the various sub-groups according to their viewpoints, needs and health literacy.
Unequal availability of workplace policy for prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 across occupations and its relationship with personal protection behaviours: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Wang Kailu , Wong Eliza Lai Yi , Ho Kin Fai , Cheung Annie Wai Ling , Chan Emily Ying Yang , Wong Samuel Yeung Shan , Yeoh Eng Kiong
Published: September 2021

Background

The evolving pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a severe threat to public health, and the workplace presents high risks in terms of spreading the disease. Few studies have focused on the relationship between workplace policy and individual behaviours. This study aimed to identify inequalities of workplace policy across occupation groups, examine the relationship of workplace guidelines and measures with employees’ behaviours regarding COVID-19 prevention.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey using a structured questionnaire was conducted to gather employees’ access to workplace guidelines and measures as well as their personal protection behaviours. Statistical associations between these two factors in different occupations were examined using multiple ordinal logistic regressions.

Results

A total of 1048 valid responses across five occupational groups were analysed. Manual labourers reported lower availability of workplace guidelines and measures (76.9% vs. 89.9% for all, P = 0.003). Employees with available workplace guidelines and measures had higher compliance of hand hygiene, wearing masks, and social distancing, and this association was more significant among managers/administrators and manual labourers.

Conclusions

Protection of the quantity and quality of employment is important. Awareness about the disease and its prevention among employers and administrators should be promoted, and resources should be allocated to publish guidelines and implement measures in the workplace during the pandemic. Both work-from-home arrangement and other policies and responses for those who cannot work from home including guidelines encouraging the health behaviours, information transparency, and provision of infection control materials by employers should be established to reduce inequality. Manual labourers may require specific attention regarding accessibility of relevant information and availability of medical benefits and compensation for income loss due to the sickness, given their poorer experience of workplace policy and the nature of their work. Further studies are needed to test the effectiveness of specific workplace policies on COVID-19 prevention.
Barriers and facilitators to implementing community-based physical activity interventions: a qualitative systematic review
Authors: Cooper Jemima , Murphy Joey , Woods Catherine , Van Nassau Femke , McGrath Aisling , Callaghan David , Carroll Paula , Kelly Paul , Murphy Niamh , Murphy Marie ,   Irish Physical Activity Research Collaboration (I-PARC), Bauman Adrian , Cullen Benny , Brolly Colette , Bengoechea Enrique García , Mansergh Fiona , O’Donoghue Grainne , Lavelle James , Mutrie Nanette , Barry Niamh , Smyth Peter , Kielt Ronan , O’Brien Sarah , O’Shea Shirley , Muppavarapu Vydehi
Published: September 2021

Background

Over the past decade several physical activity (PA) interventions have been shown to be efficacious in a controlled research setting, however there is a continued lack of evidence for how to successfully implement these PA interventions in real-world settings such as the community. This review aims to explore the barriers and facilitators that affect the implementation of community-based PA interventions and make recommendations to improve implementation from the included studies.

Methods

A systematic literature search of EBSCOhost, Scopus, PUBMED and Web of Science was conducted to identify articles that reported qualitative data on the implementation factors of community-based interventions where PA was a primary outcome. Data were extracted using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) as a guide. Implementation factors and recommendations were then mapped onto the 5 domains of the CFIR and synthesised thematically.

Results

From 495 articles, a total of 13 eligible studies were identified, with 6 studies using a mixed methods approach, and 7 reporting qualitative methods only. There were 82 implementation factors identified, including 37 barriers and 45 facilitators, and a further 26 recommendations from the papers across all 5 domains of the CFIR. More barriers than facilitators were identified within the CFIR domain inner setting, in contrast to all other domains where facilitator numbers outweighed barriers.

Conclusions

This review identified many facilitators and barriers of implementing physical activity interventions in the community. A key finding of this review was the impact of implementation strategies on successful implementation of community PA interventions. From the evidence, it was clear that many barriers to implementation could have been negated or reduced by an implementation plan in which several strategies are embedded. The findings of this review also suggest more attention to individual’ skills and involvement is needed to improve self-efficacy and knowledge. The role of individuals across all organisational levels, from providers to leaders, can impact on the implementation of an intervention and its success.

Trial registration

PROSPERO - CRD42020153821.
The pupillary light reflex (PLR) as a marker for the ability to work or drive – a feasibility study
Authors: Kaifie Andrea , Reugels Martin , Kraus Thomas , Kursawe Michael
Published: September 2021

Background

The PLR (pupillary light reflex) can be a marker for pathological medical conditions, such as neurodegenerative or mental health disorders and diseases as well as marker for physiological alterations, such as age, sex or iris color. PLR alterations have been described in people after alcohol consumption, as well. However, the effect of sleep deprivation on PLR parameters is still under debate.

Methods

The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of PLR measurements in sleep-deprived and alcohol-exposed participants. In addition, we wanted to identify PLR parameters that were altered by sleep deprivation and alcohol exposure.

Results

Altogether n = 50 participants have been included in this study. Differences in the PLR parameters initial diameter (dinit), latency (∆tlat), acceleration (∆ta), contraction velocity (ϑcon), quarter dilatation velocity (ϑ1/4dil), half dilatation time (∆t1/2), and the line integral (L(0.3500)) have been evaluated between baseline, sleep deprivation, as well as alcohol exposure. In a generalized linear mixed models design, we could observe statistically significant associations between the type of exposure and the PLR parameters half dilatation time and half dilatation time after the first light pulse (all p < 0.05). The participants’ latency showed a significant association in dependence of the type of exposure after the second light pulse (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study delivers first promising results to further develop devices that may identify conditions that impair the ability to work or drive.
Effect of abdominal compression on target movement and extension of the external boundary of peripheral lung tumours treated with stereotactic radiotherapy based on four-dimensional computed tomography
Authors: Qi Yuanjun , Li Jianbin , Zhang Yingjie , Shao Qian , Liu Xijun , Li Fengxiang , Wang Jinzhi , Li Zhenxiang , Wang Wei
Published: September 2021

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effect of abdominal compression on tumour motion and target volume and to determine suitable planning target volume (PTV) margins for patients treated with lung stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) based on four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT).

Methods

Twenty-three patients diagnosed to have a peripheral pulmonary tumour were selected and divided into an all lesions group (group A), an upper middle lobe lesions group (group B), and a lower lobe lesions group (group C). Two 4DCT scans were performed in each patient, one with and one without abdominal compression. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed before starting treatment. The gross target volumes (GTVs) were delineated and internal gross target volumes (IGTVs) were defined. IGTVs were generated using two methods: (1) the maximum intensity projections (MIPs) based on the 4DCT were reconstructed to form a single volume and defined as the IGTVMIP and (2) GTVs from all 10 phases were combined to form a single volume and defined as the IGTV10. A 5-mm, 4-mm, and 3-mm margin was added in all directions on the IGTVMIP and the volume was constructed as PTVMIP5mm, PTVMIP4mm, and PTVMIP3mm.

Results

There was no significant difference in the amplitude of tumour motion in the left–right, anterior–posterior, or superior-inferior direction according to whether or not abdominal compression was applied (group A, p = 0.43, 0.27, and 0.29, respectively; group B, p = 0.46, 0.15, and 0.45; group C, p = 0.79, 0.86, and 0.37; Wilcoxon test). However, the median IGTVMIP without abdominal compression was 33.67% higher than that with compression (p = 0.00), and the median IGTV10 without compression was 16.08% higher than that with compression (p = 0.00). The median proportion of the degree of inclusion of the IGTVCBCT in PTVMIP5mm, PTVMIP4mm, and PTVMIP3mm ≥ 95% was 100%, 100%, and 83.33%, respectively.

Conclusions

Abdominal compression was useful for reducing the size of the IGTVMIP and IGTV10 and for decreasing the PTV margins based on 4DCT. In IGTVMIP with abdominal compression, adding a 4-mm margin to account for respiration is feasible in SBRT based on 4DCT.
Similarities of developmental gene expression changes in the brain between human and experimental animals: rhesus monkey, mouse, Zebrafish, and Drosophila
Authors: Nakajima Ryuichi , Hagihara Hideo , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2021

Aim

Experimental animals, such as non-human primates (NHPs), mice, Zebrafish, and Drosophila, are frequently employed as models to gain insights into human physiology and pathology. In developmental neuroscience and related research fields, information about the similarities of developmental gene expression patterns between animal models and humans is vital to choose what animal models to employ. Here, we aimed to statistically compare the similarities of developmental changes of gene expression patterns in the brains of humans with those of animal models frequently used in the neuroscience field.

Methods

The developmental gene expression datasets that we analyzed consist of the fold-changes and P values of gene expression in the brains of animals of various ages compared with those of the youngest postnatal animals available in the dataset. By employing the running Fisher algorithm in a bioinformatics platform, BaseSpace, we assessed similarities between the developmental changes of gene expression patterns in the human (Homo sapiens) hippocampus with those in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta), the DG of the mouse (Mus musculus), the whole brain of Zebrafish (Danio rerio), and the whole brain of Drosophila (D. melanogaster).

Results

Among all possible comparisons of different ages and animals in developmental changes in gene expression patterns within the datasets, those between rhesus monkeys and mice were highly similar to those of humans with significant overlap P-value as assessed by the running Fisher algorithm. There was the highest degree of gene expression similarity between 40–59-year-old humans and 6–12-year-old rhesus monkeys (overlap P-value = 2.1 × 10− 72). The gene expression similarity between 20–39-year-old humans and 29-day-old mice was also significant (overlap P = 1.1 × 10− 44). Moreover, there was a similarity in developmental changes of gene expression patterns between 1–2-year-old Zebrafish and 40–59-year-old humans (Overlap P-value = 1.4 × 10− 6). The overlap P-value of developmental gene expression patterns between Drosophila and humans failed to reach significance (30 days Drosophila and 6–11-year-old humans; overlap P-value = 0.0614).

Conclusions

These results indicate that the developmental gene expression changes in the brains of the rhesus monkey, mouse, and Zebrafish recapitulate, to a certain degree, those in humans. Our findings support the idea that these animal models are a valid tool for investigating the development of the brain in neurophysiological and neuropsychiatric studies.
The future is now: our experience starting a remote clinical trial during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Liu Hans H. , Ezekowitz Michael D. , Columbo Michele , Khan Oneib , Martin Jack , Spahr Judith , Yaron David , Cushinotto Lisa , Kapelusznik Luciano
Published: September 2021

Background

The World Health Organization declared the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 a pandemic on February 11, 2020. This organism causes COVID-19 disease and the rapid rise in cases and geographic spread strained healthcare systems. Clinical research trials were hindered by infection control measures discouraging physical contact and diversion of resources to meet emergent requirements. The need for effective treatment and prevention of COVID-19 prompted an untested investigational response. Trial groups adapted approaches using remote enrolment and consenting, newly developed diagnostic tests, delivery of study medications and devices to participants’ homes, and remote monitoring to ensure investigator/enrollee safety while preserving ethical integrity, confidentiality, and data accuracy.

Methods

Clinical researchers at our community health system in the USA undertook an outpatient randomized open-label study of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) prophylaxis versus observation of SARS-CoV-2 infection in household COVID-19 contacts. Designed in March 2020, challenges included COVID-19 infection in the research group, HCQ shortage, and lack of well-established home SARS-CoV-2 tests and remote ECG monitoring protocols in populations naive to these procedures. The study was written, funded, and received ethical committee approval in 4 months and was completed by September 2020 during a period of fluctuating infection rates and conflicting political opinions on HCQ use; results have been published. Singular methodology included the use of a new RNA PCR saliva SARS-CoV-2 home diagnostic test and a remote smartphone-based 6-lead ECG recording system.

Results

Of 483 households contacted regarding trial participation, 209 (43.3%) did not respond to telephone calls/e-mails and 90 (18.6%) declined; others were not eligible by inclusion or exclusion criteria. Ultimately, 54 individuals were enrolled and 42 completed the study. Numbers were too small to determine the efficacy of HCQ prophylaxis. No serious treatment-related adverse events were encountered.

Conclusions

Flexibility in design, a multidisciplinary research team, prompt cooperation among research, funding, ethics review groups, and finding innovative study approaches enabled this work. Concerns were balancing study recruitment against unduly influencing individuals anxious for protection from the pandemic and exclusion of groups based on lack of Internet access and technology. An issue to address going forward is establishing research cooperation across community health systems before emergencies develop.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04652648. Registered on December 3, 2020.
Field evaluation of transgenic hybrid poplars with desirable wood properties and enhanced growth for biofuel production by bicistronic expression of PdGA20ox1 and PtrMYB3 in wood-forming tissue
Authors: Cho Jin-Seong , Kim Min-Ha , Bae Eun-Kyung , Choi Young-Im , Jeon Hyung-Woo , Han Kyung-Hwan , Ko Jae-Heung
Published: September 2021

Background

To create an ideotype woody bioenergy crop with desirable growth and biomass properties, we utilized the viral 2A-meidated bicistronic expression strategy to express both PtrMYB3 (MYB46 ortholog of Populus trichocarpa, a master regulator of secondary wall biosynthesis) and PdGA20ox1 (a GA20-oxidase from Pinus densiflora that produces gibberellins) in wood-forming tissue (i.e., developing xylem).

Results

Transgenic Arabidopsis plants expressing the gene construct DX15::PdGA20ox1-2A-PtrMYB3 showed a significant increase in both stem fresh weight (threefold) and secondary wall thickening (1.27-fold) relative to wild-type (WT) plants. Transgenic poplars harboring the same gene construct grown in a greenhouse for 60 days had a stem fresh weight up to 2.6-fold greater than that of WT plants. In a living modified organism (LMO) field test conducted for 3 months of active growing season, the stem height and diameter growth of the transgenic poplars were 1.7- and 1.6-fold higher than those of WT plants, respectively, with minimal adverse growth defects. Although no significant changes in secondary wall thickening of the stem tissue of the transgenic poplars were observed, cellulose content was increased up to 14.4 wt% compared to WT, resulting in improved saccharification efficiency of the transgenic poplars. Moreover, enhanced woody biomass production by the transgenic poplars was further validated by re-planting in the same LMO field for additional two growing seasons.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results show considerably enhanced wood formation of our transgenic poplars, with improved wood quality for biofuel production.
Placenta increta presenting with threatened miscarriage during the first trimester in rhesus-negative mother: a case report
Authors: Nik-Ahmad-Zuky Nik Lah , Seoparjoo Azmel , Husna Engku Ismail Engku
Published: September 2021

Background

Placenta accreta is known to be associated with significant maternal morbidity and mortality—primarily due to intractable bleeding during abortion or delivery at any level of gestation. The complications could be reduced if placenta accreta is suspected in a patient with a history of previous cesarean delivery and the gestational sac/placenta is located at the lower part of the uterus. Then, a proper management plan can be instituted, and complications can be reduced. The diagnosis of placenta accreta in the first trimester of pregnancy is considered uncommon.

Case presentation

A 34-year-old Malay, gravida 4, para 3, rhesus-negative woman was referred from a private hospital at 13 weeks owing to accreta suspicion for further management. She has a history of three previous lower-segment cesarean sections. She also had per vaginal bleeding in the early first trimester, which is considered to indicate threatened miscarriage. Transabdominal ultrasound revealed features consistent with placenta accreta spectrum. She was counseled for open laparotomy and hysterectomy because of potential major complication if she continued with the pregnancy. Histopathological examination revealed placenta increta.

Conclusion

A high index of suspicion of placenta previa accreta must be in practice in a patient with a history of previous cesarean deliveries and low-lying placenta upon ultrasound examination during early gestation.
Nonlinear residual echo suppression based on dual-stream DPRNN
Authors: Chen Hongsheng , Chen Guoliang , Chen Kai , Lu Jing
Published: September 2021

The acoustic echo cannot be entirely removed by linear adaptive filters due to the nonlinear relationship between the echo and the far-end signal. Usually, a post-processing module is required to further suppress the echo. In this paper, we propose a residual echo suppression method based on the modification of dual-path recurrent neural network (DPRNN) to improve the quality of speech communication. Both the residual signal and the auxiliary signal, the far-end signal or the output of the adaptive filter, obtained from the linear acoustic echo cancelation are adopted to form a dual-stream for the DPRNN. We validate the efficacy of the proposed method in the notoriously difficult double-talk situations and discuss the impact of different auxiliary signals on performance. We also compare the performance of the time domain and the time-frequency domain processing. Furthermore, we propose an efficient and applicable way to deploy our method to off-the-shelf loudspeakers by fine-tuning the pre-trained model with little recorded-echo data.
Diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumour (DLGNT) in children: the emerging role of genomic analysis
Authors: Manoharan Neevika , Ajuyah Pamela , Senapati Akanksha , Wong Marie , Mullins Anna , Rodriguez Michael , Doyle Helen , McCowage Geoff , Lau Loretta M. S. , Ekert Paul G. , Ziegler David S.
Published: September 2021

Diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumours (DLGNT) represent rare enigmatic CNS tumours of childhood. Most patients with this disease share common radiological and histopathological features but the clinical course of this disease is variable. A radiological hallmark of this disease is widespread leptomeningeal enhancement that may involve the entire neuroaxis with predilection for the posterior fossa and spine. The classic pathologic features include low- to moderate-density cellular lesions with OLIG2 expression and evidence of ‘oligodendroglioma-like’ appearance. The MAPK/ERK signaling pathway has recently been reported as a potential driver of tumourigenesis in up to 80% of DLGNT with KIAA1549:BRAF fusions being the most common event seen. Until now, limited analysis of the biological drivers of tumourigenesis has been undertaken via targeted profiling, chromosomal analysis and immunohistochemistry. Our study represents the first examples of comprehensive genomic sequencing in DLGNT and shows that it is not only feasible but crucial to our understanding of this rare disease. Moreover, we demonstrate that DLGNT may be more genomically complex than single-event MAPK/ERK signaling pathway tumours.
The effects of vitamin D supplementation in carpal tunnel syndrome treatment outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Anusitviwat Chirathit , Suwanno Porames , Suwannaphisit Sitthiphong
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Vitamin D deficiency is related to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Correcting vitamin D levels by supplementation was supposed to improve carpel tunnel symptoms, though there is a lack of aggregated data about treatment outcomes. This study aimed to examine whether vitamin D supplementation could improve the treatment outcomes in carpal tunnel syndrome patients.

Methods

A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for articles on vitamin D and carpel tunnel syndrome from January 2000 to March 2021 was performed. The article screening and data extraction were performed by two investigators independently with blinding to decisions on selected studies. All included studies had assessed the quality of evidence using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) scoring system.

Results

We retrieved four studies that met the eligibility criteria. The treatment outcomes were evaluated by visual analog scale (124 wrists), functional scores (176 patients), muscle strength (84 patients), and nerve conduction velocity (216 wrists). After vitamin D supplementation, two studies reported improved pain scores and nerve conduction velocity, and three studies showed enhancement of functional status.

Conclusion

Vitamin D administration could offer favorable outcomes in pain improvement, better functional status, and increased sensory conduction velocity in carpal tunnel syndrome. However, there is to date no recommendations concerning a standardized dose or duration of vitamin D administration in carpal tunnel syndrome; prescribing vitamin D at the usual appropriate dose is suggested as an additional treatment in patients with mild to moderate carpel tunnel symptoms.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, therapeutic study
CT and MRI findings of cystic renal cell carcinoma: comparison with cystic collecting duct carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Qingqiang , Ling Jun , Ye Jing , Zhu Wenrong , Wu Jingtao , Chen Wenxin
Published: September 2021

Background

Cystic renal cell carcinoma (CRCC) and cystic collecting duct carcinoma (CCDC) share similar oncogeni and some imaging findings. The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical and CT imagings features of CRCC and CCDC.

Methods

Thirty-three patients with CRCC and thirteen patients with CCDC with pathologically proven were retrospectively studied. Tumor characteristics were assessed.

Results

On CT imaging, 33 patients(100 %) with CRCC and 13 patients(100 %) with CCDC, tumors calcifications (8 vs. 9, P < 0.0001), had a clear boundary (capsule sign, 30 vs. 2, P < 0.0001), infiltrative appearance (1 vs. 13, P < 0.0001), exogenous appearance (29 vs. 3, P < 0.0001), invaded the renal pelvis or ureter (1 vs. 10, P < 0.0001), hemorrhage (1 vs. 10, P < 0.0001), had retroperitoneal lymph node or distant metastasis (2 vs. 10, P < 0.0001), thickened enhancing internal septations (31 vs. 2, P < 0.0001), and mural soft-tissue nodules (21 vs. 1, P < 0.0001). On MR imaging,13 patients(39 %) with CRCC and 4 patients(31 %) with CCDC, all CRCCs appeared hypointense on T1-weighted images and hyperintense on T2-weighted images, however, all CCDCs appeared hypointense on T1-weighted images and hypointense on T2-weighted images(P < 0.0001). 33 patients with CRCC, they were all alive from3 years to 10 years follow-up, however, 13 patients with CCDC, of which 11 patients were able to be followed up, and 9 patients expired within 5 years of the initial diagnosis and the others are currently still alive.

Conclusions

Distinguishing features of CRCC and CCDC included calcifications, capsule signs, infiltrative appearance, metastasis, internal septations, mural nodules and signal on CT or MR images. These imaging features may help in differentiating the two renal tumor types.
Variation in serum urate levels in the absence of gout and urate lowering therapy
Authors: Shaffer Andrew , Rahn Elizabeth , Saag Kenneth , Mudano Amy , Gaffo Angelo
Published: September 2021

Background

Previous studies have noted significant variation in serum urate (sUA) levels, and it is unknown how this influences the accuracy of hyperuricemia classification based on single data points. Despite this known variability, hyperuricemic patients are often used as a control group in gout studies. Our objective was to determine the accuracy of hyperuricemia classifications based on single data points versus multiple data points given the degree of variability observed with serial measurements of sUA.

Methods

Data was analyzed from a cross-over clinical trial of urate-lowering therapy in young adults without a gout diagnosis. In the control phase, sUA levels used for this analysis were collected at 2–4 week intervals. Mean coefficient of variation for sUA was determined, as were rates of conversion between normouricemia (sUA ≤6.8 mg/dL) and hyperuricemia (sUA > 6.8 mg/dL).

Results

Mean study participant (n = 85) age was 27.8 ± 7.0 years, with 39% female participants and 41% African-American participants. Mean sUA coefficient of variation was 8.5% ± 4.9% (1 to 23%). There was no significant difference in variation between men and women, or between participants initially normouricemic and those who were initially hyperuricemic.

Among those initially normouricemic (n = 72), 21% converted to hyperuricemia during at least one subsequent measurement. The subgroup with initial sUA < 6.0 (n = 54) was much less likely to have future values in the range of hyperuricemia compared to the group with screening sUA values between 6.0–6.8 (n = 18) (7% vs 39%, p = 0.0037).

Of the participants initially hyperuricemic (n = 13), 46% were later normouricemic during at least one measurement.

Conclusion

Single sUA measurements were unreliable in hyperuricemia classification due to spontaneous variation. Knowing this, if a single measurement must be used in classification, it is worth noting that those with an sUA of < 6.0 mg/dL were less likely to demonstrate future hyperuricemic measurements and this could be considered a safer threshold to rule out intermittent hyperuricemia based on a single measurement point.

Trial registration

Data from parent study ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02038179.
Dynamic graph exploration by interactively linked node-link diagrams and matrix visualizations
Authors: Burch Michael , ten Brinke Kiet Bennema , Castella Adrien , Peters Ghassen Karray Sebastiaan , Shteriyanov Vasil , Vlasvinkel Rinse
Published: September 2021

The visualization of dynamic graphs is a challenging task owing to the various properties of the underlying relational data and the additional time-varying property. For sparse and small graphs, the most efficient approach to such visualization is node-link diagrams, whereas for dense graphs with attached data, adjacency matrices might be the better choice. Because graphs can contain both properties, being globally sparse and locally dense, a combination of several visual metaphors as well as static and dynamic visualizations is beneficial. In this paper, a visually and algorithmically scalable approach that provides views and perspectives on graphs as interactively linked node-link and adjacency matrix visualizations is described. As the novelty of this technique, insights such as clusters or anomalies from one or several combined views can be used to influence the layout or reordering of the other views. Moreover, the importance of nodes and node groups can be detected, computed, and visualized by considering several layout and reordering properties in combination as well as different edge properties for the same set of nodes. As an additional feature set, an automatic identification of groups, clusters, and outliers is provided over time, and based on the visual outcome of the node-link and matrix visualizations, the repertoire of the supported layout and matrix reordering techniques is extended, and more interaction techniques are provided when considering the dynamics of the graph data. Finally, a small user experiment was conducted to investigate the usability of the proposed approach. The usefulness of the proposed tool is illustrated by applying it to a graph dataset, such as e co-authorships, co-citations, and a Comprehensible Perl Archive Network distribution.
Specifically designed amine functional group doped sludge biochar for inorganic and organic arsenic removal
Authors: Chen Chih-Kuei , Nguyen Nhat-Thien , Le Thuy-Trang , Duong Cong-Chinh , Duong Thi-Thanh
Published: September 2021

Usages of hospital sludge as a biochar adsorbent for wastewater treatment plants were investigated. Microwave carbonization was used to carbonize the sludge and then chemically activated with ZnCl2 to increase surface area and porosity. A newly designed amine functional group’s doped Sludge Biochar Carbon (SBC) presents effective inorganic arsenic (As (III)) and organic arsenic (Dimethylarsinic Acid, DMA) adsorption in water. The pore volume, pore size distribution and specific surface area were determined by performing nitrogen adsorption-desorption measurements. The Fourier Transform Infrared of the SBC was recorded to study the functional groups at room temperature. The composition of SBC was further determined by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy. In order to understand the effect of amine functional complexes on arsenic adsorption, the adsorption mechanism of As (III) and DMA on SBC surfaces modified with amine functional complexes was studied using Density Functional Theory (DFT). DFT results showed that both physical and chemical adsorption of As (III) and DMA on SBC surfaces occurred. The participation of amine functional complexes greatly promoted the surface activity of SBC surface and its adsorption capacity on arsenic. The physical adsorption energies of As (III) and DMA on SBC surface with amine functional complexes were − 38.8 and − 32.4 kJ mol− 1, respectively. The chemical adsorption energies of As (III) and DMA on SBC surface with amine functional complexes were − 92.9 and − 98.5 kJ mol− 1, respectively.
Evaluation of the cytotoxic anticancer effect of polysaccharide of Nepeta septemcrenata
Authors: Nasr Sawsan Ahmed , Saad Amel Abd El-Moneim
Published: September 2021

Background

Promoting cancer cells apoptosis is one of the effective methods to treat cancer. Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and colorectal cancer (HCT-116) cell lines were used in the present study to evaluate the cytotoxic and anticancer properties of Nepeta septemcrenata Polysaccharide (NSP).

Result

Treatment of the two examined cells with NSP displayed a significant cytotoxicity towards HepG2 in a dose-dependent manner; meanwhile, its effect on HCT-116 was obtained under the influence of low doses. The quantitative real- time PCR (QRT-PCR) investigation revealed that NSP significantly up-regulated the expression levels of p53, p16, Fas, Fas-L, Bax, caspases-3, caspase-9, and TNF-α in association with down-regulation of cyclin D1, TERT, and BCL2. These findings declare the apoptotic characteristic of NSP.NSP, can also inhibit the development of cancer cells through the down-regulation of TGF-β and VEGF.

Conclusions

Our results suggested that the polysaccharides isolated from N. septemcrenata possess anticancer properties that could be explored for the development of novel anticancer agents.
Anti-trypanosomal activity and DNA fingerprinting of fifteen Euphorbia species using ISSR and SCoT markers
Authors: El-Hawary Seham S. , Lithy Nadia M. , Amin Elham , AbouZid Sameh F. , Mohammed Rabab
Published: September 2021

Background

Euphorbiais the largest genus in family Euphorbiaceae with a great biological and genetic diversity. The anti-trypanosomal activity of the crude extract of 15Euphorbiaspecies againstTrypanosoma brucei bruceiwas carried out. Furthermore, DNA fingerprinting of the tested species using ISSR and SCoT markers was also investigated.

Results

The anti-trypanosomal activity of the 15Euphorbiaspecies revealed the highest activity ofE. officinarumL. andE. milliDes Moul. againstTrypanosoma brucei bruceiwith IC50values < 10 μg/mL after 48- and 72-h incubation. Moreover, the assessment of the genetic diversity among the 15 tested species showed similar correlation coefficients of 0.76–0.98 which classifiedEuphorbiaspecies into two main groups, one contained two species and the other contained 13 species.

Conclusions

SomeEuphorbiaspecies exhibited significant growth inhibitory activity towardTrypanosoma bruceistrain TC221. Results also indicated the suitability of both markers for genetic fingerprinting of the testedEuphorbiaspecies. To our knowledge, this is the first detailed comparison of the performance of two targeted DNA molecular markers (SCoT and ISSR) on the tested 15Euphorbiaspecies. The results guide future efficient use of these molecular markers in the genetic analysis ofEuphorbia.