bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Singular integrals of subordinators with applications to structural properties of SPDEs
Authors: Deng Chang-Song , Schilling René , Xu Lihu
Published: June 2022

We study stochastic integrals driven by a general subordinator and establish a zero-one law for the finiteness of the resulting integral as well as moment estimates. As an application, we use these results to obtain structural properties of SPDEs driven by multiplicative pure jump noise, which include (1) a maximal inequality for a multiplicative stochastic convolution

Z
t

Z_t

, (2) a small ball probability of

Z
t

Z_t

, (3) the existence of invariant measures and accessibility to zero of SPDEs, and (4) a Galerkin approximation of solutions to SPDEs.
PolyAtailor: measuring poly(A) tail length from short-read and long-read sequencing data
Authors: Liu Mengfei , Hao Linlin , Yang Sien , Wu Xiaohui
Published: June 2022

The poly(A) tail is a dynamic addition to the eukaryotic mRNA and the change in its length plays an essential role in regulating gene expression through affecting nuclear export, mRNA stability and translation. Only recently high-throughput sequencing strategies began to emerge for transcriptome-wide profiling of poly(A) tail length in diverse developmental stages and organisms. However, there is currently no easy-to-use and universal tool for measuring poly(A) tails in sequencing data from different sequencing protocols. Here we established PolyAtailor, a unified and efficient framework, for identifying and analyzing poly(A) tails from PacBio-based long reads or next generation short reads. PolyAtailor provides two core functions for measuring poly(A) tails, namely Tail_map and Tail_scan, which can be used for profiling tails with or without using a reference genome. Particularly, PolyAtailor can identify all potential tails in a read, providing users with detailed information such as tail position, tail length, tail sequence and tail type. Moreover, PolyAtailor integrates rich functions for poly(A) tail and poly(A) site analyses, such as differential poly(A) length analysis, poly(A) site identification and annotation, and statistics and visualization of base composition in tails. We compared PolyAtailor with three latest methods, FLAMAnalysis, FLEPSeq and PAIsoSeqAnalysis, using data from three sequencing protocols in HeLa samples and Arabidopsis. Results show that PolyAtailor is effective in measuring poly(A) tail length and detecting significance of differential poly(A) length, which achieves much higher sensitivity and accuracy than competing methods. PolyAtailor is available at https://github.com/BMILAB/PolyAtailor.
Reimagining Social Work Placements in the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: O’Keeffe Patrick , Haralambous Betty , Egan Ronnie , Heales Emily , Baskarathas Sobika , Thompson Scott , Jerono Caroline
Published: June 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic has fundamentally changed how social work education is provided, and these changes are particularly pronounced in field education. Globally, the introduction of restrictions on mobility and social interaction have contributed to the cancellation, postponement and early termination of social work field placements. Accrediting bodies, social work field education departments and industry partner agencies have needed to rapidly adapt how placements are conceptualised and provided. This article examines the experiences of agencies who have continued to provide student placements throughout the pandemic. Interviews were conducted with placement supervisors employed at twelve human services agencies partnering with a university social work department in Melbourne, Australia. Whilst experiencing challenges, agencies outlined how they adapted to the environment to enable meaningful student placement experiences. This article contributes to an ongoing discussion around the trajectory of social work field education and the significance of agency-based placements in this evolution.
Cell-Free DNA as Biomarker for Sepsis by Integration of Microbial and Host Information
Authors: Jing Qiuyu , Leung Chi Hung Czarina , Wu Angela Ruohao
Published: June 2022

Background

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is emerging as a biomarker for sepsis. Previous studies have been focused mainly on identifying blood infections or simply quantifying cfDNA. We propose that by characterizing multifaceted unexplored components, cfDNA could be more informative for assessing this complex syndrome.

Methods

We explored multiple aspects of cfDNA in septic and nonseptic intensive care unit (ICU) patients by metagenomic sequencing, with longitudinal measurement and integrative assessment of plasma cfDNA quantity, human cfDNA fragmentation patterns, infecting pathogens, and overall microbial composition.

Results

Septic patients had significantly increased cfDNA quantity and altered human cfDNA fragmentation pattern. Moreover, human cfDNA fragments appeared to comprise information about cellular oxidative stress and could indicate disease severity. Metagenomic sequencing was more sensitive than blood culture in detecting bacterial infections and allowed for simultaneous detection of viral pathogens. We found differences in microbial composition between septic and nonseptic patients and between survivors and nonsurvivors by 28-day mortality, both on the first day of ICU admission and across the study period. By integrating all the information into a machine learning model, we achieved improved performance in identifying sepsis and prediction of clinical outcome for ICU patients with areas under the curve of 0.992 (95% CI 0.969–1.000) and 0.802 (95% CI 0.605–0.999), respectively.

Conclusions

We were able to diagnose sepsis and predict mortality as soon as the first day of ICU admission by integrating multifaceted cfDNA information obtained in a single metagenomic assay; this approach could provide important advantages for clinical management and for improving outcomes in ICU patients.
Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Syndromes and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: an ECCO CONFER Multicentre Case Series
Authors: Barberio Brigida , Savarino Edoardo , Verstockt Bram , Fumery Mathurin , Pugliese Daniela , Bertani Lorenzo , Buda Andrea , Dragoni Gabriele , Goren Idan , Laish Ido , Spinelli Antonino , Teich Niels , Truyens Marie , Ellul Pierre
Published: June 2022

Background

Hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes [HCCS] are rare polyposis or nonpolyposis syndromes with a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer [CRC]. Coexisting inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], including ulcerative colitis [UC] and Crohn’s disease [CD], with HCCS is exceedingly rare and presumably increases the risk of early-onset CRC.

Methods

This was a multicentre case series performed as a part of the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation [ECCO] Collaborative Network of Exceptionally Rare case reports [CONFER] project.

Results

This report includes 26 patients with IBD (10 UC, 15 CD, and one with IBD unclassified [IBD-U]) and concomitant HCCS. Among these 26 patients([median age 33 years, interquartile range [IQR] 20–44], 15 [57.7%] were males, 24 [92.3%] Caucasians, and two [7.7%] of Arab origin. HCCS was diagnosed before the IBD diagnosis in 11 patients [42.3%], after diagnosis of IBD in 11 patients [42.3%], and concurrently in four patients [15.4%]. Sixteen patients had Lynch syndrome, seven had familial adenomatous polyposis [FAP], two had MYH-associated polyposis [MAP], and one had attenuated FAP [AFAP]. The most frequent genetic mutations were those of APC [n = 7] and MLH1 [n = 7]. Overall, CRC developed in 38.5% of patients [n = 10]: in four patients [40%] after IBD diagnosis, in four [40%] patients before IBD diagnosis, and in two patients the two conditions were diagnosed simultaneously. Eighteen [69.2%] patients underwent colectomy or abdominal surgery: nine patients due to CRC diagnosis, five patients preventively due to the underlying HCCS, three due to the underlying HCCS and concomitant active IBD disease, and one patient because of active IBD disease. One patient died due to CRC.

Conclusions

To date, this is the largest case series of patients with IBD and HCCS. The most frequent diagnosis of HCCS associated with IBD was Lynch syndrome. These data demonstrate the high malignancy rate and surgical intervention rate in this IBD cohort, despite the endoscopic surveillance. The optimal medical approach still needs to be addressed.
Estimating the rates of crossover and gene conversion from individual genomes
Authors: Setter Derek , Ebdon Sam , Jackson Ben , Lohse Konrad
Published: June 2022

Recombination can occur either as a result of crossover or gene conversion events. Population genetic methods for inferring the rate of recombination from patterns of linkage disequilibrium generally assume a simple model of recombination that only involves crossover events and ignore gene conversion. However, distinguishing the 2 processes is not only necessary for a complete description of recombination, but also essential for understanding the evolutionary consequences of inversions and other genomic partitions in which crossover (but not gene conversion) is reduced. We present heRho, a simple composite likelihood scheme for coestimating the rate of crossover and gene conversion from individual diploid genomes. The method is based on analytic results for the distance-dependent probability of heterozygous and homozygous states at 2 loci. We apply heRho to simulations and data from the house mouse Mus musculus castaneus, a well-studied model. Our analyses show (1) that the rates of crossover and gene conversion can be accurately coestimated at the level of individual chromosomes and (2) that previous estimates of the population scaled rate of recombination ρ=4Ner under a pure crossover model are likely biased.
Medication Barriers and Adherence: Experiences of Pediatric Transplant Recipients
Authors: Killian Michael Otis , Triplett Kelli , Mayersohn Gillian , Howry Savarra K , Masood Saba , Desai Dev
Published: June 2022

This study examined associations between scores on the Adolescent Medication Barriers Scale (AMBS) and the Parent Medication Barriers Scale (PMBS), patient and family factors, and medication adherence outcomes. Patients and caregivers from a pediatric solid organ transplantation (SOT) program were recruited for participation. Pediatric SOT recipients ages 10 to 21 years were eligible for participation. Analyses included reliability analyses and regression modeling with posttransplant medication adherence measured by Medication Level Variability Index scores. Seventy-three patients and caregivers completed an AMBS or PMBS questionnaire. Patient–caregiver inter-rater reliability was poor to fair. Greater medication barriers were reported among younger and female patients and families with more children. AMBS scores predicted greater nonadherence, while the PMBS was not predictive of adherence. Results point to the difficulty of assessing barriers to medication adherence and the lack of agreement between adolescent patients and caregivers. AMBS scores were more closely aligned with medication nonadherence, whereas PMBS scores may have been more influenced by family social factors. Adolescent reports of medication barriers may offer multidisciplinary transplant teams greater clinical utility when addressing these challenges with patients. Transplant social workers and psychologists should engage adolescents and caregivers in efforts to address medication nonadherence.
P-355 Association between high serum uric acid level and adverse reproductive outcomes in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Mu L , Liu C , Yang H
Published: June 2022

Study question

Does high serum uric acid (SUA) level affect the reproductive outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF)?

Summary answer

Elevated SUA is associated with decreased live birth rate, biochemical pregnancy rate and clinical pregnancy rate, and increased miscarriage rate in women with PCOS.

What is known already

SUA levelsand the prevalence of hyperuricemia (25.48%) are both significantly higher in women with PCOS than in women without PCOS (8.74%). SUA levels also can be used as a predictor of pregnancy complications (gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy) and adverse foetal outcomes (preterm birth and low birth weight).

Study design, size, duration

This retrospective cohort study was conducted ininfertile women with PCOS between September 2012 and December 2019.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

A total of 1,032 infertile PCOS women undergoing their first IVF/ICSI cycle were observed. Data of reproductive outcomes including live birth rate, biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and miscarriage rate were analyzed according to the quartile groups of SUA levels.

Main results and the role of chance

In quartiles of SUA levels, there was a significant decreasing trend in live birth rate from the lowest quartile (Q1: 34.5%) to the highest (Q4: 19.2%) (Pfor trend <0.001). Notably, the miscarriage rate in Q4 was significantly higher than that in the other 3 quartiles (all P values < 0.05). From Q1 to Q4, the incidence of miscarriage dramatically increased from 15.5% to 31.0% (Pfor trend <0.05). In addition, the biochemical pregnancy rate and clinical pregnancy rate decreased significantly from the lowest quartile to the highest (Pfor trend <0.05). With the first quartile of uric acid as the reference group, the logistic regression analysis showed that in both unadjusted and adjusted models, elevated SUA level was associated with significantly lower probabilities of live birth, biochemical pregnancy, and clinical pregnancy, and a higher risk of miscarriage in a linear fashion (all Pfor trend< 0.05).

Limitations, reasons for caution

This study is limited by its retrospective design. It was difficult to ensure consistency in clinical practice among the physicians.

Wider implications of the findings

Our study suggeststhat clinical physicians need to pay close attention to PCOS women with high SUA levelsbefore IVF treatment. Prospective studies to determine an appropriate range of lower-SUA levels prior to treatment is necessary to support our findings.

Trial registration number

not applicable
P-490 Patient Care Guidance: Development of a unique tool for fertility clinics based on best practice evidence
Authors: Baccino G , Dejewski J
Published: June 2022

Study question

How can fertility clinics be encouraged to implement evidence-based person-centred care?

Summary answer

To help fertility clinics provide holistic care to their patients a multidisciplinary team developed a user-friendly, evidence based practical guidance.

What is known already

Despite wide evidence about the benefits of person-centred care for patients seeking fertility treatment, this is not systematically implemented in most fertility clinics.

Study design, size, duration

The aim was to develop evidence-based practical guidance on person-centred care for fertility clinics. A multidisciplinary team collaborated to developed person-centred care guidance for fertility clinics over a 12-month period.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

A group of 18 stakeholders, including:15 fertility experts, 2 patient associations and 1 quality manager reviewed and summarised evidence relating to the needs of fertility patients to guide the implementation of person-centred care in fertility clinics. It was specially designed to fulfil the needs of different countries’ legislation and cultural contexts.

Main results and the role of chance

This collaboration resulted in a unique and practical evidence-based tool to help fertility clinics implement best practice in person-centred care. It includes a range of topics such as: the importance of a patient care system in ART; benefits of patient-centered care for patients, staff, and the clinic; ways to communicate information to patients; informing about fertility treatment options; fertility awareness; men’s needs; emotional support; benefits of a mentor program; how to support to staff; exit strategies; needs of patients seeking cross-border care; the fertility clinic’ online communication; engaging patients in good and safe choices; and also how to care about patients undergoing a gamete donation treatment.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Despite the large number of topics required to support on fertility clinics, high impact topics were prioritised in the first phase of the guidance document – which will be updated periodically.

Wider implications of the findings

This guidance offers added value to fertility clinics and patients. The authors were able to adapt scientific evidence into a practical and user-friendly guidance that allows all staff to understand the concept of patient-centred care, the roles, responsibilities, actions that can be taken to improve patient experience, outcome and care.

Trial registration number

NO
P-593 Low dose clomiphene citrate does not reduce implantation rates - a cohort study based on modified Natural Cycle IVF
Authors: Grädel F , Mitter V , Kohl Schwartz A , Von Wolff M
Published: June 2022

Study question

Does low dose clomiphene citrate (CC) reduce implantation and eventually pregnancy and live birth rates?

Summary answer

Low dose CC does not reduce implantation rate and pregnancy and live birth rates – based on the model of modified Natural Cycle IVF (NC-IVF).

What is known already

CC is commonly used for ovulation induction in the treatment of anovulation or idiopathic infertility. It is also added to NC-IVF cycles to mildly stimulate follicular growth and to inhibit LH surge. CC reduces endometrial thickness and affects endometrial function. Therefore it is assumed that CC negatively affects implantation and thereby reduced pregnancy and live birth per embryo. However, previous studies have shown inconsistent results as previous studies mainly calculated pregnancy rates per cycle but not implantation rate per embryo.

Study design, size, duration

This cohort study included embryos transferred in NC–IVF and CC-NC-IVF cycles. Women with a maximum age of 42 years were treated at a university hospital between 2011 and 2016. Clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate per embryo transferred and miscarriage rate per amniotic sac were calculated.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

A daily dose of 25mg of CC starting on day 5-7 of the cycle until the day of ovulation trigger was applied. A modified mixed effect Poisson regression model was used to account for the number of cycles in the same women and the number of embryos in the same cycle to achieve rate ratios (RR). Adjustment for maternal age, parity, type of infertility, duration of subfertility and indication for IVF were made.

Main results and the role of chance

499 couples underwent a total of 1043 IVF cycles, 453 NC-IVF and 590 CC-NC-IVF cycles. Baseline characteristics of both groups were not different. The additional administration of CC did neither decrease clinical pregnancy rate (aRR 1.16; 95% CI: 0.90 – 1.50)[MV1] nor live birth rate per transferred embryo (aRR 1.20; 95% CI: 0.89 – 1.62). Miscarriage rate was also not different in CC-NC-IVF compared to NC-IVF (aRR 1.05; 95%: CI 0.63 – 1.76).

Limitations, reasons for caution

This study does not allow to draw any conclusions regarding the effect of higher CC dosages. As randomization was not performed, some bias regarding the choice of IVF treatment cannot be completely excluded.

Wider implications of the findings

As this study revealed for the first time that low dose CC does not affect implantation, low does CC can be used for many different treatments. However, further studies are required to evaluate if this also applies to higher CC dosages.

Trial registration number

not applicable
Genetic architecture of a composite beef cattle population
Authors: Hay El Hamidi , Toghiani Sajjad , Roberts Andrew J , Paim Tiago , Kuehn Larry Alexander , Blackburn Harvey D
Published: June 2022

Composite breeds are widely used in the beef industry. Composites allow producers to combine desirable traits from the progenitor breeds and simplify herd management, without repeated crossbreeding and maintenance of purebreds. In this study, genomic information was used to evaluate the genetic composition and characteristics of a three-breed beef cattle composite. This composite population referred to as Composite Gene Combination (CGC) consisted of 50% Red Angus, 25% Charolais, and 25% Tarentaise. A total of 248 animals were used in this study: CGC (n = 79), Red Angus (n = 61), Charolais (n = 79), and Tarentaise (n = 29). All animals were genotyped with 777k HD panel. Principal component and ADMIXTURE analyses were carried out to evaluate the genetic structure of CGC animals. The ADMIXTURE revealed the proportion of Tarentaise increased to approximately 57%, whereas Charolais decreased to approximately 5% and Red Angus decreased to 38% across generations. To evaluate these changes in the genomic composition across different breeds and in CGC across generations, runs of homozygosity (ROH) were conducted. This analysis showed Red Angus to have the highest total length of ROH segments per animal with a mean of 349.92 Mb and lowest in CGC with a mean of 141.10 Mb. Furthermore, it showed the formation of new haplotypes in CGC around the sixth generation. Selection signatures were evaluated through Fst and HapFlk analyses. Several selection sweeps in CGC were identified especially in chromosomes 5 and 14 which have previously been reported to be associated with coat color and growth traits. The study supports our previous findings that progenitor combinations are not stable over generations and that either direct or natural selection plays a role in modifying the progenitor proportions. Furthermore, the results showed that Tarentaise contributed useful attributes to the composite in a cool semi-arid environment and suggests a re-exploration of this breed’s role may be warranted.
Chinese court rules on NFT transactions and responsibility of trading platforms
Authors: Baiyang Xiao
Published: June 2022

The Hangzhou Internet Court decided that an NFT transaction is covered by the right of communication through information networks and that NFT trading platforms shall bear a higher duty of care.
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the anterior abdominal wall: case report and literature review
Authors: Souiki Tarik , Belhaj Anas , Ait Abderrhim Abderrahim , Alami Badreeddine , Tahiri Layla , Chbani Laila , Ibn Majdoub Karim , Toughrai Imane , Mazaz Khalid
Published: June 2022

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare and slowly growing cutaneous tumor with high risk of local invasion and recurrence. Here, we report a case of a DFSP of the anterior abdominal wall diagnosed in a 45-year-old woman. The clinical examination showed an indurated well-limited oval mass localized in the supra-umbilical level and measuring 5 cm by 3 cm. The histological finding of skin biopsy was consistent with the diagnosis of DFSP. A wide local excision was performed while respecting minimum safety margins of 3 cm. The primary closure was possible after advancing the subcutaneous adjacent tissue. The histological examination of the surgical specimen confirmed the DFSP diagnosis and determined safe microscopic margins. After 4 years of regular follow-up, no locoregional or distant recurrence was observed. We discuss through this case the diagnosis difficulties and the particularities of the abdominal wall localization.
Translating across kingdoms: target of rapamycin promotes protein synthesis through conserved and divergent pathways in plants
Authors: Scarpin M Regina , Simmons Carl H , Brunkard Jacob O
Published: June 2022

mRNA translation is the growth rate-limiting step in genome expression. Target of rapamycin (TOR) evolved a central regulatory role in eukaryotes as a signaling hub that monitors nutrient availability to maintain homeostasis and promote growth, largely by increasing the rate of translation initiation and protein synthesis. The dynamic pathways engaged by TOR to regulate translation remain debated even in well-studied yeast and mammalian models, however, despite decades of intense investigation. Recent studies have firmly established that TOR also regulates mRNA translation in plants through conserved mechanisms, such as the TOR–LARP1–5ʹTOP signaling axis, and through pathways specific to plants. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the regulation of mRNA translation in plants by TOR.
Pulsating B stars in the Scorpius–Centaurus Association with TESS
Authors: Sharma Awshesh N , Bedding Timothy R , Saio Hideyuki , White Timothy R
Published: June 2022

We study 119 B stars located in the Scorpius–Centaurus Association using data from NASA’s TESS Mission. We see pulsations in 81 stars (68 per cent) across the full range of effective temperatures. In particular, we confirm previous reports of low-frequency pulsations in stars whose temperatures fall between the instability strips of SPB stars (slowly pulsating B stars) and δ Scuti stars. By taking the stellar densities into account, we conclude that these cannot be p modes and confirm previous suggestions that these are probably rapidly rotating SPB stars. We also confirm that they follow two period–luminosity relations that are consistent with prograde sectoral g modes that are dipole (l = m = 1) and quadrupole (l = m = 2), respectively. One of the stars (ξ2 Cen) is a hybrid pulsator that shows regular spacings in both g and p modes. We confirm that α Cru has low-amplitude p-mode pulsations, making it one of the brightest β Cephei stars in the sky. We also find several interesting binaries, including a very short-period heartbeat star (HD 132094), a previously unknown eclipsing binary (π Lup), and an eclipsing binary with high-amplitude tidally driven pulsations (HR 5846). The results clearly demonstrate the power of TESS for studying variability in stellar associations.
Quasi-randomization by survey date for policy analysis
Authors: Kim Kimin , Lee Myoung-Jae
Published: June 2022

In annual surveys, the interview dates are scattered over several months. When a policy takes place during the survey period, quasi-randomized data may be obtained, if individuals interviewed before and after the policy timing are similar. The policy effect can be found with a before–after difference, which is ‘Quasi-Randomization by Survey date (QRS)’. QRS may be viewed as an regression discontinuity (RD) with time as the running variable. When seasonality is present, the RD-style estimator fails, but we develop a difference-in-differences style estimator, which relies on a weaker assumption analogous to parallel trends that controls for sesonality. We provide an empirical example using Korea Labor and Income Panel Study data for a weekly work-hour reduction law in 2004 from 44 to 40 h. We find that the law effect is about 2 h reduction, not 4 h as the law stipulates.
Risk Factors for Admission Within a Hospital-Based COVID-19 Home Monitoring Program
Authors: Sperring Heather , Hofman Melissa , Hsu Heather E , Xiao Yian , Keohane Elizabeth A , Lodi Sara , Marathe Jai , Epstein Rachel L
Published: June 2022

Background

Despite increasing vaccination rates, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to overwhelm heath systems worldwide. Few studies follow outpatients diagnosed with COVID-19 to understand risks for subsequent admissions. We sought to identify hospital admission risk factors in individuals with COVID-19 to guide outpatient follow-up and prioritization for novel therapeutics.

Methods

We prospectively designed data collection templates and remotely monitored patients after a COVID-19 diagnosis, then retrospectively analyzed data to identify risk factors for 30-day admission for those initially managed outpatient and for 30-day re-admissions for those monitored after an initial COVID-19 admission. We included all patients followed by our COVID-19 follow-up monitoring program from April 2020 to February 2021.

Results

Among 4070 individuals followed by the program, older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03–1.06), multiple comorbidities (1–2: aOR, 5.88; 95% CI, 2.07–16.72; ≥3: aOR, 20.40; 95% CI, 7.23–57.54), presence of fever (aOR, 2.70; 95% CI, 1.65–4.42), respiratory symptoms (aOR, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.53–3.94), and gastrointestinal symptoms (aOR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.53–3.94) at initial contact were associated with increased risk of COVID-19-related 30-day admission among those initially managed outpatient. Loss of taste/smell was associated with decreased admission risk (aOR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.25–0.85). For postdischarge patients, older age was also associated with increased re-admission risk (aOR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01–1.06).

Conclusions

This study reveals that in addition to older age and specific comorbidities, the number of high-risk conditions, fever, respiratory symptoms, and gastrointestinal symptoms at diagnosis all increased odds of COVID-19-related admission. These data could enhance patient prioritization for early treatment interventions and ongoing surveillance.
Valorization of transdisciplinary research: An evaluation approach and empirical illustration
Authors: Munaretto Stefania , Mooren Caro E , Hessels Laurens K
Published: June 2022

In recent times, there has been a surge of impact-oriented, transdisciplinary research programmes and projects integrating multiple disciplines, types of knowledge and practices. An essential element often mentioned in the literature to improve the performance of these programmes and support impact delivery is continuous reflection and learning via evaluation. We argue that because a standard format for organizing transdisciplinary research does not exist, tailor-made evaluation approaches designed around the specificities of each programme are needed. The existing evaluation literature provides useful building blocks that can be integrated and adapted to specific transdisciplinary research contexts. In this article, we develop the valorization cycle and apply it to evaluate a transdisciplinary research programme in the water sector. The building blocks of our approach are: understanding of valorization as a cyclical process; theory of change as a logic model to structure the evaluation; productive interactions as a process indicator articulated in learning outcomes (cognitive, relational, and strategic); and impact pathways as narratives to explain impact dynamics. Our framework is based both on research evaluation and learning literature and on our personal experience in the evaluation of transdisciplinary research. The evaluation of the programme showed how the valorization cycle can point to different learning outcomes across the research process that are conducive to impact, and provided useful insights to the programme managers to adjust the programme. The principle of tailoring an evaluation approach to the specificities of the programme evaluated using building blocks from the literature will be applicable in other transdisciplinary contexts too.
Induced Defense Response in Soybean to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Using Wuyiencin from Streptomyces albulus CK-15
Authors: Yang Miaoling , Zhang Wei , Lv Zhaoyang , Shi Liming , Zhang Kecheng , Ge Beibei
Published: June 2022

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib) de Bary, a destructive fungal pathogen with an extensive host range, causes major economic losses to crop production activities globally. Streptomyces spp. produce secondary metabolites with diverse structures and biological activities with potential applications in the control of crop disease. This study explored the potential application of wuyiencin, a secondary metabolite of Streptomyces albulus CK-15, to induce defense responses in soybean against S. sclerotiorum. Lesion size was reduced by nearly 60% in wuyiencin-treated soybean plants compared with plants infected with S. sclerotiorum only in greenhouse experiments. Wuyiencin induced callose deposition at 6 h postinoculation and increased reactive-oxygen-scavenging enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase. Moreover, wuyiencin inoculated before S. sclerotiorum infection significantly increased polyphenol oxidase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase, chitinase, and β-1,3-glucanase activity, suggesting their involvement in soybean defense responses to S. sclerotiorum. Further, qRT-PCR results showed expression levels of the hormone signaling markers CO11, MYC2, PR4, PR1, NPR1, and ERF1 were upregulated in infected leaves treated with wuyiencin.
Distribution and Abundance of Nematodes in Horticultural Production in Paraguay
Authors: Lopez-Nicora Horacio D. , Enciso-Maldonado Guillermo Andrés , Caballero-Mairesse Gabriela Giuliana , Sanabria-Velázquez Andres Dejesús , Armandans-Rojas Andrés José , Soilán-Duarte Laura Concepción , Grabowski-Ocampos Cristian Javier , Resquin-Romero Gloria Arminda , Colmán Adans Agustín , Pedrozo-Fleitas Lidia Margarita , Valiente-Raidán Hugo Néstor , Ramírez-Cardozo Francisco Alberto , Ruiz-Zastrow Victor , Cubilla-Andrada Martín Maria
Published: June 2022

In Paraguay, there is no information describing the distribution and abundance of plant-parasitic nematodes and other free-living nematodes from vegetable farms. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence and abundance of plant-parasitic nematodes on vegetable farms, to evaluate the relationship between plant-parasitic nematodes and ecological diversity, and to evaluate the relationship between edaphic factors and nematode communities. Vegetable farms ( n = 217) across nine departments in Paraguay were included in this survey, and soil samples were collected between March and September 2021. More than 10 plant-parasitic nematode genera were identified in this survey and are presented as follows in decreasing order of prevalence: Helicotylenchus (0 to 2,000 nematodes/100 cm3 of soil), Meloidogyne (0 to 4,120), Criconemella (0 to 400), root-related genera in Tylenchidae (0 to 400), Pratylenchus (0 to 280), Tylenchorhynchus (0 to 200), Trichodorus (0 to 40), Rotylenchulus (0 to 1,800), Hoplolaimus (0 to 20), Xiphinema (0 to 80), Scutellonema (0 to 1,000), Criconema (0 to 24), and Hemicycliophora (0 to 20). Meloidogyne was the most abundant nematode on vegetable farms, highlighting the potential threat of this pathogen to horticultural production in Paraguay. Nematodes were separated into five trophic groups depending on their feeding habits. Diversity of trophic groups was estimated using Shannon's diversity index, which was inversely related to plant-parasitic nematodes. Additionally, the relationship between edaphic factors (physical-chemical soil properties) and nematode abundance was evaluated. Soil texture was significantly associated with nematode abundance. This study is a first step to aid local growers in developing sustainable and economic agricultural systems.
Diaphragm pacing implantation in Japan for a patient with cervical spinal cord injury: A case report
Authors: Yokota Kazuya , Masuda Muneaki , Koga Ryuichiro , Uemura Masatoshi , Koga Tadashi , Nakashima Yasuharu , Kawano Osamu , Maeda Takeshi
Published: June 2022

Rationale:

Traumatic cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition leading to respiratory failure that requires permanent mechanical ventilation, which is the main driver of increased medical costs. There is a great demand for establishing therapeutic interventions to treat respiratory dysfunction following severe cervical SCI.

Patient concerns and diagnosis:

We present a 24-year-old man who sustained a cervical displaced C2–C3 fracture with SCI due to a traffic accident. As the patient presented with tetraplegia and difficulty in spontaneous breathing following injury, he was immediately intubated and placed on a ventilator with cervical external fixation by halo orthosis. The patient then underwent open reduction and posterior fusion of the cervical spine 3 weeks after injury. Although the patient showed significant motor recovery of the upper and lower limbs over time, only a slight improvement in lung capacity was observed.

Interventions and outcomes:

At 1.5 years after injury, a diaphragmatic pacing stimulator was surgically implanted to support the patient’s respiratory function. The mechanical ventilator support was successfully withdrawn from the patient 14 weeks after implantation. We observed that both the vital capacity and tidal volume of the patient were significantly promoted following implantation. The patient finally returned to daily life without any mechanical support.

Lessons:

The findings of this report suggest that diaphragmatic pacing implantation could be a promising treatment for improving respiratory function after severe cervical SCI. To our knowledge, this is the first SCI patient treated with a diaphragm pacing implantation covered by official medical insurance in Japan.
Tracheal neurofibroma treated by repeated flexible bronchoscopic cryotherapy: A case report
Authors: Yoo Ji Soo , Choe Yeong Hun , Lee Yong Chul , Kim So Ri
Published: June 2022

Rationale:

Isolated endotracheal neurofibroma is very rare. The majority of neurofibromas are benign, but rarely, they can become cancerous. Furthermore, symptomatic neurofibroma is usually treated by surgical resection. Recently, several alternative options for surgical resection of this airway pathology have been suggested and developed, including bronchoscopic cryotherapy. Nevertheless, there has been no report on the application of repeated flexible bronchoscopic cryotherapy to remove an endotracheal neurofibroma.

Patient concerns:

A 65-year-old woman presented with progressive dyspnea and productive cough. Chest computed tomography scans revealed a 1.5-cm polypoid-shaped mass with fat attenuation and mild enhancement in the distal trachea. Flexible bronchoscopic cryotherapy was performed to remove the mass and confirm the diagnosis.

Diagnosis:

Pathologically, the mass was diagnosed as an endotracheal neurofibroma occupying the distal tracheal lumen.

Interventions:

The endotracheal neurofibroma was completely removed with repeated flexible bronchoscopic cryotherapy instead of surgical resection.

Outcomes:

Follow-up flexible bronchoscopy also revealed that there was no regrowth of the neurofibroma. Up to 18 months after the completion of serial cryotherapy, the patient had no recurrent symptoms or complaints.

Lessons:

Flexible bronchoscopic cryotherapy can be performed repeatedly for therapeutic purposes for airway tumors. It is recommended to consider flexible bronchoscopic cryotherapy as an alternative therapeutic option for patients with central airway obstruction due to tumorous lesions such as neurofibromas.
Interrelationship among thigh intermuscular adipose tissue, cross-sectional area, muscle strength, and functional mobility in older subjects
Authors: Borghi Stefano , Bonato Matteo , La Torre Antonio , Banfi Giuseppe , Vitale Jacopo Antonino
Published: June 2022

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between lower limb strength, muscle mass and composition, and balance ability in elders.

Thirthy-four older participants (Age: 65.6 ± 4.73 years; male = 10 and female = 24) were assessed for muscle strength (maximal isometric strength of knee extensors and one repetition maximum by leg press, the one repetition maximum [1RM]), balance and gait capacity (Mini-BESTest), body composition by whole-body dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (obtaining Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Index, ASMMI), and magnetic resonance imaging of thigh to evaluate Intermuscular Adipose Tissue (IMAT) and muscle Cross Sectional Area (CSA).

Positive correlations between 1RM and ASMMI (rs = 0.64, P < .0001) and thigh CSA (rs = 0.52, P = .0017), but not with thigh IMAT, were found. In addition, significant correlations between knee extensors strength and ASMMI (rs = 0.48, P = .004) and thigh CSA (rs = 0.49, P = .0033) and IMAT (rs = -0.35, P = .043) were observed, whereas no significant correlations between the Mini-BESTest with ASMMI, thigh CSA, and IMAT were observed.

Lower limb strength positively correlated with appendicular muscle mass. Further, the maximal isometric strength of knee extensors negatively correlated with thigh IMAT in elderly patients, whereas the dynamic balance ability did not correlate with any of the morphological variables of the muscle (i.e., ASMMI, CSA, and IMAT). A reduced muscle size and strength could affect movement and reduce physical function in older patients. Improving the composition and size of muscle in elder subjects could reduce frailty and risk of falls.
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the breast: A case report and literature review focused on radiological findings
Authors: Bak Seongjun , Choi Hye Young , Lee Jeong-Hee , Na Jae Beom , Choi Dae Seob , Cho Jae Min , Choi Ho Cheol , Park Mi Jung , Kim Ji Eun , Shin Hwa Seon , Won Jung Ho , Kim Ju-Yeon , Kim Jae-Myung
Published: June 2022

Rationale:

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) of the breast is a rare entity, with an estimated incidence of only 0.2% to 0.3% of all primary breast tumors. The radiological features of breast MEC have scarcely been investigated mainly because of its rarity. In this article, we present a case of breast MEC diagnosed at our hospital and review the literature, focusing on radiological findings and radiologic–pathologic correlations that could improve clinical management of this entity. To the best of our knowledge, our study is the first review of the literature that focuses on the radiological features of breast MEC.

Patient concerns:

A 47-year-old premenopausal woman presented with a painless palpable mass in the right breast.

Diagnosis:

Mammography and ultrasonography revealed a mass with suspicious malignant features, which was categorized as Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System category 4c. A 14-gauge core-needle biopsy revealed an intermediate-grade MEC of the breast. The patient underwent breast magnetic resonance imaging and chest computed tomography for preoperative evaluation. Postoperative histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of intermediate-grade MEC. The clinical staging was T2N0M0.

Interventions:

The patient underwent breast-conserving surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy.

Outcomes:

No evidence of recurrence has been reported over 37 months.

Lessons:

The imaging characteristics of breast MEC were variable, and there were no specific radiological features for diagnosis. The presence of cystic components on radiological imaging is likely to be an indicator of a low-grade tumor and better prognosis, although the number of reported cases is limited.
Oral Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 in the patients with lactational abscess treated by needle aspiration: The late follow-up of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Yi , Gao Yajun , He Xiangping , Ding Songtao , Gao Haifeng
Published: June 2022

Background:

Lactational mastitis and breast abscess cause trouble for women. It has been shown that oral probiotics can improve breast microecology, thus alleviating inflammatory responses. Our study aims to understand the long-term effect of Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 on patients with lactational breast abscess after needle aspiration.

Methods:

Data continued in a randomized controlled study of 101 subjects with lactational abscess from 12 hospitals were included. They were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. After needle aspiration treatment, the experimental group was orally administrated with L fermentum CECT5716 for 4 consecutive weeks, while the control group was treated with maltodextrin in the same way). In the third month after randomized controlled trial, the subjects were followed up by an online questionnaire investigation. The observation indexes included the relief of breast pain, recurrence of mastitis from the end of oral administration to the follow-up, and the effect on continuing breastfeeding.

Results:

A total of 101 patients were enrolled and 83 valid questionnaires were received during follow-up, including 40 in the experimental group and 43 in the control group. The rate of stop breastfeeding due to recurrence of mastitis was 2.5% (1/40) in the experimental group and 18.6% (8/43) in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (odds ratio = 0.112, 95% confidence interval: 0.013–0.942, P < .05). The rate of stop breastfeeding was 10% (4/40) in the experimental group and 25.6% (11/43) in the control group, without significant difference. The pain relief rate in the experimental group was 80% (32/40), which showed no significant difference from that in the control group, that is, 72.1% (31/43). The recurrence rate of mastitis in the experimental group was 20% (8/40), which was not significantly different from that in the control group, that is, 16.3% (7/43).

Conclusions:

In lactating women with a history of breast abscess, oral L fermentum CECT5716 may reduce the risk of stop breastfeeding due to recurrence of mastitis.
Epidemiological and etiological characteristics of viral meningitis for hospitalized pediatric patients in Yunnan, China
Authors: Liu Hongbo , Zhang Haihao , Zhang Ming , Changzeng Feng , Cong Shanri , Xu Danhan , Sun Hao , Yang Zhaoqing , Ma Shaohui
Published: June 2022

Background:

Viral infection is the most common cause of aseptic meningitis. The purpose of this study was to identify the viruses responsible for aseptic meningitis to better understand the clinical presentations of this disease.

Method:

Between March 2009 and February 2010, we collected 297 cerebrospinal fluid specimens from children with aseptic meningitis admitted to a pediatric hospital in Yunnan (China). Viruses were detected by using “in house” real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction or reverse-transcription real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction from these samples. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using the Molecular Evolutionary Genetic Analysis version 7.0 software, with the neighbor-joining method.

Results:

Viral infection was diagnosed in 35 of the 297 children (11.8%). The causative viruses were identified to be enteroviruses in 25 cases (71.4%), varicella-zoster virus in 5 cases (14.3%), herpes simplex virus 1 in 2 cases (5.7%), and herpes simplex virus 2, Epstein–Barr virus, and human herpesvirus 6 in 1 case each (2.9% each). Of the enteroviruses, coxsackievirus B5 was the most frequently detected serotype (10/25 cases; 40.0%) and all coxsackievirus B5 strains belonged to C group.

Conclusions:

In the study, a causative virus was only found in the minority of cases, of them, enteroviruses were the most frequently detected viruses in patients with viral meningitis, followed by varicella-zoster virus and herpes simplex virus. Our findings underscore the need for enhanced surveillance and etiological study of aseptic meningitis.
Diffusion-weighted MR is useful to assess peripheral nerve invasion of soft tissue tumor
Authors: Wu Gang , Liu Liangjin , Mei Zou , Li Xiaoming
Published: June 2022

To investigate the feasibility of readout-segmented diffusion-weighted (rsDW) magnetic resonance (MR) in assessing nerve invasion of soft tissue tumor. Forty-four patients with soft tissue mass in upper leg suspected of nerve invasion underwent rsDW MR. Nerve invasion by tumor was rated by 2 radiologists, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of rsDW MR in identifying nerve invasion were calculated, with operation findings as reference of standard. Apparent diffusion coefficient and fraction of anisotropy of nerve were obtained using DW MR, and then were compared between invaded nerves and noninvasion cases. Inter-reader agreement in using rsDW MR to rate nerve invasion was excellent (kappa = 0.891 ± 0.043, P < 0.001). Sensitivity and specificity of rsDW MR in identifying nerve invasion were 89% and 88%, respectively. Apparent diffusion coefficient was significantly higher in invaded nerves versus normal nerves (1.45 ± 0.67 × 10−3 mm2/s vs 1.39 ± 0.46 × 10−3 mm2/s, P < 0.05). Fraction of anisotropy was significantly lower in invaded nerves versus normal nerves (0.22 ± 0.11 vs 0.37 ± 0.13, P < .05).

Readout-segmented DW MR was feasible in assessing sciatic nerve invasion by soft tissue tumor in selected patients.