bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rural-urban determinants of vitamin a deficiency among under 5 children in Bangladesh: Evidence from National Survey 2017–18
Authors: Hossain Md. Moyazzem , Yeasmin Sabina , Abdulla Faruq , Rahman Azizur
Published: August 2021

Background

Vitamin A supplementation reduces child morbidity, mortality, and blindness of people, especially in developing countries like Bangladesh. This study explores significant determinants of vitamin A deficiency among preschool children in rural and urban areas of Bangladesh.

Methods

The data set was extracted from a nationally representative survey based on a cross-sectional study, the BDHS-2017-18. The base survey was conducted using a two-stage stratified sample of households. A sample of 8364 (urban 2911, rural 5453) children under-5 years old was analyzed using bivariate and multivariate statistical techniques.

Results

Results have demonstrated that 73.9 and 73.2% of children have had a vitamin A supplementation from urban and rural areas, respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that parents’ education plays a vital role in consuming vitamin A supplements in urban and rural areas. Children whose mothers have secondary (OR: 1.17, CI: 0.76–1.81) and higher (OR: 1.21, CI: 0.72–2.04) education were more likely to consume vitamin A supplementation than children whose mothers were illiterate in urban areas. However, in rural areas, children whose mothers have secondary education were about 24% and higher education with 60% more likely to consume vitamin A supplementation than children whose mothers were illiterate. Child’s age, regional variation and wealth index also contributing factors for vitamin A deficiency in Bangladesh.

Conclusions

These findings indicated that the consumption of vitamin A does not cover the target of sustainable development goals. Thus special national and community level efforts are required to ensure the coverage of the national vitamin A program is increased adequately to the most vulnerable groups of children in Bangladesh.
Oral health-related quality of life among a group of patients with substance use disorders in rehabilitation treatment: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Amiri Saeed , Shekarchizadeh Hajar
Published: August 2021

Background

Little is known about the effect of illicit drugs on oral health-related quality of life. Our aim was to investigate oral health-related quality among patients with substance use disorders, and its association with dental caries experience and drug use profile.

Methods

Applying a stratified cluster random sampling method, we conducted a cross-sectional study on 267 in-treatment patients with substance use disorders in Isfahan, Iran in 2016. Self-administered questionnaires requested participants’ demographics and drug use profile. A trained dental student carried out personal interviews utilizing Oral Impact on Daily Performance (OIDP) instrument. Clinical examinations were conducted to record dental caries experience. T test, ANOVA, pearson and spearman correlation coefficient, and linear regression model served for statistical analysis (p < 0.05).

Results

A great majority of the participants reported past use of opium (85%) followed by heroin (42.7%) and amphetamines (20.2%). The most common routes of drug administration were combined routes (44.6%) followed by smoking (36.7%). The mean score of OIDP was 22.4 ± 8.6. As high as 74.1% of the participants reported at least one OIDP impact. The most prevalent OIDP impact was “difficulty eating” (64.8%). The most prevalent cause of the impacts were “dental decay” and “tooth loss”. No significant association revealed between OIDP and patients’ demographics and drug use profile (p > 0.05). Participants with higher caries experience, reported greater OIDP (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

There is an oral impact on the daily performance of patients with substance use disorders. Patients with higher caries experience reported greater OIDP. Thus, in addition to normative assessment of oral health, clinicians should consider the patients’ self-reported oral problems, and the social and mental aspects of oral conditions.
Correction to: Implementing clinical ethics committees as a complex intervention: presentation of a feasibility study in community care
Authors: Magelssen Morten , Karlsen Heidi , Pedersen Reidar , Thoresen Lisbeth
Published: August 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Effectiveness of a long-lasting insecticide treatment kit (ICON® Maxx) for polyester nets over three years of household use: a WHO phase III trial in Tanzania
Authors: Tungu Patrick K. , Sudi Wema , Kisinza William , Rowland Mark
Published: August 2021

Background

ICON® Maxx (Syngenta) is an insecticide treatment kit of pyrethroid and binding agent for long-lasting treatment of mosquito nets. Interim recommendation for use on nets was granted by the World Health Organization (WHO) after successful evaluation in experimental huts following multiple washes. A full WHO recommendation is contingent upon demonstration of continued bio-efficacy after 3 years of use.

Methods

A household-randomized prospective study design was used to assess ICON Maxx-treated nets over 3 years in north-eastern Tanzania. Conventional treated nets (with lambda-cyhalothrin, but without binder) served as a positive control. At 6-monthly intervals, cross-sectional household surveys monitored net use and physical integrity, while cone and tunnel tests assessed insecticidal efficacy. Pyrethroid content was determined after 12 and 36 months. A parallel cohort of nets was monitored annually for evidence of net deterioration and attrition.

Results

After 12 months’ use, 97% of ICON Maxx-treated nets but only 67% of CTN passed the WHO efficacy threshold for insecticidal durability (> 80% mortality in cone or tunnel or 90% feeding inhibition in tunnel). After 24- and 36-months use, 67% and 26% of ICON Maxx treated nets met the cone criteria, respectively, and over 90% met the combined cone and tunnel criteria. Lambda-cyhalothrin content after 36 months was 17% (15.8 ± 4.3 mg/m2) of initial content. ICON Maxx nets were used year-round and washed approximately 4 times per year. In cross-sectional survey after 36 months the average number of holes was 20 and hole index was 740 cm2 per net. Cohort nets had fewer holes and smaller hole index than cross-sectional nets. However, only 15% (40/264) of cohort nets were not lost to follow-up or not worn out after 36 months.

Conclusions

Because more than 80% of nets met the WHO efficacy criteria after 36 months use, ICON Maxx was granted WHO full recommendation. Cross-sectional and cohort surveys were complementary and gave a fuller understanding of net durability. To improve net usage and retention, stronger incentives and health messaging should be introduced in WHO LLIN longitudinal trials. Untreated polyester nets may be made long-lastingly insecticidal in Africa through simple household treatment using ICON Maxx pyrethroid-binder kits.
Using single-cell sequencing technology to detect circulating tumor cells in solid tumors
Authors: Xu Jiasheng , Liao Kaili , Yang Xi , Wu Chengfeng , Wu Wei
Published: August 2021

Circulating tumor cells are tumor cells with high vitality and high metastatic potential that invade and shed into the peripheral blood from primary solid tumors or metastatic foci. Due to the heterogeneity of tumors, it is difficult for high-throughput sequencing analysis of tumor tissues to find the genomic characteristics of low-abundance tumor stem cells. Single-cell sequencing of circulating tumor cells avoids interference from tumor heterogeneity by comparing the differences between single-cell genomes, transcriptomes, and epigenetic groups among circulating tumor cells, primary and metastatic tumors, and metastatic lymph nodes in patients' peripheral blood, providing a new perspective for understanding the biological process of tumors. This article describes the identification, biological characteristics, and single-cell genome-wide variation in circulating tumor cells and summarizes the application of single-cell sequencing technology to tumor typing, metastasis analysis, progression detection, and adjuvant therapy.
A novel NF-κB regulator encoded by circPLCE1 inhibits colorectal carcinoma progression by promoting RPS3 ubiquitin-dependent degradation
Authors: Liang Zhen-xing , Liu Hua-shan , Xiong Li , Yang Xin , Wang Feng-wei , Zeng Zi-wei , He Xiao-wen , Wu Xian-rui , Lan Ping
Published: August 2021

Background

Constitutive activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling plays a key role in the development and progression of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). However, the underlying mechanisms of excessive activation of NF-κB signaling remain largely unknown.

Methods

We used high throughput RNA sequencing to identify differentially expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs) between normal human intestinal epithelial cell lines and CRC cell lines. The identification of protein encoded by circPLCE1 was performed using LC–MS. The function of novel protein was validated in vitro and in vivo by gain or loss of function assays. Mechanistic results were concluded by immunoprecipitation analyses.

Results

A novel protein circPLCE1-411 encoded by circular RNA circPLCE1 was identified as a crucial player in the NF-κB activation of CRC. Mechanistically, circPLCE1-411 promoted the ubiquitin-dependent degradation of the critical NF-κB regulator RPS3 via directly binding the HSP90α/RPS3 complex to facilitate the dissociation of RPS3 from the complex, thereby reducing NF-κB nuclear translocation in CRC cells. Functionally, circPLCE1 inhibited tumor proliferation and metastasis in CRC cells, as well as patient-derived xenograft and orthotopic xenograft tumor models. Clinically, circPLCE1 was downregulated in CRC tissues and correlated with advanced clinical stages and poor survival.

Conclusions

circPLCE1 presents an epigenetic mechanism which disrupts NF-κB nuclear translocation and serves as a novel and promising therapeutic target and prognostic marker.
Age and gender differences in ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expressions in oral epithelial cells
Authors: Peng Jinfeng , Sun Jiwei , Zhao Jiajia , Deng Xuliang , Guo Fengyuan , Chen Lili
Published: August 2021

Background

SARS-CoV-2, which has brought a huge negative impact on the world since the end of 2019, is reported to invade cells using the spike (S) protein to bind to angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) receptors on human cells while the transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) is the key protease that activates the S protein, which greatly facilitates the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into target cells. In our previous study, it was observed that the positive rate of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acids in saliva was higher in male and the elderly COVID-19 patients, suggesting that the susceptibility of oral tissues to SARS-CoV-2 may be related to gender and age. This research aimed to further investigate the SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility in oral tissues and influencing factors from the perspective of ACE2 and TMPRSS2, which were two proteins closely associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

Immunofluorescence was used to find the localization of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in oral mucosal tissues. Transcriptomic sequencing data of several datasets were then collected to analysis the relationship between the expressions of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 with the age and gender of patients. Furthermore, oral tissues from patients with different ages and genders were collected. Immunohistochemistry staining, qRT-PCR and western blot were performed to explore the relationship between expression levels of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 and patient age as well as gender.

Results

The results showed that the two proteins were able to be co-expressed in the epithelial cells of oral tissues, and their expression levels were higher in the relatively elderly group than those in relatively younger group. Male oral epithelial cells exhibited higher level of TMPRSS2.

Conclusions

Our findings comprehensively confirmed the existence of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in oral tissues and clarify the relationship between the expression levels with human age and gender for the first time, providing evidence for possible entry routes of SARS-CoV-2 and the influencing factors of SARS-CoV-2 colonization in oral cavity. Thus, the oral mucosa might be at potential risk of infection by SARS-CoV-2, especially in male or elderly patients. Using saliva to detect the nucleic acids of SARS-CoV-2 may be more accurate for elder male COVID-19 patients.
Outer-context determinants in the sustainment phase of a reimbursement-driven implementation of evidence-based practices in children’s mental health services
Authors: Lui Joyce H. L. , Brookman-Frazee Lauren , Lind Teresa , Le Kenny , Roesch Scott , Aarons Gregory A. , Innes-Gomberg Debbie , Pesanti Keri , Lau Anna S.
Published: August 2021

Background

Although there is increasing investment to implement evidence-based practices (EBPs) in public systems across the USA, continued or sustained use of EBPs after initial implementation remains a challenge. The low integration of EBPs in routine practice severely limits their public health impact, highlighting the need to understand factors that affect the return on costly investments in EBP implementation. This study aims to (1) characterize trajectories of EBP delivery volume through a reimbursement-driven implementation and (2) examine impacts of system-level policy regulatory activity and state-level mental health services funding on the implementation reimbursement strategy.

Methods

This study involved secondary data analyses. Psychotherapy administrative claims and regulatory site visit data from the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health and California state mental health expenditures were extracted from 2010 to 2017. Multilevel regression examined EBP claims volume over time with state expenditures and regulatory compliance as predictors.

Results

EBP claims volume trajectories demonstrated a rapid initial increase, followed by a period of decrease, and a small increase in the final year. State mental health expenditures increased across time reflecting increased funding availability. State mental health expenditures and system regulatory compliance were inversely related to EBP claims volume.

Conclusions

The impact of reimbursement-driven EBP implementation strategy is sensitive to multiple outer-context determinants. At the system level, commitment to fidelity of implementation regulations resulted in reduced use of the reimbursement strategy. Alternative reimbursement streams not tied to EBPs coupled with an expanded array of reimbursable services also impacted the use of the reimbursement strategy to implement EBPs.
Development of a model for fibroblast-led collective migration from breast cancer cell spheroids to study radiation effects on invasiveness
Authors: Mei Jia , Böhland Claudia , Geiger Anika , Baur Iris , Berner Kristina , Heuer Steffen , Liu Xue , Mataite Laura , Melo-Narváez M. Camila , Özkaya Erdem , Rupp Anna , Siebenwirth Christian , Thoma Felix , Kling Matthias F. , Friedl Anna A.
Published: August 2021

Background

Invasiveness is a major factor contributing to metastasis of tumour cells. Given the broad variety and plasticity of invasion mechanisms, assessing potential metastasis-promoting effects of irradiation for specific mechanisms is important for further understanding of potential adverse effects of radiotherapy. In fibroblast-led invasion mechanisms, fibroblasts produce tracks in the extracellular matrix in which cancer cells with epithelial traits can follow. So far, the influence of irradiation on this type of invasion mechanisms has not been assessed.

Methods

By matrix-embedding coculture spheroids consisting of breast cancer cells (MCF-7, BT474) and normal fibroblasts, we established a model for fibroblast-led invasion. To demonstrate applicability of this model, spheroid growth and invasion behaviour after irradiation with 5 Gy were investigated by microscopy and image analysis.

Results

When not embedded, irradiation caused a significant growth delay in the spheroids. When irradiating the spheroids with 5 Gy before embedding, we find comparable maximum migration distance in fibroblast monoculture and in coculture samples as seen in unirradiated samples. Depending on the fibroblast strain, the number of invading cells remained constant or was reduced.

Conclusion

In this spheroid model and with the cell lines and fibroblast strains used, irradiation does not have a major invasion-promoting effect. 3D analysis of invasiveness allows to uncouple effects on invading cell number and maximum invasion distance when assessing radiation effects.
Correction to: Flavagline analog FL3 induces cell cycle arrest in urothelial carcinoma cell of the bladder by inhibiting the Akt/PHB interaction to activate the GADD45α pathway
Authors: Yuan Gangjun , Chen Xin , Liu Zhuowei , Wei Wensu , Shu Qinghai , Abou-Hamdan Hussein , Jiang Lijuan , Li Xiangdong , Chen Rixin , Désaubry Laurent , Zhou Fangjian , Xie Dan
Published: August 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
MultiK: an automated tool to determine optimal cluster numbers in single-cell RNA sequencing data
Authors: Liu Siyao , Thennavan Aatish , Garay Joseph P. , Marron J. S. , Perou Charles M.
Published: August 2021

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) provides new opportunities to characterize cell populations, typically accomplished through some type of clustering analysis. Estimation of the optimal cluster number (K) is a crucial step but often ignored. Our approach improves most current scRNA-seq cluster methods by providing an objective estimation of the number of groups using a multi-resolution perspective. MultiK is a tool for objective selection of insightfulKsand achieves high robustness through a consensus clustering approach. We demonstrate that MultiK identifies reproducible groups in scRNA-seq data, thus providing an objective means to estimating the number of possible groups or cell-type populations present.
Easy-Prime: a machine learning–based prime editor design tool
Authors: Li Yichao , Chen Jingjing , Tsai Shengdar Q. , Cheng Yong
Published: August 2021

Prime editing is a revolutionary genome-editing technology that can make a wide range of precise edits in DNA. However, designing highly efficient prime editors (PEs) remains challenging. We develop Easy-Prime, a machine learning–based program trained with multiple published data sources. Easy-Prime captures both known and novel features, such as RNA folding structure, and optimizes feature combinations to improve editing efficiency. We provide optimized PE design for installation of 89.5% of 152,351 GWAS variants. Easy-Prime is available both as a command line tool and an interactive PE design server at:http://easy-prime.cc/.
The Spinal Cord Injury Program in Exercise (SCIPE) study: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial evaluating teleexercise programs for people with spinal cord injury
Authors: Young Hui-Ju , Mehta Tapan , Kim Yumi , Padalabalanarayanan Sangeetha , Chiu Chia-Ying , Rimmer James H. , Thirumalai Mohanraj
Published: August 2021

Background

Many people with spinal cord injury (SCI) have limited access to tailored, readily available exercise resources. As a result, exercise remains an underutilized treatment strategy for improving health and function in people with SCI. The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of two remotely delivered exercise programs for people with SCI.

Methods

The Spinal Cord Injury Program in Exercise (SCIPE) study is a three-arm adaptive randomized controlled trial examining two 8-week teleexercise interventions: Movement-to-Music (M2M) and Standard Exercise Training (SET), compared to Attention Control (AC) in 327 adults with SCI. The primary outcome is change in physical activity level at post 8-week intervention. The study contains two interim analyses. The first interim analysis will assess feasibility metrics of the protocol after 36 participants complete the 8-week intervention period. The second interim analysis will examine two effectiveness comparisons: SET vs. AC and M2M vs AC, after 165 participants complete the intervention period. Early termination of the intervention arm(s) will take place when non-significant findings are found in the corresponding intervention(s). Incorporation of such interim analysis enhances trial efficiency by dropping the intervention(s) that deemed ineffective. It provides ethical benefits and allows allocation of additional resources to explore the effective intervention(s).

Discussion

Delivery of teleexercise programs may be an effective strategy for addressing transportation barrier to exercise resources and increasing physical activity level and quality of life in people with SCI.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03925077. Registered trial name: Spinal Cord Injury Program in Exercise (SCIPE). Registered on April 23rd, 2019.
Feasibility and implementation of a personalized, web-based exercise intervention for people with cystic fibrosis for 1 year
Authors: Hillen Barlo , Simon Perikles , Schlotter Sebastian , Nitsche Oliver , Bähner Viola , Poplawska Krystyna , Pfirrmann Daniel
Published: August 2021

Background

Regular participation in exercise is important for people with cystic fibrosis (CF). Therefore, we implemented a personalized, web-based exercise intervention over the course of one year for people with CF. The aims were to investigate the feasibility of the intervention and to evaluate changes in exercise participation, lung function, and exercise capacity.

Methods

In total, 11/17 participants [aged 12–52 years; FEV1%pred. 72.3 (SD: 17.3)] were included in the final data analysis. Every week, the participants received an individual training recommendation at the start and uploaded their training report on our website at the end of each week. The number of training minutes and sessions performed were analyzed over 13 four-week training sections. The participation in exercise (physical activity questionnaire), lung function and exercise capacity were assessed at baseline (T0), after 12 weeks (T1) and after 52 weeks (T2).

Results

A training duration of 178 min (SD: 75.5) and 3.3 (SD: 0.89) training sessions could be achieved weekly. In the first four-week training section, the participants performed 137.31 (SD: 95.7) minutes of training, with an increase of 42% in the third training section (195.01, SD: 134.99). Minutes of training reported on the questionnaire increased by 39.7% from T0 (179.38 min, SD: 120.9) to T1 (250.63 min, SD: 124.1) but decreased at T2 (166.88, SD: 155.4). There were slight decreases in lung function (FEV1− 3.9%pred.; FVC − 1.9%pred.) and slight increases in exercise capacity (VO2peak + 1.5 ml/min/kg; six-minute-walk-test-distance + 26 m). Noticeably, five participants experienced deteriorations in their FEV1of more than 5% but simultaneously experienced improvements in the parameters of exercise capacity of more than 5% throughout the year.

Conclusions

The web-based concept was feasible for the participants over the course of a year and supported exercise participation. The improvement in exercise capacity due to increased exercise participation over a prolonged period of time, despite a decrease in lung function, should be further investigated. Finally, if integrated into usual care, this approach could facilitate the prescription of regular personalized exercise and promote exercise participation in the daily lives of people with CF.
Mutual regulation between chicken telomerase reverse transcriptase and the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway inhibits apoptosis and promotes the replication of ALV-J in LMH cells
Authors: Xiang Yong , Yu Yun , Li Qingbo , Jiang Zeng , Li Jinqun , Liang Canxin , Chen Jian , Li Yu , Chen Xiaoyan , Cao Weisheng
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to explore the mutual regulation between chicken telomerase reverse transcriptase (chTERT) and the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway and its effects on cell growth and avian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV-J) replication in LMH cells. First, LMH cells stably overexpressing the chTERT gene (LMH-chTERT cells) and corresponding control cells (LMH-NC cells) were successfully constructed with a lentiviral vector expression system. The results showed that chTERT upregulated the expression of β-catenin, Cyclin D1, TCF4 and c-Myc. chTERT expression level and telomerase activity were increased when cells were treated with LiCl. When the cells were treated with ICG001 or IWP-2, the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway was significantly inhibited, and chTERT expression and telomerase activity were also inhibited. However, when the β-catenin gene was knocked down by small interfering RNA (siRNA), the changes in chTERT expression and telomerase activity were consistent with those in cells treated with ICG001 or IWP-2. These results indicated that chTERT and the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway can be mutually regulated. Subsequently, we found that chTERT not only shortened the cell cycle to promote proliferation but also inhibited apoptosis by downregulating the expression of Caspase 3, Caspase 9 and BAX; upregulating BCL-2 and BCL-X expression; and promoting autophagy. Moreover, chTERT significantly enhanced the migration ability of LMH cells, upregulated the protein and mRNA expression of ALV-J and increased the virus titre. ALV-J replication promoted chTERT expression and telomerase activity.
Special function form exact solutions for Jeffery fluid: an application of power law kernel
Authors: Asgir Maryam , Zafar A. A. , Alsharif Abdullah M. , Riaz Muhammad Bilal , Abbas Muhammad
Published: August 2021

This research note’s objective is to elaborate on the study of the unsteady MHD natural convective flow of the Jeffery fluid with the fractional derivative model. The fluid flow phenomenon happens between two vertical parallel plates immersed in a porous medium. The one plate is moving with the time-dependent velocity$U_{0} f(t)$U0f(t), while the other is fixed. The mathematical model is presented with the system of the partial differential equation along with physical conditions. Appropriate dimensionless variables are employed in the system of equations, and then this dimensionless model is transformed into the Caputo fractional-order model and solved analytically by the Laplace transform. The exact expressions for velocity and temperature, which satisfy the imposed initial and boundary conditions, are obtained. Memory effects in the fluid are observed which the classical model fails to elaborate. Interesting results are revealed from the investigation of emerging parameters as Grashof number, Prandtl number, relaxation time parameter, Jeffery fluid parameter, Hartmann number, porosity, and fractional parameter. The results are elucidated with the detailed discussion and the assistance of the graphs. For the sake of validation of results, the corresponding solutions for viscous fluids are also obtained and compared with the solutions already existing in the literature.
Boundary value problems for local and nonlocal Liouville type equations with several exponential type nonlinearities. Radial and nonradial solutions
Authors: Slavova Angela , Popivanov Petar
Published: August 2021

This paper deals with boundary value problems for local and nonlocal Laplace operator in 2D with exponential nonlinearities, the so-called Liouville type equations. They include the mean field equation and other equations arising in the statistical mechanics. Existence results into an explicit form for the Dirichlet problem in the unit disc $B_{1} \subset {\mathbf{R}}^{2} $

B
1

⊂

R
2

and in the participation of positive parameters in the right-hand sides are proved in Theorems 2 and 3. Theorem 2 is illustrated by several examples including an application to the differential geometry. In Theorem 4 global radial solution of the Cauchy problem with constant data at $\partial B_{1} $
∂

B
1

and under appropriate conditions is constructed. It develops logarithmic singularities for $r = 0 $
r
=
0
, $r = \infty $
r
=
∞
. An illustrative example to Theorem 4 in the case of two exponents is given at the end of the paper.
Fractional optimal control of COVID-19 pandemic model with generalized Mittag-Leffler function
Authors: Khan Amir , Zarin Rahat , Humphries Usa Wannasingha , Akgül Ali , Saeed Anwar , Gul Taza
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we consider a fractional COVID-19 epidemic model with a convex incidence rate. The Atangana–Baleanu fractional operator in the Caputo sense is taken into account. We establish the equilibrium points, basic reproduction number, and local stability at both the equilibrium points. The existence and uniqueness of the solution are proved by using Banach and Leray–Schauder alternative type theorems. For the fractional numerical simulations, we use the Toufik–Atangana scheme. Optimal control analysis is carried out to minimize the infection and maximize the susceptible people.
Multi-isotope signatures (Cu, Zn, Pb) of different particle sizes in road-deposited sediments: a case study from industrial area
Authors: Jeong Hyeryeong , Ra Kongtae
Published: August 2021

Road-deposited sediments (RDS) are major sources of heavy metal contamination in urban areas and adversely affect surrounding environments and human health. Multi-isotope combinations (Cu, Zn, and Pb), which serve as environmental tracers, enable the identification and management of metal contaminants in RDS. Here, we present Cu, Zn, and Pb isotopic data for the first time in size-fractionated RDS samples collected from industrial areas to describe the relationship between the RDS and total suspended solids (TSS) in runoff, and to explore the feasibility of using multi-isotopes to identify sources of metal contamination. RDS in the industrial study areas had high concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Pb, and their δ65CuAE647, δ66ZnIRMM3702, and 206Pb/207Pb values ranged from − 0.33 to + 0.73‰, − 0.36 to + 0.01‰, and 1.1418 to 1.1616, respectively. The variation in δ65CuAE647 (δ65Cumax-min) was larger than that of δ66ZnIRMM3702 (i.e., δ66Znmax-min), and the isotope values of Zn and Pb (206Pb/207Pb) tended to increase with the concentrations of these elements. Meanwhile, the fine RDS particles (< 63 µm) had similar Cu, Zn, and Pb isotopic compositions to those of TSS. Hierarchical cluster analyses revealed that the < 63 µm RDS fractions were associated with the TSS. Our results also showed that a combination of Pb and either Cu or Zn could be used to distinguish between RDS and non-exhaust emissions (e.g., brake pads, tires, etc.). Multi-isotope approaches utilizing Cu, Zn, and Pb and more robust isotopic data on individual sources of metal contamination could be useful for identifying pollution sources and understanding their environmental impacts.
Orthobiologics and hyaluronic acid usage in the Netherlands: an electronic survey of 265 orthopaedic surgeons and sports physicians
Authors: de Graeff J. J. , van den Bekerom M. P. J. , van Meer B. L. , Zijl J. A. C. ,   On behalf of the Dutch Arthroscopy Society
Published: August 2021

Purpose

“Biologic therapies” in the field of orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine, so called orthobiologics, have been gaining significant interest from physicians and patients, with increasing usage over the recent years. The aim of this study is to (1) evaluate the usage of orthobiologics in the Netherlands, (2) to clarify the reasons for the use or non-use of orthobiologics, and (3) the most addressed disease for use of orthobiologics.

Methods

The authors created a 19-quenstion online survey comprised of both closed-ended and open-ended response questions in order to examine the use of and the indication for orthobiologics. The survey was sent to all the members of the Dutch Orthopaedic Association and Netherlands Association of Sports Medicine of which 15% responded.

Results

The majority of the 265 respondents (65%) did not treat patients with or refer patients for treatment with orthobiologics. The most important reasons for not using orthobiologics were the lack of scientific evidence, the lack of good experience, and the lack of insurance coverage. Of the physicians that used orthobiologics, the most used hyaluronic acid (76%) and platelet-rich plasma (27%). Orthobiologics were most used for knee osteoarthritis and medial or lateral epicondylitis.

Conclusion

Although some orthobiologic treatments might be effective and the research interest is growing, our study shows that the majority of orthopaedic and sport physician clinicians in the Netherlands still does not make use of orthobiologics as a treatment option, but almost a third of them is contemplating to start using orthobiologics.

Level of evidence

III.
Laparoscopic resection of schwannoma in the hepatoduodenal ligament: a case report
Authors: Bekki Tomoaki , Oishi Koichi , Tadokoro Takeshi , Namba Yosuke , Okimoto Sho , Mukai Shoichiro , Saito Yasufumi , Fujisaki Seiji , Nishida Toshihiro , Ohdan Hideki , Fukuda Toshikatsu
Published: August 2021

Background

The occurrence of schwannomas in the hepatoduodenal ligament is rare, and its preoperative accurate diagnosis is difficult. Only few cases have been treated with laparoscopic surgery.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old man visited our hospital following abnormal abdominal computed tomography findings. He had no complaints, and his laboratory investigations were normal. Abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a tumor with enhancement at the margin of the hepatoduodenal ligament. The abdominal magnetic resonance imaging findings of the tumor showed hypointensity on the T1-weighted images and mixed hypointensity and hyperintensity on the T2-weighted fat-suppression images. Positron emission tomography showed localized accumulation of fludeoxyglucose only in the hepatoduodenal ligament tumor. The patient underwent laparoscopic tumor resection for accurate diagnosis. Histopathologically, the tumor was mainly composed of spindle cells, which were strongly positive for S-100 protein on immunohistochemical staining. The patient was discharged without any postoperative complications on day 5.

Conclusions

Complete tumor resection is essential for schwannomas to avoid recurrence. Laparoscopic surgery is useful for schwannomas occurring in the hepatoduodenal ligament and can be performed safely by devising an appropriate surgical method.
Radiating pain during epidural needle insertion and catheter placement cannot be associated with postoperative persistent paresthesia: a retrospective review
Authors: Kotani Taichi , Inoue Satoki , Uemura Keiko , Kawaguchi Masahiko
Published: August 2021

Background

It has been suggested that radiating pain during spinal or epidural needle insertion and catheter placement can be an indicator of needle-related nerve injury. In this study, using a historical cohort, we investigated what factors could be associated with postoperative persistent paresthesia. In addition, we focused on radiating pain during epidural needle insertion and catheterization.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of an institutional registry containing 21,606 anesthesia cases. We conducted multivariate logistic analysis in 2736 patients, who underwent epidural anesthesia, using the incidence of postoperative persistent paresthesia as a dependent variable and other covariates, including items of the anesthesia registry and the postoperative questionnaire, as independent variables in order to investigate the factors that were significantly associated with the risk of persistent paresthesia.

Results

One hundred and seventy-six patients (6.44%) were found to have persistent paresthesia. Multivariate analysis revealed that surgical site at the extremities (odds ratio (OR), 12.5; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.77–56.4; the reference was set at abdominal surgery), duration of general anesthesia (per 10 min) (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01–1.03), postoperative headache (OR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.04–2.95), and days taken to visit the consultation clinic (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01–1.06) were independently associated with persistent paresthesia. Radiating pain was not significantly associated with persistent paresthesia (OR, 1.56; 95% CI, 0.69–3.54).

Conclusion

Radiating pain during epidural procedure was not statistically significantly associated with persistent paresthesia, which may imply that this radiating pain worked as a warning of nerve injury.
Innovative design of 3D-printed nasopharyngeal pediatric swab for COVID-19 detection
Authors: Alazemi Ameerah , AbdulHussain Ghadeer , Alawwam Abdullah , Al-Shatti Ali , Alghounaim Mohammad , Almazeedi Sulaiman , Al Youha Sarah , Al-Sabah Salman
Published: August 2021

3-dimensional (3D) printing technology provides a solution to meet the high demand for producing adult nasal swabs. A smaller, more flexible nasopharyngeal swab needs to be developed for children and infants suspected of having coronavirus. The information shared here presents a novel 3D-printed pediatric swab for the purpose of collecting upper respiratory clinical specimens.
Let us do better: learning lessons for recovery of healthcare professionals during and after COVID-19
Authors: Murray Esther , Kaufman Kenneth R. , Williams Richard
Published: August 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic emphasises the need to rethink and restructure the culture of healthcare organisations if we are to ensure the long-term well-being and mental health of healthcare provider organisations and their staff. In this paper, we recognise the high levels of stress and distress among staff of healthcare services before the COVID-19 pandemic began. We identify lessons for care of healthcare staff and illustrate the paths by which support mobilises and later deteriorates. Although this paper focuses on NHS staff in the UK, we contend that similar effects are likely in most healthcare systems.
Association of severe mental illness with stroke outcomes and process-of-care quality indicators: nationwide cohort study
Authors: Fleetwood Kelly , Wild Sarah H. , Smith Daniel J. , Mercer Stewart W. , Licence Kirsty , Sudlow Cathie L. M. , Jackson Caroline A.
Published: August 2021

Background

Severe mental illness (SMI) is associated with increased stroke risk, but little is known about how SMI relates to stroke prognosis and receipt of acute care.

Aims

To determine the association between SMI and stroke outcomes and receipt of process-of-care quality indicators (such as timely admission to stroke unit).

Method

We conducted a cohort study using routinely collected linked data-sets, including adults with a first hospital admission for stroke in Scotland during 1991–2014, with process-of-care quality indicator data available from 2010. We identified pre-existing schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression from hospital records. We used logistic regression to evaluate 30-day, 1-year and 5-year mortality and receipt of process-of-care quality indicators by pre-existing SMI, adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical factors. We used Cox regression to evaluate further stroke and vascular events (stroke and myocardial infarction).

Results

Among 228 699 patients who had had a stroke, 1186 (0.5%), 859 (0.4%), 7308 (3.2%) had schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression, respectively. Overall, median follow-up was 2.6 years. Compared with adults without a record of mental illness, 30-day mortality was higher for schizophrenia (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.33, 95% CI 1.16–1.52), bipolar disorder (aOR = 1.37, 95% CI 1.18–1.60) and major depression (aOR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.05–1.18). Each disorder was also associated with marked increased risk of 1-year and 5-year mortality and further stroke and vascular events. There were no clear differences in receipt of process-of-care quality indicators.

Conclusions

Pre-existing SMI was associated with higher risks of mortality and further vascular events. Urgent action is needed to better understand and address the reasons for these disparities.
Next-Generation Sequencing of Patients With Breast Cancer in Community Oncology Clinics
Authors: Sturgill Emma G. , Misch Amanda , Lachs Rebecca , Jones Carissa C. , Schlauch Dan , Jones Suzanne F. , Shastry Mythili , Yardley Denise A. , Burris Howard A. , Spigel David R. , Hamilton Erika P. , McKenzie Andrew J.
Published: August 2021

PURPOSE

Molecular biomarkers informing disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decisions in patients with breast cancer are being uncovered by next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. In this study, we survey how NGS is used for patients with breast cancer in real-world settings with a focus on physician behaviors and sequencing results.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with breast cancer who received NGS testing from commercial vendors as part of standard of care from 2014 to 2019. A total of 2,635 NGS reports from 2,316 unique breast cancer patients were assessed. Hormone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 statuses were abstracted from patient medical records. Comparative gene amplification and mutation frequencies were analyzed using Pearson's correlation and Lin's concordance statistics.

RESULTS

The number of physicians ordering NGS tests for patients with breast cancer increased more than six-fold from 2014 to 2019. Tissue- and plasma-based tests were ordered roughly equally by 2019, with plasma-based testing ordered most frequently in hormone receptor–positive subtypes. Patients with triple-negative breast cancer were most likely to receive NGS testing. Gene amplifications including ERBB2 were detected less frequently in our real-world data set as compared to previous genomic landscape studies, whereas the opposite was true for gene mutations including ESR1. Pathogenic mutations in the PI3K pathway (38.6%) and DNA damage repair pathway (11.0%) were frequently reported. Alterations were also reported across other cellular pathways.

CONCLUSION

Overall, we found that an increasing number of physicians in community settings are adopting NGS in the care of patients with breast cancer. Discrepancies between our real-world NGS data and previous genomic landscape studies are likely owed to the prevalence of plasma-based testing in community oncology clinics, as the reference data were from tissue-based NGS alone.
Breast Cancer Endocrine Therapy Promotes Weight Gain With Distinct Adipose Tissue Effects in Lean and Obese Female Mice
Authors: Scalzo Rebecca L , Foright Rebecca M , Hull Sara E , Knaub Leslie A , Johnson-Murguia Stevi , Kinanee Fotobari , Kaplan Jeffrey , Houck Julie A , Johnson Ginger , Sharp Rachel R , Gillen Austin E , Jones Kenneth L , Zhang Anni M Y , Johnson James D , MacLean Paul S , Reusch Jane E B , Wright-Hobart Sabrina , Wellberg Elizabeth A
Published: August 2021

Breast cancer survivors treated with tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors report weight gain and have an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes, especially if they have obesity. These patient experiences are inconsistent with, preclinical studies using high doses of tamoxifen which reported acute weight loss. We investigated the impact of breast cancer endocrine therapies in a preclinical model of obesity and in a small group of breast adipose tissue samples from women taking tamoxifen to understand the clinical findings. Mature female mice were housed at thermoneutrality and fed either a low-fat/low-sucrose (LFLS) or a high-fat/high-sucrose (HFHS) diet. Consistent with the high expression of Esr1 observed in mesenchymal stem cells from adipose tissue, endocrine therapy was associated with adipose accumulation and more preadipocytes compared with estrogen-treated control mice but resulted in fewer adipocyte progenitors only in the context of HFHS. Analysis of subcutaneous adipose stromal cells revealed diet- and treatment-dependent effects of endocrine therapies on various cell types and genes, illustrating the complexity of adipose tissue estrogen receptor signaling. Breast cancer therapies supported adipocyte hypertrophy and associated with hepatic steatosis, hyperinsulinemia, and glucose intolerance, particularly in obese females. Current tamoxifen use associated with larger breast adipocyte diameter only in women with obesity. Our translational studies suggest that endocrine therapies may disrupt adipocyte progenitors and support adipocyte hypertrophy, potentially leading to ectopic lipid deposition that may be linked to a greater type 2 diabetes risk. Monitoring glucose tolerance and potential interventions that target insulin action should be considered for some women receiving life-saving endocrine therapies for breast cancer.
Online Dating Is Shifting Educational Inequalities in Marriage Formation in Germany
Authors: Potarca Gina
Published: August 2021

Digital technologies govern a large part of our social lives, including the pursuit of a romantic partner. Despite recent inquiries into the social consequences of meeting online, what remains unclear is how the link between education and union formation varies in online versus offline meeting contexts, particularly on the backdrop of growing educational gaps in marriage. Using 2008–2019 pairfam data from Germany (N = 3,561), this study ran a series of Fine-Gray competing risks models to assess how online dating shapes the transition to marriage for partnered adults with nontertiary and tertiary education. Results reveal that irrespective of education, men in online-formed couples had greater chances of marrying than men in couples established offline. Highly educated women who met their partner in nondigital ways were less prone to marry than lower-educated women; for women in couples initiated online, however, the pattern was reversed. The internet dating marriage advantage of well-educated women was partly related to better matching on marriage attitudes and gender ideology. Facing a scarcity of eligible partners offline, high-educated women draw on more abundant online options to select more egalitarian-minded men. This study overall suggests that internet dating fosters an uneven distribution of opportunities for marriage, highlighting the role of digital partner markets in the social demography of union formation.
Nucleoporin 50 mediates Kcna4 transcription to regulate cardiac electrical activity
Authors: Gao Xueting , Yu Shuai , Guan Yi , Shen Yunli , Xu Liang
Published: August 2021

Emerging evidence has demonstrated that nucleoporins (Nups) play a pivotal role in cell-type-specific gene regulation, but how they control the expression and activity of ion channel genes in the heart remains unclear. Here, we show that Nup50, which is localized in the nucleus of cardiomyocytes, selectively induces an increase in the transcription and translation of Kcna4. The Kcna4 gene encodes a K+ voltage-gated channel of shaker-related subfamily member 4 and is essential for regulating the action potential in cardiac membranes. Using immunofluorescence imaging, luciferase assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, we identified that the direct binding of the FG-repeat domain within Nup50 to the proximity of the Kcna4 promoter was required to activate the transcription and subsequent translation of Kcna4. Functionally, Nup50 overexpression increased the currents of KCNA4-encoded Ito,s channels, and reverse knockdown of Nup50 resulted in a remarkable decrease in the amplitude of Ito,s currents in cardiomyocytes. Moreover, a positive correlation between Nup50 and Kcna4 mRNA and protein expression was observed in heart tissues subjected to ischemic insults. These findings provide insights into the homeostatic control of cardiac electrophysiology through Nup-mediated regulation.