bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Disorders of Penile Development in Humans
Authors: Gaspari Laura , Tessier Benoit , Paris Françoise , Bergougnoux Anne , Hamamah Samir , Sultan Charles , Kalfa Nicolas
Published: August 2021

This paper reviews the current knowledge on the environmental effects on penile development in humans. The specific focus is on endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), a heterogeneous group of natural or manmade substances that interfere with endocrine function, and whether they can induce hypospadias and micropenis in male neonates. Epidemiological data and animal observations first raised suspicions about environmental effects, leading to the testis dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) hypothesis. More recent research has provided stronger indications that TDS may indeed be the result of the direct or indirect effects of EDCs. Drawing on epidemiological and toxicological studies, we also report on the effects of maternal diet and substances like pesticides, phthalates, bisphenol A, and polychlorinated biphenyls. Proximity to contamination hazards and occupational exposure are also suspected to contribute to the occurrence of hypospadias and micropenis. Lastly, the cumulative effects of EDCs and the possibility of transgenerational effects, with the penile development of subsequent generations being affected, raise concerns for long-term public health.
Impact of First Wave COVID-19 Crisis on Dialysis Parameters of COVID-Free Hemodialysis Patients: A NephoCare France Longitudinal Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chazot Charles , Weis Lise , Hebibi Hadia , Jean Guillaume , Deleuze Sebastien , Levannier Martial , Attaf David , Stuard Stefano
Published: August 2021

Background: Chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients are at high risk of severe COVID-19 with a high risk of death. The organization of dialysis units to treat chronic HD patients with COVID-19 is demanding to prevent virus transmission both in COVID-free patients and the staff. These constraints may have an impact on the dialysis delivery to COVID-free HD patients. We report our experience in French NephroCare (NC) centers. Methods: We report retrospectively dialysis and nutritional indicators among COVID-free prevalent chronic HD patients’ cohort treated in French NC units from February 2020 to April 2020. The COVID-free HD patients were split into 2 subgroups for the analysis, Paris region and other regions because the incidence of COVID-19 was different according to the French regions. Results: The Paris region was the most impacted by COVID-19 with 73% of all the contaminations that occurred in French NC units (n = 118). The dialysis frequency was not reduced all over the NC regions. 2,110 COVID-free HD patients were split into 2 subgroups including Paris region (748 patients) and other regions (1,362 patients). The weekly treatment time decreased significantly in Paris region from February to April (723–696 min [p < 0.00001]) but remained stable in the other regions. The processed blood volume, KT/V, and convective volume declined significantly in the Paris region subgroup but not in other regions. The 3-month weight loss significantly increased in the whole group of patients whatever the region from 0.0 to 0.2% between February 2020 and April 2020 (p < 0.00001). Ultrafiltration rate (UFR) and the normalized proteic catabolic rate remained stable all along the period. The stepwise regression analysis identified February serum albumin level and April UFR as negatively associated with 3-month weight loss. Conclusion: HD delivery to COVID-free HD patients was negatively impacted in the Paris region because of the strong constraints on units’ organization related to the treatment of COVID-19+ HD patients and with a higher proportion of limited care/self-care units with less staff resources. The 3-month weight loss increase may be related to the suppression of intradialytic snack that impacted mostly the more malnourished patients or patients with lower interdialytic weight gain. These consequences of the COVID-19 crisis on COVID-free HD patients must be recognized and corrected to prevent further deleterious effects on patients’ outcomes.
Gene Ontology Enrichment Analysis of Renal Agenesis: Improving Prenatal Molecular Diagnosis
Authors: Kalantari Silvia , Filges Isabel
Published: August 2021

Uni- or bilateral renal agenesis (RA) is a commonly occurring major congenital anomaly impacting fetal and neonatal outcomes. Since the etiology is highly heterogeneous, our aim was to provide a logically structured approach by highlighting the genes in which variants have been identified to be associated with RA and to define the pathways involved in this type of abnormal kidney development. We used Phenolyzer to collect a list of all the genes known as causative for RA. Using ClueGO gene enrichment analysis, we classified the relationship between these genes and the biological processes defined by gene ontology. We identified 287 genes and 69 groups of enriched biological processes. About 50% included pathways directly related to the development of urogenital organ tissues. Several ciliary, axis specification, hindgut development, and endocrine pathways were enriched, which may relate to different clinical presentations of RA. Our gene ontology enrichment analysis shows that genes representing distinct biological pathways are significantly enriched. This knowledge will lead to an improved molecular diagnosis in clinical care when applying genome-wide sequencing approaches. The findings will also allow to further study the biological pathways involved in RA and to identify novel candidate genes and pathways.
Prognostic Impact of Trial-Eligibility Criteria in Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ishihara Hiroki , Tachibana Hidekazu , Fukuda Hironori , Yoshida Kazuhiko , Kobayashi Hirohito , Takagi Toshio , Iizuka Junpei , Ishida Hideki , Kondo Tsunenori , Tanabe Kazunari
Published: August 2021

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of trial-eligibility criteria on outcome in real-world metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) patients treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Patients and Methods: mRCC patients treated with TKIs as first-line systemic therapy were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were determined as trial-ineligible when they met at least 1 following trial-ineligible criteria; Karnofsky performance status score <70, hemoglobin <9.0 g/dL, creatinine >2.4 mg/dL (male) or >2.0 mg/dL (female), calcium >12.0 mg/dL, platelet <100,000 /μL, neutrophil <1,500 /μL, nonclear-cell histology, and brain metastasis. Results: Of 238 patients, 101 patients (42%) were determined as trial-ineligible. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) after the TKI initiation were significantly shorter in the trial-ineligible patients than in the trial-eligible patients (median PFS: 5.53 vs. 15.8 months, p < 0.0001; OS: 13.8 vs. 43.4 months, p < 0.0001). Objective response rate was also significantly lower in the trial-ineligible patients (15% vs. 37%, p = 0.0003). Multivariate analysis further showed that the trial-eligibility was an independent factor for PFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.46, p < 0.0001) and OS (HR: 2.39, p < 0.0001). In addition, the number of trial-ineligible factors were negatively correlated with PFS and OS. Conclusions: In real-word, the substantial number of mRCC patients did not meet the trial-eligibility criteria, and their outcome was worse than that in the trial-eligible patients. Further studies focusing on the outcome in real-world trial-ineligible patients in the immune checkpoint inhibitor era are warranted.
Biomarker-Based Management of AKI: Fact or Fantasy?
Authors: Ostermann Marlies , Karsten Emma , Lumlertgul Nuttha
Published: August 2021

New biomarkers for acute kidney injury (AKI) have improved our understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of AKI. Depending on their origin, function, and kinetic profile, biomarkers have a role in screening, diagnosis, prognostication, and monitoring of AKI. This offers opportunities to improve the management of AKI, but concerns and limitations remain. In this review, we summarize the current role of new AKI biomarkers in the management of AKI and outline some of the ongoing limitations and challenges.
Wild ungulates in Jordan: past, present, and forthcoming opportunities
Authors: Eid Ehab , Mallon David
Published: August 2021

Twelve species of ungulates are reported from the wild in Jordan. Three of these, Addax nasomaculatus (Addax), Bos primigenius (Aurochs), and Cervus elaphus (Red Deer) are known only from archaeological excavations. Dama mesopotamica (Mesopotamian Fallow Deer), Oryx leucoryx (Arabian Oryx) and Equus hemionus hemippus (Syrian Wild Ass) have been regionally extirpated in the wild. A semi-captive population of Persian Onager (E. h. hemionus) is held in Shumari Wildlife Reserve. The Arabian Oryx is also managed in semi-captive conditions in two reserves. Except the commonly occurring Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), other surviving ungulate species continue to be under serious threat. Gazella gazella (Palestinian Mountain Gazelle), Capreolus capreolus (European Roe Deer), Gazella marica (Arabian Sand Gazelle), and Gazella dorcas (Dorcas Gazelle) are Critically Endangered, and Capra nubiana (Nubian Ibex) is Endangered in the region. This paper provides a review of the historical and current status of wild ungulates in Jordan, listing the threats and conservation measures and provides recommendations for management and conservation in the future.
A large mammal survey in Koyli Alpha Community Wildlife Reserve and its surroundings in the Great Green Wall extension area in Senegal
Authors: Niang Anna , Ndiaye Papa Ibnou
Published: August 2021

Wildlife in the Great Green Wall (GGW) area, northern Senegal, is threatened by the cumulative effects of anthropogenic activities, drought, and climatic changes. To support conservation planning in line with the GGW management objectives, we studied large mammal diversity in the Koyli Alpha Community Wildlife Reserve in the GGW extension area. We interviewed local communities, made reconnaissance & transect walks, placed camera traps, and carried out fixed point surveys to map the distribution of mammals & to estimate their relative abundance. The surveys were conducted between May 2017 and December 2019. We identified the presence of nine mammal species belonging to six families: one lagomorph, Cape Hare Lepus capensis; seven carnivores, Common Jackal Canis aureus, Pale/Sand Fox Vulpes pallida, Wild Cat Felis silvestris, Marsh Mongoose Atilax paludinosus, Honey Badger Mellivora capensis, Zorilla Ictonyx striatus, Common Genet Genetta genetta, and one primate, Patas Monkey Erythrocebus patas. Our results indicate that the most of the observed species range broadly across the Koyli Alpha Reserve. The Wild Cat and the Sand Fox were also found outside the reserve around the village of Koyli Alpha. Camera trapping events of humans and domestic animals were high throughout the survey area, and the majority of the large mammals observed were mainly nocturnal. The diversity of large wild mammals identified during this study points to the urgent need for the implementation of a management plan of the biodiversity in this area of the Ferlo.
Building Your Mentoring Network in Your Early Career
Authors: Ouimet Mireille , Bauer Robert C. , St. Hilaire Cynthia
Published: August 2021

The pursuit of knowledge, curiosity about the natural world, and a drive to better the human condition are several of the many motivations that encourage someone to further their education in the biological sciences. However noble the intentions, success in an academic graduate program, and perhaps more importantly, in the career options that follow, is not guaranteed. While it is often said that a trainee needs support from their mentors and network to succeed, the Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology Early Career Committee has observed, through our many interactions, both face to face and in the virtual space, that many trainees do not appreciate that building their mentoring network is an active process, and the trainee has more agency in the relationship than perhaps they perceive. In the article below, we discuss our views on building relationships and identifying mentors at different levels and for different purposes. We also highlight events hosted by the Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology Early Career Committee at Vascular Discoveries, Scientific Sessions, and in the virtual space that can help you at the critical career stage.
Heritage Ontologies in Nigeria: An Analysis of How Heritage Connects and Disconnects People
Authors: Ugwuanyi J. Kelechi , Itanyi Edmund I. , Obieluem Uchenna H.
Published: August 2021

This paper examines the principles of cultural heritage conservation in pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial Nigeria. It uncovers how cultural heritage is used and cared for in pre-colonial time based on its ‘utilitarian values’ and the ways colonialism isolated and appropriated cultural heritage from utilitarian communities to create museums/secluded sites for exclusive national narrative. The article interrogates how local worldviews and the intricate relationship of people and environment play around heritage and identity, and how the discourses include or exclude indigenous/local people in the national heritage-making processes. It goes further to show that post-colonial Nigeria has continued with the heritage binaries (e.g. local and national, past and present) created by colonialism, which reflects some approaches that obscure more complex underlying cultural continuities in villages/local communities. The paper argues more generally for a review of national heritage conservation policies and practices to accommodate side-lined local heritage knowledge systems in Africa.
A new Stachys species from Turkey: Stachys siirtensis (Lamiaceae)
Authors: GÜNER ÖZAL , AKÇİÇEK EKREM , DİRMENCİ TUNCAY
Published: August 2021

Stachys siirtensis (Lamiaceae), a new endemic species from Botan Valley of Siirt province in Turkey, is here described. The species is characterized by having congested verticillasters. Hairiness, calyx and corolla length, as well as nutlet and the arrangement of verticillasters, have been used to distinguish Stachys species. Stachys siirtensis is morphologically similar to S. ballotiformis and S. kurdica. The new species resembles S. ballotiformis, but it can be distinguished by flowering stems with glabrous to sparsely and retrorsely pubescence, longer calyx (8–10 mm long) and corolla (13–15 mm long). It also differs from S. kurdica by stalked glandular flowering stems, congested verticillasters, having pilose and sessile glands on calyx, and oblong-obovoid nutlets.
Angiopteris sugongii (Marattiaceae), a new diploid species with transitional morphology between Angiopteris (sen. str.) and Archangiopteris
Authors: WANG TING , ZHANG GUI LIANG , YAN YUE HONG , SUN DA KUAN , SHU JIANG-PING , DUAN JIE-QIU , ZHAO GUO-HUA , ZHANG GUI-SHENG , XIANG JIAN-YING , WANG KANG-LING
Published: August 2021

A new diploid species of marattioid ferns, Angiopteris sugongii Gui L. Zhang, J.Y. Xiang & Ting Wang (Marattiaceae), with ascending rhizomes, once pinnate to bipinnate laminae and marginal long sori, is identified and characterized from Southeast Yunnan, China. The distinctiveness between the new species and three relatives, A. itoi, A. bipinnata and A. sparsisora, are presented in detail, and a key to 11 species with once pinnate, or once pinnate to bipinnate laminae of Angiopteris in China is provided. Currently, there are three populations with 30 individuals in Daweishan National Nature Reserve and we suggest A. sugongii should be categorized as Critically Endangered (CR) species according to the criteria of IUCN. The discovery of this new species not only provides an important evidence for understanding the evolution of Angiopteris (sen. lat.), but also gives us a key insight into origin of species in the genus.
A new species of Paraxantia Liu & Kang (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae; Phaneropterinae; Vosiini) from China
Authors: WU CHAO , LIU CHUN-XIANG
Published: August 2021

The genus Paraxantia Liu & Kang, 2009 previously included 10 species, which are endemic to south of China. Herein we describe one new species: P. hakka sp. nov. from Guangdong Province, China. Illustrations of male stridulatory files of most Paraxantia species are provided. The distribution of the new species is discussed and mapped. All types are deposited in Insect Collection of Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (IZCAS).
Electronic Structures and Spectroscopic Properties of Fluorescent Sensor Reacting with Volatile Organic Compounds: A Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Gu Haiyang , Huang Xingyi , Chen Quansheng , Ping Tan Chin , Sun Yanhui
Published: August 2021

A theoretical study of copper porphyrin (CuP), without any meso substituent, reacting with different volatile organic compounds (VOCs), recently applied as the dye in the fluorescent array sensor was calculated for the ground and excited electronic states. Geometry structures of CuP
and its complexes were optimized by using density functional theory coupled with B3LYP/LAN2DZ basis set, whereas excitation energies were calculated by time-dependent density functional theory at the same level. The calculated relative energies of CuP and its complexes have displayed the following
order: CuP-L6 < CuP-L1 < CuP-H2S < CuP < CuP-L4 < CuP-L2 < CuP-O2 < CuP-L5 < CuP-L3. The relative energies between CuP and propionaldehyde (L6) possess the lowest energy gap, causing the binding to react more efficiently and faster than the other complexes.
The results also reveal that the addition of VOCs has a significant influence on the spectrum property and energy gap between the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO). This study suggests that the calculation result is useful for the application
of a CuP-based fluorescent array sensor for a special analyte.
Construction and Biological Performance of Surface Treated Porous Titanium Scaffold Using Nanotube Arrays of Anatase
Authors: Wang Haibo , Fan Xingping
Published: August 2021

TiO2 nanotube in diameter of ~ 100 nm array films were prepared on a porous titanium scaffold with a porosity of 70% via anodic oxidation. The morphology and phases of the films were characterized, and the thermal stability of the films were also studied. In-vitro,
the bioactivity of the modified scaffolds was evaluated by simulated body fluid immersion test. In vivo, the scaffolds were implanted into the back muscles of the dog for 6 months. Results show that the anatase nanotubues give better bioactivity than the amorphous. The scaffold after
anodic oxidation and annealing at 500 °C for 5 hours not only can induce the formation of hydroxyapatite, but also can induce blood vessel formation and promote the expressions of bone morphogenetic protein BMP-2. The BMP-2 concentrations is 5.57±0.20 μ/L for the scaffold been
anodically oxidated and heat-preserved, the value is much higher than that of untreated scaffold(2.78±0.16 μg/L)or only been anodically oxidated(2.86±0.17 μg/L). It shows that the anatase TiO2 nanotubes can contribute to the potential osteoinductivity. This study
will promote the development of novel functional porous supports.
Polypyrrole-Coated Manganese Dioxide Nanowires and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as High-Performance Electrodes for Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Tao Jiayou , Liao Jie , Zou Zhijun , Liao Gaohua , Li Chang , Liu Sanjie
Published: August 2021

Free-standing films based on MnO2@multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)@Polypyrrole (PPy) have been fabricated for aqueous zinc-ion batteries. A simple hydrothermal method was adopted to synthesize ß-MnO2 nanowires. PPy coated the ß-MnO2
nanowires@MWCNTs composite by an in-situ polymerization process. Free-standing films of ß-MnO2@MWCNTs@PPy composite were prepared by a convenient vacuum-assisted filtration. A zinc-ion battery is fabricated with a zinc foil anode and a ß-MnO2@MWCNTs@PPy composite
cathode. The Zn//ß-MnO2@ MWCNTs@PPy system in ZnSO4@MnSO4 aqueous electrolyte exhibits high electrochemical performances, such as an initial capacity of 258.5 mAh g-1 at 0.2 A g-1, and about 74.6% retention after 100 cycles with
near 100% Coulombic efficiency. The strategy of conductive polymer coating makes the technology of rechargeable zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) very promising and provides opportunities of organic-inorganic composite materials for energy storage applications.
Implementation of the Unified Representation of Deep Moist Convection in the CWBGFS
Authors: Su Chun-Yian , Wu Chien-Ming , Chen Wei-Ting , Chen Jen-Her
Published: August 2021

This study implements the unified parameterization (UP) in the Central Weather Bureau Global Forecast System (CWBGFS) based on the relaxed Arakawa–Schubert scheme (RAS) at a horizontal resolution of 15 km. The new cumulus parameterization that incorporates the UP framework is called URAS. The UP generalizes the representation of moist convection between the parameterized and the explicitly resolved processes according to the process-dependent convective updraft fraction (σ). Short-term hindcasts are performed to investigate the impacts of the UP on the simulated precipitation variability and organized convective systems over the Maritime Continent when multiple scales of convection occurred. The result shows that σ is generally larger when convective systems develop, which adaptively reduces the parameterized convection and increases the spatial variation of moisture. In the URAS experiment, the moisture hotspots within organized convective systems contribute to the enhanced local circulation and the more significant variability of precipitation. Consequently, the URAS has a more realistic precipitation spectrum, an improved relationship between the maximum precipitation and the horizontal scale of the convective systems, and an improved column water vapor–precipitation relationship.
Qualitative Findings on the Impact of COVID-19 Restrictions on Australian Gay and Bisexual Men: Community Belonging and Mental Well-being
Authors: Philpot Steven P. , Holt Martin , Murphy Dean , Haire Bridget , Prestage Garrett , Maher Lisa , Bavinton Benjamin R. , Hammoud Mohamed A. , Jin Fengyi , Bourne Adam
Published: August 2021

COVID-19 may threaten the already poor mental health outcomes of Australian gay and bisexual men and cut ties to important social/sexual networks and community. Qualitative research into the experiences of gay and bisexual men during COVID-19 regulations is currently sparse. We report on 489 responses to a qualitative free-text question asking Australian gay and bisexual men about the impacts of COVID-19 during April 2020. Issues pertinent to gay and bisexual men include lost ties to gay and bisexual social/sexual communities, spaces, and activities, which can reduce a sense of belonging to important sexual identity spaces, as well as significant mental well-being vulnerabilities. Reminiscing the collective response to HIV/AIDS, findings reinforce the value of gay and bisexual community organizations, spaces, and networks as supports for gay and bisexual men and emphasize the need for delivering mental health services.
Genome-Wide Phylogenetic Analysis, Expression Pattern, and Transcriptional Regulatory Network of the Pig C/EBP Gene Family
Authors: Zhang Chaoxin , Wang Tao , Cui Tongyan , Liu Shengwei , Zhang Bing , Li Xue , Tang Jian , Wang Peng , Guo Yuanyuan , Wang Zhipeng
Published: August 2021

The CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP) transcription factors (TFs) regulate many important biological processes, such as energy metabolism, inflammation, cell proliferation etc. A genome-wide gene identification revealed the presence of a total of 99 C/EBP genes in pig and 19 eukaryote genomes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all C/EBP TFs were classified into 6 subgroups named C/EBPα, C/EBPβ, C/EBPδ, C/EBPε, C/EBPγ, and C/EBPζ. Gene expression analysis showed that the C/EBPα, C/EBPβ, C/EBPδ, C/EBPγ, and C/EBPζ genes were expressed ubiquitously with inconsistent expression patterns in various pig tissues. Moreover, a pig C/EBP regulatory network was constructed, including C/EBP genes, TFs and miRNAs. A total of 27 feed-forward loop (FFL) motifs were detected in the pig C/EBP regulatory network. Based on the RNA-seq data, gene expression patterns related to FFL sub-network were analyzed in 27 adult pig tissues. Certain FFL motifs may be tissue specific. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that C/EBP and its target genes are involved in many important biological pathways. These results provide valuable information that clarifies the evolutionary relationships of the C/EBP family and contributes to the understanding of the biological function of C/EBP genes.
Relationship quality and objectively measured physical activity before and after implementation of COVID-19 stay-home orders
Authors: Cornelius Talea , Denes Amanda , Webber Katrina T , Guest Chelsea , Goldsmith Jeff , Schwartz Joseph E , Gorin Amy A
Published: August 2021

In a sample of 28 individuals cohabiting with a partner in NYC, Boston, or Chicago, this study tested whether implementation of stay-home orders to combat the spread of COVID-19 disrupted physical activity and whether high-quality romantic relationships buffered adverse effects. Participants provided FitBit data between February and October, 2020. Stay-home orders were associated with a reduction in daily step counts, B = −1595.72, p = 0.018, increased sedentary minutes, B = 33.75, p = 0.002, and reduced daily minutes of light and moderate physical activity, B = –25.01, p = 0.011; B = –0.72, p = 0.021. No moderation effects emerged.
Left Out: A Review of Women’s Struggle to Develop a Sense of Belonging in Engineering
Authors: Wilson Denise , VanAntwerp Jennifer
Published: August 2021

Unmet or thwarted belonging needs have been implicated in multiple studies of women in engineering in college and in the engineering workforce. A wide range of other challenges that women face in engineering are tightly linked to deficits in belonging. Furthermore, many women face intersectional factors across race and ethnicity that make it even more difficult to belong. This literature review looks at women’s struggles in engineering in the context of the fundamental psychological need to belong. Studies that investigate belonging are reviewed, as are major contributors to unmet or thwarted belonging including gender identity threat and normative and numerical male dominance. Belonging is not the only psychological need that is inadequately met for women in engineering, but it is a common factor in multiple contexts and the situation worsens as women progress in their career pathways. Studies of belonging among women in engineering underscore the importance of supporting women in fulfilling this basic need even when the cultural transformation of engineering into a gender-balanced environment is not yet a reality.
Rituximab for treatment of non-infectious and non-malignant orbital inflammatory disease
Authors: Ng Caleb C. , Sy Aileen , Cunningham Emmett T.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To provide a comprehensive review of rituximab use for the treatment of non-infectious/non-malignant orbital inflammation.

Methods

Review of literature through January 2021.

Results

Individual data was available for 167 patients with refractory non-infectious/non-malignant orbital inflammation who received treatment with rituximab (RTX). Rituximab was generally utilized as third-line or later treatment (108/149, 72.5%) at a mean of 44.6 months following the diagnosis of orbital inflammation (range = 0 to 360 months; median = 13.7 months). Patients with non-infectious/non-malignant orbital inflammation either received prior treatment with corticosteroids only (27/122, 22.1%), or with one (31/122, 25.4%), two (25/122, 20.5%), or three or more (25/122, 20.5%) corticosteroid-sparing immunosuppressive agents with or without corticosteroids before initiation of RTX treatment. The rheumatologic protocol (two infusions of 1 gram of RTX separated by 14 days) was utilized most frequently (80/144, 55.6%), followed by the oncologic protocol (four weekly infusions of 375 mg/m2 RTX; 51/144, 35.4%). Various other off-label regimens were used infrequently (13/144, 9.0%). Rituximab treatments resulted in a positive therapeutic response for the majority of patients with orbital inflammation (146/166, 88.0%). Commonly treated diagnoses included granulomatosis with polyangiitis (99/167, 59.3%), IgG-4 related disease (36/167, 21.6%), and orbital inflammation of indeterminate cause (25/167, 15.0%). No side effects were reported in 83.3% (55/66) of cases. The most common RTX-induced adverse event was an infusion-related temporary exacerbation of orbital disease (4/66, 6.1%), which occurred prior to the routine use of systemic corticosteroids as pre-conditioning.

Conclusions

Overall, RTX appears to be both efficacious and well-tolerated as second- or third-line therapy for patients with non-infectious/non-malignant orbital inflammation.
Investigation of Interaction between the Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 and ACE2-Expressing Cells Using an In Vitro Cell Capturing System
Authors: Shang Yuning , Chen Feixiang , Li Shasha , Song Lijuan , Gao Yunzhen , Yu Xinhua , Zheng Junfeng
Published: August 2021

Background

The Interaction between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein with Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on the host cells is a crucial step for the viral entry and infection. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanism underlying the interaction is of great importance for the prevention of the infection of SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we aimed to establish a virus-free in vitro system to study the interaction between the spike protein and host cells of SARS-CoV-2.

Results

Our results show that ACE2-overexpressing HEK293T cells are captured by immobilized spike S1 protein, and the cell capturing process can be inhibited by the receptor binding domain of the spike protein or antibodies against S protein. Furthermore, spike S1 protein variant with D614G mutant show a higher cell capturing ability than wild type spike S1 protein and stronger binding capacity of its receptor ACE2. In addition, the captured cells can be eluted as living cells for further investigation.

Conclusions

This study provides a new in vitro system for investigating the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and host cells and purifying ACE2-expressing cells.
Innate lymphoid cell dysfunction during long-term suppressive antiretroviral therapy in an African cohort
Authors: Nabatanzi Rose , Bayigga Lois , Cose Stephen , Canderan Glenda , Rowland Jones Sarah , Joloba Moses , Nakanjako Damalie
Published: August 2021

Background

Innate lymphoid cells (ILC) are lymphoid lineage innate immune cells that do not mount antigen-specific responses due to their lack of B and T-cell receptors. ILCs are predominantly found at mucosal surfaces, as gatekeepers against invading infectious agents through rapid secretion of immune regulatory cytokines. HIV associated destruction of mucosal lymphoid tissue depletes ILCs, among other immune dysfunctions. Studies have described limited restoration of ILCs during the first three years of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART). Little is known about restoration of ILCs during long-term cART, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa which hosts increasing numbers of adults with at least a decade of cART.

Results

We examined phenotypes and function of ILCs from peripheral blood mononuclear cells after 12 years of suppressive cART. We report that ILC1 frequencies (T-BET + CD127 + and CD161 +) were higher in cART-treated HIV-infected relative to age-matched health HIV-negative adults; P = 0.04 whereas ILC precursors (ILCP) were comparable in the two groups (P = 0.56). Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) secretion by ILC1 was higher among cART-treated HIV-infected relative to HIV-negative adults (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

HIV associated alteration of ILC persisted during cART and may likely affect the quality of host innate and adaptive immune responses during long-term cART.
Characterizing social-ecological context and success factors of antimicrobial resistance interventions across the One Health spectrum: analysis of 42 interventions targeting E. coli
Authors: Léger Anaïs , Lambraki Irene , Graells Tiscar , Cousins Melanie , Henriksson Patrik J. G. , Harbarth Stephan , Carson Carolee A. , Majowicz Shannon E. , Troell Max , Parmley E. Jane , Jørgensen Peter S. , Wernli Didier
Published: August 2021

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is among the most pressing One Health issues. While interventions and policies with various targets and goals have been implemented, evidence about factors underpinning success and failure of interventions in different sectors is lacking. The objective of this study is to identify characteristics of AMR interventions that increase their capacity to impact AMR. This study focuses on AMR interventions targeting E. coli.

Methods

We used the AMR-Intervene framework to extract descriptions of the social and ecological systems of interventions to determine factors contributing to their success.

Results

We identified 52 scientific publications referring to 42 unique E. coli AMR interventions. We mainly identified interventions implemented in high-income countries (36/42), at the national level (16/42), targeting primarily one sector of society (37/42) that was mainly the human sector (25/42). Interventions were primarily funded by governments (38/42). Most intervention targeted a low leverage point in the AMR system, (36/42), and aimed to change the epidemiology of AMR (14/42). Among all included publications, 55% (29/52) described at least one success factor or obstacle (29/52) and 19% (10/52) identified at least one success factor and one obstacle. Most reported success factors related to communication between the actors and stakeholders and the role of media, and stressed the importance of collaboration between disciplines and external partners. Described obstacles covered data quality, access to data and statistical analyses, and the validity of the results.

Conclusions

Overall, we identified a lack of diversity regarding interventions. In addition, most published E. coli interventions were poorly described with limited evidence of the factors that contributed to the intervention success or failure. Design and reporting guidelines would help to improve reporting quality and provide a valuable tool for improving the science of AMR interventions.
The weak correlation between serum vitamin levels and chronic kidney disease in hospitalized patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Yong , Zheng Ying , Chen Pu , Liang Shuang , He Pengfei , Shao Xiaolei , Cai Guangyan , Chen Xiangmei
Published: August 2021

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become a global public health problem. Accumulating evidence suggested that vitamins play important roles in the progression of CKD.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the vitamin status of patients with CKD at stage 1–5. The serum concentrations of 9 vitamins, vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B9, B12, C, D, and E were measured by electroanalytical method with a Multi-Vitamin Analyzer. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression between serum level of vitamins were analyzed.

Results

The median levels of vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B9, B12, C and E were within the reference ranges or on the borderline. Vitamin D deficiency was found in all patients. Weak correlation was found between vitamin A or vitamin D and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The Pearson correlation coefficient were − 0.21766 and 0.19752, respectively. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and atherosclerosis were the major comorbidities.

Conclusions

For the first time, the serum levels of 9 vitamins were measured simultaneously in patients with CKD at different stages. Vitamin D deficiency was found in all patients. Weak correlation between vitamin A or vitamin D and eGFR was found.
Preferences of first-degree relatives of gastric cancer patients for gastric cancer screening: a discrete choice experiment
Authors: Li Hui-qin , Xue Hui , Yuan Hua , Wan Guang-ying , Zhang Xiu-ying
Published: August 2021

Background

It is very necessary to implement gastric cancer screening in China to reduce the mortality of gastric cancer, but there are no national screening guidelines and programs. Understanding of individual preferences is conducive to formulating more acceptable screening strategies, and discrete choice experiments can quantify individual preferences. In addition, the first-degree relatives of gastric cancer patients are at high risk for gastric cancer. Compared with those without a family history of gastric cancer, the risk of gastric cancer in first-degree relatives of gastric cancer patients is increased by 60%. Therefore, a discrete choice experiment was carried out to quantitatively analyse the preferences of first-degree relatives of gastric cancer patients for gastric cancer screening to serve as a reference for the development of gastric cancer screening strategies.

Methods

A questionnaire was designed based on a discrete choice experiment, and 342 first-degree relatives of gastric cancer patients were investigated. In STATA 15.0 software, the data were statistically analysed using a mixed logit model.

Results

The five attributes included in our study had a significant influence on the preferences of first-degree relatives of gastric cancer patients for gastric cancer screening (P < 0.05). Participants most preferred the sensitivity of the screening program to be 95% (coefficient = 1.424, P < 0.01) with a willingness to pay 2501.902 Yuan (95% CI, 738.074–4265.729). In addition, the participants’ sex and screening experiences affected their preferences. An increase in sensitivity 35 to 95% had the greatest impact on the participants’ willingness to choose a gastric cancer screening program.

Conclusion

The formulation of gastric cancer screening strategies should be rooted in people’s preferences. The influence of sex differences and screening experiences on the preferences of people undergoing screening should be considered, and screening strategies should be formulated according to local conditions to help them play a greater role.
Tinea capitis in an immigrant pediatric community; a clinical signs-based treatment approach
Authors: Kassem Riad , Shemesh Yahel , Nitzan Orna , Azrad Maya , Peretz Avi
Published: August 2021

Background

Tinea capitis is a common cutaneous infection of the scalp and hair follicles, typically diagnosed by direct examination and culture. Treatment with oral antifungals is usually withheld until mycology results are available. In Israel, African refugee children demonstrate higher susceptibility to Tinea capitis and generally fail to undergo follow-up evaluations.

Methods

This study aimed to identify the clinical characteristics and treatment responses of refugee children in Israel with Tinea capitis, in order to formulate a treatment plan for primary care physicians. To this end, demographic, clinical and laboratory data were extracted from the electronic medical records of 76 refugee children presenting with Tinea capitis during 2016–2017. All measured variables and derived parameters are presented using descriptive statistics. The correlation between background clinical and demographic data and Tinea capitis diagnosis was assessed using the chi-squared and Wilcoxon tests. Correlations between demographic/clinical/laboratory characteristics and other types of fungi or other important findings were assessed using a T-test.

Results

Scaling was the most common clinical finding. Cultures were positive in 64 (84%) and direct examination in 65 (85%) cases, with a positive correlation between the methods in 75% of cases. The most common fungal strain was T. violaceum. Fluconazole treatment failed in 27% of cases. Griseofulvin 50 mg/kg/day was administered to 74 (97%) children, and induced clinical responses. No side effects were reported.

Conclusions

The key aim of this study was to emphasize the importance of diagnosis and treatment of these immigrant children by their primary pediatric doctor since it takes, an average of 4.3 months until they visit a dermatologist. During this critical time period, the scalp can become severely and permanently damaged, and the infection can become systemic or cause an outbreak within the entire community. In conclusion, we recommend to relate to scaly scalp in high-risk populations as Tinea capitis, and to treat with griseofulvin at a dosage of up to 50 mg/kg/day, starting from the first presentation to the pediatrician.
Individual, community and societal correlates of insecticide treated net use among pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa: a multi-level analysis
Authors: Ameyaw Edward Kwabena
Published: August 2021

Background

Malaria in pregnancy is a crucial public health concern due to the enormous risk it poses to maternal and newborn health. The World Health Organisation therefore recommends insecticide-treated net (ITN) for pregnant women. The world over, sub-Saharan Africa bears the highest prevalence of malaria and its associated complications. This study investigated the individual, community and society level factors associated with ITN use among pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

The study was conducted with Demographic and Health Survey data of 21 sub-Saharan African countries. A total of 17,731 pregnant women who possessed ITN participated in the study. Descriptive computation of ITN use by survey country and socio-demographic characteristics was conducted. Further, five multi-level binary logistic regression models were fitted with MLwiN 3.05 package in STATA. The Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) estimation procedure was used in estimating the parameters whilst the Bayesian Deviance Information Criterion was used for the model fitness test.

Results

On average, 74.2% pregnant women in SSA used ITN. The highest prevalence of ITN use occurred in Mali (83.7%) whilst the least usage occurred in Namibia (7%). Women aged 30–34 were more likely to use ITN compared with those aged 45–49 [aOR = 1.14; Crl = 1.07–1.50]. Poorest women were less probable to use ITN relative to richest women [aOR = 0.79; Crl = 0.70–0.89]. Compared to women who did not want their pregnancies at all, women who wanted their pregnancies [aOR = 1.06; Crl = 1.04–1.19] were more probable to use ITN. Women in male-headed households had higher likelihood of ITN use compared to those from female-headed households [aOR = 1.28; Crl = 1.19–1.39]. On the whole, 38.1% variation in ITN use was attributable to societal level factors whilst 20.9% variation was attributable to community level factors.

Conclusion

The study has revealed that in addition to individual level factors, community and society level factors affect ITN use in SSA. In as much as the study points towards the need to incorporate community and societal variations in ITN interventions, active involvement of men can yield better outcome for ITN utilisation interventions in SSA.
What can we learn from the online learning experiences of medical students in Poland during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic?
Authors: Pokryszko-Dragan Anna , Marschollek Karol , Nowakowska-Kotas Marta , Aitken Gillian
Published: August 2021

Background

In March 2020, due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the Polish government ordered the closing of all medical faculties, with an obligatory shift to online learning. This lockdown continued, with a short period of blended learning, over the time of summer 2020. Distance learning had previously been rarely used within Polish medical schools, so such a sudden transfer was a major challenge. The aim of the study was to explore undergraduates’ perception of online teaching provided at Polish medical faculties during the pandemic and to analyze how these experiences may inform future curriculum development.

Methods

The online survey was addressed to undergraduates at Polish medical faculties in November 2020. The questions captured demographics, epidemiological data and students’ perception of various aspects of online teaching. Responses were subjected to thematic analysis and their distribution compared considering demographic parameters .

Results

Six hundred twenty students from thirteen medical faculties responded to the survey. Major benefits from online teaching perceived by respondents included increased convenience, enhanced quality, a sense of comfort and safety. Major complaints were associated with unsatisfactory content, technical issues, difficulties engaging, poor organization and lack of social life. Students claimed that online teaching required more self-directed learning and discipline and 57.9% considered this impact as negative. 44.5% of respondents took part in educational online activities beyond their scheduled classes. For 49.2% online examinations were reported as more stressful and for 24.8% - less stressful than traditional ones. Differences in the opinions on online teaching were found between men and women, students in early and senior years, Polish and non-Polish ones.

Conclusions

The sudden move online inevitably was problematic for students. Their perspective afforded us the opportunity to consider shortcomings of pre-pandemic undergraduate curriculum. Online education requires a more self-directed learning, which was challenging for many students, so further enhancement of more autonomous study skills seems necessary. Distress expressed by students indicates the need for urgent support with mental health issues.
Virtual obstetrics and gynecology fellowship interviews during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic: a survey study
Authors: Peyser Alexandra , Gulersen Moti , Nimaroff Michael , Mullin Christine , Goldman Randi H.
Published: August 2021

Background

Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, all Obstetrics and Gynecology fellowship interviews were held virtually for the 2020 fellowship match cycle. The aim of this study was to describe our initial experience with virtual Obstetrics and Gynecology fellowship interviews and evaluate its effectiveness in assessing candidates.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey study that included all interviewing attending physicians and fellows from five Obstetrics and Gynecology subspecialties at a single academic institution following the 2020–2021 fellowship interview season. The survey consisted of 19 questions aimed to evaluate each subspecialty’s virtual interview process, including its feasibility and performance in evaluating applicants. The primary outcome was the subjective utility of virtual interviews. Secondary outcomes included a comparison of responses from fellows and attending physicians.

Results

Thirty-six attendings and fellows completed the survey (36/53, 68% response rate). Interviewers felt applicants were able to convey themselves adequately during the virtual interview (92%) and the majority (70%) agreed that virtual interviews should be offered in future years. Attending physicians were more likely than fellows to state that the virtual interview process adequately assessed the candidates (Likert Scale Mean: 4.4 vs. 3.8, respectively, p = 0.02). Respondents highlighted decreased cost, time saved, and increased flexibility as benefits to the virtual interview process.

Conclusion

The use of virtual interviews provides a favorable method for conducting fellowship interviews and should be considered for use in future application cycles. Most respondents were satisfied with the virtual interview process and found they were an effective tool for evaluating applicants.