bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using pre-existing social networks to determine the burden of disease and real-life needs in rare diseases: the example of Thygeson's superficial punctate keratitis
Authors: Saad Rana , Saad Sami , Haigh Oscar , Molinari Domitille , Labetoulle Marc , Rousseau Antoine
Published: January 2021

Background

Thygeson’s superficial punctate keratitis (TSPK) is a rare and still poorly understood disease of the ocular surface, responsible for recurrent episodes of photophobia and eye pain. While TSPK is considered as a benign condition, a subset of patients has frequent recurrences or even chronic disease, two situations in which there are currently no therapeutic guidelines. We used a preexisting Facebook TSPK patient support group to assess the clinical journey and the burden of disease of TSPK.

Results

An online survey was sent to the patient support group. The first part of the questionnaire gathered information on demographics and the patient’s clinical journey [diagnostic modalities, symptoms, duration and frequency of recurrent episodes (RE), efficacy and tolerance to treatments]. The second part focused on quality of life (QoL) using the Ocular Surface Disease-QoL (OSD-QoL) questionnaire. Seventy-two patients out of 595 members of the support group completed the questionnaire during the 3-months study period. Eighty percent of patients developed symptoms before 30 years old, and 47% reported a delay in the diagnosis above 1 year. Sixty percent of patients reported over 5 RE yearly, and 18% of RE lasted more than 3 months. Forty percent of all patients used cyclosporine eyedrops (50% of those with > 5 episodes/year) and it was perceived as effective by 72% of these patients. The impact on daily life activities was judged as severe by 22% of patients, while 38% reported reduced professional activity and 80% were deeply saddened by their eye condition.

Conclusion

TSPK patients may present with frequent recurrences and/or chronic disease, that result in a severe impact on QoL, and an off-label use of topical immunomodulatory eye drops, suggesting the urgent need for controlled studies. The utility of using social networks for rare ophthalmic disease research includes, faster data collection, data from patients across the globe, and also raises relevant questions about their real needs.
Suppressed prefrontal cortex oscillations associate with clinical pain in fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva
Authors: Peng Ke , Karunakaran Keerthana Deepti , Labadie Robert , Veliu Miranda , Cheung Chandler , Lee Arielle , Yu Paul B. , Upadhyay Jaymin
Published: January 2021

Background

Pain is a highly prevalent symptom experienced by patients across numerous rare musculoskeletal conditions. Much remains unknown regarding the central, neurobiological processes associated with clinical pain in musculoskeletal disease states. Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is an inherited condition characterized by substantial physical disability and pain. FOP arises from mutations of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptor Activin A receptor type 1 (ACVR1) causing patients to undergo painful flare-ups as well as heterotopic ossification (HO) of skeletal muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. To date, the neurobiological processes that underlie pain in FOP have rarely been investigated. We examined pain and central pain mechanism in FOP as a model primary musculoskeletal condition. Central nervous system (CNS) functional properties were investigated in FOP patients (N = 17) stratified into low (0–3; 0–10 Scale) and high (≥ 4) pain cohorts using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Associations among clinical pain, mental health, and physical health were also quantified using responses derived from a battery of clinical questionnaires.

Results

Resting-state fNIRS revealed suppressed power of hemodynamic activity within the slow-5 frequency sub-band (0.01–0.027 Hz) in the prefrontal cortex in high pain FOP patients, where reduced power of slow-5, prefrontal cortex oscillations exhibited robust negative correlations with pain levels. Higher clinical pain intensities were also associated with higher magnitudes of depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Our findings not only demonstrate a robust coupling among prefrontal cortex functionality and clinical pain in FOP but lays the groundwork for utilizing fNIRS to objectively monitor and central pain mechanisms in FOP and other musculoskeletal disorders.
The circular RNA circZFR phosphorylates Rb promoting cervical cancer progression by regulating the SSBP1/CDK2/cyclin E1 complex
Authors: Zhou Mingyi , Yang Zhuo , Wang Danbo , Chen Peng , Zhang Yong
Published: January 2021

Background

As a novel type of non-coding RNA, circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a critical role in the initiation and development of various diseases, including cancer. However, the exact function of circRNAs in human cervical cancer remains largely unknown.

Methods

We identified the circRNA signature of upregulated circRNAs between cervical cancer and paired adjacent normal tissues. Using two different cohorts and GEO database, a total of six upregulated circRNAs were identified with a fold change > 2, and P < 0.05. Among these six circRNAs, hsa_circ_0072088 (circZFR) was the only exonic circRNA significantly overexpressed in cervical cancer. Functional experiments were performed to investigate the biological function of circZFR. CircRNA pull-down, circRNA immunoprecipitation (circRIP) and Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assays were executed to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the function of circZFR.

Results

Functionally, circZFR knockdown represses the proliferation, invasion, and tumor growth. Furthermore, circRNA pull-down experiments combined with mass spectrometry unveil the interactions of circZFR with Single-Stranded DNA Binding Protein 1 (SSBP1). Mechanistically, circZFR bound with SSBP1, thereby promoting the assembly of CDK2/cyclin E1 complexes. The activation of CDK2/cyclin E1 complexes induced p-Rb phosphorylation, thus releasing activated E2F1 leading to cell cycle progression and cell proliferation.

Conclusion

Our findings provide the first evidence that circZFR is a novel onco-circRNA and might be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for cervical cancer patients.
The impact of age and receipt antihypertensives to systolic blood pressure and shock index at injury scene and in the emergency department to predict massive transfusion in trauma patients
Authors: Park Se Jin , Lee Mi Jin , Kim Changho , Jung Haewon , Kim Seong Hun , Nho Wooyoung , Seo Kang Suk , Park Jungbae , Ryoo Hyun Wook , Ahn Jae Yun , Moon Sungbae , Cho Jae Wan , Son Shin-ah
Published: January 2021

Background

Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and shock index (SI) are accurate indicators of hemodynamic instability and the need for transfusion in trauma patients. We aimed to determine whether the utility and cutoff point for SBP and SI are affected by age and antihypertensives.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of a level 1 trauma center between January 2017 and December 2018. We analyzed the utility and cutoff points of SBP and SI for predicting massive transfusion (MT) and 30-day mortality according to patients’ age and whether they were taking antihypertensives. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to estimate the association of age and antihypertensives on primary and secondary outcomes.

Results

We analyzed 4681 trauma cases. There were 1949 patients aged 65 years or older (41.6%), and 1375 hypertensive patients (29.4%). MT was given to 137 patients (2.9%). The 30-day mortality rate was 6.3% (n = 294). In geriatric trauma patients taking antihypertensives, a prehospital SBP less than 110 mmHg was the cutoff value for predicting MT in multivariate logistic regression analyses; packed red blood cell transfusion volume decreased abruptly based on prehospital SBP of 110 mmHg. Emergency Department SI greater than 1.0 was the cutoff value for predicting MT in patients who were older than 65 years and were not taking antihypertensives.

Conclusions

The triage of trauma patients is based on the identification of clinical features readily identifiable by first responders. However, age and medications may also affect the accurate evaluation. In initial trauma management, we must apply SBP and SI differently depending on age, whether a patient is taking antihypertensives, and the time at which the indicators are measured.
Bioavailable turmeric extract for knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, non-inferiority trial versus paracetamol
Authors: Singhal Shubha , Hasan Nazer , Nirmal Kirti , Chawla Rohit , Chawla Shalini , Kalra Bhupinder Singh , Dhal Anil
Published: January 2021

Background

To compare the efficacy and safety of bioavailable turmeric extract versus paracetamol in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

In this randomized, non-inferiority, controlled clinical study, patients of knee OA were randomized to receive bioavailable turmeric extract (BCM-95®) 500 mg capsule two times daily or paracetamol 650 mg tablet three times daily for 6 weeks. The primary outcome measure was Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain subscale. The secondary outcome measures were WOMAC total, WOMAC stiffness, and WOMAC physical function scores. Responder analysis of individual patients at different levels (≥ 20%, ≥ 50%, and ≥ 70%) for WOMAC score was calculated. TNF alpha and CRP levels were evaluated and adverse events (AE) were also recorded.

Results

Seventy-one and seventy-three knee OA patients, respectively in bioavailable turmeric extract and paracetamol groups, completed the study. Non-inferiority (equivalence) test showed that WOMAC scores were equivalent in both the groups (p value < 0.05) in all the domains within the equivalence limit defined by effect size (Cohen’s d) of 0.5 whereas CRP and TNF-α were better reduced with turmeric extract than paracetamol. After 6 weeks of treatment, WOMAC total score, pain, stiffness, and function scores got a significant improvement of 23.59, 32.09, 28.5, and 20.25% respectively with turmeric extract. In the turmeric extract group, 18% of patients got more than 50% improvement and 3% of patients got more than 70% improvement in WOMAC pain and function/stiffness score and none of the patients in the paracetamol group met the criteria. CRP and TNF-α got significantly reduced (37.21 and 74.81% respectively) in the turmeric extract group. Adverse events reported were mild and comparatively less in the turmeric extract group (5.48%) than in the paracetamol group (12.68%).

Conclusion

The results of the study suggest that bioavailable turmeric extract is as effective as paracetamol in reducing pain and other symptoms of knee osteoarthritis and found to be safe and more effective in reducing CRP and TNF-α.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials Registry – India CTRI/2017/02/007962. Registered on 27 February 2017
The effectiveness of Tai Chi on the depressive symptom of young adults with subthreshold depression: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xie Xiaoting , Song Jian , Zhu Jingfang , Han Mengyu , He Youze , Huang Jia , Tao Jing , Wu Jingsong
Published: January 2021

Background

Depression is seriously affecting the physical and mental health of young people worldwide. Subthreshold depression, as an early stage of depression, is essential for early prevention and treatment of depression. Tai Chi, as a traditional Chinese mind-body therapy, may become an alternative intervention. However, the neurophysiological mechanism of Tai Chi for young people with subthreshold depression remains unclear, restricting its further promotion and application. Therefore, rigorous randomized clinical trials are needed to further observe the intervention effect of Tai Chi on young adults with subthreshold depression and explore the neurophysiological mechanism.

Method/design

This report describes a two-arm, randomized, parallel controlled trial with allocation concealment and assessor blinding. A total of 64 eligible participants are randomly allocated to the Tai Chi group and the waiting list group in a 1:1 ratio. Participants in the Tai Chi group receive 12 weeks of Tai Chi training, with a total of 36 times and each for 60 min. Specifically, the participants in the waiting list group are requested to maintain their routine lifestyle. In this study, the primary outcome measure is the mean change in scores on the PHQ-9 and HAMD-17 between baseline and 12 weeks; the secondary outcomes are the mean change in the scores on CES-D, CPSS, GAD-7, and PSQI. Besides, the saliva cortisol levels and fMRI are monitored to explore the mechanism of action of Tai Chi on subthreshold depression.

Discussion

The protocol uses a randomized controlled trial to examine the effectiveness of Tai Chi for young adults with subthreshold depression and explore neurophysiological mechanisms. If the test results are positive, it can be verified that Tai Chi can promote the physical and mental health of young adults with subthreshold depression.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1900028289. Registered on 17 December 2019
Convalescent plasma therapy for COVID-19 patients: a protocol of a prospective meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Szakó Lajos , Farkas Nelli , Kiss Szabolcs , Váncsa Szilárd , Zádori Noémi , Vörhendi Nóra , Erőss Bálint , Hegyi Péter , Alizadeh Hussain
Published: February 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infection with possible serious consequences. The plasma of recovered patients might serve as treatment, which we aim to assess in the form of a prospective meta-analysis focusing on mortality, multi-organ failure, duration of intensive care unit stay, and adverse events.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted to find relevant registered randomized controlled trials in five trial registries.

A comprehensive search will be done continuously on a monthly basis in MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Web of Science to find the results of previously registered randomized controlled trials. The selection will be done by two independent authors. Data extraction will be carried out by two other independent reviewers. Disagreements will be resolved by a third investigator.

An update of the search of the registries and the first search of the databases will be done on the 21st of July.

Data synthesis will be performed following the recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration. In the case of dichotomous outcomes (mortality and organ failure), we will calculate pooled risk ratios with a 95% confidence interval (CI) from two-by-two tables (treatment Y/N, outcome Y/N). Data from models with multivariate adjustment (hazard ratios, odds ratio, risk ratio) will be preferred for the analysis.Pless than 0.05 will be considered statistically significant. In the case of ICU stay, weighted mean difference with a 95% confidence interval will be calculated. Heterogeneity will be tested withI2, andχ2tests. Meta-analysis will be performed if at least 3 studies report on the same outcome and population.

Discussion

Convalescent plasma therapy is a considerable alternative in COVID-19, which we aim to investigate in a prospective meta-analysis.
The spectrum of association in HLA region with rheumatoid arthritis in a diverse Asian population: evidence from the MyEIRA case-control study
Authors: Tan Lay Kim , Too Chun Lai , Diaz-Gallo Lina Marcela , Wahinuddin Sulaiman , Lau Ing Soo , Heselynn Hussein , Nor-Shuhaila Shahril , Gun Suk Chyn , Eashwary Mageswaran , Mohd-Shahrir Mohamed Said , Ainon Mohd Mokhtar , Azmillah Rosman , Muhaini Othman , Shahnaz Murad , Alfredsson Lars , Klareskog Lars , Padyukov Leonid
Published: January 2021

Background

Fine-mapping of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk factors has identified several HLA alleles and its corresponding amino acid residues as independent signals (i.e., HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-DPB1, and HLA-DQA1 genes), in addition to the well-established genetic factor in HLA-DRB1 gene. However, this was mainly performed in the Caucasian and East Asian populations, and data from different Asian regions is less represented. We aimed to evaluate whether there are independent RA risk variants in both anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)-positive and ACPA-negative RA patients from the multi-ethnic Malaysian population, using the fine-mapping of HLA region strategy.

Methods

We imputed the classical HLA alleles, amino acids, and haplotypes using the Immunochip genotyping data of 1260 RA cases (i.e., 530 Malays, 259 Chinese, 412 Indians, and 59 mixed ethnicities) and 1571 controls (i.e., 981 Malays, 205 Chinese, 297 Indians, and 87 mixed ethnicities) from the Malaysian Epidemiological Investigation of Rheumatoid Arthritis (MyEIRA) population-based case-control study. Stepwise logistic regression was performed to identify the independent genetic risk factors for RA within the HLA region.

Results

We confirmed that the HLA-DRB1 amino acid at position 11 with valine residue conferred the strongest risk effect for ACPA-positive RA (OR = 4.26, 95% CI = 3.30–5.49, PGWAS = 7.22 × 10−29) in the Malays. Our study also revealed that HLA-DRB1 amino acid at position 96 with histidine residue was negatively associated with the risk of developing ACPA-positive RA in the Indians (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.37–0.62, PGWAS = 2.58 × 10−08). Interestingly, we observed that HLA-DQB1*03:02 allele was inversely related to the risk of developing ACPA-positive RA in the Malays (OR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.09–0.30, PGWAS = 1.60 × 10−09). No association was observed between the HLA variants and risk of developing ACPA-negative RA in any of the three major ethnic groups in Malaysia.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that the RA-associated genetic factors in the multi-ethnic Malaysian population are similar to those in the Caucasian population, despite significant differences in the genetic architecture of HLA region across populations. A novel and distinct independent association between the HLA-DQB1*03:02 allele and ACPA-positive RA was observed in the Malays. In common with the Caucasian population, there is little risk from HLA region for ACPA-negative RA.
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 from patient fecal samples by whole genome sequencing
Authors: Papoutsis Andreas , Borody Thomas , Dolai Siba , Daniels Jordan , Steinberg Skylar , Barrows Brad , Hazan Sabine
Published: January 2021

Background

SARS-CoV-2 has been detected not only in respiratory secretions, but also in stool collections. Here were sought to identify SARS-CoV-2 by enrichment next-generation sequencing (NGS) from fecal samples, and to utilize whole genome analysis to characterize SARS-CoV-2 mutational variations in COVID-19 patients.

Results

Study participants underwent testing for SARS-CoV-2 from fecal samples by whole genome enrichment NGS (n = 14), and RT-PCR nasopharyngeal swab analysis (n = 12). The concordance of SARS-CoV-2 detection by enrichment NGS from stools with RT-PCR nasopharyngeal analysis was 100%. Unique variants were identified in four patients, with a total of 33 different mutations among those in which SARS-CoV-2 was detected by whole genome enrichment NGS.

Conclusion

These results highlight the potential viability of SARS-CoV-2 in feces, its ongoing mutational accumulation, and its possible role in fecal–oral transmission. This study also elucidates the advantages of SARS-CoV-2 enrichment NGS, which may be a key methodology to document complete viral eradication.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04359836, Registered 24 April 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04359836?term=NCT04359836&draw=2&rank=1).
The genomic characterisation and comparison of Bacillus cereus strains isolated from indoor air
Authors: Premkrishnan Balakrishnan N. V. , Heinle Cassie E. , Uchida Akira , Purbojati Rikky W. , Kushwaha Kavita K. , Putra Alexander , Santhi Puramadathil Sasi , Khoo Benjamin W. Y. , Wong Anthony , Vettath Vineeth Kodengil , Drautz-Moses Daniela I. , Junqueira Ana Carolina M. , Schuster Stephan C.
Published: January 2021

Background

Bacillus cereus is ubiquitous in nature, found in environments such as soil, plants, air, and part of the insect and human gut microbiome. The ability to produce endospores and biofilms contribute to their pathogenicity, classified in two types of food poisoning: diarrheal and emetic syndromes. Here we report gap-free, whole-genome sequences of two B. cereus strains isolated from air samples and analyse their emetic and diarrheal potential.

Results

Genome assemblies of the B. cereus strains consist of one chromosome and seven plasmids each. The genome size of strain SGAir0260 is 6.30-Mb with 6590 predicted coding sequences (CDS) and strain SGAir0263 is 6.47-Mb with 6811 predicted CDS. Macrosynteny analysis showed 99% collinearity between the strains isolated from air and 90.2% with the reference genome. Comparative genomics with 57 complete B. cereus genomes suggests these strains from air are closely associated with strains isolated from foodborne illnesses outbreaks. Due to virulence potential of B. cereus and its reported involvement in nosocomial infections, antibiotic resistance analyses were performed and confirmed resistance to ampicillin and fosfomycin, with susceptibility to ciprofloxacin, tetracycline and vancomycin in both strains.

Conclusion

Phylogenetic analysis combined with detection of haemolytic (hblA, hblC, and hblD) and non-haemolytic (nheA, nheB, and nheC) enterotoxin genes in both air-isolated strains point to the diarrheic potential of the air isolates, though not emetic. Characterization of these airborne strains and investigation of their potential disease-causing genes could facilitate identification of environmental sources of contamination leading to foodborne illnesses and nosocomial infections transported by air.
Bacterial contamination of neonatal intensive care units: How safe are the neonates?
Authors: Bhatta Dharm Raj , Hosuru Subramanya Supram , Hamal Deependra , Shrestha Rajani , Gauchan Eva , Basnet Sahisnuta , Nayak Niranjan , Gokhale Shishir
Published: January 2021

Background

Intensive care units (ICU) are essential healthcare facility for life threatening conditions. Bacterial contamination of objects/instruments in ICU is an important source of nosocomial infections. This study is aimed to determine the level of bacterial contamination of instruments/objects which are commonly touched by healthcare workers and frequently come in contact with the neonates.

Methods

This hospital based prospective study was conducted in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Manipal Teaching Hospital, Pokhara, Nepal. A total of 146 samples collected from surfaces of incubators, radiant warmers, suction tips, ventilators, stethoscopes, door handles, weighing machines, mothers’ beds, phototherapy beds, laryngoscope, telephone sets, blood pressure machine, etc. formed the material of the study. Isolation, identification and antibiotic susceptibility of the bacterial isolates was performed by standard techniques. Blood culture isolates from NICU patients during the study period were compared with the environmental isolates.

Results

Out of 146 samples, bacterial growth was observed in 109. A total of 119 bacterial isolates were retrieved from 109 samples. Three common potential pathogens isolated were Escherichia coli (n = 27), Klebsiella species (n = 21) and Staphylococcus aureus (n = 18). Majority of E. coli and Klebsiella isolates were from incubators, suction tips and mothers’ beds. Majority of S. aureus isolates were cultured from radiant warmers. Among S. aureus isolates, 33.3% (6/18) were methicillin resistant. Majority of the bacterial isolates were susceptible to gentamicin and amikacin. Common potential pathogens isolated from blood culture of NICU patients were S. aureus and Klebsiella species.

Conclusion

High degree of bacterial contamination of objects/instruments in NICU was recorded. Isolation of potential pathogens like E. coli, Klebsiella species and S. aureus is a major threat of nosocomial infections. Blood culture data of NICU reflects possibility of nosocomial infections from contaminated sites. Gentamicin and amikacin may be used for empirical therapy in suspected cases of nosocomial infections in NICU.
LncRNA APCDD1L-AS1 induces icotinib resistance by inhibition of EGFR autophagic degradation via the miR-1322/miR-1972/miR-324-3p-SIRT5 axis in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wu Jie , Zheng Chunlei , Wang Yizhe , Yang Zichang , Li Ce , Fang Wanxia , Jin Yue , Hou Kezuo , Cheng Yang , Qi Jianfei , Qu Xiujuan , Liu Yunpeng , Che Xiaofang , Hu Xuejun
Published: January 2021

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosinase kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) resistance is the major obstacle in the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients harboring EGFR-sensitive mutations. However, the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) related to EGFR-TKIs resistance and their functional mechanisms are still largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of lncRNA APCDD1L-AS1 in icotinib resistance of lung cancer.

Methods

Molecular approaches including qRT-PCR, MTT assay, colony formation, RNA interference and cell transfection, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), dual luciferase reporter assay, RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization, TUNEL assay, flow cytometry, immunoblotting, xenograft model and transcriptome sequencing were used to investigate the mechanism of APCDD1L-AS1 in icotinib resistance.

Results

A novel lncRNA, APCDD1L-AS1 was identified as the most significantly upregulated lncRNA in icotinib-resistant LUAD cells by the transcriptome sequencing and differential lncRNA expression analysis. We found that APCDD1L-AS1 not only promoted icotinib resistance, but also upregulated the protein expression level of EGFR. Mechanistically, APCDD1L-AS1 promoted icotinib resistance and EGFR upregulation by sponging with miR-1322/miR-1972/miR-324-3p to remove the transcription inhibition of SIRT5. Furthermore, SIRT5 elevated EGFR expression and activation by inhibiting the autophagic degradation of EGFR, finally promoting icotinib resistance. Consistently, the autophagy initiator rapamycin could decrease EGFR levels and increase the sensitivity of icotinib-resistant LUAD cells to icotinib.

Conclusion

APCDD1L-AS1 could promote icotinib resistance by inhibiting autophagic degradation of EGFR via the miR-1322/miR-1972/miR-324-3p-SIRT5 axis. The combination of autophagy initiator and EGFR-TKIs might serve as a potential new strategy for overcoming EGFR-TKIs resistance in LUAD patients.
Understanding social media beyond text: a reliable practice on Twitter
Authors: Hou Qixuan , Han Meng , Qu Feiyang , He Jing Selena
Published: January 2021

Social media provides high-volume and real-time data, which has been broadly used in diverse applications in sales, marketing, disaster management, health surveillance, etc. However, distinguishing between noises and reliable information can be challenging, since social media, a user-generated content system, has a great number of users who update massive information every second. The rich information is not only included in the short textual content but also embedded in the images and videos. In this paper, we introduce an effective and efficient framework for event detection with social media data. The framework integrates both textual and imagery content in the hope to fully utilize the information. The approach has been demonstrated to be more accurate than the text-only approach by removing 58 (66.7%) false-positive events. The precision of event detection is improved by 6.5%. Besides, based on our analysis, we also look into the content of these images to further explore the space of social media studies. Finally, the closely related text and image from social media offer us a valuable text-image mapping, which can enable knowledge transfer between two media types.
The effect of alcohol strength on alcohol consumption: findings from a randomised controlled cross-over pilot trial
Authors: Perman-Howe Parvati R. , Davies Emma L. , Foxcroft David R.
Published: January 2021

Background

Reducing the alcohol content of drinks has the potential to reduce alcohol consumption. The aims of this study are to (1) test the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to assess the effect of alcohol strength on alcohol consumption within licensed premises in the United Kingdom (UK), and to (2) provide data to estimate key parameters for a RCT.

Methods

This study is a double-blind randomised controlled cross-over pilot trial based within four licensed premises in the UK. Participants (n = 36) purchased and consumed ad libitum a 3.5% lager and a 4.8% lager during two separate study sessions. Descriptive statistics reported the efficacy and efficiency of the study processes, and the rates of licensed premises recruitment, and participant recruitment and attrition. Mean and the 95% confidence interval (CI) compared alcohol consumption between conditions. The mean, standard deviation (SD) and CI of UK units of alcohol consumed were used to calculate a sample size for a RCT. Responses to participant questionnaires and duration of participation in study sessions between conditions were analysed.

Results

Components of the study protocol were effective and efficient. The venue recruitment rate was less than anticipated. The participant recruitment rate was greater than anticipated. The rate of attrition was 23% and varied by less than 1% according to the arm of the trial. There was a reduction of alcohol consumed under the intervention conditions. Estimated mean difference, and 95% CI (UK units): − 3.76 (− 5.01 to − 2.52). The sample size required for a RCT is 53. Participants did not find one lager more pleasant in taste: (on a scale of one to 10) − 0.95 (− 2.11 to 0.21). Participants found the reduced-strength lager less enjoyable: (on a scale of one to 10) − 1.44 (− 2.64 to − 0.24) and they perceived themselves to be less intoxicated after consuming it: (on a scale of one to 10) − 1.00 (− 1.61 to − 0.40).

Conclusion

A RCT is feasible with minor alterations to the study protocol and scoping work to establish different brands of alcohol that are more alike and more enjoyable than the products used in the pilot trial.

Trial registration

Registered in the American Economic Association (AEA) Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) Registry as of 16 June 2017. Unique identifying number: AEARCTR-0002266.
City residents, scientists and policy-makers: power in co-producing knowledge
Authors: Buyana Kareem , Walubwa Jacqueline , Mukwaya Paul , Lwasa Shuaib , Owuor Samuel
Published: January 2021

The need to merge scientific with societal knowledge in addressing global sustainability challenges has deepened research on a methodology known as co-producing knowledge. It differs from participatory approaches by holding potential for solution-oriented research through sustained relationships with actors across disciplines and sectors. Although there is growing recognition that power shapes interactions in co-producing knowledge, few studies have empirically grounded articulations of power in the context of urban sustainability. This paper draws on case study projects in Africa to discern the forms of power that are navigated by actors when co-producing locally grounded knowledge and solutions for urban sustainability. The projects include: localizing norms on sustainable energy in Kampala city Uganda; confronting coastal vulnerability in Durban South Africa; and upgrading informal settlements in Stellenbosch South Africa. The forms of power across the projects are: expert power by academics; statutory power for policy-makers; and the power of locally-embedded knowledge by city residents. Navigating these forms of power is possible, if boundary objects are used in dialogues on scalable solutions to sustainability challenges. The boundary objects in the case studies are: briquettes from organic waste as alternative cooking energy for households in Kampala; a locally-appropriate costal vulnerability index for visioning sustainable climate action in Durban; and an improved Shack dwelling for improving living conditions in Stellenbosch. These boundary objects interrupted the reproduction of unequal power relations, while demonstrating how hierarchies in co-producing knowledge can be flattened.
Spinal Cord Anatomy and Localization
Authors: Hardy Todd A.
Published: January 2021

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article focuses on clinically relevant teaching points in spinal anatomy and localizing the lesion in myelopathy.

RECENT FINDINGS

The principles underlying spinal cord lesion localization are well established, but improvements in MRI and the discovery of pathologic antibodies associated with causes of transverse myelitis distinct from multiple sclerosis, such as aquaporin-4 IgG and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein IgG, have assisted in diagnosis.

The spinal cord has a highly organized neuroanatomy of ascending and descending tracts that convey sensory, motor, and autonomic information. Using integration of clues from the patient’s history and neurologic examination, the effective clinician can distinguish spinal cord from peripheral nerve or brain pathology, often determine the level and parts of the spinal cord affected by a lesion, and focus on a likely diagnosis. The advent of MRI of the spine has revolutionized investigation of spinal cord disorders, but an important place for strong clinical acumen still exists in assessing the patient with a myelopathy.
Myelitis and Other Autoimmune Myelopathies
Authors: Lopez Chiriboga Sebastian , Flanagan Eoin P.
Published: January 2021

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article provides an update on the clinical diagnosis and management of immune-mediated myelopathies, including the relevance of imaging, ancillary testing with an emphasis on autoantibody biomarkers, recognition of myelitis mimics, and therapeutic approach.

RECENT FINDINGS

The imaging characterization of immune-mediated myelopathies and the discovery of neural autoantibodies have been crucial in improving our ability to accurately diagnose myelitis. The identification of autoantibodies directed against specific central nervous system targets has led to major improvements in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying inflammation in myelitis. It has also allowed distinction of these myelopathy etiologies from noninflammatory etiologies of myelopathy and from multiple sclerosis and provided insight into their risk of recurrence, treatment response, and long-term clinical outcomes. Prompt recognition and appropriate testing in the setting of acute and subacute myelopathies is critical as timely administration of immunotherapy can help improve symptoms and prevent permanent neurologic disability. A patient should not be classified as having “idiopathic transverse myelitis” without a comprehensive evaluation for a more specific etiology. Achieving the correct diagnosis and learning to recognize noninflammatory myelitis mimics is crucial as they have therapeutic and prognostic implications.

Identifying the clinical and radiographic features of immune-mediated myelitis and recognizing mimics and pitfalls will help clinicians treat confirmed autoimmune myelitis appropriately.
Hereditary Myelopathies
Authors: Fink John K.
Published: January 2021

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article guides clinicians in the clinical recognition and differential diagnosis of hereditary myelopathies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Rather than a disease, a disease process, or relating to specific cellular vulnerability, the term hereditary myelopathy refers to diverse inherited disorders in which major aspects of the clinical syndrome reflect disturbance of elements within the spinal cord (specifically, the dorsal columns and dorsal root ganglia, corticospinal tracts, and anterior horn cells). It is important to note that the clinical features of almost all hereditary myelopathies reflect not only disturbance of elements within the spinal cord but also disturbance of extraspinal structures (particularly, but not limited to, peripheral nerves and the cerebellum) and that these extraspinal clinical features can be very helpful in recognizing specific myelopathy syndromes. The value of classifying disorders as inherited myelopathies lies primarily in facilitating their clinical recognition and differential diagnosis. It is useful to recognize that many hereditary myelopathies conform to one of four clinical paradigms: (1) spinocerebellar ataxia, (2) motor neuron disorder, (3) leukodystrophy, or (4) distal motor-sensory axonopathy predominantly affecting the central nervous system. Although they are myelopathies, spinal dysraphisms such as spina bifida and myelomeningocele are not included in this context because they are not usually due to single-gene mutation and have low hereditability.

This article illustrates clinical paradigms of hereditary myelopathy with clinical examples emphasizing the spectrum, clinical recognition, and differential diagnosis of hereditary myelopathies.
Trust phenomenon and the crisis if trust in monocultural and cross-cultural communications
Authors: Bol'shunov A.
Published: February 2021

The article attempts to integrate existential, cultural, sociological and psychological approaches to the problem of trust based on the category "meaning". The phenomenon of trust is relevant because of the following fact: people are beings who are voluntarily at each other's disposal and, accordingly, are vulnerable to each other. A trust is an attitude in which this fundamental vulnerability is exchanged for humanity. That is why humanity is attributed to persons. At the same time, trust and mistrust are an integral aspect of the processes of meaning formation and embodiment. That processes are related to intersubjective meaning formations (intensional structures and contexts) of lifeworlds. Lifeworlds are spheres of human existence. First embodiment of the trust intensive structure is socio-cultural patterns and institutions. They are embodied in social meanings and people relations. The social sphere which trust embodies is the circulation of gifts (potlatch). Finally, relevant existential, socio-cultural and social meanings find embody in various subjective manifestations of trust. That occurs because people are participants in existential, socio-cultural and social relations mediated by their psychology. But a person can also obtain agency and enter the sphere of "absolute relations with the absolute" as in being, in which faith/trust becomes the very way of being.
Shame, guilt, time perspective, time of imprisonment and PTSD symptoms in sentenced motor vehicle accidents perpetrators – a preliminary report
Authors: Merecz-Kot Dorota , Wężyk Agata , Waszkowska Małgorzata , Andysz Aleksandra
Published: January 2021

Cel pracy

Badanie koncentrowało się na związku pomiędzy objawami PTSD, poczuciem winy związanym z traumą, perspektywą czasową, oraz skłonnością do poczucia winy/wstydu u osadzonych sprawców wypadków samochodowych. Przeanalizowano także związki pomiędzy długością kary, objawami PTSD i poczuciem winy związanym z traumą.

Metoda

Próba badawcza składała się z 37 osadzonych sprawców wypadków drogowych. Poproszono ich o wypełnienie zestawu kwestionariuszy: Inwentarza Perspektywy Czasowej Zimbardo, Inwentarza Poczucia Winy i Wstydu, i Inwentarza Winy Związanej z Traumą.

Wyniki

Wyniki wykazały, że 50% sprawców spełniało kryteria DSM-5 dotyczące PTSD. Skłonność do poczucia winy i wstydu pozytywnie korelowała z poczuciem winy związanym z traumą. Podatność na poczucie wstydu jako konsekwencja negatywnej samooceny wiązała się także z większym poczuciem wstydu związanym z traumą. Nie wykazano korelacji pomiędzy skłonnością do poczucia winy/wstydu lub poczuciem winy związanym z traumą a objawami PTSD. Perspektywa czasowa wiązała się z objawami PTSD - im silniejsza u badanych była tendencja do koncentrowania się na teraźniejszości/przeszłości, tym większe objawy PTSD. Koncentracja na teraźniejszości pozytywnie korelowała z poczuciem winy związanym z traumą.

Wnioski

W badanej populacji co drugi sprawca wypadku dotknięty był PTSD, które wiązało się z przeszłą i teraźniejszą perspektywą czasową. Negatywna ocena siebie i swojego zachowania intensyfikowała poczucie winy związane z traumą i zmniejszała poszukiwanie usprawiedliwienia dla własnych czynów w okolicznościach zewnętrznych. Czas spędzony w więzieniu nie miał wpływu na postawę moralną i nie wpływał na moralną ocenę własnego zachowania, które spowodowało krzywdę innych osób. Wiązał się jednak z przeżywaniem stresu i skupieniem na własnym cierpieniu.
Severity of post-traumatic stress symptoms, level of experienced stress and coping strategies in mothers of children previously treated in the neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Aftyka Anna , Rozalska Ilona , Pawlak Aleksandra , Gorbaniuk Oleg
Published: January 2021

Cel pracy

Celem pracy było ustalenie modelu związku pomiędzy nasileniem objawów stresu pourazowego, poziomu odczuwanego stresu oraz strategiami radzenia sobie ze stresem u matek dzieci w przeszłości leczonych w Oddziale Intensywnej Terapii Noworodka.

Metoda

Anonimowe badanie kwestionariuszowe objęło 62 matki niemowląt w wieku od 3 do 12 miesięcy, które w przeszłości wymagały leczenia w oddziałach intensywnej opieki noworodków. Respondentki wypełniały kwestionariusz złożony ze standaryzowanych narzędzi badawczych: Zrewidowanej skali wpływu zdarzeń (IES-R), Kwestionariusza radzenia sobie ze stresem COPE i Skali odczuwanego stresu (PSS-10).

Wyniki

Nasilenie objawów stresu pourazowego wyjaśnia model składający się z czterech zmiennych: trzech strategii radzenia sobie ze stresem (koncentracja na emocjach i ich wyładowanie, zaprzeczenie, odwracanie uwagi), oraz odczuwanego stresu. Model ten wyjaśnia niemal 40% objawów zespołu stresu pourazowego. Odczuwany stres częściowo wpływa na PTSD poprzez jedną strategię – zaprzeczenie, która także wpływa na nasilenie objawów stresu pourazowego, niezależnie od postrzeganego stresu.

Wnioski

Koncentracja na emocjach i ich wyładowanie, zaprzeczenie, odwracanie uwagi i poziom odczuwanego stresu są potencjalnie modyfikowalnymi czynnikami, silnie związanymi z występowaniem PTSD. Wskazane jest planowanie, realizacja i ocena skuteczności interwencji dotyczących ograniczania dysfunkcyjnych strategii radzenia sobie ze stresem i odczuwanego stresu u matek niemowląt wymagających leczenia w Oddziale Intensywnej Terapii Noworodków. W celu zminimalizowania dystresu i poprawy radzenia sobie z leczeniem dziecka konieczna jest ocena efektów różnych metod wspierania rodziców.
Letter to the Editor. Psychological support provided by national nursing associations in pandemic. Polish ICU nursing experiences
Authors: Ozga Dorota , Krupa Sabina , Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska Wioletta , Knap Małgorzata , Witt Paweł
Published: January 2021

bez streszczenia
Editorial
Authors: Dudek Dominika , Sobański Jerzy , Klasa Katarzyna
Published: January 2021

bez streszczenia
The reception of Dr Ludwik Jekels’ “apostolic activity” to promote psychoanalysis in Poland before the outbreak of World War I. Part 2
Authors: Dembińska Edyta , Rutkowski Krzysztof
Published: January 2021

Celem artykułu jest analiza wpływu działalności doktora Ludwika Jekelsa na ziemiach polskich w latach 1909 -1914 na rozwój polskiej psychoanalizy. W drugiej części artykułu skoncentrowano się głównie na najbardziej aktywnym pod względem promowania psychoanalizy okresie w działalności Ludwika Jekelsa przypadającym na lata 1911-1912. Opisano publikacje książkowe Jekelsa: dwa przekłady dzieł Zygmunta Freuda oraz pierwszą polską książkę dotyczącą psychoanalizy „Szkic psychoanalizy Freuda”. Przeanalizowano reakcje, jakie te publikacje wywołały w środowiskach naukowych szczególnie związanych z lwowską szkołą psychologii. Dzięki dostępowi do niepublikowanych dotychczas materiałów po raz pierwszy szczegółowo opisano działalność dydaktyczną Jekelsa w Krakowie, Lwowie, a także całkowicie dotąd nieznane działania na rzecz promowania psychoanalizy na Śląsku Cieszyńskim. Wykładom Jekelsa towarzyszyły bardzo zróżnicowane reakcje publiczności, jednak środowisko lekarskie coraz silniej krytykowało psychoanalizę. Ukoronowaniem działalności Jekelsa był II Zjazd Neurologów, Psychiatrów i Psychologów Polskich w 1912 roku Krakowie. Stanowił moment kulminacyjny w dyskusji nad miejscem psychoanalizy w polskiej nauce. Artykuł prezentuje uczestników sesji psychoanalitycznej ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem wkładu dr Jekelsa, sposób prowadzenia dyskusji nad psychoanalizą, a także skutki zjazdu dla dalszego jej rozwoju. W podsumowaniu podjęto próbę oceny całościowego znaczenia działalności dr Jekelsa w Polsce.
Some properties of E(G,W,F_TG) and an application in the theory of splittings of groups
Authors:   São Paulo State University, Fanti E. L. C. , Silva L. S. ,   Federal Institute of Technology in São Paulo
Published: January 2021

Let us consider W a G-set and M a Z2G-module, where G is a group. In this paper we investigate some properties of the cohomological the theory of splittings of groups. Namely, we give a proof of the invariant E(G,W,M), defined in [5] and present related results with independence of E(G,W,M) with respect to the set of G-orbit representatives in W and properties of the invariant E(G,W,FTG) establishing a relation with the end of pairs of groups e˜(G,T), defined by Kropphller and Holler in [15]. The main results give necessary conditions for G to split over a subgroup T, in the cases where M=Z2(G/T) or M=FTG.
Decompositions of set-valued mappings
Authors:   Kyiv University, Protasov I.
Published: January 2021

Let X be a set, BX denotes the family of all subsets of X and F:X→BX be a set-valued mapping such that x∈F(x), supx∈X|F(x)|<κ, supx∈X|F−1(x)|<κ for all x∈X and some infinite cardinal κ. Then there exists a family F of bijective selectors of F such that |F|<κ and F(x)={f(x):f∈F} for each x∈X. We apply this result to G-space representations of balleans.
Endomorphisms of Clifford semigroups with injective structure homomorphisms
Authors:   Khon Kaen University, Worawiset S. , Koppitz J. ,   Institute of Mathematics and Informatics
Published: January 2021

In the present paper, we study semigroups of endomorphisms on Clifford semigroups with injective structure homomorphisms, where the semilattice has a least element. We describe such Clifford semigroups having a regular endomorphism monoid. If the endomorphism monoid on the Clifford semigroup is completely regular then the corresponding semilattice has at most two elements. We characterize all Clifford semigroups Gα∪Gβ (α>β) with an injective structure homomorphism, where Gα has no proper subgroup, such that the endomorphism monoid is completely regular. In particular, we consider the case that the structure homomorphism is bijective.
Some results on the main supergraph of finite groups
Authors:   Farhangian University, Asboei A. K. , Salehi S. S. ,   Islamic Azad University
Published: January 2021

Let G be a finite group. The main supergraph S(G) is a graph with vertex set G in which two vertices x and y are adjacent if and only if o(x)∣o(y) or o(y)∣o(x). In this paper, we will show that G≅PSL(2,p) or PGL(2,p) if and only if S(G)≅S(PSL(2,p)) or S(PGL(2,p)), respectively. Also, we will show that if M is a sporadic simple group, then G≅M if only if S(G)≅S(M).