bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing quality of care in patients admitted with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation
Authors: Tsao Megan , Laikijrung Chananid , Tran Alan , Pon Tiffany , Roach Denise , Liu Bo , Le Kathie
Published: January 2022

Objectives: Adherence to Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) treatment is variable in the inpatient setting. This study evaluates appropriateness of therapy in patients admitted to an academic medical center for AECOPD. Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study. The primary endpoint was proportion of patients who received appropriate AECOPD treatment within 24 h. Secondary endpoints included mean length of stay (LOS) and time to administration (TTA) of pharmacotherapy, 30-day readmission rates, and proportions of various ancillary care received. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Of 533 screened admissions, 163 were included. Of those included, 55% ( n = 90) received guideline-based therapy within 24 h of presentation. This group had significantly shorter mean LOS (3.48 ± 2.61 vs 4.53 ± 3.40 days, p = .026), fewer COPD-related readmissions (7 vs 14, p = .036), and numerically fewer all-cause readmissions (14 vs 19, p = .11). Mean LOS and TTA were 3.95 ± 3.02 days and 8.47 ± 12.77 h, respectively. Discussion: Timely and guideline-based delivery of medications was associated with shorter length of stay and fewer COPD-related readmissions. Establishing a standardized care plan through order set implementation may be one strategy to improve care and outcomes in AECOPD patients.
Arabic translation, cultural adaptation, and pilot-testing of multimorbidity self-management self-efficacy scales
Authors: Khraim Fadi , Munir Sadia , Johnson Jessie , Alqudah Maha , Kan’an Haitham
Published: January 2022

Objective

This study aimed to translate to Arabic language and culturally adapt the Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Diseases Scale (SEMCD) and The Perceived Medical Condition Self-Management Scale (PMCSMS).

Design

The translation of the two scales was conducted according to the framework by Beaton et al. Then, these scales were tested in a cross-sectional correlational study with 85 Arabic-speaking participants with multimorbidities in Qatar. Psychometric tests to assess the reliability and validity of the translated scales were done.

Results

The internal consistency reliability (α) for the Arabic version of both PMCSMS and SEMCD scales was 0.953 and 0.949, respectively. Correlation coefficient ( r) used to assess convergent validity between the PMCSMS and the SEMCD was 0.76 (p < 0.5). Number of morbidities negatively correlated with scores of self-management self- efficacy scores of the PMCSMS and the SEMCD ( r = −0.50 and −0.51, respectively).

Discussion

The translated PMCSMS and SEMCD are valid and reliable scales that can be used by researchers and healthcare providers to assess levels of self-efficacy among individuals with multimorbidities. The translated scales can be employed in research or interventional programmes that aim to improve self-management or self-efficacy among individuals with multimorbidities.
Palmar skin elasticity measured by the Cutometer MPA 580 is decreased in mild Dupuytren’s disease compared to healthy controls
Authors: Van Nuffel Maarten , Meulyzer Caroline , Gheysen Britt , Böhrer Arne , Anthonissen Mieke , Van den Kerckhove Eric , Degreef Ilse
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Involvement of the palmar skin is often seen in patients with Dupuytren’s disease (DD) with severe finger contractures. However, skin elasticity may be already decreased earlier in the disease. The Cutometer MPA 580 could provide an objective skin measurement tool to assess this decrease in elasticity. Linking objective skin measurements to functional outcome measures could lead to better prediction of disease progression. We set up a study to investigate if the Cutometer was able to detect differences in skin elasticity between patients with mild Dupuytren’s disease and healthy controls.

Methods

A cross-sectional analytical study was performed. Three assessors measured skin elasticity (palmar hand) on two sites using the Cutometer on 30 patients with mild DD and 30 healthy controls. Student’s t-test was used to evaluate differences in skin elasticity and a linear model to evaluate interactions between the groups and sites.

Results

Significant differences in skin elasticity were found between DD patients and controls, as well as differences based on the location examined.

Discussion

Similar to other skin conditions, the Cutometer MPA 580 was able to demonstrate a significant lower elasticity in the palmar skin in DD patients compared to healthy controls. A decrease in skin elasticity in different locations of the hand correlated with areas that often pose problems in the treatment of more severe DD. The Cutometer could potentially be a tool to identify these areas earlier in the disease.
Predictors of Academic Achievement in Dual Credit Students
Authors: Dyer Kelly , Childers Gina , Odell Michael R.L.
Published: January 2022

Enrollment in dual credit classes has increased over the last 10 years benefiting K-20 education and high school students in providing an opportunity to obtain college credits and increasing postsecondary education enrollment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the predictors of achievement through the lens of Social Cognitive Theory by documenting cognitive and noncognitive factors of dual credit students in grades 9–12 at an east Texas university charter school. The Noncognitive Questionnaire was used to measure the noncognitive characteristics, and the Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSI) reading and writing scores were used as the cognitive measurement. Multiple regression analysis, using weighted least squares, found TSI writing and positive self-concept to be significant predictors of achievement. The findings from this study could suggest states and districts to consider admission requirements for dual credit classes to include other cognitive and/or noncognitive artifacts for admission decisions.
Posting Back: Exploring Platformed Black Feminist Communities on Twitter and Instagram
Authors: Peterson-Salahuddin Chelsea
Published: January 2022

Black women have historically used unconventional, everyday spaces as sites of Black feminist intellectual production. Today, one of the most common spaces in which Black women produce intellectual thought is social media. However, very little research has broadly examined the dynamics of these online communities for Black feminist theorizing beyond individual hashtag conversation. In this study, I conducted 21 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with individuals who engaged in eight different Black feminist hashtag conversations across Twitter and Instagram to expand our current understanding of how Black feminist intellectual production has developed and broadened through the affordances of social media. Findings suggest that while Black feminist hashtag discussions have allowed Black women to “talk back” to hegemonic mainstream and popular discourses about Black women, these conversations are constantly at stake of appropriation and co-optation replicating historical erasure of Black women’s intellectual production.
Continuities and Discontinuities in the Cognitive Mechanisms Associated With Clinical and Nonclinical Auditory Verbal Hallucinations
Authors: Moseley Peter , Alderson-Day Ben , Common Stephanie , Dodgson Guy , Lee Rebecca , Mitrenga Kaja , Moffatt Jamie , Fernyhough Charles
Published: January 2022

Auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs) are typically associated with schizophrenia but also occur in individuals without any need for care (nonclinical voice hearers [NCVHs]). Cognitive models of AVHs posit potential biases in source monitoring, top-down processes, or a failure to inhibit intrusive memories. However, research across clinical/nonclinical groups is limited, and the extent to which there may be continuity in cognitive mechanism across groups, as predicted by the psychosis-continuum hypothesis, is unclear. We report two studies in which voice hearers with psychosis ( n = 31) and NCVH participants reporting regular spiritual voices ( n = 26) completed a battery of cognitive tasks. Compared with non-voice-hearing groups ( ns = 33 and 28), voice hearers with psychosis showed atypical performance on signal detection, dichotic listening, and memory-inhibition tasks but intact performance on the source-monitoring task. NCVH participants, however, showed only atypical signal detection, which suggests differences between clinical and nonclinical voice hearers potentially related to attentional control and inhibition. These findings suggest that at the level of cognition, continuum models of hallucinations may need to take into account continuity but also discontinuity between clinical and nonclinical groups.
MODY5 Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 1ß (HNF1ß)-Associated Nephropathy: experience from a regional monogenic diabetes referral centre in Singapore
Authors: Hua Tan Clara Si , Ang Su Fen , Yeoh Ester , Goh Bing Xing , Loh Wann Jia , Shum Cheuk Fan , May Ping Eng Molly , Yan Lun Liu Allen , Wan Ting Chan Lovynn , Goh Li Xian , Subramaniam Tavintharan , Sum Chee Fang , Lim Su Chi
Published: January 2022

From our monogenic diabetes registry set-up at a secondary-care diabetes center, we identified a nontrivial subpopulation (~15%) of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) among people with young-onset diabetes. In this report, we describe the diagnostic caveats, clinical features and long-term renal-trajectory of people with HNF1B mutations (HNF1B-MODY). Between 2013 and 2020, we received 267 referrals to evaluate MODY from endocrinologists in both public and private practice. Every participant was subjected to a previously reported structured evaluation process, high-throughput nucleotide sequencing and gene-dosage analysis. Out of 40 individuals with confirmed MODY, 4 (10%) had HNF1B-MODY (harboring either a HNF1B whole-gene deletion or duplication). Postsequencing follow-up biochemical and radiological evaluations revealed the known HNF1B-MODY associated systemic-features, such as transaminitis and structural renal-lesions. These anomalies could have been missed without prior knowledge of the nucleotide-sequencing results. Interestingly, preliminary longitudinal observation (up to 15 years) suggested possibly 2 distinct patterns of renal-deterioration (albuminuric vs. nonalbuminuric chronic kidney disease). Monogenic diabetes like HNF1B-MODY may be missed among young-onset diabetes in a resource-limited routine-care clinic. Collaboration with a MODY-evaluation center may fill the care-gap. The long-term renal-trajectories of HNF1B-MODY will require further studies by dedicated registries and international consortium.
Enlarging Liver Mass: Inflammatory Pseudotumor in a Patient With Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Authors: Kanagalingam Gowthami , Dulymamode Khadija N. , Jafroodifar Abtin , Huda Syed A. , May Adriana , Masood Umair , John Savio
Published: January 2022

Inflammatory pseudotumors of the liver are rare, non-neoplastic liver tumors. Due to the nonspecific clinical presentation, imaging features, and histopathological findings, they can mimic malignant tumors requiring invasive diagnostics. We present a case of a 61-year-old female patient with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, hyperlipidemia, and polymyalgia rheumatica who had initially presented with abdominal pain for 3 weeks. Further workup showed normal liver chemistries and tumor markers: AFP and CA 19-9. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the abdomen showed a segment 6 lesion measuring 4.1 × 4.0 × 3.7 cm. A liver biopsy then confirmed the diagnosis of an inflammatory pseudotumor of the liver with negative IgG4. On follow-up imaging, a rapid growth of this liver lesion was noted. Laparoscopy was done but did not show any distinct liver lesion. Follow-up imaging confirmed a decrease in the size of the mass. Interestingly, the patient had been on a higher dose of steroids for her polymyalgia rheumatic leading up to the follow-up imaging. This is the first case of an inflammatory pseudotumor of the liver in a patient with polymyalgia rheumatica. With this case, we would like to increase the awareness for inflammatory pseudotumors of the liver as a differential diagnosis of liver lesions in patients with underlying autoimmune disorders.
Urban Africa 2050: Imagining Theological Education/Formation for Flourishing African Cities
Authors: de Beer Stephan
Published: January 2022

Africa’s staggering rate of urbanization and the silence of religion or theology in response form the backdrop of this article. Africa’s urban futures, up through 2050, are considered through the lenses of fifteen African cities and theological institutions in these cities. I employ a set of research questions, seeking to contribute theologically to a body of knowledge known as African urbanism. The article imagines theological education/formation in response to Africa’s urban explosion through exploring flourishing cities as an organizing imaginary, but also through outlining concrete embodiments and prospects for reimagining theological education/formation in African cities.
Reconciliation in Complex Spaces: Christian-Cultural Approaches to Reconciliation in Post-conflict Northern Uganda
Authors: Opongo Elias O.
Published: January 2022

This article explores the multiple and complex Christian-cultural dynamics of reconciliation advanced by Christian and cultural leaders. Based on field research conducted in northern Uganda, largely among the Acholi people, the study draws attention to different levels of convergence and divergence, harmony and tensions between and among Christian and cultural approaches to reconciliation, and the subsequent social capital generated from both of these approaches. The research demonstrates that Christian leaders drew attention to the biblical resources of forgiveness and reconciliation, whereas cultural rituals of reconciliation involved full acknowledgment of the wrong, healing, reparations, and compensations.
Empowered by the Holy Spirit to Serve the Least: Hawaii’s (Korean) Cedar Church
Authors: Ma Wonsuk , Ma Julie
Published: January 2022

This study probes how an immigrant Pentecostal church in Hawaii has undertaken a robust ministry of serving the suffering in the community. The most discernible spiritual trait is the church’s primary focus on Pentecostal beliefs and practices, especially divine healing. Such religious encounters and experiences have, in turn, brought an empowering effect to the believers. This spiritual foundation has supported the church leader’s commitment to serving the poor, which has resulted in the church’s extraordinary service programs. This case study also critiques skepticism regarding the possibility of a “reverse mission” of first-generation immigrant Christians.
Noxious deindustrialization: Experiences of precarity and pollution in Scotland’s petrochemical capital
Authors: Feltrin Lorenzo , Mah Alice , Brown David
Published: January 2022

This article introduces the concept of “noxious deindustrialization”—employment deindustrialization in areas where significantly noxious industries are still operating—and explores some implications of this paradox by studying community–industry relations in the Scottish petrochemical town of Grangemouth. In the heyday of “Boomtown Grangemouth” during the first three decades after World War II, there existed an implicit social contract between the local industry and community in which male fenceline residents had widespread access to secure and well-paid employment in the factories, but the community had to accept the related pollution and hazards. This social contract gradually declined since the late 1970s due to a combination of automation, rising qualification barriers and associated long-range recruiting, and outsourcing to a partially itinerant workforce. For the Grangemouth community, this trend led to the current situation of employment deindustrialization coupled with the continuing exposure to the socioenvironmental damage and hazards engendered by operating petrochemical plants. We argue that noxious deindustrialization—with its dystopian corollaries of rising inequality and precarity, cumulative environmental degradation, and loosening community ties—is happening both globally and in local areas and that Grangemouth is a dramatic example of noxious deindustrialization on a local level, where the phenomenon has put a strain on community–industry relations.
Ferroptosis-associated DNA methylation signature predicts overall survival in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Xu Yuanyuan , Hong Min , Kong Deyu , Deng Jun , Zhong Zhaoming , Liang Jin
Published: January 2022

Background

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a common cancer characterized by late diagnosis and poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to identify a novel ferroptosis-related DNA methylation signature as an alternative diagnosis index for patients with HNSCC.

Methods

Methylome and transcriptome data of 499 HNSCC patients, including 275 oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) samples, were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). An additional independent methylation dataset of 50 OSCC patients from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used for validation. As an index of ferroptosis activity, the ferroptosis score (FS) of each patient was inferred from the transcriptome data using single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. Univariate, multivariate, and LASSO Cox regression analyses were used to select CpG sites for the construction of a ferroptosis-related DNA methylation signature for diagnosis of patients.

Results

We initially inferred the FS of each TCGA HNSCC patient and divided the samples into high- and low-FS subgroups. Results showed that the high-FS subgroup displayed poor overall survival. Moreover, 378 differentially methylated CpG sites (DMCs) were identified between the two HNSCC subgroups, with 16 selected to construct a 16-DNA methylation signature for risk prediction in HNSCC patients using the LASSO and multivariate Cox regression models. Relative operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed great predictive efficiency for 1-, 3-, and 5-year HNSCC survival using the 16-DNA methylation signature. Its predictive efficiency was also observed in OSCC patients from the TCGA and GEO databases. In addition, we found that the signature was associated with the fractions of immune types in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), suggesting potential interactions between ferroptosis and TIME in HNSCC progression.

Conclusions

We established a novel ferroptosis-related 16-DNA methylation signature that could be applied as an alternative tool to predict prognosis outcome in patients with HNSCC, including OSCC.
Nomograms for predicting difficult airway based on ultrasound assessment
Authors: Wang Bin , Yao Weidong , Xue Qi , Wang Mingfang , Xu Jianling , Chen Yongquan , Zhang Ye
Published: January 2022

Background

Accurate prediction of the difficult airway (DA) could help to prevent catastrophic consequences in emergency resuscitation, intensive care, and general anesthesia. Until now, there is no nomogram prediction model for DA based on ultrasound assessment. In this study, we aimed to develop a predictive model for difficult tracheal intubation (DTI) and difficult laryngoscopy (DL) using nomogram based on ultrasound measurement. We hypothesized that nomogram could utilize multivariate data to predict DTI and DL.

Methods

A prospective observational DA study was designed. This study included 2254 patients underwent tracheal intubation. Common and airway ultrasound indicators were used for the prediction, including thyromental distance (TMD), modified Mallampati test (MMT) score, upper lip bite test (ULBT) score temporomandibular joint (TMJ) mobility and tongue thickness (TT). Univariate and the Akaike information criterion (AIC) stepwise logistic regression were used to identify independent predictors of DTI and DL. Nomograms were constructed to predict DL and DTL based on the AIC stepwise analysis results. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the accuracy of the nomograms.

Results

Among the 2254 patients enrolled in this study, 142 (6.30%) patients had DL and 51 (2.26%) patients had DTI. After AIC stepwise analysis, ULBT, MMT, sex, TMJ, age, BMI, TMD, IID, and TT were integrated for DL nomogram; ULBT, TMJ, age, IID, TT were integrated for DTI nomogram. The areas under the ROC curves were 0.933 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.912–0.954] and 0.974 (95% CI, 0.954–0.995) for DL and DTI, respectively.

Conclusion

Nomograms based on airway ultrasonography could be a reliable tool in predicting DA.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No. ChiCTR-RCS-14004539), registered on 13th April 2014.
Timed up and go test predicts mortality in older adults in Peru: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Ascencio Edson J. , Cieza-Gómez Gustavo D. , Carrillo-Larco Rodrigo M. , Ortiz Pedro J.
Published: January 2022

Background

While there is evidence about stablished risk factors (e.g., raised blood pressure) and higher mortality risk in older population, less has been explored about other functional parameters like the Timed Up and Go test and the Gait Speed in older people at low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to study these mobility tests as predictors of mortality in a population of older people in Peru.

Methods

Population-based prospective cohort study (2013–2020). Random sampling of people aged 60+ years in a community of Lima, Peru. Geriatricians conducted all clinical evaluations and laboratory tests were conducted in the local hospital. Participants were sought in the national vital registration system, and we collated cause (ICD-10) and date of death. We conducted a nested forward multivariate Cox proportional hazard model to identify all potential predictors of all-cause, communicable and non-communicable diseases mortality.

Results

At baseline, there were 501 older people (mean age 70.6 and 62.8% were women), complete follow-up information was available from 427 people. Mean follow-up time was 46.5 months (SD = 25.3). In multivariate models, the Timed Up and Go test was associated with higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02–1.09). For cause-specific mortality, history of heart disease (HR = 2.25; 95% CI: 1.07–4.76) and age in years (HR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01–1.09) were predictors of non-communicable diseases mortality.

Conclusions

In addition to established risk factors for mortality in older population, the Timed Up and Go test, a functional parameter, raised as a relevant predictor of all-cause mortality.
Recipient obesity as a risk factor in kidney transplantation
Authors: Scheuermann Uwe , Babel Jonas , Pietsch Uta-Carolin , Weimann Antje , Lyros Orestis , Semmling Katrin , Hau Hans-Michael , Seehofer Daniel , Rademacher Sebastian , Sucher Robert
Published: January 2022

Background

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of recipient obesity on the short- and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing primary kidney transplantation (KT).

Patients and methods

A total of 578 patients receiving primary KT in our department between 1993 and 2017 were included in the study. Patients were divided according to their body mass index (BMI) into normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2; N = 304), overweight (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2; N = 205) and obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2; N = 69) groups. Their clinicopathological characteristics, outcomes, and survival rates were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Obesity was associated with an increased rate of surgical complications such as wound infection (P < 0.001), fascial dehiscence (P = 0.023), and lymphoceles (P = 0.010). Furthermore, the hospital stay duration was significantly longer in the groups with obese patients compared to normal weight and overweight patients (normal weight: 22 days, overweight: 25 days, and obese: 33 days, respectively; P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that recipient obesity (BMI ≥ 30) was an independent prognostic factor for delayed graft function (DGF) (OR 2.400; 95% CI, 1.365–4.219; P = 0.002) and postoperative surgical complications (OR 2.514; 95% CI, 1.230–5.136; P = 0.011). The mean death-censored graft survival was significantly lower in obese patients (normal weight: 16.3 ± 0.6 years, overweight: 16.3 ± 0.8 years, obese 10.8 ± 1.5 years, respectively; P = 0.001). However, when using the Cox proportional hazards model, the association between recipient obesity and death-censored renal graft failure disappeared, after adjustment for important covariates, whereas the principal independent predictors of graft loss were recipient diabetes mellitus and hypertension and kidneys from donors with expanded donor criteria.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obesity increases the risk of DGF and post-operative surgical complications after primary KT. Appropriate risk-adapted information concerning this must be provided to such patients before KT. Furthermore, obesity-typical concomitant diseases seem to negatively influence graft survival and need to be considered after the transplantation of obese patients.
Prognostic significance of long non-coding RNA five prime to XIST in various cancers
Authors: Zhou Jian , Chen Junjie , Chen Ziyuan , Wu Gen , Zhou Zhen , Wu Tong , Wang Wanchun , Luo Yingquan , Liu Tang
Published: January 2022

Background

To observe the clinicopathological and prognostic value of long non-coding RNA five prime to X inactive specific transcript (lncFTX) in multiple tumors.

Methods

Eligible studies for lncFTX were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases from inception to December 01, 2020. Stata 12.0 software was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR)/hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). We used The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset to further investigate the differential expression and prognostic value of lncFTX.

Results

We included 11 studies involving a total of 1633 patients. The results showed that the expression of lncFTX was positively associated with advanced TNM stage (III-IV versus I-II) (OR = 2.30, 95% CI: 1.74–3.03,P < 0.05), lymph nodes metastasis (OR = 3.01, 95% CI: 2.00–4.52, P < 0.05), distant metastasis (OR = 3.68, 95% CI: 2.13–6.34, P < 0.05), and cancer mortality (HR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.20–2.81, P < 0.05). However, the expression of lncFTX was not associated with tumor differentiation (poor differentiation versus well or moderate differentiation) and vessel invasion of cancer. Subgroup analysis showed that the higher lncFTX expression was associated with shorter overall survival in cancer patients, regardless of the sample size and cancer type. No publication bias was found, and the sensitivity analysis results suggested that the main findings were robust. Elevated expression and prognostic significance of FTX were confirmed using TCGA dataset.

Conclusions

This study found that the expression of lncFTX was positively associated with advanced tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph nodes, distant metastasis and, cancer mortality, suggesting that lncFTX might be a potential prognostic biomarker for tumors.
Radiosynthesis of a novel antisense imaging probe targeting LncRNA HOTAIR in malignant glioma
Authors: Ren Jiongyu , Zhang Xiyuan , Cao Jiang , Tian Jiali , Luo Jin , Yu Yaping , Wang Fengkui , Zhao Qian
Published: January 2022

Background

Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) HOTAIR was amplified and overexpressed in many human carcinomas, which could serve as a useful target for cancer early detection and treatment. The 99mTc radiolabeled antisense oligonucleotides (ASON) could visualize the expression of HOTAIR and provide a diagnostic value for malignant tumors. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether liposome-coated antisense oligonucleotide probe 99mTc-HYNIC-ASON targeting HOTAIR can be used in in vivo imaging of HOTAIR in malignant glioma xenografts.

Methods

The ASON targeting LncRNA HOTAIR as well as mismatched ASON (ASONM) were designed and modified. The radiolabeling of 99mTc with two probes were via the conjugation of bifunctional chelator HYNIC. Then probes were purified by Sephadex G25 and tested for their radiolabeling efficiency and purity, as well as stability by ITLC (Instant thin-layer chromatography) and gel electrophoresis. Then the radiolabeled probes were transfected with lipofectamine 2000 for cellular uptake test and the next experimental use. Furthermore, biodistribution study and SPECT imaging were performed at different times after liposome-coated 99mTc-HYNIC-ASON/ASONM were intravenously injected in glioma tumor-bearing mice models. All data were analyzed by statistical software.

Results

The labeling efficiencies of 99mTc-HYNIC-ASON and 99mTc-HYNIC-ASONM measured by ITLC were (91 ± 1.5) % and (90 ± 0.6) %, respectively, and both radiochemical purities were more than 89%. Two probes showed good stability within 12 h. Gel electrophoresis confirmed that the oligomers were successfully radiolabeled no significant degradation were found. Biodistribution study demonstrated that liposome-coated antisense probes were excreted mainly through the kidney and bladder and has higher uptake in the tumor. Meanwhile, the tumor was clearly shown after injection of liposome coated 99mTc-HYNIC-ASON, and its T/M ratio was higher than that in the non-transfection group and mismatched group. No tumor was seen in mismatched and blocking group.

Conclusion

The liposome encapsulated 99mTc-HYNIC-ASON probe can be used in the in vivo, real-time imaging of LncRNA HOTAIR expression in malignant glioma.
High expression of S100A2 predicts poor prognosis in patients with endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Qinzhen , Xia Tianxiang , Qi Chenxiang , Du Jun , Ye Chunping
Published: January 2022

Background

S100A2, a member of the S100 protein family, is abnormally expressed and plays a vital role in multiple cancers. However, little is known about the clinical significance of S100A2 in endometrial carcinoma.

Methods

Clinicopathological data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC). First, the expression and prognostic value of different S100 family members in endometrial carcinoma were evaluated. Subsequently, the Kaplan–Meier plotter and Cox regression analysis were used to assess the prognostic significance of S100A2, while the association between S100A2 expression and clinical characteristics in endometrial carcinoma was also analyzed using logistic regression. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and a nomogram were constructed. The putative underlying cellular mechanisms were explored using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA).

Results

Our results revealed that S100A2 expression was significantly higher in endometrial carcinoma tissue than in non-cancerous tissue at both the mRNA and protein levels. Analysis of Kaplan–Meier plotter data revealed that patients with high S100A2 expression had shorter overall survival (OS) and disease specific survival (DSS) compared with those of patients with low S100A2 expression. Multivariate Cox analysis further confirmed that high S100A2 expression was an independent risk factor for OS in patients with endometrial carcinoma. Other clinicopathologic features found to be related to worse prognosis in endometrial carcinoma included age, clinical stage, histologic grade, and tumor invasion. Importantly, ROC analysis also confirmed that S100A2 has a high diagnostic value in endometrial carcinoma. KEGG enrichment analysis and GSEA revealed that the estrogen and IL-17 signaling pathways were significantly upregulated in the high S100A2 expression group, in which estrogen response, JAK-STAT3, K-Ras, and TNFα/NF-κB were differentially enriched.

Conclusions

S100A2 plays an important role in endometrial carcinoma progression and may represent an independent diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for endometrial carcinoma.
Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of COVID-19 vaccine and refusal to receive COVID-19 vaccine among healthcare workers in northeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Adane Metadel , Ademas Ayechew , Kloos Helmut
Published: January 2022

Background

Major efforts are being made to control the spread and impacts of the coronavirus pandemic using vaccines. Ethiopia began on March 13, 2021, to vaccinate healthcare workers (HCWs) for COVID-19 with the AstraZeneca vaccine. However, willingness to be vaccinated depends to a large extent on factors beyond the availability of vaccines. This study aimed to determine the rate of intention to refuse COVID-19 vaccination   and associated factors among HCWs in northeastern Ethiopia. northeastern, Ethiopia.

Method

An institution-based cross-sectional study  was employed among 404 HCWs in Dessie City, northeastern Ethiopia in May, 2021. Data were collected, checked, coded, entered into EpiData Version 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 25.0 for cleaning and analysis. The dependent variable was refuse to receive COVID-19 vaccination and the independent variables included socio-demographic factors, knowledge, attitudes and perceptions. A Binary logistic regression model was used to determine the association between vaccine refusal and the independent variables. From bivariate analysis, variables with p-values < 0.25 were retained for multivariable analysis. From multivariable analysis, variables with adjusted odds ratio (AOR), p-values <0.05 at 95% confidence interval (CI) were declared as factors significantly associated with refusal to be vaccinated among HCWs in Dessie City, northeastern Ethiopia.

Results

The proportion of HCWs with overall good knowledge, good perception, and positive attitudes about COVID-19 vaccination were 62.5%, 60.5%, and 52.3%, respectively; 64.0% of the HCWs wanted to be vaccinated while 36.0% said that they would refuse to do so. Multivariable analysis identified negative attitudes (AOR: 3.057; 95%CI [1.860 - 5.026]) and poor perceptions (AOR: 4.73; 95%CI [2.911 - 7.684]) about COVID-19 vaccines were significantly associated with refusal to be vaccinated for COVID-19. Nearly half (46.9%) of the HCWs stated that vaccines could worsen any pre-existing medical conditions and 39.5% of them thought that vaccines could cause COVID-19 infections.

Conclusion

The willingness of HCWs to get vaccinated against COVID-19 was relatively high among HCWs. Negative attitudes and poor perceptions towards the anticipated COVID-19 vaccination were significant factors to refuse to be vaccinated. Our findings may provide information for the management authorities and stakeholders to promote and improve attitudes, knowledge and perceptions towards COVID-19 vaccination uptake among HCWs.
Effect of care environment on educational attainment among orphaned and separated children and adolescents in Western Kenya
Authors: Apedaile Dorothy , DeLong Allison , Sang Edwin , Ayuku David , Atwoli Lukoye , Galárraga Omar , Braitstein Paula
Published: January 2022

Background

There are approximately 140 million orphaned and separated children (OSCA) around the world. In Kenya, many of these children live with extended family while others live in institutions. Despite evidence that orphans are less likely to be enrolled in school than non-orphans, there is little evidence regarding the role of care environment. This evidence is vital for designing programs and policies that promote access to education for orphans, which is not only their human right but also an important social determinant of health. The purpose of this study was to compare educational attainment among OSCA living in Charitable Children’s Institutions and family-based settings in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya.

Methods

This study analyses follow up data from a cohort of OSCA living in 300 randomly selected households and 17 institutions. We used Poisson regression to estimate the effect of care environment on primary school completion among participants age ≥ 14 as well as full and partial secondary school completion among participants age ≥ 18. Risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using a bootstrap method with 1000 replications.

Results

The analysis included 1406 participants (495 from institutions, 911 from family-based settings). At baseline, 50% were female, the average age was 9.5 years, 54% were double orphans, and 3% were HIV-positive. At follow-up, 76% of participants age ≥ 14 had completed primary school and 32% of participants age ≥ 18 had completed secondary school. Children living in institutions were significantly more likely to complete primary school (aRR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.10–1.28) and at least 1 year of secondary school (aRR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.18–1.39) than children in family-based settings. Children living in institutions were less likely to have completed all 4 years secondary school (aRR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.43–1.18) than children in family-based settings.

Conclusion

Children living in institutional environments were more likely to complete primary school and some secondary school than children living in family-based care. Further support is needed for all orphans to improve primary and secondary school completion. Policies that require orphans to leave institution environments upon their eighteenth birthday may be preventing these youth from completing secondary school.
Clinical clerkship students’ preferences and satisfaction regarding online lectures during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yagi Shusuke , Fukuda Daiju , Ise Takayuki , Yamaguchi Koji , Kusunose Kenya , Kadota Muneyuki , Kawabata Yutaka , Matsuura Tomomi , Soga Tomohiro , Yamada Hirotsugu , Soeki Takeshi , Wakatsuki Tetsuzo , Kawahito Shinji , Sata Masataka
Published: January 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented disruption in medical education. Students and lecturers had to adapt to online education. The current study aimed to investigate the level of satisfaction and future preference for online lectures among clinical clerkship students and elucidated the factors that affect these outcomes.

Methods

We selected a sample of 114 medical students undergoing clinical clerkship during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted onsite lectures before the pandemic and online lectures after the outbreak. A survey was conducted, and the sample included students and 17 lecturers. The average scores of total satisfaction and future preference related to online lectures were computed.

Results

Students’ scores on total satisfaction with online lectures and their future preference were higher than those for onsite lectures. Scores on the ease of debating dimension were low and those on accessibility of lectures in online lectures were higher than those in onsite lectures. There was no difference between the two groups in the scores on the comprehensibility and ease of asking questions dimensions. Results of the multiple regression analysis revealed that accessibility determined total satisfaction, and future preference was determined by comprehensibility as well as accessibility. Contrary to students’ future preferences, lecturers favored onsite lectures to online ones.

Conclusion

Online lectures are an acceptable mode of teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic for students undergoing clinical clerkship. Online lectures are expected to become more pervasive to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
Health beliefs and behaviors of livestock industry workers regarding Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in Northwest of Iran
Authors: Abazari Malek , Adham Davoud , Saghafipour Abedin , Taheri-Kharameh Zahra , Abbasi-Ghahramanloo Abbas , Asadollahi Javad , Pouya Amin Babaei , Asl Eslam Moradi
Published: January 2022

Background

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an acute, feverous disease that is caused by tick bites or humans’ direct contact with the blood and tissues of infected livestock and humans. The transmission of the disease is also possible via human-to-human contacts and nosocomial transmission is well described. The majority of patients suffering from this disease are slaughterhouse workers (including butchers), farmers, veterinarians and hospital staff. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the health behaviors of butchers regarding CCHF and study factors affecting such behaviors based on the health belief model.

Methods

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on 500 butchers in Ardabil Province in 2020 by a multistage sampling method. The participants of the study completed the researcher-made questionnaire of health belief model and health behaviors model relevant to CCHF. The collected data were then analyzed by descriptive statistical tests and linear regression analysis.

Results

The mean (SD) age of the participants was 44.4 (10.5) years, and 96% were males. Only 11.1% of the participants displayed acceptable disease-preventive behaviors. The validity and reliability of the developed questionnaire were confirmed. The results of the exploratory factor analysis showed that the constructs of the model explained 84% of the total variance. The results of the study revealed that among the variables of the health belief model, perceived susceptibility (p-value = 0.006, β = 0.152) and perceived barriers (p-value = 0.023, β = 0.14) were the strongest factors predicting disease-preventive behaviors regarding CCHF.

Conclusion

The results of the study showed that the health belief model can predict preventive behaviors for CCHF. Therefore, designing and executing interventions based on the results of this study may encourage such preventive behaviors in butchers.
PCSK9 inhibitor recaticimab for hypercholesterolemia on stable statin dose: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 1b/2 study
Authors: Xu Mingtong , Zhu Xiaoxue , Wu Junyan , Zhang Yuling , Zhao Dong , Wang Xuhong , Ding Yanhua , Cao Yu , Li Chengqian , Hu Wei , Sheng Jianlong , Luo Zhu , Zheng Zeqi , Hu Jinfang , Liu Jianying , Zhou Xiaoyang , Shen Aizong , Ding Xiaomei , Zhang Yongdong , Zhao Yonggang , Li Yijing , Zhong Sheng , An Shimin , Zou Jianjun , Yan Li
Published: January 2022

Background

Recaticimab (SHR-1209, a humanized monoclonal antibody against PCSK9) showed robust LDL-C reduction in healthy volunteers. This study aimed to further assess the efficacy and safety of recaticimab in patients with hypercholesterolemia.

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 1b/2 trial, patients receiving stable dose of atorvastatin with an LDL-C level of 2.6 mmol/L or higher were randomized in a ratio of 5:1 to subcutaneous injections of recaticimab or placebo at different doses and schedules. Patients were recruited in the order of 75 mg every 4 weeks (75Q4W), 150Q8W, 300Q12W, 150Q4W, 300Q8W, and 450Q12W. The primary endpoint was percentage change in LDL-C from the baseline to end of treatment (i.e., at week 16 for Q4W and Q8W schedule and at week 24 for Q12W schedule).

Results

A total of 91 patients were enrolled and received recaticimab and 19 received placebo. The dose of background atorvastatin in all 110 patients was 10 or 20 mg/day. The main baseline LDL-C ranged from 3.360 to 3.759 mmol/L. The least-squares mean percentage reductions in LDL-C from baseline to end of treatment relative to placebo for recaticimab groups at different doses and schedules ranged from −48.37 to −59.51%. No serious treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred. The most common TEAEs included upper respiratory tract infection, increased alanine aminotransferase, increased blood glucose, and increased gamma-glutamyltransferase.

Conclusion

Recaticimab as add-on to moderate-intensity statin therapy significantly and substantially reduced the LDL-C level with an infrequent administration schedule (even given once every 12 weeks), compared with placebo.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT03944109
Molecular characterization of Trypanosoma evansi, T. vivax and T. congolense in camels (Camelus dromedarius) of KSA
Authors: Al Malki Jamila S. , Hussien Nahed Ahmed
Published: January 2022

Background

Trypanosoma evansiis the leading infectiousTrypanosomaspp.in camels (Camelus dromedarius) present in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) that could lead to extensive economic losses. The present study was aimed to assess the prevalence rate ofT. evansiin Taif governorate, Makkah province, KSA using parasitological and molecular evaluations, and analyze their genetic relationship targeting internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) and variable surface glycoprotein (VSG) genes. For evaluation, we have used 102 blood samples of camels obtained from three different regions in Taif.

Results

Results show a considerable prevalence rate of trypanosomosis 2/102 (2.0%) according to Giemsa-stained buffy coat smear, and 16/102 (15.7%) according to touchdown PCR.T. evansi(n = 10/102, 9.8%) was the main infectious species found in camels thenT. vivax(n = 3/102, 2.9%). Mixed infections were detected in three camels withT. evansi,T. vivax, andT. congolense(n = 3/102, 2.9%). Regarding gender, the results indicate that female camels (11/66, 16.7%) show higher prevalence ofTrypanosomathan males (5/36, 13.9%). Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of ITS1 and VSG showed their relationships withT. evansiin other hosts from different countries.

Conclusions

In our peer knowledge, it is the first time to report a research-based prevalence of trypanosomosis in the camels of Taif governorate, Makkah province, KSA.
Measuring patient satisfaction in an outpatient psychiatric clinic. What factors play a role?
Authors: Romanowicz Magdalena , Oesterle Tyler S. , Croarkin Paul E. , Sutor Bruce
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Patient satisfaction is defined as the perception that one’s general health care needs are being met. Prior research suggests that positive patient satisfaction with health care facilitates the physician–patient relationship and enhances quality of life.

Objective

The primary purpose of this study was to assess patient satisfaction (as measured by the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ-18)) of patients observed by general psychiatry residents and to examine the effects of depression and anxiety on patient satisfaction. A secondary purpose was to explore the effects of three 1-h mentalization-based skills training sessions on the PSQ-18 scores of psychiatric residents. We hypothesized that depressive and anxiety symptoms would negatively impact patient satisfaction. We hypothesized that patients’ satisfaction scores would improve after mentalization training.

Methods

This was a prospective case–controlled study, enrolling adult patients (n = 157) referred for psychiatric assessment in a psychiatric resident outpatient clinic. The primary outcome was patient satisfaction as measured by the PSQ-18. This outcome was compared to anxiety and depression symptoms as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item scale (GAD-7) questionnaires. Outcome data from the PSQ-18 were compared among residents before and after they completed mentalization training. The data were analyzed with univariate analyses and multiple linear regression.

Results

Overall the patients were satisfied with clinician communication and interpersonal manner (4.21 ± 0.66 and 4.15 ± 0.69, respectively). The patients score on PHQ-9 was inversely related to their scores on time spent (TS) (p = 0.01) and accessibility/convenience (AC) (p = 0.0009) subscales of the PSQ-18. GAD-7 score was inversely related to patients scores on AC subscale (p = 0.01). Brief mentalization training for the providers did not impact patient satisfaction scores.

Conclusions

Our study reveals that depression and anxiety can negatively impact PSQ-18 patient scoring in psychiatric outpatients observed for the first time in a resident clinic. However, this study failed to show that a brief mentalization-based training could improve patient satisfaction scores that were already quite high at baseline.