bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Electromyographic Activity During Hip Extension Exercises Under Gravitational or Inertial Loading Conditions
Authors: Martín-San Agustín Rodrigo , Castillo-Ballesta Lorenzo , Llobat Sancho Javier , Esbri-Navarro Rubén , Sánchez-Barbadora Mariana
Published: April 2021

Background:

Hamstring injury prevention programs include strengthening, especially eccentric exercises using both gravitational and inertial loading. Inertial exercises are characterized by eccentric contractions of high intensity and velocity. This study aimed to analyze the muscular activation of the biceps femoris (BF), semitendinosus (ST), gluteus maximus (GM), and gracilis (GC) muscles during hip extension (HE) exercises performed under both gravitational and inertial loading conditions.

Hypothesis:

Inertial training would generate a greater activation of HE muscles than gravitational training.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

Fifteen resistance-trained men performed the unilateral straight knee bridge (SKB), 45° of HE, and stiff-leg deadlift (SDL) exercises under gravitational and inertial loading conditions. Concentric and eccentric phases were identified with a linear encoder. Differences between load types, exercises, and their interaction were examined to establish the electromyographic (EMG) activity of each muscle and BF/ST ratio.

Results:

In the concentric phase, inertial loading showed a higher normalized EMG than gravitational loading for BF, ST, and GM. SKB and HE activated BF and ST between 9.6% and 24.3% more than SDL. In the eccentric phase, the inertial modality achieved greater GM activation than the gravitational form (18.1%). BF activation was increased with HE and SKB as compared with SDL (24.4% and 16.4%, respectively), while ST activation was likewise enhanced with HE as compared with SDL (15.1%).

Conclusion:

Inertial training is more effective than gravitational training for the concentric activation of the hamstring muscles while SDL showed lower hamstring activation than HE and SKB. Therefore, HE and SKB with inertial loading should be taken into account in hamstring training programs.

Clinical Relevance:

Inertial training is more effective than gravitational training for the concentric activation of the hamstring muscles. HE and SKB with inertial loading should be taken into account in hamstring training programs.
Tissue Engineering of Cartilage Using Collagen Scaffold Enriched with Plant Polysaccharides
Authors: Uday Chandrika K. , Kacha Sapna , Nair Anuja S. , Jamwal Vijayishwer S. , Sandilya Shruti , Singh Shashi
Published: April 2021

Degenerative diseases associated with articular cartilage pose a huge burden on health care economics. The nature of the tissue involved and the changes therein do not allow self-healing; and most of these problems are progressive. Tissue engineering offers some solutions provided we focus on the right kind of cells and the appropriate surrounding niches created for a particular tissue. The present study deals with the formation of polysaccharide rich stable scaffold of collagen after cross-linking with oxidized gum arabic. The scaffold was tested for its biocompatibility and ability to support cells. The in vitro cytotoxicity of the scaffolds toward induced pluripotent stem cells and chondrocytes was evaluated. Evaluation of expression of lineage specific markers indicates differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells to chondrogenic lineage and maintenance of chondrocytes per se when grown in the scaffold. Animal studies were carried out to study the efficacy of the scaffold to repair the knee injuries. Cells along with the scaffold appeared to be the best filling, in repair of injured cartilage. These studies show that these scaffolds are potential candidates in applications such as tissue engineering of cartilage.
Intrapersonal Behavioral Coordination and Expressive Accuracy During First Impressions
Authors: Latif Nida , Human Lauren J. , Capozzi Francesca , Ristic Jelena
Published: April 2021

What factors influence how accurately we express our personalities? Here, we investigated the role of targets’ nonverbal expressivity or the intrapersonal coordination between head and body movements. To do so, using a novel movement quantification method, we examined whether variability in a person’s behavioral coordination was related to how accurately their personality was perceived by naive observers. Targets who exhibited greater variability in intrapersonal behavior coordination, indicating more expressive behavior, were perceived more accurately on high observability personality items, such as how energetic and helpful they are. Moreover, these associations held controlling for other indicators of overall movement, self- and perceiver-rated extroversion, as well as how engaging and likable targets were perceived to be. This provides preliminary evidence that variability in intrapersonal behavioral coordination may be a unique behavioral indicator of expressive accuracy, although further research that replicates these findings and examines the causal associations is needed.
BRAF p.V600E associated poly-neoplastic syndrome
Authors: Alhaj Moustafa Muhamad , Jiang Liuyan , Kuhlman Justin J , Jones Jeremy , Lou Yanyan , Sokumbi Olayemi , Tun Han W
Published: April 2021

We report a male patient who developed eight different cancers between ages 57 and 64. BRAF p.V600E mutation was detected in Langerhans cell histiocytosis, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, histiocytic sarcoma, melanoma, and adenocarcinoma of the lung. It was not detected in multiple myeloma, basal cell carcinoma, and papillary thyroid cancer. BRAF p.V600E was not detected in normal skin tissue biopsy indicating that BRAF V600E was a somatic mutation affecting cancer cells. The presence of eight different cancers with five of them positive for BRAF p.V600E in a single patient is unprecedented. This type of BRAF p.V600E-associated poly-neoplastic syndrome has never been reported in the medical literature.
Uterine smooth muscle tumour of uncertain malignant potential and in vitro fertilization treatment in an infertile patient
Authors: Olga Triantafyllidou , Stavroula Lila Kastora , Kounidas Georgios , Maria Papazian , Nikolaos Vlahos
Published: April 2021

The term smooth uterine muscle of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) indicates a group of uterine smooth muscle tumours that cannot be diagnosed unequivocally as malignant but does not fulfil the criteria for leiomyoma, or its variants. In this case, we present a woman treated for infertility who presented with an asymptomatic cervical mass, diagnosed as STUMP after three cycles of controlled ovarian stimulation. We reviewed the literature with particular emphasis on the effects of STUMP upon fertility, up-to-date guidance regarding the management of patients’ wishing fertility-sparing approaches and obstetric outcomes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of STUMP in a patient that has undergone multiple in vitro fertilization treatments as well as the first to provide a putative biological basis for the efficacy of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, in this patient group.
Illegal drugs in the UK: Is it time for considered legalisation to improve public health?
Authors: Dalgarno Phil , O’Rawe Steve , Hammersley Richard
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates options available to policy makers responding to the challenges of drug use in modern society, focussing on the UK. It investigates the failings of prohibition policy that has driven historic reactions to drugs, drug use and drug users globally, nationally and locally. This policy paradigm has been largely destructive and counter-productive and has led to a whole host of health and social problems. The authors have approached their investigation from a public health perspective, free from moral biases that have driven many policy initiatives until now. Many countries and regions of the world are rejecting prohibition as they move towards public health models in opposition to criminal justice responses, and this trend is continuing. Four policy models are examined; prohibition as the status quo; extension of prohibition to include alcohol and other drugs; decriminalisation; legalisation and regulation of all drugs. Each of these policy options are contested; none have universal support. However, given careful consideration, this paper proposes that our only way out of the public health and criminal justice crises that have been driven by drug policy globally is to adopt the more contentious option of legalisation and regulation of all drugs commonly used non medically.
The effect of reconstructive vaginal surgery on quality of life and sexual functions in postmenopausal women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse in intermediate-term follow-up
Authors: Karaca Suna Y
Published: April 2021

Objective

To compare sexual function and quality of life in women who underwent McCall culdoplasty versus sacrospinous ligament fixation for pelvic organ prolapse.

Materials and methods

This study was conducted in our urogyanecology clinic between July 2015 and June 2019. We included sexually active postmenopausal women who had undergone either McCall culdoplasty ( n:80 patients) or sacrospinous ligament fixation ( n:38 patients) procedure for threatened POP. Patients in both groups were matched according to age and body mass index. Sexual function between both groups was evaluated with the pelvic organ prolapse/urinary incontinence sexual function 12 patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and quality of life with the prolapse quality of life (PQOL) PROMs.

Results

Emotional domain was low in the McCall culdoplasty group (21.4 ± 10.1 vs. 30.8 ± 15.2; p = 0.03). There were no significant differences in other P-QOL domains. Pain during intercourse was more in the sacrospinous ligament fixation group (2.9 ± 1.6 vs. 1.3 ± 1.1; p = 0.04). The mean operation time in the McCall culdoplasty group was shorter than the sacrospinous ligament fixation group ( p = 0.03). There was no difference between the two surgical procedures performed in terms of intraoperative blood loss and hospital stay. The prevalence of recurrence in the McCall culdoplasty group was 6.2%, and that of sacrospinous ligament fixation was 5% ( p = 0.75) in one year follow-up.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that McCall culdoplasty has a more positive effect on QOL and sexuality than sacrospinous ligament fixation in appropriately selected patients. McCall culdoplasty could be considered as a good option in the treatment of advanced pelvic organ prolapse in elderly patients.
Magnetic resonance imaging of avascular necrosis of the femoral head: predictive findings of total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Väänänen Matti , Tervonen Osmo , Nevalainen Mika T
Published: April 2021

Background

Avascular osteonecrosis of the femoral head (AVNFH) is an ischemic condition which despite different treatments often leads to collapse of the femoral head and to total hip arthroplasty. However, the magnetic resonance imaging findings predisposing to disease progression and total hip arthroplasty are somewhat elusive.

Purpose

To evaluate the magnetic resonance imaging findings of AVNFH and to assess the patterns of findings which may predict total hip arthroplasty.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study was conducted with a total of 18 diagnosed AVNFH treated with core decompression combined with intraosseous stem cell treatment. After treatment, magnetic resonance imaging follow-ups were done at three-month and one-year follow-up or until total hip arthroplasty. Association Research Circulation Osseous classification and magnetic resonance imaging findings such as the size and the location of the AVNFH, bone marrow edema in femoral neck, effusion and subchondral fracture were evaluated.

Results

Hips advancing to total hip arthroplasty have more often bone marrow edema in femoral neck (90% vs. 0%), adjacent to necrotic lesion (100% vs. 43%) and in acetabulum (90% vs. 14%), but also subchondral fractures (70% vs. 0%), effusion (80% vs. 29%), and synovitis (80% vs. 14,3%). The greater size and the lateral weight-bearing location of the necrotic lesion also predicted future total hip arthroplasty.

Conclusion

Hips advancing to total hip arthroplasty have often a combination of pathognomonic AVNFH imaging findings compared to hips not advancing to total hip arthroplasty.
Adverse Outcomes Prediction for Congenital Heart Surgery: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Bertsimas Dimitris , Zhuo Daisy , Dunn Jack , Levine Jordan , Zuccarelli Eugenio , Smyrnakis Nikos , Tobota Zdzislaw , Maruszewski Bohdan , Fragata Jose , Sarris George E.
Published: April 2021

Objective:

Risk assessment tools typically used in congenital heart surgery (CHS) assume that various possible risk factors interact in a linear and additive fashion, an assumption that may not reflect reality. Using artificial intelligence techniques, we sought to develop nonlinear models for predicting outcomes in CHS.

Methods:

We built machine learning (ML) models to predict mortality, postoperative mechanical ventilatory support time (MVST), and hospital length of stay (LOS) for patients who underwent CHS, based on data of more than 235,000 patients and 295,000 operations provided by the European Congenital Heart Surgeons Association Congenital Database. We used optimal classification trees (OCTs) methodology for its interpretability and accuracy, and compared to logistic regression and state-of-the-art ML methods (Random Forests, Gradient Boosting), reporting their area under the curve (AUC or c-statistic) for both training and testing data sets.

Results:

Optimal classification trees achieve outstanding performance across all three models (mortality AUC = 0.86, prolonged MVST AUC = 0.85, prolonged LOS AUC = 0.82), while being intuitively interpretable. The most significant predictors of mortality are procedure, age, and weight, followed by days since previous admission and any general preoperative patient risk factors.

Conclusions:

The nonlinear ML-based models of OCTs are intuitively interpretable and provide superior predictive power. The associated risk calculator allows easy, accurate, and understandable estimation of individual patient risks, in the theoretical framework of the average performance of all centers represented in the database. This methodology has the potential to facilitate decision-making and resource optimization in CHS, enabling total quality management and precise benchmarking initiatives.
Lower Cardiovascular Reactivity Is Associated With More Childhood Adversity and Poorer Midlife Health: Replicated Findings From the Dunedin and MIDUS Cohorts
Authors: Bourassa Kyle J. , Moffitt Terrie E. , Harrington HonaLee , Houts Renate , Poulton Richie , Ramrakha Sandhya , Caspi Avshalom
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular reactivity has been proposed as a biomarker linking childhood adversity and poorer health. In the current study, we examined the association of childhood adversity, cardiovascular reactivity, and health in the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study ( n = 922) and Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) studies ( n = 1,015). In both studies, participants who experienced more childhood adversity had lower cardiovascular reactivity. In addition, people with lower cardiovascular reactivity had poorer self-reported health and greater inflammation. Dunedin participants with lower cardiovascular reactivity were aging biologically faster, and MIDUS participants with lower heart rate reactivity had increased risk of early mortality. Cardiovascular reactivity was not associated with hypertension in either study. Results were partially accounted for by greater reactivity among more conscientious, less depressed, and higher functioning participants. These results suggest that people who experienced childhood adversity have a blunted physiological response, which is associated with poorer health. The findings highlight the importance of accounting for individual differences when assessing cardiovascular reactivity using cognitive stressor tasks.
Lowest Instrumented Vertebra Selection to S1 or Ilium Versus L4 or L5 in Adult Spinal Deformity: Factors for Consideration in 349 Patients With a Mean 46-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Yao Yu-Cheng , Kim Han Jo , Bannwarth Mathieu , Smith Justin , Bess Shay , Klineberg Eric , Ames Christopher P. , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Burton Douglas , Gupta Munish , Mundis Gregory M. , Hostin Richard , Schwab Frank , Lafage Virginie
Published: April 2021

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

To compare the outcomes of patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD) following spinal fusion with the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) at L4/L5 versus S1/ilium.

Methods:

A multicenter ASD database was evaluated. Patients were categorized into 2 groups based on LIV levels—groups L (fusion to L4/L5) and S (fusion to S1/ilium). Both groups were propensity matched by age and preoperative radiographic alignments. Patient demographics, operative details, radiographic parameters, revision rates, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores were compared.

Results:

Overall, 349 patients had complete data, with a mean follow-up of 46 months. Patients in group S (n = 311) were older and had larger sagittal and coronal plane deformities than those in group L (n = 38). After matching, 28 patients were allocated to each group with similar demographic, radiographic, and clinical parameters. Sagittal alignment restoration at postoperative week 6 was significantly better in group S than in group L, but it was similar in both groups at the 2-year follow-up. Fusion to S1/ilium involved a longer operating time, higher PJK rates, and greater PJK angles than that to L4/L5. There were no significant differences in the complication and revision rates between the groups. Both groups showed significant improvements in HRQOL scores.

Conclusions:

Fusion to S1/ilium had better sagittal alignment restoration at postoperative week 6 and involved higher PJK rates and greater PJK angles than that to L4/L5. The clinical outcomes and rates of revision surgery and complications were similar between the groups.
Establishment of a New Model of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration With Pathological Characteristics
Authors: Jin Yongming , Mao Guangfeng , Yang Chen , Xia Chen , Chen Chuyong , Shi Fangfang , Chen Qi
Published: April 2021

Study Design:

A prospective study.

Objectives:

Intervertebral disc degenerative disease is a common and frequently-occurring disease in adults and is the main cause of lower back pain. However, there is a lack of universal animal models to study disc degeneration.

Methods:

Forty-two male New Zealand white rabbits aged 12 months were used in this study. We established an endplate ischemic disc degeneration model though surgical ligation of rabbit lumbar vertebral body segment arteries. Two weeks after surgery, 6 experimental animals were randomly selected for follow-up tests. First, ischemia and lumbar disc degeneration were confirmed using imaging techniques. Then, immunohistochemical staining was performed to observe the growth of the annulus fibrosus. Finally, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and western blotting were used to detect mRNA expression and protein content of IL-1α, TNFα, collagen II, MMP-3, aggrecan, and PLA2 in the nucleus pulposus of the disc.

Results:

Imaging examination confirmed the successful construction of a lumbar disc degeneration model. Histological analysis and biochemical analysis showed a damaged intervertebral disc structure, and collagen II and aggrecan, the key extracellular matrix components of intervertebral discs, were reduced in synthesis and content. The synthesis and expression of IL-1α, TNFα, PLA2, and MMP-3 related to disc catabolism and inflammatory response were enhanced.

Conclusions:

We successfully constructed a lumbar disc degeneration ischemia model, which provides a novel approach to study the pathological mechanisms involved in discogenic low back pain and to prevent and treat discogenic low back pain.
Austerity Programs in Argentina and the Structural Continuity of Extractivism: A Feminist Perspective
Authors: Laterra Patricia , Eliosoff María Julia , Costantino Agostina
Published: April 2021

The government that took office in Argentina in December 2015 shaped a mode of development oriented toward finance and extractivism, trade and capital liberalization, and austerity policies. One of the main goals was to reduce the fiscal deficit and to lower domestic production costs in order to increase international competitiveness. Many measures implemented, such as the pension reform of 2017, budget cuts in gender-sensitive areas, and the change in the nature of social policies, had a differential impact on women and LGBT people when compared to men. However, beyond the measures taken by a particular government, the characteristics of extractivism and land concentration are structural dimensions with profound biases in their impacts in terms of gender.
Feasibility of Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) Implementation in Depok City, Indonesia
Authors: Amelia Tiara , Pratomo Hadi , Adisasmita Asri C. , Martha Evi , Rustina Yeni , Murty Ade Iva , Susilowati Indri Hapsari , Tambunan Eviana S. , Hasanah Indah Jamiatun
Published: April 2021

Background: The infant and neonatal mortality rate in Depok City is still high, with low birth weight (LBW) and premature births being one of the main causes. In 2018, 14 out of 41 cases of early neonatal death were due to LBW. Studies show that Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) can prevent or reduce LBW deaths caused by hypothermia, but the implementation is still not evenly distributed. Objective: Describe KMC feasibility as a supporting material for a KMC policy umbrella at Depok City. Method: Qualitative research was conducted with a Rapid Assessment Procedure (RAP) design. A total of 56 informants were divided into 8 discussion groups, 7 in-depth interviews and 2 Focus Group Discussions (FGD). The types of informants were families and inter-sectoral officers. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Results: KMC implementation feasibility in Depok City in terms of facilities and infrastructure was still limited and the quality was insufficient. The number of human resources was still limited, and the competency was still not evenly distributed. LBW family readiness can be maintained if provided with complete and accurate knowledge; therefore, a strong commitment may develop to continue KMC at home. The potential sources of KMC financing are found at health facilities and inter-sectoral; however, to use it, a legal umbrella at the city district level is necessary. Conclusions: The factors of potential financing sources need to be followed up into a priority. This is to overcome the constraints of KMC feasibility implementation.
Individual differences in theta-band oscillations in a spatial memory network revealed by electroencephalography predict rapid place learning
Authors: Bauer Markus , Buckley Matthew G. , Bast Tobias
Published: April 2021

Spatial memory has been closely related to the medial temporal lobe and theta oscillations are thought to play a key role. However, it remains difficult to investigate medial temporal lobe activation related to spatial memory with non-invasive electrophysiological methods in humans. Here, we combined the virtual delayed-matching-to-place task, reverse-translated from the watermaze delayed-matching-to-place task in rats, with high-density electroencephalography recordings. Healthy young volunteers performed this computerised task in a virtual circular arena, which contained a hidden target whose location moved to a new place every four trials, allowing the assessment of rapid memory formation. Using behavioural measures as predictor variables for source reconstructed frequency-specific electroencephalography power, we found that inter-individual differences in ‘search preference’ during ‘probe trials’, a measure of one-trial place learning known from rodent studies to be particularly hippocampus-dependent, correlated predominantly with distinct theta-band oscillations (approximately 7 Hz), particularly in the right temporal lobe, the right striatum and inferior occipital cortex or cerebellum. This pattern was found during both encoding and retrieval/expression, but not in control analyses and could not be explained by motor confounds. Alpha-activity in sensorimotor and parietal cortex contralateral to the hand used for navigation also correlated (inversely) with search preference. This latter finding likely reflects movement-related factors associated with task performance, as well as a frequency difference in (ongoing) alpha-rhythm for high-performers versus low-performers that may contribute to these results indirectly. Relating inter-individual differences in ongoing brain activity to behaviour in a continuous rapid place-learning task that is suitable for a variety of populations, we could demonstrate that memory-related theta-band activity in temporal lobe can be measured with electroencephalography recordings. This approach holds great potential for further studies investigating the interactions within this network during encoding and retrieval, as well as neuromodulatory impacts and age-related changes.
Comparison of penetrating keratoplasty and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty in keratoconus eyes with vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Feizi Sepehr , Javadi Mohammad Ali , Moshtaghion Seyed-Mohamadmehdi , Abolhosseini Mohammad
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of the study is to compare outcomes after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) against deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) for keratoconus in patients with vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC).

Methods:

Keratoconic patients with VKC who received PK ( n = 55, group 1) or DALK ( n = 62, group 2) were retrospectively enrolled. The Student’s t test, Mann–Whitney test, Fisher’s exact test, chi-square test, and Kaplan–Meier survival curve were used to compare outcomes between the groups.

Results:

The follow-up period was 59.4 ± 44.1 and 62.4 ± 38.9 months in groups 1 and 2, respectively ( p = 0.70). Postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity was 0.24 ± 0.18 and 0.29 ± 0.19 logMAR, respectively ( p = 0.13). Graft rejection occurred in 34.6% and 25.8% of eyes in groups 1 and 2, respectively ( p = 0.30). Groups 1 and 2 were comparable in the rates of cataract (3.6% and 12.9%, respectively, p = 0.07) and high intraocular pressure (3.6% and 8.1%, respectively, p = 0.31). Compared with the eyes with inactive VKC, PK eyes that experienced postoperative disease reactivation had a higher rate of suture abscesses (10.9% versus 50.0%, respectively, p = 0.01) and suture-tract vascularization (6.5% versus 33.3%, respectively, p = 0.03). Similarly, disease reactivation significantly increased suture abscesses from 27.3% to 51.7% ( p = 0.03) and suture-tract vascularization from 18.2% to 49.6% ( p = 0.005) in the DALK group. The graft survival rates were 95.3% in group 1 and 87.9% in group 2 at the 4-year follow-up, with mean durations of 14.4 and 11.1 months, respectively ( p = 0.20).

Conclusion:

The results indicate no difference in outcomes between PK and DALK for keratoconus in patients with VKC. Postoperative VKC reactivation increased the rate of suture-related problems after both techniques of keratoplasty.
The Biography of an Algorithm: Performing algorithmic technologies in organizations
Authors: Glaser Vern L. , Pollock Neil , D’Adderio Luciana
Published: April 2021

Algorithms are ubiquitous in modern organizations. Typically, researchers have viewed algorithms as self-contained computational tools that either magnify organizational capabilities or generate unintended negative consequences. To overcome this limited understanding of algorithms as stable entities, we propose two moves. The first entails building on a performative perspective to theorize algorithms as entangled, relational, emergent, and nested assemblages that use theories—and the sociomaterial networks they invoke—to automate decisions, enact roles and expertise, and perform calculations. The second move entails building on our dynamic perspective on algorithms to theorize how algorithms evolve as they move across contexts and over time. To this end, we introduce a biographical perspective on algorithms which traces their evolution by focusing on key “biographical moments.” We conclude by discussing how our performativity-inspired biographical perspective on algorithms can help management and organization scholars better understand organizational decision-making, the spread of technologies and their logics, and the dynamics of practices and routines.
Glut1 deficiency syndrome: New and emerging insights into a prototypical brain energy failure disorder
Authors: Tang Maoxue , Monani Umrao R
Published: April 2021

Considering its small size relative to the rest of the body, the mammalian brain has a disproportionately high energy requirement. This energy is supplied to the brain mainly in the form of glucose through the principal cerebral glucose transporter, Glut1. Inactivation of even a single copy of the Glut1 gene, SLC2A1, has dire consequences for the brain, starving cerebral neurons of energy and triggering the debilitating neurodevelopmental disorder, Glut1 deficiency syndrome (Glut1 DS). Considering the monogenic nature of Glut1 DS, the disease serves as an excellent paradigm to study the larger family of brain energy failure syndromes. Here we review how studies of Glut1 DS are proving instructive to the brain’s energy needs, focusing first on the requirements, both spatial and temporal of the transporter, second, on proposed mechanisms linking low Glut1 to brain dysfunction and, finally on efforts to treat the disease and thus restore nutritional support to the brain. These studies promise not only to inform mechanisms and treatments for the relatively rare Glut1 DS but also the myriad other conditions involving the Glut1 protein.
Ground motions in urban Los Angeles from the 2019 Ridgecrest earthquake sequence
Authors: Filippitzis Filippos , Kohler Monica D , Heaton Thomas H , Graves Robert W , Clayton Robert W , Guy Richard G , Bunn Julian J , Chandy K Mani
Published: April 2021

We study ground-motion response in urban Los Angeles during the two largest events (M7.1 and M6.4) of the 2019 Ridgecrest earthquake sequence using recordings from multiple regional seismic networks as well as a subset of 350 stations from the much denser Community Seismic Network. In the first part of our study, we examine the observed response spectral (pseudo) accelerations for a selection of periods of engineering significance (1, 3, 6, and 8 s). Significant ground-motion amplification is present and reproducible between the two events. For the longer periods, coherent spectral acceleration patterns are visible throughout the Los Angeles Basin, while for the shorter periods, the motions are less spatially coherent. However, coherence is still observable at smaller length scales due to the high spatial density of the measurements. Examining possible correlations of the computed response spectral accelerations with basement depth and Vs30, we find the correlations to be stronger for the longer periods. In the second part of the study, we test the performance of two state-of-the-art methods for estimating ground motions for the largest event of the Ridgecrest earthquake sequence, namely three-dimensional (3D) finite-difference simulations and ground motion prediction equations. For the simulations, we are interested in the performance of the two Southern California Earthquake Center 3D community velocity models (CVM-S and CVM-H). For the ground motion prediction equations, we consider four of the 2014 Next Generation Attenuation-West2 Project equations. For some cases, the methods match the observations reasonably well; however, neither approach is able to reproduce the specific locations of the maximum response spectral accelerations or match the details of the observed amplification patterns.
Effects of Anisotropy and In-Plane Grain Boundary in Cu/Pd Multilayered Films with Cube-on-Cube and Twinned Interface
Authors: Chen Xiang , Weng Shayuan , Yue Xing , Fu Tao , Peng Xianghe
Published: April 2021

In crystalline materials, grain boundary and anisotropy of crystal structure affect their mechanical properties. The effects of interfacial structure on the mechanical properties may be diverse when the multilayer film is loaded along different directions. In this work, we performed a series of molecular dynamics simulations of the tension of in-plane single and polycrystalline Cu/Pd multilayered films with cube-on-cube (COC) and twinned interfaces to explore the effects of the interfacial structure, loading direction and in-plane grain boundaries on their mechanical properties. The interfacial misfit dislocation lines become bent after relaxation, and the high temperature of 300 K was found as a necessary condition. When stretched along 〈110〉 direction, the strengthening effect of the COC interface is more noticeable; however, when stretched along 〈112〉 direction, the twin interface's strengthening effect is more visible, showing the anisotropic effect of interfacial structure on mechanical properties. However, in the in-plane honeycomb polycrystalline sample, the twin interface showed a pronounced strengthening effect, and no jogged dislocations were observed.
Management of peno-scrotal wound defects in a tertiary hospital in North-Western Nigeria: a 20-year retrospective review
Authors: Muhammad Abubakar Sadiq , Agwu Ngwobia Peter , Abduwahab-Ahmed Abdullahi , Umar Ahmed Mohammed , Musa Muhammad Ujudud , Abubakar Babagana Mustapha , Lgbo Jacob Ndas , Mungadi Ismaila Arzika
Published: April 2021

Background

Fournier’s gangrene and trauma to the external genitalia are the commonest causes of peno-scrotal wound defects in our environment. The management of these patients includes initial resuscitation and subsequent wound care with or without wound cover. The aim of this study is to document our experience in the management of peno-scrotal defects in a tertiary hospital of North-Western Nigeria.

Methods

This is a 20-year retrospective study of patients managed for peno-scrotal wound defects by the Urology Unit in the Department of Surgery of our hospital from January 2001 to December 2019. Data were collected from the patients’ case notes and entered into a proforma. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.0.

Results

A total number of 54 patients with peno-scrotal wound defects were managed within the study period with the mean age of 46.27 ± 22.09 years and a range of six weeks to 107 years. The wound defects were sequelae of Fournier’s gangrene in 42 patients (77.8%) and traumatic in 12 patients (22.2%). Healing by secondary intention was achieved in 20 patients (37.0%). Direct closure was done in 17 patients (31.5%), skin graft in nine patients (16.7%), and advancement flap in eight patients (14.8%) depending on the location and size of the defects. Fourteen patients (26.0%) developed surgical site infection ± wound dehiscence and partial graft loss. The complication rate was higher in post-Fournier’s gangrene wound defects, but without statistical significance (p = 0.018).

Conclusion

Fournier’s gangrene and trauma to the external genitalia are the commonest causes of peno-scrotal wound defects in our environment. Smaller wound defects were healed by secondary intention, while larger defects required either direct closure or the use of advancement flap or skin grafting depending on the location and size of the wound. The study reported a higher post-repair complication in patients that had Fournier’s gangrene.
Knock out of specific maternal vitellogenins in zebrafish (Danio rerio) evokes vital changes in egg proteomic profiles that resemble the phenotype of poor quality eggs
Authors: Yilmaz Ozlem , Patinote Amelie , Com Emmanuelle , Pineau Charles , Bobe Julien
Published: April 2021

Background

We previously reported the results of CRISPR/Cas9 knock-out (KO) of type-I and type-III vitellogenins (Vtgs) in zebrafish, which provided the first experimental evidence on essentiality and disparate functioning of Vtgs at different stages during early development. However, the specific contributions of different types of Vtg to major cellular processes remained to be investigated. The present study employed liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to meet this deficit. Proteomic profiles of zebrafish eggs lacking three type-I Vtgs simultaneously (vtg1-KO), or lacking only type III Vtg (vtg3-KO) were compared to those of wild type (Wt) eggs. Obtained spectra were searched against a zebrafish proteome database and identified proteins were quantified based on normalized spectral counts.

Results

The vtg-KO caused severe changes in the proteome of 1-cell stage zebrafish eggs. These changes were disclosed by molecular signatures that highly resembled the proteomic phenotype of poor quality zebrafish eggs reported in our prior studies. Proteomic profiles of vtg-KO eggs and perturbations in abundances of hundreds of proteins revealed unique, noncompensable contributions of multiple Vtgs to protein and in energy homeostasis. The lack of this contribution appears to have a significant impact on endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial functions, and thus embryonic development, even after zygotic genome activation. Increased endoplasmic reticulum stress, Redox/Detox activities, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, enrichment in cellular proliferation and in human neurodegenerative disease related activities in both vtg1- and vtg3-KO eggs were found to be indicators of the aforementioned conditions. Distinctive increase in apoptosis and Parkinson disease pathways, as well as the decrease in lipid metabolism related activities in vtg3-KO eggs implies compelling roles of Vtg3, the least abundant form of Vtgs in vertebrate eggs, in mitochondrial activities. Several differentially abundant proteins representing the altered molecular mechanisms have been identified as strong candidate markers for studying the details of these mechanisms during early embryonic development in zebrafish and possibly other vertebrates.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that the global egg proteome is subject to extensive modification depending on the presence or absence of specific Vtgs and that these modifications can have a major impact on developmental competence.
Influence of comorbidities on functional outcomes in patients with surgically treated fragility hip fractures: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yoon Soo Hoon , Kim Bo Ryun , Lee Sang Yoon , Beom Jaewon , Choi Jun Hwan , Lim Jae-Young
Published: April 2021

Background

The incidence and number of fragility hip fractures are gradually increasing, resulting in a wide consumption of medical resources. Various factors affecting functional recovery in patients with fragility hip fractures are known, and comorbid diseases are one of them. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of comorbidities on functional outcomes in patients surgically treated for fragility hip fractures, thereby contributing to the efficient distribution of medical resources.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study performed in the three tertiary rehabilitation facilities. A total of 211 patients (50 men and 161 women; average age 81.6 ± 6.7 years) who had undergone surgery for fragility hip fractures were followed up from immediately after transfer to the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine to 6 months postoperatively. Comorbidities referred to a summary of the following conditions: hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic liver disease, dementia, cerebrovascular accident, and osteoporosis. Functional outcomes included Koval’s grade, Functional Ambulatory Category (FAC), Functional Independence Measure (FIM)-locomotion, Modified Rivermead Mobility Index, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), 4-Meter Walking speed Test (4MWT), the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Examination(K-MMSE), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), EuroQol Five-Dimension (EQ-5D) questionnaire, the Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index (K-MBI), the Korean version of the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (K-IADL), and Korean version of Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illnesses, and Loss of weight scale (K-FRAIL). For all tests, each patient was assessed immediately after transfer and 6 months post-surgery.

Results

Multivariate linear regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, the initial variable of the functional outcomes, and comorbidities revealed that dementia had a significant negative impact on Koval’s grade and K-FRAIL 6 months postoperatively. Diabetes mellitus had a significant negative impact on the FAC, GDS, EQ-5D, K-IADL, and K-FRAIL 6 months postoperatively. Patients with osteoporosis showed a significant negative outcome of FIM-locomotion 6 months postoperatively. A cerebrovascular accident revealed a significant negative impact on the BBS 6 months postoperatively. In addition, hypertension led to significantly less favorable outcomes of the K-FRAIL 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

This study confirmed that comorbidities, particularly dementia and diabetes mellitus, significantly influence functional outcomes 6 months after fragility hip fracture surgeries.
Fatigue, anxiety, depression and sleep quality in patients undergoing haemodialysis
Authors: Al Naamani Zakariya , Gormley Kevin , Noble Helen , Santin Olinda , Al Maqbali Mohammed
Published: April 2021

Objective

Patients undergoing haemodialysis may experience troubling symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, depression and sleep quality, which may affect their quality of life. The main objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of fatigue, anxiety, depression and sleep quality among patients receiving haemodialysis during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and to explore the contributing predictors.

Methods

A cross-sectional and descriptive correlational design using Qualtrics software was performed. Data were collected using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Fatigue (FACT-F), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Logistic regression analyses were used to explore the predictors that were associated with fatigue, anxiety, depression and sleep quality.

Results

Of the 123 patients undergoing haemodialysis who participated, 53.7% (n = 66) reported fatigue, 43.9% (n = 54) reported anxiety, 33.3% (n = 41) reported depression and 56.9% (n = 70) reported poor sleep. Fatigue, anxiety and sleep quality (P < .05) were significantly associated with being female, and whether family members or relatives were suspected or confirmed with COVID-19. Logistic regression showed that being within the age group 31–40, having a secondary education level, anxiety, depression and sleep quality were the main predictors affecting the fatigue group.

Conclusion

Fatigue, anxiety, depression and sleep quality are significant problems for patients receiving haemodialysis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Appropriate interventions to monitor and reduce fatigue, psychological problems and sleep quality amongst these patients are needed. This can help to strengthen preparations for responding to possible future outbreaks or pandemics of infectious diseases for patients receiving haemodialysis.
Epiretinal membrane appearance or progression after intravitreal injection in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Taniguchi Hikari , Yoshida Izumi , Sakamoto Masashi , Maeno Takatoshi
Published: April 2021

Background

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the influence of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the appearance or progression of epiretinal membranes (ERMs) in age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) and investigate confounding factors causing ERMs.

Methods

Seventy-six eyes that were treated for more than 36 months from the first anti-VEGF injection were assessed. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed between smoking, lens status, subretinal hemorrhage, posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) status, peripheral retinal degeneration, type of AMD, conditions of contralateral eye, and the number of injections as independent variables and appearance or progression of ERMs during 36 months as dependent variables.

Results

The presence of vitreomacular adhesion (VMA) or development of PVD during the observation period was significantly associated (Odds ratio [OR]: 5.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.72–19.4; p = 0.005) with the appearance or progression of ERMs. Moreover, peripheral retinal degeneration was significantly associated (OR: 3.87; 95% CI, 1.15–13.0; p = 0.029). Injection number of anti-VEGF was not significantly associated (OR: 1.02; 95% CI, 0.90–1.16; p = 0.72).

Conclusion

This study suggests possibilities that anti-VEGF injections alone are unable to cause the development of ERMs, that VMA or developing PVD has a prior impact on the developing ERMs in ARMD similar to that of idiopathic ERMs, and that peripheral retinal degenerations and vitreomacular adhesion were both related to ERMs development and pathogenesis of ARMD.
Respiratory syncytial virus in severe lower respiratory infections in previously healthy young Ethiopian infants
Authors: Weldetsadik Abate Yeshidinber , Riedel Frank
Published: April 2021

Background

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is the commonest cause of acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI) in infants. However, the burden of RSV is unknown in Ethiopia. We aimed to determine the prevalence, seasonality and predictors of RSV infection in young infants with ALRI for the first time in Ethiopia.

Methods

We performed RSV immuno-chromatographic assay from nasopharyngeal swabs of infants, 29 days to 6 months of age. We included the first 10 eligible infants in each month from June 2018 to May 2019 admitted in a tertiary pediatric center. Clinical, laboratory and imaging data were also collected, and chi-square test and regression were used to assess associated factors with RSV infection.

Results

Among a total of 117 study children, 65% were male and mean age was 3 months. Bronchiolitis was the commonest diagnosis (49%). RSV was isolated from 26 subjects (22.2%) of all ALRI, 37% of bronchiolitis and 11% of pneumonia patients. Although RSV infection occurred year round, highest rate extended from June to November. No clinical or laboratory parameter predicted RSV infection and only rainy season (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 10.46 [95%. C.I. 1.95, 56.18]) was independent predictor of RSV infection.

Conclusions

RSV was isolated in a fifth of young infants with severe ALRI, mostly in the rainy season. Diagnosis of RSV infection in our setting require specific tests as no clinical parameter predicted RSV infection. Since RSV caused less than a quarter of ALRI in our setting, the other causes should be looked for in future studies.