bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of pre-stage cavitation on performance of double-nozzle flapper pressure servo valves
Authors: Zhang Jian , Qi Naiming , Qian Zhansong , Jiang Jihai
Published: May 2021

Cavitation is common in electrohydraulic servo valves and often adversely affects their performance. This study explores the influence of pre-stage cavitation on the performance of double-nozzle flapper pressure servo valves. The mechanism of cavitation is theoretically studied, a dynamic model of cavitation bubble motion is deduced, and the main factors affecting the development and variation of cavitation are determined. The software ADINA is used to establish a servo valve pre-stage fluid–structure interaction (FSI) model using the finite volume method. Cavitation is introduced to the model to conduct an FSI simulation of the influence of pre-stage cavitation on the performance of double-nozzle flapper pressure servo valves with nozzle diameters of 0.5, 0.55, 0.6, and 0.7 mm. An experiment on the servo valve is carried out to verify the simulation results. The simulation and experiment show that a nozzle diameter that is too small or large weakens the performance of a servo valve, and 0.6 mm is an ideal diameter; asymmetric double nozzles may reduce or improve the performance of a servo valve, and a combination of 0.6 and 0.55 mm nozzles is optimal; pre-stage cavitation influences the performance of a servo valve by changing the size and pressure gain of the dead zone; and excessive cavitation strength decreases or increases the dead zone and increases the pressure gain.
Ind-AS Enforcement in India: An Assessment of Readiness, Benefits and Key Challenges
Authors: Srivastava Anubha , Kulshrestha Preeti
Published: May 2021

This study endeavours to recognize the preparedness, advantages and pitfalls associated with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) enforcement in India. The data have been complied using purposive sampling technique from 75 accounting individuals from diverse corporate sectors of India, and the research findings of the article convey that the whole accounting community is extremely positive about the advantages related to IFRS enforcement, but they too considered challenges a major roadblock towards smooth implementation. There are few studies available reporting the readiness towards this high-quality international accounting standards in India, which intrigued the authors to evaluate the readiness level in the country regarding IFRS-based Ind-AS. The current accounting system in India calls for extensive training in terms of IFRS technicalities, seminars and workshops on a large scale should be embarked upon by all educational institutions, accounting regulatory bodies, accounting professional organizations such as ICAI, KPMG and other accounting experts to impart and share knowledge about IFRS for a smooth enforcement of IFRS.
Purposeful Use of High-Leverage Practices to Teach Number Sense
Authors: Gerzel-Short Lydia , Hedin Laura
Published: May 2021

High-leverage practices are essential components of specially designed instruction required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act. High-leverage practices such as explicit instruction and use of instructional and assistive technology have research evidence demonstrating their effectiveness when teaching students with learning and other disabilities. Although high-leverage practices are appropriate for many content areas, this article illustrates their use when teaching number sense. Number sense involves fluidity with (a) estimating and naming quantities, (b) evaluating accuracy of answers, (c) calculating mentally, and (d) drawing or representing problems. Development of number sense predicts later math achievement for students with and at risk for learning disabilities, making it an essential skill for teachers to address. Peppering common number sense activities with high-leverage practices enhances their impact for students with learning disabilities.
Cannabidiol and Sodium Channel Pharmacology: General Overview, Mechanism, and Clinical Implications
Authors: Ghovanloo Mohammad-Reza , Ruben Peter C.
Published: May 2021

Voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels initiate action potentials in excitable tissues. Altering these channels’ function can lead to many pathophysiological conditions. Nav channels are composed of several functional and structural domains that could be targeted pharmacologically as potential therapeutic means against various neurological conditions. Mutations in Nav channels have been suggested to underlie various clinical syndromes in different tissues and in association with conditions ranging from epileptic to muscular problems. Treating those mutations that increase the excitability of Nav channels requires inhibitors that could effectively reduce channel firing. The main non-psychotropic constituent of the cannabis plant, cannabidiol (CBD), has recently gained interest as a viable compound to treat some of the conditions that are associated with Nav malfunctions. In this review, we discuss an overview of Nav channels followed by an in-depth description of the interactions of CBD and Nav channels. We conclude with some clinical implications of CBD use against Nav hyperexcitability based on a series of preclinical studies published to date, with a focus on Nav/CBD interactions.
Survey Research With Families in the Context of Pediatric Chronic Health Conditions: Key Considerations and Future Directions
Authors: Hildenbrand Aimee K. , Van Schoors Marieke , Alderfer Melissa A.
Published: May 2021

Self-report family functioning measures play a critical role in advancing our understanding of how families are impacted by, and adapt to, the demands of childhood health conditions. In this article, we present key considerations when conceptualizing, assessing, and analyzing dynamic family processes in research; discuss related implications for selecting instruments; and provide an update on the evidence base of self-report family functioning measures. Researchers need to consider theory, definitions of the family, informants, instruments, and procedural and data analytic issues when designing family research. Examples of questionnaires assessing general family functioning, dyadic relationships, and family functioning within the context of pediatric health conditions are provided. Additional evidence of validity, reliability, clinical utility, and cultural sensitivity of these measures is needed within pediatric chronic illness populations. Future research should include multiple family members and utilize varied assessment methods to obtain a comprehensive understanding of family functioning in the context of pediatric health conditions.
Trumpocalypse and the Historical Limits of Higher Education Policy: Making the Case for Study/Struggle
Authors: Williams Leslie A. , Grande Sandy
Published: May 2021

This essay highlights the limits of liberal reform policies designed to increase access to higher education for minoritized and marginalized groups. First, we discuss Trump’s higher education agenda, focusing on his antipathy toward these populations and his commitment to White supremacy. We then focus on affirmative action in college admissions as an exemplar of a liberal racial equity policy, sketching its history, which illustrates its anemic effect, and White countermobilization against change that existed long before Trump. Next, we detail Trump’s efforts to eliminate this policy, which is part of the same populist, ethno-nationalist, anti-immigrant, anti-Black ideological campaign that has galvanized White voters across time. Ultimately, we argue that unbridled power won’t yield to liberal reforms. As such, we shift our focus to how higher education might be reimagined as a site of transformation, offering a series of provocations for a new horizon of racial equity in universities and society.
Fear of Crime Among Caribbean Women in University: A Qualitative Exploration Using the Free Association Narrative Method
Authors: Bailey Corin
Published: May 2021

Women attending university are generally at a heightened risk of victimization. As such, there is an emerging body of literature exploring fear of crime among them. Although several studies have explored this phenomenon quantitatively, relatively few have investigated fear of crime among this group of women in their own words. Using a sample of women at the University of the West Indies, this study seeks to address this gap. The study reveals strong support for the shadow of sexual assault theory as the women interviewed overwhelmingly describe their fear of crime against the background of their perceived vulnerability to rape.
Developing and Validating a Scale of Tourism Gentrification in Rural Areas
Authors: Wang Chaohui , Xu Yumei , (Christina) Zhang Tingting
Published: May 2021

In recent years, tourism gentrification has made great progress in rural areas and has had significant impacts on these areas’ development, specifically in the domains of the economy, living standards, community, culture, and environment. Tourists play a key role in developing tourism gentrification in rural areas, but research investigating tourism gentrification in rural areas from the tourist perspective is scarce. To fill this gap, we focus on tourism gentrification and develop a measurement scale from the tourist perspective through multiple qualitative and quantitative steps. Our findings confirm that tourism gentrification in rural areas from the tourist perspective comprises eight dimensions: economic growth, enhanced environment, enhanced living standards, individual civilization, improved communication, promoted social environment, cultural appreciation, and improved individual quality. Through development and validation of the scale, we hope to offer a comprehensive referencing index of tourism gentrification in rural areas to policy makers and rural tourism practitioners.
Extracellular Vesicle Proteome of Breast Cancer Patients with and Without Cognitive Impairment Following Anthracycline-based Chemotherapy: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Koh Yong Qin , Ng Ding Quan , Ng Chiu Chin , Boey Adrian , Wei Meng , Sze Siu Kwan , Ho Han Kiat , Acharya Munjal , Limoli Charles L , Chan Alexandre
Published: May 2021

Cognitive impairment due to cancer and its therapy is a major concern among cancer patients and survivors. Extracellular vesicle (EVs) composition altered by cancer and chemotherapy may affect neurological processes such as neuroplasticity, potentially impacting the cognitive abilities of cancer patients and survivors. We investigated the EV proteome of breast cancer patients with and without cognitive impairment following anthracycline-based chemotherapy from longitudinally collected plasma. EVs were cup-shaped and positive for Flotillin-1 and TSG-101. We identified 517 differentially expressed EV proteins between the cognitive impaired and non-impaired groups during and post-chemotherapy. The observed decreased expression of p2X purinoceptor, cofilin-1, ADAM 10, and dynamin-1 in the plasma EVs of the cognitive impaired group may suggest alterations in the mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity. The reduced expression of tight junction proteins among cognitive-impaired patients may imply weakening of the blood-brain barrier. These EV protein signatures may serve as a fingerprint that underscores the mechanisms underlying cognitive impairment in cancer patients and survivors.
Erosion wear behaviour of A357/fly ash composites
Authors: Bera Tanusree , Prakash Ved , Acharya Samir K
Published: May 2021

In this article, a new metal–matrix composite was developed with fly ash (an industrial waste from petroleum industries) as reinforcement and aluminium metal (A357) as a matrix by squeeze casting technique. This study was concentrated on the processing of the composites with different weight percentage ranging from 0 to 10 wt.% in a step of 2.5 each and also reported the erosion wear behaviour. Solid particle erosion of A357/fly ash composites was carried out with four velocities (48, 70, 82 and 109 m/s), at impact angles (30°, 45°, 60° and 90°), with silica as an abrasive particle at ambient temperature. The eroded surfaces were analysed by scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed that the impact velocity and impingement angle both affected the erosion wear behaviour of the composites. The erosion rate rises with an increase in impact velocity, irrespective of the change in impingement angle and weight percentage of the fly ash. The erosion mechanism studied for the composites is microploughing and microcutting.
‘The Jigsaw Culture of Care’: A qualitative analysis of Montessori-Based programming for dementia care in the United Kingdom
Authors: Raghuraman Shruti , Tischler Victoria
Published: May 2021

Aims

Montessori-Based Programming (MBP) in dementia care refers to a growing body of research and practice that has developed Montessori methods to facilitate self-paced learning, independence and engagement for people living with dementia. A number of research gaps have been identified in the existing literature such as a lack of cross-cultural studies and well-powered, robustly designed outcome studies. The current study investigated the use of MBP with a focus on provision in the United Kingdom. It aimed to identify MBP implementation approaches, challenges and barriers, and research gaps.

Design and Methods

A qualitative design was implemented to analyse data from in-depth, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders ( N = 8) with experience of MBP in the UK. Participants included care home management and staff, MBP trainers and independent dementia experts with a background in Montessori methods. Thematic analysis identified 4 main themes and 12 sub-themes. The study took place between April 2019 and October 2019.

Findings

A framework describing knowledge and understanding of MBP in the UK, implementation considerations, challenges and barriers, evidence of outcomes and research gaps was developed to provide guidance for researchers and practitioners. Implementation considerations included using a whole-home approach and changing the culture of care through management support. Barriers to implementation included conservative attitudes to care, perceived lack of time and resources, health and safety issues, and issues of sustainability.

Conclusion

The benefits of MBP in dementia care are promising but require further empirical investigation. There is a need to design, execute and publish evidence to secure the support of key stakeholders in dementia care research, policy and commissioning in the UK.
Combination of molecularly targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors in the new era of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma treatment
Authors: Liu Ze-Long , Liu Jing-Hua , Staiculescu Daniel , Chen Jiang
Published: May 2021

Multikinase inhibitors (MKIs) have been the only first-line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for more than a decade, until the approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Moreover, the combination regimen of atezolizumab (anti-programmed cell death protein ligand 1 antibody) plus bevacizumab (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor monoclonal antibody) has recently been demonstrated to have superior efficacy when compared with sorafenib monotherapy. The remarkable efficacy has made this combination therapy the new standard treatment for advanced HCC. In addition to MKIs, many other molecularly targeted therapies are under investigation, some of which have shown promising results. Therefore, in the era of immuno-oncology, there is a significant rationale for testing the combinations of molecularly targeted therapies and ICIs. Indeed, numerous preclinical and clinical studies have shown the synergic antitumor efficacy of such combinations. In this review, we aim to summarize the current knowledge on the combination of molecularly targeted therapies and immune checkpoint therapies for HCC from both preclinical and clinical perspectives.
Prognostic molecular biomarkers in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in the rituximab era and their therapeutic implications
Authors: Papageorgiou Sotirios G. , Thomopoulos Thomas P. , Katagas Ioannis , Bouchla Anthi , Pappa Vassiliki
Published: May 2021

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) represents a group of tumors characterized by substantial heterogeneity in terms of their pathological and biological features, a causal factor of their varied clinical outcome. This variation has persisted despite the implementation of rituximab in treatment regimens over the last 20 years. In this context, prognostic biomarkers are of great importance in order to identify high-risk patients that might benefit from treatment intensification or the introduction of novel therapeutic agents. Herein, we review current knowledge on specific immunohistochemical or genetic biomarkers that might be useful in clinical practice. Gene-expression profiling is a tool of special consideration in this effort, as it has enriched our understanding of DLBCL biology and has allowed for the classification of DLBCL by cell-of-origin as well as by more elaborate molecular signatures based on distinct gene-expression profiles. These subgroups might outperform individual biomarkers in terms of prognostication; however, their use in clinical practice is still limited. Moreover, the underappreciated role of the tumor microenvironment in DLBCL prognosis is discussed in terms of prognostic gene-expression signatures, as well as in terms of individual biomarkers of prognostic significance. Finally, the efficacy of novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of DLBCL patients are discussed and an evidence-based therapeutic approach by specific genetic subgroup is suggested.
A narrative review of current evidence supporting the implementation of electronic patient-reported outcome measures in the management of chronic diseases
Authors: Aiyegbusi Olalekan Lee , Nair Devika , Peipert John Devin , Schick-Makaroff Kara , Mucsi Istvan
Published: May 2021

An application of telemedicine of growing interest and relevance is the use of personal computers and mobile devices to collect patient-reported outcomes (PROs). PROs are self-reports of patients’ health status without interpretation by anyone else. The tools developed to assess PROs are known as patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs). The technological innovations that have led to an increased ownership of electronic devices have also facilitated the development of electronic PROMs (ePROMs). ePROMs are a conduit for telemedicine in the care of patients with chronic diseases. Various studies have demonstrated that the use of ePROMs in routine clinical practice is both acceptable and feasible with patients increasingly expressing a preference for an electronic mode of administration. There is increasing evidence that the use of electronic patient-reported outcome (ePROMs) could have significant impacts on outcomes valued by patients, healthcare providers and researchers. Whilst the development and implementation of these systems may be initially costly and resource-intensive, patient preferences and existing evidence to support their implementation suggests the need for continued research prioritisation in this area. This narrative review summarises and discusses evidence of the impact of ePROMs on clinical parameters and outcomes relevant to chronic diseases. We also explore recently published literature regarding issues that may influence the robust implementation of ePROMs for routine clinical practice.
Craving care in refugee camps
Authors: Abdulla Aqeel
Published: May 2021

Engaging refugees in development projects by the United Nations, or any other international aid organisation, should not be an elitist practice that presumes a hierarchy that places the organisation at the top and refugees at the bottom. For both ethical and pragmatic reasons, such projects and initiatives should take into consideration culture, religion, geography, politics, and social aspects when planning and delivering their services, otherwise their outreach and success will be hindered. This commentary looks at the emotional toll of diaspora on the Somali women interviewed for Bagelman and Gitome’s article, ‘Birthing Across Borders: “Contracting” Reproductive Geographies’, and contemplates the effects that this potentially has on the relationship between these women and health professionals in Dadaab, as well as their relationship with traditional Somali midwives.
Is a High Association Between Repetitive Negative Thinking and Negative Affect Predictive of Depressive Symptoms? A Clustering Approach for Experience-Sampling Data
Authors: Stefanovic Mina , Rosenkranz Tabea , Ehring Thomas , Watkins Edward R. , Takano Keisuke
Published: May 2021

A reciprocal relationship between repetitive negative thinking (RNT) and negative affect (NA) has been found in various types of psychopathology. Recent studies have suggested that the magnitude of this association can vary across time and individuals, which may inform future psychopathology. Here, we explored how these dynamics and interplays are manifested in student and general populations using a statistical clustering algorithm. Across three experience-sampling data sets, our clustering analyses consistently identified two groups of individuals; one group had a higher bidirectional association between RNT and NA (and also higher inertia) than the other group. Furthermore, a prospective analysis revealed that the group with the higher bidirectional association is at risk of developing depressive symptoms during the 3-month follow-up period if they had experienced high levels of NA over the experience-sampling phase. These findings suggest that the dysfunctional affective and cognitive dynamics would be a promising target of preventive intervention.
Systematic Comparison of Trial Exclusion Criteria for Pupillometry Data Analysis in Individuals With Single-Sided Deafness and Normal Hearing
Authors: Burg Emily A. , Thakkar Tanvi , Fields Taylor , Misurelli Sara M. , Kuchinsky Stefanie E. , Roche Joseph , Lee Daniel J. , Litovsky Ruth Y.
Published: May 2021

The measurement of pupil dilation has become a common way to assess listening effort. Pupillometry data are subject to artifacts, requiring highly contaminated data to be discarded from analysis. It is unknown how trial exclusion criteria impact experimental results. The present study examined the effect of a common exclusion criterion, percentage of blinks, on speech intelligibility and pupil dilation measures in 9 participants with single-sided deafness (SSD) and 20 participants with normal hearing. Participants listened to and repeated sentences in quiet or with speech maskers. Pupillometry trials were processed using three levels of blink exclusion criteria: 15%, 30%, and 45%. These percentages reflect a threshold for missing data points in a trial, where trials that exceed the threshold are excluded from analysis. Results indicated that pupil dilation was significantly greater and intelligibility was significantly lower in the masker compared with the quiet condition for both groups. Across-group comparisons revealed that speech intelligibility in the SSD group decreased significantly more than the normal hearing group from quiet to masker conditions, but the change in pupil dilation was similar for both groups. There was no effect of blink criteria on speech intelligibility or pupil dilation results for either group. However, the total percentage of blinks in the masker condition was significantly greater than in the quiet condition for the SSD group, which is consistent with previous studies that have found a relationship between blinking and task difficulty. This association should be carefully considered in future experiments using pupillometry to gauge listening effort.
Measuring the Influence of Noise Reduction on Listening Effort in Hearing-Impaired Listeners Using Response Times to an Arithmetic Task in Noise
Authors: Reinten Ilja , De Ronde-Brons Inge , Houben Rolph , Dreschler Wouter
Published: May 2021

Single microphone noise reduction (NR) in hearing aids can provide a subjective benefit even when there is no objective improvement in speech intelligibility. A possible explanation lies in a reduction of listening effort. Previously, we showed that response times (a proxy for listening effort) to an auditory-only dual-task were reduced by NR in normal-hearing (NH) listeners. In this study, we investigate if the results from NH listeners extend to the hearing-impaired (HI), the target group for hearing aids. In addition, we assess the relevance of the outcome measure for studying and understanding listening effort. Twelve HI subjects were asked to sum two digits of a digit triplet in noise. We measured response times to this task, as well as subjective listening effort and speech intelligibility. Stimuli were presented at three signal-to-noise ratios (SNR; –5, 0, +5 dB) and in quiet. Stimuli were processed with ideal or nonideal NR, or unprocessed. The effect of NR on response times in HI listeners was significant only in conditions where speech intelligibility was also affected (–5 dB SNR). This is in contrast to the previous results with NH listeners. There was a significant effect of SNR on response times for HI listeners. The response time measure was reasonably correlated ( R142 = 0.54) to subjective listening effort and showed a sufficient test–retest reliability. This study thus presents an objective, valid, and reliable measure for evaluating an aspect of listening effort of HI listeners.
Taxonomic variations in the gut microbiome of gout patients with and without tophi might have a functional impact on urate metabolism
Authors: Méndez-Salazar Eder Orlando , Vázquez-Mellado Janitzia , Casimiro-Soriguer Carlos S. , Dopazo Joaquin , Çubuk Cankut , Zamudio-Cuevas Yessica , Francisco-Balderas Adriana , Martínez-Flores Karina , Fernández-Torres Javier , Lozada-Pérez Carlos , Pineda Carlos , Sánchez-González Austreberto , Silveira Luis H. , Burguete-García Ana I. , Orbe-Orihuela Citlalli , Lagunas-Martínez Alfredo , Vazquez-Gomez Alonso , López-Reyes Alberto , Palacios-González Berenice , Martínez-Nava Gabriela Angélica
Published: May 2021

Objective

To evaluate the taxonomic composition of the gut microbiome in gout patients with and without tophi formation, and predict bacterial functions that might have an impact on urate metabolism.

Methods

Hypervariable V3–V4 regions of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene from fecal samples of gout patients with and without tophi (n = 33 and n = 25, respectively) were sequenced and compared to fecal samples from 53 healthy controls. We explored predictive functional profiles using bioinformatics in order to identify differences in taxonomy and metabolic pathways.

Results

We identified a microbiome characterized by the lowest richness and a higher abundance of Phascolarctobacterium, Bacteroides, Akkermansia, and Ruminococcus_gnavus_group genera in patients with gout without tophi when compared to controls. The Proteobacteria phylum and the Escherichia-Shigella genus were more abundant in patients with tophaceous gout than in controls. Fold change analysis detected nine genera enriched in healthy controls compared to gout groups (Bifidobacterium, Butyricicoccus, Oscillobacter, Ruminococcaceae_UCG_010, Lachnospiraceae_ND2007_group, Haemophilus, Ruminococcus_1, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, and Ruminococcaceae_UGC_013). We found that the core microbiota of both gout groups shared Bacteroides caccae, Bacteroides stercoris ATCC 43183, and Bacteroides coprocola DSM 17136. These bacteria might perform functions linked to one-carbon metabolism, nucleotide binding, amino acid biosynthesis, and purine biosynthesis. Finally, we observed differences in key bacterial enzymes involved in urate synthesis, degradation, and elimination.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that taxonomic variations in the gut microbiome of gout patients with and without tophi might have a functional impact on urate metabolism.
InterMiG: international differences in the therapeutic approach to migraine patients in specialized headache centers
Authors: Gago-Veiga AB , Huhn J-I , Latysheva N , Vieira Campos A , Torres-Ferrus M , Alpuente Ruiz A , Sacco S , Frattale I , Ornello R , Ruscheweyh R , Marques IB , Gryglas-Dworak A , Stark C , Gallardo VJ , Pozo-Rosich P
Published: May 2021

Background

There is currently a wide therapeutic arsenal for migraine patients, without a single first-line preventive drug and we choose the different available alternatives taking into account comorbidities, national guidelines, previous treatments and personal experiences.

Our objective was to evaluate the differences in the use of migraine treatments between neurologists from different countries.

Methods

This is a multi-centre observational study carried out by neurologists from specialized headache units in seven countries, retrospective with consecutive inclusion of all patients presenting with a migraine diagnosis, over a period of three months.

Results

A total of 734 patients were recruited but only 600 were considered in the analysis in order to homogenize the patient cohorts from countries: 200 Spain (ES), 100 Italy (IT), 85 Russia (RUS), 80 Germany (DE), 60 Portugal (PT), 45 Poland (PL) and 30 Australia (AU). 85.4 % of patients were women with a mean age of 42.6 ± 11.8 years. Considering previous and current preventive treatment, the order of use was: antidepressants (69.3 %), antiepileptic drugs (54.7 %), beta-blockers and antihypertensive drugs (49.7 %), OnabotulinumtoxinA (44.0 %) and others (36.2 %).

Statistically significant differences were found between all pharmacological classes: antidepressants were commonly used in all countries, with the exception of Poland (AU: 76.7 %, IT: 71.0 %, DE: 60.0 %, PL: 31.1 %, PT: 71.7 %, RUS: 70.6 %, ES: 78.5 %;p < 0.0001); antiepileptic drugs were more frequently prescribed in Portugal, Australia and Spain (AU: 73.3 %, IT: 40.0 %, DE: 37.5 %, PL: 48.9 %, PT: 85.0 %, RUS: 29.4 % and ES: 69.0 %;p < 0.0001); beta-blockers and antihypertensive drugs were frequently used in all countries except Italy (AU: 60.0 %, IT: 14.0 %, DE: 53.8 %, PL: 48.9 %, PT: 68.3 %, RUS: 49.4 % and ES: 59.0 %;p < 0.0001); BTX-A were predominately used in Spain, Italy and Australia (AU:56.7 %, IT:58.0 %, DE:20.0 %, PL: 42.2 %, PT: 26.7 %, RUS: 24.7 % and ES: 58.5 %;p < 0.0001) and others were most frequently used in Poland (AU: 0.0 %, IT: 19.0 %, DE: 42.5 %, PL: 95.6 %, PT: 31.7 %, RUS: 3.5 % and ES: 49.5 %;p < 0.0001). If only patients without comorbidities are considered (200/600), statistically differences between countries persist in all preventive treatments.

Conclusions

There is heterogeneity in the choice of preventive treatment between different countries. Prospective comparative studies of the different oral and subcutaneous alternatives would help to create a global therapeutic algorithm that would guarantee the best option for our patients.
Moonlighting protein prediction using physico-chemical and evolutional properties via machine learning methods
Authors: Shirafkan Farshid , Gharaghani Sajjad , Rahimian Karim , Sajedi Reza Hasan , Zahiri Javad
Published: May 2021

Background

Moonlighting proteins (MPs) are a subclass of multifunctional proteins in which more than one independent or usually distinct function occurs in a single polypeptide chain. Identification of unknown cellular processes, understanding novel protein mechanisms, improving the prediction of protein functions, and gaining information about protein evolution are the main reasons to study MPs. They also play an important role in disease pathways and drug-target discovery. Since detecting MPs experimentally is quite a challenge, most of them are detected randomly. Therefore, introducing an appropriate computational approach to predict MPs seems reasonable.

Results

In this study, we introduced a competent model for detecting moonlighting and non-MPs through extracted features from protein sequences. We attempted to set up a well-judged scheme for detecting outlier proteins. Consequently, 37 distinct feature vectors were utilized to study each protein’s impact on detecting MPs. Furthermore, 8 different classification methods were assessed to find the best performance. To detect outliers, each one of the classifications was executed 100 times by tenfold cross-validation on feature vectors; proteins which misclassified 90 times or more were grouped. This process was applied to every single feature vector and eventually the intersection of these groups was determined as the outlier proteins. The results of tenfold cross-validation on a dataset of 351 samples (containing 215 moonlighting and 136 non-moonlighting proteins) reveal that the SVM method on all feature vectors has the highest performance among all methods in this study and other available methods. Besides, the study of outliers showed that 57 of 351 proteins in the dataset could be an appropriate candidate for the outlier. Among the outlier proteins, there were non-MPs (such as P69797) that have been misclassified in 8 different classification methods with 16 different feature vectors. Because these proteins have been obtained by computational methods, the results of this study could reduce the likelihood of hypothesizing whether these proteins are non-moonlighting at all.

Conclusions

MPs are difficult to be identified through experimentation. Using distinct feature vectors, our method enabled identification of novel moonlighting proteins. The study also pinpointed that a number of non-MPs are likely to be moonlighting.
Re-examination of two diatom reference genomes using long-read sequencing
Authors: Filloramo Gina V. , Curtis Bruce A. , Blanche Emma , Archibald John M.
Published: May 2021

Background

The marine diatoms Thalassiosira pseudonana and Phaeodactylum tricornutum are valuable model organisms for exploring the evolution, diversity and ecology of this important algal group. Their reference genomes, published in 2004 and 2008, respectively, were the product of traditional Sanger sequencing. In the case of T. pseudonana, optical restriction site mapping was employed to further clarify and contextualize chromosome-level scaffolds. While both genomes are considered highly accurate and reasonably contiguous, they still contain many unresolved regions and unordered/unlinked scaffolds.

Results

We have used Oxford Nanopore Technologies long-read sequencing to update and validate the quality and contiguity of the T. pseudonana and P. tricornutum genomes. Fine-scale assessment of our long-read derived genome assemblies allowed us to resolve previously uncertain genomic regions, further characterize complex structural variation, and re-evaluate the repetitive DNA content of both genomes. We also identified 1862 previously undescribed genes in T. pseudonana. In P. tricornutum, we used transposable element detection software to identify 33 novel copia-type LTR-RT insertions, indicating ongoing activity and rapid expansion of this superfamily as the organism continues to be maintained in culture. Finally, Bionano optical mapping of P. tricornutum chromosomes was combined with long-read sequence data to explore the potential of long-read sequencing and optical mapping for resolving haplotypes.

Conclusion

Despite its potential to yield highly contiguous scaffolds, long-read sequencing is not a panacea. Even for relatively small nuclear genomes such as those investigated herein, repetitive DNA sequences cause problems for current genome assembly algorithms. Determining whether a long-read derived genomic assembly is ‘better’ than one produced using traditional sequence data is not straightforward. Our revised reference genomes for P. tricornutum and T. pseudonana nevertheless provide additional insight into the structure and evolution of both genomes, thereby providing a more robust foundation for future diatom research.
Brain natriuretic peptide and cardiac troponin I for prediction of the prognosis in cancer patients with sepsis
Authors: Yang Yong , Leng Jiahua , Tian Xiuyun , Wang Hongzhi , Hao Chunyi
Published: May 2021

Background

This article aimed to study the value of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and cardiac troponin I(cTnI) for predicting the prognosis in cancer patients with sepsis.

Methods

A cohort of 233 cancer patients with sepsis admitted to our ICU from January 2017 to October 2020 was included in this retrospective study. The data of BNP and cTnI on the first day (d1) and the third day(d3) after entering ICU, blood lactate (Lac), procalcitonin (PCT), Leucocyte and Sequential Organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores within 24 hr of entering ICU, the incidence of septic shock, acute kidney injury(AKI), acute respiratory failure (ARF) or sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction(SIMD) in ICU, fluid balance in 24 hr and 72 hr after entering ICU, time of mechanical ventilation(MV), length of stay, emergency surgery were collected. According to 28-day mortality, patients were divided into survival group (190 cases) and death group (43 cases). All the above variables were compared.

Results

BNP was an independent predictor for the mortality in these patients (P < 0.05).While cTnI was not. BNP on d3 in 681.5 pg/ml predicted the mortality with a sensitivity of 91.5 % and a specificity of 88.7 %. All patients were divided into the new two groups following the cutoff value of BNP on d3(681.5pg/ml), and the survival curve showed a significant difference with Kaplan-Meier analysis (P < 0.05). BNP had statistical differences between four groups based on the comorbidities(septic shock, AKI, ARF or SIMD), but cTnI was not.

Conclusions

BNP was a great predictor for the prognosis of cancer patients with sepsis, while cTnI was not.
Utilization of community health care centers and family doctor contracts services among community residents: a community‐based analysis in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Zheng Qingming , Shi Lu , Pang Tiantian , Leung Willie
Published: May 2021

Background

Family doctor contract services (FDCS) began in China in 2016. Shenzhen, one of the most developed cities in China, also implemented a family doctor (FD) policy in 2017. The objectives of this study were to identify the impact of awareness of FDCS and signing service contracts with FDs on utilization of community health care centers (CHCs).

Methods

Cross-sectional secondary data based on residents living in Luohu district was used for analysis. Descriptive analysis was conducted to identify utilization of CHCs by awareness of FDCS and signing service contracts with FDs, respectively. Linear probability models (LPM) were used to determine the association of utilization of CHCs with awareness of FDCS and signing service contracts with FDs, respectively.

Results

Among 1205 adults included in the analysis, 27 % of the participants knew about the FDCS, 5 % signed with FD, and 20 % had chronic disease. Both awareness of the FDCS and signing service contracts with FDs significantly increased the probability of using CHCs as a first choice.

Conclusions

This study provided evidence that both awareness of FDCS and signing service contracts with FDs had a positive impact on utilization of primary health care services at the community level. More interventions to improve awareness of FDCS are needed to increase the utilization of primary health care services.
Serum sodium in relation to various domains of cognitive function in the elderly US population
Authors: Lee Sohyae , Min Jin-young , Kim Beom , Ha Sang-Won , Han Jeohng Ho , Min Kyoung-bok
Published: May 2021

Background

Recent evidence suggests that sodium imbalances may be associated with cognitive impairment; however, the association between specific domains of cognition remains unclear. This study examines the association between serum sodium levels and immediate and delayed verbal memory as measured by the CERAD Word Learning Test (CERAD WLT), executive function as measured by the Animal Fluency test (AFT), and sustained attention, working memory, and processing speed as measured by the Digit Symbol Substitution test (DSST) in the elderly population of the US aged 60 and older who participated in the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (n = 2,541).

Methods

Cognitive function tests were performed by trained interviewers and sodium levels were measured using indirect ion selective electrode methodology.

Results

After adjusting for all covariates, quintiles of CERAD WLT scores showed significant positive associations with log-transformed sodium levels (Immediate recall (IR) β = 4.25 (SE = 1.83, p-value 0.027); Delayed recall (DR) β = 6.54 (SE = 1.82, p-value 0.001)). Compared to normal sodium levels, hyponatremia was significantly associated with lower CERAD WLT-IR (β = -0.34, SE = 0.15, p-value 0.035) and CERAD WLT-DR scores (β -0.48, SE = 0.10, p-value < 0.001) and showed borderline significance with AFT scores (β = = -0.38, SE = 0.19, p-value 0.052). Hypernatremia did not show any significant relationships with cognitive test scores, compared to normal sodium levels.

Conclusions

Our cross-sectional study showed that lower sodium levels were associated with cognitive change, especially regarding memory and executive function.
Missed opportunities for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis during pregnancy and the postpartum period: evidence from mainland China in 2019
Authors: Zhao Zhekun , Zhou Qiongjie , Li Xiaotian
Published: May 2021

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) has become one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. Thromboprophylaxis is recommended for the prevention of this condition; however, its use appears to be insufficient. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to identify the missed opportunities for VTE prophylaxis in hospitals that provide maternal healthcare in mainland China.

Methods

In this cross-sectional survey-based study, we collected case data on pregnant and puerperal women with deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism from January 1st to December 31st, 2019. Demographics, obstetric information, VTE risk assessment scores, and prophylaxis-related information were recorded. Thromboprophylaxis included mobilization, mechanical methods, and treatment with anticoagulants.

Results

Data corresponding to a total of 106 cases from 26 hospitals across China were collected, and 100 (94.3%) cases, 75 cases involving deep vein thrombosis and 25 cases involving pulmonary thromboembolism, were included in the final analysis. VTE occurred in 80% of the patients at the postpartum stage, while 20 patients developed the disease during the antenatal stage. Cesarean section, advanced maternal age, and obesity were the most common risk factors related to VTE during the postpartum stage, while a previous VTE-related history was a prominent risk factor among antenatal cases. Up to 75% of the patients had one or more missed opportunities for prophylaxis. The lack of the implementation of mechanical methods (60.8% vs. 24.5%, P < 0.001) and anticoagulant treatment (61.1% vs. 48.7%, P < 0.001) were more common in general hospitals compared to those of specialized hospitals. In women assessed as high-risk, anticoagulant treatment was lacking in 41 (54.7%) cases. More importantly, the lack of the implementation of mechanical methods was more common among women assessed as low-risk (56.0% vs. 38.7%, P < 0.001). Among the antenatal cases, the lack of treatment with anticoagulants (100.0% vs. 48.5%, P < 0.001) and implementation of mechanical methods (70.0% vs. 36.7%, P < 0.001) was highlighted. In addition, the lack of early mobilization was much more prominent among the PTE cases (10.5% vs. 37.5%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

At least one prophylactic opportunity was missed in most of the enrolled Chinese women with VTE during the course of their maternal healthcare. Missed prophylactic opportunities varied with the type of hospitals, risk assessment, onset timing and disease type. Further efforts from patients, healthcare systems, and healthcare providers are needed for improving the implementation of preventative strategies.
Gene expression-based immune infiltration analyses of renal cancer and their associations with survival outcome
Authors: Chen Lei , Yin Liang , Qi Zilong , Li Jinmin , Wang Xinning , Ma Kun , Liu Xiangyang
Published: May 2021

Background

Renal cancer is a common malignant tumor with an increasing incidence rate.

Methods

In this study, based on the gene expression profiles, we analyzed the compositions of tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) in renal cancer and paracancerous samples using CIBERSORT. The proportions of 22 TIICs subsets in 122 paired renal carcinoma and paracancerous samples, and 224 Wilms tumor (WT) samples varied between intragroup and intergroup.

Results

After analyzed the difference of TIICs composition between renal cancer and paired paracancerous samples, we found that M0 macrophages and CD8 T cells were significantly elevated, while naive B cells were significantly decreased in renal cancer samples compared with paracancerous samples. Survival analysis showed that high overall TIICs proportion, the low proportion of resting mast cells and the high proportion of activated memory CD4 T cells were associated with poor prognosis of renal cancer patients. In addition, 3 clusters were identified by hierarchical clustering analysis, and they presented a distinct prognosis. Cluster 1 had superior survival outcomes, while cluster 2 had an inferior survival outcome.

Conclusions

Our study indicated that overall TIICs proportion, certain TIICs subset proportion, including resting mast cells and activated memory CD4 T cells, and distinct cluster patterns were associated with the prognosis of renal cancer, which was significant for the clinical surveillance and treatment of renal cancer.
A population-based analysis of clinical features and lymph node dissection in head and neck malignant neurogenic tumors
Authors: Fang Xiaolian , Wang Shengcai , Zhao Junyang , Zhang Yamei , Zhang Jie , Li Yanzhen , Li Xiaodan , Tai Jun , Ni Xin
Published: May 2021

Background

The influence of lymph node dissection (LND) on survival in patients with head and neck neurogenic tumors remains unclear. We aimed to determine the effect of LND on the outcomes of patients with head and neck neurogenic tumors.

Methods

Data of patients with surgically treated head and neck neurogenic tumors were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (1975–2016) to investigate the relationship between LND and clinical outcomes by survival analysis. Subgroup analysis was performed in IVa and IVb group.

Results

In total, 662 head and neck neurogenic tumor patients (median age: 49.0 [0–91.0] years) met the inclusion criteria, of whom 13.1% were in the IVa group and 86.9% were in the IVb group. The median follow-up time was 76.0 months (range: 6.0–336.0 months), and the 5-year and 10-year overall survival was 82.4% (95% CI, 0.79–0.85) and 69.0% (95% CI, 0.64–0.73). Cox regression analysis revealed older age (P < .001), advanced stage (P = .037), African American race (P = .002), diagnosis before 2004 (P < .001), and chemotherapy administration (P < .001) to be independent negative predictors of overall survival. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that LND was not a predictor of clinical nodal negativity (cN0) in either IVa or IVb patients.

Conclusions

In head and neck neurogenic patients, LND may not impact the outcome of cN0 in either IVa or IVb group. These data can be recommended in guiding surgical plan and future studies.