bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Four ‘Peculiar’ RRd stars observed by K2
Authors: Nemec James M , Moskalik Paweł
Published: July 2021

Four stars pulsating simultaneously with a dominant period PD ∈ (0.28, 0.39) d and an additional period PA ∈ (0.20, 0.27) d have been identified from among the more than 3000 RR Lyrae stars observed by the Kepler space telescope during NASA’s K2 Mission. All four stars are located in the direction of the Galactic Bulge and have period ratios, PA/PD, significantly smaller than those of most double-mode RR Lyrae (RRd) stars: PA/PD ∈ (0.694, 0.710) versus P1/P0 ∈ (0.726, 0.748). Three of the stars are faint (〈V〉  = 18–20 mag) and distant and are among the ‘peculiar’ RRd (pRRd) stars discovered by Prudil et al. (2017); the fourth star, EPIC 216764000 (=  V1125 Sgr), is a newly discovered pRRd star several magnitudes brighter than the other three stars. In this paper, the high-precision long-cadence K2 photometry is analysed in detail and used to study the cycle-to-cycle light variations. The pulsational characteristics of pRRd stars are compared with those of ‘classical’ and ‘anomalous’ RRd (cRRd, aRRd) stars. The conclusion by Prudil et al. that pRRd stars form a separate group of double-mode pulsators and are not simply very short-period cRRd stars is confirmed. V1127 Aql and AH Cam are identified as other probable members of the class of pRRd stars.
Quenched fractions in the IllustrisTNG simulations: comparison with observations and other theoretical models
Authors: Donnari Martina , Pillepich Annalisa , Nelson Dylan , Marinacci Federico , Vogelsberger Mark , Hernquist Lars
Published: July 2021

We make an in-depth comparison of the IllustrisTNG cosmological simulations with observed quenched fractions of central and satellite galaxies, for Mstars = 109–12 M⊙ at 0 ≤ z ≤ 3. We show how measurement choices [aperture, quenched definition, and star formation rate (SFR) indicator time-scale], as well as sample selection issues (projection effects, satellite/central misclassification, and host mass distribution sampling), impact this comparison. The quenched definition produces differences of up to 70 (30) percentage points for centrals (satellites) above ∼1010.5 M⊙. At z ≳ 2, a larger aperture within which SFR is measured suppresses the quenched fractions by up to ∼50 percentage points. Proper consideration of the stellar and host mass distributions is crucial: Naive comparisons to volume-limited samples from simulations lead to misinterpretation of the quenched fractions as a function of redshift by up to 20 percentage points. Including observational uncertainties to theoretical values of Mstars and SFR changes the quenched fraction values and their trend and/or slope with mass. Taking projected rather than three-dimensional distances for satellites decreases the quenched fractions by up to 10 per cent. TNG produces quenched fractions for both centrals and satellites broadly consistent with observations and predicts up to ∼80 (90) per cent of quenched centrals at z = 0 (z = 2), in line with recent observations, and higher than other theoretical models. The quantitative agreement of TNG and Sloan Digital Sky Survey for satellite quenched fractions in groups and clusters depends strongly on the galaxy and host mass range. Our mock comparison highlights the importance of properly accounting for observational effects and biases.
On the interaction between fast tides and convection
Authors: Barker Adrian J , Astoul Aurélie A V
Published: July 2021

The interaction between equilibrium tides and convection in stellar envelopes is often considered important for tidal evolution in close binary and extrasolar planetary systems. Its efficiency for fast tides has however long been controversial, when the tidal frequency exceeds the turnover frequency of convective eddies. Recent numerical simulations indicate that convection can act like an effective viscosity which decays quadratically with tidal frequency for fast tides, resulting in inefficient dissipation in many applications involving pre- and main-sequence stars and giant planets. A new idea was however recently proposed by Terquem (2021), who suggested Reynolds stresses involving correlations between tidal flow components dominate the interaction instead of correlations between convective flow components as usually assumed. They further showed that this can potentially significantly enhance tidal dissipation for fast tides in many applications. Motivated by the importance of this problem for tidal dissipation in stars and planets, we directly compute this new term using analytical arguments and global spherical simulations using Boussinesq and anelastic hydrodynamic models. We demonstrate that the new term proposed by Terquem vanishes identically for equilibrium tides interacting with convection in both Boussinesq and anelastic models; it is therefore unlikely to contribute to tidal dissipation in stars and planets.
Visualization and characterization of RNA–protein interactions in living cells
Authors: Duan Ningjun , Arroyo Maria , Deng Wen , Cardoso M Cristina , Leonhardt Heinrich
Published: July 2021

RNA–protein interactions are the structural and functional basis of significant numbers of RNA molecules. RNA–protein interaction assays though, still mainly depend on biochemical tests in vitro. Here, we establish a convenient and reliable RNA fluorescent three-hybrid (rF3H) method to detect/interrogate the interactions between RNAs and proteins in cells. A GFP tagged highly specific RNA trap is constructed to anchor the RNA of interest to an artificial or natural subcellular structure, and RNA–protein interactions can be detected and visualized by the enrichment of RNA binding proteins (RBPs) at these structures. Different RNA trapping systems are developed and detection of RNA–protein complexes at multiple subcellular structures are assayed. With this new toolset, interactions between proteins and mRNA or noncoding RNAs are characterized, including the interaction between a long noncoding RNA and an epigenetic modulator. Our approach provides a flexible and reliable method for the characterization of RNA–protein interactions in living cells.
Predicting stability of DNA bulge at mononucleotide microsatellite
Authors: Bae Jin H , Zhang David Yu
Published: July 2021

Mononucleotide microsatellites are clinically and forensically crucial DNA sequences due to their high mutability and abundance in the human genome. As a mutagenic intermediate of an indel in a microsatellite and a consequence of probe hybridization after such mutagenesis, a bulge with structural degeneracy sliding within a microsatellite is formed. Stability of such dynamic bulges, however, is still poorly understood despite their critical role in cancer genomics and neurological disease studies. In this paper, we have built a model that predicts the thermodynamics of a sliding bulge at a microsatellite. We first identified 40 common bulge states that can be assembled into any sliding bulges, and then characterized them with toehold exchange energy measurement and the partition function. Our model, which is the first to predict the free energy of sliding bulges with more than three repeats, can infer the stability penalty of a sliding bulge of any sequence and length with a median prediction error of 0.22 kcal/mol. Patterns from the prediction clearly explain landscapes of microsatellites observed in the literature, such as higher mutation rates of longer microsatellites and C/G microsatellites.
piRNAclusterDB 2.0: update and expansion of the piRNA cluster database
Authors: Rosenkranz David , Zischler Hans , Gebert Daniel
Published: July 2021

PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and their partnering PIWI proteins defend the animal germline against transposable elements and play a crucial role in fertility. Numerous studies in the past have uncovered many additional functions of the piRNA pathway, including gene regulation, anti-viral defense, and somatic transposon repression. Further, comparative analyses across phylogenetic groups showed that the PIWI/piRNA system evolves rapidly and exhibits great evolutionary plasticity. However, the presence of so-called piRNA clusters as the major source of piRNAs is common to nearly all metazoan species. These genomic piRNA-producing loci are highly divergent across taxa and critically influence piRNA populations in different evolutionary lineages. We launched the initial version of the piRNA cluster database to facilitate research on regulation and evolution of piRNA-producing loci across tissues und species. In recent years the amount of small RNA sequencing data that was generated and the abundance of species that were studied has grown rapidly. To keep up with this recent progress, we have released a major update for the piRNA cluster database (https://www.smallrnagroup.uni-mainz.de/piRNAclusterDB), expanding it from 12 to a total of 51 species with hundreds of new datasets, and revised its overall structure to enable easy navigation through this large amount of data.
Trajectory of AKI in hospitalized pediatric patients—impact of duration and repeat events
Authors: Moffett Brady S , Arikan Ayse Akcan
Published: July 2021

Background

Peak severity of acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with mortality in hospitalized pediatric patients. Other factors associated with AKI, such as number of AKI events, severity of AKI events and time spent in AKI, may also have associations with mortality. Characterization of these events could help to evaluate patient outcomes.

Methods

Pediatric inpatients (<19 years of age) from 2011 to 2019 who were not on maintenance renal replacement therapy and had least one serum creatinine (SCr) obtained during hospital admission were included. Percent change in SCr from the minimum value in the prior 7 days was used for AKI staging according to Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Maximum value for age appropriate normal was used for patients with only one SCr. Repeat AKI events were classified in patients if KDIGO criteria were met more than once with at least one SCr value between episodes that did not meet KDIGO criteria. Patient demographics were summarized and incidence of AKI was determined along with associations with mortality. AKI characterizations for the admission were developed including: AKI, repeat (more than one) AKI, AKI severity (maximum KDIGO stage) and total number of AKI events. AKI duration as percent admission days in a KDIGO stage and AKI percent velocity were determined. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed for time to 30-day survival by AKI characterization. A mixed-effects logistic regression model with mortality as the dependent variable nested in patients was developed incorporating patient variables and AKI characterizations.

Results

A total of 184 297 inpatient encounters met study criteria [male 51.7%, age 7.8 years (interquartile range 2.5–13.8) and mortality 0.56%]. Hospital length of stay was 1.9 days (IQR 0.37, 4.8 days), 15.4% had an intensive care unit admission and 12.2% underwent mechanical ventilation. AKI occurred in 5.6% (n = 10 246) of admissions [Stage 1, 4.5% (n = 8310); Stage 2, 1.3% (n = 2363); Stage 3, 0.77% (n = 1423)] and repeat AKI events occurred in 1.92% (n = 3558). AKI was associated with mortality (odds ratio 6.0, 95% confidence interval 4.8–7.6; P < 0.001) and increasing severity (KDIGO maximum stage) was associated with increased mortality. Multiple AKI events were also associated with mortality (P < 0.001). Duration of AKI was associated with mortality (P < 0.001) but AKI velocity was not (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

AKI occurs in 5.6% of the pediatric inpatient population and multiple AKI events occur in ∼30% of these patients. Maximum KDIGO stage is most strongly associated with mortality. Multiple AKI events and AKI duration should also be considered when evaluating patient outcomes.
MYD88 L265P mutation in primary central nervous system lymphoma is associated with better survival: A single-center experience
Authors: Curran Olimpia E , Poon Michael T C , Gilroy Louise , Torgersen Antonia , Smith Colin , Al-Qsous Wael
Published: July 2021

Background

The myeloid differentiation primary response gene (MYD88) mutation in primary central nervous system lymphomas (PCNSL) may be associated with unfavorable prognosis; however, current evidence remains limited. We aimed to characterize PCNSLs by integration of clinicopathological, molecular, treatment, and survival data.

Methods

We retrospectively identified and validated 57 consecutive patients with PCNSLs according to the 2017 WHO classification of lymphoid neoplasms over 13 years. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor samples underwent polymerase chain reaction assay to detect MYD88 mutation. We used Cox regression for survival analysis, including age, treatment, and MYD88 as covariates. We searched the literature for studies reporting demographics, treatment, MYD88, and survival of PCNSL patients and incorporated individual patient data into our analyses.

Results

The median age was 66 years and 56% were women. All 57 patients had PCNSL of non-germinal center cell subtype and the majority (81%) received either single or combined therapies. There were 46 deaths observed over the median follow-up of 10 months. MYD88 mutation status was available in 41 patients of which 36 (88%) were mutated. There was an association between MYD88 mutation and better survival in the multivariable model (hazard ratio [HR] 0.277; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.09-0.83; P = .023) but not in a univariable model. After incorporating additional 18 patients from the literature, this association was reproducible (HR 0.245; 95% CI: 0.09-0.64; P = .004).

Conclusions

Adjusting for confounders, MYD88-mutant PCNSL appears to show improved survival. While further validation is warranted, detection of MYD88 mutation will aid the identification of patients who may benefit from novel targeted therapies.
Family-wide evaluation of RAPID ALKALINIZATION FACTOR peptides
Authors: Abarca Alicia , Franck Christina M. , Zipfel Cyril
Published: July 2021

Plant peptide hormones are important players that control various aspects of the lives of plants. RAPID ALKALINIZATION FACTOR (RALF) peptides have recently emerged as important players in multiple physiological processes. Numerous studies have increased our understanding of the evolutionary processes that shaped the RALF family of peptides. Nevertheless, to date, there is no comprehensive, family-wide functional study on RALF peptides. Here, we analyzed the phylogeny of the proposed multigenic RALF peptide family in the model plant Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), ecotype Col-0, and tested a variety of physiological responses triggered by RALFs. Our phylogenetic analysis reveals that two of the previously proposed RALF peptides are not genuine RALF peptides, which leads us to propose a revision to the consensus AtRALF peptide family annotation. We show that the majority of AtRALF peptides, when applied exogenously as synthetic peptides, induce seedling or root growth inhibition and modulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in Arabidopsis. Moreover, our findings suggest that alkalinization and growth inhibition are, generally, coupled characteristics of RALF peptides. Additionally, we show that for the majority of the peptides, these responses are genetically dependent on FERONIA, suggesting a pivotal role for this receptor kinase in the perception of multiple RALF peptides.
Photosynthesis dynamics and regulation sensed in the frequency domain
Authors: Nedbal Ladislav , Lazár Dušan
Published: July 2021

Foundations of photosynthesis research have been established mainly by studying the response of plants to changing light, typically to sudden exposure to a constant light intensity after dark acclimation or light flashes. This approach remains valid and powerful, but can be limited by requiring dark acclimation before time-domain measurements and often assumes that rate constants determining the photosynthetic response do not change between dark and light acclimation. We show that these limits can be overcome by measuring plant responses to sinusoidally modulated light of varying frequency. By its nature, such frequency-domain characterization is performed in light-acclimated plants with no need for prior dark acclimation. Amplitudes, phase shifts, and upper harmonic modulation extracted from the data for a wide range of frequencies can target different kinetic domains and regulatory feedbacks. The occurrence of upper harmonic modulation reflects nonlinear phenomena, including photosynthetic regulation. To support these claims, we measured chlorophyll fluorescence emission of the green alga Chlorella sorokiniana in light that was sinusoidally modulated in the frequency range 1000–0.001 Hz. Based on these experimental data and numerical as well as analytical mathematical models, we propose that frequency-domain measurements can become a versatile tool in plant sensing.
Being a female academic under neoliberal evaluation: A systematic review
Authors: Mula-Flacón Javier , Cruz-González Cristina , Domingo Segovia Jesús , Lucena Rodríguez Carmen
Published: July 2021

The current academic assessment system is drawing a scenario based on neoliberal values. It has contributed to the perpetuation of gender inequalities. This systematic literature review aims to synthesize the most relevant research on the impact of neoliberalism on the professional identity of female academics. For this purpose, a systematized bibliographic search was carried out in four different databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Education Resources Information Center, and Google Scholar), which yielded a total of 26 articles published in international journals. The results illustrate a research field dominated by the USA and the UK and a trajectory of growth in the literature in recent years. The emerging themes reveal some of the challenges faced by women academics in a neoliberal context. These obstacles may be external and even unconsciously imposed by women academics themselves. Motherhood emerges as one of the most influential aspects of their professional development. Furthermore, our findings explore various ways in which women academics reconstruct their identity in the face of systemic challenges. This manuscript culminates with a discussion of the impact that neoliberal values and their general consequences in the performance evaluation processes of academics have on women. Therefore, we provide a number of implications for professional practice and future lines of research.
A predictive clinical-radiomics nomogram for diagnosing of axial spondyloarthritis using MRI and clinical risk factors
Authors: Ye Lusi , Miao Shouliang , Xiao Qinqin , Liu Yuncai , Tang Hongyan , Li Bingyu , Liu Jinjin , Chen Dan
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Construct and validate a nomogram model integrating the radiomics features and the clinical risk factors to differentiating axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) in low back pain patients undergone sacroiliac joint (SIJ)-MRI.

Methods

A total of 638 patients confirmed as axSpA (n = 424) or non-axSpA (n = 214) who were randomly divided into training (n = 447) and validation cohorts (n = 191). Optimal radiomics signatures were constructed from the 3.0 T SIJ-MRI using maximum relevance–minimum redundancy (mRMR) and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm in the training cohort. We also included six clinical risk predictors to build the clinical model. Incorporating the independent clinical factors and Rad-score, a nomogram model was constructed by multivariable logistic regression analysis. The performance of the clinical, Rad-score, and nomogram models were evaluated by ROC analysis, calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

A total of 1316 features were extracted and reduced to 15 features to build the Rad-score. The Rad-score allowed a good discrimination in the training (AUC, 0.82; 95% CI: 0.77, 0.86) and the validation cohort (AUC, 0.82; 95% CI: 0.76, 0.88). The clinical-radiomics nomogram model also showed favourable discrimination in the training (AUC, 0.90; 95% CI: 0.86, 0.93) and the validation cohort (AUC, 0.90; 95% CI: 0.85, 0.94). Calibration curves (P >0.05) and DCA demonstrated the nomogram was useful for axSpA diagnosis in the clinical environment.

Conclusion

The study proposed a radiomics model was able to separate axSpA and non-axSpA. The clinical-radiomics nomogram can increase the efficacy for differentiating axSpA, which might facilitate clinical decision-making process.
Factors Associated with Neonatal Mortality among Newborns Admitted in the Special Care Baby Unit of a Nigerian Hospital
Authors: Ojima Wada Zechariah , Olawade David Bamidele , Awe Olabisi O , Amusa Aminat Opeyemi
Published: July 2021

Background

With Nigeria being one of the countries with the highest neonatal mortality rate globally, identifying the risk factors associated with neonatal mortality is essential as we strive to proffer sustainable solutions.

Aim

This retrospective hospital-based survey aimed to bridge this gap by evaluating the trends and risk factors associated with neonatal mortality in a teaching hospital in Southwestern Nigeria.

Methods

Records of newborns admitted at the special care baby unit from January 2018 to December 2019 (n = 1098) were accessed, and available data were extracted. Descriptive analysis and inferential statistics were performed at 0.05 level of significance.

Results

The mortality rate was determined to be 16.9% (inborn babies- 12.9% and out-born babies- 22.3%), with 83.3% of the newborns dying within the first week. Some of the factors associated with neonatal mortality were proximity of newborns’ mothers home to the hospital [p = 0.041; Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.670; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.455–0.985], maturity of the baby at delivery (p < 0.001; OR = 0.514; CI = 0.358–0.738), place of delivery—inborn or out-born (p < 0.001; OR = 0.515; CI = 0.375–0.709), place of delivery—in a hospital or a non-hospital setting (p = 0.048; OR = 0.633; CI = 0.401–0.999), and baby's weight (p < 0.001; CI = −0.684 to −0.411).

Conclusion

Findings from the study indicate that newborns delivered at home, traditional birth attendant centres or hospitals without essential healthcare facilities have a higher mortality risk. This suggests that measures to improve the accessibility of pregnant women to essential healthcare services are a prerequisite to reducing the neonatal mortality rate in Nigeria.
Functional outcome after dual mobility cups total hip replacement versus bipolar hemiarthroplasty in femoral neck fractures in active elderly patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Makeen Tony Maher , Abdelazim Mohamed Haytham , Mohasseb Ahmed Mohamed , Elshabrawy Waleed El Sayed Abd Elaleem , Ashoub Mostafa Mamdouh , El Ganzoury Ibrahim Mostafa
Published: July 2021

Background:

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BA) has long been the preferred treatment and is performed in most patients with femoral neck fracture (FNF). The dual mobility cup total hip arthroplasty (DMTHA) has emerged as a relevant alternative to BA. Since then there is an on-going debate on the best implant to use. Age, comorbidities, patient independence, and potential surgical complications must be considered when choosing implants. The risk of dislocation is a crucial factor because of its important consequences. The authors evaluated the functional and mechanical outcomes of BA versus DMTHA in FNF in active elderly patients.

Methods:

This study was a randomized comparative interventional single-blinded study that was performed at Ain Shams University Hospitals. A total of 33 patients underwent DMTHA or BA after displaced FNF. Primary outcomes were functional outcome and postoperative dislocation rate. Secondary outcomes were operative time and amount of blood loss.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the demographic data and preoperative parameters between the two groups. There was a significant difference in the postoperative Harris Hip Score (HHS) between the two groups (P=0.01). VAS of groin pain was significantly different between the two groups (P<0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the dislocation rate.

Conclusions:

The authors concluded that DMTHA offered a better functional outcome than BA with no significant complications or mortality, and there was no significant difference between DMTHA and BA in the rate of dislocation.

Level of Evidence:

Level II.
What Is New in Pediatric Bone Health
Authors: Beck Jennifer J. , Mahan Susan T. , Nowicki Philip , Schreiber Verena M. , Minkowitz Barbara
Published: July 2021

Background:

This review paper aims to report on the last 5 years of relevant research on pediatric bone health in regard to nutrition and obesity, ethnic disparities, common orthopaedic conditions, trauma, spine, and sports medicine.

Methods:

A search of the PubMed database was completed using the following terms: bone health, Vitamin D, pediatric, adolescent, sports medicine, fractures, spine, scoliosis, race, ethnicity, obesity, Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis, Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy, neuromuscular, and cancer. Resultant papers were reviewed by study authors and determined to be of quality and relevance for description in this review. Papers from January 1, 2015 to August 31, 2020 were included.

Results:

A total of 85 papers were selected for review. General results include 7 key findings. (1) Obesity inhibits pediatric bone health with leptin playing a major role in the process. (2) Socioeconomic and demographic disparities have shown to have a direct influence on bone health. (3) Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased fracture risk and severity in children. (4) Formal vitamin D monitoring can aid with patient compliance with treatment. (5) Patients with chronic medical conditions are impacted by low vitamin D and need ongoing monitoring of their bone health to decrease their fracture risk. (6) Vitamin D deficiency in pediatrics has been correlated to low back pain, spondylolysis, and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Osteopenic patients with AIS have an increased risk of curve progression requiring surgery. Before spine fusion, preoperative screening for vitamin D deficiency may reduce complications of fractures, insufficient tissue repair, loosening hardware, and postoperative back pain. (7) Increasing youth sports participation has resulted in increased bone health related injuries. However, improved understanding of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport effects on bone health has recently occurred.

Conclusions:

Increasing awareness of bone health issues in children will improve their recognition and treatment. Further research is needed on diagnosis, treatment, outcomes, and most importantly prevention of pediatric bone health diseases.
Primary pleural epithelioid hemangioendothelioma: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lavacchi Daniele , Voltolini Luca , Comin Camilla Eva , Mazzoni Francesca , Baldi Giacomo Giulio , Briganti Vittorio , Luvarà Silvia , Bongiolatti Stefano , Antonuzzo Lorenzo
Published: July 2021

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is an extremely rare vascular sarcoma with an unpredictable clinical behavior. Pleural EHEs have been associated with poor response to treatment and reduced survival. To date, no standard treatment for EHE is available. Here we report the case of a 53-year-old man who underwent radical surgery for a symptomatic primary pleural EHE. Clinical presentation was characterized by chronic pain in the left hemithorax with transitory flare, anemia, weight loss and progressive worsening of clinical conditions. After surgery, he resumed active life and normal daily activities and, at 8 months, 18F-FDG PET and computed tomography scan showed no radiological evidence of recurrent disease. Clinical signs of this rare disease, histological features, imaging findings and functional imaging are discussed. We also report a summary of other cases with resected pleural EHE and we briefly review the role of chemotherapeutic, immunomodulatory and antiangiogenic drugs for advanced disease.
Plaque‐Type Variant of Acquired Rhabdomyomatous Mesenchymal Hamartoma on the Chin: A Case Series
Authors: Lee Yu-Hua , Yao Xiao-Feng , Wu Yu-Hung
Published: July 2021

Rhabdomyomatous mesenchymal hamartoma (RMH) is a rare benign tumor composed of skeletal muscle fibers and other mesenchymal-derived cells. The lesions are generally solitary sessile papules or skin tag lesions that occur during childhood. We retrospectively reviewed patients diagnosed with RMH pathologically between January 2001 and June 2020 at a tertiary medical center. A literature review was conducted. Seven plaque-type RMHs on the chin were found, including 6 in adults and one in a 14-year-old boy. The average age was 45.7 years. The onset of the RMH appearance was between several months and years. Pathologically, all patients showed a scattered haphazard arrangement of skeletal muscle bundles in the dermis and/or subcutis. Subcutis replaced by fibrous tissue and skeletal muscle bundles was present in 2 cases. Some skeletal muscles had a periadnexal distribution. This case series demonstrated a distinct clinical presentation of acquired RMH specifically located on the chin.
Prenatal Diagnosis of a Giant Epignathus in the Second Trimester and Immediate Successful Management at Birth: A Case Report
Authors: Hu Xiaoyu , Chu Yijing , Chen Yunqing , Zhao Min , Wang Xiaofei , Xu Lin
Published: July 2021

Epignathus is an extremely rare congenital oropharyngeal teratoma. Here, we report a case of epignathus without intracranial extension in a fetus. The mass was first found by ultrasonography at 22 gestational weeks. Serial ultrasound examinations and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed that the fetus had neither central nervous system involvement nor abnormal nose or tooth. The baby was delivered at 37 weeks and six days of gestation via cesarean section set up for ex-utero intrapartum treatment. The postnatal pathologic examination confirmed the presence of mature tissues predominantly containing ectopic central nervous tissue, osseous tissue, and bronchial mucosal tissue. Most cases of epignathus are associated with malformation and death. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging prenatal assessments are very important to facilitate counseling and understand prognosis. In conclusion, the ex-utero intrapartum treatment procedure is a good approach to improve the survival of infants with epignathus.
Refining determinants of associations of visit-to-visit blood pressure variability with cardiovascular risk: results from the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Trial
Authors: Nuyujukian Daniel S. , Zhou Jin J. , Koska Juraj , Reaven Peter D.
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

As there is uncertainty about the extent to which baseline blood pressure level or cardiovascular risk modifies the relationship between blood pressure variability (BPv) and cardiovascular disease, we comprehensively examined the role of BPv in cardiovascular disease risk in the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) Trial.

Methods:

Using data from ACCORD, we examined the relationship of BPv with development of the primary CVD outcome, major coronary heart disease (CHD), and total stroke using time-dependent Cox proportional hazards models.

Results:

BPv was associated with the primary CVD outcome and major CHD but not stroke. The positive association with the primary CVD outcome and major CHD was more pronounced in low and high strata of baseline SBP (<120 and >140 mmHg) and DBP (<70 and >80 mmHg). The effect of BPv on CVD and CHD was more pronounced in those with both prior CVD history and low blood pressure. Dips, not elevations, in blood pressure appeared to drive these associations. The relationships were generally not attenuated by adjustment for mean blood pressure, medication adherence, or baseline comorbidities. A sensitivity analysis using CVD events from the long-term posttrial follow-up (ACCORDION) was consistent with the results from ACCORD.

Conclusion:

In ACCORD, the effect of BPv on adverse cardiovascular (but not cerebrovascular) outcomes is modified by baseline blood pressure and prior CVD. Recognizing these more nuanced relationships may help improve risk stratification and blood pressure management decisions as well as provide insight into potential underlying mechanisms.
Pyridostigmine ameliorates preeclamptic features in pregnant rats by inhibiting tumour necrosis factor-α synthetsis and antagonizing tumour necrosis factor-α-related effects
Authors: Issotina Zibrila Abdoulaye , Wang Zheng , Ali Md Ahasan , Osei James Ampofo , Sun Yuyao , Zafar Salman , Liu Kaili , Li Chunfang , Kang Yuming , Liu Jinjun
Published: July 2021

Objective:

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy marked by an excessive inflammatory response. The anti-inflammatory effect of pyridostigmine (PYR) was previously reported; however, its role in hypertensive pregnancies remains unclear. We hypothesized that PYR could attenuate increased blood pressure and other pathological features in preeclampsia models.

Methods:

The expression of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α was evaluated in normal and preeclampsia pregnant women. PYR (20 mg/kg) was administered daily to reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) and TNF-α (150 ng/day) infused rats from gestation day 14 to GD19. In a cell culture experiment, the effect of acetylcholine (ACh) on TNF-α-stimulated primary human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVEC) was assessed.

Results:

Preeclampsia women had higher placental TNF-α expression than normal pregnant women. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) in the RUPP group was higher than in the Sham group. PYR inhibited serum and placental acetylcholinesterase activity in rats, and reduced MAP, placental oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in the RUPP group but not in the Sham group. In addition, PYR significantly attenuated the TNF-α-induced increase in MAP, placental oxidative stress and apoptosis. Moreover, TNF-α decreased cell viability and increased the number of TUNEL-positive nuclei of HUVEC, which could largely be abolished by ACh treatment.

Conclusion:

Collectively, PYR ameliorated hypertension and other preeclampsia-like symptoms in rat models of preeclampsia not only by inhibiting the synthesis of TNF-α but also by acting against TNF-α-induced detrimental effects directly, which is worthy of further investigation and may be used as a potential agent for preeclampsia management.
Effective Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection With Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir in 2 Teenagers With HIV Coinfection: A Brief Report
Authors: Pokorska-Śpiewak Maria , Dobrzeniecka Anna , Ołdakowska Agnieszka , Marczyńska Magdalena
Published: July 2021

We present the efficacy and safety of 12 weeks of therapy with a fixed dose of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir in 2 teenagers with HIV/hepatitis C virus coinfection. Patient 1 presented with compensated cirrhosis, whereas patient 2 had evidence of previous hepatitis B virus infection. Both patients achieved a sustained virologic response 12 weeks after the end of treatment. No serious adverse effects were reported.
Blocking peripheral drive from colorectal afferents by subkilohertz dorsal root ganglion stimulation
Authors: Chen Longtu , Guo Tiantian , Zhang Shaopeng , Smith Phillip P. , Feng Bin
Published: July 2021

Clinical evidence indicates dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation effectively reduces pain without the need to evoke paresthesia. This paresthesia-free anesthesia by DRG stimulation can be promising to treat pain from the viscera, where paresthesia usually cannot be produced. Here, we explored the mechanisms and parameters for DRG stimulation using an ex vivo preparation with mouse distal colon and rectum (colorectum), pelvic nerve, L6 DRG, and dorsal root in continuity. We conducted single-fiber recordings from split dorsal root filaments and assessed the effect of DRG stimulation on afferent neural transmission. We determined the optimal stimulus pulse width by measuring the chronaxies of DRG stimulation to be below 216 µs, indicating spike initiation likely at attached axons rather than somata. Subkilohertz DRG stimulation significantly attenuates colorectal afferent transmission (10, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 Hz), of which 50 and 100 Hz show superior blocking effects. Synchronized spinal nerve and DRG stimulation reveals a progressive increase in conduction delay by DRG stimulation, suggesting activity-dependent slowing in blocked fibers. Afferents blocked by DRG stimulation show a greater increase in conduction delay than the unblocked counterparts. Midrange frequencies (50-500 Hz) are more efficient at blocking transmission than lower or higher frequencies. In addition, DRG stimulation at 50 and 100 Hz significantly attenuates in vivo visceromotor responses to noxious colorectal balloon distension. This reversible conduction block in C-type and Aδ-type afferents by subkilohertz DRG stimulation likely underlies the paresthesia-free anesthesia by DRG stimulation, thereby offering a promising new approach for managing chronic visceral pain.
Masked hypertension and correlation between body composition and nighttime blood pressure parameters in children and adolescents with obesity
Authors: Rujirakan Pornphan , Siwarom Sirinapa , Paksi Witchuri , Wecharak Alisa , Phoonlapdacha Phanphen , Pirojsakul Kwanchai
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Masked hypertension is defined as having a normal blood pressure (BP) in the office but elevated BP outside the office. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of masked hypertension in participants with obesity and to examine the correlation between body composition, dietary intake and ambulatory blood pressure parameters.

Materials and methods

The cross-sectional study of participants with obesity was conducted in the pediatric nutrition clinic of a University Hospital in Thailand. Demographic and anthropometric data, dietary intake, body composition analysis and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring were assessed in all participants. All parameters were compared between the group with masked hypertension and the normotensive group. Correlations between the parameters were analyzed.

Results

Among 49 children with obesity, 23 (47%, 95% confidence interval 34.7, 59.2%) had masked hypertension. Compared with the normotensive group, the group with masked hypertension had a greater mean BMI z-score (4.7 vs. 3.0, P = 0.003), a greater mean of body fat percentage (45 vs. 40, P = 0.012) and a greater total energy intake percentage of dietary reference intake (115 vs. 93, P = 0.034). Multivariate analysis showed that BMI z-score was significantly associated with masked hypertension. Interestingly, mean nighttime SBP positively correlated with BMI z-score and body fat percentage. Moreover, there were negative correlations between fruit intake portion per week and nighttime and 24-h SBP index. However, multivariate linear regression did not show significant correlation between these parameters.

Conclusions

Masked hypertension was frequent in participants with obesity. The greater BMI z-score and percentage of body fat mass correlated with higher nighttime SBP.
Physical activity and quality of life of patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Kim Bun , Chae Jisuk , Kim Eun Hye , Yang Hyuk In , Cheon Jae Hee , Kim Tae Il , Kim Won Ho , Jeon Justin Y. , Park Soo Jung
Published: July 2021

This study examined the association between physical activity (PA) and quality of life (QOL) in Korean patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

We enrolled 158 patients with IBD (81 men and 47 women). PA levels were assessed using the International PA questionnaire. Using self-reported frequency (day) and duration (h) of physical activities, the patients were categorized into 3 groups based on their total metabolic equivalent (MET-h/wk) values: least, moderate, and most active. The QOL of patients with IBD was assessed using the inflammatory bowel disease questionnaire (IBDQ), the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Version 2 (SF36v2), the EuroQOL five dimensions questionnaire (EQ5D), and the EuroQOL visual analog scale (EQ-VAS).

Of 158 patients, 62, 73, and 23 patients with Crohn disease, ulcerative colitis, and intestinal Behçet disease, respectively, were included. The mean age was 45.96 ± 17.58 years, and 97 (61.4%) patients were men. Higher PA levels correlated with higher EQ5D and EQ-VAS scores (P < .001 and P = .004 respectively). In addition, depending on the type of PA, the amount of leisure activity was associated with higher IBDQ (κ = 0.212, P = .018), physical function of SF36v2 (κ = 0.197, P = .026), EQ5D (κ = 0.255, P = .002), and EQ-VAS (κ = 0.276, P = .001) scores. The frequency of sweat-inducing exercise showed an inverse correlation with IBDQ (κ = –0.228, P = .011), physical function of SF36v2 (κ = –0.245, P = .006), EQ5D (κ = –0.225, P = .007), and EQ-VAS (κ = –0.246, P = .004) scores.

Increased PA levels were associated with improved QOL in patients with IBD. More leisure activity and non-sweat-inducing exercise were associated with improved QOL in patients with IBD.
Teaching ultrasound-guided peripheral venous catheter placement through immersive virtual reality
Authors: Andersen Nanna L. , Jensen Rune O. , Posth Stefan , Laursen Christian B. , Jørgensen Rasmus , Graumann Ole
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Immersive virtual reality (IVR)-based training is gaining ground as an educational tool in healthcare. When combined with well-established educational methods, IVR can potentially increase competency and autonomy in ultrasound (US)-guided peripheral venous cannulation.

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of adding IVR training to a course in US-guided peripheral venous cannulation.

Methods:

Medical students (n = 19) from the University of Southern Denmark with no former standardized US education were recruited to voluntarily participate in a pilot study, designed as a randomized controlled trial. The primary outcome was the proportion of successful peripheral venous cannulations on a phantom. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of surface punctures on the phantom and procedure time. Participants received e-learning on the basic US before randomization to either IVR (n = 10) or no further training (n = 9). The additional IVR training comprised 10 virtual scenarios for US-guided peripheral venous catheter (PVC) placement. Students were subsequently evaluated in peripheral venous cannulation by a blinded assessor.

Results:

The proportion of successful peripheral venous cannulations was significantly higher in the IVR group (P ≤ .001). The proportions of successful cannulations were significantly higher in the IVR group compared to the control group for the 1st and 2nd PVC (P = .011, P = .023), but not for the 3rd PVC (P = .087). Similar results were found for the proportion of surface punctures (1st: P ≤ .001, 2nd: P = .001, and 3rd: P = .114). No significant differences in procedure times were found between the groups.

Conclusion:

This pilot study showed that adding an IVR-based training simulation to an existing e-learning curriculum significantly increased the learning efficacy of US-guided PVC placement for medical students.
Identification of potential core genes in esophageal carcinoma using bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Yang Xiaojie , Tian Mengyue , Zhang Weiguang , Chai Tianci , Shen Zhimin , Kang Mingqiang , Lin Jiangbo
Published: July 2021

Background:

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a common human malignancy worldwide. The tumorigenesis mechanism in ESCC is unclear.

Materials and methods:

To explore potential therapeutic targets for ESCC, we analyzed 3 microarray datasets (GSE20347, GSE38129, and GSE67269) derived from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. Then, the GEO2R tool was used to screen out differently expressed genes (DEGs) between ESCC and normal tissue. Gene ontology function and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analysis were performed using the database for annotation, visualization and integrated discovery to identify the pathways and functional annotation of DEGs. Protein–protein interaction of these DEGs was analyzed based on the search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes database and visualized by Cytoscape software. In addition, we used encyclopedia of RNA interactomes (ENCORI), gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA), and the human protein atlas to confirm the expression of hub genes in ESCC. Finally, GEPIA was used to evaluate the prognostic value of hub genes expression in ESCC patients and we estimated the associations between hub genes expression and immune cell populations (B Cell, CD8+ T Cell, CD4+ T Cell, Macrophage, Neutrophil, and Dendritic Cell) in esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) using tumor immune estimation resource (TIMER).

Results:

In this study, 707 DEGs (including 385 upregulated genes and 322 downregulated genes) and 6 hub genes (cyclin B1 [CCNB1], cyclin dependent kinase 1 [CDK1], aurora kinase A [AURKA], ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2C [UBE2C], cyclin A2 [CCNA2], and cell division cycle 20 [CDC20]) were identified. All of the 6 hub genes were highly expressed in ESCC tissues. Among of them, only CCNB1 and CDC20 were associated with stage of ESCC and all of them were not associated with survival time of patients.

Conclusion:

DEGs and hub genes were confirmed in our study, providing a thorough, scientific and comprehensive research goals for the pathogenesis of ESCC.
Clinicopathological and prognostic significance of long non-coding RNA-ROR in cancer patients
Authors: Luo Deqing , Yang Limin , Yu Le , Chen Yijin , Huang Zunxian , Liu Hui
Published: July 2021

Background:

Accumulating studies have focused on the clinicopathological and prognostic roles of large intergenic noncoding RNA regulator of reprogramming (lincRNA-ROR) in cancer patients. However, the results were controversial and unconvincing. Thus, we performed a meta-analysis to assess the associations between lincRNA-ROR expression and survival and clinicopathological characteristics of cancer patients.

Methods:

Hazard ratios for overall survival and disease-free survival with their 95% confidence intervals were used to evaluate the role of lincRNA-ROR expression in the prognosis of cancer patients. Risk ratios with their 95% confidence intervals were applied to assess the relationship between lincRNA-ROR expression and clinicopathological parameters.

Results:

A total of 18 articles with 1441 patients were enrolled. Our results indicated that high lincRNA-ROR expression was significant associated with tumor size, TNM stage, clinical stage, lymph metastasis, metastasis and vessel invasion of cancer patients. There were no correlations between high lincRNA-ROR expression and age, gender, infiltration depth, differentiation, serum CA19–9 and serum CEA of cancer patients. In addition, high lincRNA-ROR expression was associated with shorter Overall survival and disease-free survival on both univariate and multivariate analyses. Meanwhile, there were no obvious publication bias in our meta-analysis.

Conclusions:

LincRNA-ROR expression was associated with the clinicopathological features and outcome of cancer patients, which suggested that lincRNA-ROR might serve as a potential biomarker for cancer prognosis.

Ethical approval:

Since this study is on the basis of published articles, ethical approval and informed consent of patients are not required.