bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The production of hate crime victim status: Discourses of normalisation and the experiences of LGBT community members
Authors: Haynes Amanda , Schweppe Jennifer , Garland Jon
Published: March 2023

This article identifies discourses which serve to ‘normalise’ experiences of anti-LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) violence and prevent harmed LGBT persons from accessing the status of ‘hate crime victim’. The phenomenon of normalisation is established in research addressing homophobic, biphobic and transphobic violence, where it is understood fundamentally as the rendering unremarkable of violent manifestations of hate due to their ubiquity. This article interrogates the dynamics of the normalisation process. Drawing on a Foucauldian approach, we explore normalisation as a disciplinary practice, through which people who have experienced anti-LGBT violence are denied access to the status of hate crime victim. Through discourse analysis of focus group data, we identify obstacles to identification and self-identification as a victim grounded in the experience and anticipation of judgement both within society and the LGBT community. Discourses against which the claims of LGBT people are adjudicated (re)produce cultural myths about hate crime, about anti-LGBT violence and about victimhood. While this article acknowledges that the value of identifying as a victim is not uncontested, it also asserts that the practice of normalisation, in denying this status, impacts on access to justice and to support. Far from passive, LGBT people who do not self-identify as victims find ways to manage the impacts of hate using their own resources. In this manner, the disciplinary practice of ‘normalisation’ responsibilises persons harmed by social ills for their own care and silences potentially disruptive claims of victimhood on the part of marginal people.
Locked-in syndrome revisited
Authors: Schnetzer Laura , McCoy Mark , Bergmann Jürgen , Kunz Alexander , Leis Stefan , Trinka Eugen
Published: March 2023

The locked-in syndrome (LiS) is characterized by quadriplegia with preserved vertical eye and eyelid movements and retained cognitive abilities. Subcategorization, aetiologies and the anatomical foundation of LiS are discussed. The damage of different structures in the pons, mesencephalon and thalamus are attributed to symptoms of classical, complete and incomplete LiS and the locked-in plus syndrome, which is characterized by additional impairments of consciousness, making the clinical distinction to other chronic disorders of consciousness at times difficult. Other differential diagnoses are cognitive motor dissociation (CMD) and akinetic mutism. Treatment options are reviewed and an early, interdisciplinary and aggressive approach, including the provision of psychological support and coping strategies is favoured. The establishment of communication is a main goal of rehabilitation. Finally, the quality of life of LiS patients and ethical implications are considered. While patients with LiS report a high quality of life and well-being, medical professionals and caregivers have largely pessimistic perceptions. The negative view on life with LiS must be overthought and the autonomy and dignity of LiS patients prioritized. Knowledge has to be disseminated, diagnostics accelerated and technical support system development promoted. More well-designed research but also more awareness of the needs of LiS patients and their perception as individual persons is needed to enable a life with LiS that is worth living.
Controversies and management of deficient mismatch repair gastrointestinal cancers in the neoadjuvant setting
Authors: Boutin Mélina , Gill Sharlene
Published: March 2023

High microsatellite instability (MSI-H)/deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) phenotype is a distinct molecular signature across gastrointestinal cancers characterized by high tumor mutational burden and high neoantigen load. Tumors harboring dMMR are highly immunogenic and heavily infiltrated by immune cells; consequently, they are uniquely vulnerable to therapeutic strategies enhancing immune antitumor response such as checkpoint inhibitors. The MSI-H/dMMR phenotype arose as a powerful predictor of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors with evidence supporting significantly improved outcomes in the metastatic setting. On the other hand, the genomic instability characteristic of MSI-H/dMMR tumors appears to be associated with decreased sensitivity to chemotherapy, and the benefits of standard adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy approaches in this subtype are being increasingly questioned. Here, we review the prognostic and predictive impact of MMR status in localized gastric and colorectal cancers, and highlight the emerging clinical data incorporating checkpoint inhibitors in the neoadjuvant setting.
How to reduce Europe’s energy dependence on authoritarian regimes?
Authors: Milov Vladimir
Published: March 2023

In 2022 the EU made remarkable progress in drastically reducing its energy dependence on Russia. However, serious challenges remain. Europe still buys a significant amount of liquified natural gas (LNG) from Russia. Furthermore, most of the alternatives to Russian LNG come from authoritarian countries. The EU’s planned green energy transition is challenged by its dependence on supplies of critical raw materials from China, Russia and other autocracies. This article suggests practical ways to minimise the EU’s energy dependence on authoritarian countries. These range from boosting the production of indigenous offshore natural gas to supporting projects in democratically inclined countries outside Europe, with the aim of increasing the production of LNG and the critical minerals required for the green energy transition.
Personal qualities are malleable and fixed: Ambivalent mindset, capability ranking reinforcement, and parent–child relationship among Hong Kong Chinese parents
Authors: Chiu Chi-Yue , Tong Yuk-Yue , Lee Sau-Lai , Chan Hiu-Sze
Published: March 2023

Past research showed that people may hold contradictory ideas about something or someone. Mindset ambivalence refers to the psychological state in which a person holds contradictory beliefs about the malleability of a valued attribute and spontaneously expresses agreement with both the fixed and growth mindsets. Our past findings showed that a sizable proportion of Hong Kong Chinese adults possess the ambivalent mindset. In the present study, 101 Hong Kong Chinese parents completed a survey during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings provided further support for the prevalence of the ambivalent mindset. In addition, we found that parents with the ambivalent mindset tended to support several parental practices that would reinforce the relative ability rankings of their children. These practices included person praise, mobilization of effort to compensate for low ability, and lowering of expectation to avoid future failures. Finally, the use of these parental practices was accompanied by deterioration of parent–child relationship when children displayed undesirable self-regulatory behaviors. We discuss these findings’ implications for growth mindset interventions in Chinese societies.
Taraxasterol Inhibits Hepatic Gluconeogenesis and Increases Glycogen Synthesis via the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhao Mao , Lu Mingxing , Zeng Yongjiang , He Shasha , Feng Yuhan , Yang Songqin , Jang Wenwen
Published: March 2023

Objective: Taraxasterol (TS) is the main active compound of Taraxacum, which plays a significant role in the treatment of diabetes in many classic prescriptions. However, the mechanisms of TS in the treatment of diabetes remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of TS in hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycogen synthesis in HepG2 cells with insulin resistance (IR). Methods: Molecular docking was conducted by using Discovery Studio (DS) to predict the target of TS in the treatment of diabetes. Then we treated HepG2 cells with glucosamine for 18 h. After the cells were treated with TS, the glucose consumption was examined. Oil red O staining was used to detect the lipid accumulation of HepG2 cells, and cellular glucose uptake levels were assessed using fluorescent 2-(N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl) amino)-2-deoxy-D-glucose. The expression of the related proteins of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in the HepG2 cells was evaluated by western blot assay. Results: The molecular docking analysis revealed a good binding pose between the insulin receptor and TS. Furthermore, TS administration significantly enhanced glucose uptake and consumption, and reduced lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells with IR. The results of pharmacological mechanism study showed that TS up-regulated glycogenesis by PI3K/Akt/GSK3-motivated GS activation, and down-regulated gluconeogenesis by PI3K/Akt/FoxO1 expression of PEPCK and G6Pase in HepG2 cells with IR. Conclusions: Molecular docking and in vitro experimental results indicate that TS suppresses hepatic gluconeogenesis and augments glycogen synthesis by the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and it may have similar effects as insulin in regulating blood glucose.
Chemical Composition, in Vitro Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities of Different Parts Essential Oils of Neolitsea sericea var. aurata From Taiwan
Authors: Shyu Jiann-Gwo , Hsu Chun-Kai , Hsu Kuang-Ping , Yang Mei-Ling , Wei Liang Yu , Ho Hui-Tung , Ho Chen-Lung
Published: March 2023

This study examined the chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of essential oils isolated from the leaves, twigs, and fruits of Neolitsea sericea var. aurata from Taiwan. The major compounds responsible for antimicrobial activity were isolated and identified. The leaf, twig, and fruit essential oils were obtained through hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus and were characterized through gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detection (GC/FID) and GC/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The major compounds were ( E)-β-ocimene (49.3%) and sericenine (31.6%) in the leaf oil; ( E)-β-ocimene (73.7%), α-cadinol (6.8%), and α-muurolol (4.0%) in the twig oil; and ( E)-β-ocimene (84.7%) in the fruit oil. The twig oil exhibited the strongest antibacterial and antifungal activities. We isolated α-cadinol and α-muurolol, the main components of NTO4 fraction, and used them in antimicrobial tests; the two compounds exhibited excellent antimicrobial activities. The twig essential oil contains α-cadinol and α-muurolol and exhibited excellent antimicrobial activities against food-borne pathogens; thus, they are worthy of further research and development.
Virtual Reality Application for Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening: Current Clinical Protocol Versus a Novel Prototype
Authors: Pavilionis Philip , Adhanom Isayas Berhe , Moran Ryan , Taylor Madison R. , Murray Nicholas G.
Published: March 2023

Background:

Virtual reality (VR) has been explored to improve baseline and postinjury assessments in sport-related concussion (SRC). Some experience symptoms related to VR, unrelated to concussion. This may deter use of vestibular/ocular motor screening (VOMS) using VR. Baseline VR VOMS symptomatology differentiates baseline from overall symptomatology.

Hypothesis:

There will be no difference between current clinical manual VOMS (MAN), a clinical prototype (PRO), and VR for symptom provocation change score (SPCS) and near point of convergence (NPC) average score in a healthy population and sex differences among the 3 modes of administration.

Study Design:

Cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

A total of 688 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I student-athletes completed VOMS using 3 methods (MAN, N = 111; female athletes, N = 47; male athletes, N = 64; average age, 21 years; PRO, N = 365; female athletes, N = 154; male athletes, N = 211; average age, 21 years; VR, N = 212; female athletes, N = 78; male athletes, N = 134; average age = 20 years) over a 3-year period (2019-2021) during annual baseline testing. Exclusion criteria were as follows: self-reported motion sickness in the past 6 months, existing or previous neurological insult, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, or noncorrected vision impairment. Administration of MAN followed the current clinical protocols, PRO used a novel prototype, and VR used an HTC Vive Pro Eye head mounted display. Symptom provocation was compared using Mann-Whitney U tests across each VOMS subtest with total SPCS and NPC average by each method.

Results:

MAN had significantly ( P < 0.01) more baseline SPCS (MAN = 0.466 ± 1.165, PRO = 0.163 ± 0.644, VR = 0.161 ± 0.933) and significantly ( P < 0.01) and more SPCS (MAN = 0.396 ± 1.081, PRO = 0.128 ± 0.427, VR = 0.48 ± 0.845) when compared with PRO and VR. NPC average measurements for VR (average, 2.99 ± 0.684 cm) were significantly greater than MAN (average, 2.91 ± 3.35 cm; P < 0.01; Cohen’s d = 0.03) and PRO (average, 2.21 ± 1.81 cm; P < 0.01; Cohen’s d = 0.57). For sex differences, female athletes reported greater SPCS with PRO (female athletes, 0.29 ± 0.87; male athletes, 0.06 ± 0.29; P < 0.01) but not in VR or MAN.

Conclusion:

Using a VR system to administer the VOMS may not elicit additional symptoms, resulting in fewer false positives and is somewhat stable between sexes.

Clinical Relevance:

VOMS may allow for standardization among administrators and reduce possible false positives.
Successful rescue treatment using chlorambucil for presumed recurrence of sinonasal lymphoma in a cat
Authors: Goto Sho , Muto Fumikazu , Iwasaki Ryota , Mori Takashi
Published: March 2023

Case summary

A 12-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat presented with a 2-week history of serous unilateral nasal discharge, swelling of the nasal bridge and sneezing. Whole-body CT revealed a mass filling the entire right nasal cavity with lysis of the cribriform plate. The cat was diagnosed with sinonasal large-cell lymphoma based on cytopathological analysis, with PCR-based lymphocyte clonality testing showing a monoclonal population with rearrangement of the immunoglobulin heavy chain gene. The cat received radiotherapy with a dose of 30 Gy in seven fractions given three times weekly, and then cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone (CHOP)-based chemotherapy was initiated soon after completion of the radiotherapy schedule. Despite this treatment, CT performed 4 months after radiotherapy revealed enlargement of the lesion in the right nasal cavity consistent with presumed progression of the cat’s lymphoma. The cat then received rescue chemotherapy with chlorambucil, which markedly reduced the size of the disease burden in the nasal and frontal sinus without severe adverse effects. At the time of writing, the cat was receiving chlorambucil for 7 months without any clinical signs suggestive of tumour relapse.

Relevance and novel information

To our knowledge, this is the first case of feline sinonasal lymphoma with chlorambucil used as rescue chemotherapy. This case indicates that chemotherapy with chlorambucil may be a useful treatment option for cats with relapsing sinonasal lymphoma following radiotherapy and/or CHOP-based chemotherapy.
Work Challenges and Health of Immigrant Hotel Housekeepers: Part 2
Authors: Hsieh Yu-Chin (Jerrie) , Shapoval Valeriya , Sönmez Sevil , Apostolopoulos Yorghos
Published: March 2023

Background:

Hotel housekeepers’ major responsibility is to perform cleaning tasks. In the course of performing their duties, hotel housekeepers are disproportionately exposed to multiple workplace hazards (i.e., physical, chemical, biological, and psychosocial hazards) that put them at risk of adverse health consequences. This study aims to discover the occupational and health challenges encountered by immigrant hotel housekeepers in Orlando, Florida, and help hotel management to develop strategies to improve their occupational health.

Methods:

This study adopted an interviewer-administered survey method for data collection. Data were collected from members of the United Here Union, Local 7373 in Orlando, Florida. Trained Spanish–English bilingual associates of the Union administered the surveys through interviews with participants. Descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression were employed to analyze data ( n = 140) using SPSS 22.

Findings:

This study shows that Florida hotel housekeepers participating in this study worked under great time pressures, endured excessive workloads, did not have enough time to rest and recover, and often skipped or shortened lunch breaks. Participants believed that their employers valued work productivity more than their safety and health. More than half of the respondents experienced racial discrimination at their workplaces.

Conclusion/Application to Practice:

The article brings an important contribution to the awareness of housekeepers’ feelings toward their work and the need for effective safety and health policies and programs.
Work-Related Factors Associated With the Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Among a Sample of Female Nurses in China
Authors: Rumeng Chen , Ya Zhu , Xirong Chen , Yue Su , Lixia Chen , Shenshen Wang , Chao Jin , Chunxia Zhang
Published: March 2023

Background:

Female nurses are a high-risk group for pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD). Predictors of female nurses’ PFD among work-related factors are not well known. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of PFD and its association with workplace conditions among female nurses in China.

Methods:

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted in May 2021. A sample of 380 registered nurses working in six tertiary hospitals in Nanjing, China participated. Data on individual characteristics, work-related factors, the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire-7 were used.

Findings:

The overall prevalence of PFD among nurses was 83.9%, with 43.9% of participants experiencing pelvic organ prolapse, 66.6% experiencing anorectal dysfunction and 60.5% experiencing lower urinary tract symptoms. In terms of work-related factors, PFD was associated with heavy lifting, pushing, and carrying at work, delayed toileting at work and fluid intake. Female nurses with PFD reported lower quality of life (QoL) relative to nurses without PFD.

Conclusions/Application to Practice:

Our findings provide initial insights into workplace conditions that promote PFD among female nurses. Occupational health nurses should consider providing educational information for female workers who are potentially at risk for PFD and consider integrating screening of PFD into practice.
Paper 10: Return-to-Play Following Latarjet Procedure in Young Contact Athletes
Authors: Sridharan Mathangi , Patel Akshar , Swinehart Steven , Rauck Ryan , Cvetanovich Gregory , Bishop Julie
Published: March 2023

Objectives:

Young athletes that play a contact sport are susceptible to anterior glenohumeral instability due to high-velocity impacts and repetitive dislocations. Few studies have examined return-to play and patient outcomes following Latarjet procedure in this patient population. The objective of this study was to investigate postoperative return to contact sports in athletes undergoing the Latarjet procedure for shoulder instability.

Methods:

67 consecutive contact athletes (71 shoulders), age ≤35, that underwent Latarjet procedure for recurrent shoulder instability between 1/1/2018 and 3/31/2021 were retrospectively identified. Demographic information, medical history, surgical history, number of dislocations prior to surgery, and post-operative complications up to 6 months after surgery were reviewed. 42 patients were interviewed with minimum follow-up of 12 months. Outcomes evaluated include return to play, competition level, patient satisfaction, and patient-reported outcomes including American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Score, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Results:

Mean age at time of surgery for the total cohort was 19.7 years. 19/67 (28.3%) of patients had prior shoulder surgery, most commonly arthroscopic stabilization. On average, patients had 24.2 frank dislocations (SD 39.1) prior to undergoing Latarjet procedure. 8/67 (11.9%) of patients experienced unresolved pain or stiffness six months after surgery and 2/67 (2.9%) required re-operation after Latarjet. Only one patient experienced hardware failure. 42 patients (63%) were interviewed with mean follow-up of 26.7 months, of which 20 played football. 14/42 (33%) athletes competed at the collegiate level, and 23/42 (55%) at the high school level at the time of surgery. 33/42 patients (78.6%) returned to sport, of which 29/33 (88%) returned to playing at the same competition level; 12/20 (60%) of football players returned to sport. 3/42 (7%) reported recurrent dislocation. Mean ASES score was 91.7, DASH score 6.1, and visual analog scale 4. 38/42 (90%) patients reported improvement in quality of life after undergoing Latarjet procedure for shoulder instability.

Conclusions:

The Latarjet procedure allows young contact athletes with shoulder instability to return to competitive play at strong rates. Although there is high patient satisfaction with the Latarjet procedure, recurrent instability and unresolved pain and stiffness are significant post-operative complications.
What do times of crisis reveal about the “total” nature of prisons? Analysing the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis within the Scottish prison system
Authors: Maycock Matthew
Published: March 2023

Times of crisis within prison settings either at a system-wide level during times of riots or during pandemics or at more personal levels during time in segregation can be particularly challenging times when the prison can feel more “total” than other times. Goffman's influential work outlines a particular interpretation of the parameters of the total institution, of which prisons were one manifestation. In the years following its publication, a wide range of research has sought to subvert the notion that prisons are total institutions, suggesting a greater permeability of contemporary prison walls. This article calls for a re-consideration of this dismissal, and a reconnection and critical engagement with Goffman's original parameters within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdown. The response to COVID-19 in prison settings, resulted in may prison jurisdictions rolling back on policies that, to an extent, had subverted prisons looking and feeling “total”, through the increased “porosity” of prison wall. Through the analysis of 19 letters received from 8 people in custody in one Scottish prison, there emerges a reframed and reconsidered permeability of prison walls. For the participants in this study, the experiences of the COVID-19 lockdown complicate much of the recent critique of the relevance of the total institution as a theoretical frame to analyse contemporary prisons. Ultimately this paper argues, that through analysing the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is possible to observe a more essential and “total” characteristic of contemporary imprisonment. This has been obscured through decades of penal reform, but the total parameters of prison spaces emerges more clearly during times of crisis.
Using Students’ Interests in General Music (Part 2): Exploratory Study of Upper Elementary Students’ Music Activity Interests
Authors: Culp Mara E. , Davis Virginia Wayman
Published: March 2023

The elementary music program is often most likely to include all students in the United States. As such, teachers have an opportunity to encourage lifelong musicianship and musical engagement. Researchers have reported, however, that children’s interest in school music activities declines over the elementary years, and general music teachers struggle to invigorate older students. This raises questions about the nature of school music and why some students lose interest or cease participating. Recently, teachers have sought to address student preferences through diverse offerings, such as popular music instruction and ensemble-focused music classes. Still, teachers cannot be sure they are addressing students’ interests without seeking students’ input. In this second article in our research-to-practice series, we demonstrate this process, sharing how we surveyed students in Grades 3 to 5 regarding their music class activity preferences. Understanding the activities children enjoy and tailoring experiences accordingly may help increase school music engagement and support children’s lifelong musicianship.
Evaluation of Computer-Based Insulin Infusion Algorithm Compared With a Paper-Based Protocol in the Treatment of Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Martinez Heather M. , Elwood Kirsten , Werth Chris , Sarangarm Preeyaporn
Published: March 2023

Background: Development of computer-based software, termed electronic glucose management system (eGMS), offers an alternative strategy to manage diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) compared with institution-specific paper protocols by integrating glucose and insulin titration into the electronic medical record. Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of eGMS versus a paper-based DKA protocol in an urban academic medical center. Methods: Single-center, retrospective analysis of patients admitted for DKA. The primary objective of this study was the time to transition from intravenous to subcutaneous insulin after resolution of DKA pre- and post-eGMS implementation. Secondary outcomes included incidence of hypoglycemia while on an insulin infusion, intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, and total hospital length of stay. Results: Time to DKA resolution was similar in both groups with a median time of 8.6 versus 8.8 hours in the paper-based (n = 133) and eGMS groups (n = 84), respectively ( P = 0.43). Hypoglycemia occurred more frequently in the paper-based group compared with eGMS during insulin infusion (14 vs 3 patients, P = 0.06). The median ICU (36.5 vs 41.4 hours; P = 0.05) and hospital length of stay (67.9 vs 77.8 hours; P = 0.05) were shorter in the paper-based group compared with the eGMS group. Conclusion and Relevance: Similar rates of DKA resolution were seen for patients managed with a paper-based protocol compared with eGMS. Patients in the paper-based protocol had a shorter ICU and hospital length of stay; however, eGMS had improved clinically relevant safety outcomes.
The effectiveness of penile curvature treatment by cavernous body rotation and plication of the tunica albuginea
Authors: Vorobev Vladimir , Beloborodov Vladimir , Sherbatykh Andrey , Kalyagin Alexey , Baklanova Olga , Popov Sergei , Sidorov Stepan
Published: March 2023

Background

There are several approaches to the surgical treatment of the penile curvature conditionally divided into three large groups: tunica albuginea plication (TAP), corpus cavernosum rotation (CR), and transplantation of various materials. The study aims to compare the effectiveness of TAP and CR techniques in the treatment of penile curvature. There was a prospective randomized study of the effectiveness of surgical treatment of patients with an established diagnosis of the penile curvature from 2017 to 2020 in Irkutsk, Russian Federation. The final analysis of the results included 22 cases.

Results

The analysis of the comparative intergroup effectiveness of the treatment performed based on the criteria established in the study showed good treatment results in 8 (88.8%) patients in the CR group and 9 (69.2%) patients in the TAP group (p = 0.577). The other patients obtained satisfactory results. There were no negative outcomes. Simple logistic regression analysis showed that the preoperative flexion angle > 60 degrees (OR 2.7; 95% CI 0.12; 5.28; p = 0.040) was significant in predicting the complaints of penile shortening during TAP. Both methods are safe, effective, and bring minimal risk of complications.

Conclusion

Thus, the effectiveness of both treatment methods is comparable. However, TAP surgery is not recommended for patients with an initial curvature of more than 60 degrees.
CellTrackVis: interactive browser-based visualization for analyzing cell trajectories and lineages
Authors: Shim Changbeom , Kim Wooil , Nguyen Tran Thien Dat , Kim Du Yong , Choi Yu Suk , Chung Yon Dohn
Published: March 2023

Background

Automatic cell tracking methods enable practitioners to analyze cell behaviors efficiently. Notwithstanding the continuous development of relevant software, user-friendly visualization tools have room for further improvements. Typical visualization mostly comes with main cell tracking tools as a simple plug-in, or relies on specific software/platforms. Although some tools are standalone, limited visual interactivity is provided, or otherwise cell tracking outputs are partially visualized.

Results

This paper proposes a self-reliant visualization system, CellTrackVis, to support quick and easy analysis of cell behaviors. Interconnected views help users discover meaningful patterns of cell motions and divisions in common web browsers. Specifically, cell trajectory, lineage, and quantified information are respectively visualized in a coordinated interface. In particular, immediate interactions among modules enable the study of cell tracking outputs to be more effective, and also each component is highly customizable for various biological tasks.

Conclusions

CellTrackVis is a standalone browser-based visualization tool. Source codes and data sets are freely available at http://github.com/scbeom/celltrackvis with the tutorial at http://scbeom.github.io/ctv_tutorial.
Analysis of the AMT gene family in chili pepper and the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization on the expression patterns of CaAMT2 genes
Authors: Fang Lei , Wang Miaomiao , Chen Xiao , Zhao Jianrong , Wang Jianfei , Liu Jianjian
Published: March 2023

Background

Ammonium (NH4+) is a key nitrogen source supporting plant growth and development. Proteins in the ammonium transporter (AMT) family mediate the movement of NH4+ across the cell membrane. Although several studies have examined AMT genes in various plant species, few studies of the AMT gene family have been conducted in chili pepper.

Results

Here, a total of eight AMT genes were identified in chili pepper, and their exon/intron structures, phylogenetic relationships, and expression patterns in response to arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) colonization were explored. Synteny analyses among chili pepper, tomato, eggplant, soybean, and Medicago revealed that the CaAMT2;1, CaAMT2.4, and CaAMT3;1 have undergone an expansion prior to the divergence of Solanaceae and Leguminosae. The expression of six AMT2 genes was either up-regulated or down-regulated in response to AM colonization. The expression of CaAMT2;1/2;2/2;3 and SlAMT2;1/2;2/2;3 was significantly up-regulated in AM fungi-inoculated roots. A 1,112-bp CaAMT2;1 promoter fragment and a 1,400-bp CaAMT2;2 promoter fragment drove the expression of the β-glucuronidase gene in the cortex of AM roots. Evaluation of AM colonization under different NH4+ concentrations revealed that a sufficient, but not excessive, supply of NH4+ promotes the growth of chili pepper and the colonization of AM. Furthermore, we demonstrated that CaAMT2;2 overexpression could mediate NH4+ uptake in tomato plants.

Conclusion

In sum, our results provide new insights into the evolutionary relationships and functional divergence of chili pepper AMT genes. We also identified putative AMT genes expressed in AM symbiotic roots.
Gene enrichment and co-expression analysis shed light on transcriptional responses to Ralstonia solanacearum in tomato
Authors: Shi Jianlei , Shui Deju , Su Shiwen , Xiong Zili , Zai Wenshan
Published: March 2023

Background

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is both an important agricultural product and an excellent model system for studying plant-pathogen interactions. It is susceptible to bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum (Rs), and infection can result in severe yield and quality losses. To investigate which genes are involved in the resistance response to this pathogen, we sequenced the transcriptomes of both resistant and susceptible tomato inbred lines before and after Rs inoculation.

Results

In total, 75.02 Gb of high-quality reads were generated from 12 RNA-seq libraries. A total of 1,312 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, including 693 up-regulated and 621 down-regulated genes. Additionally, 836 unique DEGs were obtained when comparing two tomato lines, including 27 co-expression hub genes. A total of 1,290 DEGs were functionally annotated using eight databases, most of which were found to be involved in biological pathways such as DNA and chromatin activity, plant-pathogen interaction, plant hormone signal transduction, secondary metabolite biosynthesis, and defense response. Among the core-enriched genes in 12 key pathways related to resistance, 36 genotype-specific DEGs were identified. RT-qPCR integrated analysis revealed that multiple DEGs may play a significant role in tomato response to Rs. In particular, Solyc01g073985.1 (NLR disease resistance protein) and Solyc04g058170.1 (calcium-binding protein) in plant-pathogen interaction are likely to be involved in the resistance.

Conclusion

We analyzed the transcriptomes of both resistant and susceptible tomato lines during control and inoculated conditions and identified several key genotype-specific hub genes involved in a variety of different biological processes. These findings lay a foundation for better understanding the molecular basis by which resistant tomato lines respond to Rs.
A multi-disciplinary program for opioid sparse arthroplasty results in reduced long-term opioid consumption: a four year prospective study
Authors: Lin D-Yin , Samson Anthony J. , D’Mello Freeda , Brown Brigid , Cehic Matthew G. , Wilson Christopher , Kroon Hidde M. , Jaarsma Ruurd L.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The current opioid epidemic poses patient safety and economic burdens to healthcare systems worldwide. Postoperative prescriptions of opioids contribute, with reported opioid prescription rates following arthroplasty as high as 89%. In this multi-centre prospective study, an opioid sparing protocol was implemented for patients undergoing knee or hip arthroplasty. The primary outcome is to report our patient outcomes in the context of this protocol, and to examine the rate of opioid prescription on discharge from our hospitals following joint arthroplasty surgery. This is possibly associated with the efficacy of the newly implemented Arthroplasty Patient Care Protocol.

Methods

Over three years, patients underwent perioperative education with the expectation to be opioid-free after surgery. Intraoperative regional analgesia, early postoperative mobilisation and multimodal analgesia were mandatory. Long-term opioid medication use was monitored and PROMs (Oxford Knee/Hip Score (OKS/OHS), EQ-5D-5 L) were evaluated pre-operatively, and at 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. Primary and secondary outcomes were opiate use and PROMs at different time points.

Results

A total of 1,444 patients participated. Two (0.2%) knee patients used opioids to one year. Zero hip patients used opioids postoperatively at any time point after six weeks (p < 0.0001). The OKS and EQ-5D-5 L both improved for knee patients from 16 (12–22) pre-operatively to 35 (27–43) at 1 year postoperatively, and 70 (60–80) preoperatively to 80 (70–90) at 1 year postoperatively (p < 0.0001). The OHS and EQ-5D-5 L both improved for hip patients from 12 (8–19) preoperatively to 44 (36–47) at 1 year postoperatively, and 65 (50–75) preoperatively to 85 (75–90) at 1 year postoperatively (p < 0.0001). Satisfaction improved between all pre- and postoperative time points for both knee and hip patients (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Knee and hip arthroplasty patients receiving a peri-operative education program can effectively and satisfactorily be managed without long-term opioids when coupled with multimodal perioperative management, making this a valuable approach to reduce chronic opioid use.
A rare focal atrial tachycardia arising from the proximal middle cardiac vein: a case report
Authors: Guo Min , Zhang Nan , Jia Gao , Ma Guijin , Li Xin , Wang Rui
Published: March 2023

Background

Focal atrial tachycardia (FAT) always originates from atrium specific sites and can be successfully cured by radiofrequency (RF) ablation. However, the middle cardiac vein (MCV) is a rare site of focal atrial tachycardia. Herein, we present a case of a 20-year-old young woman with FAT. Electrophysiological examination showed FAT arising from the proximal middle cardiac vein (pMCV), and successful RF ablation was applied with a low power and short-ablation.

Case presentation

A 20-year-old woman with no structural heart disease suffered recurrent supraventricular tachycardia for 1 year. Physical examination, laboratory studies and the echocardiography results of this patient were normal. A 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) showed a narrow QRS and long RP tachycardia which was always triggered by a sinus rhythm. The patient underwent an electrophysiological study and found the earliest activation was in the proximal MCV (pMCV). After a low power and short-ablation, AT was terminated and noninducible by programmed pacing with or without isoproterenol infusion.

Conclusion

This case presented a rare case of FAT arising from the pMCV. We demonstrate that low power and short-ablation are effective in AT arising from specific areas such as the coronary sinus ostium and pMCV.
Relationship between income and concerns about physical changes and help-seeking by older adult cancer survivors: a secondary analysis
Authors: Nicoll Irene , Lockwood Gina , Strohschein Fay J. , Fitch Lauren , Longo Christopher J. , Newton Lorelei , Fitch Margaret I.
Published: March 2023

Objective

Globally, the number of older adults surviving cancer is anticipated to grow rapidly over the next decades. Cancer and its treatment can leave survivors with a myriad of challenges including physical changes which impact independence and quality of life. This project explored the relationship of income level with concerns and help-seeking for physical changes following treatment in older Canadian survivors of cancer.

Methods

A Canada-wide survey of community-dwelling survivors of cancer explored their experiences with survivorship care one to three years following completion of treatment. A secondary trend analysis examined the relationship of income with older adults’ level of concern and help-seeking experiences regarding physical consequences they attributed to their cancer treatment.

Results

In total, 7,975 people aged 65 years and older who survived cancer responded to the survey, of whom 5,891 (73.9%) indicated annual household income. Prostate (31.3%), colorectal (22.7%) and breast (21.8%) cancer accounted for the majority of respondents. Of those who reported household income data, over 90% wrote about the impact of physical changes following treatment, their concerns about the changes, and whether they sought help for their concerns. The most frequently identified physical challenge was fatigue (63.7%). Older survivors with low annual household incomes of less than $CA25,000 reported the highest levels of concern about multiple physical symptoms. 25% or more of the survey respondents across all income levels reported difficulty finding assistance for their concerns about the physical challenges, especially in their local communities.

Conclusion

Older survivors of cancer can experience a range of physical changes, amenable to intervention by physical therapy, yet experience challenges obtaining relevant help. Those with low income are more severely affected, even within a universal healthcare system. Financial assessment and tailored follow-up are recommended.
A case report of fatal COVID-19 complicated by rapidly progressive sepsis caused by Klebsiella variicola
Authors: Tanii Rimi , Harada Sohei , Saito Hiroki , Okamoto Koh , Doi Yohei , Suzuki Masahiro
Published: March 2023

Background

There is a growing interest in Klebsiella variicola as a causative pathogen in humans, though its clinical features and the impact of co-infection or secondary infection with COVID-19 remain unknown.

Case presentation

A 71-year-old man presented with fever, altered mental status and generalized weakness and was admitted to ICU due to severe COVID-19 pneumonia. He was newly diagnosed with type II diabetes mellitus upon admission. On hospital day 3, his respiratory status deteriorated, requiring invasive mechanical ventilation. On hospital day 10, superimposed bacterial pneumonia was suspected and subsequently, broad-spectrum antibiotics were administered for the associated bloodstream infection. On hospital day 13, despite administration of active antibiotics and appropriate source control, he decompensated and died.

The causative organism isolated from blood cultures was initially reported as K. pneumoniae, but it was identified as K. variicola by a genetic analysis. A representative isolate (FUJ01370) had a novel multilocus sequence typing allelic profile (gapA-infB-mdh-pgi-phoE-rpoB-tonB: 16-24-21-27-52-17-152), to which sequence type 5794 was assigned (GenBank assembly accession: GCA_019042755.1).

Conclusions

We report a fatal case of respiratory and bloodstream infection due to K. variicola complicating severe COVID-19. Co-infection or secondary infection of K. variicola in COVID-19 is likely under-recognized and can be fulminant as in this case.
Spread and seasonality of COVID-19 pandemic confirmed cases in sub-Saharan Africa: experience from Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Senegal, and Uganda
Authors: Adebowale Ayo S. , Afolabi Rotimi F. , Bello Segun , Salawu Mobolaji M. , Bamgboye Eniola A. , Adeoye Ikeola , Dairo Magbagbeola D. , Kivumbi Betty , Wanyana Irene , Seck Ibrahima , Diallo Issakha , Leye Mamadou M. M. , Bassoum Oumar , Fall Mane , Ndejjo Rawlance , Kabwama Steven N. , Mapatano Mala Ali , Bosonkie Marc , Egbende Landry , Namale Alice , Kizito Susan , Wanyenze Rhoda K. , Fawole Olufunmilayo I.
Published: March 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the world negatively with huge health and socioeconomic consequences. This study estimated the seasonality, trajectory, and projection of COVID-19 cases to understand the dynamics of the disease spread and inform response interventions.

Method

Descriptive analysis of daily confirmed COVID-19 cases from January 2020 to 12th March 2022 was conducted in four purposefully selected sub-Saharan African countries (Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Senegal, and Uganda). We extrapolated the COVID-19 data from (2020 to 2022) to 2023 using a trigonometric time series model. A decomposition time series method was used to examine the seasonality in the data.

Results

Nigeria had the highest rate of spread (β) of COVID-19 (β = 381.2) while DRC had the least rate (β = 119.4). DRC, Uganda, and Senegal had a similar pattern of COVID-19 spread from the onset through December 2020. The average doubling time in COVID-19 case count was highest in Uganda (148 days) and least in Nigeria (83 days). A seasonal variation was found in the COVID-19 data for all four countries but the timing of the cases showed some variations across countries. More cases are expected in the 1st (January-March) and 3rd (July–September) quarters of the year in Nigeria and Senegal, and in the 2nd (April-June) and 3rd (October-December) quarters in DRC and Uganda.

Conclusion

Our findings show a seasonality that may warrant consideration for COVID-19 periodic interventions in the peak seasons in the preparedness and response strategies.
Effects of prenatal exercise on gestational weight gain, obstetric and neonatal outcomes: FitMum randomized controlled trial
Authors: Roland Caroline B. , Knudsen Signe dP. , Alomairah Saud A. , Jessen Anne D. , Jensen Ida K. B. , Brændstrup Nina , Molsted Stig , Jensen Andreas K. , Stallknecht Bente , Bendix Jane M. , Clausen Tine D. , Løkkegaard Ellen
Published: March 2023

Background

To investigate the effects of two different exercise interventions during pregnancy on gestational weight gain (GWG) and obstetric and neonatal outcomes compared to standard care. Additionally, we aimed to improve standardization of GWG measurements by developing a model to estimate GWG for a standardized pregnancy period of 40 weeks and 0 days accounting for individual differences in gestational age (GA) at delivery.

Methods

In a randomized controlled trial we compared the effects of structured supervised exercise training (EXE) three times per week throughout pregnancy versus motivational counselling on physical activity (MOT) seven times during pregnancy with standard care (CON) on GWG and obstetric and neonatal outcomes. Uniquely, to estimate GWG for a standardized pregnancy period, we developed a novel model to predict GWG based on longitudinally observed body weights during pregnancy and at admission for delivery. Observed weights were fitted to a mixed effects model that was used to predict maternal body weight and estimate GWG at different gestational ages. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes, among them gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and birth weight, were obtained after delivery. GWG and the investigated obstetric and neonatal outcomes are secondary outcomes of the randomized controlled trial, which might be underpowered to detect intervention effects on these outcomes.

Results

From 2018–2020, 219 healthy, inactive pregnant women with median pre-pregnancy BMI of 24.1 (21.8–28.7) kg/m2 were included at median GA 12.9 (9.4–13.9) weeks and randomized to EXE (n = 87), MOT (n = 87) or CON (n = 45). In total 178 (81%) completed the study. GWG at GA 40 weeks and 0 days did not differ between groups (CON: 14.9 kg [95% CI, 13.6;16.1]; EXE: 15.7 kg [14.7;16.7]; MOT: 15.0 kg [13.6;16.4], p = 0.538), neither did obstetric nor neonatal outcomes. For example, there were no differences between groups in the proportions of participants developing GDM (CON: 6%, EXE: 7%, MOT: 7%, p = 1.000) or in birth weight (CON: 3630 (3024–3899), EXE: 3768 (3410–4069), MOT: 3665 (3266–3880), p = 0.083).

Conclusions

Neither structured supervised exercise training nor motivational counselling on physical activity during pregnancy affected GWG or obstetric and neonatal outcomes compared to standard care.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT03679130; 20/09/2018.