bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Relationship of Cognitive and Motivational Factors to Sonography Student Performance
Authors: Hathaway Renee B. , Bruning Roger H.
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to explore the cognitive and motivational challenges sonography students encounter by examining the relationships between sonography students’ levels of self-regulation and self-efficacy and their performance in a 16-week introductory vascular sonography skills laboratory course.

Materials and Methods:

Measures for the study were designed to yield qualitative and quantitative data related to student goals, strategies, and course performance and were generated by both students and faculty. Qualitative data from the study included student self-reports of self-regulatory strategies and instructor evaluations of student performance, while quantitative data were provided by instructor and student ratings of performance, student self-efficacy ratings, and student reports on their use of deliberate practice.

Results:

The data showed that many students learning how to perform sonographic examinations encountered motivational challenges that appeared to be tied both to their self-efficacy and their ability to effectively use self-regulatory activities.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study suggest possibilities for improving sonography’s curricular models and teaching strategies toward the goal of making sonography instruction more efficient and effective.
SATIN: a micro and mini satellite mining tool of total genome and coding regions with analysis of perfect repeats polymorphism in coding regions
Authors: Dantas Carlos Willian Dias , da Costa Neto Sebastião Rodrigues , Alves Sandy Ingrid Aguiar , da Costa Pinheiro Kenny , De Los Santos Edian Franklin Franco , Ramos Rommel Thiago Jucá
Published: June 2024

Background

Tandem repeats are specific sequences in genomic DNA repeated in tandem that are present in all organisms. Among the subcategories of TRs we have Satellite repeats, that is divided into macrosatellites, minisatellites, and microsatellites, being the last two of specific interest because they can identify polymorphisms between organisms due to their instability. Currently, most mining tools focus on Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) mining, and only a few can identify SSRs in the coding regions.

Results

We developed a microsatellite mining software called SATIN (Micro and Mini SATellite IdentificatioN tool) based on a new sliding window algorithm written in C and Python. It represents a new approach to SSR mining by addressing the limitations of existing tools, particularly in coding region SSR mining. SATIN is available at https://github.com/labgm/SATIN.git. It was shown to be the second fastest for perfect and compound SSR mining. It can identify SSRs from coding regions plus SSRs with motif sizes bigger than 6. Besides the SSR mining, SATIN can also analyze SSRs polymorphism on coding-regions from pre-determined groups, and identify SSRs differentially abundant among them on a per-gene basis. To validate, we analyzed SSRs from two groups of Escherichia coli (K12 and O157) and compared the results with 5 known SSRs from coding regions. SATIN identified all 5 SSRs from 237 genes with at least one SSR on it.

Conclusions

The SATIN is a novel microsatellite search software that utilizes an innovative sliding window technique based on a numerical list for repeat region search to identify perfect, and composite SSRs while generating comprehensible and analyzable outputs. It is a tool capable of using files in fasta or GenBank format as input for microsatellite mining, also being able to identify SSRs present in coding regions for GenBank files. In conclusion, we expect SATIN to help identify potential SSRs to be used as genetic markers.
Susceptibility gene identification and risk evaluation model construction by transcriptome-wide association analysis for salt sensitivity of blood pressure
Authors: Qi Han , Xie Yun-Yi , Yang Xiao-Jun , Xia Juan , Liu Kuo , Zhang Feng-Xu , Peng Wen-Juan , Wen Fu-Yuan , Li Bing-Xiao , Zhang Bo-Wen , Yao Xin-Yue , Li Bo-Ya , Meng Hong-Dao , Shi Zu-Min , Wang Yang , Zhang Ling
Published: June 2024

Background

Salt sensitivity of blood pressure (SSBP) is an intermediate phenotype of hypertension and is a predictor of long-term cardiovascular events and death. However, the genetic structures of SSBP are uncertain, and it is difficult to precisely diagnose SSBP in population. So, we aimed to identify genes related to susceptibility to the SSBP, construct a risk evaluation model, and explore the potential functions of these genes.

Methods and results

A genome-wide association study of the systemic epidemiology of salt sensitivity (EpiSS) cohort was performed to obtain summary statistics for SSBP. Then, we conducted a transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) of 12 tissues using FUSION software to predict the genes associated with SSBP and verified the genes with an mRNA microarray. The potential roles of the genes were explored. Risk evaluation models of SSBP were constructed based on the serial P value thresholds of polygenetic risk scores (PRSs), polygenic transcriptome risk scores (PTRSs) and their combinations of the identified genes and genetic variants from the TWAS. The TWAS revealed that 2605 genes were significantly associated with SSBP. Among these genes, 69 were differentially expressed according to the microarray analysis. The functional analysis showed that the genes identified in the TWAS were enriched in metabolic process pathways. The PRSs were correlated with PTRSs in the heart atrial appendage, adrenal gland, EBV-transformed lymphocytes, pituitary, artery coronary, artery tibial and whole blood. Multiple logistic regression models revealed that a PRS ofP < 0.05 had the best predictive ability compared with other PRSs and PTRSs. The combinations of PRSs and PTRSs did not significantly increase the prediction accuracy of SSBP in the training and validation datasets.

Conclusions

Several known and novel susceptibility genes for SSBP were identified via multitissue TWAS analysis. The risk evaluation model constructed with the PRS of susceptibility genes showed better diagnostic performance than the transcript levels, which could be applied to screen for SSBP high-risk individuals.
Intestinal parasitic infections in children from marginalised Roma communities: prevalence and risk factors
Authors: Štrkolcová Gabriela , Fiľakovská Bobáková Daniela , Kaduková Michaela , Schreiberová Andrea , Klein Daniel , Halán Miloš , Urbančíková Ingrid
Published: June 2024

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections remain a significant global health issue, particularly affecting poor and marginalised populations. These infections significantly contribute to children’s diseases, malnutrition, poor school performance, cognitive disorders, and future economic losses. This study aimed to explore and compare the occurrence of intestinal parasites in early childhood among the group of infants from the Slovak majority population and from marginalised Roma communities (MRCs). Furthermore, it aimed to explore the health complaints of children with and without intestinal parasitic infection in the past month and assess the effect of various risk factors on the occurrence of intestinal parasitic infection in infants from MRCs.

Methods

We obtained cross-sectional data from mothers and stool samples of their children aged 13–21 months using the first wave of the longitudinal RomaREACH study. A total of 181 stools from infants were analysed: 105 infants from the Slovak majority population and 76 from MRCs.

Results

Infants from MRCs are significantly more often infected byAscaris lumbricoides,Trichuris trichiuraandGiardia duodenalisthan their better-off peers from the majority population. Infection rates are 30% in infants from MRCs vs. 0% in the majority population (p < 0.001). Single and mixed infections were observed in children from MRCs. Infants with intestinal parasitic infections suffer significantly more often from various health complaints, particularly cough, stomach ache, irritability, and diarrhoea. Within MRCs, the risk of parasitic infections in infants is significantly increased by risk factors such as the absence of flushing toilets in households (OR = 4.17,p < 0.05) and contact with un-dewormed animals (OR = 3.61,p < 0.05). Together with the absence of running water in the household, these three factors combined increase the risk more than ten times (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Maintaining hygienic standards in conditions of socioeconomic deprivation in MRCs without running water and sewage in the presence of un-dewormed animals is problematic. These living conditions contribute to the higher prevalence of parasitic infections in children from MRCs, causing various health complaints and thus threatening their health and healthy development.
Characteristics of chronic enteropathy associated with SLCO2A1 gene (CEAS) in children, a unique type of monogenic very early-onset inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Lim Jin Gyu , Ko Jae Sung , Ko Jung Min , Kim Hyun Young , Kim Man Jin , Seong Moon Woo , Choi Young Hun , Kang Gyeong Hoon , Koh Jaemoon , Moon Jin Soo
Published: June 2024

Background

 Chronic enteropathy associated with SLCO2A1 gene (CEAS) is a unique type of inflammatory bowel disease. CEAS is monogenic disease and is thought to develop from childhood, but studies on pediatric CEAS are scarce. We analyzed characteristics of pediatric CEAS.

Methods

Eleven patients diagnosed with CEAS at Seoul National University Children’s Hospital were identified and analyzed. Clinical data of patients were collected. Sanger sequencing of SLCO2A1 was performed on all patients.

Results

Patients were diagnosed at a median age of 16.0 years (IQR 11.0 ~ 20.0), and the median age at symptoms onset was only 4.0 years (IQR 2.5 ~ 6.0). Growth delay was observed at the time of diagnosis. Patients showed multiple ulcers or strictures in the small intestine, while the esophagus and colon were unaffected in any patients. Almost half of the patients underwent small intestine resection. The major laboratory features of pediatric CEAS include iron deficiency anemia (IDA), hypoalbuminemia, and near-normal levels of C-reactive protein (CRP). Two novel mutations of SLCO2A1 were identified. The most prevalent symptoms were abdominal pain and pale face. None of the immunomodulatory drugs showed a significant effect on CEAS.

Conclusions

Pediatric CEAS typically develop from very young age, suggesting it as one type of monogenic very early onset inflammatory bowel disease. CEAS can cause growth delay in children but there is no effective treatment currently. We recommend screening for SLCO2A1 mutations to pediatric patients with chronic IDA from a young age and small intestine ulcers without elevation of CRP levels.
Effectiveness of spaced repetition for clinical problem solving amongst undergraduate medical students studying paediatrics in Pakistan
Authors: Durrani Shazia F. , Yousuf Naveed , Ali Rahila , Musharraf Fatima Fakhir , Hameed Ammara , Raza Hussain Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Background

Studies using spaced repetition for teaching and learning in undergraduate clinical rotations such as paediatrics are limited, even more so in the South Asian region. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the effectiveness of utilizing spaced repetition compared to traditional learning methods among undergraduate medical students during their paediatric rotation at a medical university in Pakistan.

Methods

Bahria University Medical and Dental College (BUMDC) conducted quasii-experimental research in Karachi. Four topics were identified from the Year 5 Pediatrics curriculum to be used in the study, using which the study content was developed along with 50 multiple choice questions (MCQs) for assessment. All BUMDC Year 5 medical students rotating in Pediatrics were included and randomly allocated to the control or intervention group. In the control group, they provided the students with traditional study methods consisting of books and lectures to learn topics. In the intervention group, we created an Anki flashcard deck of the same topics to enable learning via spaced repetition. The researchers conducted a pretest and post test assessment of the 50 MCQs in both groups at the beginning and after the four-week study interval. The data were analysed using SPSS 19.

Results

A total of 115 BUMDC medical students agreed to participate in the study; 70 (59.1%) were in the intervention group, and 45 (41.7%) were in the control group. The pretest mean score of the control group was 27.96 ± 3.70, and the posttest mean score was 27.22 ± 5.02, with no statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level. The mean score of the pretest for the intervention group was 27.93 ± 4.53, and that of the posttest was 30.8 ± 4.56, with a statistically significant difference at the 95% confidence level. The intervention showed a significant effect size of 0.8.

Conclusion

The use of spaced repetitions resulted in significantly greater scores for medical students studying paediatrics than for those using more traditional methods of learning, compromising medical books and lectures. Considering that medical students need to retain a vast amount of information, using spaced repetition through flashcards can be a more effective learning tool that is more cost-efficient and time-efficient than traditional learning methods.
Treating sleep-disordered breathing of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients with CPAP and nocturnal oxygen treatment. A pilot study
Authors: Bordas-Martinez Jaume , Salord Neus , Vicens-Zygmunt Vanesa , Carmezim João , Pérez Sandra , Prado Eliseo , Calvo María , Blavia Rosana , Bermudo Guadalupe , Santos Salud , Monasterio Carmen , Molina-Molina María
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a major comorbidity in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and is associated with a poor outcome. There is a lack of knowledge regarding the impact of SDB treatment on IPF. We assessed at one year: (1) the effect of CPAP and/or nocturnal oxygen therapy on IPF regarding lung function, blood mediators, and quality of life; (2) adherence to SDB treatment and SDB changes.

Methodology

This is a prospective study of consecutive newly diagnosed IPF patients initiating anti-fibrotic treatment. Lung function, polysomnography, blood tests and quality of life questionnaires were performed at inclusion and after one year. Patients were classified as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), central sleep apnoea (CSA), and sleep-sustained hypoxemia (SSH). SDB therapy (CPAP and/or nocturnal oxygen therapy) was initiated if needed.

Results

Fifty patients were enrolled (36% had OSA, 22% CSA, and 12% SSH). CPAP was started in 54% of patients and nocturnal oxygen therapy in 16%. At one-year, polysomnography found improved parameters, though 17% of patients had to add nocturnal oxygen therapy or CPAP, while 33% presented SDB onset at this second polysomnography. CPAP compliance at one year was 6.74 h/night (SD 0.74). After one year, matrix metalloproteinase-1 decreased in OSA and CSA (p = 0.029; p = 0.027), C-reactive protein in OSA (p = 0.045), and surfactant protein D in CSA group (p = 0.074). There was no significant change in lung function.

Conclusions

Treatment of SBD with CPAP and NOT can be well tolerated with a high compliance. IPF patients may exhibit SDB progression and require periodic re-assessment. Further studies to evaluate the impact of SDB treatment on lung function and serological mediators are needed.
Non-invasive diagnosis of esophageal cancer by a simplified circulating cell-free DNA methylation assay targeting OTOP2 and KCNA3: a double-blinded, multicenter, prospective study
Authors: Bian Yan , Gao Ye , Lin Han , Sun Chang , Wang Wei , Sun Siyu , Li Xiuling , Feng Zhijie , Ren Jianlin , Chen Hezhong , Lu Chaojing , Xu Jinfang , Zhou Jun , Wan Kangkang , Xin Lei , Li Zhaoshen , Wang Luowei
Published: June 2024

Background

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a highly lethal disease lacking early detection approaches. We previously identified that OTOP2 and KCNA3 were specifically hypermethylated in circulating cell-free DNA from patients with EC. We then developed a blood-based methylation assay targeting OTOP2 and KCNA3 (named “IEsohunter”) for esophageal cancer noninvasive detection. This double-blinded, multicenter, prospective study aimed to comprehensively evaluate its clinical diagnostic performance.

Methods

Participants with EC, high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN), other malignancies, benign gastrointestinal lesions, or no abnormalities were prospectively enrolled from 5 tertiary referral centers across China. Peripheral blood samples were collected, followed by plasma cell-free DNA methylation analysis using the IEsohunter test based on multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction adopting an algorithm-free interpretation strategy. The primary outcome was the diagnostic accuracy of IEsohunter test for EC.

Results

We prospectively enrolled 1116 participants, including 334 patients with EC, 71 with HGIN, and 711 controls. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of the IEsohunter test for detecting EC and HGIN were 0.903 (95% CI 0.880–0.927) and 0.727 (95% CI 0.653–0.801), respectively. IEsohunter test showed sensitivities of 78.5% (95% CI 69.1–85.6), 87.3% (95% CI 79.4–92.4), 92.5% (95% CI 85.9–96.2), and 96.9% (95% CI 84.3–99.8) for stage I-IV EC, respectively, with an overall sensitivity of 87.4% (95% CI 83.4–90.6) and specificity of 93.3% (95% CI 91.2–94.9) for EC detection. The IEsohunter test status turned negative (100.0%, 47/47) after surgical resection of EC.

Conclusions

The IEsohunter test showed high diagnostic accuracy for EC detection, indicating that it could potentially serve as a tool for noninvasive early detection and surveillance of EC.
The G Protein Estrogen Receptor (GPER) is involved in the resistance to the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib in breast cancer
Authors: Talia Marianna , Cirillo Francesca , Scordamaglia Domenica , Di Dio Marika , Zicarelli Azzurra , De Rosis Salvatore , Miglietta Anna Maria , Capalbo Carlo , De Francesco Ernestina Marianna , Belfiore Antonino , Grande Fedora , Rizzuti Bruno , Occhiuzzi Maria Antonietta , Fortino Giancarlo , Guzzo Antonella , Greco Gianluigi , Maggiolini Marcello , Lappano Rosamaria
Published: June 2024

Background

The cyclin D1-cyclin dependent kinases (CDK)4/6 inhibitor palbociclib in combination with endocrine therapy shows remarkable efficacy in the management of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive and HER2-negative advanced breast cancer (BC). Nevertheless, resistance to palbociclib frequently arises, highlighting the need to identify new targets toward more comprehensive therapeutic strategies in BC patients.

Methods

BC cell lines resistant to palbociclib were generated and used as a model system. Gene silencing techniques and overexpression experiments, real-time PCR, immunoblotting and chromatin immunoprecipitation studies as well as cell viability, colony and 3D spheroid formation assays served to evaluate the involvement of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in the resistance to palbociclib in BC cells. Molecular docking simulations were also performed to investigate the potential interaction of palbociclib with GPER. Furthermore, BC cells co-cultured with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) isolated from mammary carcinoma, were used to investigate whether GPER signaling may contribute to functional cell interactions within the tumor microenvironment toward palbociclib resistance. Finally, by bioinformatics analyses and k-means clustering on clinical and expression data of large cohorts of BC patients, the clinical significance of novel mediators of palbociclib resistance was explored.

Results

Dissecting the molecular events that characterize ER-positive BC cells resistant to palbociclib, the down-regulation of ERα along with the up-regulation of GPER were found. To evaluate the molecular events involved in the up-regulation of GPER, we determined that the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) interacts with the promoter region of GPER and stimulates its expression toward BC cells resistance to palbociclib treatment. Adding further cues to these data, we ascertained that palbociclib does induce pro-inflammatory transcriptional events via GPER signaling in CAFs. Of note, by performing co-culture assays we demonstrated that GPER contributes to the reduced sensitivity to palbociclib also facilitating the functional interaction between BC cells and main components of the tumor microenvironment named CAFs.

Conclusions

Overall, our results provide novel insights on the molecular events through which GPER may contribute to palbociclib resistance in BC cells. Additional investigations are warranted in order to assess whether targeting the GPER-mediated interactions between BC cells and CAFs may be useful in more comprehensive therapeutic approaches of BC resistant to palbociclib.
A radiomics-boosted deep-learning for risk assessment of synchronous peritoneal metastasis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Ding , Zheng BingShu , Xu LiuWei , Wu YiCong , Shen Chen , Bao ShanLei , Tan ZhongHua , Sun ChunFeng
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Synchronous colorectal cancer peritoneal metastasis (CRPM) has a poor prognosis. This study aimed to create a radiomics-boosted deep learning model by PET/CT image for risk assessment of synchronous CRPM.

Methods

A total of 220 colorectal cancer (CRC) cases were enrolled in this study. We mapped the feature maps (Radiomic feature maps (RFMs)) of radiomic features across CT and PET image patches by a 2D sliding kernel. Based on ResNet50, a radiomics-boosted deep learning model was trained using PET/CT image patches and RFMs. Besides that, we explored whether the peritumoral region contributes to the assessment of CRPM. In this study, the performance of each model was evaluated by the area under the curves (AUC).

Results

The AUCs of the radiomics-boosted deep learning model in the training, internal, external, and all validation datasets were 0.926 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.874–0.978), 0.897 (95% CI: 0.801–0.994), 0.885 (95% CI: 0.795–0.975), and 0.889 (95% CI: 0.823–0.954), respectively. This model exhibited consistency in the calibration curve, the Delong test and IDI identified it as the most predictive model.

Conclusions

The radiomics-boosted deep learning model showed superior estimated performance in preoperative prediction of synchronous CRPM from pre-treatment PET/CT, offering potential assistance in the development of more personalized treatment methods and follow-up plans.

Critical relevance statement

The onset of synchronous colorectal CRPM is insidious, and using a radiomics-boosted deep learning model to assess the risk of CRPM before treatment can help make personalized clinical treatment decisions or choose more sensitive follow-up plans.

Key Points

Prognosis for patients with CRPM is bleak, and early detection poses challenges.

The synergy between radiomics and deep learning proves advantageous in evaluating CRPM.

The radiomics-boosted deep-learning model proves valuable in tailoring treatment approaches for CRC patients.

Graphical Abstract
LncRNA SNHG1 enhances cartilage regeneration by modulating chondrogenic differentiation and angiogenesis potentials of JBMMSCs via mitochondrial function regulation
Authors: Liu Hua , Liu Huina , Yang Qiubo , Fan Zhipeng
Published: June 2024

Background

Cartilage is a kind of avascular tissue, and it is difficult to repair itself when it is damaged. In this study, we investigated the regulation of chondrogenic differentiation and vascular formation in human jaw bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (h-JBMMSCs) by the long-chain noncoding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 1 (SNHG1) during cartilage tissue regeneration.

Methods

JBMMSCs were isolated from the jaws via the adherent method. The effects of lncRNA SNHG1 on the chondrogenic differentiation of JBMMSCs in vitro were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), Pellet experiment, Alcian blue staining, Masson’s trichrome staining, and modified Sirius red staining. RT-qPCR, matrix gel tube formation, and coculture experiments were used to determine the effect of lncRNA SNHG1 on the angiogenesis in JBMMSCs in vitro. A model of knee cartilage defects in New Zealand rabbits and a model of subcutaneous matrix rubber suppositories in nude mice were constructed for in vivo experiments. Changes in mitochondrial function were detected via RT-qPCR, dihydroethidium (DHE) staining, MitoSOX staining, tetramethyl rhodamine methyl ester (TMRM) staining, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) detection. Western blotting was used to detect the phosphorylation level of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3).

Results

Alcian blue staining, Masson’s trichrome staining, and modified Sirius Red staining showed that lncRNA SNHG1 promoted chondrogenic differentiation. The lncRNA SNHG1 promoted angiogenesis in vitro and the formation of microvessels in vivo. The lncRNA SNHG1 promoted the repair and regeneration of rabbit knee cartilage tissue. Western blot and alcian blue staining showed that the JAK inhibitor reduced the increase of STAT3 phosphorylation level and staining deepening caused by SNHG1. Mitochondrial correlation analysis revealed that the lncRNA SNHG1 led to a decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, an increase in mitochondrial membrane potential and an increase in ATP levels. Alcian blue staining showed that the ROS inhibitor significantly alleviated the decrease in blue fluorescence caused by SNHG1 knockdown.

Conclusions

The lncRNA SNHG1 promotes chondrogenic differentiation and angiogenesis of JBMMSCs. The lncRNA SNHG1 regulates the phosphorylation of STAT3, reduces the level of ROS, regulates mitochondrial energy metabolism, and ultimately promotes cartilage regeneration.
Regenerative medicine in the treatment of specific dermatologic disorders: a systematic review of randomized controlled clinical trials
Authors: Jafarzadeh Alireza , Pour Mohammad Arash , Keramati Haniyeh , Zeinali Roya , Khosravi Mina , Goodarzi Azadeh
Published: June 2024

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study is to systematically review randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) studying various types of regenerative medicine methods (such as platelet-rich plasma, stromal vascular fraction, cell therapy, conditioned media, etc.) in treating specific dermatologic diseases. Rejuvenation, scarring, wound healing, and other secondary conditions of skin damage were not investigated in this study.

Method

Major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, were meticulously searched for RCTs up to January 2024, focusing on regenerative medicine interventions for specific dermatologic disorders (such as androgenetic alopecia, vitiligo, alopecia areata, etc.). Key data extracted encompassed participant characteristics and sample sizes, types of regenerative therapy, treatment efficacy, and adverse events.

Results

In this systematic review, 64 studies involving a total of 2888 patients were examined. Women constituted 44.8% of the study population, while men made up 55.2% of the participants, with an average age of 27.64 years. The most frequently studied skin diseases were androgenetic alopecia (AGA) (45.3%) and vitiligo (31.2%). The most common regenerative methods investigated for these diseases were PRP and the transplantation of autologous epidermal melanocyte/keratinocyte cells, respectively. Studies reported up to 68.4% improvement in AGA and up to 71% improvement in vitiligo. Other diseases included in the review were alopecia areata, melasma, lichen sclerosus et atrophicus (LSA), inflammatory acne vulgaris, chronic telogen effluvium, erosive oral lichen planus, and dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Regenerative medicine was found to be an effective treatment option in all of these studies, along with other methods. The regenerative medicine techniques investigated in this study comprised the transplantation of autologous epidermal melanocyte/keratinocyte cells, isolated melanocyte transplantation, cell transplantation from hair follicle origins, melanocyte–keratinocyte suspension in PRP, conditioned media injection, a combination of PRP and basic fibroblast growth factor, intravenous injection of mesenchymal stem cells, concentrated growth factor, stromal vascular fraction (SVF), a combination of PRP and SVF, and preserving hair grafts in PRP.

Conclusion

Regenerative medicine holds promise as a treatment for specific dermatologic disorders. To validate our findings, it is recommended to conduct numerous clinical trials focusing on various skin conditions. In our study, we did not explore secondary skin lesions like scars or ulcers. Therefore, assessing the effectiveness of this treatment method for addressing these conditions would necessitate a separate study.
Inadequate intensive care physician supply in France: a point-prevalence prospective study
Authors: Sarfati Sacha , Ehrmann Stephan , Vodovar Dominique , Jung Boris , Aissaoui Nadia , Darreau Cédric , Bougouin Wulfran , Deye Nicolas , Kallel Hatem , Kuteifan Khaldoun , Luyt Charles-Edouard , Terzi Nicolas , Vanderlinden Thierry , Vinsonneau Christophe , Muller Grégoire , Guitton Christophe ,   CEMIR (Collège des Enseignants de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, French National College of Intensive Care Scholars),   CNP MIR. (Conseil National Professionel de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, French National Council of Intensive Care Medicine)
Published: June 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of intensive care units (ICUs) and their organization in healthcare systems. However, ICU capacity and availability are ongoing concerns beyond the pandemic, particularly due to an aging population and increasing complexity of care. This study aimed to assess the current and future shortage of ICU physicians in France, ten years after a previous evaluation. A national e-survey was conducted among French ICUs in January 2022 to collect data on ICU characteristics, medical staffing, individual physician characteristics, and education and training capacities.

Results

Among 290 ICUs contacted, 242 responded (response rate: 83%), representing 4943 ICU beds. The survey revealed an overall of 300 full time equivalent (FTE) ICU physician vacancies in the country. Nearly two-thirds of the participating ICUs reported at least one physician vacancy and 35% relied on traveling physicians to cover shifts. The ICUs most affected by physician vacancies were the ICUs of non-university affiliated public hospitals. The retirements expected in the next five years represented around 10% of the workforce. The median number of physicians per ICU was 7.0, corresponding to a ratio of 0.36 physician (FTE) per ICU bed. In addition, 27% of ICUs were at risk of critical dysfunction or closure due to vacancies and impending retirements.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the urgent need to address the shortage of ICU physicians in France. Compared to a similar study conducted in 2012, the inadequacy between ICU physician supply and demand has increased, resulting in a higher number of vacancies. Our study suggests that, among others, increasing the number of ICM residents trained each year could be a crucial step in addressing this issue. Failure to take appropriate measures may lead to further closures of ICUs and increased risks to patients in this healthcare system.
Early and late effects of volatile sedation with sevoflurane on respiratory mechanics of critically ill COPD patients
Authors: Jung Boris , Fosset Maxime , Amalric Matthieu , Baedorf-Kassis Elias , O’Gara Brian , Sarge Todd , Moulaire Valerie , Brunot Vincent , Bourdin Arnaud , Molinari Nicolas , Matecki Stefan
Published: June 2024

Background

The objective was to compare sevoflurane, a volatile sedation agent with potential bronchodilatory properties, with propofol on respiratory mechanics in critically ill patients with COPD exacerbation.

Methods

Prospective study in an ICU enrolling critically ill intubated patients with severe COPD exacerbation and comparing propofol and sevoflurane after 1:1 randomisation. Respiratory system mechanics (airway resistance, PEEPi, trapped volume, ventilatory ratio and respiratory system compliance), gas exchange, vitals, safety and outcome were measured at inclusion and then until H48. Total airway resistance change from baseline to H48 in both sevoflurane and propofol groups was the main endpoint.

Results

Sixteen patients were enrolled and were sedated for 126 h(61–228) in the propofol group and 207 h(171–216) in the sevoflurane group. At baseline, airway resistance was 21.6cmH2O/l/s(19.8–21.6) in the propofol group and 20.4cmH2O/l/s(18.6–26.4) in the sevoflurane group, (p = 0.73); trapped volume was 260 ml(176–290) in the propofol group and 73 ml(35–126) in the sevoflurane group,p = 0.02. Intrinsic PEEP was 1.5cmH2O(1–3) in both groups after external PEEP optimization. There was neither early (H4) or late (H48) significant difference in airway resistance and respiratory mechanics parameters between the two groups.

Conclusions

In critically ill patients intubated with COPD exacerbation, there was no significant difference in respiratory mechanics between sevoflurane and propofol from inclusion to H4 and H48.
Rapid induction of transdermal buprenorphine to subcutaneous extended-release buprenorphine for the treatment of opioid use disorder
Authors: Azar Pouya , Schneiderman Hannah , Barron Henry , Wong James S. H. , Meyer Maximilian , Newman-Azar Dayyon , Narimani Matin , Ignaszewski Martha J. , Mathew Nickie , Mullen Rodney , Krausz Reinhard M. , Maharaj Anil R.
Published: June 2024

Background

Buprenorphine is an effective and safe treatment for opioid use disorder, but the requirement for moderate opioid withdrawal symptoms to emerge prior to initiation is a significant treatment barrier.

Case Presentation

We report on two cases of hospitalized patients with severe, active opioid use disorder, in which we initiated treatment with transdermal buprenorphine over 48 h, followed by the administration of a single dose of sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone and then extended-release subcutaneous buprenorphine. The patients did not experience precipitated withdrawal and only had mild withdrawal symptoms.

Conclusions

This provides preliminary evidence for a rapid induction strategy that may improve tolerability, caregiver burden, and treatment retention as compared to previous induction strategies.
Gram-negative bacterial infections in surgical intensive care unit patients following abdominal surgery: high mortality associated with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infection
Authors: Lin Ting-Lung , Chang Po-Hsun , Liu Yueh-Wei , Lai Wei-Hung , Chen Ying-Ju , Chen I-Ling , Li Wei-Feng , Wang Chih-Chi , Lee Ing-Kit
Published: June 2024

Background

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, a multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria (GNB), is an emerging nosocomial pathogen. This study assessed the clinical outcomes of GNB infections in surgical intensive care unit (SICU) patients post-abdominal surgery, focusing on the differences between S. maltophilia and other GNBs, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on SICU patients at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital from 2010 to 2020, who developed GNB infections following abdominal surgery.

Results

Of 442 patients, 237 had S. maltophilia and 205 had non-S. maltophilia GNB infections (including 81 with P. aeruginosa). The overall mortality rate was 44.5%, and S. maltophilia infection emerged as a significant contributor to the mortality rate in patients with GNB infections. S. maltophilia patients had longer mechanical ventilation and SICU stays, with a 30-day mortality rate of 35.4%, higher than the non-S. maltophilia GNB (22.9%) and P. aeruginosa (21%) groups. In-hospital mortality was also higher in the S. maltophilia group (53.2%) compared to the non-S. maltophilia GNB (34.6%) and P. aeruginosa groups (29.6%). Risk factors for acquiring S. maltophilia included a higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score and prior broad-spectrum antibiotics use. Older age, polymicrobial infections, and elevated bilirubin were associated with increased 30-day mortality in S. maltophilia patients.

Conclusion

S. maltophilia infections in post-abdominal surgery patients are linked to higher mortality than non-S. maltophilia GNB and P. aeruginosa infections, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and treatment to improve outcomes.
Dissemination of clinical Escherichia coli strains harboring mcr-1, blaNDM−7 and siderophore-producing plasmids in a Chinese hospital
Authors: Liu Lihua , Zhao Mingqi , Tang Yanhua , Shen Aihua , Yang Xiao , Yao Li , Tian Dongxing
Published: June 2024

Background

Carbapenem-resistant E. coli (CREco) pose a significant public health threat due to their multidrug resistance. Colistin is often a last-resort treatment against CREco; however, the emergence of colistin resistance gene mcr-1 complicates treatment options.

Methods

Two E. coli strains (ECO20 and ECO21), recovered from hospitalized patients in distinct wards, exhibited resistance to carbapenems and colistin. Whole-genome sequencing and phenotypic characterization were employed to study resistance patterns, plasmid profiles, transferability of resistance and virulence genes, and siderophore production capabilities. Comparative genome analysis was used to investigate the genetic environment of mcr-1, blaNDM−7, and virulence clusters.

Results

Both E. coli strains exhibited thr presence of both mcr-1 and blaNDM−7 genes, showing high resistance to multiple antibiotics. Genomic analysis revealed the clonal transmission of these strains, possessing identical plasmid profiles (pMCR, pNDM, and pVir) associated with colistin resistance, carbapenem resistance, and virulence factors. Conjugation experiments confirmed the transferability of these plasmids, indicating their potential to disseminate resistance and virulence traits to other strains. Comparative genomic analyses unveiled the distribution of mcr-1 (IncX4-type) and blaNDM (IncX3-type) plasmids across diverse bacterial species, emphasizing their adaptability and threat. The novelty of pVir indicates its potential role in driving the evolution of highly adaptable and pathogenic strains.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the co-occurrence of mcr-1, blaNDM−7, and siderophore-producing plasmids in E. coli, which poses a significant concern for global health. This research is crucial to unravel the complex mechanisms governing plasmid transfer and recombination and to devise robust strategies to control their spread in healthcare settings.
Innovations and development of sustainable personal protective equipment: a path to a greener future
Authors: Lyu Linxiang , Bagchi Monisha , Markoglou Nektaria , An Chunjiang
Published: June 2024

The unprecedented surge in the demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) worldwide during the covid pandemic resulted in a significant increase in PPE consumption and subsequent waste generation. Despite the importance of PPE, its widespread usage and disposal have sparked worries about the environmental impact and its long-term sustainability. The increasing awareness of environmental challenges, resource scarcity, and the urgent need to mitigate climate change necessitates a paradigm shift in the product design, manufacturing process, and waste management of PPE. To address these challenges and have a sustainable PPE future, the development of degradable polymers and natural fibers offers a promising alternative to traditional plastics. Additionally, recycling and upcycling methods can convert the waste into valuable alternate products or energy sources, thereby reducing their environmental impact. Better waste management systems, comprehensive policy frameworks, and international collaborations are essential for the effective PPE waste management and the promotion of sustainable practices. Despite the challenges, collaborative efforts across governments, manufacturers, research institutions, and waste management authorities are crucial for transitioning to a more sustainable PPE industry and a circular economy, ultimately benefiting both the environment and society.
Social media use and weight bias internalization: association moderated by age and weight perception
Authors: Moufawad Michelle , Hoque Asef , Kells Meredith , Sonneville Kendrin R. , Hahn Samantha L.
Published: June 2024

Background

The current study examined whether weight perception or age moderated associations between time spent on image-based social media and weight bias internalization (WBI).

Methods

Data come from the baseline visit of the Tracking Our Lives Study, a randomized control trial of college women (n = 200). Participants completed questionnaires assessing time spent on social media (continuous, overall and individual platforms Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat), WBI (continuous), weight perception (perceive their weight as “overweight” vs. do not perceive their weight as “overweight”), age (continuous, 18–49 years), and confounders (race/ethnicity, parent education, sexual orientation, and BMI). Adjusted zero-inflated Poisson regressions were performed to determine if weight perception and age moderated associations between time spent on image-based social media and WBI.

Results

As expected, we found a positive association between overall time spent on image-based social media and WBI (β = 0.826, p < 0.001). In moderation analyses, the strength of the association was weakened among women who perceived their weight as “overweight” (β=-0.018, p = 0.006). Associations also weakened with age (β=-0.001, p < 0.001). The association between time spent on Instagram and WBI was also weakened with age (β=-0.014, p = 0.018), which was the only significant moderation found for individual social media platforms.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that image-based social media use is more strongly associated with increases in WBI among younger women.
The synergistic influence of metal cations on the drying and viscosity of linseed oil assessed by means of model samples containing synthesised metal carboxylates
Authors: Kirkpatrick S. , Sanyova J. , Janssens K. , Van der Snickt G.
Published: June 2024

The recent multi-analytical study carried out on the Van Eyck’s Ghent Altarpiece showed the simultaneous presence of several kinds of metal carboxylates in oil-rich glaze layers. This outcome raised the question whether these carboxylates had already formed during the preparation of the oil binder by the artists. In the case of early-stage formation, they may have had an impact on the drying rate of the resulting oil, as well as on its handling properties. This hypothesis was investigated using a model system of in-house-prepared linseed oil containing incremental concentrations (2–5–10 wt.%) of relevant metal carboxylates (i.e. Ca-, Zn-, Cu-, and Pb oleates and stearates). This paper describes the influence of these type of molecules on the drying rate of linseed oil and, to an extent, on its viscosity. The drying time of the linseed oil, to which one or more metal carboxylates were added, was measured with a drying recorder while the viscosity was assessed with a rheometer. When introduced together, some of these metal carboxylates act in synergy to shorten the drying time with respect to the situation when the same metal carboxylates were added separately to linseed oil. Mixtures of Ca- and Zn-oleates proved to have a larger effect than other binary combinations. Addition of two metal oleates (combination of Ca/Zn/Cu/Pb) reduced the drying time even more. On the other hand, specific combinations of three metal stearates and/or oleates also demonstrated a significant synergistic effect towards increasing the viscosity of the binder. Especially combinations of Ca/Zn/Cu and Ca/Zn/Pb stearates and oleates gave rise to the highest level of linseed oil viscosity increase, when compared to the situation in which the same metal carboxylates were added separately.
The effects of over-reliance on AI dialogue systems on students' cognitive abilities: a systematic review
Authors: Zhai Chunpeng , Wibowo Santoso , Li Lily D.
Published: June 2024

The growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) dialogue systems within educational and research settings highlights the importance of learning aids. Despite examination of the ethical concerns associated with these technologies, there is a noticeable gap in investigations on how these ethical issues of AI contribute to students’ over-reliance on AI dialogue systems, and how such over-reliance affects students’ cognitive abilities. Overreliance on AI occurs when users accept AI-generated recommendations without question, leading to errors in task performance in the context of decision-making. This typically arises when individuals struggle to assess the reliability of AI or how much trust to place in its suggestions. This systematic review investigates how students’ over-reliance on AI dialogue systems, particularly those embedded with generative models for academic research and learning, affects their critical cognitive capabilities including decision-making, critical thinking, and analytical reasoning. By using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, our systematic review evaluated a body of literature addressing the contributing factors and effects of such over-reliance within educational and research contexts. The comprehensive literature review spanned 14 articles retrieved from four distinguished databases: ProQuest, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Our findings indicate that over-reliance stemming from ethical issues of AI impacts cognitive abilities, as individuals increasingly favor fast and optimal solutions over slow ones constrained by practicality. This tendency explains why users prefer efficient cognitive shortcuts, or heuristics, even amidst the ethical issues presented by AI technologies.
A neural network approach for the reliability analysis on failure of shallow foundations on cohesive soils
Authors: Savvides Ambrosios A. , Papadopoulos Leonidas
Published: June 2024

A collection of feed forward neural networks (FNN) for estimating the limit pressure load and the according displacements at limit state of a footing settlement is presented. The training procedure is through supervised learning with error loss function the mean squared error norm. The input dataset is originated from Monte Carlo simulations for a variety of loadings and stochastic uncertainty of the material of the clayey soil domain. The material yield function is the Modified Cam Clay model. The accuracy of the FNN’s is in terms of relative error no more than $$10^{-5}$$

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and this applies to all output variables. Furthermore, the epochs of the training of the FNN’s required for construction are found to be small in amount, in the order of magnitude of 90,000, leading to an alleviated data cost and computational expense. The input uncertainty of Karhunen Loeve random field sum appears to provide the most detrimental values for the displacement field of the soil domain. The most unfavorable situation for the displacement field result to limit displacements in the order of magnitude of 0.05 m, that may result to structural collapse if they appear to the founded structure. These series can provide an easy and reliable estimation for the failure of shallow foundation and therefore it can be a useful implement for geotechnical engineering analysis and design.