bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Timely Identification of Patients With Cancer and Family Caregivers in Need of End-of-Life Discussions by Home-Visit Nurses in Japan: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Asaumi Kurumi , Oki Masataka , Murakami Yoshie
Published: January 2023

End-of-life (EOL) discussions for patients with cancer are a key factor of successful EOL care; however, identifying the optimal timing for these discussions in Japanese home-care settings is difficult. To identify the time at which patients with cancer and their caregivers need EOL discussions, we explored when home-visit nurses start EOL discussions. We interviewed 23 home-visit nurses and analyzed the data using qualitative content analysis. Three themes were derived from the analysis. Participants identified the timing of EOL discussions as being sensitive to patients’ changing health and care needs (increases in patient’s total pain), changes in the family caregiver’s physical or mental condition through daily care (increases in family caregiver distress), and the EOL process that patients follow (trajectory of disease). Developing a tool or in-service educational program that will enable inexperienced or new graduate home-visit nurses to implement EOL discussions at appropriate times is necessary.
Rational numbers and proportional reasoning in Chinese primary schools: Patterns, latent classes, and reasoning processes
Authors: Miao Zhenzhen , Bokhove Christian , Reynolds David , Charalambous Charalambos Y.
Published: January 2023

Rational numbers and proportional reasoning are challenging topics in school mathematics. Though much research has been conducted, the learning of these topics is rarely explored among learners taught by expert teachers. Existing research also lacks sufficient attention toward latent classes and reasoning processes among primary learners at scale. The current study thus looks into the learning of the topics among 2,642 fifth and sixth graders taught by master mathematics teachers in China. Utilizing items identified as top level tasks in previous research, the article captures performance patterns, latent classes and reasoning processes of the learners, from a cross-sectional perspective. Data are analyzed with Rasch, mixture Rasch model (MRM), and complementary statistical methods. Variation between grades and gender is scrutinized where possible. The results show that, at the macro level, students have an average success rate of 78%, 78%, and 52% in decimals, fractions, and proportional reasoning, respectively; sixth graders outperform fifth graders; gender gap exists in the majority of Grade 5 but closes in Grade 6. At the meso level, two to three latent classes emerge in each grade with differential performance. Microlevel analyses show that different characteristics of reasoning lead to different performance of members affiliated to different latent classes.
Upregulation of the c-MYC oncogene and adjacent long noncoding RNAs PVT1 and CCAT1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Roohinejad Zahra , Bahramian Shabbou , Shamsabadi Fatemeh Tash , Sahebi Reza , Amini Abolfazl , Sabour Davood , Shafiee Mohammad
Published: January 2023

Background

All cell types express long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which have the potential to play a role in carcinogenesis by altering the levels of their expression. Squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus (ESCC) is a deadly disease with a poor prognosis and a high frequency of lymphatic metastases. Understanding the functional role and signaling pathways of two neighboring lncRNAs, CCAT1 and PVT1, in this oncogene’s pathogenesis may help us determine ESCC. Furthermore, it is still unclear whether these lncRNAs are linked to the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with ESCC.

Methods

For this study, we used biopsy from the Imam Khomeini Cancer Institute’s tumor bank in Tehran, Iran to obtain 40 ESCC tumor samples and their normal margin counterparts. The expression levels of the CCAT1, PVT1, and c-MYC genes were assessed using quantitative Real-Time RT-PCR. Additionally, demographic data and clinical-pathologic characteristics, such as tumor grade, tumor stage, lymph node, and metastasis, were taken into consideration. Graphpad prism version 8 was used for bioinformatics analyses.

Results

Comparing ESCC tissues to non-tumor tissues, we found significant upregulation of PVT1, CCAT1, and c-MYC. Patients with ESCC who had increased PVT1 expression also had higher rates of advanced stage and lymph node metastasis, whereas increased CCAT1 expression was only linked to advanced stage and wasn’t associated with lymph node metastasis. In predicting ESCC, CCAT1 (p < 0.05) was found to be an important factor. Overall survival was reduced by c-MYC and PVT1 overexpression (p < 0.001), according to Kaplan-Meier analysis. PVT1, CCAT1, and c-MYC were found to interact with 23 miRNAs with high and medium score classes, as shown in a bioinformatics study. We summarized the experimentally proven interactions between c-MYC, PVT1, and CCAT1 and other miRNAs, lncRNAs, and proteins.

Conclusion

This is the first report that CCAT1, PVT1 and c-MYC have been found to be up-regulated simultaneously in ESCC. It is possible that these genes may be involved in ESCC as a result of these findings. Therefore, as consequence, more research is needed to determine whether or not these lncRNAs play an oncogenic role in ESCC development and progression, as well as the regulatory mechanisms that control them.
The potential public health impact of adolescent 4CMenB vaccination on Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection in England: a modelling study
Authors: Looker Katharine J. , Booton Ross , Begum Najida , Beck Ekkehard , Shen Jing , Turner Katherine M. E. , Christensen Hannah
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Diagnoses of gonorrhoea in England rose by 26% between 2018 and 2019. Recent evidence that a vaccine against meningococcal B disease currently offered to infants in the UK (4CMenB) could additionally protect (with 31% efficacy) against gonorrhoea has led to renewed hope for a vaccine. A Phase 2 proof-of-concept trial of 4CMenB vaccination against gonorrhoea in adults is currently underway.

Objectives

To investigate the potential public health impact of adolescent gonorrhoea vaccination in England, considering different implementation strategies.

Methods

We developed a deterministic transmission-dynamic model of gonorrhoea infection among heterosexual 13–64-year-olds stratified by age, sex and sexual activity. We explored the impact of a National Immunisation Programme (NIP) among 14-year-olds for a vaccine with 31% efficacy, 6 years’ duration of protection, and 85% uptake. We also explored how impact might change for varying efficacy (20–50%) and uptake (75–95%), the addition of a catch-up programme, the use of boosters, and varying duration of protection.

Results

An NIP against gonorrhoea could lead to 50,000 (95% credible interval, CrI 31,000-80,000) and 849,000 (95%CrI 476,000-1,568,000) gonorrhoea infections being averted over 10 and 70 years, respectively, in England, for a vaccine with 31% efficacy and 85% uptake. This is equivalent to 25% (95%CrI 17–33%) of heterosexual infections being averted over 70 years. Vaccine impact is predicted to increase over time and be greatest among 13–18-year-olds (39% of infections 95%CrI 31–49% averted) over 70 years. Varying vaccine efficacy and duration of protection had a noticeable effect on impact. Catch-up and booster vaccination increased the short- and long-term impact, respectively.

Conclusions

A partially-effective vaccine against gonorrhoea infection, delivered to 14-year-olds alongside the MenACWY vaccine, could have an important population impact on gonorrhoea. Catch-up and booster vaccination could be considered alongside cohort vaccination to increase impact.
The efficacy of maternal health education and maternal screening on knowledge and the uptake of infant screening for sickle cell disease in Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania; a quasi experimental study
Authors: Tutuba Hilda J. , Jonathan Agnes , Lloyd William , Masamu Upendo , Marco Emanuela , Makani Julie , Ruggajo Paschal , Kidenya Benson R. , Minja Irene K. , Balandya Emmanuel
Published: January 2023

Background

Globally, Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the most common genetic disease with high childhood mortality. Early identification of babies with SCD through newborn screening (NBS) and linking them to care are among the recommended interventions. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of maternal health education and maternal screening for SCD on knowledge and the uptake of infant screening for SCD among mother-infant pairs attending antenatal clinics at Government health facilities in Dar-es-salaam, Tanzania. 

Methods

This study was a pre-test post-test, quasi-experimental which involved pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at three hospitals; Mbagala hospital, Sinza hospital and Buguruni health center in Dar Es Salaam. A structured questionnaire was used in data collection. Knowledge on SCD was assessed for all participants before and after two sessions of health education. Participants in Mbagala and Buguruni were also screened for SCD using Sickle SCAN point-of-care test (BioMedomics Inc, USA). The efficacy for health education intervention was computed as the post-intervention minus baseline knowledge score. For proportions, a two-sample z-test was used. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the efficacy of health education intervention and also predictors of infant diagnosis. 

Results

For two sessions of health education intervention, a total of 467 pregnant women completed the sessions. During antenatal visits, a total of 218 were screened for SCD. The proportion of participants with good knowledge of SCD had significantly increased to 85.9% from 12.4% at baseline following the education intervention. In multivariate analysis, sharing the received education on SCD was an independent predictor of the efficacy of health education intervention. Maternal occupation, maternal SCD status as well as sharing the received education on SCD were independent predictors of the uptake of SCD infant diagnosis.

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated that maternal health education and maternal screening for SCD are feasible and efficacious interventions in raising knowledge and improving the uptake of infant diagnosis for SCD. These interventions are strongly recommended to be included in the comprehensive care package for pregnant women attending antenatal clinics, particularly in areas with a high burden of SCD.
Late initiation of antenatal care among pregnant women in Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia: a facility based cross-sectional study
Authors: Girma Niguse , Abdo Meyrema , Kalu Sultan , Alemayehu Afework , Mulatu Teshale , Hassen Tahir Ahmed , Roba Kedir Teji
Published: January 2023

Background

Antenatal care (ANC) is the care given to pregnant women to prevent poor feto-maternal outcomes during pregnancy. The World Health Organization recommends first ANC visit be started as early as possible within in 12 weeks of gestation. Although there is improvement in overall ANC coverage, a sizable proportion of pregnant women in Ethiopia delay the time to initiate their first ANC visit. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate factors associated with late ANC initiation among pregnant women attending public health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 randomly selected pregnant women who attended ANC at selected public health centers in Addis Ababa from December 2020 to January 2021. Data were collected using pretested and structured questionnaires through a face-to-face interview and reviewing medical records. Binary and multivariable logistic regressions were fitted sequentially to identify predictors for late ANC initiation. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% CI were computed to measure the strength of associations and statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05.

Result

This study showed that 47% of pregnant women started their first ANC visit late.The age of 30 years and above, being married, unplanned pregnancy, having a wrong perception about the timing of the first ANC visit, and not having ANC for previous pregnancy was significantly associated with late ANC initiation.

Conclusion

Nearly half of the women initiated their first ANC visit late. Tailored interventions aimed at promoting early ANC initiation should target married women, women with an unplanned pregnancy, women who perceived the wrong timing of their first ANC, and those who have no ANC for their previous pregnancy.
Screening of major hepatotoxic components of Tripterygium wilfordii based on hepatotoxic injury patterns
Authors: Li Meng , Luo Qiong , Chen Xi , Qiu Furong , Tao Yanyan , Sun Xin , Liu Chenghai
Published: January 2023

Background

Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F. (TwHF), a traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Due to multiorgan toxicity, particularly hepatotoxicity, the application of TwHF is restricted. To clarify the hepatotoxic substances, zebrafish, hepatocytes and macrophages were used for screening based on hepatotoxic injury patterns. This study provides a basis for further elucidation of the hepatotoxic mechanism of TwHF.

Methods

First, 12 compounds were selected according to the chemical categories of TwHF. The fluorescence area and fluorescence intensity of zebrafish livers were observed and calculated. The viability of two hepatocyte lines was detected by CCK8 assay. TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA expression in bone marrow-derived macrophages was used to evaluate macrophage activation, a factor of potential indirect hepatotoxicity. Finally, the hepatotoxic characteristics of 4 representative components were verified in mice in vivo.

Results

Parthenolide, triptolide, triptonide, triptobenzene H, celastrol, demethylzeylasteral, wilforlide A, triptotriterpenic acid A and regelidine significantly reduced the fluorescence area and fluorescence intensity of zebrafish livers. The viability of L-02 or AML-12 cells was significantly inhibited by parthenolide, triptolide, triptonide, celastrol, demethylzeylasteral, and triptotriterpenic acid A. Parthenolide, triptolide, triptonide, celastrol, demethylzeylasteral and triptobenzene H significantly increased TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA levels in macrophages, while triptophenolide, hypodiolide and wilforine significantly reduced TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA levels. Triptotriterpenic acid A, celastrol and triptobenzene H at a dose of 10 mg/kg significantly increased the levels of mouse serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase and aggravated liver inflammation.

Conclusions

Parthenolide, triptolide, triptonide, celastrol, demethylzeylasteral, triptotriterpenic acid A and triptobenzene H might be the main hepatotoxic components of TwFH. Among them, only triptotriterpenic acid A presents direct hepatotoxicity. Triptobenzene H exerts indirect liver damage by activating macrophages. Parthenolide, triptolide, triptonide, celastrol, and demethylzeylasteral can directly and indirectly cause liver injury.
Tumor-secreted exosomal miR-141 activates tumor-stroma interactions and controls premetastatic niche formation in ovarian cancer metastasis
Authors: Mo Yulan , Leung Leanne L. , Mak Celia S. L. , Wang Xueyu , Chan Wai-Sun , Hui Lynn M. N. , Tang Hermit W. M. , Siu Michelle K. Y. , Sharma Rakesh , Xu Dakang , Tsui Stephen K. W. , Ngan Hextan Y. S. , Yung Mingo M. H. , Chan Karen K. L. , Chan David W.
Published: January 2023

Background

Metastatic colonization is one of the critical steps in tumor metastasis. A pre-metastatic niche is required for metastatic colonization and is determined by tumor-stroma interactions, yet the mechanistic underpinnings remain incompletely understood.

Methods

PCR-based miRNome profiling, qPCR, immunofluorescent analyses evaluated the expression of exosomal miR-141 and cell-to-cell communication. LC-MS/MS proteomic profiling and Dual-Luciferase analyses identified YAP1 as the direct target of miR-141. Human cytokine profiling, ChIP, luciferase reporter assays, and subcellular fractionation analyses confirmed YAP1 in modulating GROα production. A series of in vitro tumorigenic assays, an ex vivo model and Yap1 stromal conditional knockout (cKO) mouse model demonstrated the roles of miR-141/YAP1/GROα/CXCR1/2 signaling cascade. RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPRi systems were used for gene silencing. Blood sera, OvCa tumor tissue samples, and tissue array were included for clinical correlations.

Results

Hsa-miR-141-3p (miR-141), an exosomal miRNA, is highly secreted by ovarian cancer cells and reprograms stromal fibroblasts into proinflammatory cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), facilitating metastatic colonization. A mechanistic study showed that miR-141 targeted YAP1, a critical effector of the Hippo pathway, reducing the nuclear YAP1/TAZ ratio and enhancing GROα production from stromal fibroblasts. Stromal-specific knockout (cKO) of Yap1 in murine models shaped the GROα-enriched microenvironment, facilitating in vivo tumor colonization, but this effect was reversed after Cxcr1/2 depletion in OvCa cells. The YAP1/GROα correlation was demonstrated in clinical samples, highlighting the clinical relevance of this research and providing a potential therapeutic intervention for impeding premetastatic niche formation and metastatic progression of ovarian cancers.

Conclusions

This study uncovers miR-141 as an OvCa-derived exosomal microRNA mediating the tumor-stroma interactions and the formation of tumor-promoting stromal niche through activating YAP1/GROα/CXCRs signaling cascade, providing new insight into therapy for OvCa patients with peritoneal metastases.
Inadequate response to antiplatelet therapy in patients with peripheral artery disease: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kremers B. M. M. , Daemen J. H. C. , ten Cate H. , Spronk H. M. H. , Mees B. M. E. , ten Cate-Hoek A. J.
Published: January 2023

Background

Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) are treated with preventive strategies to improve the cardiovascular risk. The incidence of cardiovascular events and mortality however remains high in PAD populations. We therefore aimed to better characterize PAD patients suffering from cardiovascular events and mortality in order to tailor preventive treatment.

Methods

Between 2018 and 2020, 246 PAD outpatients (17 newly diagnosed, 229 with known PAD) were prospectively enrolled in this observational cohort study. Patient data and blood samples were collected after inclusion, and the primary composite endpoint (myocardial infarction, elective coronary revascularization, ischemic stroke, acute limb ischemia, mortality) was evaluated after one year. Secondary outcomes included platelet reactivity, measured using the VerifyNow assay, and medication adherence, assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 (MMAS-8). Logistic regression models were used to identify associations between characteristics and the occurrence of events.

Results

The cohort comprised 207 patients with claudication and 39 with chronic limb threatening ischemia. Twenty-six (10.6%) patients suffered from an event during follow-up. Prior myocardial infarction (OR 3.3 [1.4–7.7]), prior ischemic stroke (OR 4.5 [1.8–10.9]), higher levels of creatinine (OR 5.2 [2.2–12.6]), lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (OR 4.2 [1.5–10.6]) and lower haemoglobin levels (OR 3.1 [1.3–7.1]) were associated with events. Patients with events had more often high on-treatment platelet reactivity (HTPR) on aspirin (OR 5.9 [1.4–25.1]) or clopidogrel (OR 4.3 [1–19.3]). High adherence to medication was associated with the occurrence of events (OR 4.1 [1–18]).

Conclusions

Patients suffering from cardiovascular events and mortality were characterized by prior cardiovascular events as compared to patients who did not experience any events. Antiplatelet therapy was not optimally protective despite high medication adherence, and HTPR was independently associated with the occurrence of events. More research is needed on alternative treatment strategies such as dual antiplatelet therapy or combinations with anticoagulant drugs.

Trial registration

The Medical Ethics Committee (METC) of the MUMC+ approved the study (NL63235.068.17) and the study was registered in the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR7250).
Acute toxicities and cumulative dose to the brain of repeated sessions of stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) for brain metastases: a retrospective study of 184 patients
Authors: Kuntz L. , Le Fèvre C. , Jarnet D. , Keller A. , Meyer P. , Thiery A. , Cebula H. , Noel G. , Antoni D.
Published: January 2023

Background

Stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) is a focal treatment for brain metastases (BMs); thus, 20 to 40% of patients will require salvage treatment after an initial SRT session, either because of local or distant failure. SRT is not exempt from acute toxicity, and the acute toxicities of repeated SRT are not well known. The objective of this study was to analyze the acute toxicities of repeated courses of SRT and to determine whether repeated SRT could lead to cumulative brain doses equivalent to those of whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT).

Material and methods

Between 2010 and 2020, data from 184 patients treated for 915 BMs via two to six SRT sessions for local or distant BM recurrence without previous or intercurrent WBRT were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were seen via consultations during SRT, and the delivered dose, the use of corticosteroid therapy and neurological symptoms were recorded and rated according to the CTCAEv4. The dosimetric characteristics of 79% of BMs were collected, and summation plans of 76.6% of BMs were created.

Results

36% of patients developed acute toxicity during at least one session. No grade three or four toxicity was registered, and grade one or two cephalalgy was the most frequently reported symptom. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of acute toxicity between consecutive SRT sessions. In the multivariate analysis, acute toxicity was associated with the use of corticosteroid therapy before irradiation (OR = 2.6; p = 0.01), BMV grade (high vs. low grade OR = 5.17; p = 0.02), and number of SRT sessions (3 SRT vs. 2 SRT: OR = 2.64; p = 0.01). The median volume equivalent to the WBRT dose (VWBRT) was 47.9 ml. In the multivariate analysis, the VWBRT was significantly associated with the total GTV (p < 0.001) and number of BMs (p < 0.001). Even for patients treated for more than ten cumulated BMs, the median BED to the brain was very low compared to the dose delivered during WBRT.

Conclusion

Repeated SRT for local or distant recurrent BM is well tolerated, without grade three or four toxicity, and does not cause more acute neurological toxicity with repeated SRT sessions. Moreover, even for patients treated for more than ten BMs, the VWBRT is low.
The three steps method for uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic right upper lobectomy
Authors: Liu Caiyang , Ran Ran , Luo Lei , Li Xiaoliang , Liu Gaohua , Shao Hong , Li Ji
Published: January 2023

Background

The uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic right upper lobectomy (UVATRUL), as a common procedure for thoracic surgeons, is difficult to manipulate and has some inherent challenges. To solve both of problems, we summarized a series of techniques as the three steps method and investigated its feasibility on the patients of right upper lung cancer.

Methods

Forty-eight patients with right upper lobe lung cancer who underwent the three steps method UVATRUL in our hospital from January 2020 to May 2022 were selected as the three steps method group. Forty-seven patients who underwent the traditional UVATRUL were selected as the traditional method group. The intraoperative condition and postoperative condition of the two groups were retrospectively analysed. Multiple linear regression analysis was carried out to analyze the relationship between positive results and surgical method.

Results

All patients had successfully completed their surgeries. There was no significant difference between the two groups in respect of intraoperative blood loss, rate of conversion, day one thoracic drainage volume, chest tube indwelling time, incidence of postoperative complications, number of lymph node, and postoperative hospital stay (P > 0.05). Operative time of the three steps method group was significantly shorter than the traditional method group (P < 0.001), and number of reloads used was also significantly less than the traditional method group (P = 0.014). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that operative time (β = − 0.470, P < 0.001), and number of reloads (β = − 0.254, P = 0.007) correlated with surgical method.

Conclusion

Compared with the traditional UVATRUL, the three steps method trims the surgery procedures, shortens the operative time, and reduces the use of reloads which makes it an effective procedure for UVATRUL.
Predicting nitrogen use efficiency, nitrogen loss and dry matter intake of individual dairy cows in late lactation by including mid-infrared spectra of milk samples
Authors: Shi Rui , Lou Wenqi , Ducro Bart , van der Linden Aart , Mulder Han A. , Oosting Simon J. , Li Shengli , Wang Yachun
Published: January 2023

Background

Nitrate leaching to groundwater and surface water and ammonia volatilization from dairy farms have negative impacts on the environment. Meanwhile, the increasing demand for dairy products will result in more pollution if N losses are not controlled. Therefore, a more efficient, and environmentally friendly production system is needed, in which nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) of dairy cows plays a key role. To genetically improve NUE, extensively recorded and cost-effective proxies are essential, which can be obtained by including mid-infrared (MIR) spectra of milk in prediction models for NUE. This study aimed to develop and validate the best prediction model of NUE, nitrogen loss (NL) and dry matter intake (DMI) for individual dairy cows in China.

Results

A total of 86 lactating Chinese Holstein cows were used in this study. After data editing, 704 records were obtained for calibration and validation. Six prediction models with three different machine learning algorithms and three kinds of pre-processed MIR spectra were developed for each trait. Results showed that the coefficient of determination (R2) of the best model in within-herd validation was 0.66 for NUE, 0.58 for NL and 0.63 for DMI. For external validation, reasonable prediction results were only observed for NUE, with R2 ranging from 0.58 to 0.63, while the R2 of the other two traits was below 0.50. The infrared waves from 973.54 to 988.46 cm−1 and daily milk yield were the most important variables for prediction.

Conclusion

The results showed that individual NUE can be predicted with a moderate accuracy in both within-herd and external validations. The model of NUE could be used for the datasets that are similar to the calibration dataset. The prediction models for NL and 3-day moving average of DMI (DMI_a) generated lower accuracies in within-herd validation. Results also indicated that information of MIR spectra variables increased the predictive ability of models. Additionally, pre-processed MIR spectra do not result in higher accuracy than original MIR spectra in the external validation. These models will be applied to large-scale data to further investigate the genetic architecture of N efficiency and further reduce the adverse impacts on the environment after more data is collected.
Prevalence and associated factors of binge eating disorder among Bahraini youth and young adults: a cross-sectional study in a self-selected convenience sample
Authors: Abdulla Zahraa A. Rasool Abbas , Almahmood Hend Omar , Alghasra Razan Raed , Alherz Zahra Abdulameer Sadeq , Alsharifa Husain A. Ghaffar , Qamber Seham Jamal , Alomar Nadia Aaref , Almajed Fatema Ebrahim , Almahroos Taher Reyadh , Alnajjas Zainab Ali , Alsayyad Adel Salman
Published: January 2023

Background

Binge eating disorder (BED) is defined as recurrent ingestion of an unusually large amount of food in a discrete period of time. BED has the highest prevalence of all eating disorders. Studies have shown a strong relationship between BED and both physical and psychological factors such as obesity, depression and anxiety. This research aimed to report the prevalence and associated factors of BED among Bahrainis (aged 15–30 years).

Methods

A total of 959 participants (aged 15–30 years) completed self-administered online questionnaires. BED was measured using the binge eating disorder Screener-7. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and General Anxiety Disorder-7 were used to measure depression and anxiety, respectively.

Results

Out of all participants, 21.2% had binge eating symptoms. A higher BMI, a restricted diet, depression and anxiety were associated with more frequent binge eating symptoms. Out of all associated factors, depression had the strongest association with binge eating, (rp = 0.371, p < 0.0001). However, sociodemographic variables including age and other medical conditions were not significantly associated with BED symptoms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the prevalence of BED symptoms was significantly high among the study participants. The results point out the crucial role of awareness of the interaction between obesity, depression and anxiety as potential risk factors for binge eating tendencies. Further research should examine their relationship with BED.
Visualizing water seepage dynamics in grotto relics via atom-based representative model
Authors: Wang Junxia
Published: January 2023

Water seepage in grotto relics, i.e., Yungang Grottoes, Dazu Rock Carvings, is a key issue to accurately describe the deterioration and weathering process of grotto rock mass. Considering rainfall infiltration, Finite element simulation was performed for studying the water flow through macro-channel of fractured rock in the 4th cave of Yungang Grottoes, where a group of joints with directions of S62°E and N5°W are widely developed. A 3D atom-based representative model was derived from X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and the related semi-quantitative calculation of grotto rock powders, for visualizing the associated seepage characteristics through micro-channel by means of molecular dynamics simulation, for the first time. By analyzing various properties, ranging from the configuration and energetic behaviors to the dynamic characteristics, the calculated water flux and mass flow rate were equal to 270 ns−1 and 8.10 × 10–12 g s
−1, respectively. A dynamic process of water transport from the entrance region to the exit region was examined and it is consistent with the relative concentration profiles at the corresponding stage. The tagged O atoms experienced a zigzag movement instead of linear motion as expected, roughly exhibited the same target direction. The seepage characteristics in grotto relics experienced a complex evolution process and three types can be summarized: water infiltrates through micro-channels with a low flow rate; it flows through fracture with a relatively high flow rate; it turned into a kind of analogous pipe flow in inter-connected fracture network, resulting in water seepage hazard. Current simulation studies provide helpful insights for understanding the water flow-infiltration behavior of fractured rock in grotto relics.
Higher incidence of pegfilgrastim-induced bone pain in younger patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy: a real-world experience
Authors: Tsuboi Shinya , Hayama Tatsuya , Miura Katsuhiro , Uchiike Akihiro , Tsutsumi Daisuke , Yamauchi Takashi , Hatta Yoshihiro , Ootsuka Susumu
Published: January 2023

Background

Pegfilgrastim is widely used for the prevention of febrile neutropenia (FN) in patients receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy for various types of cancer. However, pegfilgrastim-induced bone pain (PIBP) is a relevant adverse event occurring during cancer treatment. Thus, we aimed to determine the risk factors for PIBP in real-world clinical practice.

Main body

We retrospectively collected the clinical records of patients who received pegfilgrastim to support myelosuppressive chemotherapy with at least a 10% risk of FN between 2015 and 2018 at our center. Patients received pegfilgrastim 3.6 mg between days 2 and 7 after chemotherapy administration (day 1) for primary or secondary prophylaxis against FN. All adverse events were recorded according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. Patients who experienced intermittent bone pain in the back, femur, or other anatomic sites after the pegfilgrastim administration were considered to have PIBP. To evaluate the relationship between PIBP incidence and patient characteristics, we performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) of possible risk factors for PIBP. We analyzed the data of 305 patients (median age: 63 years), who underwent 1220 chemotherapy cycles with pegfilgrastim per cycle. Univariate analysis revealed that female sex (vs. male sex), younger age (< 55 years vs. ≥ 55 years), and solid cancers (vs. hematologic cancers) had significantly higher ORs (p < 0.05). However, only younger age (< 55 years) was an independent risk factor for PIBP on multivariate analysis (OR 3.62, 95% confidence interval 1.51–8.69, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Younger age (< 55 years) was significantly associated with a higher risk of PIBP among patients receiving chemotherapy with a ≥ 10% risk of FN. Therefore, oncologists should meticulously formulate management plan for PIBP in younger patients after administering pegfilgrastim.
BLOod Test Trend for cancEr Detection (BLOTTED): protocol for an observational and prediction model development study using English primary care electronic health record data
Authors: Virdee Pradeep S. , Bankhead Clare , Koshiaris Constantinos , Drakesmith Cynthia Wright , Oke Jason , Withrow Diana , Swain Subhashisa , Collins Kiana , Chammas Lara , Tamm Andres , Zhu Tingting , Morris Eva , Holt Tim , Birks Jacqueline , Perera Rafael , Hobbs F. D. Richard , Nicholson Brian D.
Published: January 2023

Background

Simple blood tests can play an important role in identifying patients for cancer investigation. The current evidence base is limited almost entirely to tests used in isolation. However, recent evidence suggests combining multiple types of blood tests and investigating trends in blood test results over time could be more useful to select patients for further cancer investigation. Such trends could increase cancer yield and reduce unnecessary referrals. We aim to explore whether trends in blood test results are more useful than symptoms or single blood test results in selecting primary care patients for cancer investigation. We aim to develop clinical prediction models that incorporate trends in blood tests to identify the risk of cancer.

Methods

Primary care electronic health record data from the English Clinical Practice Research Datalink Aurum primary care database will be accessed and linked to cancer registrations and secondary care datasets. Using a cohort study design, we will describe patterns in blood testing (aim 1) and explore associations between covariates and trends in blood tests with cancer using mixed-effects, Cox, and dynamic models (aim 2). To build the predictive models for the risk of cancer, we will use dynamic risk modelling (such as multivariate joint modelling) and machine learning, incorporating simultaneous trends in multiple blood tests, together with other covariates (aim 3). Model performance will be assessed using various performance measures, including c-statistic and calibration plots.

Discussion

These models will form decision rules to help general practitioners find patients who need a referral for further investigation of cancer. This could increase cancer yield, reduce unnecessary referrals, and give more patients the opportunity for treatment and improved outcomes.
Biomarkers as ecological indices in monitoring the status of market fish
Authors: Nagarani N. , Krishnaveni G. , Dharshini V. Dhivya , Manohari K. Gowri , Jeyapandi Monisha Archana , Mariappan Pandiselvi Vinothini , Sangeetha R.
Published: January 2023

Background

Environmental contamination has become a major concern over the past few decades, drawing the attention of numerous researchers from both developed and developing nations. The aquatic system serves as the primary sink for the disposal of garbage, which has a negative impact on the aquatic environment and biota. The reality is that heavy metals cannot be totally removed from the ecosystem because they can bioaccumulate and grow in strength as they move up the food chain. Particularly heavy metals can build up in the tissues of aquatic animals, and as a result, tissue concentrations of heavy metals may be harmful to both human and animal health. Our study aimed to elucidate the possible use of biomarkers in monitoring and assessing the heavy metals contaminants among fresh water fish.

Results

From the present study, we conclude that glutathione peroxidase can be used as the bioindicator for nickel and iron contamination. Ultimately, these studies focus on measuring levels of pollution that may induce irreversible ecological changes to aquatic ecosystems. Till now the level of toxicity was moderate, and it was progressing toward the danger. Efforts can be made to control the activities that release pollutants unnaturally into the environment from both public and government so that the clean and clear environment can be maintained.

Conclusions

The work concludes that a multiparameter analysis is needed to assess and monitor the ecological status of the aquatic environment.
Potency of Bio Magic (Metarhizium anisopliae fungus) and gamma radiation in the black cut worm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) larvae
Authors: Sayed R. M. , El Sayed T. S. , Rizk S. A.
Published: January 2023

Background

Integrated pest management is one of the ways to solve the problems of increased outbreaks of pests induced by the effects of climate change. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out to study the integrated effect of entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae and gamma radiation to control 5th instar larvae the black cut worm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), under laboratory condition. The leaf dipping technique was used to test the pathogenicity of different concentrations of the fungus against normal and F1 (resulted from irradiated male parent pupae with 100 Gy) larvae. As well as, the changes in the haemocytes were studied using LC50 of M. anisopliae of both treatment (unirradiated and F1 larvae).

Results

The results showed that larval mortality percentage was both M. anisopliae virulent and time dependent. Furthermore, F1 larvae were more susceptible to M. anisopliae where 100% mortality was recorded after 3 days of M. anisopliae treatment at 8 × 105 spores/ml concentration. While mortality of normal (unirradiated) larvae reached 40% at the same time and concentration. The haematological examination of larvae revealed significant reduces in total haemocyte counts, differential percentage and increase in morphological malformation of the haemocytes which was pronounced by F1 + M. anisopliae LC50.

Conclusions

According to the obtained results, the gamma irradiation increased the pathogenicity of the fungus against the 5th instar A. ipsilon larvae. So, the combination between the two control tools may provide a satisfactory integrated control program after further field trials.
Development of adolescent mental health services in Sri Lanka
Authors: Rajapakshe Onali Bimalka Wickramaseckara , Mohan Mohapradeep , Singh Swaran Preet
Published: January 2023

Sri Lanka has faced two major catastrophes in recent history: the civil war (1983–2009) and the tsunami (2004). Furthermore, there is a continuously changing socioeconomic situation which is becoming ever more challenging. Nearly a quarter of the Sri Lankan population is a youth or adolescent, and this age group is particularly vulnerable to adversity. Over the past decade Sri Lanka has acknowledged the need to support these young people and embarked on developing adolescent mental health services, but they require further expansion. This article provides a critical review of the state of current adolescent mental health services in our country and makes suggestions for improvement.
Tailless and hypoxia inducible factor-2α cooperate to sustain proangiogenic states of retinal astrocytes in neonatal mice
Authors: Duan Li-Juan , Jiang Yida , Shi Yanhong , Fong Guo-Hua
Published: January 2023

Tailless (TLX, an orphan nuclear receptor) and hypoxia inducible factor-2α (HIF2α) are both essential for retinal astrocyte and vascular development. Tlx−/− mutation and astrocyte specific Hif2α disruption in Hif2αf/f/GFAPCre mice are known to cause defective astrocyte development and block vascular development in neonatal retinas. Here we report that TLX and HIF2α support retinal angiogenesis by cooperatively maintaining retinal astrocytes in their proangiogenic states. While Tlx+/− and Hif2αf/+/GFAPCre mice are phenotypically normal, Tlx+/−/Hif2αf/+/GFAPCre mice display precocious retinal astrocyte differentiation towards non-angiogenic states, along with significantly reduced retinal angiogenesis. In wild-type mice, TLX and HIF2α coexist in the same protein complex, suggesting a cooperative function under physiological conditions. Furthermore, astrocyte specific disruption of Phd2 (prolyl hydroxylase domain protein 2), a manipulation previously shown to cause HIF2α accumulation, did not rescue retinal angiogenesis in Tlx−/− background, which suggests functional dependence of HIF2α on TLX. Finally, the expression of fibronectin and VEGF-A is significantly reduced in retinal astrocytes of neonatal Tlx+/−/Hif2αf/+/GFAPCre mice. Overall, these data indicate that TLX and HIF2α cooperatively support retinal angiogenesis by maintaining angiogenic potential of retinal astrocytes.
Dose response relationship between D-dimer level and mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Aditianingsih Dita , Soenarto Ratna Farida , Puiantana Artheta Mutiara , Pranata Raymond , Lim Michael Anthonius , Raharja Putu Angga Risky , Birowo Ponco , Meyer Markus
Published: January 2023

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic. Coagulopathy is one of the most common complications characterized by increased D-dimer level. We aimed to investigate the dose-response relationship between elevated D-dimer level and mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Methods: This was a retrospective observational study in 259 critically ill COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care unit admission between March and December 2020. We compared the mortality rate between patients with and without elevated D-dimer. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, Fagan’s nomogram, and dose-response relationship were performed to determine the association between D-dimer level and mortality.

Results: Overall mortality rate was 40.9% (106 patients). Median D-dimer level was higher in non-survivor group (10,170 ng/mL vs 4,050 ng/mL, p=0.028). The association remained significant after multivariate logistic regression analysis (p=0.046). The optimal cut-off for D-dimer level to predict mortality from ROC curve analysis was 9,020 ng/mL (OR (odds ratio) 3.73 [95% CI (confidence interval) 1.91 – 7.28], p<0.001). D-dimer level >9,020 ng/mL confers 67% posterior probability of mortality and D-dimer level <9,020 ng/mL had 35% probability of mortality.

Conclusions: There was a non-linear dose-response relationship between D-dimer level and mortality with Pnonlinearity of 0.004. D-dimer level was associated with mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients in the non-linear dose-response relationship.
Muhammad Shahrur's millenial interpretation of women’s issues
Authors: Herlambang Saifuddin
Published: January 2023

Background: This study examines Muhammad Shahrur's theory of limits and women’s issues. This theory adjusts the muhkamat verses to remain relevant to sociocultural conditions while remining within the jurisdiction of Allah SWT. Shahrur's approach conveyed women as different from traditional ulema, and controversial. Therefore, it is necessary to describe Shahrur's theory and interpretation on women issues. 

Methods: This was an exploratory bibliographic study using descriptive-hermeneutic analysis. Two of Shahrur's books were selected and five chapters from Al-Kitāb wa Al-Qur’ān, Qirā’ah Mu’āshirah and five chapters from Nahw Ushūl al-Jadīdah Li al-Fiqh al-Islāmy; Fiqh al-Mar'ah . 

Results: Shahrur’s interpretations on women issues are:  a) relationships between teenagers of the opposite sex without marriage or living together is "halal" if it follows their will, without a contract, being accompanied by syecih or permission, b) The maximum limit of hijab is to cover the entire body except the face and palms. In contrast, the minimum limit covers the juyūb, including cleavage under the armpits, body parts, genitals, and buttocks. Apart from these, it does not include intimate parts and adapts to the community. c) women's intimate parts are shown only to the seven groups; brothers, fathers, children of a sibling, parents of one's wives and their children, d) Polygamy has both an upper limit and lower limit. Shahrur allows polygamy under two conditions: widows with children whose husbands left them to protect them, polygamy has two limitations, limit for quantity and limit for quality, e) the law of adultery has a lower and upper limit.  

Conclusion: According to Shahrur, women's issues are divided into four limits, sometimes they are at the upper limit and sometimes at the lower limit. Shahrur's linguistic approach finally led him to draw a conclusion that the product of Islamic law is highly dependent on the sociocultural context.
Qualitative study on violence against women analyzed under the thought of Edmund Husserl in the context of the Society of Apurimac
Authors: Arbieto Mamani Oscar , POZO ENCISO BARO , Mendoza Vargas Miguel Gerardo , Alvarez Chavez Willie , Pozo Enciso Rosmery Sabina
Published: January 2023

The purpose of the investigation was to analyze the experiences and perspectives on violence against women in the Apurímac region, Peru. The analysis was carried out through interviews with women in each of the provinces of Apurimac. The aim was to learn about the status of women's rights and the effectiveness of provisions and regulations for their protection. The article will also explore the vast cultural and social diversity present in the interviews themselves, in contrast to the current normative system. As a general conclusion, it became evident that women in Apurimac-Peru suffered different types of abuse and mistreatment just because they were women and that they did not feel any kind of support from the authorities, showing a lack of interest from the state in improving the current situation of women in Peruvian society.
Comparative evaluation of dermatoglyphic patterns between skeletal class I and skeletal class III malocclusion
Authors: Achalli Sonika , Nayak U S Krishna , P S Murali , Shashidhar Keerthan , Kamath Vinayak
Published: January 2023

Background: Dermatoglyphics is the study of various dermal configurations on the fingers, palms, and soles. These appear during the 12th week of intrauterine life and develop completely by the 24th week. It is said that they remain constant thereafter. The aim of the present study was to compare and assess the association of dermatoglyphic patterns between skeletal class I and skeletal class III malocclusion.

Methods: Finger and palm prints were collected using the ink and roller method from 604 subjects who were divided into skeletal class I, class III with maxillary retrognathism and class III with mandibular prognathism based on lateral cephalogram assessment.

Results: Loop pattern was more predominant in skeletal class I malocclusion subjects and whorl pattern was more frequent in the other two groups. Total finger ridge count and atd angle also showed significant difference between the study groups.

Conclusions: The present study attempted in assessing the association between dermatoglyphic patterns and skeletal malocclusion. Analysing dermal configurations may aid in indicating the type of developing malocclusion and thus help in interceptive and preventive orthodontics.