bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Association Between the Healthcare Design Elements and Physician Well-Being: A Scoping Review
Authors: Rossi Amerigo , Heyman Nina Brojan , Rossi Mónica Ortiz , Wolf Sarah , White Takeesha
Published: February 2023

Purpose:

To evaluate the association between elements of the built environment and physician well-being using a scoping review.

Background:

Physicians currently report low work satisfaction, high burnout and depression. The built environment has been shown to affect well-being in the general population, but its relationship to physician well-being is not well understood. Gaining a better understanding of this relationship will allow for better evidence-based design for physician well-being.

Methods:

A scoping review of the literature was conducted of Scopus and PubMed databases using key words for (1) environmental variables such as “environmental design”; (2) physician terms, such as “doctor”; and (3) outcome measures of well-being, such as “burnout.” Studies were included if they had at least one measure of the built environment and one measure of physician well-being. Of 1,723 abstracts screened, 146 full-text articles were reviewed, leaving 16 articles to be included for data extraction.

Results:

Included studies were from all around the world, except for, notably, the United States. Robust interpretation of the data was challenging because of the lack of standardization in the assessment of environmental factors and physician well-being. Excessive noise was the variable most linked to well-being. Suitable surroundings, including lighting, furniture, and art, were also linked with satisfaction, but it was unclear whether there was an association with well-being.

Conclusion:

Understanding how environmental factors affect physician well-being is paramount but considerably understudied. Standardization of research approach should be developed in order to produce more robust research to create evidence-based designs for physician well-being.
From Facebook to YouTube: The Potential Exposure to COVID-19 Anti-Vaccine Videos on Social Media
Authors: Gruzd Anatoliy , Abul-Fottouh Deena , Song Melodie YunJu , Saiphoo Alyssa
Published: February 2023

This article examines the role of Facebook and YouTube in potentially exposing people to COVID-19 vaccine–related misinformation. Specifically, to study the potential level of exposure, the article models a uni-directional information-sharing pathway beginning when a Facebook user encounters a vaccine-related post with a YouTube video, follows this video to YouTube, and then sees a list of related videos automatically recommended by YouTube. The results demonstrate that despite the efforts by Facebook and YouTube, COVID-19 vaccine–related misinformation in the form of anti-vaccine videos propagates on both platforms. Because of these apparent gaps in platform-led initiatives to combat misinformation, public health agencies must be proactive in creating vaccine promotion campaigns that are highly visible on social media to overtake anti-vaccine videos’ prominence in the network. By examining related videos that a user potentially encounters, the article also contributes practical insights to identify influential YouTube channels for public health agencies to collaborate with on their public service announcements about the importance of vaccination programs and vaccine safety.
Fall Risk and Coping of Older Adults After Hospitalization: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Strutz Nicole , Brodowski Hanna , Mümken Sandra Angelika , Müller-Werdan Ursula , Kiselev Joern
Published: February 2023

Coping is defined as cognitive and behavioral effort to manage specific external and/or internal demands, such as managing one’s own fall risk. Little is known about the relationship between the risk of falling in older adults and their coping strategies. The purpose of this study is to examine the fall risk after hospitalization, the adequacy of self-perceived fall risk and coping strategies of older adults. In this mixed-methods study, the adequacy of perceived fall risk was determined using the de Morton Mobility Index and the ABC Scale in 98 geriatric patients recruited in a geriatric hospital. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a subsample of 16 participants 6 months after discharge to identify coping strategies. The six interviewees who adequately assessed their fall risk reported active/positive coping. In contrast, participants who assessed their fall risk inadequately (10 out of 16) reported passive/negative coping. Older adults who inadequately assessed their fall risk need special accompaniment in geriatric wards to develop active/positive coping strategies.
Consensus proposal for revised International Working Group response criteria for higher risk myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Zeidan Amer M. , Platzbecker Uwe , Bewersdorf Jan Philipp , Stahl Maximilian , Adès Lionel , Borate Uma , Bowen David T , Buckstein Rena J. , Brunner Andrew M. , Carraway Hetty E , Daver Naval G. , Díez-Campelo Maria , de Witte Theo M , DeZern Amy E. , Efficace Fabio , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Garcia Jacqueline S. , Germing Ulrich , Giagounidis Aristoteles , Griffiths Elizabeth A , Hasserjian Robert P , Hellström-Lindberg Eva , Iastrebner Marcelo C , Komrokji Rami S. , Kulasekararaj Austin G , Malcovati Luca , Miyazaki Yasushi , Odenike Olatoyosi , Santini Valeria , Sanz Guillermo F. , Scheinberg Phillip , Stauder Reinhard , Van de Loosdrecht Arjan A , Wei Andrew H , Sekeres Mikkael A. , Fenaux Pierre
Published: February 2023

Myelodysplastic syndromes/neoplasms (MDS) are associated with variable clinical presentations and outcomes. The initial response criteria developed by the International Working Group (IWG) in 2000 have been used in clinical practice, clinical trials, regulatory reviews, and drug labels. While the IWG criteria were revised in 2006 and 2018 (the latter focusing on lower-risk disease), limitations persist in their application to higher-risk MDS and in their ability to fully capture clinical benefits of novel investigational drugs or to serve as valid surrogates for longer-term clinical endpoints (e.g., overall survival). Further, issues related to ambiguity and practicality of some criteria lead to variability in interpretation and inter-observer inconsistency in reporting results from the same sets of data. Thus, we convened an international panel of 36 MDS experts and used an established modified Delphi process to develop consensus recommendations for updated response criteria that would be more reflective of patient-centered and clinically relevant outcomes in higher-risk MDS. Among others, the IWG 2023 criteria include changes in the hemoglobin threshold for complete remission (CR), the introduction of CR with limited count recovery (CRL) and CR with partial hematologic recovery (CRh) as provisional response criteria, elimination of marrow CR, and specific recommendations for standardization of time-to-event endpoints and the derivation and reporting of responses. The updated criteria should lead to better correlation between patient-centered outcomes and clinical trial results in an era of multiple emerging new agents with novel mechanisms of action.
The influence of microbial dysbiosis on immunochemotherapy-related efficacy and safety in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Yoon Sang Eun , Kang Woorim , Choi Seunghyun , Park Yoon , Chalita Mauricio , Kim Hyun , Lee Je Hee , Hyun Dong-Wook , Ryu Kyung Ju , Sung Hojun , Lee Jae-Yun , Bae Jin-Woo , Kim Won Seog , Kim Seok-Jin
Published: February 2023

The gut microbiome influences cancer development and the efficacy and safety of chemotherapy, but little is known about its effects on lymphoma. We obtained stool samples from treatment-naïve, newly diagnosed patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (n = 189). We first performed 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing (n = 158) and then conducted whole-genome shotgun sequencing (n = 106) with additional samples. We compared the microbiome data from these patients with those of healthy controls and assessed whether microbiome characteristics were associated with treatment outcomes. The alpha diversity was significantly lower in patients with DLBCL than in healthy controls (P < 0.001), and the microbial composition differed significantly between the groups (P < 0.001). The abundance of Enterobacteriaceae family belonging to the Proteobacteria phylum was markedly higher in patients than in healthy controls. Functional analysis of the microbiome revealed an association with opportunistic pathogenesis through type 1 pili, biofilm formation, and antibiotics resistance. Enterobacteriaceae members were significantly enriched in patients who experienced febrile neutropenia and in those who experienced relapse or progression (P < 0.001). Interestingly, greater abundance of Enterobacteriaceae correlated with shorter progression-free survival (P = 0.007). The cytokine profiles of patients whose microbiome was enriched with Enterobacteriaceae were significantly associated with interleukin 6 (P = 0.035) and interferon-g (P = 0.045) levels. In summary, patients with DLBCL exhibited gut microbial dysbiosis. The abundance of Enterobacteriaceae correlated with treatment outcomes and febrile neutropenia. Further study is required to elucidate the origin and role of gut dysbiosis in DLBCL.
Consideration of a new approach to clarify the mechanism formation of AgNPs, AgNCl and AgNPs@AgNCl synthesized by biological method
Authors: Viorica Railean , Pawel Pomastowski , Płociński Tomasz , Gloc Michał , Dobrucka Renata , Kurzydłowski Krzysztof Jan , Boguslaw Buszewski
Published: February 2023

The biological methods are considered as environmental-eco-friendly methods for the silver nanocomposites mediation and are widely used in this context. However, the biological methods go along with the relevant limitations, for instance simultaneous synthesis of silver chlorides (AgNCl) type during the AgNPs mediation process. Therefore, the present research is coming to summarize several aspects in this context. Firstly, to present the possible promotion of the sustainable development using bioactive source (e.g. milk) as a source of two different available and new lactobacillus strains (Lactobacillus curvatus and Lactobacillus fermentum). Secondly, to show the ability of the respective isolates to be involved in mediation of various biosilver nanocomposites ((Bio)NCs) synthesis. Moreover, at this stage, for the first time, two (Bio)NCs mediation methods, called “direct method” and “modified method”, have been developed, thus three types (AgNPs, AgNCl and AgNP@AgNCl) of nanocomposites mediated by two different Lactobacillus isolates take place. The interdisciplinary approach included using several spectroscopic, microscopic, spectrometric and thermogravimetric methods demonstrated that all six synthesized nanoparticles (three AgNPs, AgNCl and AgNP@AgNCl types from each source) consist of complex structure including both metallic silver core as well as organic surface deposits. The spectrometric technique allowed to identification of the organics branching surface, naturally secreted by the used Lactobacillus isolates during the inoculation step, suggesting the presence of amino-acids sequences which are direct connected with the reduction of silver ion to metal silver, and subsequently with the formation of coated (Bio)NCs and nucleation process. Moreover, based on the obtained results, the mediation mechanism of each (Bio)NCs has been proposed, suggesting that the formation of AgNPs, AgNCl and AgNP@AgNCl types occurs in different manners with faster synthesis firstly of AgNCl, then of the AgNPs type. No differences between the (Bio)NCs synthesized by two different Lactobacillus isolates have been noticed indicating no discrepancies between metabolites secreted by the respective sources.

Graphical abstract
Green manure increases peanut production by shaping the rhizosphere bacterial community and regulating soil metabolites under continuous peanut production systems
Authors: Xu Yang , Ding Hong , Zhang Guanchu , Li Zelun , Guo Qing , Feng Hao , Qin Feifei , Dai Liangxiang , Zhang Zhimeng
Published: February 2023

Background

Green manure (GM) is a crop commonly grown during fallow periods, which has been applied in agriculture as a strategy to regulate nutrient cycling, improve organic matter, and enhance soil microbial biodiversity, but to date, few studies have examined the effects of GM treatments on rhizosphere soil bacterial community and soil metabolites from continuous cropping peanut field. Results: In this study, we found that the abundances of several functionally significant bacterial groups containing Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and genus Sphingomonas, which are associated with nitrogen cycling, were dramatically increased in GM-applied soils. Consistent with the bacterial community results, metabolomics analysis revealed a strong perturbation of nitrogen- or carbon-related metabolisms in GM-applied soils. The substantially up-regulated beneficial metabolites including sucrose, adenine, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), malic acid, and betaines in GM-applied soils may contribute to overcome continuous cropping obstacle. In contrast to peanut continuous cropping, planting winter wheat and oilseed rape in winter fallow period under continuous spring peanut production systems evidently improved the soil quality, concomitantly with raised peanut pod yield by 32.93% and 25.20%, in the 2020 season, respectively. Conclusions: GMs application is an effective strategy to overcome continuous cropping obstacle under continuous peanut production systems by improving nutrient cycling, soil metabolites, and rhizobacterial properties.
A case report of an ischaemic stroke, caused by a primary cardiac intimal sarcoma
Authors: Lloyd Joshua , Gilliat Navinee , Porter Graeme , Pirone Francesco
Published: February 2023

Background

Intimal sarcomas are an extremely rare type of primary cardiac malignancy. They most commonly present with symptoms of cardiac dysfunction. We present a case of intimal sarcoma identified without any cardiac signs or symptoms. Cardiac sarcomas historically carry a very poor prognosis.

Presentation

A 57-year-old man presented with a sudden onset of left limb weakness and disorientation. MRI brain identified an acute ischaemic stroke in the right anterior temporal lobe. Four months later, he presented again with transient left arm weakness. The patient had a normal cardiovascular examination and ECG. All other initial investigations for cryptogenic stroke were non-contributory. The patient did not initially get an echocardiogram. When this investigation was performed, after his second presentation, a large pedunculated mass was present in his left atrium. This was resected and identified histologically as a primary intimal sarcoma of his left atrium. The patient was treated with post-operative radiotherapy but declined chemotherapy. He recovered well post-operatively but subsequently passed away 14 months after diagnosis.

Conclusions

It is possible for primary cardiac malignancies to present with only symptoms of systemic emboli. For this reason, echocardiography is a crucial investigation in cases of cryptogenic stroke. Some stroke guidelines do not definitively support routine echocardiography. Primary intimal cardiac sarcoma is a very rare condition with a poor prognosis. The literature is limited to case reports and optimal management is with surgical resection where possible. The role of post operative radiotherapy and chemotherapy is uncertain.
Changes in the meibomian glands in postmenopausal women with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction: a prospective study
Authors: Jin Haili , Zhang Hong
Published: February 2023

Background

Primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) is frequently encountered in perimenopausal women, causing tear flow stagnation and resulting in a variety of ocular discomfort symptoms. However, little is known about the alterations in the meibomian gland in postmenopausal women with PANDO. Hence, this study investigated the changes in the meibomian gland and ocular surface in postmenopausal women with PANDO.

Methods

This prospective study included 60 eyes of 60 postmenopausal women with PANDO (PANDO group) and 30 eyes of 30 postmenopausal women without PANDO (control group). The PANDO group was further subdivided into incomplete and complete PANDO groups, based on the degree of nasolacrimal duct obstruction. The patients’ symptoms were evaluated using the ocular surface disease index questionnaire. The meibomian gland and ocular surface were assessed using the Keratograph 5 M. Other ophthalmologic examinations included the tear break-up time, corneal fluorescein staining, meibomian gland expression, and Schirmer I test. The correlations between the degree of nasolacrimal duct obstruction and other metrics were analyzed.

Results

The loss ratio of the upper eyelid was greater in the incomplete PANDO group than in the control group (p = 0.023). Meibomian gland distortion of the upper eyelid was more severe in the control group than in the complete PANDO group (p = 0.022). The non-invasive tear meniscus height was greater, whereas the intensity of corneal fluorescein staining was lower in the PANDO group than in the control group (all p < 0.05). The degree of nasolacrimal duct obstruction was positively associated with the non-invasive tear meniscus height and ocular surface disease index scores (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Corneal fluorescein staining and meibomian gland distortion of the upper eyelid were negatively correlated with the degree of nasolacrimal duct obstruction (p = 0.01 and p = 0.007, respectively).

Conclusion

Postmenopausal women with PANDO exhibit significant morphological changes in the meibomian gland. More attention should be paid to meibomian gland loss in postmenopausal women with incomplete PANDO, as it is crucial for identifying meibomian gland impairments in patients with PANDO.
Influence of the deviated center of rotation on the range of motion after cervical disc arthroplasty –an in vivo study with a minimum of 10-year follow-up
Authors: Yan Kai , Shi Zhan , He Da , Liu Bo , Xiao Bin , Wang Qilong , Tian Wei
Published: February 2023

Background

Short-term researches have studied the change of the center of rotation (COR) after the Bryan Cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA). But there is a lack of long-term studies focusing on the location of COR and its influence after surgery.

Methods

Clinical and radiographic materials of patients who received CDA were retrospectively reviewed. Written informed consents were obtained. Clinical outcome was accessed by Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Odom’s scale. Radiographic evaluation underwent before surgery, at early (3 months) follow-up and final (minimal 10 years) follow-up. The ROM of the global cervical spine and index level, the functional spine unit (FSU) angle and C2-C7 angle were measured. COR was identified and its coordinates were calculated. The absolute change of COR-x and COR-y were compared in subgroup analysis.

Results

Sixty patients were included, with an average age of 55.9 ± 8.1 years old. The mean duration of follow up was 135.1 ± 16.1 (120–155) months. JOA, NDI and Odom’s scale showed significant improvements at 10 years after surgery. The COR of index level was located in the posterior superior half of the caudal vertebral body. Following the implant of Bryan Disc, the COR shifted forward and downward. During the 10-year follow-up, the location of COR remained stable. ROM at the index level decreased from 10.6 ± 4.0° preoperatively to 9.3 ± 4.0° at the early follow-up (p = 0.03). The ROM at the index level remained unchanged from early follow-up to the final follow-up (9.3 ± 4.0° vs 9.5 ± 5.2°, p = 0.80). In subgroup analysis, larger changes of both COR-x and COR-y were related with decreased ROM.

Conclusions

Our study illustrated that Bryan CDA could achieved favorable clinical and radiographic outcome over a minimal 10-year follow-up. The reduction of the flexion-extension ROM may be correlated with a more deviated postoperative COR. More attention should be paid to preoperative design and intraoperative technique to obtain a more native COR.
Use of artificial neural networks in the prognosis of musculoskeletal diseases—a scoping review
Authors: Qiu Fanji , Li Jinfeng , Zhang Rongrong , Legerlotz Kirsten
Published: February 2023

To determine the current evidence on artificial neural network (ANN) in prognostic studies of musculoskeletal diseases (MSD) and to assess the accuracy of ANN in predicting the prognosis of patients with MSD. The scoping review was reported under the Preferred Items for Systematic Reviews and the Meta-Analyses extension for Scope Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Cochrane Library, Embase, Pubmed, and Web of science core collection were searched from inception to January 2023. Studies were eligible if they used ANN to make predictions about MSD prognosis. Variables, model prediction accuracy, and disease type used in the ANN model were extracted and charted, then presented as a table along with narrative synthesis. Eighteen Studies were included in this scoping review, with 16 different types of musculoskeletal diseases. The accuracy of the ANN model predictions ranged from 0.542 to 0.947. ANN models were more accurate compared to traditional logistic regression models. This scoping review suggests that ANN can predict the prognosis of musculoskeletal diseases, which has the potential to be applied to different types of MSD.
Biomechanical evaluation of different sizes of 3D printed cage in lumbar interbody fusion-a finite element analysis
Authors: Wu Jincheng , Feng Qing , Yang Dongmei , Xu Hanpeng , Wen Wangqiang , Xu Haoxiang , Miao Jun
Published: February 2023

Objective

To study the biomechanical characteristics of various tissue structures of different sizes of 3D printed Cage in lumbar interbody fusion.

Methods

A finite element model of normal spine was reconstructed and verified. Pedicle screws and Cage of different sizes were implanted in the L4/5 segment to simulate lumbar interbody fusion. The range of motion of the fixed and cephalic adjacent segment, the stress of the screw-rod system, the stress at the interface between cage and L5 endplate, and intervertebral disc pressure of the adjacent segment were calculated and analyzed.

Results

The range of motion and intervertebral disc pressure of the adjacent segment of each postoperative model were larger than those of the intact model, but there was not much difference between them. The stress of cage-endplate interface was also larger than that of the intact model. However, the difference is that the stress of the endplate and the screw-rod system has a tendency to decrease with the increase of the axial area of cage.

Conclusions

Cage with larger axial area in lumbar interbody fusion can reduce the stress of internal fixation system and endplate, but will not increase the range of motion and intervertebral disc pressure of adjacent segment. It has a certain effect in preventing the cage subsidence, internal fixation system failure and screw rod fracture.
Direct comparison two fixed-ratio combination glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist and basal insulin on glycemic and non glycemic parameters in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Risovic Ivona , Dumanovic Mirjana Sumarac , Bojic Mirjana , Djekic Danijel
Published: February 2023

Background

Two types of fixed-ratio combinations of basal insulin and a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) have been approved for use in type 2 diabetes. One is insulin degludec/liraglutide (iDergLira), and the other is insulin glargine/lixisenatide (iGlarLixi). Direct comparisons between these two combination is not available.

Methods

The retrospective study included 186 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) with inadequate glycemic control on metformin and basal insulin (degludec, glargine 100, glargine 300) who were switched to fixed-ratio combination GLP-1 RA and basal insulin. Patients were divided into two groups based on the basal insulin before study: group I (n = 86) treated with degludec were switched to iDegLira and patients group II (n = 99), treated with glargine were switched to iGlarLixi. The aim of this study was to directly compare the effects between two fixed – ratio combination on glycemic parameters and non glycemic parameters. Follow up was 6 months.

Results

Mean HbA1c decreased similarly (− 1.2% vs.-1.1%). Higher percentage patients in iDegLira group had reached the HbA1c < 7% after 6 months (22% vs. 18.2%, p < 0.05). The mean change in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was comparable for the two groups, while mean decrease postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) level were lower in iGlarLixi group (2 vs 1.8 mmol/l, p > 0.05). Change in body weight was significant in iDegLira group (1.8 kg vs. 0.7 kg, p < 0.001). At the end of the study patients showed decrease in total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) for 0.2 mmol/L in iDegLira, 0.1 mmol/l in iGlarLixi, triglycerides decreased 0.3 mmol/l in both groups, high-density lipoprotein(HDL) increased 0.1 mm/l in iGlarLixi.

Conclusion

Our results showed that more patients with iDegLira had HbA1c less than 7% and these combination had better effect on weight loss. There was no difference observed in FPG and PPG, lipid profile and rate of hypoglycemia.
Evaluation of a digital game for teaching behavioral aspects of clinical communication in dentistry
Authors: Lin Chia-Shu , Yang Cheng-Chieh
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Traditionally, dental students learn the skills for dentist-patient interaction and communication via on-site contact with patients, when they start clinical training. However, preclinical students (who have not started clinical practice) have fewer chances to realize the context of dentist-patient interaction. It has remained unclear if a gamification approach via digital media, i.e., a computer role-playing game, can help to learn clinical communication skills. The intervention-based study investigates the effectiveness of the clinical dentist-patient communication (CDPC) game on students’ motivation, beliefs, and self-efficacy to learn behavioral issues of clinical communication.

Methods

Fifty-two dental students (Preclinical group) and 18 dental interns and dentists (Clinical group) played the CDPC game, which consists of 16 scenes of clinical context about dentist-patient communication (less than 40 min for playing), via web browsers. Pre-test and post-test questionnaires were used to assess their motivation, beliefs, and self-efficacy to learn behavioral issues of clinical communication. The effectiveness was examined by comparing pre-test and post-test scores within-subject and between-group difference was compared between Preclinical and Clinical groups, via non-parametric statistical tests.

Results

(A) In the Preclinical group, participants showed a significant increase in motivation and self-efficacy in learning after playing the CDPC game (p < 0.05, adjusted of multiple comparison). (B) In contrast, the Clinical group did not show a significant difference before vs. after playing the game. (C) After playing the game, the Preclinical group showed a significant association between motivation and beliefs (p = 0.024) and between motivation and self-efficacy (p = 0.001); the Clinical group showed a significant association between motivation and beliefs (p = 0.033).

Conclusions

The current evidence suggests that gamification of learning helps preclinical students to understand the context of clinical dentist-patient interaction and increase their motivation and self-efficacy to learn behavioral issues of clinical communication.
The chromosome-level genome and key genes associated with mud-dwelling behavior and adaptations of hypoxia and noxious environments in loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus)
Authors: Sun Bing , Huang Yuwei , Castro L. Filipe C. , Yang Su , Huang Songqian , Jin Wu , Zhou He , Ijiri Shigeho , Luo Yi , Gao Jian , Cao Xiaojuan
Published: February 2023

Background

The loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus), the most widely distributed species of the family Cobitidae, displays a mud-dwelling behavior and intestinal air-breathing, inhabiting the muddy bottom of extensive freshwater habitats. However, lack of high-quality reference genome seriously limits the interpretation of the genetic basis of specialized adaptations of the loach to the adverse environments including but not limited to the extreme water temperature, hypoxic and noxious mud environment.

Results

This study generated a 1.10-Gb high-quality, chromosome-anchored genome assembly, with a contig N50 of 3.83 Mb. Multiple comparative genomic analyses found that proto-oncogene c-Fos (fos), a regulator of bone development, is positively selected in loach. Knockout of fos (ID: Mis0086400.1) led to severe osteopetrosis and movement difficulties, combined with the comparison results of bone mineral density, supporting the hypothesis that fos is associated with loach mud-dwelling behavior. Based on genomic and transcriptomic analysis, we identified two key elements involved in the intestinal air-breathing of loach: a novel gene (ID: mis0158000.1) and heat shock protein beta-1 (hspb1). The flavin-containing monooxygenase 5 (fmo5) genes, central to xenobiotic metabolism, undergone expansion in loach and were identified as differentially expressed genes in a drug stress trial. A fmo5−/− (ID: Mis0185930.1) loach displayed liver and intestine injury, indicating the importance of this gene to the adaptation of the loach to the noxious mud.

Conclusions

Our work provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of biological adaptation to adverse environments.
Evolution of pathogenicity-associated genes in Rhizoctonia solani AG1-IA by genome duplication and transposon-mediated gene function alterations
Authors: Francis Aleena , Ghosh Srayan , Tyagi Kriti , Prakasam V. , Rani Mamta , Singh Nagendra Pratap , Pradhan Amrita , Sundaram R. M. , Priyanka C. , Laha G. S. , Kannan C. , Prasad M. S. , Chattopadhyay Debasis , Jha Gopaljee
Published: February 2023

Background

Rhizoctonia solani is a polyphagous fungal pathogen that causes diseases in crops. The fungal strains are classified into anastomosis groups (AGs); however, genomic complexity, diversification into the AGs and the evolution of pathogenicity-associated genes remain poorly understood.

Results

We report a recent whole-genome duplication and sequential segmental duplications in AG1-IA strains of R. solani. Transposable element (TE) clusters have caused loss of synteny in the duplicated blocks and introduced differential structural alterations in the functional domains of several pathogenicity-associated paralogous gene pairs. We demonstrate that the TE-mediated structural variations in a glycosyl hydrolase domain and a GMC oxidoreductase domain in two paralogous pairs affect the pathogenicity of R. solani. Furthermore, to investigate the association of TEs with the natural selection and evolution of pathogenicity, we sequenced the genomes of forty-two rice field isolates of R. solani AG1-IA. The genomic regions with high population mutation rates and with the lowest nucleotide diversity are enriched with TEs. Genetic diversity analysis predicted the genes that are most likely under diversifying and purifying selections. We present evidence that a smaller variant of a glucosamine phosphate N-acetyltransferase (GNAT) protein, predicted to be under purifying selection, and an LPMP_AA9 domain-containing protein, predicted to be under diversifying selection, are important for the successful pathogenesis of R. solani in rice as well as tomato.

Conclusions

Our study has unravelled whole-genome duplication, TE-mediated neofunctionalization of genes and evolution of pathogenicity traits in R. solani AG1-IA. The pathogenicity-associated genes identified during the study can serve as novel targets for disease control.
Healthcare workers knowledge of cholera multi-stranded interventions and its determining factors in North-East Nigeria: planning and policy implications
Authors: Elimian Kelly , King Carina , Dewa Ozius , Pembi Emmanuel , Gandi Benjamin , Yennan Sebastian , Myles Puja , Pritchard Catherine , Forsberg Birger Carl , Alfvén Tobias
Published: February 2023

Background

Healthcare workers’ (HCWs) knowledge of multi-stranded cholera interventions (including case management, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), surveillance/laboratory methods, coordination, and vaccination) is crucial to the implementation of these interventions in healthcare facilities, especially in conflict-affected settings where cholera burden is particularly high. We aimed to assess Nigerian HCWs’ knowledge of cholera interventions and identify the associated factors.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire with HCWs from 120 healthcare facilities in Adamawa and Bauchi States, North-East Nigeria. A knowledge score was created by assigning a point for each correct response. HCWs’ knowledge of cholera interventions, calculated as a score, was recoded for ease of interpretation as follows: 0–50 (low); 51–70 (moderate); ≥ 71 (high). Additionally, we defined the inadequacy of HCWs’ knowledge of cholera interventions based on a policy-relevant threshold of equal or lesser than 75 scores for an intervention. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with the adequacy of knowledge score.

Results

Overall, 490 HCWs participated in the study (254 in Adamawa and 236 in Bauchi), with a mean age of 35.5 years. HCWs’ knowledge score was high for surveillance/laboratory methods, moderate for case management, WASH, and vaccination, and low for coordination. HCWs’ knowledge of coordination improved with higher cadre, working in urban- or peri-urban-based healthcare facilities, and secondary education; cholera case management and vaccination knowledge improved with post-secondary education, working in Bauchi State and urban areas, previous training in cholera case management and response to a cholera outbreak—working in peri-urban areas had a negative effect. HCWs’ knowledge of surveillance/laboratory methods improved with a higher cadre, 1-year duration in current position, secondary or post-secondary education, previous training in cholera case management and response to a cholera outbreak. However, HCWs’ current position had both positive and negative impacts on their WASH knowledge.

Conclusions

HCWs in both study locations recorded a considerable knowledge of multi-stranded cholera interventions. While HCWs’ demographic characteristics appeared irrelevant in determining their knowledge of cholera interventions, geographic location and experiences from the current position, training and involvement in cholera outbreak response played a significant role.
Study protocol for a factorial-randomized controlled trial evaluating the implementation, costs, effectiveness, and sustainment of digital therapeutics for substance use disorder in primary care (DIGITS Trial)
Authors: Glass Joseph E. , Dorsey Caitlin N. , Beatty Tara , Bobb Jennifer F. , Wong Edwin S. , Palazzo Lorella , King Deborah , Mogk Jessica , Stefanik-Guizlo Kelsey , Idu Abisola , Key Dustin , Fortney John C. , Thomas Rosemarie , McWethy Angela Garza , Caldeiro Ryan M. , Bradley Katharine A.
Published: February 2023

Background

Experts recommend that treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) be integrated into primary care. The Digital Therapeutics for Opioids and Other SUD (DIGITS) Trial tests strategies for implementing reSET® and reSET-O®, which are prescription digital therapeutics for SUD and opioid use disorder, respectively, that include the community reinforcement approach, contingency management, and fluency training to reinforce concept mastery. This purpose of this trial is to test whether two implementation strategies improve implementation success (Aim 1) and achieve better population-level cost effectiveness (Aim 2) over a standard implementation approach.

Methods/Design

The DIGITS Trial is a hybrid type III cluster-randomized trial. It examines outcomes of implementation strategies, rather than studying clinical outcomes of a digital therapeutic. It includes 22 primary care clinics from a healthcare system in Washington State and patients with unhealthy substance use who visit clinics during an active implementation period (up to one year). Primary care clinics implemented reSET and reSET-O using a multifaceted implementation strategy previously used by clinical leaders to roll-out smartphone apps (“standard implementation” including discrete strategies such as clinician training, electronic health record tools). Clinics were randomized as 21 sites in a 2x2 factorial design to receive up to two added implementation strategies: (1) practice facilitation, and/or (2) health coaching. Outcome data are derived from electronic health records and logs of digital therapeutic usage. Aim 1’s primary outcomes include reach of the digital therapeutics to patients and fidelity of patients’ use of the digital therapeutics to clinical recommendations. Substance use and engagement in SUD care are additional outcomes. In Aim 2, population-level cost effectiveness analysis will inform the economic benefit of the implementation strategies compared to standard implementation. Implementation is monitored using formative evaluation, and sustainment will be studied for up to one year using qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Discussion

The DIGITS Trial uses an experimental design to test whether implementation strategies increase and improve the delivery of digital therapeutics for SUDs when embedded in a large healthcare system. It will provide data on the potential benefits and cost-effectiveness of alternative implementation strategies. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05160233 (Submitted 12/3/2021). https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05160233
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and adolescents: determinants and association with quality of life and mental health—a cross-sectional study
Authors: Richard Viviane , Dumont Roxane , Lorthe Elsa , Loizeau Andrea , Baysson Hélène , Zaballa María-Eugenia , Pennacchio Francesco , Barbe Rémy P. , Posfay-Barbe Klara M. , Guessous Idris , Stringhini Silvia ,   SEROCoV-KIDS Study Group, Amrein Deborah , Arm-Vernez Isabelle , Azman Andrew S. , Bal Antoine , Balavoine Michael , Berthelot Julie , Bleich Patrick , Boehm Livia , Bryand Gaëlle , Bucolli Viola , Collombet Prune , Cudet Alain , Davidovic Vladimir , de Mestral Carlos , D’Ippolito Paola , Dubos Richard , Eckerle Isabella , El Merjani Nacira , Favier Marion , Francioli Natalie , Graindorge Clément , Harnal Séverine , Hurst Samia , Kaiser Laurent , Kherad Omar , Lamour Julien , Lescuyer Pierre , L’Huillier Arnaud G , Loizeau Andrea , Martinez Chantal , Mermet Stéphanie , Nehme Mayssam , Noël Natacha , Perez-Saez Javier , Perrin Anne , Pittet Didier , Portier Jane , Poulain Géraldine , Pugin Caroline , Pullen Nick , Rinaldi Frederic , Rochat Deborah , Sahyoun Cyril , Sakvarelidze Irine , Samir Khadija , Santa Ramirez Hugo Alejandro , Rizzo Jessica , Schrempft Stephanie , Semaani Claire , Testini Stéphanie , Tisserand Yvain , Urrutia Rivas Deborah , Verolet Charlotte , Villers Jennifer , Violot Guillemette , Vuilleumier Nicolas , Yerly Sabine , Zavlanou Christina
Published: February 2023

Background

The medium-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the wellbeing of children and adolescents remains unclear. More than 2 years into the pandemic, we aimed to quantify the frequency and determinants of having been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and estimate its impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mental health.

Methods

Data was drawn from a population-based cohort of children and adolescents, recruited between December 2021 and June 2022, in Geneva, Switzerland. The Coronavirus impact scale was used to assess the multidimensional impact of the pandemic on children through parent’s report. A score higher than one standard deviation above the mean was deemed a severe impact. Parents additionally reported about their offspring HRQoL and mental health with validated scales. Determinants of having been severely impacted were assessed with logistic models, as were the associations between having experienced a severe impact and poor HRQoL or mental health.

Results

Out of 2101 participants aged 2–17, 12.7% had experienced a severe pandemic impact. Having a lasting health condition, a pandemic-related worsening of lifestyle habits or an unfavorable family environment were associated with having been severely impacted by the pandemic, while a previous anti-SARS-CoV-2 infection was not. Participants who had experienced a severe pandemic impact were more likely to present poor HRQoL (aOR = 3.1; 95% CI 2.3–4.4) and poor mental health (aOR = 3.9; 95% CI 2.5–6.2).

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic may have persistent consequences on the wellbeing of children and adolescents, especially among those with health and family vulnerabilities.
Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a personalised self-management intervention for living with long COVID: protocol for the LISTEN randomised controlled trial
Authors: Potter Claire , Leggat Fiona , Lowe Rachel , Pallmann Philip , Riaz Muhammad , Barlow Christy , Edwards Adrian , Siriwardena Aloysius Niroshan , Sevdalis Nick , Sewell Bernadette , McRae Jackie , Fish Jessica , de Sousa de Abreu Maria Ines , Jones Fiona , Busse Monica
Published: February 2023

Background

Individuals living with long COVID experience multiple, interacting and fluctuating symptoms which can have a dramatic impact on daily living. The aim of the Long Covid Personalised Self-managemenT support EvaluatioN (LISTEN) trial is to evaluate effects of the LISTEN co-designed self-management support intervention for non-hospitalised people living with long COVID on participation in routine activities, social participation, emotional well-being, quality of life, fatigue, and self-efficacy. Cost-effectiveness will also be evaluated, and a detailed process evaluation carried out to understand how LISTEN is implemented.

Methods

The study is a pragmatic randomised effectiveness and cost-effectiveness trial in which a total of 558 non-hospitalised people with long COVID will be randomised to either the LISTEN intervention or usual care. Recruitment strategies have been developed with input from the LISTEN Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) advisory group and a social enterprise, Diversity and Ability, to ensure inclusivity. Eligible participants can self-refer into the trial via a website or be referred by long COVID services. All participants complete a range of self-reported outcome measures, online, at baseline, 6 weeks, and 3 months post randomisation (the trial primary end point). Those randomised to the LISTEN intervention are offered up to six one-to-one sessions with LISTEN-trained intervention practitioners and given a co-designed digital resource and paper-based book. A detailed process evaluation will be conducted alongside the trial to inform implementation approaches should the LISTEN intervention be found effective and cost-effective.

Discussion

The LISTEN trial is evaluating a co-designed, personalised self-management support intervention (the LISTEN intervention) for non-hospitalised people living with long COVID. The design has incorporated extensive strategies to minimise participant burden and maximise access. Whilst the duration of follow-up is limited, all participants are approached to consent for long-term follow-up (subject to additional funding being secured).

Trial registration

LISTEN ISRCTN36407216. Registered on 27/01/2022.
Autochthonous Onchocerca lupi infection of a domestic dog in Austria
Authors: Unterköfler Maria Sophia , Huck Alexandra , Silbermayr Katja , Fuehrer Hans-Peter
Published: February 2023

Onchocerca lupi is an emerging canine ocular pathogen with zoonotic potential. In Europe, known endemic areas are the Iberian Peninsula and Greece, but the parasite has also been found in Romania, Hungary, and Germany. A 5-year-old Irish Wolfhound was presented in August 2021 with ocular discharge. A subconjunctival granulomatous nodule containing several nematode fragments was removed. Molecular analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene confirmed the presence of O. lupi genotype 1. This is the first report of autochthonous O. lupi infection in a dog from Austria.

Graphical Abstract
Tumor stemness score to estimate epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cells (CSCs) characterization and to predict the prognosis and immunotherapy response in bladder urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yanlong , Zhang Xin , Huang Xuefeng , Tang Xiaomeng , Zhang Menghan , Li Ziyi , Hu Xiaopeng , Zhang Min , Wang Xi , Yan Yong
Published: February 2023

Background

A growing number of investigations have suggested a close link between cancer stem cells (CSCs), epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the relationships between these physiological processes in bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) remain unclear.

Methods

We first explored biomarkers of tumor stemness (TS) by single-cell sequencing analysis. Then, subtypes of bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) were identified using clustering analysis based on TS biomarkers. The TS score was constructed using principal component analysis to quantify tumor stemness in BLCA. Then, meta-analysis was performed to measure the hazard ratio of the TS score in BLCA cohorts. Moreover, we evaluated the clinical value of the TS score for predicting the response to tumor immunotherapy using immunotherapy cohorts. Finally, we built an EMT cell model by treating T24 cells with TGF-β and validated the relationship between the TS score and the EMT process in tumors by real-time quantitative PCR, cell invasion assays, and RNA-seq. In total, 3846 BLCA cells, 6 cell lines, 1627 BLCA samples, and 9858 samples from 32 other types of tumors were included in our study.

Results

Three TS clusters and two TS-related gene clusters were identified with differential EMT activity status, CSC features, and TME characteristics in BLCA. Then, a TS scoring system was established with 61 TS-related genes to quantify the TS. The prognostic value of the TS score was then confirmed in multiple independent cohorts. A high TS score was associated with high EMT activity, CSC characteristics, high stromal cell content, high TP53 mutation rate, poor prognosis, and high tumor immunotherapy tolerance. The cell line experiment and RNA-seq further validated that our TS score can reflect the EMT and CSC characterization of tumor cells.

Conclusion

Overall, this research provides a better understanding of tumor invasion and metastasis mechanisms through an analysis of TS patterns with different EMT processes and CSC characteristics. The TS score provides an index for EMT and CSC research and helps clinicians develop treatment plans and predict outcomes for patients.
Book review of “Media culture in nomadic communities” by Allison Hahn
Authors: Waters-Bayer Ann
Published: February 2023

Book details

Hahn, Allison H., Media culture in nomadic communities. Amsterdam: University of Amsterdam Press B.V.; 2021. 221 pp. ISBN: 978 94 63723022 (hardcover), e-ISBN: 978 90 4855030 2. DOI 10.5117/9789463723022.