bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ameliorative potential of the quercetin on lead-induced testicular damage: morphohistometric and biochemical analysis
Authors: Mustafa Hesham N.
Published: July 2023

Background

Quercetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid known for its potent antioxidant properties, has been investigated for its potential in counteracting the harmful effects of lead (Pb) toxicity, which induces apoptosis and oxidative damage in various human tissues. This study aims to assess the reparative effects of quercetin on lead-induced testicular damage.

Methods

Four groups, each comprising ten adult male albino rats, were randomly assigned as follows: Quercetin group, Pb group, Pb + Quercetin group, and control group. All treatments were administered orally via gavage daily for a duration of 30 days. Evaluation of sex hormone levels (serum testosterone, FSH, and LH), cytokines and inflammatory mediators (IL-1β, TNF-α, MCP-1), lead concentration, oxidative and antioxidant stress markers (superoxide anion [O2−], MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH), and sperm characteristics were carried out.

Results

The results demonstrated a significant decline in sex hormones and antioxidants, accompanied by an increase in lead concentrations, cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and oxidative stress indicators (O2−, MDA), while SOD, CAT, and GSH levels were reduced. The Pb-intoxicated group exhibited a substantial increase in dead and abnormal sperm, along with significant reductions in sperm concentration and motility. Morphometrically, a marked decrease was observed in spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, spermatids, and sertoli cells per seminiferous tubule, as well as epithelial height. Furthermore, coadministration of quercetin exhibited notable benefits. It significantly elevated testosterone levels (P < 0.001), testicular SOD, CAT, and GSH activities, while decreasing MDA levels (P < 0.001). Quercetin also mitigated the deleterious effects of lead toxicity on sperm parameters and restored morphometric variations, including epithelial height.

Conclusions

Quercetin supplementation alongside lead exposure showed a potential for ameliorating degenerative changes caused by lead toxicity in the testicles. This cotreatment effectively reduced oxidative stress, cytokine levels, inflammatory mediators, and restored biochemical alterations, thereby improving morphometric parameters.
Assessment of androgen receptor expression in breast cancer patients using 18 F-FDG PET/CT radiomics and clinicopathological characteristics
Authors: Jia Tongtong , Lv Qingfu , Zhang Bin , Yu Chunjing , Sang Shibiao , Deng Shengming
Published: July 2023

Objective

In the present study, we mainly aimed to predict the expression of androgen receptor (AR) in breast cancer (BC) patients by combing radiomic features and clinicopathological factors in a non-invasive machine learning way.

Materials and methods

A total of 48 BC patients, who were initially diagnosed by 18F-FDG PET/CT, were retrospectively enrolled in this study. LIFEx software was used to extract radiomic features based on PET and CT data. The most useful predictive features were selected by the LASSO (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) regression and t-test. Radiomic signatures and clinicopathologic characteristics were incorporated to develop a prediction model using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, Hosmer-Lemeshow (H-L) test, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were conducted to assess the predictive efficiency of the model.

Results

In the univariate analysis, the metabolic tumor volume (MTV) was significantly correlated with the expression of AR in BC patients (p < 0.05). However, there only existed feeble correlations between estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and AR status (p = 0.127, p = 0.061, respectively). Based on the binary logistic regression method, MTV, SHAPE_SphericityCT (CT Sphericity from SHAPE), and GLCM_ContrastCT (CT Contrast from grey-level co-occurrence matrix) were included in the prediction model for AR expression. Among them, GLCM_ContrastCT was an independent predictor of AR status (OR = 9.00, p = 0.018). The area under the curve (AUC) of ROC in this model was 0.832. The p-value of the H-L test was beyond 0.05.

Conclusions

A prediction model combining radiomic features and clinicopathological characteristics could be a promising approach to predict the expression of AR and noninvasively screen the BC patients who could benefit from anti-AR regimens.
Parents’ experiences of life after medicalised conception: a thematic meta-synthesis of the qualitative literature
Authors: Foyston Z. , Higgins L. , Smith D. M. , Wittkowski A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Medicalised Conception (MAC) assists many couples to achieve pregnancy worldwide. As the impact of MAC has been linked to increased pregnancy-specific anxiety and parenting difficulties, this review aimed to explore parental experiences of pregnancy and early parenting following MAC, identifying parents’ psychological, social and health needs.

Method

Five databases were searched systematically from inception to March 2023. Identified articles were screened for eligibility against the inclusion criteria and the results were analysed using thematic synthesis. The Critical Appraisal Skills checklist was employed to appraise methodological quality.

Results

Twenty qualitative studies, drawing on a total of 19 participant samples, were included in this review, most with samples with history of subfertility. The findings were synthesised into three main themes (consisting of seven subthemes): 1) The vulnerable parent: fear, doubt, uncertainty, 2) the stark realisation of the parental dream, 3) psychosocial needs and support. Parents lacked a sense of safety during pregnancy and reported acting protectively both antenatally and postnatally. Furthermore, their identity transition was complex and non-linear, influenced by sociocultural context.

Conclusions

Considerable unmet psychosocial needs were identified including the potential for anxiety in pregnancy, the possibility of feeling excluded and marginalised, and a reluctance to share distress and experiences with healthcare professionals. These findings suggest a need for consistent, holistic care, integrating psychological services.
MicroRNA-191 regulates oral squamous cell carcinoma cells growth by targeting PLCD1 via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Zekun , Guan Wenzhao , Ma Yufeng , Zhou Xuedong , Song Guohua , Wei Jianing , Wang Chenyang
Published: July 2023

Background

Studies have shown that microRNA-191 (miR-191) is involved in the development and progression of a variety of tumors. However, the function and mechanism of miR-191 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) have not been clarified.

Methods

The expression level of miR-191 in tumor tissues of patients with primary OSCC and OSCC cell lines were detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot. OSCC cells were treated with miR-191 enhancers and inhibitors to investigate the effects of elevated or decreased miR-191 expression on OSCC cells proliferation, migration, cell cycle, and tumorigenesis. The target gene of miR-191 in OSCC cells were analyzed by dual-Luciferase assay, and the downstream signaling pathway of the target genes was detected using western blot assay.

Results

The expression of miR-191 was significantly upregulated in OSCC tissues and cell lines. Upregulation of miR-191 promoted proliferation, migration, invasion, and cell cycle progression of OSCC cells, as well as tumor growth in nude mice. Meanwhile, reduced expression of miR-191 inhibited these processes. Phospholipase C delta1 (PLCD1) expression was significantly downregulated, and negatively correlated with the expression of miR-191 in OSCC tissues. Dual-Luciferase assays showed that miR-191-5p could bind to PLCD1 mRNA and regulate PLCD1 protein expression. Western blot assay showed that the miR-191 regulated the expression of β-catenin and its downstream gene through targeting PLCD1.

Conclusion

MicroRNA-191 regulates oral squamous cell carcinoma cells growth by targeting PLCD1 via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Thus, miR-191 may serve as a potential target for the treatment of OSCC.
Retraction Note: Hsa_circ_0005379 regulates malignant behavior of oral squamous cell carcinoma through the EGFR pathway
Authors: Su Wen , Wang Yufan , Wang Feng , Sun Shuai , Li Minghua , Shen Yuehong , Yang Hongyu
Published: July 2023

This article has been retracted. Please see the Retraction Notice for more detail: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-019-5593-5.
Efficacy and safety of Xian-Lian-Jie-Du optimization decoction as an adjuvant treatment for prevention of recurrence in patients with stage IIIB/IIIC colon cancer: study protocol for a multicentre, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Geng Xuechen , Wang Ziqiang , Feng Li , Gu Yanhong , Wang Renjie , Yao Qinghua , Xu Yangxian , Wu Jianyu , Jiang Zhiwei , Chen Kai , Hu Wenwei , Tang Dongxin , Huo Jiege , Li Ling , Bu Qianqian , Zhao Shuoqi , Zhang Bei , Cheng Haibo
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Colon cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide. Unfortunately, there are no recognized and effective therapeutic strategies to prevent tumor recurrence after radical resection and chemotherapy, and the disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with stage IIIB or IIIC disease remains unsatisfactory. Xian-Lian-Jie-Du optimization decoction (XLJDOD) is a Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) empirical prescription, which has been validated experimentally and clinically that could inhibit the progression of colorectal cancer and ameliorate the symptoms. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of XLJDOD in prevention of recurrence of colon cancer.

Methods

This study is a multi-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial conducted at 13 hospitals of China. Following the completion of surgery and adjuvant 5- fluorouracil-based chemotherapy, a total of 730 subjects with stage IIIB or IIIC colon cancer will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to an intervention group (n = 365; XLJDOD compound granule) and a control group (n = 365; Placebo). Patients will receive 6-month treatments and be followed up with 3 monthly assessments for 2 years. The primary outcome is 2-year DFS rate and the secondary outcomes are 1, 2-year relapse rate (RR), overall survival (OS) and quality of life (QoL). Safety outcomes such as adverse events will be also assessed. A small number of subgroup analysis will be carried out to explore the heterogeneity of effects of XLJDOD.

Discussion

The outcomes from this randomized controlled trial will provide objective evidences to evaluate XLJDOD’s role as an adjuvant treatment in colon cancer.

Trial registration

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT05709249. Registered on 31 Jan 2023.
Dental students’ perception of their educational environment in relation to their satisfaction with dentistry major: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gil Yoon Min , Hong Ji Soo , Ban Ju Ly , Kwon Jae-Sung , Lee Jae-Il
Published: July 2023

Background

Students’ perception of their educational environment and satisfaction with their major can reveal the extent of their readiness to practice their profession after graduation. This study aimed to evaluate dental students’ perception of their educational environment and satisfaction with their major in dentistry, as well as the relationship between these two factors.

Methods

An online survey was conducted in 2022 among first- to fourth-year students across 11 dental schools in Korea. The Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM) and Academic Major Satisfaction Scale (AMSS) were used to measure the students’ perception of the educational environment and satisfaction with their major in dentistry, respectively.

Results

A total of 539 students participated in the survey (response rate = 18.1%). The overall mean scores of the DREEM and AMSS were 125.03 (maximum score 200) and 22.01 (maximum score 30), respectively. Fourth-year students had the lowest scores in the overall DREEM, DREEM subscales (excluding students’ perceptions of atmosphere), and AMSS. The overall DREEM scores and all DREEM subscales showed statistically significant positive and moderate correlations with AMSS (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Using the DREEM, we identified areas that need improvement and the academic year (fourth year) that require proactive support. Considering the positive correlation between all DREEM subscales and the AMSS, measures to comprehensively improve the educational environment are needed to improve dental students’ satisfaction with their major.
Spatially resolved, high-dimensional transcriptomics sorts out the evolution of biphasic malignant pleural mesothelioma: new paradigms for immunotherapy
Authors: Torricelli F , Donati B , Reggiani F , Manicardi V , Piana S , Valli R , Lococo F , Ciarrocchi Alessia
Published: July 2023

Background

Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM) is a dreadful disease escaping the classical genetic model of cancer evolution and characterized by wide heterogeneity and transcriptional plasticity. Clinical evolution of MPM is marked by a progressive transdifferentiation that converts well differentiated epithelioid (E) cells into undifferentiated and pleomorphic sarcomatoid (S) phenotypes. Catching the way this transition takes place is necessary to understand how MPM develops and progresses and it is mandatory to improve patients’ management and life expectancy. Bulk transcriptomic approaches, while providing a significant overview, failed to resolve the timing of this evolution and to identify the hierarchy of molecular events through which this transition takes place.

Methods

We applied a spatially resolved, high-dimensional transcriptomic approach to study MPM morphological evolution. 139 regions across 8 biphasic MPMs (B-MPMs) were profiled using the GeoMx™Digital Spatial Profiler to reconstruct the positional context of transcriptional activities and the spatial topology of MPM cells interactions. Validation was conducted on an independent large cohort of 84 MPMs by targeted digital barcoding analysis.

Results

Our results demonstrated the existence of a complex circular ecosystem in which, within a strong asbestos-driven inflammatory environment, MPM and immune cells affect each other to support S-transdifferentiation. We also showed that TGFB1 polarized M2-Tumor Associated Macrophages foster immune evasion and that TGFB1 expression correlates with reduced survival probability.

Conclusions

Besides providing crucial insights into the multidimensional interactions governing MPM clinical evolution, these results open new perspectives to improve the use of immunotherapy in this disease.
Successful treatment of lupus anticoagulant hypoprothrombinemia syndrome with rituximab
Authors: Nusrat Sanober , Tewari Sayani , Khan Osman
Published: July 2023

Lupus anticoagulant-hypoprothrombinemia syndrome (LAHPS) is a rare acquired bleeding disorder secondary to development of antibodies against prothrombin protein, in the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. We describe the case of a 13-year-old girl who presented with severe menorrhagia and symptomatic anemia. Labs indicated anemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated PT and aPTT, high-titer inhibitor on mixing studies, positive ANA and anti-dsDNA antibodies, along with a triple-positive antiphospholipid antibody panel. Given additional systemic manifestations, systemic lupus erythematosus was diagnosed. High dose steroids and hydroxychloroquine subsequently started. Her clinical course was complicated by femoral deep venous thrombosis and post renal biopsy retroperitoneal hematoma. Further workup revealed low prothrombin level and the diagnosis of lupus anticoagulant hypoprothrombinemia syndrome. In view of suboptimal response to initial immunosuppressive therapy, rituximab was added to her regimen, leading to an improvement in clinical symptoms and resolution of hypoprothrombinemia. She remains recurrence free 5 years from the event.
Wildfire national carbon accounting: how natural and anthropogenic landscape fires emissions are treated in the 2020 Australian government greenhouse gas accounts report to the UNFCCC
Authors: Bowman David MJS , Williamson Grant J. , Ndalila Mercy , Roxburgh Stephen H. , Suitor Shaun , Keenan Rodney J.
Published: July 2023

Greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting of emissions from land use, land-use change, and forestry necessarily involves consideration of landscape fire. This is of particular importance for Australia given that natural and human fire is a common occurrence, and many ecosystems are adapted to fire, and require periodic burning for plant regeneration and ecological health. Landscape fire takes many forms, can be started by humans or by lightning, and can be managed or uncontrolled. We briefly review the underlying logic of greenhouse gas accounting involving landscape fire in the 2020 Australian Government GHG inventory report. The treatment of wildfire that Australia chooses to enact under the internationally agreed guidelines is based on two core assumptions (a) that effects of natural and anthropogenic fire in Australian vegetation carbon stocks are transient and they return to the pre-fire level relatively quickly, and (b) that historically and geographically anomalous wildfires in forests should be excluded from national anthropogenic emission estimates because they are beyond human control. It is now widely accepted that anthropogenic climate change is contributing to increased frequency and severity of forest fires in Australia, therefore challenging assumptions about the human agency in fire-related GHG emissions and carbon balance. Currently, the national inventory focuses on forest fires; we suggest national greenhouse gas accounting needs to provide a more detailed reporting of vegetation fires including: (a) more detailed mapping of fire severity patterns; (b) more comprehensive emission factors; (c) better growth and recovery models from different vegetation types; (d) improved understanding how fires of different severities affect carbon stocks; and (e) improved analysis of the human agency behind the causes of emissions, including ignition types and fire-weather conditions. This more comprehensive accounting of carbon emissions would provide greater incentives to improve fire management practices that reduce the frequency, severity, and extent of uncontrolled landscape fires.
Eye movement verification and evaluation of initial sandplay picture system for internet addiction symptoms in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Ge Ying , Huo Jun Yu , Yang Hai Bo , Wenger Jay L. , Yuan Jing Yi , Sun Xiao Jie
Published: July 2023

Background

Sandplay therapy is a psychotherapeutic technique, based on the psychoanalytic theory of the unconscious. Nearly a century after it was developed, sandplay can now be applied for the initial diagnosis tools for sand players. The goal of the current research is to demonstrate the role of sandplay in identifying internet-addicted adolescents in China. The study aims to evaluate the reliability and validity for sandplay as a diagnosis and evaluation tool for internet addiction symptoms, and to verify the consistency that exists between results based on sandplay pictures and those based on the Pathological Internet Usage Scale for Adolescents (APIUS).

Methods

The research was conducted with a 2 × 2 mixed factorial design – two types of participants (addicts and non-addicts) and two types of sandplay pictures (pictures for addicts and pictures for non-addicts). An absolute recognition-judgment paradigm was used along with eye movement evaluations to evaluate the existing initial sandplay picture system for internet addiction symptoms (22 sandplay pictures, 11 related to addicts and 11 related to non-addicts, respectively). Sixty Chinese adolescents were selected as the participants (30 as addicts and 30 as non-addicts) according to the APIUS.

Results

(1) The initial sandplay pictures for internet addicts are clearly preferred by Chinese internet-addicted adolescents, which are more familiar and easier to process; (2) Such pictures have a higher level of emotional arousal and cognitive resonance for the addicts; (3) Track and heat maps indicate that young internet addicts mainly fixate on the initial sandplay pictures for internet addicts.

Conclusion

This initial sandplay picture system can be used to screen and identify young Chinese internet addicts based on symptoms, and the evaluation results are consistent with those based on the APIUS.
Chemotherapy-induced exosomal circBACH1 promotes breast cancer resistance and stemness via miR-217/G3BP2 signaling pathway
Authors: Xia Wenjie , Chen Wuzhen , Ni Chao , Meng Xuli , Wu Jun , Yang Qiong , Tang Hongchao , Yuan Hongjun , Fang Shan
Published: July 2023

Background

Chemoresistance involves metastasis and aggressiveness of breast cancer (BC). Chemotherapy-elicited exosomes have been reported to be associated with drug resistance and pro-metastatic capacity of BC cells. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are enriched in exosomes, which participated in generation, progression, and resistance of BC. However, the mechanism underlying the chemoresistance and metastasis in BC cells mediated by the BC-derived exosomal ncRNAs remained to be elucidated.

Methods

The effects of PTX-induced exosomal circBACH1 on BC cell function were assessed using RNA Binding Protein Immunoprecipitation (RIP), dual luciferase reporter gene, tube formation, CCK-8, and Western Blot assays. The circBACH1 and miR-217 expression levels were detected using quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays in BC tissues and precancerous tissues of BC patients.

Results

CircBACH1 expression was increased in paclitaxel-treated BC-derived exosomes (PTX-EXO) and BC tissue. PTX-EXO was shown to promote PTX-resistance and angiogenesis through upregulation circBACH1. Downregulation of circBACH1 improved PTX-sensitiveness by suppressing the cell viability, stemness, migration, and angiogenesis of BC cells. Moreover, we found that miR-217 interacted with circBACH1 and targeted GTPase-activating SH3 domain-binding protein 2 (G3BP2) in BC cells. CircBACH1 combined miR-217 cotransfection suppressed the expression of G3BP2 proteins compared with circBACH1 treatment in MCF-7 cells. In addition, downregulation of G3BP2 suppressed BC cell migration.

Conclusions

These results demonstrated that PTX-induced exosomal circBACH1 promoted stemness and migration of BC cells by sponging miR-217 to upregulate the expression of G3BP2, which provided a new therapeutic target for PTX-resistance and progression of BC via circBACH1/miR-217/G3BP2 axis.
A new strategy for the determination of the antidiabetics alogliptin, saxagliptin and vildagliptin using all-solid state potentiometric sensors
Authors: Derar Abeer Rashad , Ahmed Neven , Hussien Emad Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Herein, we report on the development of disposable screen printed carbon, nanostructure thin film Au/Pt and Pt/Pt all-solid state potentiometric sensors for some antidiabetic compounds called glibtins. The electrodes showed excellent calibration curves (1 × 10–5–1 × 10–2 M) for alogliptin, saxagliptin and vildagliptin. The electrodes were fully characterized with respect to potential stability, dynamic response time, detection limit, effect of pH and interference according to the IUPAC recommendation. The proposed method is rapid and can be applied for the determination of gliptins at low cost with satisfactory precision (RSD ≤ 1%) and accuracy.
Identification of key DNA methylation changes on fasting plasma glucose: a genome-wide DNA methylation analysis in Chinese monozygotic twins
Authors: Wang Weijing , Yao Wenqin , Tan Qihua , Li Shuxia , Duan Haiping , Tian Xiaocao , Xu Chunsheng , Zhang Dongfeng
Published: July 2023

Background

Elevated fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels can increase morbidity and mortality even when it is below the diagnostic threshold of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We conducted a genome-wide DNA methylation analysis to detect DNA methylation (DNAm) variants potentially related to FPG in Chinese monozygotic twins.

Methods

Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling in whole blood of twins was performed using Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS), yielding 551,447 raw CpGs. Association between DNAm of single CpG and FPG was tested using a generalized estimation equation. Differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified usingcomb-Papproach. ICE FALCON method was utilized to perform the causal inference. Candidate CpGs were quantified and validated using Sequenom MassARRAY platform in a community population. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted using gene expression data from twins.

Results

The mean age of 52 twin pairs was 52 years (SD: 7). The relationship between DNAm of 142 CpGs and FPG reached the genome-wide significance level. Thirty-two DMRs within 24 genes were identified, includingTLCD1,MRPS31P5,CASZ1, andCXADRP3. The causal relationship of top CpGs mapped toTLCD1,MZF1,PTPRN2,SLC6A18,ASTN2,IQCA1,GRIN1, andPDE2Agenes with FPG were further identified using ICE FALCON method.Pathways potentially related to FPG were also identified, such as phospholipid-hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase activity and mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 binding. Three CpGs mapped toSLC6A18gene were validated in a community population, with a hypermethylated direction in diabetic patients. The expression levels of 18 genes (includingSLC6A18andTLCD1) were positively correlated with FPG levels.

Conclusions

We detect many DNAm variants that may be associated with FPG in whole blood, particularly the loci withinSLC6A18gene. Our findings provide important reference for the epigenetic regulation of elevated FPG levels and diabetes.
CT and chest radiography in evaluation of mechanical circulatory support devices for acute heart failure
Authors: Chaturvedi Abhishek , Rotman Yonatan , Hoang Timothy , Jew Greg , Mandalapu Aniruddh , Narins Craig
Published: July 2023

Acute heart failure and cardiogenic shock are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients who have had recent cardiac surgery, myocardial infarct or pulmonary hypertension. The use of percutaneous mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices before organ failure occurs can improve outcomes in these patients. Imaging plays a key role in identifying appropriate positioning of MCS devices for supporting ventricle function. These devices can be used for left ventricle, right ventricle or biventricular support. Fluoroscopy, angiography and echocardiography are used for implanting these devices. Radiographs and CT can identify both intra- and extra-cardiac complications. The cardiothoracic imager will see increasing use of these devices and familiarity with their normal appearance and complications is important.

Critical relevance statement

Chest radiographs and CT are useful for assessing the position of the mechanical cardiac support device used for treatment of acute heart failure. CT can identify cardiac and extra-cardiac complications associated with these devices.

Graphical abstract

Key points

IABP upper/distal marker should be 2–3 cm distal to the ostia of the left subclavian artery.

Inlet of Impella CP should be 3.5 cm below the aortic valve.

The Impella 5.5 does not have a pigtail portion. The inlet should be about 5 cm below the aortic annulus.

Impella RP inlet port should be in the right atrium or inferior vena cava, the pigtail portion should be positioned in the main pulmonary artery.

Protek Duo inflow is in the right atrium or right ventricle. The outflow is in the main pulmonary artery.
Whole-body low-dose CT can be of value in prostate cancer decision-making: a retrospective study on 601 patients
Authors: Chavoshi Mohammadreza , Mirshahvalad Seyed Ali , Zamani Sara , Radmard Amir Reza , Fallahi Babak , Mousavi Seyed Asadollah
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic value of whole-body low-dose computed tomography (CT) to detect bone metastasis in prostate cancer (PCa) patients and its possible utility in therapeutic decision-making. Also, to determine the valuable CT features for lesion characterisation.

Methods

This IRB-approved retrospective study reviewed PCa patients who underwent 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT in our centre from March 2017 to August 2022. Two board-certified radiologists and one nuclear medicine specialist reported all whole-body low-dose CT scans separately, unaware of the 68Ga-PSMA-PET results. The per-lesion and per-patient diagnostic performances were calculated. Also, the significance of CT features was evaluated. Moreover, the inter-observer agreement was analysed. A two-tailed p value < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

From 727 reviewed PCa patients, 601 (mean age = 68.7 ± 8.1) were found to be eligible, including 211 (35.1%) referrals for initial staging and 390 (64.9%) for evaluating the extent of the disease after biochemical recurrence. Per-patient diagnostic analysis for three reviewers showed 81.0–89.4% sensitivity and 96.6–98.5% specificity in detecting osteo-metastasis. It was able to correctly detect high-burden disease based on both CHAARTED and LATITUDE criteria. Regarding the value of underlying CT features, size > 1 cm, ill-defined borders, presence of soft-tissue component, and cortical destruction were statistically in favour of metastasis. Also, Hu > 900 was in favour of benign entities with 93% specificity.

Conclusions

Although not as accurate as 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT, whole-body low-dose CT might precisely classify PCa patients considering therapeutic decision-making. Additionally, we proposed diagnostic CT features that could help radiologists with better characterisation of the detected lesions.

Critical relevance statement

The whole-body low-dose CT can be considered valuable in the clinical decision-making of prostate cancer patients. This modality may obviate performing multiple imaging sessions and high-cost scans in patients diagnosed with the high-burden disease.

Graphical abstract
Contact time has limited impact on the efficacy of disinfectant towelettes when tested under conditions reflective of realistic use
Authors: Kelley Alyssa M. , Voorn Maxwell G. , Tembo Geraldine M. , Horn Connor M. , Li Xiaobao , Teska Peter J. , Oliver Haley F.
Published: July 2023

Background

Disinfectant towelettes are increasingly being used as a means to prevent transmission of clinically important pathogens which could lead to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). However, the efficacy of disinfectant towelette products when tested under realistic use conditions is understudied. A test model was designed to replicate realistic wiping conditions. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of varied contact time on disinfectant towelette efficacy under these conditions.

Methods

Five product types were tested against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15,442) at five contact times (30 s, one min, two min, three min, and 10 min) on hard, non-porous laminate templates to determine the impact of contact time on disinfectant towelette efficacy when tested under realistic use.

Results

Product type had a significant impact on the efficacy of disinfectant towelettes when tested under conditions reflective of realistic use. The effect of contact time was limited and no differences in efficacy were seen at a contact time of one min compared with the other contact times tested. Only one disinfectant towelette product achieved a mean 5-log reduction under the tested conditions.

Conclusion

Efficacy of disinfectant towelettes was primarily impacted by product type when applied in a model designed to replicate realistic use in which only a limited effect of contact time was observed. There is a need for further investigation into which factors have the greatest impact on disinfectant towelette efficacy when applied in clinical settings.
Genomic alterations related to HPV infection status in a cohort of Chinese prostate cancer patients
Authors: Lang Bin , Cao Chen , Zhao Xiaoxiao , Wang Yi , Cao Ying , Zhou Xueying , Zhao Tong , Wang Yuyan , Liu Ting , Liang Wenjia , Hu Zheng , Tian Xun , Zhang Jingjing , Yan Yongji
Published: July 2023

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been proposed as a potential pathogenetic organism involved in prostate cancer (PCa), but the association between HPV infection and relevant genomic changes in PCa is poorly understood.

Methods

To evaluate the relationship between HPV genotypes and genomic alterations in PCa, HPV capture sequencing of DNA isolated from 59 Han Chinese PCa patients was performed using an Illumina HiSeq2500. Additionally, whole-exome sequencing of DNA from these 59 PCa tissue samples and matched normal tissues was carried out using the BGI DNBSEQ platform. HPV infection status and genotyping were determined, and the genetic disparities between HPV-positive and HPV-negative PCa were evaluated.

Results

The presence of the high-risk HPV genome was identified in 16.9% of our cohort, and HPV16 was the most frequent genotype detected. The overall mutational burden in HPV-positive and HPV-negative PCa was similar, with an average of 2.68/Mb versus 2.58/Mb, respectively, in the targeted whole-exome region. HPV-negative tumors showed a mutational spectrum concordant with published PCa analyses with enrichment for mutations in SPOP, FOXA1, and MED12. HPV-positive tumors showed more mutations in KMT2C, KMT2D and ERCC2. Copy number alterations per sample were comparable between the two groups. However, the significantly amplified or deleted regions of the two groups only partially overlapped. We identified amplifications in oncogenes, including FCGR2B and CCND1, and deletions of tumor suppressors, such as CCNC and RB1, only in HPV-negative tumors. HPV-positive tumors showed unique deletions of tumor suppressors such as NTRK1 and JAK1.

Conclusions

The genomic mutational landscape of PCa differs based on HPV infection status. This work adds evidence for the direct involvement of HPV in PCa etiology. Different genomic features render HPV-positive PCa a unique subpopulation that might benefit from virus-targeted therapy.
Household socio-economic determinants of food security in Limpopo Province of South Africa: a cross sectional survey
Authors: Tambe Betrand Ayuk , Mabapa Ngoako Solomon , Mbhatsani Hlekani Vanessa , Mandiwana Tshifhiwa Cynthia , Mushaphi Lindelani Fhumudzani , Mohlala Merriam , Mbhenyane Xikombiso Gertrude
Published: July 2023

Background

Despite the strong commitment at both national and international levels to eradicate hunger and achieve household food security, by 2030 food insecurity remains a public health problem. South Africa is amongst the countries with the highest rate of income inequality in the world and extremely high levels of absolute poverty. The Gini coefficient in South Africa is estimated at 0.68 Although South Africa may be food secure at a national level, large numbers of households within the country are food insecure approximately 52% of the rural households in Limpopo Province of South Africa were considered severely food insecure. It has been noted that the majority of households in South African informal settlements and rural areas were moderately or severely food insecure due to lack of access to food which was directly related to income. Rural areas have assets that can be explored to support households. The adult population above 18 years in South Africa make up 78% of the 5.9 million population with about 40% living in rural areas, this study explored household food insecurity in adults in rural environments. The current study aimed to explore the socioeconomic and dietary determinants of household food insecurity among the adult population in the Limpopo Province.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey design was used, and data were collected using a validated pre-tested questionnaire. The participants were recruited from households in Limpopo province. Multiple linear regression was computed to explore the influence of socioeconomic and dietary practices on food insecurity.

Results

The study included 699 randomly selected participants of which the majority earned a monthly income ≤ 3000 ZAR, and 31.8% experiencing hunger in the past 30 days at the time of study. The dietary practices of the participants were found to be associated with household food insecurity. The study found that large family size, being female in South Africa, low household income and low rate of regular breakfast intake were significant determinants of household food insecurity (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In summary, most of the households were poor and approximately one-third were food insecure. The implementation of sustainable employment policies, and food-based approaches and targeting rural household food production could significantly reduce food insecurity in the rural area.
Serum proteome profiles in patients treated with targeted temperature management after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Lileikyte Gabriele , Bakochi Anahita , Ali Ashfaq , Moseby-Knappe Marion , Cronberg Tobias , Friberg Hans , Lilja Gisela , Levin Helena , Årman Filip , Kjellström Sven , Dankiewicz Josef , Hassager Christian , Malmström Johan , Nielsen Niklas
Published: July 2023

Background

Definition of temporal serum proteome profiles after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest may identify biological processes associated with severe hypoxia–ischaemia and reperfusion. It may further explore intervention effects for new mechanistic insights, identify candidate prognostic protein biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. This pilot study aimed to investigate serum proteome profiles from unconscious patients admitted to hospital after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest according to temperature treatment and neurological outcome.

Methods

Serum samples at 24, 48, and 72 h after cardiac arrest at three centres included in the Target Temperature Management after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest trial underwent data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry analysis (DIA-MS) to find changes in serum protein concentrations associated with neurological outcome at 6-month follow-up and targeted temperature management (TTM) at 33 °C as compared to 36 °C. Neurological outcome was defined according to Cerebral Performance Category (CPC) scale as “good” (CPC 1–2, good cerebral performance or moderate disability) or “poor” (CPC 3–5, severe disability, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, or death).

Results

Of 78 included patients [mean age 66 ± 12 years, 62 (80.0%) male], 37 (47.4%) were randomised to TTM at 36 °C. Six-month outcome was poor in 47 (60.3%) patients. The DIA-MS analysis identified and quantified 403 unique human proteins. Differential protein abundance testing comparing poor to good outcome showed 19 elevated proteins in patients with poor outcome (log2-fold change (FC) range 0.28–1.17) and 16 reduced proteins (log2(FC) between − 0.22 and − 0.68), involved in inflammatory/immune responses and apoptotic signalling pathways for poor outcome and proteolysis for good outcome. Analysis according to level of TTM showed a significant protein abundance difference for six proteins [five elevated proteins in TTM 36 °C (log2(FC) between 0.33 and 0.88), one reduced protein (log2(FC) − 0.6)] mainly involved in inflammatory/immune responses only at 48 h after cardiac arrest.

Conclusions

Serum proteome profiling revealed an increase in inflammatory/immune responses and apoptosis in patients with poor outcome. In patients with good outcome, an increase in proteolysis was observed, whereas TTM-level only had a modest effect on the proteome profiles. Further validation of the differentially abundant proteins in response to neurological outcome is necessary to validate novel biomarker candidates that may predict prognosis after cardiac arrest.
Uptake of modern contraceptive methods among women of reproductive age in Chake District-Pemba Tanzania: a descriptive crossectional study
Authors: Abeid Rehema Abdalla , Sumari Emmanuel Izack , Qin Chunxiang , Lyimo Ally Abdul , Luttaay Godrian Aron
Published: July 2023

Background

The uptake of the modern contraceptive method provides chances for women and couples to reach optimal child spacing, achieve the desired family size and prevent unsafe abortions and maternal deaths. Despite the efforts in the health sector still, the contraceptive prevalence rate in Zanzibar remains low (9.1%). In Pemba, few studies have been done on modern contraceptive uptake and little is known about factors that hinder the uptake of modern contraceptives among women of reproductive age. This study investigated the uptake of modern contraceptive methods among women of reproductive age (18-45 years) and its associated factors.

Methods

This was a quantitative cross-sectional study conducted in Chake District Hospital, Pemba Tanzania. A stratified random sampling technique was used to recruit 214 eligible participants for the study. After we informed the participants, data were collected using a structured English questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 25, descriptive analysis was done to determine frequencies. A chi-square test was done to determine the association between the study variables and multivariate logistic regression to check the nature and strength of the association. The p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

This study included 214 women of with majority 79(36.9%) at the age group of 21-30 years, 100(46.7%) had secondary education and 187(87.4%) married. Most of the participants 212(99.1%) have heard about modern contraceptives, with health facilities being the common source of information191(45.3). More than half 120(56.1%) of the participants were not using any modern contraceptive method and injectable 38(40.4%) was the commonly reported method among users. Among the users of modern contraceptives, lack of power to decide 180(84.1%), fear of divorce 141(65.9%), and social perception of users as the cause of reduced workforce in the future 161(75.2%) were common barriers. Participants provided suggestions to improve modern contraceptive uptake including male involvement 203(94.9%) and community awareness 182(85%). Further analysis revealed women with college/university education were 2 times more likely to use modern contraceptives method compared to those with primary or not attended school(p=0.023, OR=2.437, 95% CI: 1.129-5.259). Moreover employed women were 2 times more likely to use modern contraceptives compared to unemployed/housewives (p=0.028, OR=1.844, CI=1.068-3.185).

Conclusion

This study assesses the uptake of modern contraceptives among women of reproductive age. Results showed a low uptake of modern contraceptives in this population.

Although the observation in this study is similar to those reported in other countries, the updated information is still important to the policymakers and the Ministry of Health in the studied district.
Lipid in microglial biology — from material to mediator
Authors: Yamamoto Shota , Masuda Takahiro
Published: July 2023

Microglia are resident macrophages in the central nervous system (CNS) that play various roles during brain development and in the pathogenesis of CNS diseases. Recently, reprogramming of cellular energetic metabolism in microglia has drawn attention as a crucial mechanism for diversification of microglial functionality. Lipids are highly diverse materials and crucial components of cell membranes in every cell. Accumulating evidence has shown that lipid and its metabolism are tightly involved in microglial biology. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about microglial lipid metabolism in health and disease.
Students’ voices on generative AI: perceptions, benefits, and challenges in higher education
Authors: Chan Cecilia Ka Yuk , Hu Wenjie
Published: July 2023

This study explores university students’ perceptions of generative AI (GenAI) technologies, such as ChatGPT, in higher education, focusing on familiarity, their willingness to engage, potential benefits and challenges, and effective integration. A survey of 399 undergraduate and postgraduate students from various disciplines in Hong Kong revealed a generally positive attitude towards GenAI in teaching and learning. Students recognized the potential for personalized learning support, writing and brainstorming assistance, and research and analysis capabilities. However, concerns about accuracy, privacy, ethical issues, and the impact on personal development, career prospects, and societal values were also expressed. According to John Biggs’ 3P model, student perceptions significantly influence learning approaches and outcomes. By understanding students’ perceptions, educators and policymakers can tailor GenAI technologies to address needs and concerns while promoting effective learning outcomes. Insights from this study can inform policy development around the integration of GenAI technologies into higher education. By understanding students’ perceptions and addressing their concerns, policymakers can create well-informed guidelines and strategies for the responsible and effective implementation of GenAI tools, ultimately enhancing teaching and learning experiences in higher education.
Hierarchical under frequency load shedding scheme for inter-connected power systems
Authors: Cai Guowei , Zhou Shuyu , Liu Cheng , Zhang Yuchi , Guo Shujia , Cao Zhichong
Published: July 2023

Severe disturbances in a power network can cause the system frequency to exceed the safe operating range. As the last defensive line for system emergency control, under frequency load shedding (UFLS) is an important method for preventing a wide range of frequency excursions. This paper proposes a hierarchical UFLS scheme of “centralized real-time decision-making and decentralized real-time control” for inter-connected systems. The centralized decision-layer of the scheme takes into account the importance of the load based on the equivalent transformation of kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE) in the transient energy function (TEF), while the load PE is used to determine the load shedding amount (LSA) allocation in different loads after faults in real-time. At the same time, the influence of inertia loss is considered in the calculation of unbalanced power, and the decentralized control center is used to implement the one-stage UFLS process to compensate for the unbalanced power. Simulations are carried out on the modified New England 10-generator 39-bus system and 197-bus system in China to verify the performance of the proposed scheme. The results show that, compared with other LSA allocation indicators, the proposed allocation indicators can achieve better fnadir and td. At the same time, compared with other multi-stage UFLS schemes, the proposed scheme can obtain the maximum fnadir with a smaller LSA in scenarios with high renewable energy sources (RES) penetration.