bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of percutaneous key lesion endoscopic lumbar decompression for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis in octogenarian patients
Authors: Yang Chien-Tung , Hung Cheng-Che , Wu Chih-Ying , Chiu You-Pen , Guo Jeng-Hung , Ji Hui-Ru , Chiu Cheng-Di
Published: November 2024

Introduction

With increasing life expectancy, degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) has become a common problem in the geriatric population. LSS reduces the quality of life, limits daily activities, and requires therapeutic aids. We share our experiences of treating octogenarian patients with LSS with key lesion percutaneous single portal endoscopic unilateral laminotomy and bilateral decompression (sEndo-ULBD).

Materials and methods

Nine octogenarian patients who underwent sEndo-ULBD between January 2021 and July 2022 were prospectively enrolled in this study. Their visual analogue score (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), disc height, spondylolisthesis, lumbar lordotic angle, lumbar scoliotic angle, and spinal canal area before and after sEndo-ULBD were followed up for more than six months.

Results

The VAS score was significantly reduced three months after the operation (p < 0.05). The postoperative ODI scores of all patients improved relative to their preoperative scores; this difference became significant in the third month after the operation (p < 0.05). Index-level disc height did not significantly change after the operation. Spondylolisthesis, lumbar lordotic angle, and lumbar scoliotic angle showed no significant curve progression. The spinal canal area increased markedly after sEndo-ULBD (p <0.05), with no known surgery-related complications.

Conclusions

Key lesion sEndo-ULBD was an appropriate, safe, and effective treatment for octogenarian patients suffering from degenerative LSS. With an average follow-up of over one year, we did not find any significant progression in spinal curvature or instability. sEndo-ULBD is an ideal alternative to aggressive fusion fixation lumbar surgery for managing degenerative LSS in octogenarian patients with functional disability.
Comparing the impact of contextual associations and statistical regularities in visual search and attention orienting
Authors: Sefranek Marcus , Zokaei Nahid , Draschkow Dejan , Nobre Anna C.
Published: November 2024

During visual search, we quickly learn to attend to an object’s likely location. Research has shown that this process can be guided by learning target locations based on consistent spatial contextual associations or other statistical regularities. Here, we tested how different types of associations guide learning and the utilisation of established memories for different purposes. Participants learned contextual associations or rule-like statistical regularities that predicted target locations within different scenes. The consequences of this learning for subsequent performance were then evaluated on attention-orienting and memory-recall tasks. Participants demonstrated facilitated attention-orienting and recall performance based on both contextual associations and statistical regularities. Contextual associations facilitated attention orienting with a different time course compared to statistical regularities. Benefits to memory-recall performance depended on the alignment between the learned association or regularity and the recall demands. The distinct patterns of behavioural facilitation by contextual associations and statistical regularities show how different forms of long-term memory may influence neural information processing through different modulatory mechanisms.
Inhibition of CCl4-induced liver inflammation and fibrosis by a NEU3 inhibitor
Authors: Pilling Darrell , Martinez Trevor C. , Gomer Richard H.
Published: November 2024

Sialic acids are located on the ends of many glycoconjugates and are cleaved off by enzymes called sialidases (neuraminidases). Upregulation of neuraminidase 3 (NEU3) is associated with intestinal inflammation and colitis, neuroinflammation, and lung fibrosis. Genetic ablation of NEU3 or pharmacological inhibition of NEU3 reduces lung fibrosis in mice. To determine if inhibiting NEU3 can inhibit liver fibrosis in the commonly-used CCl4 model, in this report, we examined the effects of injections of the NEU3 inhibitor 2-acetyl pyridine (2AP). 2AP inhibited CCl4-induced weight loss in female but not male mice. 2AP attenuated CCl4-induced liver inflammation and fibrosis in male and female mice, but did not affect CCl4-induced steatosis. After CCl4 treatment, female but not male mice had significant increases in liver neutrophils, and 2AP attenuated this response. 2AP also reversed CCl4-induced liver desialylation and CCl4-induced increased expression of NEU3. Patients with pulmonary fibrosis have increased desialylation of some serum proteins, and elevated serum levels of NEU3. We find that sera from patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have elevated desialylation of a serum protein and patients with NAFLD have increased levels of NEU3. These data suggest that elevated levels of NEU3 may be associated with liver inflammation and fibrosis, and that in mice this is ameliorated by injections of a NEU3 inhibitor.
An improved trajectory tracking control of quadcopter using a novel Sliding Mode Control with Fuzzy PID Surface
Authors: Gedefaw Elisabeth Andarge , Abdissa Chala Merga , Lemma Lebsework Negash
Published: November 2024

This paper presents Super Twisting Sliding Mode Control with a novel Fuzzy PID Surface for improved trajectory tracking of quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles under external disturbances. First, quadrotor dynamic model with six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) is developed using Newton-Euler Method. Then, a robust Sliding Mode Control based on a new Fuzzy PID Surface is designed to be capable of automatically adjusting its gain parameters. The proposed SMC controller applies super twisting algorithm with PID surface to reduce chattering and a fuzzy logic controller to automatically adjust the gain parameters in order to enhance robustness. Furthermore, the solution to stability has been given by the Lyapunov method. The controller’s performance is tested through various trajectories, parameter variations, and disturbance scenarios, comparing it with recent alternatives such as Sliding Mode Control, Fuzzy Sliding Mode Control, and Fuzzy Super Twisting Sliding Mode Control using numerical simulations. The simulation results show that the proposed controller has better tracking performance, parameter variation handling, and disturbance rejection capability compared with the aforementioned controllers. Additionally, the control efforts of the proposed method are minimal and smooth, proving it to be an economically feasible controller and operationally safe for the quadrotor.
Perception, regulation, and effects on longevity of pollen fatty acids in the honey bee, Apis mellifera
Authors: Schleifer Marielle C. , Ruedenauer Fabian A. , Ziegler Johanna , Leonhardt Sara D. , Spaethe Johannes
Published: November 2024

For successful cross-pollination, most flowering plants rely on insects as pollinators and attract them by offering rewards, predominantly nectar and pollen. Bees–a highly important pollinator group—are especially dependent on pollen as their main source of essential nutrients, including proteins, lipids, and sterols. Fatty acids (FAs) in particular play a pivotal role as fundamental energy source, contributing to membrane structure integrity, cellular homeostasis, and cognitive processes. However, overconsumption of FAs can have detrimental effects on fitness and survival. Thus, bees need to precisely modulate FA intake. To better understand how Apis mellifera, the globally predominant managed pollinator, regulate FA intake, we conducted controlled feeding experiments with newly hatched honey bee workers by providing pollen with different FA concentrations. We additionally investigated the honey bee’s capacity to perceive individual FAs by means of chemotactile proboscis extension response (PER) conditioning. We tested both natural concentrations and concentrations exceeding those typically found in pollen. Given the dose-dependent importance of FAs observed in other bee species, we hypothesized that (i) a high FA concentration in pollen would reduce honey bee longevity, and (ii) honey bees are able to perceive individual FAs and differentiate between different FA concentrations via antennal sensation prior to consumption. Our study revealed that elevated FA concentrations in pollen resulted in reduced consumption rates and increased mortality in Apis mellifera. Workers can detect and discriminate between saturated and unsaturated FAs utilizing their antennae. Moreover, they were able to distinguish between individual FAs and also between different concentrations of the same FAs. Our results suggest a high sensitivity of A. mellifera towards both the concentration and composition of individual FAs, which greatly impacts their foraging decisions and fitness. These insights contribute to the growing evidence highlighting the importance of balanced nutrient ratios, in particular of FAs, for bees and other organisms.
Tissue-specific and functional loci analysis of CASP14 gene in the sheep horn
Authors: Lu Xiaoning , Zhang Guoqing , Yang Hao , Shan Mingzhu , Zhang Xiaoxu , Wang Yuqin , Bai Junyan , Pan Zhangyuan
Published: November 2024

Under the current context of intensive farming, small-horned animals are more suitable for large-scale breeding. The CASP14 gene, closely associated with skin and keratin formation, may influence horn size due to its link with skin development. This study comprehensively analyzed the tissue-specific expression of CASP14 using RNA-Seq data, identified functional sites through whole-genome sequencing (WGS), and investigated allele-specific expression (ASE) validated by KASP assays. Results showed significantly higher CASP14 expression in the scurred group com-pared to the SHE group, with pronounced expression in the skin. Interbreed comparisons also revealed elevated CASP14 levels in the scurred group. Analysis of potential functional sites indicated structural similarities in the CASP14 protein among horned mammals. Five ASE events were discovered, and intersecting these with SNPs and high fixation index loci (Fst > 0.05) identified three potential functional sites: 7941628, 7941817, and 7941830. The SNP site 7944295 was selected for T-test analysis and further validated through KASP assays, corroborating the role of CASP14 in sheep horn phenotypes. Our findings suggest that CASP14 plays a significant role in horn development, offering insights into breeding strategies for small-horned animals.
Modeling the health and economic implications of adopting a 1-dose 9-valent human papillomavirus vaccination program in adolescents in low/middle-income countries: An analysis of Indonesia
Authors: Daniels Vincent , Saxena Kunal , Patterson-Lomba Oscar , Gomez-Lievano Andres , At Thobari Jarir , Durand Nancy , Myers Evan
Published: November 2024

Background

Recent evidence suggests that 1 dose of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine may have similar effectiveness in reducing HPV infection risk compared to 2 or 3 doses.

Objective

To evaluate the public health impact and cost-effectiveness of implementing a 1-dose or a 2-dose program of the 9-valent HPV vaccine in a low- and middle-income country (LMIC).

Methods

We adapted a dynamic transmission model to the Indonesia setting, and conducted a probabilistic sensitivity analysis using distributions reflecting the uncertainty in levels and durability of protection of a 1-dose that were estimated under a Bayesian framework incorporating 3-year vaccine efficacy data from the KEN SHE trial (base-case) and 10 year effectiveness data from the India IARC study (alternative analysis). Scenarios included different coverage levels targeted at girls-only, or girls and boys. Costs and benefits were computed over 100 years from a national single-payer perspective.

Results

Depending on the coverage and target population, the median number of cancer cases avoided in 2-dose programs ranged between 600,000–2,100,000, compared to 200,000–600,000 in 1-dose programs. The 1-dose programs are unlikely to be cost-effective compared to 2-dose programs even at low willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds. The girls-only 2-dose program tends to be cost-effective at lower WTP thresholds, particularly in scenarios with high coverage, dose price and discount rate, while the girls and boys 2-dose program is cost-effective at higher WTP thresholds. In the alternative analysis, 1-dose programs have higher probability of being cost-effective compared to the base-case, particularly for low WTP thresholds (less than 0.5 GDP) and for high coverage, dose price and discount rate.

Conclusion

Adoption of 1-dose programs with 9-valent vaccine in an LMIC resulted in more vaccine-preventable HPV-related cancer cases than 2-dose programs. The 2-dose programs were more likely to be cost-effective than 1-dose programs for a wide range of WTP thresholds and scenarios.
Screening and treatment practices for iron deficiency in anaemic pregnant women: A cross-sectional survey of healthcare workers in Nigeria
Authors: Babah Ochuwa Adiketu , Beňová Lenka , Hanson Claudia , Abioye Ajibola Ibraheem , Larsson Elin C. , Afolabi Bosede Bukola
Published: November 2024

Background

Iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy is a significant contributor to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality globally. Despite international and national guidelines for its screening and treatment, knowledge and prescription practices of healthcare providers vary.

Aim

To determine maternal healthcare workers’ screening and treatment practices for iron deficiency in anaemic pregnancy women in two states in Nigeria.

Methodology

This cross-sectional study sampled maternal healthcare workers from 84 randomly selected public health facilities in Lagos and Kano States. Data on methods of diagnosis and prescription practices for iron deficiency anaemia were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Means and percentages were reported using probability weights, and a comparison of practices of anaemia treatment between doctors and nurses/midwives was done using Chi-square test or Fishers exact.

Results

Of the 467 maternal healthcare workers surveyed (232 from Lagos, 235 from Kano), 40.0% were doctors, 54.0% nurses or midwives and 6.0% community health extension workers. In the sample, 27.6% always and 58.7% sometimes screened anaemic pregnant women for iron deficiency; among these, 84.7% screened using complete blood count. Oral iron for treatment of iron deficiency anaemia was prescribed by 96.9%. Intravenous iron for treatment was prescribed by 30.2%, but by only by 18.6% as first-line drug (as iron dextran by 69.3% and as iron sucrose by 31.5% of intravenous iron prescribers). Commonest reasons for low usage of intravenous iron were cost and need for venepuncture. Fifty-three percent of maternal healthcare workers’ prescribed iron supplements for anaemia during concomitant infection, with the prescription practice similar among doctors versus nurse/midwives (p = 0.074).

Conclusion

We found suboptimal levels of screening for iron deficiency among anaemic pregnant women. Iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy is almost exclusively treated with oral iron by maternal healthcare workers in the two Nigerian states, similarly between doctors and nurses/midwives. Further research into potential reasons for low screening for iron deficiency and low use of intravenous iron are needed.
Factor productivity impacts of climate change and estimating the technical efficiency of cereal crop yields: Evidence from sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: Alemu Ferede Mengistie , Mengistu Yismaw Ayelign , Wassie Asmamaw Getnet
Published: November 2024

The world aims to ensure environmental sustainability and consolidate agricultural factor productivity, yet the excruciating impact of climate change coincides and remains a persistent threat. Therefore, the study aims to estimate the technical efficiency of cereal crop yields and investigate the impacts of climate change on agricultural factor productivity. For this purpose, panel data from 35 sub-Saharan African countries between 2005 and 2020 was employed. For analysis, the pooled OLS and stochastic frontier models were employed. The results revealed that in the region, the average efficiency score for producing cereal crops between 2005 and 2020 was 83%. The stochastic frontier model results showed that labour contributed 51.5% and fertilizer contributed 5.7% to raising the technical efficiency of cereal crop yields, whereas arable land per hectare reduced the technical efficiency of cereal yields by 44.7%. The pooled OLS regression result showed that climate change proxies (CO2 and methane emissions) diminish land, labour, and fertilizers productivity at a 1% significance level, whereas GDP per capita boosts significantly the total factor productivity in agriculture. This confirmed how climate change reduced land, labour, and fertilizer input productivity. The results concluded that the region had a high level of technical efficiency; of which labour and fertilizer inputs contributed the largest share; however, their productivity has dwindled due to climate change. To increase cereal crop yield efficiency and limit the adverse effects of climate change on agricultural input productivity, the region should combine skilled and trained labour and fertilizer with sophisticated agriculture technologies, as well as adopt climate resistance technologies (weather- resistant variety seed and planting revolution mechanisms).
Bacterial contamination of sterile angiographic work environments during animal studies
Authors: Franz Christiane , Bender Lara , Sichtermann Thorsten , Minkenberg Jan , Stockero Andrea , Dorn Christoph , Yousefi Farzaneh , Hasan Dimah , Schmiech Manuela , May Rebecca , Honecker Sophia , Lemmen Sebastian , Nikoubashman Omid , Wiesmann Martin , Ridwan Hani
Published: November 2024

Bacterial contamination of angiographic materials and fluids has been shown to occur during human angiographic procedures. Angiographic examinations and experiments must be performed under sterile conditions to avoid complications due to contamination and possible subsequent infections. However, data regarding the frequency and the clinical consequences are limited. Our aim was to investigate the incidence of bacterial contamination during experimental angiographies. We tested angiographic fluids, syringes and endovascular materials from the angiographic supply tables for bacterial contamination, collecting 252 samples during 18 experimental angiographies in pigs. After sterile filtration, samples were cultured on media, and individual colony-forming units were identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry. Contamination was detected in the majority of samples (60%). There was no angiography in which all samples remained sterile. The highest contamination rates (94%) were found in fluids from the working bowls and on the outer surface of syringes (85%) at the end of angiography. At this time, working bowls were significantly more frequently and extensively contaminated than the control bowls. Among the samples, the frequency and extent of contamination increased with the duration of the experimental angiographic procedures. Our findings show that bacterial contamination during angiography is common and the manipulation of endovascular working materials as well as the duration of angiographic procedures both increase bacterial contamination. While the clinical impact on the laboratory animal remains unclear, the quality of biomedical research mandates that efforts to minimize bacterial contamination should be taken as far as possible.
The nhppp package for simulating non-homogeneous Poisson point processes in R
Authors: Trikalinos Thomas A. , Sereda Yuliia
Published: November 2024

We introduce the nhppp package for simulating events from one dimensional non-homogeneous Poisson point processes (NHPPPs) in R fast and with a small memory footprint. We developed it to facilitate the sampling of event times in discrete event and statistical simulations. The package’s functions are based on three algorithms that provably sample from a target NHPPP: the time-transformation of a homogeneous Poisson process (of intensity one) via the inverse of the integrated intensity function; the generation of a Poisson number of order statistics from a fixed density function; and the thinning of a majorizing NHPPP via an acceptance-rejection scheme. We present a study of numerical accuracy and time performance of the algorithms. We illustrate use with simple reproducible examples.
Predator gaze captures both human and chimpanzee attention
Authors: Whitham Will , Karstadt Bradley , Anderson Nicola C. , Bischof Walter F. , Schapiro Steven J. , Kingstone Alan , Coss Richard , Birmingham Elina , Yorzinski Jessica L.
Published: November 2024

Primates can rapidly detect potential predators and modify their behavior based on the level of risk. The gaze direction of predators is one feature that primates can use to assess risk levels: recognition of a predator’s direct stare indicates to prey that it has been detected and the level of risk is relatively high. Predation has likely shaped visual attention in primates to quickly assess the level of risk but we know little about the constellation of low-level (e.g., contrast, color) and higher-order (e.g., category membership, perceived threat) visual features that primates use to do so. We therefore presented human and chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) participants with photographs of potential predators (lions) and prey (impala) while we recorded their overt attention with an eye-tracker. The gaze of the predators and prey was either directed or averted. We found that both humans and chimpanzees visually fixated the eyes of predators more than those of prey. In addition, they directed the most attention toward the eyes of directed (rather than averted) predators. Humans, but not chimpanzees, gazed at the eyes of the predators and prey more than other features. Importantly, low-level visual features of the predators and prey did not provide a good explanation of the observed gaze patterns.
Prediction of breast cancer Invasive Disease Events using transfer learning on clinical data as image-form
Authors: Fanizzi Annarita , Bove Samantha , Comes Maria Colomba , Di Benedetto Erika Francesca , Latorre Agnese , Giotta Francesco , Nardone Annalisa , Rizzo Alessandro , Soranno Clara , Zito Alfredo , Massafra Raffaella
Published: November 2024

Background and objective

Detecting patients at high risk of occurrence of an Invasive Disease Event after a first diagnosis of breast cancer, such as recurrence, distant metastasis, contralateral tumor and second tumor, could support clinical decision-making processes in the treatment of this malignancy. Though several machine learning models analyzing both clinical and histopathological information have been developed in literature to address this task, these approaches turned out to be unsuitable for describing this problem.

Methods

In this study, we designed a novel artificial intelligence-based approach which converts clinical information into an image-form to be analyzed through Convolutional Neural Networks. Specifically, we predicted the occurrence of an Invasive Disease Event at both 5-year and 10-year follow-ups of 696 female patients with a first invasive breast cancer diagnosis enrolled at IRCCS “Giovanni Paolo II” in Bari, Italy. After transforming each patient, represented by a vector of clinical information, to an image form, we extracted low-level quantitative imaging features by means of a pre-trained Convolutional Neural Network, namely, AlexNET. Then, we classified breast cancer patients in the two classes, namely, Invasive Disease Event and non-Invasive Disease Event, via a Support Vector Machine classifier trained on a subset of significative features previously identified.

Results

Both 5-year and 10-year models resulted particularly accurate in predicting breast cancer recurrence event, achieving an AUC value of 92.07% and 92.84%, an accuracy of 88.71% and 88.82%, a sensitivity of 86.83% and 88.06%, a specificity of 89.55% and 89.3%, a precision of 71.93% and 84.82%, respectively.

Conclusions

This is the first study proposing an approach which converts clinical information into an image-form to develop a decision support system for identifying patients at high risk of occurrence of an Invasive Disease Event, and then defining personalized oncological therapeutic treatments for breast cancer patients.
Immune complex deposition promotes NK cell accumulation in the kidney
Authors: De la Cruz Abigail , Garcés Marco , Larios Emiliano , Madera-Salcedo Iris K. , Crispín José C. , Rosetti Florencia
Published: November 2024

In systemic lupus erythematosus, immune complexes deposited in the kidney vasculature represent a potent inflammatory trigger with a high potential to progress to glomerulonephritis and organ failure. These immune complexes can be recognized by multiple effector cells via complement and Fcγ receptors. The transcriptome of CD16-bearing NK cells has been documented in kidneys from patients with SLE. In this study, we show that NK cells accumulate in the kidney in response to immune complex deposition and modulate the behavior of local T cells. Depletion of NK cells transiently ameliorated disease, suggesting NK cells may play a role in lupus nephritis and other immune complex-mediated conditions.
Negative effects of lifespan extending intervention on resilience in mice
Authors: Corder Katelynn M. , Hoffman Jessica M. , Sogorovic Anamarija , Yang Youfeng , Banerjee Anisha , Sun Yi , Stout Michael B. , Austad Steven N.
Published: November 2024

One key goal of basic aging research is the development of reliable assays of both current and future health. These assays could dramatically accelerate progress toward developing health-extending interventions by obviating the need for full lifespan studies, especially if they were informative relatively early in life. One potential approach is the assessment of physiological resilience, defined as the ability to recover from an adverse event. Here, using CB6F1 mice, we evaluated four potential resilience assays, each quantifying recovery from a physiological challenge with clear relevance to humans. The challenges were: (1) anesthesia recovery, (2) restoration of hemoglobin levels after a blood draw, (3) speed of wound healing, and (4) survival after pathogen exposure. We evaluated how each changed with age and with interventions known to extend health in males only (17α-estradiol) or both sexes (calorie restriction). We found that three of the four (recovery from anesthesia, blood draw, and pathogen exposure) showed significant and expected age effects, but wound healing did not. None of the three age-sensitive assays responded to the health-extending interventions in the way we expected, and for some assays, including anesthesia response, interventions actually worsened outcomes. Possible explanations are: (1) our interventions were too brief, (2) the ages we evaluated were too young, (3) our assays did not capture important features of organismal resilience, or (4) organismal resilience is not as clearly related to current or future health as hypothesized. Future studies are needed to determine which of these interpretations is valid and to determine whether other resilience metrics may be more informative about current and future health.
Rheological properties of polyether polyurethane rubber based magnetorheological elastomers under transverse shear and vertical pressure
Authors: Li RunPu , Guo Fei , Du Chengbin , Gu Jiming
Published: November 2024

A novel magnetorheological vibration isolator with two operating conditions, horizontal shear and vertical compression, was designed and manufactured. The rheological properties of the energy-dissipating material were directly related to the volume fraction of iron powder in the laminated working unit of the magnetorheological vibration isolator. Aggregation of the carbonyl iron powder (CIP) strongly influenced on the rheological properties of the magnetorheological vibration isolator. Considered that the curing temperature affected the preparation process, polyurethane rubber was selected as the collective matrix of the magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) because of its wear resistance, good adhesion, high strength, corrosion resistance and solvent resistance. The dynamic properties of the polyurethane rubber MREs were experimentally characterised. A mathematical model was established for the magnetic induction effect (MIE) of the polyurethane magnetorheological isolator in a transverse shear deformation mode as well as a vertical tension and compression deformation mode. The magnetorheological effect was strongest under transverse shear deformation for an effective volume fraction of particles of 34% because of the effect of aggregation of the iron powder particles. The magnetic compression modulus depended strongly on the strain under vertical compression.
ABO-identical versus incompatible platelet transfusion in patients with intracranial hemorrhage
Authors: Dunn Lauren K. , Venner Emily , Nguyen Matthew , Trejo Jose Perdomo , Holley Zachary , Naik Bhiken I. , Khan Jenna , Mazzeffi Michael
Published: November 2024

Background

Patients with spontaneous and traumatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) are frequently transfused platelets to treat thrombocytopenia, platelet function defects, and reverse antiplatelet drugs. ABO-identical platelet transfusion has been suggested to lead to higher post-transfusion platelet increments compared to major-ABO incompatible transfusion. We hypothesized that patients who received ABO-identical transfusion would have higher post-transfusion platelet increments and superior neurologic outcomes.

Methods

Adults with traumatic or non-traumatic ICH from January 1st 2018 to December 31st 2022 were identified using electronic medical records and international classification of disease (ICD)-10 codes. Patients were excluded if they lacked a platelet count within 24 hours before and within 24 hours after transfusion or if they received multiple platelet transfusions before their platelet count was remeasured. After stratification by ABO-identical, ABO-major incompatible, and ABO-minor incompatible transfusion, post transfusion increments were compared, as were clinical outcomes.

Results

Among 167 patients who received platelet transfusion, 76 (45.5%) received ABO-identical transfusion, 54 (32.3%) received ABO-major incompatible transfusion, and 37 (22.2%) received ABO-minor incompatible transfusion. There were no significant differences in absolute platelet increment between groups. The median increment was 7x109/L for ABO-identical platelets, 10x109/L for ABO-major incompatible platelets, and 11x109/L for ABO-minor incompatible platelets, p = .87. There was no significant difference in the percentage of patients discharged alive with modified Rankin score of 1 or 2 or cerebral performance category 1 or 2 between groups (p = .56 and .39 respectively). After adjusting for confounders in a general linear model there remained no associations between ABO compatibility and platelet increment after transfusion.

Conclusions

Our data support similar efficacy for ABO-identical and ABO-incompatible platelet transfusion in patients with ICH.
Protocol: A mixed-methods study to evaluate implementation and outcomes of U.S. state telemental health policy expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Leung Lucinda B. , Santos Jasmeen J. , Escarce José J. , Ettner Susan L. , Der-Martirosian Claudia , Raja Pushpa , McCourt Alexander D. , Fortney John , McGinty Emma E.
Published: November 2024

Background

Until the COVID-19 pandemic, it had not been possible to examine the effect of rapid policy changes surrounding telemental health on patient-reported mental health care access, costs, symptoms, and functioning. Sizable variation in telemental health use by patient race-ethnicity, age, and rurality, and in its adoption across healthcare settings, underscores the need to study equitable dissemination and implementation of high-quality telemental health services in the real world. This protocol describes an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study that aims to examine the effects of state telemental health policy expansion on patient-reported mental health outcomes, as well as the policy-to-practice pathway from the perspectives of state leaders, clinicians, and staff who care for underserved patients.

Methods

This study uses legal mapping research methods to characterize the effective dates and specific provisions of telemental health policies (e.g., Medicaid reimbursement, private payer laws, professional licensure requirements) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. Then, we will examine state factors (e.g., COVID-19 cases, broadband internet access) explaining these telemental health policies using discrete-time hazard models. The primary quantitative analysis employs a difference-in-difference approach to predict effects on outcome measures using a nationally representative survey of individuals. Using the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, we will examine policy effects on (a) access to, use of, and expenditures related to mental health care and (b) mental health outcomes, functioning, and employment. Finally, qualitative methods will be used to obtain feedback from state leaders, administrators, clinicians, and clinic staff members on how state telemental health policy expansion influenced mental health services delivery during the pandemic, with a focus on improving safety-net care. We will use a positive deviance approach to select key partners from 6 “high” and 6 “low” telehealth expansion states for interviews and focus groups.

Discussion

The overall study goal is to better understand the effect of pandemic-related state policy changes around telehealth on patient-reported mental health care access, costs, symptoms, and functioning. By characterizing variations in telehealth policies and their downstream effects, this mixed-methods study aims to inform equitable dissemination, implementation, and sustainment of high-quality telemental health services.
The association between systemic immune-inflammation index and prostate-specific antigen: Results from NHANES 2003–2010
Authors: Tang Zhongqiu , Li Shaojie , Zeng Mengjun , Zeng Lu , Tang Zhaohui
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Current research has not extensively explored the correlation between Systemic Inflammatory Index (SII) and prostate-specific antibody (PSA) levels. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the SII and PSA levels in American males aged > 40 years without prostate cancer.

Methods

Data were obtained from the 2003–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Patients without complete SII or PSA data were excluded. Multiple linear regression models were used to investigate the possibility of a linear association between the SII and PSA levels. Fitted smoothed curves and threshold effect analyses were used to characterize the nonlinear relationships.

Results

The study included 5982 male participants over the age of 40 years from the United States. The average SII (mean ± standard deviation) was 562.78 ± 355.60. The mean value of PSA was 1.85 ± 3.24. The results showed that SII exhibited a positive correlation with PSA (β = 0.0005, 95% CI: (0.0002, 0.0007)), and an interaction test indicated that the effects of age, body mass index, hypertension, and diabetes were not significant for this positive correlation between SII and PSA (all P > 0.05). We discovered an inverted U-shaped connection between the SII and PSA with a turning point (K) of 1168.18 by using a two-segment linear regression model. To the left of the turning point, there was a positive connection between SII and PSA (β = 0.0009,95% CI: (0.0006, 0.0012); P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

In the population of men over 40 years old without prostate cancer, SII and PSA exhibited a non-linear relationship. Specifically, there was a positive correlation between SII and PSA levels when the SII value was < 1168.18.
Reference values for respiratory muscle strength and maximal voluntary ventilation in the Brazilian adult population: A multicentric study
Authors: Araújo Palomma Russelly Saldanha , Fonseca Jéssica Danielle Medeiros da , Marcelino Ana Aline , Moreno Marlene Aparecida , Dornelas de Andrade Arméle de Fátima , Yañez Matias Otto , Torres-Castro Rodrigo , Resqueti Vanessa Regiane , Fregonezi Guilherme Augusto de Freitas
Published: November 2024

Aim

To determine reference values and propose prediction equations for respiratory muscle strength, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), and endurance by means of maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) in healthy Brazilian adults.

Methods

Anthropometric data, level of physical activity, pulmonary function, and respiratory muscle strength and maximal voluntary ventilation of 243 participants (111 men and 132 women) aged 20 to 80 years were assessed at three cities in the southeast and northeast region of Brazil.

Results

Mean maximal respiratory pressures and MVV were higher in men (MIP = 111.0 ± 28.0; MEP = 149.6 ± 40.3; MVV = 150.6 ± 35.2) than in women (MIP = 87.9 ± 17.6; MEP = 106.7 ± 25.2; MVV = 103.4 ± 23.2; all p < 0.05). Based on regression models, the following prediction equations were proposed for men: MIP = 137–0.57 (age), R2 = 0.13, standard error of estimate (SEE) = 26.11; MEP = 179.9–0.67 x (age), R2 = 0.08, SEE = 38.54; and MVV = 206.3–1.18 x (age), R2 = 0.36, SEE = 28.08. Prediction equations were also proposed for women: MIP = 107.3–0.4 x (age), R2 = 0.16, SEE = 16.10; MEP = 127.4–0.43 x (age), R2 = 0.08, SEE = 24.09; and MVV = 146.3–0.86 x (age), R2 = 0.42, SEE = 17.56.

Conclusion

Reference values for MIP, MEP, and MVV were determined in healthy Brazilian adults. Results from different Brazilian regions provided adequate prediction equations considering an ethnically heterogeneous population.
The state of iodine deficiency in Kyrgyzstan: Insights from studies of knowledge, attitudes and practices
Authors: Chyngyshpaeva Yulia , Dzhaliev Zhokhongir , Derbishalieva Zhyparkul , Ibrahim Muiz , Lucero-Prisno Don Eliseo III , Dzhusupov Kenesh
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) regarding iodine deficiency among the population of Kyrgyzstan, with a focus on pregnant women, and to correlate these factors with the urinary iodine concentration (UIC).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using structured questionnaires and urine sample analysis to evaluate iodine status. A multistage stratified sampling method ensured a representative sample from both urban and rural areas. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics and KAP variables, whereas chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify predictors of KAP outcomes.

Results

The study included 690 participants, with balanced representation from both urban and rural areas. The mean knowledge score was moderate, with significant gaps in the understanding of iodine deficiency. The participants generally had positive attitudes toward iodine intake but exhibited suboptimal practices, especially in rural areas. Pregnant women demonstrated greater knowledge, but fewer practical behaviors related to iodine intake. Compared with rural participants, urban participants had higher UIC levels, indicating better iodine nutrition. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that residence, knowledge, attitudes, and practices significantly influenced UIC levels.

Conclusion

Despite existing iodization programs, significant gaps remain in the knowledge and practices related to iodine intake, particularly in rural areas. This study highlights the need for targeted public health interventions to improve iodine nutrition and reduce the burden of iodine deficiency disorders in Kyrgyzstan. Enhancing public health education, improving the accessibility and affordability of iodized salt, and regularly monitoring the iodine status are essential strategies for addressing these issues.
Socioeconomic inequalities in the prevalence, non-awareness, non-treatment, and non-control of diabetes among South Korean adults in 2021
Authors: Kim Seongju , Kim Dong Jun , Lee Hooyeon
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate socioeconomic inequalities in diabetes prevalence, non-awareness, non-treatment, and non-control among South Korean adults in 2021. This cross-sectional study used data from the 2021 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Relative concentration indices (RCIs) and relative concentration curves stratified by sex and age were used to investigate socioeconomic inequalities in the prevalence, non-awareness, non-treatment, and non-control of diabetes. The prevalence, non-awareness, lack of treatment, and non-control rates in adults aged 30 years and older in 2021 were 15.9%, 29.5%, 33.3%, and 76.1%, respectively. Diabetes was more prevalent in participants under the age of 65 years than those aged 65 years and older for both men (RCI: -0.081, RCI: -0.158, respectively) and women (RCI: -0.203, RCI: -0.292, respectively). The larger the absolute value of the RCI in non-awareness and non-treatment of diabetes in women, the greater the level of socioeconomic inequalities (RCI: 0.182, RCI: 0.154). Socioeconomic inequalities existed in the prevalence of diabetes among both men and women aged under 65 years. In women, socioeconomic inequalities of non-awareness and non-treatment of diabetes were greater than those in men. Thus, preventive care and monitoring are required, particularly among women and individuals under the age of 65 years.
RNA quality and protamine gene expression after storage of mouse testes under different conditions
Authors: Latorre Nerea , Dorda Beatriz A. , Rey Isabel , Roldan Eduardo R. S. , Sanchez-Rodriguez Ana
Published: November 2024

Protamines are proteins responsible for condensing sperm chromatin. There are two protamines whose ratio remains constant in each species and which is related to fertility. To quantify their expression, it is necessary to have a good protocol of sample collection (i.e., RNA stabilizing buffers and temperature conditions). The aim of this work was to compare gene expression of protamines, with analysis of RNA quality and ratios, in testis samples from wild-derived mice, Mus musculus, preserved in different buffers (RNAlater® or Nucleic Acid Preservation–NAP–buffer) and different temperatures (room temperature -RT-, 4°C, -20°C, -80°C or liquid nitrogen) for different times (one week, one month, 3 months and one year). The relative abundance of protamine expression was assessed by qPCR using 18S rRNA as housekeeping. The results showed that the preservation of testes in RNAlater® or NAP buffer at -80°C afforded equivalent good preservation as in somatic tissues. Testis samples stored at RT in both buffers for 1 week resulted in a similar RNA quality and protamine expression over time. Moreover, samples in RNAlater® stored at RT, 4°C, -20°C and -80°C, were analyzed after 24 h, 7 days, 30 days, 90 days or 365 days; samples stored at RT resulted in a loss of RNA quality but protamine ratio was maintained up to 90 days. Samples stored at 4°C and -20°C showed similar values of RNA integrity and protamine expression than those stored at -80°C. Finally, we stored testis samples at -80°C or -196°C, after initial snap-freezing in liquid nitrogen. Both methods afforded very good preservation of RNA integrity and protamine expression. These results open new possibilities for the collection, transport and storage of testes samples under field conditions.
A cryptic promoter in the exon of HKR1 drives expression of a truncated form of Hkr1 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Kondo Toshihiro , Hosokawa Yuna , Ozawa Ryotaro , Kasahara Shin
Published: November 2024

Hansenula mrakii killer toxin resistant gene 1 (HKR1) is an intronless, single-exon gene that encodes Hkr1, the signaling mucin of the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. HKR1 overexpression confers S. cerevisiae cells with resistance to the HM-1 killer toxin produced by the killer yeast Hansenula mrakii (currently known as Cyberlindnera mrakii). Hkr1 comprises multiple functional domains and participates in several signal transduction pathways, including the high-osmolarity glycerol (HOG) pathway, the cell wall integrity (CWI) mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway, and the filamentation MAP kinase pathway; Hkr1 also controls bud-site selection. In this study, we identified a cryptic promoter in the HKR1 exon that regulates the transcription of a shorter transcript encoding a truncated form of Hkr1. This shorter protein still conferred resistance to the HM-1 killer toxin, suggesting that this cryptic promoter helps carry out Hkr1-mediated signal transduction efficiently by producing a specific Hkr1 domain with functions as a signaling messenger. Notably, reporter assays using the fluorescent protein gene mUkG1 and the β-galactosidase gene lacZ revealed that the transcriptional activity of this cryptic promoter was modulated by its upstream sequence within the single exon. Hkr1 thus differs from other signaling mucins, whose active C-terminal fragments are generated by post-translational processing, whereas the active C-terminal fragment of Hkr1 is generated by transcription from the exonic promoter. These findings describe a previously unknown example of functional diversification from a single gene, especially for a gene encoding a multidomain, multifunctional protein such as Hkr1.
Trophic transfer and bioaccumulation of nanoplastics in Coryphaena hippurus (mahi-mahi) and effect of depuration
Authors: Dey Preyojon , Bradley Terence M. , Boymelgreen Alicia
Published: November 2024

Ocean plastic pollution is a global concern, exacerbated by the distinctive physiochemical characteristics of nanoplastics (NPs), making it crucial to study the impacts on marine animals, particularly fish, given their ecological and economic importance. Both trophic transfer and waterborne exposure are potential modes of NP entry into seafood for human consumption Although the majority of studies have focused on in-vitro impacts of NP exposure in fish, in-vivo methods can offer a more holistic understanding of these impacts. This study investigates polystyrene NP transfer to Coryphaena hippurus (mahi-mahi) larvae, a widely consumed fish and significant marine predator, during the early life stage. Brachionus plicatilis (rotifers) were exposed to NPs, and subsequently fed to C. hippurus larvae, with exposure duration ranging from 24 to 96 h. Significant NP transfer was observed via the food chain, varying with exposure duration. A depuration study over 72 h, simulating intermittent NP exposure, revealed substantial NP excretion but also notable retention in the larvae. Biodistribution analysis indicated that most NPs accumulated in the gut, with a significant portion remaining post-depuration and some translocating to other body areas containing vital organs like the heart, liver, and gall bladder. Despite no significant effects on body length and eye diameter during this short study period, histopathological analysis revealed intestinal tissue damage in the larvae. Overall, this study provides valuable insight into the trophic transfer of NPs in marine food webs, emphasizing the need for further research on ecological impacts and highlighting the importance of addressing NP contamination to protect marine ecosystems and food safety.