bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Estimation of Resistivity of Poka Alluvial Plain Material by Geoelectric Method with Wenner-Schlumberger Configuration
Authors: Latupapua Andrias Izaac , Tahapary Fahrul Dadan , Soplanit Rudy
Published: October 2023

This study was conducted to determine the lateral and vertical distribution of material resistivity values on Poka alluvial plain using electrodes with Wenner-Schlumberger configuration. Mapping is carried out on 2 lines each 120 m long with the smallest space of 10 m. The results showed that the resistivity of the material ranged from 48.8 Ωm to 2.247 Ωm spread laterally with a depth of up to 26.2 m. Loose Sand material occupies the upper layer, followed by the Alluvium and Sand layers in the middle, and Sand and Water which are unconfined aquifers in the lower layer.
Perception of Faculty Regarding Proposed New Accreditation Norms by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
Authors: Kumar Atul , Gawande Amol , Kristiawan Muhammad , Finthariasari Meilaty , Viona Elsa , Tank Mayank , Gupta Daksh
Published: October 2023

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 underscores the importance of accreditation and introduces the “National Accreditation Council” as its overarching body. The NEP envisions a 15-year phased approach, emphasising graded accreditation and institutional autonomy, aiming for all higher education establishments in India to evolve into self-governing entities focused on innovation and excellence. The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has formulated new guidelines, enabling universities and colleges operational for at least one academic year to apply for provisional accreditation. These guidelines intend to widen the scope of accreditation. Unlike the previous requirement that mandated institutions to be at least six years old or to have graduated two student cohorts for NAAC application, the new approach led to a limited number of institutions seeking accreditation due to low application rates. This article examines the viewpoints of 400 faculty members from Higher Educational Institutions in Maharashtra on whether the proposed norms will enhance the quality standards of these institutions. The faculty members collectively believe that the anticipated norms are unlikely to improve the existing quality standards of Higher Educational Institutions significantly.
Sacrifice and Satisfaction: Exploring The Quality of Life of Public Secondary School Volunteer Teachers in Remote Areas
Authors: Leon Maricris Bullon , Mokamad Romar F. , Almirante Jean F. , Mandado Aneve Y. , Barcenal ShaMyca E. , Salvadico John Lloyd , Salendab Rysa Lee Ann Ocariza , Salendab Fahad
Published: October 2023

This study explored the quality of life of selected secondary school volunteer teachers in the remote areas of the Schools Division of Sultan Kudarat. This qualitative study utilizes phenomenology as its method and used convenience sampling as the sampling technique. Six (6) volunteer teachers were the study's participants. Moreover, the study employed a semi-structured interview guide with open-ended questions, and the data were analyzed using Thematic Analysis.

Through thematic analysis, some emerging themes were extracted after an exhaustive and systematic process of thematic coding, analysis, and categorizations of the transcripts from the interview. Such themes include teachers' passion for teaching, enhancement of teachers' skills, teachers' psychological condition, qualifications, financial stability, long-distance travel, unsafe roadways, classroom management skills, faith, community linkages, classroom management skills, seminars and training, multi-talented teachers, and allowances.

This study concludes that volunteer teachers in remote areas need more financial stability. Some of the teachers have limited seminars and training attended. Although they show incredible resilience and courage, they cannot cope with the increasing daily expenses, and a positive outlook cannot buy even the necessities a teacher needs to sustain himself, their family, and even the teaching-learning process itself.

The study recommends that more be done to support and train volunteer teachers. Initiatives like professional development programs, access to teaching resources, provision of allowances and hazard pay, provision of plantilla positions in remote areas, and social support networks can go a long way in supporting volunteer teachers and improving education in remote areas.
Retirement: Keeping the Zeal for Teaching Aflame
Authors: Parinas Sherwin M.
Published: October 2023

This phenomenological inquiry intended to unearth the lived experiences of the retired faculty members on post retirement career. Previous studies had linked retirement with leisure, relaxation and benefit. However, this current study viewed it as an avenue to pursue a career as evidenced by twenty-one (21) retired teachers from basic to tertiary education in both public and private institutions.  The salient findings revealed that the preference to work after tenure was anchored from economic reasons, defying age, loss and fear of insignificance. As they were nearing the twilight, working for them meant making every tick count. Economic reason was also a factor as they found their pension too minimal an amount to purchase not only basic commodities but hospitalization and maintenance medicine as years went by. But seasoned as they were, they managed to jump over the hurdles by being optimistic and maintaining circle as support system like family and friends, above all, imploring the Divine Providence.  To lighten the plight, it was suggested that institutions may implement policies like seminars and training that could provide a better retirement preparation and transition to probable retirees.
Project FIERCE: Exploring the Students’ Perspective and Behavior towards Research Subject
Authors: Mapanoo Jerick E.
Published: October 2023

To support and achieve the goals and objectives of the Department of Education, the researcher conducted seminar entitled Project FIERCE. The main purpose of this research was to determine the students’ perspective and behavior towards research subject relative to the conduct of Project FIERCE. The study made use of the phenomenological type of qualitative approach, and the findings were drawn from semi-structured interviews. The nine (9) participants are all Senior High School students from New Taugtog National High School who completed and participated in three (3) - day seminar. Participants were asked about in what ways their perception and behavior regarding the research subject changed after participating in Project FIERCE seminar. It was found out that participants of the project FIERCE seminar gained knowledge and experience in research subjects, which resulted in a significant decrease in stress and a marked increase in confidence. This indicates the positive impact of Project FIERCE on research perspective and behavior.

This research further concluded through Project FIERCE seminar, the participants acknowledged that the tasks in research subject can still be difficult, but they felt more capable and ready to take on challenges. With this positive result, it may lead to the success of attaining K-12 goals and objectives.

Thus, it is highly recommended that the Department of Education should continue programs and policies that would support and provide seminars similar to Project FIERCE, which increase the perspection and behavior of students towards research subject.
Abstract 581: Impact Of Iron Deficiency Anemia On Venous Thromboembolic Diseases: A National Inpatient Sample Analysis
Authors: Nanavaty Dhairya , Sanghvi Ankushi , Patel Nishant , Singh Sohrab , Devarakonda Pradeep Kumar , Manoharan Suganya , Patibandla Saikrishna , Bhavsar dishang , Ayala Rodriguez Cesar , Reddy Sarath
Published: October 2023

Introduction:
Iron deficiency anemia has been associated with venous thromboembolic diseases however, there is paucity of data on the subject. We sought to assess this association using a national database.

Methods:
The National inpatient sample database 2018-2020 was queried to identify adult patients (age>18 yrs) with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Baseline risk factors and occurrence of venous thromboembolic diseases were compared between patients with and without IDA. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to assess the impact of IDA on VTE.

Results:
A total of 6417659 patients with IDA were identified with a mean age of 61 years. Patients with IDA had a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, tobacco abuse and obesity while they had a lower prevalence of hypertension. The occurrence of acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT), chronic DVT, acute pulmonary embolism (PE) and chronic PE was higher in patients with IDA than patients without (Table1). Multivariate regression analysis revealed a higher odds of developing acute DVT and acute PE in adult patients with IDA (Table 2).

Conclusion:
In sync with findings from a few other population studies, this analysis also reveals an association between IDA and VTE. Reactive thrombocytosis and elevated inflammatory markers have been proposed as few contributing factors. However, further research is warranted to prove these findings to aid prevent and treat VTE effectively.
Three new species of Polystichum (Dryopteridaceae) from Xizang, China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: QIU YONG-LING , YANG JIAN-JUN , ZHOU XIN-MAO , JU WEN-BIN , ZHANG LI-BING , HE ZHAO-RONG , ZHANG LIANG
Published: October 2023

Three new species of the shield fern genus, Polystichum sunhangii, P. wusugongii, and P. xinfeniae, were described based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species were discovered in Medog county, Xizang, at elevations ranging from 1200 to 2300 meters. The differences between each new species and their morphologically similar species were discussed. A phylogenetic analysis, based on five plastid markers, confirmed the recognition of the three new species in addition to their morphology.
Drosera maanyaa-gooljoo, a new species of Drosera section Arachnopus (Droseraceae) from the Buccaneer Archipelago and Yampi Peninsula, northwest Kimberley region, Western Australia
Authors: KRUEGER THILO , CROSS ADAM T. , RANGERS DAMBIMANGARI , FLEISCHMANN ANDREAS
Published: October 2023

Drosera maanyaa-gooljoo, a new annual species of Drosera section Arachnopus from the remote Buccaneer Archipelago and Yampi Peninsula in the northwest Kimberley region of Western Australia, is described and illustrated. Drosera maanyaa-gooljoo is a distinctive species that differs in morphology and indumentum from all previously known taxa of D. section Arachnopus. Comprehensive photo plates comparing all morphological details, as well as seed shape and structure, with those of the putatively related D. barrettiorum and D. hartmeyerorum are provided. Given D. maanyaa-gooljoo is only known from two small populations, a Priority One status under Conservation Codes for Western Australian Flora is recommended. Both populations occur within exclusive Native Title lands of the Dambimangari and Mayala Traditional Owners. This exciting new species discovery highlights the importance of both consultation with Indigenous people and herbarium revisions for alpha taxonomy and biodiversity research.
Rhoicosphenia johannessoniae (Bacillariophyceae), a new diatom from the Swedish coast of the Baltic Sea
Authors: AL-HANDAL ADIL Y. , LEVKOV ZLATKO , WULFF ANGELA
Published: October 2023

Rhoicosphenia is a relatively small diatom genus regarding the number of species and the genus is characterized by its wedge-shaped frustule and heterovalvar structure. It is one of the few genera that is distributed in both marine and freshwater habitats. Few species of Rhoicosphenia are known along the stretched Baltic Sea coast of Sweden. The present study describes a new epiphytic species of Rhoicosphenia from the brackish water of Grisslehamn in the northern part of the Baltic Sea. Rhoicosphenia johannessoniae sp. nov. appears closely related to R. baltica, but differs in having more elongated and protracted base pole, densely packed areolae and a central area located below the central part of the valve. Detailed descriptions of the species based on light and electron microscopy, as well as a comparison with related taxa, are provided. The present work is part of a larger project aiming to study the littoral diatoms of Sweden. The finding of this species, together with other species previously described within the project, will add to our knowledge of the diatom assemblages of the Baltic Sea which seems to have a richer flora than earlier anticipated.
Calea × crassa (Neurolaeneae: Asteraceae), a new nothospecies from Paraná state, Brazil
Authors: BUENO VINICIUS R. , CASSOL ANA P. V. , LEROY CAROLINA J. , BUENO MARCELO L. , HEIDEN GUSTAVO
Published: October 2023

Calea × crassa, a new nothospecies is described and illustrated. The thickened pale olivaceous leaf margins along with the mucronate teeth are unique morphological features shared with its parental species C. ilienii and C. monocephala. The nothospecies can be distinguished from C. ilienii by the concolorous leaves (vs. discolorous leaves), involucre 6-seriate (vs. 5-seriate), second series of phyllaries with foliaceous base (vs. scarious base), and bigger scales 1.8–1.9 mm long, when present (vs. 1–1.5 mm, when present). It is differentiated from C. monocephala by the third series of phyllaries with acuminate apex (vs. apiculate, sometimes rounded), the narrow oblong sixth series of phyllaries (vs. oblanceolate, when present), and the bigger scales 1.8–1.9 mm long, when present (vs. 2.1–2.2 mm, when present). In addition to these characters, a principal component analysis also supports the traits differentiating the new hybrid from its parental taxa. Geographic distributions of C. × crassa and its parental species are mapped, including a modelled prediction occurrence map for the nothospecies. A taxonomic key for identification of the parents and the nothospecies is provided and the key morphological characters of these three taxa are illustrated.
Typification of Gagea lacaitae (Liliaceae) revisited
Authors: FERRER-GALLEGO P. PABLO
Published: October 2023

The typification of the name Gagea lacaitae (Liliaceae) is revised. A lectotypification had previously been proposed by Peruzzi and Tison in 2004 from a specimen kept at NAP (Herbarium A. Terracciano, now with barcode NAP0001973) and collected by Parlatore in 1848. However, Terracciano cited in the protologue gatherings collected by Juan Isern and Gaetano Leone Durando. Specimens of these gatherings are kept at NAP, MA, P, and PAL. Therefore, this material has preference in the lectotype designation and must be chosen according to the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (Art. 9.12 of the Shenzhen Code of 2018).
A new species of Bregmaceros (Gadiformes: Bregmacerotidae) from the eastern Pacific Ocean, with comments on B. atlanticus and B. japonicus
Authors: HAROLD ANTONY S. , BALTZEGAR D. ANDREW
Published: October 2023

A new species of Bregmaceros is described based on a series of specimens from the eastern Pacific Ocean from near the Hawaiian Islands eastward to the California Current region. The new species bears considerable similarity in body shape and pigmentation to other overall darkly pigmented species with moderately high anal-fin counts (51–59 in B. moseri) and modified prehaemal anal-fin pterygiophores (B. atlanticus and B. japonicus). The form and occurrence of these modified pterygiophores among Bregmaceros species is discussed. The new species is distinguished from B. atlanticus and B. japonicus and other undescribed forms in the historical literature commonly referred to Bregmaceros “mcclellandi” based on its high precaudal (prehaemal) vertebral counts (15 or 16 vs. 13–15, typically 14) and associated elongation of the anterior portion of the body, and dark pigmentation concentrated dorsally on body and on head dorsal to nares anteriorly and operculum posteriorly but little or no pigment on lateral and ventral surfaces of head. The new species uniquely shares with these other species the modified prehaemal anal-fin pterygiophores and a lack of posterior bifurcation of the coelomic space otherwise present in the remaining species in the genus.
New record of Epistylis obliqua Sommer, 1951 (Ciliophora, Peritrichia) on aquatic mite Unionicola minor (Soar 1900) (Acari, Hydrachnidia)
Authors: ABIBULAEVA ALIE , YALÇIN ÇAĞRI , DURUCAN FURKAN , DOVGAL IGOR
Published: October 2023

This article deals with the report of a colonial peritrich ciliate species Epistylis obliqua Sommer, 1951 as epibiont on hydrachnid mite Unionicola minor (Soar 1900) from the freshwater in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The finding of the species is the first after its original description as well as the first finding on a mite which belongs to family Unionicolidae Oudemans, 1909. The systematic position, improved diagnosis and morphometrics characteristic of E. obliqua are presented in the present study.
Different Mechanisms for Supporting Mental Imagery and Perceptual Representations: Modulation Versus Excitation
Authors: Pace Thomas , Koenig-Robert Roger , Pearson Joel
Published: October 2023

Recent research suggests imagery is functionally equivalent to a weak form of visual perception. Here we report evidence across five independent experiments on adults that perception and imagery are supported by fundamentally different mechanisms: Whereas perceptual representations are largely formed via increases in excitatory activity, imagery representations are largely supported by modulating nonimagined content. We developed two behavioral techniques that allowed us to first put the visual system into a state of adaptation and then probe the additivity of perception and imagery. If imagery drives similar excitatory visual activity to perception, pairing imagery with perceptual adapters should increase the state of adaptation. Whereas pairing weak perception with adapters increased measures of adaptation, pairing imagery reversed their effects. Further experiments demonstrated that these nonadditive effects were due to imagery weakening representations of nonimagined content. Together these data provide empirical evidence that the brain uses categorically different mechanisms to represent imagery and perception.
Comparative transcriptome analysis of two Daphnia galeata genotypes displaying contrasting phenotypic variation induced by fish kairomones in the same environment of the Han River, Korea
Authors: Choi Tae-June , Han Seung-Min , Malik Adeel , Kim Chang-Bae
Published: October 2023

Background

Phenotypic plasticity is a crucial adaptive mechanism that enables organisms to modify their traits in response to changes in their environment. Predator-induced defenses are an example of phenotypic plasticity observed across a wide range of organisms, from single-celled organisms to vertebrates. In addition to morphology and behavior, these responses also affect life-history traits. The crustaceanDaphnia galeatais a suitable model organism for studying predator-induced defenses, as it exhibits life-history traits changes under predation risk. To get a better overview of their phenotypic plasticity under predation stress, we conducted RNA sequencing on the transcriptomes of two KoreanDaphnia galeatagenotypes, KE1, and KB11, collected in the same environment.

Results

When exposed to fish kairomones, the two genotypes exhibited phenotypic variations related to reproduction and growth, with opposite patterns in growth-related phenotypic variation. From both genotypes, a total of 135,611 unigenes were analyzed, of which 194 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) were shared among the two genotypes under predation stress, which showed consistent, or inconsistent expression patterns in both genotypes. Prominent DETs were related to digestion and reproduction and consistently up-regulated in both genotypes, thus associated with changes in life-history traits. Among the inconsistent DETs, transcripts encode vinculin (VINC) and protein obstructor-E (OBST-E), which are associated with growth; these may explain the differences in life-history traits between the two genotypes. In addition, genotype-specific DETs could explain the variation in growth-related life-history traits between genotypes, and could be associated with the increased body length of genotype KE1.

Conclusions

The current study allows for a better understanding of the adaptation mechanisms related to reproduction and growth of two KoreanD. galeatagenotypes induced by predation stress. However, further research is necessary to better understand the specific mechanisms by which the uncovered DETs are related with the observed phenotypic variation in each genotype. In the future, we aim to unravel the precise adaptive mechanisms underlying predator-induced responses.
Epidemiology and clinical characteristics of patients with carbapenem-resistant enterobacterales infections: experience from a large tertiary care center in a developing country
Authors: Aiesh Banan M. , Maali Yazan , Qandeel Farah , Omarya Siwar , Taha Shatha Abu , Sholi Suha , Sabateen Ali , Taha Adham Abu , Zyoud Sa’ed H.
Published: October 2023

Background

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CREs) are a significant source of healthcare-associated infections. These bacteria are difficult to treat and have a high mortality rate due to high rates of antibiotic resistance. These pathogens are also linked to major outbreaks in healthcare institutions especially those with limited resources in infection prevention and control (IPC). Therefore, our study aimed to describe the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of patients with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in a referral hospital in a developing country.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study that included 218 patients admitted to An-Najah National University Hospital between January 1, 2021, and May 31, 2022. The target population was all patients with CRE infection or colonization in the hospital setting.

Results

Of the 218 patients, 135 had CR-Klebsiella pneumoniae (61.9%), and 83 had CR-Escherichia coli (38.1%). Of these, 135 were male (61.9%) and 83 were female (38.1%), with a median age of 51 years (interquartile range 24–64). Malignancy was a common comorbidity in 36.7% of the patients. Approximately 18.3% of CRE patients were obtained from patients upon admission to the emergency department, the largest percentage among departments. Most CRE pathogens were isolated from rectal swabs, accounting for 61.3%. Among the 218 patients, colistin was the most widely used antimicrobial agent (13.3%). CR- E. coli showed resistance to amikacin in 23.8% of the pathogens tested and 85.7% for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole compared to CR- K. pneumonia, for which the resistance to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole was 74.1%, while for amikacin it was 64.2%. Regarding meropenem minimum inhibitory concentration, 85.7% of CR- E. coli were greater than 16 µg/mL compared to 84% of CR- K. pneumonia isolates.

Conclusion

This study found that CRE is frequently reported in this tertiary care setting, implying the presence of selective pressure and transmission associated with healthcare setting. The antibiotics tested showed a variety of resistance rates, with CR-K. pneumoniae being more prevalent than CR-E. coli, and exhibiting an extremely high resistance pattern to the available therapeutic options.
Comparison of bacterial culture with BioFire® FilmArray® multiplex PCR screening of archived cerebrospinal fluid specimens from children with suspected bacterial meningitis in Nigeria
Authors: Obaro S. , Hassan-Hanga F. , Medugu N. , Olaosebikan R. , Olanipekun G. , Jibir B. , Gambo S. , Ajose Theresa , Duru Carissa , Ebruke B. , Davies H. D.
Published: October 2023

Background

Diagnosis of bacterial meningitis remains a challenge in most developing countries due to low yield from bacterial culture, widespread use of non-prescription antibiotics, and weak microbiology laboratories. The objective of this study was to compare the yield from standard bacterial culture with the multiplex nested PCR platform, the BioFire® FilmArray® Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel (BioFire ME Panel), for cases with suspected acute bacterial meningitis.

Methods

Following Gram stain and bacterial culture on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected from children aged less than 5 years with a clinical suspicion of acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) as defined by the WHO guidelines, residual CSF specimens were frozen and later tested by BioFire ME Panel.

Results

A total of 400 samples were analyzed. Thirty-two [32/400 (8%)] of the specimens were culture positive, consisting of; three Salmonella spp. (2 Typhi and 1 non-typhi), three alpha hemolytic Streptococcus, one Staphylococcus aureus, six Neisseria meningitidis, seven Hemophilus influenzae, 11 Streptococcus pneumoniae and 368 were culture negative. Of the 368 culture-negative specimens, the BioFire ME Panel detected at least one bacterial pathogen in 90 (24.5%) samples, consisting of S. pneumoniae, N. meningitidis and H. influenzae, predominantly. All culture positive specimens for H. influenzae, N. meningitidis and S. pneumoniae also tested positive with the BioFire ME Panel. In addition, 12 specimens had mixed bacterial pathogens identified. For the first time in this setting, we have data on the viral agents associated with meningitis. Single viral agents were detected in 11 (2.8%) samples while co-detections with bacterial agents or other viruses occurred in 23 (5.8%) of the samples.

Conclusions

The BioFire® ME Panel was more sensitive and rapid than culture for detecting bacterial pathogens in CSF. The BioFire® ME Panel also provided for the first time, the diagnosis of viral etiologic agents that are associated with meningoencephalitis in this setting. Institution of PCR diagnostics is recommended as a routine test for suspected cases of ABM to enhance early diagnosis and optimal treatment.
Predicting response to CCRT for esophageal squamous carcinoma by a radiomics-clinical SHAP model
Authors: Cheng Xu , Zhang Yuxin , Zhu Min , Sun Ruixia , Liu Lingling , Li Xueling
Published: October 2023

Background

Radical concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) is frequently used as the first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer. Unfortunately, some patients respond poorly. To predict response to radical concurrent chemoradiotherapy in pre-treatment patients with esophageal squamous carcinoma (ESCC), and compare the predicting efficacies of radiomics features of primary tumor with or without regional lymph nodes, we developed a radiomics-clinical model based on the positioning CT images. Finally, SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) was used to explain the models.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 105 patients with medically inoperable and/or unresectable ESCC who underwent radical concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) between October 2018 and May 2023. Patients were classified into responder and non-responder groups with RECIST standards. The 11 recently admitted patients were chosen as the validation set, previously admitted patients were randomly split into the training set (n = 70) and the testing set (n = 24). Primary tumor site (GTV), the primary tumor and the uninvolved lymph nodes at risk of microscopic disease (CTV) were identified as Regions of Interests (ROIs). 1762 radiomics features from GTV and CTV were respectively extracted and then filtered by statistical differential analysis and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO). The filtered radiomics features combined with 13 clinical features were further filtered with Mutual Information (MI) algorithm. Based on the filtered features, we developed five models (Clinical Model, GTV Model, GTV-Clinical Model, CTV Model, and CTV-Clinical Model) using the random forest algorithm and evaluated for their accuracy, precision, recall, F1-Score and AUC. Finally, SHAP algorithm was adopted for model interpretation to achieve transparency and utilizability.

Results

The GTV-Clinical model achieves an AUC of 0.82 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.76–0.99 on testing set and an AUC of 0.97 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.84–1.0 on validation set, which are significantly higher than those of other models in predicting ESCC response to CCRT. The SHAP force map provides an integrated view of the impact of each feature on individual patients, while the SHAP summary plots indicate that radiomics features have a greater influence on model prediction than clinical factors in our model.

Conclusion

GTV-Clinical model based on texture features and the maximum diameter of lesion (MDL) may assist clinicians in pre-treatment predicting ESCC response to CCRT.
Dissection of paracrine/autocrine interplay in lung tumor microenvironment mimicking cancer cell-monocyte co-culture models reveals proteins that promote inflammation and metastasis
Authors: Amin Asif , Koul Aabid Mustafa , Wani Umer Majeed , Farooq Faizah , Amin Basit , Wani Zubair , Lone Asif , Qadri Ayub , Qadri Raies A.
Published: October 2023

Background

Tumor cell-monocyte interactions play crucial roles in shaping up the pro-tumorigenic phenotype and functional output of tumor-associated macrophages. Within the tumor microenvironment, such heterotypic cell–cell interactions are known to occur via secretory proteins. Secretory proteins establish a diabolic liaison between tumor cells and monocytes, leading to their recruitment, subsequent polarization and consequent tumor progression.

Methods

We co-cultured model lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 with model monocytes, THP-1 to delineate the interactions between them. The levels of prototypical pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-𝛼, IL-6 and anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 were measured by ELISA. Migration, invasion and attachment independence of lung cancer cells was assessed by wound healing, transwell invasion and colony formation assays respectively. The status of EMT was evaluated by immunofluorescence. Identification of secretory proteins differentially expressed in monocultures and co-culture was carried out using SILAC LC–MS/MS. Various insilico tools like Cytoscape, Reacfoam, CHAT and Kaplan–Meier plotter were utilized for association studies, pathway analysis, functional classification, cancer hallmark relevance and predicting the prognostic potential of the candidate secretory proteins respectively.

Results

Co-culture of A549 and THP-1 cells in 1:10 ratio showed early release of prototypical pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-𝛼 and IL-6, however anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10 was observed to be released at the highest time point. The conditioned medium obtained from this co-culture ratio promoted the migration, invasion and colony formation as well as the EMT of A549 cells. Co-culturing of A549 with THP-1 cells modulated the secretion of proteins involved in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, inflammation, angiogenesis and inhibition of apoptosis. Among these proteins Versican, Tetranectin, IGFBP2, TUBB4B, C2 and IFI30 were found to correlate with the inflammatory and pro-metastatic milieu observed in our experimental setup. Furthermore, dysregulated expression of these proteins was found to be associated with poor prognosis and negative disease outcomes in lung adenocarcinoma compared to other cancer types. Pharmacological interventions targeting these proteins may serve as useful therapeutic approaches in lung adenocarcinoma.

Conclusion

In this study, we have demonstrated that the lung cancer cell-monocyte cross-talk modulates the secretion of IFI30, RNH1, CLEC3B, VCAN, IGFBP2, C2 and TUBB4B favoring tumor growth and metastasis.
Health-related quality of life of metastatic prostate cancer patients treated with prostate Radiotherapy
Authors: Ayoub Heba Maged , Zamzam Maha Lotfy , Elsemary Eman Essam , Hassanin Ihab Mohamed , Elsayed Fifi Mostafa
Published: October 2023

Background

The impact of prostate radiotherapy on patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL) significantly influences the outcomes of metastatic prostate cancer. We measured and compared HRQoL of metastatic prostate cancer patients who received cytoreductive prostate radiotherapy.

Methods

Between November 23, 2020, and November 21, 2022, we recruited 70 metastatic prostate cancer patients at the Department of Clinical Oncology at Suez Canal University Hospital. Patients were eligible if they had synchronous and metachronous histopathological confirmed metastatic adenocarcinoma and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≤ 2. Random allocation was performed for either definitive local radiotherapy concurrent with the standard androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or to the standard ADT alone. Definitive radiotherapy was delivered conventionally (70 Gy/35 fractions) or through the hypofractionated regimen (55 Gy/20 fractions). Patients completed the comprehensive European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-PR25) at baseline, then at three-month intervals for one year. The primary endpoint was patient-reported HRQoL, with secondary endpoints including toxicity and radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS). Mean HRQoL scores between groups were compared using the independent samples t-test.

Results

We observed clinically significant improvements in urinary and bowel functions between baseline, 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month intervals after receiving definitive prostate radiotherapy. Patients in the radiotherapy group had significantly lower urinary symptoms scores than the control group. However, sexual activity and functioning showed significant deterioration.

Conclusion

Cytoreductive prostate radiotherapy in metastatic prostate cancer patients significantly improved urinary functioning, preserved bowel functioning but was associated with worsening of sexual functioning.

Trial Registration

This trial was registered on (27/04/2023) with pactr.samrc.ac.za, PACTR202305854600529, URL: https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=25510.
A novel CACNA1S gene variant in a child with hypokalemic periodic paralysis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhou Wen , Zhao Peilin , Gao Jian , Zhang Yunjian
Published: October 2023

Background

The CACNA1S gene encodes the alpha 1 S-subunit of the voltage-gated calcium channel, which is primarily expressed in the skeletal muscle cells. Pathogenic variants of CACNA1S can cause hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP), malignant hyperthermia susceptibility, and congenital myopathy. We aimed to study the clinical and molecular features of a male child with a CACNA1S variant and depict the molecular sub-regional characteristics of different phenotypes associated with CACNA1S variants.

Case presentation

We presented a case of HypoPP with recurrent muscle weakness and hypokalemia. Genetic analyses of the family members revealed that the proband had a novel c.497 C > A (p.Ala166Asp) variant of CACNA1S, which was inherited from his father. The diagnosis of HypoPP was established in the proband as he met the consensus diagnostic criteria. The patient and his parents were informed to avoid the classical triggers of HypoPP. The attacks of the patient are prevented by lifestyle changes and nutritional counseling. We also showed the molecular sub-regional location of the variants of CACNA1S which was associated with different phenotypes.

Conclusions

Our results identified a new variant of CACNA1S and expanded the spectrum of variants associated with HypoPP. Early genetic diagnosis can help avoid diagnostic delays, perform genetic counseling, provide proper treatment, and reduce morbidity and mortality.
Measuring the neglected anxiety disorder: validation of the social anxiety spectrum-short version (SHY-SV) questionnaire
Authors: Dell’Osso Liliana , Cremone Ivan Mirko , Nardi Benedetta , Amatori Giulia , Bonelli Chiara , Gravina Davide , Benedetti Francesca , Del Prete Luca , Massimetti Gabriele , Carpita Barbara
Published: October 2023

Background

In the recent years, a growing body of literature stressed the importance of a dimensional perspective on mental disorders. In particular, since its conceptualization, one of the main concerns in the field of Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) has been the definition of a diagnostic threshold, leading to the suggestion that SAD may be more properly classified as a spectrum of severity rather than a discrete disorder based on subjectively determined threshold. The purpose of the current research is to evaluate the psychometric qualities of the Social Anxiety Spectrum - Short Version (SHY-SV), a novel questionnaire designed to measure the complete range of social anxiety symptoms, from overt manifestations to subthreshold ones.

Methods

42 subjects with a clinical diagnosis of social anxiety disorder (SAD) according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), 43 subjects with a clinical diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and 60 individuals without current or lifetime mental disorders (HC) were recruited from the Psychiatric Clinic of the University of Pisa. Subjects were assessed with the SCID-5, Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) and the SHY-SV.

Results

SHY-SV showed strong internal consistency, and both the total and domain scores had great test-retest reliability. The Pearson’s coefficients for the SHY-SV domain scores ranged from 0.391 to 0.933, and they were positively and significantly correlated with one another (p 0.001). All the SHY-SV domain scores were highly correlated with the SHY-SV total score. Results from of the correlation coefficients between SHY-SV and alternative measures of SAD were all significant and positive. Significant differences among diagnostic groups on both SAD-SV domains and total scores were found. SAD-SV total score increased significantly and progressively from HCs, to the OCD up to the SAD group which showed the highest values.

Conclusion

The SHY-SV demonstrated significant convergent validity with other dimensional SAD measures, great internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. With an increasing score gradient from healthy controls to patients with OCD to those with SAD, the questionnaire performed differently in each of the three diagnostic categories.
Relationship between perceived coercion and perceived justification of coercive measures – secondary analysis of a randomized-controlled trial
Authors: Wullschleger Alexandre , Vandamme Angelika , Mielau Juliane , Heinz Andreas , Bermpohl Felix , Mahler Lieselotte , Montag Christiane
Published: October 2023

Background

Subjective perception of coercion has gained attention as an important outcome. However, little is known about its relation to patients’ appraisal of the justification of coercive measures. The present study aims to analyze the relationship between patients’ appraisal of the justification of coercive measures and their level of perceived coercion.

Methods

This study presents a secondary analysis of the results of a multi-center RCT conducted to evaluate the effects of post-coercion review. Patients who experienced at least one coercive measure during their hospital stay were included in the trial. Participants’ appraisal of the justification of coercive measures was categorized into patient-related and staff-related justifications. Subjective coercion was assessed using the Coercion Experience Scale (CES) and used as dependent variable in a multivariate regression model.

Results

97 participants who completed the CES were included in the analysis. CES scores were significantly associated with the perception of the coercive measure as justified by staff-related factors (B = 0,540, p < 0,001), as well as with higher level of negative symptoms (B = 0,265, p = 0,011), and with mechanical restraint compared to seclusion (B=-0,343, p = 0,017).

Conclusions

Patients’ perceptions of coercive measures as justified by staff-related factors such as arbitrariness or incompetence of staff are related to higher levels of perceived coercion. Multiprofessional efforts must be made to restrict the use of coercive measures and to ensure a transparent and sustainable decision-making process, particularly with patients showing high levels of negative symptoms. Such key elements should be part of all coercion reduction programs.
Rural libraries implementing walking groups or walking groups plus civic engagement for walkability in rural communities: a comparative effectiveness trial study protocol
Authors: Perry Cynthia K , Seguin-Fowler Rebecca , Maddock Jay E. , Lenstra Noah , Dieckmann Nathan F. , Currier Jessica , Andreyeva Elena , Winkle Jim , Trost Stewart G.
Published: October 2023

Background

Rural residents generally lack adequate physical activity to benefit health and reduce disparities in chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. The Socioecological Model describes physical activity as involving a dynamic and reciprocal interaction between individual, social, and community factors. Community group-based walking programs and civic engagement interventions aimed at enhancing physical activity have been successful in rural communities but have not targeted all three socioecological levels. Public libraries can act as innovative public health partners in rural communities. However, challenges remain because rural libraries often lack the capacity to implement evidence-based health promotion programming. The goals of this study are (1) build the capacity for rural libraries to implement evidence-based health promotion programs, (2) compare changes in physical activity between a group-based walking program and a combined group-based walking and civic engagement program with rural residents, and (3) conduct an implementation evaluation.

Methods

We will conduct a comparative effectiveness study of a group-based walking (standard approach) versus a group-based walking plus civic engagement program (combined approach) aimed at enhancing walkability to increase physical activity among rural adults. Key mediators between the program effects and change in outcomes will also be identified. Finally, we will evaluate program implementation, conduct a cost effectiveness evaluation, and use a positive deviance analysis to understand experiences of high and low changers on key outcomes. Twenty towns will be matched and randomized to one of the two conditions and our aim is to enroll a total of 350–400 rural residents (15–20 per town). Study outcomes will be assessed at baseline, and 6, 12, and 24 months.

Discussion

This study will build the capacity of rural libraries to implement evidence-based walking programs as well as other health promotion programs in their communities. The study results will answer questions regarding the relative effectiveness and cost effectiveness of two multilevel physical activity interventions targeting rural communities. We will learn what works and how these multilevel interventions can be implemented in rural populations.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05677906.
Gender differences in estimated excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand
Authors: Pothisiri Wiraporn , Prasitsiriphon Orawan , Apakupakul Jutarat , Ploddi Kritchavat
Published: October 2023

Background

There is a limited body of research specifically examining gender inequality in excess mortality and its variations across age groups and geographical locations during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the patterns of gender inequality in excess all-cause mortality in Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Data pertaining to all-cause deaths and population between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2021, were obtained from Thailand’s Bureau of Registration Administration. A seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) technique was used to estimate excess mortality during the pandemic between January 2020 to December 2021. Gender differential excess mortality was measured as the difference in age-standardized mortality rates between men and women.

Results

Our SARIMA-based estimate of all-cause mortality in Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic amounted to 1,032,921 deaths, with COVID-19-related fatalities surpassing official figures by 1.64 times. The analysis revealed fluctuating patterns of excess and deficit in all-cause mortality rates across different phases of the pandemic, as well as among various age groups and regions. In 2020, the most pronounced gender disparity in excess all-cause mortality emerged in April, with 4.28 additional female deaths per 100,000, whereas in 2021, the peak gender gap transpired in August, with 7.52 more male deaths per 100,000. Individuals in the 80 + age group exhibited the largest gender gap for most of the observed period. Gender differences in excess mortality were uniform across regions and over the period observed. Bangkok showed the highest gender disparity during the peak of the fourth wave, with 24.18 more male deaths per 100,000.

Conclusion

The findings indicate an overall presence of gender inequality in excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand, observed across age groups and regions. These findings highlight the need for further attention to be paid to gender disparities in mortality and call for targeted interventions to address these disparities.
What works in advocating for food advertising policy change across an english region – a realist evaluation
Authors: Sykes Susie , Watkins Megan , Bond Matthew , Jenkins Catherine , Wills Jane
Published: October 2023

Background

With increasing recognition of the role of commercial determinants of health, local areas in England have sought to restrict the advertising of products high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) on council-owned spaces, as part of wider strategies to reduce obesity. While there is some evidence of the impact of such policy change on behaviour, little is known about what works in the process of implementing this policy change.

Methods

Guided by a realist evaluation framework that explores the interaction between context, mechanism and outcomes, this study aims to investigate the factors that influence the restriction of outdoor advertising of HFSS products in one region in England. It refines a programme theory co-produced with stakeholders from 14 local authorities within a region and uses multiple data sources from each area with an in-depth examination of four case study sites. Data sources include longitudinal realist interviews, focus groups and surveys with policy advocates and policy stakeholders. Data were analysed retroductively to understand the causal link between context, mechanism and outcomes.

Results

Outcomes were driven by five dominant mechanisms: a strategic and staggered approach to stakeholder engagement, gathering intelligence, identifying policy champions, building relationships, reframing the issue; and two secondary mechanisms of amplifying the issue and increasing public will. These led to varied outcomes with no changes in formal policy position within the evaluation period but draft policy guidance in place and changes in political will demonstrated. Dominant context factors influencing change included having a named and resourced policy advocate in place supported by an external Community of Improvement and having existing aligned local objectives. Organisational complexity and change, financial concerns, lack of local examples, ideological positions and the pandemic were also influencing contextual factors.

Conclusion

Effecting policy change in this area requires the commitment of an extended period and the valuing of short-term policy outcomes, such as increasing political will. The importance of a resourced and well-supported policy advocate to lead this work is fundamental and the commercially sensitive nature of this policy change means that a complex interplay of mechanisms is required which may be dominated by a strategically staggered approach to stakeholder engagement.