bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconfigured metabolism brain network in asymptomatic microtubule-associated protein tau mutation carriers: a graph theoretical analysis
Authors: Liu Li , Chu Min , Nie Binbin , Liu Lin , Xie Kexin , Cui Yue , Kong Yu , Chen Zhongyun , Nan Haitian , Chen Kewei , Rosa-Neto Pedro , Wu Liyong
Published: April 2022

Background

Studies exploring topological properties of the metabolic network during the presymptomatic stage of genetic frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are scarce. However, such knowledge is important for understanding brain function and disease pathogenesis. Therefore, we aimed to explore FTD-specific patterns of metabolism topology reconfiguration in microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) mutation carriers before the onset of symptoms.

Methods

Six asymptomatic carriers of the MAPT P301L mutation were compared with 12 non-carriers who all belonged to the same family of FTD. For comparison, we included 32 behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD) patients and 33 unrelated healthy controls. Each participant underwent neuropsychological assessments, genetic testing, and a hybrid positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Voxel-wise gray matter volumes and standardized uptake value ratios were calculated and compared for structural MRI and fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET, separately. The sparse inverse covariance estimation method (SICE) was applied to topological properties and metabolic connectomes of brain functional networks derived from 18F-FDG PET/MRI data. Independent component analysis was used to explore the metabolic connectivity of the salience (SN) and default mode networks (DMN).

Results

The asymptomatic MAPT carriers performed normal global parameters of the metabolism network, whereas bvFTD patients did not. However, we revealed lost hubs in the ventromedial prefrontal, orbitofrontal, and anterior cingulate cortices and reconfigured hubs in the anterior insula, precuneus, and posterior cingulate cortex in asymptomatic carriers compared with non-carriers, which overlapped with the comparisons between bvFTD patients and controls. Similarly, significant differences in local parameters of these nodes were present between asymptomatic carriers and non-carriers. The reduction in the connectivity of lost hub regions and the enhancement of connectivity between reconfigured hubs and components of the frontal cortex were marked during the asymptomatic stage. Metabolic connectivity within the SN and DMN was enhanced in asymptomatic carriers compared with non-mutation carriers but reduced in bvFTD patients relative to controls.

Conclusions

Our findings showed that metabolism topology reconfiguration, characterized by the earliest involvement of medial prefrontal areas and active compensation in task-related regions, was present in the presymptomatic phase of genetic FTD with MAPT mutation, which may be used as an imaging biomarker of increased risk of FTD.
Necrotizing fasciitis of the vulva due to carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae as a complication of acute myeloid leukemia treatment: a case report
Authors: Bento Marta Leal , de Matos Leonor Vasconcelos , Ribeiro Lídia Alves , Gomes Olavo , Nogueira Filipa , Esteves Graça , Valle Sara , Martins Helena , Raposo João
Published: April 2022

Background

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae strains have been reported in healthcare facilities with a rising incidence and are a major concern owing to infections that are often severe and can be potentially fatal, with limited therapeutic options. Klebsiella pneumonia represents the most frequently isolated microorganism.

Case presentation

We report the case of a Caucasian 52-year old Caucasian woman with acute myeloid leukemia was admitted to the inpatient hematology unit at a university referral hospital in Portugal. This hospital has endemic colonization of Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae and contention measures are being implemented to reduce spreading of these multidrug resistant bacteria. After receiving first line chemotherapy according to the intermediate-dose cytarabine regimen, in context of deep medullary aplasia, the patient developed a localized infection of the vulva, which progressed to a necrotizing fasciitis. This is a rare, life-threatening, and fulminant infection. Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella was isolated in both vulvar exudate and blood cultures. The patient underwent multiple schemes of antimicrobials, but progressed with multiorgan compromise and was admitted to the intensive care unit for a short period for stabilization. Surgical debridement was performed twice with clinical improvement and, after 6 weeks, a skin graft was executed with good response. Reevaluation of the hematologic disease showed a complete response to first cycle of induction therapy. Despite success in resolving this complex infection, decisions regarding antibiotic treatment represented a tremendous challenge for the whole team. The importance of multidisciplinary collaboration was key for the patient’s recovery and survival, and therefore, needs to be acknowledged.

Conclusions

This clinical case raises awareness on a clinical entity that can be life threatening and, therefore, requires a high level of suspicion to assure an early integrated approach to avoid complications. Endemic spreading of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae is becoming a reality, and health policies need to be urgently undertaken at the national level to decrease morbidity and mortality because of health facilities-related infections.
Offering the appetite for the monitoring of European forests a diversified diet
Authors: Bontemps Jean-Daniel , Bouriaud Olivier , Vega Cédric , Bouriaud Laura
Published: April 2022

Key message

Forest monitoring in Europe is turning matter of renewed political concern, and a possible role for ICP Forests health monitoring has been suggested to meet this goal (Ann For Sci 78:94, 2021). Multipurpose national forest inventory (NFI) surveys yet offer a sampling effort by two orders of magnitude greater than ICP level 1, have accomplished substantial methodological and harmonization progresses in the recent years, and therefore form a decisive contributor to future European forest monitoring incentives. Possible paths for the future development of a pan-European, comprehensive and more accurate monitoring are designed that stress a crucial need to build on the assets of the existing forest monitoring programs and favor their cooperation, in order to limit the co-existence of distinct forest monitoring processes.
Qualitative evidence for improved caring, feeding and food production practices after nutrition-sensitive agriculture interventions in rural Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Dai Dinh , Di Prima Sabina , Huijzendveld Reint , Wright E. Pamela , Essink Dirk , Broerse Jacqueline E. W.
Published: April 2022

Background

Research on nutrition-sensitive agriculture (NSA) has mostly been aimed at demonstrating its impact on nutrition and explicating underlying pathways, and more rarely at understanding processes and lessons learnt from them. This study aimed to gain insights into the processes that influence behaviour change, contributing to improved caring, feeding and food production practices, using a program theory perspective. It also investigated perceived challenges to the sustainability of interventions and potential solutions, in the context of an NSA program in rural Vietnam. Using a participatory approach, data were gathered on impact pathways and perceived outcomes, on elements of program theory that led to behavioural change, as well as barriers and facilitators. Respondents in semi-structured interviews (n = 30) and seven focus group discussions (total n = 76) were selected purposively among program participants. Data was collected and triangulated across several stakeholder groups.

Results

The impact pathways (production-consumption, caring and feeding, and home-grown school feeding) envisaged in the NSA program functioned as intended; synergies were revealed. The increased supply of locally produced nutrient-rich foods not only contributed to the emergence of a promising income sub-pathway but also reinforced synergy with the home-grown school feeding pathway. Improved diets, feeding and caring practices, and school attendance were key outcomes of the program. Successful elements were pathway-specific, such as flexibility in implementing context-appropriate agricultural models. Others, such as benefit-driven motivation and improved knowledge, triggered changes in multiple pathways. Role models, increased self-confidence, and change agents were the main process facilitators. The biggest barrier to both implementation and sustainability was the poor socio-economic conditions of the most disadvantaged households.

Conclusions

This study showed the relevance of NSA programs in addressing undernutrition in remote areas by enhancing self-reliance in local communities. The integration of behaviour change activities proved to be a key strategy in the process to enhance the impact of agriculture on nutrition outcomes. Though outcomes and influencing factors are very context-dependent, lessons on what worked and what did not work could inform the design and implementation of effective behaviour change strategies in future NSA programs in Vietnam and elsewhere.
Investigating emotion regulation and social information processing as mechanisms linking adverse childhood experiences with psychosocial functioning in young swiss adults: the FACE epidemiological accelerated cohort study
Authors: Brodbeck Jeannette , Bötschi Salome I. R. , Vetsch Neela , Berger Thomas , Schmidt Stefanie J. , Marmet Simon
Published: April 2022

Background

Adverse childhood experiences increase the risk for psychological disorders and lower psychosocial functioning across the lifespan. However, less is known about the processes through which ACE are linked to multiple negative outcomes. The aim of the FACE epidemiological study is to investigate emotion regulation (emotional reactivity, perseverative thinking and self-efficacy for managing emotions) and social information processing (rejection sensitivity, interpretation biases and social understanding) as potential mechanisms linking adverse childhood experiences and psychosocial functioning in a large population sample of young adults. It is embedded in a larger project that also includes an ecological momentary assessment of emotion regulation and social information processing and informs the development and evaluation of an online self-help intervention for young adults with a history of ACE.

Methods

The study plans to recruit 5000 young adults aged 18 to 21 from the German-speaking Swiss population. Addresses are provided by Swiss Federal Statistical Office and participants are invited by mail to complete a self-report online survey. If the targeted sample size will not be reached, a second additional sample will be recruited via educational facilities such as universities or teacher training colleges or military training schools. Three follow-ups are planned after 1 year, 2 years and 3 years, resulting in ages 18–24 being covered. The main exposure variable is self-reported adverse childhood experiences before the age of 18, measured at the baseline. Primary outcomes are psychosocial functioning across the study period. Secondary outcomes are social information processing, emotion regulation and health care service use. Statistical analyses include a range of latent variable models to identify patterns of adverse childhood experiences and patterns and trajectories of psychosocial adaptation.

Discussion

The results will contribute to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms that link ACE with psychosocial functioning which is crucial for an improved insight into risk and resilience processes and for tailoring interventions. Furthermore, the identification of factors that facilitate or hinder service use among young adults with ACE informs healthcare policies and the provision of appropriate healthcare services.

Trial registration number: NCT05122988. The study was reviewed and authorized by the ethical committee of Northwestern and Central Switzerland (BASEC number 2021-01204).
Mapping of neuroinflammation-induced hypoxia in the spinal cord using optoacoustic imaging
Authors: Ramos-Vega Marta , Kjellman Pontus , Todorov Mihail Ivilinov , Kylkilahti Tekla Maria , Bäckström B. Thomas , Ertürk Ali , Madsen Chris Denis , Lundgaard Iben
Published: April 2022

Recent studies suggest that metabolic changes and oxygen deficiency in the central nervous system play an important role in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS). In our present study, we investigated the changes in oxygenation and analyzed the vascular perfusion of the spinal cord in a rodent model of MS. We performed multispectral optoacoustic tomography of the lumbar spinal cord before and after an oxygen enhancement challenge in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model for MS. In addition, mice were transcardially perfused with lectin to label the vasculature and their spinal columns were optically cleared, followed by light sheet fluorescence microscopy. To analyze the angioarchitecture of the intact spine, we used VesSAP, a novel deep learning-based framework. In EAE mice, the spinal cord had lower oxygen saturation and hemoglobin concentration compared to healthy mice, indicating compromised perfusion of the spinal cord. Oxygen administration reversed hypoxia in the spinal cord of EAE mice, although the ventral region remained hypoxic. Additionally, despite the increased vascular density, we report a reduction in length and complexity of the perfused vascular network in EAE. Taken together, these findings highlight a new aspect of neuroinflammatory pathology, revealing a significant degree of hypoxia in EAE in vivo that is accompanied by changes in spinal vascular perfusion. The study also introduces optoacoustic imaging as a tractable technique with the potential to further decipher the role of hypoxia in EAE and to monitor it in MS patients.
Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training in School on the Physical Performance and Health of Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bauer Nikolai , Sperlich Billy , Holmberg Hans-Christer , Engel Florian A.
Published: April 2022

Background

Performance of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) by children and adolescents improves physical and health-related fitness, as well as cardiometabolic risk factors.

Objectives

To assess the impact of HIIT performed at school, i.e. both in connection with physical education (intra-PE) and extracurricular sports activities (extra-PE), on the physical fitness and health of children and adolescents.

Methods

PubMed and SPORTDiscus were searched systematically utilizing the following criteria for inclusion: (1) healthy children and adolescents (5–18 years old) of normal weight; (2) HIIT performed intra- and/or extra-PE for at least 5 days at an intensity ≥ 80% of maximal heart rate (HRmax) or peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) or as Functional HIIT; (3) comparison with a control (HIIT versus alternative interventions); and (4) pre- and post-analysis of parameters related to physical fitness and health. The outcomes with HIIT and the control interventions were compared utilizing Hedges’ g effect size (ES) and associated 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Eleven studies involving 707 participants who performed intra-PE and 388 participants extra-PE HIIT were included. In comparison with the control interventions, intra-PE HIIT improved mean ES for neuromuscular and anaerobic performance (ES jump performance: 5.89 ± 5.67 (range 1.88–9.90); ES number of push-ups: 6.22 (range n.a.); ES number of sit-ups: 2.66 ± 2.02 (range 1.24–4.09)), as well as ES fasting glucose levels (− 2.68 (range n.a.)) more effectively, with large effect sizes. Extra-PE HIIT improved mean ES for neuromuscular and anaerobic performance (ES jump performance: 1.81 (range n.a.); ES number of sit-ups: 2.60 (range n.a.)) to an even greater extent, again with large effect sizes. Neither form of HIIT was more beneficial for parameters related to cardiorespiratory fitness than the control interventions.

Conclusion

Compared to other forms of exercise (e.g. low-to-moderate-intensity running or walking), both intra- and extra-PE HIIT result in greater improvements in neuromuscular and anaerobic performance, as well as in fasting levels of glucose in school children.
Proximal Hamstring Tendon Avulsions: A Survey of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ Current Practices in the Nordic Countries
Authors: Laszlo Sofia , Nilsson Martin , Pihl Elsa , Mattila Ville M. , Schilcher Jörg , Sköldenberg Olof , Frihagen Frede , Jonsson Kenneth B.
Published: April 2022

Background and purpose

Evidence guiding the decision on whether to treat proximal hamstring tendon avulsions (PHA) operatively or non-operatively is very limited. The aim of this study was to identify the current practices and the rationale behind PHA treatment decisions in the Nordic countries.

Methods

A survey was sent to orthopaedic surgeons in Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark. The study population consisted of responding surgeons with exposure to surgical treatment of PHA (n = 125). The questions covered surgeon and unit characteristics, and surgeons’ understanding of the evidence for treatment, and they explored which patient and injury factors influence treatment allocation.

Results

Although some surgeons indicated a preference for one of the treatments, 84% stated that the treatment decision was based on patient and injury-related factors. Severe obesity, drug abuse, a sedentary lifestyle, age > 60 years and delayed diagnosis (> 6 weeks) were considered contraindications to surgical treatment. Also, there was agreement that patients expressing a preference for non-operative treatment should not be operated. Complete avulsions with tendon dislocation ≥ 2–3 cm on MRI were relative indications for surgical treatment.

The majority of surgeons did not believe that operatively treated patients did better than non-operatively treated patients and experienced that patients, generally, were satisfied with the treatment result, regardless of the type of treatment. Most surgeons had experienced significant complications to operative treatment.

Conclusion

Current practices varied among different units, and despite the lack of evidence for their prognostic value, several factors were inconsistently being used as decision modifiers when selecting patients for surgical treatment.
M2-like macrophages transplantation protects against the doxorubicin-induced heart failure via mitochondrial transfer
Authors: Liu Yihai , Wu Mingyue , Zhong Chongxia , Xu Biao , Kang Lina
Published: April 2022

Aims

The alternatively activated macrophages have shown a cardioprotective effect in heart failure. However, the effect of M2 adoptive transfer in non-ischemic heart failure is unknown. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of M-CSF plus IL-4 induced M2-like macrophages transplantation in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

Methods

Bone marrow mononuclear cells were polarized as CCR2
+
CD206
+
M2-like macrophages by a combination of M-CSF plus IL-4 treatment. C57BL/6 mice received a single intraperitoneal injection of doxorubicin (15 mg/kg). The treatment group were treated with M2-like macrophages (1 × 10^6 cells per mouse; i.v.) once a week for 2 weeks. After 3 weeks, we examined the percentage of resident cells and cardiac function. Furthermore, we evaluated cardiac fibrosis, cardiomyocyte apoptosis and circulating inflammatory factors. Finally, we investigated the mitochondria transfer in vitro in a direct and indirect co-culture conditions.

Results

Cardiac function was significantly improved in doxorubicin-induced heart failure by adoptive transfer of M2-like macrophages. Besides, M2-like macrophages treatment attenuated cardiac fibrosis and cardiomyocyte apoptosis, as well as increased the level of circulating IL-4 and Th2 response. In vitro, M2-like macrophages could transfer mitochondria to injured cardiomyocytes in a direct and indirect way.

Conclusions

In our study, adoptive transfer of M2-like macrophages could protect against the doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity, which may be partly attributed to mitochondria transfer. And M2-like macrophages transplantation could become a treatment for non-ischemic heart failure in the clinical practice.

Graphical Abstract
The effect of co-ethnic social capital on immigrants' labor market integration: a natural experiment
Authors: Gërxhani Klarita , Kosyakova Yuliya
Published: April 2022

Empirically identifying the causal effect of social capital on immigrants’ economic prospects is a challenging task due to the non-random residential sorting of immigrants into locations with greater opportunities for prior or co-ethnic connections. Our study addresses this selection-bias issue by using a natural-experimental dataset of refugees and other immigrants who were exogenously allocated to their first place of residence by German authorities. This unique opportunity allows us to make an important methodological contribution to the predominantly observational knowledge about immigration and co-ethnic social capital. Although a growing body of migration studies in economics and sociology stresses the importance of social networks for migrants’ labor market integration, our results show little evidence of a causal effect of social networks themselves. Being part of a larger co-ethnic community per se does not accelerate immigrants’ labor market success except for the migrants who use the resources embedded in their social contacts when looking for a job. We conclude that further methodological advancements can be achieved by embracing recent technological developments and by combining different methods to increase both internal and external validity of findings in migration studies.
Cardiac mechanisms for low aerobic power in anthracycline treated, older, long-term breast cancer survivors
Authors: Beaudry Rhys I. , Haykowsky Mark J. , MacNamara James P. , Tucker Wesley J. , Rao Roshni , Haley Barbara , Sarma Satyam
Published: April 2022

Breast cancer survivors have reduced peak aerobic capacity (VO2peak) which may be related to latent or lingering chemotherapy induced cardiac damage. Nine, older (67 ± 3 years), long-term survivors (9.8 years) of anthracycline based chemotherapy and age- and sex-matched healthy controls were recruited and tested to determine whether: i) VO2peak remains reduced in long-term survivorship; and ii) reductions in VO2peak are due to cardiac dysfunction. VO2peak was significantly reduced in breast cancer survivors relative to healthy controls (15.9 ± 2.0 vs 19.9 ± 3.1 ml/kg/min, p = 0.006), however the heart rate and stroke volume responses to exercise were normal (heart rate reserve; 88 ± 9 vs 85 ± 10 bpm, p = 0.62: stroke volume reserve; 13 ± 6 vs 13 ± 9 ml,p = 0.94). These findings indicate low-normal ventricular size in long-term breast cancer survivors, but normal reserve function.
Learning from success stories when using eLearning and bLearning modalities in higher education: a meta-analysis and lessons towards digital educational transformation
Authors: Galvis Álvaro H. , Carvajal Diógenes
Published: April 2022

This work seeks to support scholars interested in non-face-to-face modalities of higher education in making decisions about the use of digital and educational technologies (DET) to promote educational transformation (ET) in the context of their organizations. This organizational change deals with the implementation of technology-based flexible educational practices, focused on helping students develop competencies of interest for their personal and professional growth. With this in mind, in 2018 we identified and followed six leading higher education institutions on three continents that, for years, have carried out educational innovation experiences with the support of technology. Two of the analyzed experiences make use of eLearning, another of bLearning, and the others combine eLearning and bLearning as a complement to the face-to-face modality. The meta-analysis of the cases, carried out in 2019, followed suggestions from (Stake in The art of case study research, Sage Publications Inc., 1995) as well as from qualitative research that seeks to understand what is behind the cases from three dimensions: education, technology, organization. For each one, we determined what they do, how they do it, and what success factors must be considered. As the data was collected before the 2020 pandemic and this issue produced structural imbalances in society and in higher education, it was considered pertinent, at the end of 2020, to check the pulse of the ET mediated with DET in three of the six institutions studied. The purpose was to refine the findings of the meta-analysis and learn from the decisions made in the situation of forced change in environments, means, and strategies to continue providing quality higher education.
Portevin–Le Chatelier effect: modeling the deformation bands and stress-strain curves
Authors: Mäkinen Tero , Ovaska Markus , Laurson Lasse , Alava Mikko J.
Published: April 2022

In the Portevin–Le Chatelier (PLC) effect sample plastic deformation takes place via localized bands. We present a model to account for band dynamics and the variability the bands exhibit. The approach is tuned to account for strain hardening and the strain-rate dependence for the case of so-called type A (propagating) bands. The main experimental features of the fluctuations are a reduction with strain and increase with the strain rate which is reproduced by a model of plastic deformation with Dynamic Strain Aging, including disorder as a key parameter. Extensions are discussed as are the short-comings in reproducing detailed avalanche statistics.
Principle and performance of multi-frequency and multi-GNSS PPP-RTK
Authors: Li Xingxing , Wang Bo , Li Xin , Huang Jiaxin , Lyu Hongbo , Han Xinjuan
Published: April 2022

PPP-RTK which takes full advantages of both Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) and Precise Point Positioning (PPP), is able to provide centimeter-level positioning accuracy with rapid integer Ambiguity Resolution (AR). In recent years, with the development of BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) and Galileo navigation satellite system (Galileo) as well as the modernization of Global Positioning System (GPS) and GLObal NAvigation Satellite System (GLONASS), more than 140 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) satellites are available. Particularly, the new-generation GNSS satellites are capable of transmitting signals on three or more frequencies. Multi-GNSS and multi-frequency observations become available and can be used to enhance the performance of PPP-RTK. In this contribution, we develop a multi-GNSS and multi-frequency PPP-RTK model, which uses all the available GNSS observations, and comprehensively evaluate its performance in urban environments from the perspectives of positioning accuracy, convergence and fixing percentage. In this method, the precise atmospheric corrections are derived from the multi-frequency and multi-GNSS observations of a regional network, and then disseminated to users to achieve PPP rapid AR. Furthermore, a cascade ambiguity fixing strategy using Extra‐Wide‐Lane (EWL), Wide-Lane (WL) and L1 ambiguities is employed to improve the performance of ambiguity fixing in the urban environments. Vehicle experiments in different scenarios such as suburbs, overpasses, and tunnels are conducted to validate the proposed method. In suburbs, an accuracy of within 2 cm in the horizontal direction and 4 cm in the vertical direction, with the fixing percentage of 93.7% can be achieved. Compared to the GPS-only solution, the positioning accuracy is improved by 87.6%. In urban environments where signals are interrupted frequently, a fast ambiguity re-fixing can be achieved within 5 s. Moreover, multi-frequency GNSS signals can further improve the positioning performance of PPP-RTK, particularly in the case of small amount of observations. These results demonstrate that the multi-frequency and multi-GNSS PPP-RTK is a promising tool for supporting precise vehicle navigation.
Risk stratification of sudden cardiac death in Brugada syndrome: an updated review of literature
Authors: Darar Charmake , Mohammed El-Azrak , Mohammed Boutaybi , Noha El Ouafi , Zakaria Bazid
Published: April 2022

Brugada syndrome is a rare but serious inherited heart disease that causes sudden cardiac death by polymorphic ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. It is an autosomal dominant genetic disease that usually occurs in patients in their forties with a structurally normal heart. Electrically, it manifests by ST elevation segment ≥ 2 mm of at least one right precordial lead (V1 and/or V2). Stratification of sudden cardiac death in Brugada syndrome is not always easy and constitutes a real challenge for the practitioner. In this review, we will present the current state of knowledge for arrhythmic risk stratification and the prevention of sudden cardiac death that can result from this syndrome.
An initial evaluation of narrative exposure therapy as a treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder among Sudanese refugees in Cairo, delivered by lay counselors
Authors: Ellis Kate , Jones F.
Published: April 2022

Background

The growing worldwide refugee crisis highlights the needs for increased access to mental health services, including in the large urban cities in the Middle East to which refugees are frequently displaced and in which access to such services is limited. The current study offers an initial evaluation of narrative exposure therapy as a treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder among Sudanese refugees in Cairo, delivered by lay counselors. Sudanese refugees with no prior background in counseling were given 27 h of training in narrative exposure therapy. They then delivered this to seven members of the same refugee community with a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder at a local community center, and this was evaluated using a pre-post design and a focus-group with the intervention recipients.

Results

Despite the small sample size, over the course of the intervention there was significant decrease in trauma and anxiety symptoms, and a close to significant decrease in depression. Moreover, the focus group participants generally spoke positively about their experiences.

Conclusions

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the viability of lay counselors delivering narrative exposure therapy to refugees with posttraumatic stress disorder in a complex urban setting. The findings suggest that this approach has promise and support the case for a randomized control trial of narrative exposure therapy delivered in this manner in such a setting.
Using economic evaluations in implementation science to increase transparency in costs and outcomes for organizational decision-makers
Authors: Saldana Lisa , Ritzwoller Debra P. , Campbell Mark , Block Eryn Piper
Published: April 2022

Background

Economic evaluations frequently are utilized to compare the value of different interventions in medicine and health in concrete terms. Implementation science also would benefit from the incorporation of economic evaluations, but such studies are rare in the literature. The National Cancer Institute has supported a special collection of articles focusing on economic evaluations in implementation science. Even when interventions are supported by substantial evidence, they are implemented infrequently in the field. Implementation costs are important determinants for whether organizational decision-makers choose to adopt an intervention and whether the implementation process is successful. Economic evaluations, such as cost-effectiveness analyses, can help organizational decision-makers choose between implementation approaches for evidence-based interventions by accounting for costs and succinctly presenting cost/benefit tradeoffs.

Main text

This manuscript presents a discussion of important considerations for incorporating economic evaluations into implementation science. First, the distinction between intervention and implementation costs is presented, along with an explanation of why the comprehensive representation of implementation costs is elusive. Then, the manuscript describes how economic evaluations in implementation science may differ from those in medicine and health intervention studies, especially in terms of determining the perspectives and outcomes of interest. Finally, referencing a scale-up trial of an evidence-based behavioral health intervention, concrete case examples of how cost data can be collected and used in economic evaluations targeting implementation, rather than clinical outcomes, are described.

Conclusions

By gaining a greater understanding of the costs and economic impact associated with different implementation approaches, organizational decision-makers will have better transparency for future replication and scale-up. The use of economic evaluations can help to advance this understanding and provide researchers, purveyors or third-party intermediaries, and organizational decision-makers with essential information to facilitate implementation.
Computational and pharmacokinetics studies of 1,3-dimethylbenzimidazolinone analogues of new proposed agent against Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ajala Abduljelil , Uzairu Adamu , Shallangwa Gideon Adamu. , Abechi Stephen Eyije.
Published: April 2022

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial disorder that gradually destroys wisdom and memory skills. Currently, this disease can only be treated palliatively. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this condition remain elusive. Therefore, these treatments are inadequate. Current medications can only increase patient warning signs. Chemical structures were drawn using Chemsketch software. Spartan’14 software was used to optimize the structures using density functional theory (DFT). The PaDEL software was used to generate the descriptors. The genetic function algorithm (GFA) and multi-linear regression (MLR) approaches were used to generate the QSAR model.

Results

In the present study, we performed a computational investigation, molecular docking, and pharmacokinetics analysis of 1,3-dimethylbenzimidazolinone derivatives. The descriptors generated in the model are AATS7i, MATS5p, SpMin7_Bhe, and GATS6c. Compounds 13 and 21 have the best binding scores, 11.2 kcal/mol and 10.8 kcal/mol, respectively, and optimal protein–ligand interactions with AChE. These compounds have brilliant pharmacokinetic and physicochemical properties.

Conclusions

The model was validated and found to have good internal and external assessment parameters: R2 = 0.937, $$R_{{{\text{adj}}}}^{2}$$

R

adj

2

 = 0.863, $$Q_{{{\text{cv}}}}^{2}$$

Q

cv

2

 = 0.788, $$R_{{{\text{test}}}}^{2}$$

R

test

2

 = 0.756, LOF = 0.0268, $$cR_{{\text{p}}}^{2}$$

c

R

p

2

 = 0.677. In summary, these data suggested that compounds 13 and 21 are promising multifunctional agents against AD.
Clinicophysiological and hematobiochemical effect of dexmedetomidine or diazepam with ketamine and propofol in total intravenous anesthesia in goats
Authors: Ragab G. , Hassan S. E. , Fathi M. Z. , Hagag U.
Published: April 2022

Background

Total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) is a well-documented anesthetic concept for some animal species, including dogs and horses; however, information about TIVA protocols in goats is currently inadequate. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the clinicophysiological and hematobiochemical effects of dexmedetomidine (DEX) and diazepam premedication with ketamine and propofol.

Result

The DEX-treated group showed a significantly decreased heart rate compared with the diazepam-treated group. Onset of anesthesia and sedation in group I was significantly faster than that in group II (0.33 ± 0.08 and 0.25 ± 0.08 min vs. 3.33 ± 1.53 and 2.0 ± 1.0 min, respectively). Duration of anesthesia and sedation in group I was significantly longer than that in group II (66.67 ± 7.64 and 161.3 ± 43.3 min vs. 37.0 ± 5.19 and 60.33 ± 7.57 min, respectively). The total recovery period in group II was significantly shorter than that in group I (47.0 ± 7.21 vs. 98.33 ± 15.27 min).

Smooth induction and recovery occurred in all goats in group I, whereas most goats in group II exhibited slightly prolonged induction with mild excitation and presence of swallowing reflex and prolonged struggling during recovery.

Conclusion

In TIVA, premedication with DEX produces excellent quality anesthesia, analgesia, sedation, and muscle relaxation. Furthermore, it produces a longer duration of anesthesia, sedation, and analgesia than premedication with diazepam. For these reasons, DEX is more suitable for long surgical procedures, whereas diazepam can be used in minor surgical procedures in goats. Both drug combinations produce hemodynamic stability.
Conventional 3-port vs. single-incision laparoscopic oophorectomy for ovarian cryopreservation in paediatric surgery: a retrospective case-note review
Authors: Metcalfe Kiloran , Ghattaura Harmit , Elbourne Ceri , Ashour Khaled , Lane Sheila , Lakhoo Kokila
Published: April 2022

Objective

We aim to compare conventional 3-port with single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) for oophorectomy in patients undergoing ovarian cryopreservation.

Background

Demand for cryopreservation of ovarian tissue prior to the initiation of gonadotoxic treatment has risen significantly since its introduction in England in 2013. Traditionally, laparoscopic oophorectomy is performed using a 3-port technique with an umbilical port and 2 smaller 5-mm working ports. Energy devices can be used to allow haemostatic dissection of the ovary and this is delivered through the umbilical port site. In an attempt to improve efficiency, post-operative outcomes, and enhance cosmesis; our department initiated the use of the Applied Medical GelPoint Mini Advanced Access Platform single port technique using a vertical trans-umbilical approach for ovarian cryopreservation.

Methods

All patients undergoing laparoscopic oophorectomy for cryopreservation between September 2013 and August 2017 were included. The patients were consented for SILS, 3-port and open oophorectomies. All patients received maximum local anaesthetic wound infiltration intra-operatively. Case notes and theatre electronic data were reviewed and data was collected on additional procedure, conversion rate, operative time, post-operative analgesia requirement, complications and length of hospital stay.

Results

A total of 106 patients underwent laparoscopic oophorectomy during the study period. Of these, 40 underwent conventional 3-port, 65 had SILS and 1 patient had open. No cases were converted from the intended method. There was a statistically significant difference in the mean operative time; with SILS being faster than the conventional 3-port method (SILS: 40.4 min; 3-port: 51.7 min; p = 0.017). There was no difference in length of stay or perioperative analgesics, and complication rates in both groups were low. Informal qualitative feedback included surgeons stating that the ovary was much easier to deliver using the SILS technique. Patients were also happy with a single cosmetically appeasing scar hidden within the umbilicus.

Conclusion

SILS is an acceptable technique in ovarian cryopreservation allowing a quicker operative time, easier delivery of the ovary, and better cosmesis. A learning curve is recognised due to the ergonomics of single port laparoscopy; however, the technique can be established easily in departments with existing laparoscopic capabilities. This is the first paper which establishes this within a Paediatric Surgical setting, and adult literature suggests that further prospective trials may prove some benefit in ovarian tissue volume or time to initiation of treatment due to enhanced recovery.
Dysphonia of exceptional origin: lichen planus of the vocal fold — a case report of a very uncommon area affected by lichen planus
Authors: Pino Gisela Risson , Pérez Irene Rodríguez , Guede Beatriz Bhathal , Navarro José Granell
Published: April 2022

Background

Lichen planus is an immune-mediated chronic inflammatory condition of unknown origin that affects the skin and the mucosa. Lichen planus in the larynx is not common, and there are few cases reported in literature. We report an unusual case of lichen planus in the vocal fold.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 62-year-old Caucasian male with a 2-month history of persistent dysphonia and a smoking habit of about 10 cigarettes per day. He has no previous history of systemic disease, and he was not taking any drug for treatment. Fiber-optic laryngoscopy showed a single white rough lesion in the middle third of the right vocal fold. The diagnosis was performed with direct laryngoscopy. Complete excisional biopsy was used as a treatment method. Chest X-ray and blood test were normal. The biopsy reported lichen planus and mild dysplasia. The voice quality improved after the laryngeal microsurgery, and a close follow-up was advised.

Conclusions

There are few cases of lichen planus in the vocal fold reported in the literature, presenting as a unilateral and isolated lesion or concomitant with oral and genital lesions. Other cases mainly report lesions that affect more than one area of the larynx, with undefined margins or with marked cicatrization. Oral or topical corticosteroids, in this case, were not required because of total extirpation of the lesion but may be necessary in case of recurrence. Although lichen planus of vocal fold is very uncommon, it should be consider in differential diagnosis of leukoplakia of the larynx and once diagnosed could be manage with corticosteroid drugs avoiding aggressive treatment.
Opening the Pathway: An Example of Universal Design for Learning as a Guide to Inclusive Teaching Practices
Authors: Orndorf Hayley C. , Waterman Margaret , Lange Donna , Kavin Denise , Johnston Sam Catherine , Jenkins Kristin P.
Published: April 2022

The Opening the Pathway conference focused on raising awareness about careers in biotechnology and student success in introductory biology. The conference engaged participants in addressing the role of a Universal Design for Learning approach in building accessible, inclusive, productive learning environments, particularly for deaf/hh students.
Dissociative identity state-dependent working memory in dissociative identity disorder: a controlled functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Vissia Eline M. , Lawrence Andrew J. , Chalavi Sima , Giesen Mechteld E. , Draijer Nel , Nijenhuis Ellert R. S. , Aleman André , Veltman Dick J. , Reinders Antje A. T. S.
Published: April 2022

Background

Memory function is at the core of the psychopathology of dissociative identity disorder (DID), but little is known about its psychobiological correlates.

Aims

This study aims to investigate whether memory function in DID differs between dissociative identity states

Method

Behavioural data and neural activation patterns were assessed in 92 sessions during an n-back working memory task. Participants were people with genuine diagnosed DID (n = 14), DID-simulating controls (n = 16) and a paired control group (post-traumatic stress disorder (n = 16), healthy controls (n = 16)). Both DID groups participated as authentic or simulated neutral and trauma-related identity states. Reaction times and errors of omission were analysed with repeated measures ANOVA. Working memory neural activation (main working memory and linear load) was investigated for effects of identity state, participant group and their interaction.

Results

Identity state-dependent behavioural performance and neural activation was found. DID simulators made fewer errors of omission than those with genuine DID. Regarding the prefrontal parietal network, main working memory in the left frontal pole and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (Brodmann area 44) was activated in all three simulated neutral states, and in trauma-related identity states of DID simulators, but not those with genuine DID or post-traumatic stress disorder; for linear load, trauma-related identity states of those with genuine DID did not engage the parietal regions.

Conclusions

Behavioural performance and neural activation patterns related to working memory in DID are dependent on the dissociative identities involved. The narrowed consciousness of trauma-related identity states, with a proneness to re-experiencing traumatising events, may relate to poorer working memory functioning.
Clinical Benefit of Comprehensive Genomic Profiling for Advanced Cancers in India
Authors: Mathew Aju , Joseph Serena , Boby Jeffrey , Benny Steve , Veedu Janeesh , Rajappa Senthil , Rohatgi Nitesh , Sirohi Bhawna , Jain Reetu , Agarwala Vivek , Shukla Deepak Kumar , Mehta Anurag , Pramanik Raja , Talwar Vineet , Maka Vinayak , Raut Nirmal
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE

Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) assay is increasingly used in low-middle–income countries to detect clinically relevant genomic alterations despite its clinical benefits not being well known. Here, we describe the proportion of patients with advanced cancer in India who received targeted therapy for an actionable genetic alteration identified on CGP assays.

METHODS

This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study in adult patients with advanced nonhematologic malignancies who underwent a CGP test. If patients received a targeted therapy for ≥ 6 months, they were considered to have obtained a clinical benefit from the medication, whereas those continuing for ≥ 12 months were considered to have attained an exceptional response. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the proportion of patients with subsequent targeted therapy.

RESULTS

During 2019-2020, 12 medical oncologists provided CGP reports for 297 patients; 221 met the inclusion criteria. Patients received a median of two lines (range: 0-5) of prior systemic therapy. On the basis of the CGP assay, 21 patients (10%) received targeted therapy. Among them, 33% was for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) amplification (nonbreast cancer) and 19% for HER2 or epidermal growth factor receptor exon 20 insertion mutation (lung cancer). After excluding patients with HER2 or epidermal growth factor receptor exon 20 insertions, 8% of 217 patients received targeted therapy. In the overall cohort of 221 patients, clinical benefit was seen in nine patients (4%), of whom two were exceptional responders (1%).

CONCLUSION

We observed that in a low-middle–income country setting, 10% of patients received targeted therapy on the basis of CGP assay. Only 4% of patients who underwent CGP testing obtained a clinical benefit.