bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A real-world study to evaluate effectiveness of mepolizumab in treating severe asthma in Taiwan (REMIT)
Authors: Cheng Shih-Lung , Lin Shu-Min , Peng Chung-Kan , Chan Ming-Cheng , Shen Sheng-Yeh , Kuo Ping-Hung , Lai Chien-Hao , Lan Chou-Chin , Chen Chung-Yu , Lin Ching-Hsiung , Liao Kuang-Ming , Feng Po-Hao , Wu Jiin-Torng , Wei Yu-Feng , Xu Xiaomeng , Alfonso-Cristancho Rafael , Lai Tina , Navarro Aldo , Milea Dominique , Perng Diahn-Warng
Published: January 2025

Background:

REMIT is the first real-world study of mepolizumab effectiveness in patients with severe asthma (SA) in Taiwan.

Objectives:

The primary objective evaluated changes in clinically significant exacerbations (CSEs; defined as use of oral corticosteroids (OCS) or emergency department (ED) visits and/or hospitalizations) in the 12 months pre- and post-mepolizumab treatment. Secondary objectives assessed changes in the number of CSEs requiring ED visits/hospitalizations and daily maintenance OCS (mOCS) dosage 12 months pre- and post-mepolizumab treatment. Three- and four-component clinical remissions were analyzed based on OCS-free, exacerbation-free, and asthma control (± stability in lung function).

Design:

REMIT was a retrospective, observational, self-controlled study analyzing patients in Taiwan with SA who were newly prescribed subcutaneous mepolizumab 100 mg Q4W.

Methods:

Data were extracted from records of 15 medical centers in Taiwan for patients indexed between November 1, 2018 and October 31, 2020.

Results:

A total of 170 patients were included: mean age at index date, 58.7 years; 53.5% female; 100% Chinese; 7.1% with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, 1.8% with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, 1.2% with hypereosinophilic syndrome; and 55.7% with blood eosinophil count >300/µL. Pre-treatment, 71.2% had ⩾2 exacerbations, and 28.7% were on mOCS; 75.3% had no prior biologic treatment, and 24.7% had switched from other biologics. Most patients (80.0%) completed ⩾10 mepolizumab doses. Following the first mepolizumab administration (index date), CSEs reduced by 46.0% (rate ratio (RR): 0.545, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.418–0.710; p < 0.0001) in the 12 months post-index. Exacerbations requiring ED visits/hospitalization reduced by 46.9% (RR: 0.531, 95% CI: 0.349–0.808; p = 0.0031). Median mOCS dose reduced by 100% by end of study and 81.8% of patients discontinued mOCS post-treatment. After 1 year of mepolizumab treatment, 28% and 23% patients achieved three- and four-component clinical remission, respectively.

Conclusion:

Mepolizumab use in a patient population in Taiwan with SA significantly reduced CSEs and mOCS use in routine clinical practice.
Mycobacterium porcinum panniculitis in a cat from northern California
Authors: Lee Mary Ann , Woerde Dennis J , Reagan Krystle L , Wolf Tatiana G , Sykes Jane E
Published: January 2025

Case summary

A 9-year-old male castrated domestic shorthair cat from northern California was evaluated for a 12-month history of dermal and subcutaneous dermatitis in the inguinal region. Histopathologic examination of a biopsy revealed severe, chronic, multifocal to coalescing pyogranulomatous dermatitis and panniculitis, accompanied by ulceration and central necrosis. Aerobic bacterial culture of lesions yielded mycobacterial growth. Empiric antimicrobial therapy was initiated with doxycycline and marbofloxacin pending culture and susceptibility. Culture of a biopsy followed by rpoB gene sequencing at a mycobacterial reference laboratory yielded Mycobacterium porcinum after 6 weeks. Ten months after initial antimicrobial administration, the lesions resolved.

Relevance and novel information

To date, in cats, M porcinum panniculitis has been reported from Ohio, Massachusetts and British Columbia in North America; two additional cases were reported from southeastern Australia. In humans, M porcinum infections have been reported from several states in the USA, predominantly in the Midwest and coastal south, but not from the west. This report extends the known spatial distribution of M porcinum to the western USA and strengthens its association with panniculitis in cats. It also demonstrates the need for prolonged incubation for diagnosis of some rapidly growing mycobacteria infections using culture.
A Dialogic Approach to Enhancing Argumentative Writing From Multiple Texts
Authors: Shi (石雨晨) Yuchen , Iordanou Kalypso
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The study sought to examine the effectiveness of a dialogue-based argument intervention in enhancing Chinese middle school students’ integration of conflicting information from multiple texts in argumentative writing.

Design/Approach/Methods

The study followed a quasi-experimental design with pre-assessment and post-assessment, comparing seventh-grade intervention and non-participating control students’ individual post-assessment writing performance on a non-discourse topic involving genetically modified foods.

Findings

Intervention students outperformed control students in integrating textual evidence inconsistent with one's position. Specifically, intervention students were more successful in integrating position-inconsistent information with their prior knowledge or integrating multiple pieces of position-inconsistent information from one text or across multiple texts. Intervention students were also more successful in integrating two pieces of conflicting information. When judging text trustworthiness, intervention students trusted a primary source to a greater extent and showed greater gains in taking into consideration the epistemological aspect, as well as one's own or a text's position on the issue.

Originality/Value

The present study demonstrated the effectiveness of the dialogue-based argument curriculum in promoting Chinese middle school students’ ability to write integrated essays from multiple texts.
Feedback loop centered on MAF1 reduces blood–brain barrier damage in sepsis-associated encephalopathy
Authors: Wei Xuebiao , Jiang Wenqiang , Wang Zhonghua , Li Yichen , Jing Yuanwen , Han Yongli , Huang Linqiang , Chen Shenglong
Published: January 2025

Background

A previous study found that MAF1 homolog, a negative regulator of RNA polymerase III (MAF1), protects the blood–brain barrier (BBB) in sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE); however, the related molecular mechanisms remain unclear.

Subjects and methods

In this study, a rat sepsis model was constructed using the cecum ligation and puncture (CLP) method. In vitro, rat brain microvascular endothelial cells and astrocytes were stimulated with serum from the sepsis model rats. The loss of MAF1 protein levels and the molecular mechanisms leading to cell damage were investigated.

Results

It was shown in the SAE models that MAF1 was expressed at low levels. Knockdown of Cullin 2 (CUL2) stimulated the accumulation of MAF1 protein, attenuated the RNA sensor RIG-I/interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) signaling pathway, and reduced cell apoptosis. Furthermore, it increased phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression and inactivated the serine/threonine kinase (AKT)/mechanistic target of the rapamycin kinase (mTOR) signaling pathway. Interference with forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) inhibited MAF1 expression and activated the RIG-I/IRF3 signaling pathway, while MAF1 overexpression promoted PTEN expression, decreased cell apoptosis, and normalized autophagy.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that CUL2 promoted MAF1 ubiquitination and caused BBB injury in SAE. Through the regulatory loop of PTEN/AKT/FOXO1/MAF1, CUL2 initiated the gradual downregulation of MAF1, which subsequently regulated polymerase III (Pol III)-dependent transcription and played essential roles in cell apoptosis in SAE.

Clinical trial number: not applicable.

Graphical Abstract
Beyond destruction: emerging roles of the E3 ubiquitin ligase Hakai
Authors: Escuder-Rodríguez Juan-José , Rodríguez-Alonso Andrea , Jove Lía , Quiroga Macarena , Alfonsín Gloria , Figueroa Angélica
Published: January 2025

Hakai protein (CBLL1 gene) was identified as an E3 ubiquitin ligase of E-cadherin complex, inducing its ubiquitination and degradation, thus inducing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Most of the knowledge about the protein was associated to its E3 ubiquitin ligase canonical role. However, important recent published research has highlighted the noncanonical role of Hakai, independent of its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity, underscoring its involvement in the N
6-methyladenosine (m6A) writer complex and its impact on the methylation of RNA. The involvement of Hakai in this mRNA modification process has renewed the relevance of this protein as an important contributor in cancer. Moreover, Hakai potential as a cancer biomarker and its prognostic value in malignant disease also emphasize its untapped potential in precision medicine, which would also be discussed in detail in our review. The development of the first small-molecule inhibitor that targets its atypical substrate binding domain is a promising step that could eventually lead to patient benefit, and we would cover its discovery and ongoing efforts toward its use in clinic.

Graphical Abstract
Electroporation assisted delivery of Roussin salt porphyrin-based conjugated carbon nanoparticles for sono–X-ray–photodynamic prostate cancer in vitro and in vivo treatment
Authors: Abd El-Kaream Samir Ali , Mohamad Abed Elrahman Ahmad , El-Kholey Sohier Mahmoud , Ebied Samia Abd El-Moniem
Published: January 2025

Background

In the realm of cancer treatment, sono–X-ray–photodynamic therapy (SXPDT) has garnered significant interest as a novel therapeutic approach. The essential part of SXPDT is the sensitizer, which under X-ray photon and ultrasound sono-irradiation may transform sono and photo-energy into cytotoxic molecules. Photon absorption, targeting, penetration, and oxygen dependence remain challenges in sono–X-ray–photosensitizer (SXPs) design. Rapid advancements in material science have prompted the creation of several SXPs that create cytotoxic species with great selectivity, safety, and noninvasiveness for the treatment of tumors. The current study aims to provide an advanced method of activated cancer treatment by using electroporation to assist the delivery of Roussin salts porphyrin-based conjugated carbon nanoparticles (EP@RRBP-CNP) for the sono–X-ray–photodynamic prostate cancer (PCa) in vivo and in vitro treatment.

Materials and methods

Human PCa cells (DU-145) were used in the in vitro study, and the in vivo application groups of the study protocol were Swiss albino mice treated with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) / testosterone only; they were not given any treatment to induce PCa. The study treatment protocol started only after PCa induction, and involved daily administration of EP@RRBP-CNP as SXPDT sensitizer whether or not to be exposed to photo–(X-ray) or sono–(US) or a combination of them for 3 min for a period of 2 weeks.

Results

Indicated that CNP is a useful RRBP delivery mechanism that targets PCa cells directly. Furthermore, EP@RRBP-CNP is a promising SXPS that, when used in conjunction with SXPDT, can be very effective in in vitro treating PCa-DU-145 (in a dose-dependent manner cell viability declined, an increase in the cells population during the G0/G1-phase indicates that the cell cycle was arrested, and an increase in cell population in the Pre-G, autophagic cell death, as well as necrosis and early and late apoptosis, indicate that cell death was induced) and MNU/testosterone-PCa-induced mice in vivo (induced antiproliferative genes, p53, Bax, TNFalpha, caspase 3,9, repressed antiangiogenic and antiapoptotic genes, VEGF and Bcl2, respectively), successfully slowing the growth of tumors and even killing cancer cells, as well as lowering oxidative stress (MDA), improving the functions of the kidneys (urea, creatinine), liver (ALT, AST), and antioxidants (GPx, GPx, GST, CAT, GSH, TAC). SXPDT, the X-ray photo- or sono-chemical RRBP activation mechanism, and the antioxidant capacity of non-activated RRBP can all be linked to this process.

Conclusion

On the bases of the findings, EP@RRBP-CNP shows a great promise as a novel, efficient selective delivery system for localized SXPDT-activated prostate cancer treatment.
Benchmarking cell type annotation methods for 10x Xenium spatial transcriptomics data
Authors: Cheng Jinming , Jin Xinyi , Smyth Gordon K. , Chen Yunshun
Published: January 2025

Background

Imaging-based spatial transcriptomics technologies allow us to explore spatial gene expression profiles at the cellular level. Cell type annotation of imaging-based spatial data is challenging due to the small gene panel, but it is a crucial step for downstream analyses. Many good reference-based cell type annotation tools have been developed for single-cell RNA sequencing and sequencing-based spatial transcriptomics data. However, the performance of the reference-based cell type annotation tools on imaging-based spatial transcriptomics data has not been well studied yet.

Results

We compared performance of five reference-based methods (SingleR, Azimuth, RCTD, scPred and scmapCell) with the marker-gene-based manual annotation method on an imaging-based Xenium data of human breast cancer. A practical workflow has been demonstrated for preparing a high-quality single-cell RNA reference, evaluating the accuracy, and estimating the running time for reference-based cell type annotation tools.

Conclusions

SingleR was the best performing reference-based cell type annotation tool for the Xenium platform, being fast, accurate and easy to use, with results closely matching those of manual annotation.
Study protocol: multi-centre, randomised controlled clinical trial exploring stromal targeting in locally advanced pancreatic cancer; STARPAC2
Authors: Kocher Hemant M. ,   BCI-STARPAC2 team, Ackermann Charlotte , Priyadarshini Garima , Lawrence Cheryl , Kotriwala Nishtha , Georgescu Ramona ,   BPTB team, Roberts Rhiannon , Hughes Christine , Imrali Ahmet , Chelala Claude ,   Precision-Panc team, Dixon-Hughes Judith , Chang David K. , Sasieni Peter , Corrie Pippa , McNamara Mairéad G. , Sarker Debashis , Froeling Fieke E. M. , Christie Alan , Gillmore Roopinder , Khan Khurum , Propper David
Published: January 2025

Background

Pancreatic cancer (PDAC: pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the commonest form), a lethal disease, is best treated with surgical excision but is feasible in less than a fifth of patients. Around a third of patients presentlocally advanced, inoperable, non-metastatic (laPDAC), whose stadrd of care is palliative chemotherapy; a small minority are down-sized sufficiently to enable surgical excision. We propose a phase II clinical trial to test whether a combination of standard chemotherapy (gemcitabine & nab-Paclitaxel: GEM-NABP) and repurposing All Trans Retinoic Acid (ATRA) to target the stroma may extend progression-free survival and enable successful surgical resection for patients with laPDAC, since data from phase IB clinical trial demonstrate safety of GEM-NABP-ATRA combination to patients with advanced PDAC with potential therapeutic benefit.

Methods

Patients with laPDAC will receive at least six cycles of GEM-NABP with 1:1 randomisation to receive this with or without ATRA to assess response, until progression or intolerance. Those with stable/responding disease may undergo surgical resection. Primary endpoint is progression free survival (PFS) defined as the time from the date of randomisation to the date of first documented tumour progression (response evaluation criteria in solid tumours [RECIST] v1.1) or death from any cause, whichever occurs first. Secondary endpoints include objective response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS), safety and tolerability, surgical resection rate, R0 surgical resection rate and patient reported outcome measures (PROMS) as measured by questionnaire EQ-5D-5L. Exploratory endpoints include a decrease or increase in CA19-9 and serum Vitamin A over time correlated with ORR, PFS, and OS.

Discussion

STARPAC2 aims to assess the role of stromal targeting in laPDAC.

Trial registration

EudraCT: 2019–004231-23; NCT04241276; ISRCTN11503604.
Enhanced spatial analysis assessing the association between PFAS-contaminated water and cancer incidence: rationale, study design, and methods
Authors: Jones Resa M. , Kulick Erin R. , Snead Ryan , Wilson Robin Taylor , Hughes John , Lillys Ted
Published: January 2025

Background

Cancer is a complex set of diseases, and many have decades-long lag times between possible exposure and diagnosis. Environmental exposures, such as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and area-level risk factors (e.g., socioeconomic variables), vary for people over time and space. Evidence suggests PFAS exposure is associated with several cancers; however, studies to date have various limitations. Few studies have used rigorous spatiotemporal approaches, and, to our knowledge, none have assessed cumulative exposures given residential histories or incorporated chemical mixture modeling. Thus, spatiotemporal analysis using advanced statistical approaches, accounting for spatially structured and unstructured heterogeneity in risk, can be a highly informative strategy for addressing the potential health effects of PFAS exposure.

Methods

Using population-based incident cancer cases and cancer-free controls in a 12-county area of southeastern Pennsylvania, we will apply Bayesian spatiotemporal analysis methods using historically reconstructed PFAS-contaminated water exposure given residential histories, and other potential cancer determinants over time. Bayesian group index models enable assessment of various mixtures of highly correlated PFAS chemical exposures incorporating mobility/residential history, and contextual factors to determine the association of PFAS-related exposures and cancer incidence.

Discussion

The purpose of this paper is to describe the Enhanced PFAS Spatial Analysis study rationale, study design, and methods.
Experiences of change following a blended intervention for adults with ADHD and emotion dysregulation: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Nordby Emilie S. , Schønning Viktor , Barnes Alice , Denyer Hayley , Kuntsi Jonna , Lundervold Astri J. , Guribye Frode
Published: January 2025

Background

Emotion dysregulation commonly co-occurs with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), leading to a range of negative outcomes. While psychological interventions have shown promise in bringing about positive changes in emotional and cognitive domains, there is still limited knowledge on the subjective experiences of change among the participants in these interventions.

Aim

The present study explores the experiences of adults with ADHD who had participated in a blended digital and face-to-face intervention aimed at improving emotion dysregulation. The study focuses on understanding their experiences of change and identifying contributors to change.

Methods

A total of 9 adults with ADHD participated in individual semi-structured, in-depth interviews following their participation in the intervention. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

The thematic analysis resulted in three core themes. The first theme, ‘perceiving change’, represents changes that the participants experienced, with four subthemes: 1a) being in control, 1b) feeling aware, 1c) accepting oneself and one’s emotions and 1d) gaining insight and knowledge. The second theme, ‘supporting change’, captures factors that supported the participants’ changes, with five subthemes: 2a) acquiring skills, 2b) being in it together, 2c) therapist guidance, 2d) finding motivation 2e) putting it into practice. Lastly, the third theme, ‘sustaining change’, includes aspects important to maintain change, with two subthemes: 3a) working consistently and 3b) giving it time.

Conclusions

The findings show that the participants experienced various changes related to the management of their emotions following their participation in the intervention. Change was perceived as a multifaceted process, supported by internal factors such as motivation and engagement, along with external factors such as support from the other group members and the therapists. Taken together, the findings from the study could be important to the development of psychological interventions for adults with ADHD and may provide valuable knowledge to clinicians and policymakers.

Trial registration

Registered on 21st November 2022 at ClinicalTrials.gov. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05644028.
Evaluating access to psychosocial services for the medicaid-insured children in Georgia
Authors: Xie Yujia , Harati Pravara , Rajbhandari-Thapa Janani , Serban Nicoleta
Published: January 2025

Background

Evaluating access to psychosocial services can inform policy decision-making on ways to address shortages in the availability of mental health (MH)-specialized providers. The objective of the study was to assess how the mental health (MH)-specialized workforce met the demand for psychosocial services of Medicaid-insured children in Georgia, with direct relevance in establishing quantitative network adequacy.

Methods

We used the 2018 Medicaid (TAF) claims data, the 2018 National Plan and Provider Enumeration System database, and the 2019 Georgia school-based program data to estimate community-level demand and practice-level supply of psychosocial services. We evaluated the availability of services using mathematical models. The outcome measures were met demand and travel distance. We explored the impact of increasing in-home care delivery, expanding Medicaid participation, or increasing caseload for the Medicaid-participating providers on improving met demand for psychosocial services.

Results

Our findings showed that 34% of the demand from Medicaid-insured children in Georgia remained unmet, and 25% of the Georgia census tracts (rural 79%; urban 16%) had < 50% service coverage. The travel distance for in-clinic services was 3.84 miles on average. Increasing provider Medicaid caseload or expanding Medicaid participation, resulting in a 5–40% supply increase, would reduce unmet demand to 7% and decrease the number of unserved and underserved census tracts to 3% and 2% respectively. Meeting 75% of the demand required a 15% increase in the supply.

Conclusions

The main source of network inadequacy was the scarcity of MH providers available to Medicaid-insured children in Georgia, coming from both the limited caseload of existing MH providers and low Medicaid participation, rather than travel constraints. Increasing provider caseload and expanding Medicaid participation were found to reduce unmet demand. Interventions increasing caseloads were the most effective intervention since existing Medicaid-participating providers already had sufficient network coverage geographically.
Evaluating the synergy: anxiety prevalence and alcohol consumption patterns in high-income countries using Granger causality analysis
Authors: Senarathne Binguni , Palliyaguru Dinithi , Oshini Anne , Gamage Janudi , Jayathilaka Ruwan , Rajamanthri Lochana , Wickramarachchi Colinie
Published: January 2025

Background

Alcohol consumption frequently experiences episodes of severe anxiety. This study set out to explore the long-term effects of alcohol consumption on anxiety, revealing insights into how alcohol consumption uniquely impact anxiety, aiming to inform mental health and public health approaches. This research paper explores the complex relationship between the prevalence of anxiety and the consumption patterns of wine, beer, and spirits across fifty-two high-income countries with a continental analysis.

Method

By employing significant secondary data taken from the World Health Organization and Our World in Data online databases and covering the period from 1990 to 2019, this study seeks to explore various causality relationships over this period. Its primary objective is to fill the empirical gap in existing research by using Granger causality analysis to reveal the dynamic relationships between the consumption of alcohol and the prevalence of anxiety. This study endeavours to provide a continental analysis of the high-income countries, which allows for including a comprehensive viewpoint in the context of a single investigation.

Results

The findings demonstrate a variety of patterns of causality in alcohol consumption and anxiety prevalence in a one-way causal relationship across specific continents, a bidirectional relationship in others, and no apparent causal relationship in several countries.

Conclusion

The inference made from the study’s results goes beyond scholarly curiosity; it establishes the foundation for further investigations and the development of customised policies aimed at reducing the mutually reinforcing dangers of alcohol consumption and anxiety disorders.
Referring psychiatric patients to occupational health services for earlier return to work – a qualitative implementation study of barriers and facilitators
Authors: Henriksson Mikko , Tikka Christina , Juvonen-Posti Pirjo , Virtanen Marianna , Oksanen Tuula
Published: January 2025

Background

Mental disorders are a major public health challenge, and their prevalence is globally increasing. They substantially affect work ability, quality of life, and the number of years of disability. A new model for referring psychiatric patients to occupational health services (OHS) aims to improve the continuity of care and to promote the early return to work (RTW) of workers with diagnosed mental health conditions. The purpose of this qualitative implementation study was to identify the facilitators of and barriers to implementing the new model.

Methods

We used the Quality Implementation Framework and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) as theoretical frameworks. We interviewed the developers of the model and the psychiatrists and occupational health physicians who deliver it. We invited forty participants to join the study, 17 of whom consented. We conducted nine semi-structured group and individual interviews. Data analysis consisted of analysing the sessions, systematically coding the transcribed texts according to the main domains of CFIR, thematic analysis, and identifying the overarching themes and context-related mechanisms.

Results

We identified three overarching themes crucially related to the implementation of the model: uncertainty about the scope and boundaries of the cooperation in the model, ambiguity about the size of the target group, and the existing sociocultural and self-stigma related to mental illness. Shared belief in the importance and the positive effects of the model and trust in the developers were the main facilitators of the implementation of the model. The main barriers were the limited availability of the e-referral system between the psychiatrists and OHS, uncertainty regarding the number of eligible patients, and the low number of actual referrals during implementation.

Conclusion

Collaborative models in mental health care should accommodate various stakeholders from different sectors involved in the treatment and rehabilitation of workers with diagnosed mental health conditions. Helping health care workers contact possible cooperation partners and knowing how to address important individual, workplace-related and sociocultural factors such as stigma may strengthen collaboration between different sectors and stakeholders in mental health care. Future studies should focus on the multi-actor feasibility of the new collaborative models and include the patients’ perspective.
After neonatal care, what next? A qualitative study of mothers’ post-discharge experiences after premature birth in Kenya
Authors: Maluni Justinah , Oluoch Dorothy , Molyneux Sassy , Boga Mwanamvua , Jones Caroline , Murila Florence , English Mike , Ziebland Sue , Hinton Lisa
Published: January 2025

Background

Approximately 15 million babies are born prematurely every year worldwide. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and Asia account for more than half of the global preterm deliveries. Prominent healthcare structural and socio-economic factors in SSA, for example poverty and weak health systems, amplify vulnerabilities for mothers and premature babies; often leading to poor outcomes. Post-discharge mortality rates are high, and readmission is common. For mothers of premature babies, the transition home from hospital is marked by challenges and uncertainties. This study explored the post-discharge experiences of mothers of premature babies with the aim of identifying their needs and suggests strategies to strengthen and support their discharge preparation to care for their premature baby at home, and to and reduce mortality and readmission rates.

Methods

Narrative interviews were conducted face-to-face in English or Swahili with 34 mothers of premature babies recruited from two public hospitals and a social support group in Nairobi, Kenya between August—November 2021. Interviews were audio and video-recorded and transcribed for analysis. After transcription, the interviews were translated, where applicable, and thematic analysis was undertaken.

Results

For mothers of premature babies, discharge from neonatal care and the transition home is a complex process marked with mixed emotions; many reported feeling unprepared and facing stigma while in hospital and in their communities. Mothers described the emotional challenges of discharge from the neonatal unit and their information and support needs. Minimal involvement in their baby’s care while in the neonatal unit appeared to contribute to the mothers’ lack of confidence in caring for their babies independently post-discharge when they no longer had the support of the clinical and nursing staff. Insufficient information provided on discharge hindered a smooth transition to home, highlighting the need for information to support mothers’ confidence after discharge. Stigma relating to beliefs around preterm births was experienced by some of the mothers in the community and within some health clinics.

Conclusions

To support transitions home, strengthening the timing and adequacy of information provided to mothers at discharge from the neonatal unit in low-income settings in SSA and Asia – such as Kenya—is essential. Introducing strategies to build and assess mothers’ competencies with skills such as breastfeeding and identifying signs of deterioration before discharge could support their smooth transition home. Targeted engagement interventions at the community level could demystify and address stigma and knowledge gaps about premature deliveries at the community and social levels more broadly and within the health system.
“You wished the ground would open and swallow you up”: Expert opinions on shame, the collective, and other cultural considerations for suicide prevention among Asian American and Pacific Islander veterans
Authors: Polzer Evan R. , Rohs Carly M. , Iglesias Christe’An D. , Mignogna Joseph , Krishnamurti Lauren S. , Holliday Ryan , Monteith Lindsey L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Rates of suicide remain elevated among U.S. Veterans and have increased disproportionately among Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Veterans. Knowledge is limited regarding suicide prevention considerations for clinicians working with AAPI Veterans, yet culturally responsive strategies tend to be most effective. To address this gap, we sought to elucidate subject matter experts’ perspectives regarding suicide prevention considerations for AAPI Veterans.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 key informants (e.g., clinicians, researchers) in 2023 to understand their experiences with, and recommendations for, preventing suicide among AAPI Veterans in the Continental U.S. Interview transcripts were analyzed through thematic analysis, with an inductive approach.

Results

Key informants discussed the heterogeneity of the AAPI population and emphasized the need to balance cultural sensitivity and cultural humility in suicide prevention with AAPI Veterans. Fear of bringing shame and dishonor upon one’s family was described as a factor which may prevent AAPI Veterans from disclosing mental health concerns and suicide risk and which may prevent them from accessing healthcare services for mental health and suicidality. Suicide risk among AAPI Veterans was viewed as being shaped by shame and the centrality of the family-collective, with family conferring both protection against and risk for suicide. Cultural norms and beliefs regarding suicide were considered pertinent to suicide among AAPI Veterans and included beliefs about perseverance in coping with distress to permittance of suicide in specific circumstances. Somatic idioms were described as a means by which AAPI Veterans may communicate distress and suicidality, with key informants discussing how this may impact treatment and outreach.

Conclusion

Key informant interviews provided crucial insights into cultural factors salient to conceptualizing and addressing AAPI Veterans’ risk for suicide. These findings can be utilized to inform tailored suicide prevention for this population, with emphasis on addressing mental health stigma, considering somatic idioms of distress, and considering the role of family in suicide risk and prevention.
An improved carrier-phase-based method for precise time synchronization using the observations from the China Space Station-ground synchronization system
Authors: Guo Yanming , Pan Zhibing , Gong Xuewen , Gao Shuaihe , Wang Pei , Bai Yan , Song Kun , Zhou Chen , Gao Yuping , Lu Xiaochun , Zhang Shougang
Published: January 2025

The development of precise time synchronization technology is key to the effective application of time–frequency standards. It will significantly promote the application of precise time–frequency standards in the areas such as Positioning, Navigation, and Timing, lunar navigation, and cutting-edge fundamental physics research. This study presents an improved carrier-phase-based method for time synchronization, which was demonstrated through both laboratory and satellite-ground experiments via the China Space Station (CSS)-ground synchronization system. Initial laboratory experiments confirmed the system’s stability, achieving picosecond-level accuracy, highlighting the robustness of the method in controlled environments. Then, preliminary satellite-to-ground synchronization experiments were conducted using the CSS and ground stations, validating the effectiveness of the carrier-phase-based method. The time synchronization accuracy reached the picosecond-level, significantly surpassing traditional pseudocode techniques, which typically achieve sub-nanosecond level accuracy. Additionally, the Allan Deviation results indicated an improvement in stability by about an order of magnitude compared to traditional pseudocode-based methods. This demonstrates that the carrier-phase-based method can effectively mitigate common sources of system errors and enhance time synchronization capabilities. Therefore, this method can provide an effective technical reference for future applications requiring higher precision in time synchronization.
A meta-analysis of whole blood transcriptome reveals genes associated with increased neutrophil activity and T cell suppression in sepsis
Authors: Shruthi T. N. , Kolandaswamy Anbazhagan , Somanna Prabakara
Published: January 2025

Background

Sepsis is a multi-organ dysfunction due to an uncontrolled host-response to pathogens, a leading cause of mortality in intensive care unit. Understanding the underlying mechanism associated with sepsis is essential for discovering biomarkers for better management and treatment. Though several genes are associated with severity of sepsis, there exists vast heterogeneity among gene expression studies. Hence our study was limited to transcriptome data derived solely from whole blood to understand the pathogenesis and immune regulation in sepsis.

Methods

We considered six publically available whole blood transcriptome gene expression omnibus (GEO) datasets and analyzed them using GEO2R. DESeq-R package was used to identify differentially expressed genes. Significant (p-value ≤ 0.05 and log fold change ≤ − 1.5 or ≥  + 1.5) common genes from six studies were subjected to network analysis and functional enrichment analysis to identify enriched Gene ontology (GO) terms, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways and hub genes.

Results

Gene expression data resulted in 233 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 146 genes were up-regulated and 87 genes were down-regulated. Through network and functional enrichment analysis, 20 hub genes were found, 11 genes were up-regulated, and nine genes were down-regulated. The up-regulated genes (CD177, MMP8, ARG1, IL18R1, RETN, LTF, S100A12, S100A8, S1000A9, MMP9, and ELANE) were associated with the innate immune system and regulate neutrophil activity. Down-regulated genes (FCERIA, IL7R, CCR7, CX3CR1, CD3G, CD40LG, CD247, CD3E, and GZMK) were associated with adaptive immune response, T cell function, and antigen processing and presentation.

Conclusion

The GO terms, pathways, and the genes associated with increased neutrophil activity were found to be up-regulated and T cell function were down-regulated. Dysregulation of immune response, imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory response, apoptosis, and anti-apoptotic genes were found to be associated with immunosuppression and increased inflammatory reaction during sepsis. The genes identified through functional analysis could be used as potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets for sepsis conditions.
A comparative study between central quadrantectomy and nipple resection with areola preservation Versus Grisotti flap mammoplasty in central breast lesions extending to nipple: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Awad Philobater Bahgat Adly , Hassan Basma Hussein Abdelaziz , Awad Abanoub Adel Shafek , Attaia Abdelrahman Ahmed Younis Mohamed , Awad Kerolos Bahgat Adly , Hanafy Dina Mohamed , Osman Ahmed Gamal El Din
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate central quadrantectomy and nipple resection with areola preservation (CQ-NR-AP) as a new reconstructive oncoplastic technique Versus Grisotti flap mammoplasty (GFM) in central malignant tumors of the breast extending to the nipple, in terms of time procedures, breast symmetry, patient satisfaction, postoperative complications, and local recurrence.

Patients and methods

The current study is a single-blind, single-center, randomized, controlled trial that was performed between May 2018 and May 2023 in the breast surgery unit of University Hospitals. This trial involved 40 individuals who had central breast lesions that extended to the nipple and were monitored for two years following surgery.

Results

As regards the mean intra-operative time in minutes, in the group (I) was 80.1 with a standard deviation of ± 13.9, and ingroup (II) was 138.9 with a standard deviation of ± 14.02 (p = 0.001). The seroma was detected in zero cases in group (I) and 2(10%) cases in group II (p = 0.487) and those two cases were managed by aspiration only. Regarding, the wound infection was found in one case (5%) in group (I) and 3(15%) cases in group II (p = 0.605). Regarding patient satisfaction and breast, symmetry was much better in the group (I).

Conclusion

The safety and ease of central quadrantectomy and nipple resection with areola preservation were demonstrated in a two-year follow-up, with a lower incidence of complications compared to the Grisotti flap mammoplasty technique. Furthermore, this approach was associated with higher patient satisfaction, which is a significant achievement in the management of centrally located breast tumors.

Trial registration

PACTR202405688323721. 28/05/2024.
Sex differences in ventricular-vascular interactions associated with aerobic capacity
Authors: Morrison Barbara N. , Mittermaier Peter M. , Lester Garth R. , Bodner Michael E. , Cote Anita T.
Published: January 2025

Background

Aerobic capacity measured by maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) is related to functional capacity and is a strong independent predictor of all-cause and disease-specific mortality. Sex-specific cardiac and vascular responses to endurance training have been observed, however, their relative contributions to VO2max are less understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate sex-specific ventricular-vascular interactions associated with VO2max in healthy males and females.

Methods

Sixty-eight males and females (38% females, 35 ± 10y) characterised as recreational exercisers to highly trained endurance athletes, and free of chronic disease underwent a cycle ergometer to assess VO2max. Resting arterial compliance and echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular (LV) structure and function were measured and indexed to body surface area.

Results

VO2max was similar between groups (54 ± 6 vs. 50 ± 7 ml/kg/min, p = 0.049). Indexed LV mass (LVMi) was higher (96 ± 15 vs. 81 ± 11, p = 0.001) in males versus females, respectively. Linear regression analysis revealed two models that were significantly associated with VO2max in males and females. In males, the two models included (1) longitudinal diastolic strain rate and LVMi (r2 = 0.31, p = 0.003) and (2) indexed end-diastolic volume (EDVi) and longitudinal diastolic strain rate (r2 = 0.34, p < 0.001). In females, the linear regression models included (1) LVMi, large arterial compliance, longitudinal systolic strain rate, and age (r2 = 0.69, p < 0.001) and (2) EDVi, large arterial compliance, longitudinal systolic strain rate, and age (r2 = 0.52, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

These findings reveal that while in both sexes, LVMi and LVEDVi are associated with VO2max, arterial compliance was also found to contribute to the variance in VO2 max in females, but not in males. Further, ventricular relaxation was a significant factor in aerobic capacity in males, while in females ventricular contraction was a significant factor.
Semantic search helper: A tool based on the use of embeddings in multi-item questionnaires as a harmonization opportunity for merging large datasets – A feasibility study
Authors: Gottfried Karl , Janson Karina , Holz Nathalie E. , Reis Olaf , Kornhuber Johannes , Eichler Anna , Banaschewski Tobias , Nees Frauke ,   IMAC-Mind Consortium
Published: January 2025

Background

Recent advances in natural language processing (NLP), particularly in language processing methods, have opened new avenues in semantic data analysis. A promising application of NLP is data harmonization in questionnaire-based cohort studies, where it can be used as an additional method, specifically when only different instruments are available for one construct as well as for the evaluation of potentially new construct-constellations. The present article therefore explores embedding models’ potential to detect opportunities for semantic harmonization.

Methods

Using models like SBERT and OpenAI’s ADA, we developed a prototype application (“Semantic Search Helper”) to facilitate the harmonization process of detecting semantically similar items within extensive health-related datasets. The approach’s feasibility and applicability were evaluated through a use case analysis involving data from four large cohort studies with heterogeneous data obtained with a different set of instruments for common constructs.

Results

With the prototype, we effectively identified potential harmonization pairs, which significantly reduced manual evaluation efforts. Expert ratings of semantic similarity candidates showed high agreement with model-generated pairs, confirming the validity of our approach.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the potential of embeddings in matching semantic similarity as a promising add-on tool to assist harmonization processes of multiplex data sets and instruments but with similar content, within and across studies.
PI3K/AKT/mTOR Activation Is Associated With Malignant Severity and Poorer Prognosis in Parathyroid Carcinomas
Authors: Song Jia-xi , Dong Yong-qiang , Han Ru-lai , Xie Jing , Zhu An-ying , Chen Xi , Yang Yu-ying , Sheng Chun-xiang , Jiang Tao , Zhao Hong-yan , Tao Bei , Ning Guang , Wang Wei-qing , Sun Li-hao , Ye Lei , Lu Xiu-bo , Liu Jian-min
Published: January 2025

Context and Objective

Parathyroid carcinoma (PCa) is a rare endocrine neoplasm known for its high recurrence. The specific molecular properties influencing the prognosis of PCa remain largely elusive. The present study was designed to explore the significance of PI3K/AKT/mTOR activation in PCa.

Methods

Over a 10-year period, 64 PCa patients were recruited from dual centers. We analyzed mechanistic target of rapamycin complex I (mTORC1) activity in 64 PCa patients and 29 controls, comprising atypical parathyroid tumor (APT), parathyroid adenoma (PAd), and normal parathyroid tissues. A panel of selected genes targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway (PIK3CA, PTEN, MTOR, TSC1, and TSC2) and CDC73 was performed in 66 available tumor tissues from 64 patients with PCa. Follow-up lasted up to 117 months.

Results

There was intertumoral heterogeneity in mTORC1 activity in parathyroid tumors. Notably, we observed significantly elevated mTORC1 activity in PCa patients compared with controls, as assessed by immunohistochemical staining of tissue sections. Further analysis showed that 48.5% of PCa tumors were classified as “high mTORC1” (above the predefined threshold), while only 22.7% of tumors in the PAd/APT group met this criterion. Additionally, we detected PI3K/AKT/mTOR variants in 16/66 (24.2%) PCa samples, with the majority lacking CDC73 variants. Higher mTORC1 activity was noted in PCa with PI3K/AKT/mTOR variants than in those without. Compared with those without any targeted variants, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR-mutated group presented higher levels of serum PTH, alkaline phosphatase, and creatinine and was associated with significantly lower disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) (DFS, P < .001; OS, P < .01).

Conclusion

Our findings highlight that the activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathyway in PCa patients suggests their degree of malignancy, possibly leading to poor outcomes.
Fundamentals of demographic analysis with elements of mathematical demography
Authors: Ediev Dalhat
Published: January 2025

The textbook is devoted to the presentation of methods of demographic analysis and demographic models that are in demand in the practice of analyzing the structure, fertility, mortality, migration and reproduction of the population. It was the result of many years of teaching subjects in mathematical demography, demographic analysis, mortality analysis and demographic forecasting, as well as the practical and research experience of the author.
Meets the requirements of the latest generation of federal state educational standards for higher education.
For students and postgraduates studying demographic methods and modeling, researchers and practitioners of demographic analysis and forecasting.
Web design
Authors: Barkovich Aleksandr , Filimonova Taisa
Published: January 2025

The tutorial covers important aspects of web design and allows you to acquire professional competence in the field of creating and developing web resources. The features of this manual are its versatility and adaptability. All the necessary basic information is presented concisely and detailed practice-oriented material with the necessary explanations is systematically presented. It will be useful both for specialists who already have some experience in the field of information technology, and for beginners. It allows you to master a problem area both under the guidance of a teacher and independently.
For students of technical and humanitarian higher education institutions studying academic subjects related to information services and web design.