bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Major alteration of motor control during rapid eye movements sleep in mice models of sleep disorders
Authors: Grenot Maxime , Roman Alexis , Villalba Manon , Morel Anne-Laure , Fort Patrice , Arthaud Sébastien , Libourel Paul-Antoine , Peyron Christelle
Published: August 2024

Alteration of motor control during rapid eye movements (REM) sleep has been extensively described in sleep disorders, in particular in isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) and narcolepsy type 1 (NT1). NT1 is caused by the loss of orexin/hypocretin (ORX) neurons. Unlike in iRBD, the RBD comorbid symptoms of NT1 are not associated with alpha-synucleinopathies. To determine whether the chronic absence of ORX neuropeptides is sufficient to induce RBD symptoms, we analyzed during REM sleep the EMG signal of the prepro-hypocretin knockout mice (ORX−/−), a recognized mouse model of NT1. Then, we evaluated the severity of motor alterations by comparing the EMG data of ORX−/− mice to those of mice with a targeted suppression of the sublaterodorsal glutamatergic neurotransmission, a recognized rodent model of iRBD. We found a significant alteration of tonic and phasic components of EMG during REM sleep in ORX−/− mice, with more phasic events and more REM sleep episodes without atonia compared to the control wild-type mice. However, these phasic events were fewer, shorter, and less complex in ORX−/− mice compared to the RBD-like ORX−/− mice. We thus show that ORX deficiency, as seen in NT1, is sufficient to impair muscle atonia during REM sleep with a moderate severity of alteration as compared to isolated RBD mice. As described in NT1 patients, we report a major interindividual variability in the severity and frequency of RBD symptoms in ORX-deficient mice.
Glutaminase-1 inhibition alleviates senescence of Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells via senolysis
Authors: Lee Eun Joo , Kim Sun Jeong , Jeon Su Yeon , Chung Soobeen , Park Sang Eon , Kim Jae‑Sung , Choi Suk-Joo , Oh Soo-Young , Ryu Gyu Ha , Jeon Hong Bae , Chang Jong Wook
Published: August 2024

Replicative senescence of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) caused by repeated cell culture undermines their potential as a cell therapy because of the reduction in their proliferation and therapeutic potential. Glutaminase-1 (GLS1) is reported to be involved in the survival of senescent cells, and inhibition of GLS1 alleviates age-related dysfunction via senescent cell removal. In the present study, we attempted to elucidate the association between MSC senescence and GLS1. We conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments to analyze the effect of GLS1 inhibition on senolysis and the therapeutic effects of MSCs. Inhibition of GLS1 in Wharton’s jelly-derived MSCs (WJ-MSCs) reduced the expression of aging-related markers, such as p16, p21, and senescence-associated secretory phenotype genes, by senolysis. Replicative senescence-alleviated WJ-MSCs, which recovered after short-term treatment with bis-2-(5-phenylacetamido-1,2,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)ethyl sulfide 3 (BPTES), showed increased proliferation and therapeutic effects compared to those observed with senescent WJ-MSCs. Moreover, compared to senescent WJ-MSCs, replicative senescence-alleviated WJ-MSCs inhibited apoptosis in serum-starved C2C12 cells, enhanced muscle formation, and hindered apoptosis and fibrosis in mdx mice. These results imply that GLS1 inhibition can ameliorate the therapeutic effects of senescent WJ-MSCs in patients with muscle diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In conclusion, GLS1 is a key factor in modulating the senescence mechanism of MSCs, and regulation of GLS1 may enhance the therapeutic effects of senescent MSCs, thereby increasing the success rate of clinical trials involving MSCs.
Assessment of synthetic food dye erythrosine induced cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, biochemical and molecular alterations in Allium cepa root meristematic cells: insights from in silico study
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Chadha Pooja
Published: August 2024

Background

Synthetic food dyes are being exponentially used in food products and scarce studies regarding their toxicities and safety raise concern. Erythrosine is one of the synthetic food dyes being used in jams, fig, pineapple marmalades, dairy products, soft drinks, pickles, relishes, smoked fish, cheese, ketchup, maraschino cherries and a variety of other foods.

Methodology

In this study the cyto-genotoxic effect of erythrosine was evaluated, using root meristematic cells of Allium cepa for the cellular and molecular alternations at concentrations 0.1, 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg/mL.

Results

The results revealed a significant decrease of 57.81% in the mitotic index after 96 h at the 0.1 mg/mL concentration. In biochemical analysis, the malondialdehyde content increased significantly (5.47-fold), while proline content, catalase activity and superoxide dismutase activity decreased gradually in a concentration-dependent manner showing a maximum decrease of 78.11%, 64.68% and 61.73% respectively at the highest concentration after 96 h duration. The comet assay revealed increased DNA damage with increasing concentration and attenuated total reflectance- Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) analysis showed significant alterations in biomolecules as indicated by multivariate analysis, i.e. Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Furthermore, molecular docking demonstrated a strong binding energy (Gbest = −11.46 kcal/mol) and an inhibition constant (Ki) of 3.96 nM between erythrosine and the DNA minor groove.

Conclusion

The present study’s findings revealed the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of erythrosine on A. cepa root cells. Further, the study also proposed the usefulness of A. cepa as a model system for studying the toxicity of food additives.

Highlights Erythrosine showed prominent cytotoxicity with complete inhibition of mitosis at 0.25 mg/mL conc. High level of genotoxicity revealed by 3.68-fold increment in chromosomal aberrations (CAs) frequency at lowest concentration (0.1 mg/mL). The increased MDA level, reduced CAT, SOD activity and proline content showed significant biochemical changes in antioxidant system. Alternations in biomolecules viz. protein, lipid and nucleic acid region showed by ATR-FITR spectrum and confirmed statistically by multivariate analysis of spectrum. In silico model supports the finding as the lower binding free energy of −11.46 kcal/mol between erythrosine and DNA structure was calculated.
Draft Genome Resource of a Wolbachia Endosymbiont in Heterodera humuli
Authors: Núñez-Rodríguez Lester A. , Wram Catherine L. , Hesse Cedar , Zasada Inga A.
Published: August 2024

The bacterial endosymbiont Wolbachia is known to be associated with different arthropods and only two genera of plant-parasitic nematodes, Pratylenchus and Radopholus. This effort employed a genome skimming approach to discover the presence of endosymbionts in a population of Heterodera humuli sequenced with PacBio long-read sequencing. Wolbachia was found associated with the nematode. The genome of this Wolbachia is 1,051,007 bp and has a GC percentage (32.6%) within the expected range for the genus. A phylogenetic analysis placed the Wolbachia strain from H. humuli in a clade with another nematode-associated Wolbachia strain reported in Texas, with a bootstrap value of 1. To our knowledge, this is the first published report of Wolbachia associated with H. humuli, expanding the known association of this endosymbiont to three genera of plant-parasitic nematodes. This finding will enhance sequence resources for further comparisons of Wolbachia diversity.

[Formula: see text] The author(s) have dedicated the work to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 “No Rights Reserved” license by waiving all of his or her rights to the work worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law, 2024.
Lysosomal membrane protein TMEM106B modulates hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation by regulating LAMP2A stability
Authors: Guo Di , Xiong Hongbo , Yang Zhongcheng , Zhang Rui , Shi Pengcheng , Yao Yufeng , Liu Mugen , Xu Chengqi , Wang Qing K.
Published: August 2024

Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are successfully employed for hematological transplantations, and impaired HSPC function causes hematological diseases and aging. HSPCs maintain the lifelong homeostasis of blood and immune cells through continuous self‐renewal and maintenance of the multilineage differentiation potential. TMEM106B is a transmembrane protein localized on lysosomal membranes and associated with neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases; however, its roles in HSPCs and hematopoiesis are unknown. Here, we established tmem106bb−/− knockout (KO) zebrafish and showed that tmem106bb KO reduced the proliferation of HSPCs during definitive hematopoiesis. The differentiation potential of HSPCs to lymphoid lineage was reduced, whereas the myeloid and erythroid differentiation potentials of HPSCs were increased in tmem106bb−/− zebrafish. Similar results were obtained with morpholino knockdown of tmem106bb. Mechanistically, TMEM106B interacted with LAMP2A, the lysosomal associated membrane protein 2A, impaired LAMP2A‐Cathepsin A interaction, and enhanced LAMP2A stability; tmem106bb KO or TMEM106B knockdown caused LAMP2A degradation and impairment of chaperone‐mediated autophagy (CMA). Knockdown of lamp2a caused similar phenotypes to that in tmem106bb−/− zebrafish, and overexpression of lamp2a rescued the impaired phenotypes of HSPCs in tmem106bb−/− embryos. These results uncover a novel molecular mechanism for the maintenance of HSPC proliferation and differentiation through stabilizing LAMP2A via TMEM106B‐LAMP2A interaction.
Cardiovascular responses to experimental weight gain in humans: a feasibility study
Authors: Cseh Domonkos , Middlemiss Jessica E. , Mäki-Petäjä Kaisa M. , Hubsch Annette , Wilkinson Ian B. , McEniery Carmel M.
Published: August 2024

Objective:

Obesity and hypertension share a well known association. However, the mechanisms underlying their relationship are not well understood. Our goal was to assess the feasibility of a longitudinal, interventional weight gain study with detailed cardiovascular measurements in humans.

Methods:

Sixteen healthy, normotensive, young, male volunteers (28 ± 7 years) were enrolled. Body composition, biochemical and cardiovascular data were obtained at baseline, and after an 8-week period of overfeeding (800–1000 kcal/day). Blood pressure (BP), cardiac output (CO) and peripheral vascular resistance (PVR) were determined, as were the minimum forearm vascular resistance (MFVR), forearm blood flow (FBF) response to mental stress and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters.

Results:

Overfeeding resulted in a median weight gain of 5.6 kg [interquartile range (IQR) 4.6–6.4 kg; P < 0.001]. Seated systolic and diastolic BP were significantly increased by 10 ± 9 and 4 ± 6 mmHg, respectively, after weight gain (P < 0.001 and P = 0.011, respectively). CO also increased and PVR decreased significantly as a result of weight gain (P = 0.032 and P = 0.044, respectively). MFVR was also significantly decreased after weight gain (P = 0.023). The FBF response to mental stress was blunted significantly (P = 0.002), and sympathovagal balance and responsiveness to orthostatic challenge altered moderately after weight gain.

Conclusion:

Our overfeeding regimen resulted in moderate weight gain and significant increases in BP. An increase in CO is likely to be the dominant mechanism underlying the observed BP changes, with decreases in PVR partially compensating for these effects. Experimental weight gain, coupled with detailed cardiovascular phenotyping, is a feasible model to examine potential mechanisms underlying obesity-associated hypertension in young adults.
THE MINI-STEAMROLL
Authors: Pecaku Aurora , El-Sehemy Ahmed , Melo Isabela Martins , Demian Sue Ellen , Andreoli Michael T. , Ramachandran Arun , Muni Rajeev H.
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

To describe a novel positioning maneuver for patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment after pneumatic retinopexy (PnR).

Methods:

Single-center prospective case series of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachments referred to St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada, between 2021 and 2023. All patients underwent PnR. Baseline ultra-widefield fundus imaging and repeat imaging 10 minutes after the gas injection was performed. After PnR, patients were instructed to perform the mini-steamroll maneuver, which consists of a face-down position for 10 minutes followed by positioning to the retinal break. The reduction of subretinal fluid volume after the initial face-down position was evaluated with clinical examination and ultra-widefield imaging.

Results:

Six patients who presented with primary bullous rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and a sizable superior break were enrolled. The mini-steamroll maneuver resulted in a rapid and significant reduction of subretinal fluid in all patients with bullous rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and large superior breaks, allowing subretinal fluid to be expressed into the vitreous cavity with 10 minutes of face-down positioning. One patient required a sequential PnR. Primary retinal reattachment was achieved in all cases. This approach was well-tolerated by patients.

Conclusion:

This case series demonstrates that the mini-steamroll maneuver may be a suitable alternative for patient positioning after PnR in certain cases. The mini-steamroll is a simpler positioning regimen with the potential benefits of direct-to-break and full steamroller maneuver.
Serous Choroidal Detachment Associated with Suspected Contralateral Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis
Authors: Choo Dominic M. , Merchant Arjun G. , Wang Angeline L.
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

To describe a case of choroidal detachment (CD) secondary to cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST).

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

A 73-year-old male with a history of primary open angle glaucoma and pseudophakia presented with retrobulbar pain, blurred vision, and diplopia of the right eye. Exam revealed severe non-hemorrhagic bullous chemosis, tortuous retinal vessels, and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in the right eye. Although computed tomography venography findings initially raised suspicion of a carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF), the diagnostic angiogram showed no such evidence, instead raising concern for cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST). Dilated fundus exam and MRI were notable for multiple serous choroidal detachments in the right eye, which resolved with systemic management of CST and topical steroids.

Conclusion:

The possibility of choroidal detachment during the clinical course of a CST should be recognized. CST may be related to impaired venous drainage that forces transudate into perivascular spaces and results in choroidal effusion.
Updated solution for diagnosis and management of calcinosis cutis: A retrospective review
Authors: Kim Ki Hyun , Kim Kyung Min , Woo Sang Seok , Shin Se Ho , Choi Jai Koo , Kim Seong Hwan , Lee Jun Won , Suh In Suck
Published: August 2024

Calcinosis cutis is classified into 5 main types: dystrophic, metastatic, idiopathic, iatrogenic, and calciphylaxis. However, it is occasionally misdiagnosed as a malignancy and its management remains challenging. Therefore, in this study, we report our diagnostic and treatment experiences with patients with calcinosis cutis and suggest strategies for improving patient care. This retrospective study included 7 patients (4 men, 3 women; 44.4 ± 32.0 years old) who visited our hospital between March 2013 and December 2022 and were diagnosed with calcinosis cutis through histopathological procedures. The patients underwent complete excision of the mass without a safety margin. Frozen biopsy was not performed during surgery. No significant intraoperative or postoperative complications were noted after the application of various imaging techniques for diagnosis and follow-up. All patients showed complete recovery. Follow-up showed no recurrence or complications in the 6 patients who completed 1 year of follow-up. Radiological tests such as plain radiography, ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are important for accurate diagnosis and treatment of calcinosis cutis. This approach can ensure precise assessment of preoperative lesions, leading to safe and less invasive patient treatment, recurrence prevention, and complications of calcinosis cutis.
Causal relationship analysis between 35 blood/urine metabolites and gastroesophageal reflux disease: A Mendelian randomization combined meta-analysis study
Authors: Chen Daolei , Xu Wanxian , Wen Ying , Tan Xiaolan , Liu Jian
Published: August 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition worldwide. Despite numerous studies on GERD, the causal relationships between blood/urine metabolites and GERD remain unclear. This study aims to explore the causal relationships between GERD and 35 blood/urine metabolites. In this study, we conducted Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses for 35 blood/urine metabolites with GERD phenotypes from the FinnGen R10 and UKB databases separately. We then performed a meta-analysis of the inverse variance weighted results from the 2 MR analyses and applied multiple corrections to the significant P values from the meta-analysis. Finally, we conducted reverse causality validation for the corrected positive blood/urine metabolite phenotypes with GERD. After conducting MR analysis combined with meta-analysis and performing multiple corrections, we found significant positive causal associations between only 3 blood/urine metabolites and GERD, with no significant reverse associations. Among them, 2 are risk factors for the occurrence of GERD: alanine aminotransferase levels (odds ratio (OR) = 1.120, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.064–1.180, P = .0005) and urate levels (OR = 1.095, 95% CI = 1.044–1.147, P = .005). Additionally, sex hormone-binding globulin levels are protective against GERD (OR = 0.928, 95% CI = 0.896–0.961, P = .0009). Elevated levels of the metabolites alanine aminotransferase and urate are associated with an increased risk of GERD, identifying them as risk factors for the condition. In contrast, higher levels of SHBG are linked to a decreased risk of GERD, indicating that SHBG is a protective factor against the disease.
Six years follow-up of type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated with intravitreal injection of ranibizumab and bevacizumab: Long-Term Outcomes of intravitreal injection in Type 1 ROP
Authors: Tung Hsiao-Fan , Chen Yi-Ling , Chen Yen-Chih , Chiu Shin-Lin , Chen San-Ni
Published: August 2024

To investigate biometric and refractive results in patients with type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated by intravitreal injection (IVI) of ranibizumab (R) and bevacizumab (B) at the corrected age of 6. This is a single-center retrospective study. Infants diagnosed with type 1 ROP and treated with IVI of either R or B as the primary therapy were included. Data on axial length, anterior chamber depth (ACD), and lens thickness (LT) were obtained using A-scan ultrasound. Cycloplegic refraction, keratometry (K), and best-corrected visual acuity were also documented. Additionally, optical coherence tomography angiography was performed to assess the foveal avascular zone and the density of superficial and deep vessels. We analyzed the structural and functional differences between the 2 groups and compared them with findings from a previous study conducted when these children were between the ages of 1 and 3. The study included 60 eyes from 34 patients, with 34 eyes receiving B and 26 eyes receiving R injections for ROP. In biometric outcomes, there was still a deeper ACD (3.36 ± 0.24 mm in the B group; 3.52 ± 0.21 mm in the R group) and thinner LT (3.63 ± 0.16 mm in the B group; 3.53 ± 0.12 mm in the R group) in the R group, as previously reported at the age of 3. In the refractive aspect, the eyes treated with B had higher myopia at the ages of 1 and 3; however, at the age of 6, refractive errors did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. At the corrected age of 6, the eyes treated with IVI of R were associated with deeper ACD and thinner LT. Interestingly, the emmetropization process resulted in a similar incidence of high myopia at the age of 6, which was different from the outcomes observed at younger ages.
Evaluation of YouTube videos as a source of information in traumatic brain injury rehabilitation: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Engin Onur , Songür Kadir
Published: August 2024

Due to the lengthy and challenging nature of traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation, patients and carers increasingly rely on YouTube for information. However, no previous research has assessed the quality and reliability of these TBI rehabilitation videos on this platform. This study aims to assess the quality and reliability of YouTube videos on TBI rehabilitation. In this cross-sectional study, a YouTube search with the keyword “traumatic brain injury rehabilitation” was performed, and the first 100 videos were listed according to relevancy. After applying exclusion criteria, a total of 72 videos were included in the analysis. DISCERN, Journal of the American Medical Association, and Global Quality Score were used to evaluate the quality and reliability of the videos. Video characteristics, including the number of likes, dislikes, duration, and source of upload, were recorded. The mean DISCERN total score was determined to be 39.56 ± 8.4. Additionally, the mean Journal of the American Medical Association score was 1.93 ± 0.57, the Global Quality Score was 2.6 ± 0.81, and the DISCERN quality score was 2.55 ± 0.79. Analysis showed that videos with a longer duration (P < .001) and those uploaded earlier (P = .002) were more likely to be of higher quality. Videos produced by healthcare professionals had higher DISCERN scores (P = .049) than those uploaded by non-healthcare professionals. Examination of YouTube videos on TBI rehabilitation indicates a moderate overall quality. The study revealed that videos uploaded by healthcare professionals have higher quality. For obtaining reliable information on TBI rehabilitation, it is also advisable to prioritize videos with longer durations and earlier upload dates. Given the significant role of social media platforms in educational outreach for rehabilitation, it is crucial to enhance the quality of these videos through appropriate measures.
The prevalence of neck pain among online learning students: An observational study
Authors: Zheng Dan-Dan , Li Dan , Cheng Jun-Xiang , Jin Rui-Hua
Published: August 2024

Neck pain is among the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders affecting the general population. During the 2019 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, students have increasingly resorted to online learning, requiring prolonged use of electronic devices. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of and factors influencing neck pain during online learning. The study employed a cross-sectional design. Eligible participants were nursing students who had been receiving online instruction for a duration exceeding 3 months. To develop the study instrument, the researchers integrated the study objectives with insights from an extensive literature review. This process culminated in the creation of a comprehensive online questionnaire designed to capture relevant data. The prevalence of neck pain among students was analyzed for both the pre-COVID-19 and during COVID-19 periods. The chi-square test was utilized to compare the occurrence of neck pain between these 2 periods, while binary logistic regression was employed to examine the association between various influencing factors and neck pain. This study revealed that out of the 426 students who participated in the study, 391 were female (91.8%) and 35 were male (8.2%). The prevalence of neck pain during online learning (62.7%) was significantly higher than before online learning (37.3%) (P < .05). A significant correlation was also found between neck pain and learning while lying on a bed or table, duration of use of electronic devices, and exercising habits (P < .05). The prevalence of neck pain among students has significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future research should focus on evaluating the long-term impact of distance learning on undergraduate students. Additionally, it is imperative to develop and implement targeted intervention programs based on the identified influencing factors to mitigate the prevalence of neck pain and alleviate neck discomfort.
Japanese spotted fever in an area endemic to SFTS virus: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Liu Su-nan , Li Wei
Published: August 2024

Rationale:

The geographic spread of Japanese spotted fever (JSF) in China is gradually expanding, particularly in regions where severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is highly prevalent, with both diseases sharing similarities in epidemiology and clinical presentation. The microbiological diagnosis of JSF is challenging, compounded by low awareness among healthcare professionals in newly affected areas. Moreover, primary healthcare facilities without polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing capabilities for SFTS often misdiagnose JSF as SFTS.

Patient concerns:

All 3 patients had a history of working in the fields, with cold like symptoms in the early fever stages, but the fever did not improve after a few days. The accompanying symptoms were also very different. Physical examination revealed enlarged lymph nodes, different forms of rash, with or without eschar. Laboratory tests showed thrombocytopenia, eosinophilia, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, and transaminase, with 1 patient experiencing renal damage. It is worth noting that these 3 patients reside in an area where SFTS is endemic, and there have been no prior reports of JSF. They exhibited clinical symptoms and laboratory test results closely resembling those of SFTS. Therefore, they were initially misdiagnosed with SFTS in their local hospitals.

Diagnoses:

The 3 patients who arrived at our hospital 7 days after symptom onset and were subsequently diagnosed with JSF by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS).

Interventions:

Doxycycline treatment for 1 week.

Outcomes:

The patients’ symptoms quickly improved with no side effects, and the results of laboratory tests went back to normal.

Lessons:

By comparing the clinical characteristics of JSF patients and SFTS patients comprehensively, we found that APTT and procalcitonin levels may be valuable in assisting in the identification of SFTS and JSF. In all areas where tick-borne diseases are endemic, include SFTS-epidemic areas, we recommend using the Weil–Felix test to screen for potential rickettsiosis in patients presenting with fever and thrombocytopenia with or without rash in primary healthcare settings, as well as simultaneous testing for the SFTS virus and spotted fever group rickettsioses sequence. Additionally, mNGS sequencing should be used to confirm the diagnosis and provide information for epidemiological investigations in patients who are suspected of having spotted fever group rickettsiosis.
Study on health education methods based on rural residents’ infectious disease-specific health literacy in Shandong, China
Authors: Chen Shuyu , Wang Bin , Wang Xin , Shi Keqing , Cui Wenhui , Liu Yuwei , Zhang Xueli , Wang Qiang
Published: August 2024

Adequate infectious disease-specific health literacy (IDSHL) is of benefit to residents in dealing with infectious diseases. This study aimed to investigate the methods by which residents acquire knowledge about infectious disease prevention and control (IDPC knowledge) so as to find effective health education methods used to improve residents’ IDSHL level. In 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Shandong Province, China. Participants were recruited from rural areas by multistage sampling. The IDPC knowledge cognitive questionnaire, as a reliable and valid tool, was applied to data collection and to investigate the participants’ IDPC knowledge. Chi-square analysis was utilized to analyze the differences in possession level of IDSHL between different subgroups. The relationship between demographic factors and methods to acquire IDPC knowledge was also examined by chi-square analysis. The possession rate of adequate IDSHL among the total 2283 participants was 31.80%. There was a significant association between IDSHL level and socio-demographic factors, including age (P < .001), sex (P = .02), education (P < .001), occupation (P < .001), annual family income (P < .001), whether to use smartphones (P < .001), whether to browse WeChat on smartphones (P < .001), and whether to browse apps on smartphones except WeChat (P < .001). Univariate analysis showed that whether to adopt specific methods, including television (P = .02), WeChat on smartphones (P < .001), propaganda of infectious disease prevention and control (P < .001), and doctor’s advice (P < .001) to acquire IDPC knowledge had significant associations with IDSHL level. Age (P < .001), education (P < .05), occupation (P < .05), and annual family income (P < .01) were associated with methods to acquire IDPC knowledge. The rural residents’ adequate IDSHL in Shandong Province, China, was not optimistic. The combination of traditional methods and Internet publicity platforms should take greater responsibility for IDSHL health education among rural populations.
Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of gynecological mass lesions: A comprehensive analysis with histopathological correlation
Authors: Salman Syed , Shireen Nabeela , Riyaz Romana , Khan Sajjad Ahmed , Singh Janender Pal , Uttam Anuj
Published: August 2024

Evaluating gynecological mass lesions and reviewing their morphological characteristics based on their imaging appearance on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and correlating the MRI findings with histopathological findings, was the central theme of our study. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 female patients with clinically suspected gynecological mass lesions upon physical examination and/or ultrasonography, referred for MRI at a tertiary care hospital over a 1-year period between June 2022 and July 2023. A broad spectrum of differential diagnoses of gynecological masses was observed. In our study, the ratio of benign versus malignant disease was 1.6:1, with 37 benign and 23 malignant masses identified. The most common benign masses were uterine fibroids (n = 14; 23.3%), followed by endometriosis (n = 8; 13.3%), and ovarian dermoid cysts (n = 4; 6.6%). Among the malignant lesions, cervical cancer was the most common (n = 11; 18.3%), followed by endometrial carcinoma (n = 7; 11.6%), ovarian carcinoma (n = 3; 5%), and vaginal carcinoma (n = 2; 3%). Benign lesions mostly appeared hypo- to isointense on T1-weighted imaging and iso- to hyperintense on T2-weighted imaging, while malignant lesions appeared isointense on T1-weighted and hyperintense on T2-weighted imaging. Hemorrhage and fat were well appreciated on MRI and aided in diagnosis. T2 shading was present in 7 out of 8 endometriotic cysts, demonstrating a specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 83%. For determining parametrial invasion in cervical carcinoma, MRI showed an accuracy of 91%, specificity of 100%, and positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and sensitivity of 100%, 75%, and 88%, respectively. In cases of endometrial carcinoma, MRI demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 87% and 91%, respectively, with a positive predictive value of 87% and a negative predictive value of 91% for identifying myometrial invasion greater than 50%. Compared to other modalities, MRI provided substantial information regarding uterine and adnexal masses and surrounding structures, facilitating accurate staging of lesions.
99mTc-Pertechnetate Scintigraphy Capturing Heterotopic Gastric Mucosa, Intestinal Duplication, and Heterotopic Pancreas in Imaging—A Rare Encounter
Authors: Zhou Yan , Hu Fan , Li Xiang , Li Chongjiao , Xia Xiaotian
Published: August 2024

A 15-year-old adolescent boy was hospitalized because of abdominal pain. Blood tests indicated inflammation markers were elevated. Fecal occult blood test was weakly positive. CT revealed thickening and edema of the small bowel wall, accompanied by gas density shadows and blurring of fat interstitial spaces. Thus, intestinal perforation and gastrointestinal hemorrhage were suspected. In order to investigate the underlying cause, 99mTc-pertechnetate scintigraphy was performed. A tracer accumulated lesion was presented around the navel, suggestive of heterotopic gastric mucosa. Surprisingly, postoperative pathology confirmed coexistence of heterotopic gastric mucosa, intestinal duplication, and heterotopic pancreas, which was a rare condition.
Motor and Non-Motor Factors of Concern About Falling and Fear of Falling in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Takla Taylor N. , Matsuda Patricia N. , Herring Tracy E. , Daugherty Ana M. , Fritz Nora E.
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose:

Despite the frequency of concern about falling (CAF) and fear of falling (FOF) in multiple sclerosis (MS), there remains a lack of clarity between FOF and CAF, though persons with MS have indicated that CAF and FOF are distinct constructs. Our team previously developed and validated a new questionnaire, the Concern and Fear of Falling Evaluation (CAFFE), to assess these concepts. This study aimed to examine CAF and FOF prevalence, and determine relationships among CAF, FOF, and self-reported motor, cognitive, and psychological function in MS relapsing (RRMS) and progressive (PMS) subtypes.

Methods:

In a single online survey, participants with MS completed questions about CAF and FOF, demographic information, the CAFFE, and self-report measures of motor, cognitive, and psychological function.

Results:

A total of 912 individuals completed the survey. Persons with PMS reported greater CAF (80.1%) and FOF (59.1%) than those with RRMS (57.0% and 41.6%, respectively). Persons with PMS endorsing FOF (yes/no) reported greater FOF on the CAFFE, greater avoidance behavior, greater walking impairment, and poorer motor function than people with RRMS (P < 0.001). Self-reported motor function, walking impairment, and avoidance behavior were highly correlated to the CAFFE across the overall sample (P < 0.001).

Discussions and Conclusions:

These findings underscore the disparity between CAF and FOF, emphasize the importance of evaluating CAF and FOF in MS subtypes separately, and highlight both motor and non-motor factors contributing to CAF and FOF. Future work should focus on interventions that incorporate motor, cognitive, and psychological components to address CAF and FOF.

Video Abstract:

for more insights from the authors Supplemental Digital Content available at http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A481.
Intra-articular Therapies for Hand Osteoarthritis: a Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Hung-Lun , Weng Pei-Wei , Pan Chieh-Yu , Ho Ya-Ming , Escorpizo Reuben , Chen Hung-Chou
Published: August 2024

Objective

Intra-articular injection therapy for hand osteoarthritis has inconclusive evidence regarding the effectiveness of different regimens. A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to examine the effectiveness of different injectants.

Design

The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, ClinicalKey, and Scopus databases were searched for studies from inception to July 15, 2023. RCTs that applied intra-articular injection to hand osteoarthritis patients were included, and the outcomes of pain scores and functional scales were assessed.

Results

14 RCTs with 674 patients met the inclusion criteria; 11 RCTs were included in the network meta-analysis. Intra-articular injected platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and dextrose significantly improved pain scores (mean difference [MD] = −4.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −6.51 to −1.56 for PRP; MD = −1.06, 95% CI = −2.1 to −0.02 for dextrose) and hand function (standard mean difference [SMD] = −0.93, 95% CI = −1.81 to −0.05 for PRP; SMD = −0.84, 95% CI = −1.58 to −0.09 for dextrose) in the long-term (≥6 months after treatment completion). The ranking probabilities revealed the highest effectiveness of PRP, followed by dextrose. No major adverse effects were reported.

Conclusion

Intra-articular injected PRP and dextrose can be recommended for treating hand osteoarthritis.
Mpox, sexually transmitted infections and combination prevention: insights from a major cohort in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Silva Mayara S.T. , Torres Thiago S. , Coutinho Carolina , Jalil Emilia M. , Yanavich Carolyn , Martins Pedro S. , Bastos Matheus O. , Mesquita Maira B. , Echeverría-Guevara Amanda , Nazer Sandro , Peixoto Eduardo M. , Terra Marcela , Lovetro Ana , Reges Paula P.S. , Meneguetti Maria Roberta , Moreira Ronaldo I. , Lessa Flavia C.S. , Hoagland Brenda , Nunes Estevão P. , Cardoso Sandra Wagner , Veloso Valdilea G. , Grinsztejn Beatriz ,   the INI-Fiocruz Mpox Study Group
Published: August 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of concurrent bacterial sexually transmitted infections (bSTIs) among individuals with mpox.

Design:

Prospective cohort study of participants aged 18 years or older with confirmed mpox conducted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This cross-sectional analysis includes only participants who underwent bSTI testing at baseline between June 2022 and January 2024.

Methods:

Participants were offered testing for chlamydia/gonorrhea (NAAT, anorectal swabs) and syphilis (active diagnosis if VDRL ≥ 1/8). Baseline prevalence of bSTIs was calculated, and participant characteristics were described based on concomitant bSTI diagnosis (yes/no). Chi-squared/Fisher's tests were used for qualitative variables, and the Wilcoxon rank-sum test for quantitative variables.

Results:

Out of 634 enrolled participants, 538 (84.9%) were tested for STIs and included in this analysis, mostly cisgender men, aged 30–39 years with postsecondary education. Overall prevalence of concomitant bSTI was 37.3%, mainly syphilis, followed by chlamydia and gonorrhea. Half of the participants were living with HIV, and one third was on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Concomitant bSTI diagnosis at the time of mpox assessment was associated with being aged 30–39 years, self-identifying as cisgender men, having HIV-positive status, reporting proctitis symptoms and reporting any STI in the past 12 months.

Conclusions:

Our data reveals a notable prevalence of concomitant bSTIs among participants with confirmed mpox at a prominent infectious diseases’ referral center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. These findings underscore the importance of integrating mpox into the differential diagnosis of anogenital manifestations and the promotion of combination prevention strategies within sexual healthcare services.
Brief Report: Unmet Need for Solid Organ Transplantation Among People With HIV and End-Stage Kidney or Liver Disease: A Brief Report From the HIV Outpatient Study, 2009–2023
Authors: Mayer Cynthia , Agbobli-Nuwoaty Selom Enyo , Li Jun , Carlson Kimberly , Palella Frank J. , Durham Marcus D. , Buchacz Kate ,   for the HIV Outpatient Study (HOPS)
Published: August 2024

Background:

Persons with HIV (PWH) with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) who are eligible for kidney transplantation have post-transplantation outcomes similar to those without HIV infection. However, barriers to referral for care, evaluation, and receipt of transplants remain for PWH. We sought to identify PWH with ESKD or end-stage liver disease (ESLD) who would be candidates for organ transplant and to review their clinical outcomes.

Methods:

We analyzed data from participants in the HIV Outpatient Study (HOPS) between January 1, 2009, and June 30, 2023, with a diagnosis of ESKD or ESLD. We identified a subset of PWH who would otherwise meet the general criteria for kidney or liver transplantation. Targeted clinical outcomes included dialysis, transplantation, and death.

Results:

Among 5215 PWH in the HOPS, 258 with ESKD and 23 with ESLD would otherwise meet the criteria for transplant. However, only 9 kidney and 2 liver transplants were performed.

Conclusions:

Low transplantation rates among eligible PWH suggest that timely referral for care and evaluation for kidney and liver transplantation often does not occur. Expanding access for PWH with ESKD to both deceased and living donor kidney allografts is needed. Kidney and liver transplant centers also need to seek ways to broaden access for eligible PWH with ESKD or ESLD.
Evaluation of Four Interventions Using Behavioral Economics Insights to Increase Demand for Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision in South Africa Through the MoyaApp: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Mistri Preethi , Tomescu Silviu , Bokolo Simamkele , De Nooy Alexandra , Pisa Pedro T. , Grove Skye , Schmucker Laura , Chetty-Makkan Candice , Long Lawrence , Buttenheim Alison , Maughan-Brown Brendan
Published: August 2024

Background:

While voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) reduces the risk of HIV transmission by 60%, circumcision coverage falls short of the UNAIDS 90% VMMC target. We investigated whether behaviorally informed message framing increased demand for VMMC.

Setting:

Adult users of the MoyaApp, a data-free application in South Africa, who viewed a form designed to generate interest in VMMC from August 2022 to November 2022.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental study was conducted to evaluate 4 MoyaApp VMMC intervention forms against the standard-of-care (SOC) form. All forms enabled users to provide contact details for follow-up engagement by a call center. The primary outcome was the proportion of forms submitted. Secondary outcomes included successful contact with the user, VMMC bookings/referrals, and confirmed circumcision. Multivariable ordinary least-squares regression was used for the analysis.

Results:

Of 118,337 MoyaApp VMMC form viewers, 6% submitted a form. foot-in-the-door form viewers were more likely (+1.3 percentage points, P < 0.01) to submit a form compared with the SOC group (6.3%). Active Choice (−1.1 percentage points, P < 0.01) and Reserved for You (−0.05 percentage points, P < 0.05) form viewers were less likely to submit a form compared with SOC form. Users submitting the foot-in-the-door form were less likely to be booked/referred compared with those using the SOC form (−5 percentage points, P < 0.05). There were no differences between the intervention and SOC forms for successful contact and circumcisions.

Conclusions:

Message framing using behavioral insights was able to nudge men to engage with VMMC services. However, more work is needed to understand how to convert initial interest into bookings and circumcisions.
Doctoral training to support sustainable soil geochemistry research in Africa
Authors: Manzeke-Kangara M. G. , Ligowe I. S. , Kaninga B. , Nalivata P. , Kabambe V. , Mbewe E. , Chishala B. H. , Sakala G. M. , Mapfumo P. , Mtambanengwe F. , Tendayi T. , Murwira A. , Chilimba A. D. C. , Phiri F. P. , Ander E. L. , Bailey E. H. , Lark R. M. , Millar K. , Watts M. J. , Young S. D. , Broadley M. R.
Published: August 2024

Africa’s potential for scientific research is not yet being realized, for various reasons including a lack of researchers in many fields and insufficient funding. Strengthened research capacity through doctoral training programmes in higher education institutes (HEIs) in Africa, to include collaboration with national, regional and international research institutions, can facilitate self-reliant and sustainable research to support socio-economic development. In 2012, the Royal Society and the UK’s Department for International Development (now the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) launched the Africa Capacity Building Initiative (ACBI) Doctoral Training Network which aimed to strengthen research capacity and training across sub-Saharan Africa. The ACBI supported 30 core PhD scholarships, all registered/supervised within African HEIs with advisory support from the UK-based institutes. Our ‘Soil geochemistry to inform agriculture and health policies’ consortium project, which was part of the ACBI doctoral training programme network, was implemented in Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe between 2014 and 2020. The aims of our consortium were to explore linkages between soil geochemistry, agriculture and public health for increased crop productivity, nutrition and safety of food systems and support wider training and research activities in soil science. Highlights from our consortium included: (i) the generation of new scientific evidence on linkages between soils, crops and human nutrition; (ii) securing new projects to translate science into policy and practice; and (iii) maintaining sustainable collaborative learning across the consortium. Our consortium delivered high-quality science outputs and secured new research and doctoral training funding from a variety of sources to ensure the continuation of research and training activities. For example, follow-on Global Challenges Research Funded Translation Award provided a strong evidence base on the prevalence of deficiencies in children under 5 years of age and women of reproductive age in Zimbabwe. This new evidence will contribute towards the design and implementation of a nationally representative micronutrient survey as an integral part of the Zimbabwe Demographic and Health Surveys conducted by the Ministry of Health and Child Care. The award also generated new evidence and a road map for creating quality innovative doctorates through a doctoral training landscape activity led by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education. Although our project and the wider ACBI has contributed to increasing the self-reliance and sustainability of research within the region, many challenges remain and ongoing investment is required.
Capacity building in porous materials research for sustainable energy applications
Authors: Langmi Henrietta W. , Musyoka Nicholas M. , Kemmegne-Mbouguen Justin C. , Kowenje Chrispin , Kengara Fredrick , Mokaya Robert
Published: August 2024

The project aimed to develop porous materials for sustainable energy applications, namely, hydrogen storage, and valorization of biomass to renewable fuels. At the core of the project was a training programme for Africa-based researchers in (i) the exploitation of renewable locally available raw materials; (ii) the use of advanced state-of-the-art techniques for the design and synthesis of porous materials (zeolites and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)) for energy storage; and (iii) the valorization of sustainable low-value feedstock to renewable fuels. We found that compaction of the UiO-66 MOF at high pressure improves volumetric hydrogen storage capacity without any loss in gravimetric uptake, and experimentally demonstrated the temperature-dependent dynamic behaviour of UiO-66, which allowed us to propose an activation temperature of ≤ 150°C for UiO-66. Co-pelletization was used to fabricate UiO-66/nanofibre monoliths as hierarchical porous materials with enhanced usable (i.e. deliverable) hydrogen storage capacity. We clarified the use of naturally occurring kaolin as a source of silica and alumina species for zeolite synthesis. The kaolin-derived zeolite X was successfully used as a catalyst for the transesterification of
Jatropha curcas
oil (from non-edible biomass) to biodiesel. We also prepared porous composites (i.e. carbon/UiO-66, organoclay/UiO-66 and zeolite/carbon) that were successfully applied in electrochemical sensing.