bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing the willingness, and reluctuance of lecturers to embrace learning management systems in two selected ghanaian universities
Authors: Asamoah Moses Kumi , Oheneba-Sakyi Yaw
Published: February 2023

The current surge in the usage of Internet, multimedia, and educational technologies as well as the exigencies of the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed ICT-driven education globally. One of the tools deployed for ICT-mediated teaching and learning is the Learning Management System (LMS). Unfortunately, some lecturers’ adoption or use of the LMS for teaching in Ghana appears to be below par, and if the apparent deficiencies are not tackled, e-learning education in the country could lag behind international standards in the foreseeable future. The purpose of the study was to explore factors influencing lecturers’ use or non-use of Learning Management Systems (LMS) in Ghanaian universities, in the hope of strengthening e-learning education in Ghana. Judgmental sampling was utilized to select twenty lecturers from the focal universities. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data, and the data were analysed thematically. The functionality the LMS, its ease of use and the user’s prior knowledge of ICT were some of the factors influencing the adoption and use of the LMS for teaching. Then the nature of the course, technical and infrastructural deficiencies and the difficulty of use of the LMS account for the failure to use the LMS. The study concludes that factors that encourage LMS adoption and use must be given prominence so as to promote effective use of the system. Factors hampering the adoption and use of the system must be tackled or regulated. The study recommends that awareness creation, training and motivation must focus largely on Non-users. Also, challenges faced by Non-users and Users of the system must be addressed by university administrators in order to enhance the use of the system and increase the hybrid/online educational competitiveness of their respective universities.
Social Endowment Insurance and Inequality of the Household Portfolio Choice: The Moderating Effect of Financial Literacy
Authors: Li Rui , Wu Jing , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Siqing , Wu Yuanyang
Published: February 2023

China implements different social endowment insurance policies between urban and rural areas which may cause differences in investment decisions of urban and rural households. Based on the 2013 to 2017 China Household Finance Survey (CHFS) data and the two-way fixed effect panel model, this study aims to investigate the effect of social endowment insurance on the inequality of household portfolio between China’s urban and rural areas and the moderating effect of financial literacy on the relationship between social endowment insurance and household portfolio. The empirical results show that (1) the participation of social endowment insurance is positively related to the possibility of holding risky financial assets and the ratio of risky financial assets; (2) the effect of social endowment insurance is strong and significant in urban areas but weak and not significant in rural areas; (3) the moderating effect of financial literacy on the relationship between social endowment insurance and household portfolio widens the gap of the household portfolio between the urban and rural areas. This paper indicates that the social endowment insurance would affect the household portfolio decisions positively and the financial literacy positively moderates the relationship between social endowment insurance and household portfolio, which just can be applied to urban households. This paper provides evidence of the inequality between the urban and rural households in China and discusses the possible causes of the urban-rural income gap.
Does Erector Spinae Plane Block Decrease Analgesia Requirements After Minimal-Invasive Posterior Transpedicular Stabilization in Patients With Vertebral Body Fracture? A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind Controlled Study
Authors: Holas Martin , Hlásny Jakub , Gajdoš Radomír , Venglarčík Michal , Šimko Peter , Schnake Klaus J. , Merjavy Peter , Pučan Tomáš , Šváč Juraj , Nagypál Robert , Hríň Tomáš , Botka Michal , Nosál´ Slavomír , Wimmerová Soňa
Published: February 2023

Study design

Prospective randomized placebo controlled double blind trial.

Objective

To examine the effect of ESP block after minimally invasive posterior stabilization for vertebral fractures on opioid consumption, pain, blood loss, disability level, and wound healing complications.

Methodology

Patients indicated for minimal invasive posterior stabilisation were included to the study. Our primary outcome was the opioid consumption and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) measured during the first 48 hours. Secondary outcomes used to measure the short-term outcome included Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Patient Reported Outcome Spine Trauma (PROST).

Results

In total, 60 patients were included with a 93.3% follow-up. Average morphine consumption during the PACU (Post Anaesthesia Care Unit) period was 5.357 mg in ESP group and 8.607 mg in placebo group ( P = .004). Average VAS during first 24 hour was 3.944 in ESP group and 5.193 in placebo group ( P = .046). Blood loss was 14.8 g per screw in ESP group and 15.4 g in placebo group ( P = .387). The day2 PROST value was 33.9 in ESP group and 28.8 in placebo group ( P = .008) and after 4 weeks 55.2 in ESP group and 49.9 in placebo group ( P = .036). No significant differences in ODI were detected.

Conclusion

The use of ESP block in minimally invasive spinal surgery for posterior fracture stabilization leads to a significant reduction of opioid consumption during PACU stay by 37.7%. Reduction of opioid consumption was accompanied with lower pain (VAS). We found positive effect of the ESP block on short term outcome scores, but no effect on perioperative blood loss and wound healing.
Performance of village midwives in detecting neonatal emergency through self efficacy and work engagement as mediation: Cross-sectional study in Pamekasan Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Uktutias Sendy Ayu Mitra , Iswati Sri , Hadi Cholichul , Suhariadi Fendy , Utami Sri , Rahman Firman Suryadi
Published: February 2023

Backgrounds:

The government’s strategy in reducing the high infant mortality rate (IMR) in Indonesia is to place midwives in the village and use the Integrated Management of Young Infants (MTBM) guidelines that integrate all steps through early detection and effective treatment. Midwives have not shown maximum performance in neonatal coverage and neonatal complications, each of which has not reached the target. This study aims to analyze the effect of self-efficacy and work engagement on task performance in the Pamekasan Public Health Center Work Area.

Designs and methods:

This research was conducted as an analytic study with a cross-sectional study. A sample of 151 village midwives in each Puskesmas’ working area, was then analyzed and interpreted to test the model with SEMPLS.

Results:

Directly self-efficacy has no effect on performance (t statistic 0.315 < 1.96; p-value 0.753 > 0.05), self-efficacy affects work engagement (t statistic 13.98 > 1.96; p-value 0.000 < 0.05), while work engagement has an effect on performance (t statistic 11.426 > 1.96; p-value 0.000 > 0.05). Indirectly, self-efficacy will affect performance if it is through work engagement (t statistic 7.392 > 1.96; p-value 0.000 > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The findings show that self-efficacy and work engagement can help improve the performance of village midwives in detecting neonatal emergencies.
Self-management of type 2 diabetes among Turkish immigrants in Norway: A focus group study
Authors: Cokluk Betül , Tokovska Miroslava
Published: February 2023

The prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is higher among Turkish immigrants than the general population in Norway. The aim of the study is to describe the challenges and experiences faced by Turkish immigrants in Norway in the self-management of T2DM. The study design is based on descriptive research using a qualitative approach. The sample group contained 13 persons participating in three focus group interviews: nine women and four men. A phenomenological-hermeneutical approach was employed to achieve a deeper understanding of the experience of self-management of T2DM among Turkish immigrants in Norway with regard to HL. The participants described experiences of the T2DM self-management with regard to HL and revealed three major themes: (1) understanding the role and responsibility of health care staff in T2DM treatment, (2) assessing T2DM education course and information and (3) applying knowledge and motivation to adapt to life with T2DM. Findings from this study revealed that self-management of patients with T2DM among Turkish immigrants is related to their cultural, religious and socio-economical background and experiences. By understanding the cultural features, a well-tailored intervention according to the needs of Turkish immigrants regarding self-management can be developed. Health care staff are recommended to consider patients’ HL when interventions are developed.
Improved estimation of P-delta effects on the response of bilinear SDOF systems
Authors: De Francesco Giovanni , Sullivan Timothy J.
Published: February 2023

P-delta ( PΔ) effects can worsen the seismic performance of building and bridge structures and potentially lead to dynamic instability and collapse. An accurate characterization of PΔ effects is therefore imperative, for both design and assessment of structures. Adopting an earthquake database composed of 7032 ground motions, this article uses the results of a large statistical analysis of amplifications of the displacement demand due to PΔ effects for bilinear single-degree-of-freedom systems to investigate and improve practice-oriented methods to account for PΔ effects. A large range of fundamental periods, ductility levels, and effective heights are investigated, and limits for dynamic instability and negligible PΔ effects are examined in terms of both elastic and inelastic stability coefficients. It is seen that systems with the same stability coefficient present increased PΔ induced displacement amplification with reducing fundamental period and increasing ductility level. New expressions for estimation of the median values of the PΔ displacement amplification ratio are proposed that take into account the combined effect of stability coefficient, ductility level, and fundamental period with improved transition close to dynamic instability. Results of the numerical analyses indicate that the new expressions provide improved accuracy over existing approaches without undue complexity.
How Does Hierarchy Steepness Affect Coordination in Project-Based Organizations? A Social Network Analysis
Authors: Xu Jinying , Lu Weisheng
Published: February 2023

This study aims to reveal the impacts of hierarchy steepness on intraorganizational coordination in project-based organizations (PBOs) at both organizational and individual levels. We discovered that hierarchy steepness has a positive correlation with organizational coordination intensity but a negative correlation with an individual’s coordination power. A steeper hierarchy is beneficial for intraorganizational coordination so, averagely, an individual’s coordination power weakens in well-coordinated organizations. The findings refuted previous arguments that took hierarchy as an obstacle to coordination and proved the functionality of a steeper hierarchy. They suggest PBOs steepen the hierarchical structure to improve intraorganizational coordination.
Integrating the serum proteomic and fecal metaproteomic to analyze the impacts of overweight/obesity on IBD: a pilot investigation
Authors: Yan Ping , Sun Yang , Luo Juan , Liu Xiaolin , Wu Jing , Miao Yinglei
Published: February 2023

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses a group of chronic relapsing disorders which include ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). The incidences of IBD and overweight/obesity are increasing in parallel. Here, we investigated alterations in proteomic in serum and metaproteomic in feces of IBD patients with overweight/obesity and aimed to explore the effect of overweight/ obesity on IBD and the underlying mechanism.

Methods

This prospective observational study (n = 64) comprised 26 health control subjects (HC, 13 with overweight/obesity) and 38 IBD patients (19 with overweight/obesity) at a tertiary hospital. Overweight/obesity was evaluated by body mass index (BMI) and defined as a BMI greater than 24 kg/m2. The comprehensive serum proteomic and fecal metaproteomic analyses were conducted by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometry.

Results

UC and CD presented similar serum molecular profiles but distinct gut microbiota. UC and CD serum exhibited higher levels of cytoskeleton organization- associated and inflammatory response-related proteins than the HC serum. Compared the serum proteome of UC and CD without overweight/obesity, inflammatory response-associated proteins were dramatically decreased in UC and CD with overweight/obesity. Fecal metaproteome identified 66 species in the feces. Among them, Parasutterella excrementihominis was increased in CD compared with that in HC. UC group had a significant enrichment of Moniliophthora roreri, but had dramatically decreased abundances of Alistipes indistinctus, Clostridium methylpentosum, Bacteroides vulgatus, and Schizochytrium aggregatum. In addition, overweight/obesity could improve the microbial diversity of UC. Specifically, the UC patients with overweight/obesity had increased abundance of some probiotics in contrast to those without overweight/obesity, including Parabacteroides distasonis, Alistipes indistincus, and Ruminococcus bromii.

Conclusion

This study provided high-quality multi-omics data of IBD serum and fecal samples, which enabled deciphering the molecular bases of clinical phenotypes of IBD, revealing the impacts of microbiota on IBD, and emphasizing the important role of overweight/obesity in IBD.
Isolated aphallia: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Sathaye Siddharth , Sathaye Ulhas
Published: February 2023

Background

Aphallia is a rarest of rare congenital anomaly the incidence being 1 in 10 to 30 million live births. Seen at birth, it leaves the parents and family disturbed. Immediate counselling though done; it may take time for the parents to come to a decision.

Case presentation

A newborn was brought for genital examination and since the penis was not present and the scrotum with testes were normal, aphallia was suspected. At 1 month after all the necessary investigations, isolated aphallia without any other congenital anomalies was confirmed. The options offered were gender reassignment before the age of 18 months or staged phallo and urethroplasty. Parents are so far undecided.

Conclusions

Aphallia results from failure of the genital tubercle to develop, leading to the absence of all the penile components. Diagnosis of aphallia includes the absence of the phallus, male karyotype and normally developed scrotum with normal testicles. Usually, this anomaly is associated with multiple other anomalies involving the urinary, gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal systems. Management of this condition is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach. In addition to managing the associated anomalies, the options to treat aphallia will depend on the type, severity of associated anomalies, family background and socioeconomic status of the family. Psychological counselling along with surgery (in the form of gender reassignment or phalloplasty) are the mainstays of treatment. The literature of this anomaly and the treatment is reviewed.
The burdock database: a multi-omic database for Arctium lappa, a food and medicinal plant
Authors: Song Yueyue , Yang Yanyun , Xu Liang , Bian Che , Xing Yanping , Xue Hefei , Hou Wenjuan , Men Wenxiao , Dou Deqiang , Kang Tingguo
Published: February 2023

Background

Burdock is a biennial herb of Asteraceae found in Northern Europe, Eurasia, Siberia, and China. Its mature dry fruits, called Niu Bang Zi, are recorded in various traditional Chinese medicine books. With the development of sequencing technology, the mitochondrial, chloroplast, and nuclear genomes, transcriptome, and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) fingerprints of burdock have all been reported. To make better use of this data for further research and analysis, a burdock database was constructed.

Results

This burdock multi-omics database contains two burdock genome datasets, two transcriptome datasets, eight burdock chloroplast genomes, one burdock mitochondrial genome, one A. tomentosum chloroplast genome, one A. tomentosum mitochondrial genome, 26 phenotypes of burdock varieties, burdock rhizosphere-associated microorganisms, and chemical constituents of burdock fruit, pericarp, and kernel at different growth stages (using UPLC-Q-TOF–MS). The wild and cultivation distribution of burdock in China was summarized, and the main active components and pharmacological effects of burdock currently reported were concluded. The database contains ten central functional modules: Home, Genome, Transcriptome, Jbrowse, Search, Tools, SRAP fingerprints, Associated microorganisms, Chemical, and Publications. Among these, the “Tools” module can be used to perform sequence homology alignment (Blast), multiple sequence alignment analysis (Muscle), homologous protein prediction (Genewise), primer design (Primer), large-scale genome analysis (Lastz), and GO and KEGG enrichment analyses (GO Enrichment and KEGG Enrichment).

Conclusions

The database URL is http://210.22.121.250:41352/. This burdock database integrates molecular and chemical data to provide a comprehensive information and analysis platform for interested researchers and can be of immense help to the cultivation, breeding, and molecular pharmacognosy research of burdock.
Integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis reveals key regulatory network that response to cold stress in common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Yang Xiaoxu , Liu Chang , Li Mengdi , Li Yanmei , Yan Zhishan , Feng Guojun , Liu Dajun
Published: February 2023

Cold temperatures can be detrimental to crop survival and productivity. Breeding progress can be improved by understanding the molecular basis of low temperature tolerance. We investigated the key routes and critical metabolites related to low temperature resistance in cold-tolerant and -sensitive common bean cultivars 120 and 093, respectively. Many potential genes and metabolites implicated in major metabolic pathways during the chilling stress response were identified through transcriptomics and metabolomics research. Under chilling stress, the expression of many genes involved in lipid, amino acid, and flavonoid metabolism, as well as metabolite accumulation increased in the two bean types. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was lower in 120 than in 093. Regarding amino acid metabolism, 120 had a higher concentration of acidic amino acids than 093, whereas 093 had a higher concentration of basic amino acids. Methionine accumulation was clearly higher in 120 than in 093. In addition, 120 had a higher concentration of many types of flavonoids than 093. Flavonoids, methionine and malondialdehyde could be used as biomarkers of plant chilling injury. Transcriptome analysis of hormone metabolism revealed considerably greater, expression of abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellin (GA), and jasmonic acid (JA) in 093 than in 120 during chilling stress, indicating that hormone regulation modes in 093 and 120 were different. Thus, chilling stress tolerance is different between 093 and 120 possibly due to transcriptional and metabolic regulation.
Chronic atrophic gastritis in different ages in South China: a 10-year retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Zefeng , Zhang Xiaoguang
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To explore the prevalence, characteristics, age distribution and etiology changes of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) in South China.

Methods

This study included all patients who underwent endoscopy examinations from 2011 to 2020 in our hospital. Patients were divided into groups 1 (2011–2015) and 2 (2016–2020). The prevalence, characteristics, age distribution and etiology changes of CAG were compared between groups.

Results

Overall CAG prevalence was 20.92% (24,084/115,110) from 2011 to 2020; prevalence significantly differed between groups (18.78%, 8468/45,087, in group 1 and 22.30%, 15,616/70,023, in group 2). Patients with CAG had significantly younger age (under 45) and more corpus atrophy and more autoimmune atrophic gastritis (AAG) in group 2 than in group 1. AAG prevalence in group 2 was 30.11% (4702/15,616) significantly higher than 13.57% (1149/8468) in group 1. 82 patients with AAG later exhibited gastric cancer without obvious clinical features over the decade.

Conclusions

CAG is increasing and seems starting earlier among people during the study period. We need to focus on diagnosis and treatment of corpus related atrophy and AAG, especially for the young. Laboratory examination, endoscopic biopsy and surveillance are important for CAG.
Risk factors for Pneumocystis pneumonia with acute respiratory failure among kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Lee Hak-Jae , Kwon Hyun-Wook , Baek Jong-Kwan , Park Chan-Hee , Seo Hye-Kyung , Hong Suk-Kyung
Published: February 2023

Purpose

One of the rare life-threatening fungal infections is pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). Immunocompromised patients are the main vulnerable population. We investigate the risk factors associated with the development of severe PCP infection with acute respiratory failure after kidney transplantation.

Materials and methods

This is a retrospective, single-center, case-control study. PCP patients who are kidney transplant recipients and required high-flow oxygen support or mechanical ventilation between March 2009 and February 2017 were included in the study. The comparison was conducted between the non-severe and severe PCP groups. To identify associated risk factors, we performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Among the total 2,330 kidney transplant recipients, 50 patients (2.1%) were diagnosed with PCP. Of these, 27 patients (54.0%) had severe PCP and 7 patients (14.0%) died, all of them were severe PCP patients. In the severe PCP group, the time from transplantation to PCP diagnosis (23.4 ± 24.9 months vs. 13.7 ± 9.9 months, p = 0.090) was insignificantly faster than in the non-severe PCP group. According to multiple logistic regression analysis, the significant risk factors associated with severe PCP were as follows, age (odds ratios (OR) 1.07; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.01–1.13; p = 0.027), time from transplantation to PCP diagnosis (odds ratios (OR) 0.92; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.86–0.99; p = 0.024), lymphopenia (OR 6.48; 95% CI: 1.05–40.09; p = 0.044), and history of acute rejection within 1 year (OR 8.28; 95% CI: 1.29–53.20; p = 0.026).

Conclusion

Patients who have lymphopenia at the time of hospital admission or have been recently treated with acute rejection are more likely to progress to severe PCP, requiring intensive monitoring and aggressive treatment.
Pregnancy associated cancer, timing of birth and clinical decision making—a NSW data linkage study
Authors: Safi Nadom , Li Zhuoyang , Anazodo Antoinette , Remond Marc , Hayen Andrew , Currow David , Roder David , Hamad Nada , Nicholl Michael , Gordon Adrienne , Frawley Jane , Fotheringham Penelope , Sullivan Elizabeth
Published: February 2023

Background

The incidence of pregnancy-associated cancer (PAC), comprising cancer diagnosed during pregnancy or within one year postpartum, is increasing. We investigated the obstetric management and outcomes of women with PAC and their babies.

Methods

A population-based observational study of all women who gave birth between 1994 and 2013 in New South Wales, Australia. Women were stratified into three groups: those diagnosed during pregnancy (gestational cancer group), those diagnosed within one year of giving birth (postpartum cancer group), and a no-PAC group. Generalized estimating equations were used to examine the association between PAC and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Results

One million seven hundred eighty-eight thousand four hundred fifty-onepregnancies were included—601 women (614 babies) were in the gestational cancer group, 1772 women (1816 babies) in the postpartum cancer group, and 1,786,078 women (1,813,292 babies) in the no-PAC group. The overall crude incidence of PAC was 132.7/100,000 women giving birth. The incidence of PAC increased significantly over the twenty-year study period from 93.5/100,000 in 1994 to 162.5/100,000 in 2013 (2.7% increase per year, 95% CI 1.9 – 3.4%, p-value < 0.001). This increase was independent of maternal age. The odds of serious maternal complications (such as acute abdomen, acute renal failure, and hysterectomy) were significantly higher in the gestational cancer group (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 5.07, 95% CI 3.72 – 6.90) and the postpartum cancer group (AOR 1.55, 95% CI 1.16 – 2.09). There was no increased risk of perinatal mortality in babies born to women with PAC. However, babies of women with gestational cancer (AOR 8.96, 95% CI 6.96 – 11.53) or postpartum cancer (AOR 1.36, 95% CI 1.05 – 1.81) were more likely to be planned preterm birth. Furthermore, babies of women with gestational cancer had increased odds of a severe neonatal adverse outcome (AOR 3.13, 95% CI 2.52 – 4.35).

Conclusion

Women with PAC are more likely to have serious maternal complications. While their babies are not at increased risk of perinatal mortality, they are more likely to experience poorer perinatal outcomes associated with preterm birth. The higher rate of birth intervention among women with gestational cancers reflects the complexity of clinical decision-making in this context.
Pan-cancer analysis: predictive role of TAP1 in cancer prognosis and response to immunotherapy
Authors: Tu Zewei , Li Kuangxun , Ji Qiankun , Huang Yuyang , Lv Shigang , Li Jingying , Wu Lei , Huang Kai , Zhu Xingen
Published: February 2023

Background

Transporter associated with antigen processing 1 (TAP1) is a molecule involved in processing and presentation of major histocompatibility complex class I restricted antigens, including tumor-associated antigens. TAP1 participates in tumor immunity, and is aberrantly expressed in multiple cancer types;

Methods

Transcriptome profiles were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Genotype-Tissue Expression databases. Genetic alterations, protein distribution, and interaction information for TAP1 were downloaded from cBioPortal, Human Protein Atlas and Compartmentalized Protein–Protein Interaction, respectively. Single-cell analyses of TAP1 across cancers were conducted via the Tumor Immune Single-cell Hub website. Gene set enrichment analysis was employed to investigate TAP1-associated functional mechanisms and processes. Immune cell infiltration was explored using Tumor Immune Estimation Resource 2.0. Pan-cancer correlations between TAP1 expression and immunotherapy biomarkers were explored using the Spearman’s correlation test. Associations with immunotherapy responses were also investigated using clinicopathological and prognostic information from cohorts of patients with cancer receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Results

TAP1 expression was elevated in most cancer types and exhibited distinct prognostic value. Immune cells expressed more TAP1 than malignant cells within most tumors. TAP1 expression was significantly correlated with immune-related pathways, T-lymphocyte infiltration, and immunotherapeutic biomarkers. Clinical cohort validation revealed a significant correlation with immune therapeutic effects and verified the prognostic role of TAP1 in immunotherapy. Western blot assay indicated that TAP1 is upregulated in glioblastoma compared with adjacent normal brain tissues.

Conclusion

TAP1 is a robust tumor prognostic biomarker and a novel predictor of clinical prognosis and immunotherapeutic responses in various cancer types.
Preparation of chitosan nanoparticle containing recombinant CD44v antigen and evaluation of its immunization capacity against breast cancer in BALB/c mice
Authors: Gheybi Elaheh , Asoodeh Ahmad , Amani Jafar
Published: February 2023

Objective(s)

Breast tumors show heterogeneity containing cancer stem cells as a small subpopulation of a tumor mass. CD44 as a cancer stem cells antigen is abnormally expressed by carcinomas of epithelial origin. Also, overexpression of CD44 variable isoforms (CD44v) is associated with malignancy in breast cancer. In the present research, our objective was to evaluate the immunogenicity of prepared nanoparticles containing a novel recombinant CD44v (rCD44v) protein in the mouse model.

Materials and methods

CD44 gene was expressed in E. coli BL21 DE3 using the pET28a-CD44 vector. The expressed rCD44v protein was purified, encapsulated into the chitosan nanoparticles, and administered to BALB/c mice. ELISA was used to evaluate the immunoglobulin levels of immunized animals. For challenge experiment, 2 × 106 4T1-CD44 tumor cells were injected subcutaneously in mice, and tumor size, necrosis, and metastases were measured. Finally, cell proliferation assay, cytokines assay, and neutralization assay of the mouse anti-rCD44v on the human breast cancer cell line were examined.

Results

The measured size of chitosan-rCD44v nanoparticles was 146.5 nm. Recombinant CD44v encapsulated by chitosan nanoparticles increases immunological responses via the adjuvant nature of chitosan nanoparticles. In the immunized mice, IgG and IgA titers were significantly increased. Tumor growth in injection and nano-injection test groups compared with the mice control groups displayed a significant reduction (P < 0.05). A high amount of splenocytes secreting IFNγ and IL-17 was seen in immunized mice with rCD44v (P < 0.05). Furthermore, a smaller size of lung metastases compared to the control mice groups was detected.

Conclusion

The encapsulated rCD44v within the chitosan nanoparticles induced a significant immune response in mice and can establish significant protection against breast cancer. Therefore, it can be considered a vaccine candidate for breast cancer therapeutic modalities.
Association of chorioretinal thickness with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Basiony Ahmed Ibrahim , Atta Sherry Nissem , Dewidar Noha Mohamed , Zaky Adel Galal
Published: February 2023

Objective

To assess retinal and choroidal thickness changes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).

Background

CKD is a devastating health trouble. The eye and the kidney share similar structural and genetic pathways, so that kidney disease and ocular disease may be closely linked. OCT is a precise, fast method for high-definition scanning of the retina and choroid.

Patients and methods

A cross sectional study was conducted at Menoufia University Hospital ophthalmology department on 144 eyes of 72 CKD patients divided into 3 groups according to the stage of CKD as follows: group 1: CKD stage 1–2, with Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) > 60 ml/min/1.73m2 group 2: CKD stage 3, GFR 30–59 ml/min/1.73m2 and group 3: CKD stage 4–5, eGFR < 29 ml/min/1.73m2. All patients underwent full ophthalmologic examination followed by OCT assessment of retinal, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and choroidal thickness.

Results

Retinal and choroidal thickness were reduced in group 2 (CKD stage 3) and group 3 (CKD stage 4–5) compared with group 1 (CKD stage 1–2). The reduction was more severe in group 3 than group 2. RNFL thickness did not differ between groups. A thinner retina and choroid were associated with an elevated serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, and greater degrees of proteinuria.

Conclusion

Chorioretinal thinning in CKD is associated with a lower eGFR, a higher CRP, and greater proteinuria. Further studies, in a large scale of patients, are needed to detect whether these eye changes reflect the natural history of CKD.
Long-term effects of combined brilliant blue G and xenon light induced retinal toxicity following macular hole repair surgery
Authors: Venkatesh Ramesh , Mangla Rubble , Sharief Shama , Chhablani Jay
Published: February 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to look at the long-term effects of retinal phototoxicity after macular hole repair surgery using xenon endolight illumination and Brilliant blue G (BBG) dye.

Case presentation

An elderly man in his late seventies underwent para plana vitrectomy with BBG dye to repair an idiopathic full-thickness macular hole (MH) in his right eye. Prior to macular hole surgery, his visual acuity in the right eye was 6/60, N24 at the time of presentation. The MH closed with type 1 closure immediately after surgery, but there was extensive damage to the outer retinal layers and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) at the macula, resulting in a reduction in visual acuity to 2/60. We presumed that the combination of BBG and xenon light, is the probable reason of retinotoxicity in the current patient. There was a progressive increase in the area of retinal and RPE layer damage and choroidal thinning over a 4-year period.

Conclusion

Due to combined BBG-induced dye and endoilluminator toxicity, a rare case of continuously progressing RPE layer damage with choroidal thinning over a long follow-up interval was described. Such long-term effects of BBG and endolight induced retinotoxicity have not been reported in the literature, to the best of our knowledge.
Non-optimal apparent temperature and cardiovascular mortality: the association in Puducherry, India between 2011 and 2020
Authors: Shrikhande Shreya S. , Pedder Hugo , Röösli Martin , Dalvie Mohamed Aqiel , Lakshmanasamy Ravivarman , Gasparrini Antonio , Utzinger Jürg , Cissé Guéladio
Published: February 2023

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of death worldwide, are sensitive to temperature. In light of the reported climate change trends, it is important to understand the burden of CVDs attributable to temperature, both hot and cold. The association between CVDs and temperature is region-specific, with relatively few studies focusing on low-and middle-income countries. This study investigates this association in Puducherry, a district in southern India lying on the Bay of Bengal, for the first time.

Methods

Using in-hospital CVD mortality data and climate data from the Indian Meteorological Department, we analyzed the association between apparent temperature (Tapp) and in-hospital CVD mortalities in Puducherry between 2011 and 2020. We used a case-crossover model with a binomial likelihood distribution combined with a distributed lag non-linear model to capture the delayed and non-linear trends over a 21-day lag period to identify the optimal temperature range for Puducherry. The results are expressed as the fraction of CVD mortalities attributable to heat and cold, defined relative to the optimal temperature. We also performed stratified analyses to explore the associations between Tapp and age-and-sex, grouped and considered together, and different types of CVDs. Sensitivity analyses were performed, including using a quasi-Poisson time-series approach.

Results

We found that the optimal temperature range for Puducherry is between 30°C and 36°C with respect to CVDs. Both cold and hot non-optimal Tapp were associated with an increased risk of overall in-hospital CVD mortalities, resulting in a U-shaped association curve. Cumulatively, up to 17% of the CVD deaths could be attributable to non-optimal temperatures, with a slightly higher burden attributable to heat (9.1%) than cold (8.3%). We also found that males were more vulnerable to colder temperature; females above 60 years were more vulnerable to heat while females below 60 years were affected by both heat and cold. Mortality with cerebrovascular accidents was associated more with heat compared to cold, while ischemic heart diseases did not seem to be affected by temperature.

Conclusion

Both heat and cold contribute to the burden of CVDs attributable to non-optimal temperatures in the tropical Puducherry. Our study also identified the age-and-sex and CVD type differences in temperature attributable CVD mortalities. Further studies from India could identify regional associations, inform our understanding of the health implications of climate change in India and enhance the development of regional and contextual climate-health action-plans.
Reactions of industry and associated organisations to the announcement of the UK Soft Drinks Industry Levy: longitudinal thematic analysis of UK media articles, 2016-18
Authors: Penney Tarra L. , Jones Catrin P. , Pell David , Cummins Steven , Adams Jean , Forde Hannah , Mytton Oliver , Rutter Harry , Smith Richard , White Martin
Published: February 2023

Background

The UK Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL) was announced in March 2016, became law in April 2017, and was implemented in April 2018. Empirical analyses of commercial responses have not been undertaken to establish the scale, direction or nuance of industry media messaging around fiscal policies. We aimed to develop a detailed understanding of industry reactions to the SDIL in publicly available media, including whether and how these changed from announcement to implementation.

Methods

We searched Factiva to identify articles related to sugar, soft-drinks, and the SDIL, between 16th March 2016–5th April 2018. Articles included were UK publications written in English and reporting a quotation from an industry actor in response to the SDIL. We used a longitudinal thematic analysis of public statements by the soft-drinks industry that covered their reactions in relation to key policy milestones.

Results

Two hundred and ninety-eight articles were included. After the announcement in March 2016, there was strong opposition to the SDIL. After the public consultation, evolving opposition narratives were seen. After the SDIL became law, reactions reflected a shift to adapting to the SDIL. Following the publication of the final regulations, statements sought to emphasise industry opportunities and ensure the perceived profitability of the soft drinks sector. The most significant change in message (from opposition to adapting to the SDIL) occurred when the SDIL was implemented (6th April 2018).

Conclusion

Reactions to the SDIL changed over time. Industry modified its media responses from a position of strong opposition to one that appeared to focus on adaptation and maximising perceived profitability after the SDIL became law. This shift suggests that the forces that shape industry media responses to fiscal policies do not remain constant but evolve in response to policy characteristics and the stage of the policy process to maximise beneficial framing.
High rates of observed face mask use at Colorado universities align with students’ opinions about masking and support the safety and viability of in-person higher education during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Clark Kevin C. , Bailey Maximilian J. , Wasshuber Stefan , Huntley Raissa , Bjorkman Kristen K. , Bauer Leisha Conners , Paige Camille L. , Sawyer Sara L. , Czarnik Michaila , Riggs Margaret A. , Gutilla Margaret J. , Alderete Tanya L.
Published: February 2023

Background

Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, colleges and universities have focused on creating policies, such as mask mandates, to minimize COVID-19 transmission both on their campuses and in the surrounding community. Adherence to and opinions about these policies remain largely unknown.

Methods

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed a cross-sectional study, the Mask Adherence and Surveillance at Colleges and Universities Project (MASCUP!), to objectively and inconspicuously measure rates of mask use at institutes of higher education via direct observation. From February 15 through April 11, 2021 the University of Colorado Boulder (CU, n = 2,808 observations) and Colorado State University Fort Collins (CSU, n = 3,225 observations) participated in MASCUP! along with 52 other institutes of higher education (n = 100,353 observations) spanning 21 states and the District of Columbia. Mask use was mandatory at both Colorado universities and student surveys were administered to assess student beliefs and attitudes.

Results

We found that 91.7%, 93.4%, and 90.8% of persons observed at indoor locations on campus wore a mask correctly at University of Colorado, Colorado State University, and across the 52 other schools, respectively. Student responses to questions about masking were in line with these observed rates of mask use where 92.9% of respondents at CU and 89.8% at CSU believe that wearing masks can protect the health of others. Both Colorado universities saw their largest surges in COVID-19 cases in the fall of 2020, with markedly lower case counts during the mask observation window in the spring of 2021.

Conclusion

High levels of mask use at Colorado’s two largest campuses aligned with rates observed at other institutes across the country. These high rates of use, coupled with positive student attitudes about mask use, demonstrate that masks were widely accepted and may have contributed to reduced COVID-19 case counts. This study supports an emerging body of literature substantiating masks as an effective, low-cost measure to reduce disease transmission and establishes masking (with proper education and promotion) as a viable tactic to reduce respiratory disease transmission on college campuses.
Diverse associations between adiposity and blood pressure among 80,000 multi-ethnic Chinese adults
Authors: Chen Jiayi , Zuo Haojiang , Wu Xinyu , Zhang Yuan , Tan Qiang , Yu Zhimiao , Laba Ciren , Pan Yongyue , Yin Jianzhong , Hong Feng , Zeng Peibin , Zhao Xing
Published: February 2023

Background

Adiposity is widely recognized as one of the risk factors for high blood pressure (BP) and increasing adiposity is associated with elevated BP. However, which measures of adiposity could be most strongly associated with BP in multi-ethnic population remains uncertain, giving rise to implications that population-based adiposity measures could be necessary.

Methods

80,000 multi-ethnic adults recruited from 5 provinces across Southwest China during 2018 ~ 2019 were studied. Multiple linear regression was applied to investigate the associations of systolic blood pressure (SBP) with: (1) two measures of general adiposity, body mass index (BMI) and height-adjusted weight; and (2) three measures of central adiposity, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC) and waist hip ratio (WHR).

Results

Two distinct population-specific patterns were identified, as “BMI to SBP” and “WC to SBP”. 90% of the participants fall into “BMI to SBP” pattern, in which the associations of SBP with BMI were independent of WC, and SBP-WC associations were considerably decreased by adjustment for BMI. And in this pattern, 10 kg/m2 greater BMI was associated with 11.9 mm Hg higher SBP on average. As for the rest population (Han males in Yunnan and Tibetans in Lhasa), they are suited for “WC to SBP” pattern, 10 cm wider WC was associated with 3.4 mm Hg higher SBP.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that when selecting proper predictors for BP, population-specific adiposity measures are needed, considering ethnicity, sex and residing regions. A better understanding of adiposity and BP may better contribute to the potential clinical practices and developing precision application strategies.
Modern contraception utilization and associated factors among all women aged 15–49 in Ethiopia: evidence from the 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Zeleke Girum Taye , Zemedu Theodros Getachew
Published: February 2023

Background

The use of contraceptive is key in reducing unsafe abortion from unintended pregnancies, infant mortality, adolescent pregnancies, slowing population growth and helps to prevent HIV/AIDS. However, less than one-third of women within reproductive age in Ethiopia uses modern contraceptive methods. Hence, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of modern contraceptive utilization and to identify potential factors on use of modern contraceptive method.

Methods

Data from 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey were used in this analysis. A total of 8885 women within the ages of 15–49 years across 305 enumeration areas in nine regions and two city administrations were included in the analysis.

Multivariable logistic regression model were applied to examine the association between women’s background characteristics and modern contraceptives utilization.

Results

Only 28.1% of all women used modern contraceptives. About 40% of the modern contraceptive users were between age of 25–29 and 30–34 years. There was significant association between women’s age, level of education, region, religion, parity, wealth quintile and marital status on use of modern contraceptives. Women who were married and living with partners were about 20 (AOR = 19.91, 95% CI: 14.27, 27.78) and 24 (AOR = 23.51, 95% CI: 14.66, 37.72) times more likely to use modern contraceptives compared to sexually active unmarried women.

Conclusion

The study showed that the use of modern contraceptive method is not adequate and it is also influenced by socio-demographic and economic characteristics of women in Ethiopia. Therefore, increasing the awareness of women to use modern contraceptive methods is vital. We suggest that there is a need to improve the service in women age above 39 years, women in Afar, Somali, Harari and Diredawa regions; and protestant, Muslim and traditional religion followers.
Evaluating the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Healthy Lifestyle Instrument for Breast Cancer Survivors (HLI-BCS)
Authors: Ramezanzade Tabriz Elahe , Aledavood Seyed Amir , Ramezani Monir , Kavoosi Fateme
Published: February 2023

Background

Precise examination of breast cancer survivors’ lifestyles can lead to improved planning and implementation of care and counseling interventions to increase their survival rate and improve their quality of life. Therefore, a valid and reliable instrument needs to be developed. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Healthy Lifestyle Instrument for Breast Cancer Survivors (HLI-BCS).

Methods

This methodological study was conducted on 420 Iranian breast cancer survivors between May and November 2022. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. The face, content, construct validity, convergent, and reliability of the Persian version of the HLI-BCS were assessed.

Results

After assessing face, content, and construct validity, the Persian version of the HLI-BCS with five factors and 20 items was provided. The total Cronbach’s alpha and intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) were calculated as 0.86 and 0.79, respectively, which were at acceptable levels. A healthy lifestyle in breast cancer survivors was observed to have strong and significant relationships with quality of life in general (p < 0.001, r = 0.832), physical health (r = 0.786), and mental health (r = 0.809).

Conclusion

The Persian version of the HLI-BCS has favorable properties, is consistent with the conditions of breast cancer survivors, and is valid and reliable. This version of the scale can provide adequate and precise information on the lifestyles of these patients.