bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The determinants of adolescent smokers in Indonesia
Authors: Lucia Sindu Setia , Yetiani Novin , Suwarni Linda , Rusmitasari Heni , Maretalinia Maretalinia , Suyitno Suyitno
Published: July 2022

In Indonesia, the prevalence of adolescence smokers is high. The situation might be worse during the epidemiological transition. This study aimed to estimate the sociodemographic factors related to tobacco use (light, moderate, and heavy) among adolescent in school age in Indonesia. This cross-sectional study used the raw data from the secondary data of Indonesia Global Youth of Tobacco Survey (GYTS), 2019. This study only included the 9,992 adolescent smokers in school age as the sample. School was selected based on the proportional probability based on the number of students. The class was selected by random sampling method and the students in that class were eligible to join the survey. This current study only selected those who smoked at the time of survey. The univariate, bivariate (Chi-square and t-test), and multivariate (ordinal logistic regression) has been tested in this study. The prevalence of tobacco uses among adolescent in Indonesia in 2019 was 19.2%. The determinants of tobacco use mostly related to pocket money, having products with cigarettes logo, and can purchase near the school. The role of sociodemographic, factors related to current tobacco use is very important to arrange the policy. The policy is very important to prevent and control tobacco use, especially among adolescence.
The relationship of family functionality and parent behavior on adolescent delinquent behavior
Authors: Yusoff Syahira , Shah Kamarul Md , Mohd Sakari Nor Shakirah , Suhail Ahmad Nur Sufia
Published: July 2022

Adolescent social problems involving juvenile delinquents concentrate around factor such as family functionality and parental behavior. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of family functionality and parent behavior on adolescent delinquent behavior. This study included 196 female delinquent adolescent inmates from four Malaysian correctional and rehabilitation centers in Malaysia. Data was collected using a questionnaire set that included background characteristics, The Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES) IV, The parental behavior inventory (PBI), and Inventory Delinquency Scale. The descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation were used to analyses the data. The result showed that family functionality has a significant association with delinquent behavior (r=-.255, p<001). Parental behavior also has a significant association with juvenile delinquent behavior (r=.411, p<.001).
Perceived susceptibility, barriers, and cues to action as determinant factors of reproductive health behavior
Authors: Setyaningsih Wahyu , Yudianti Ika , Mansur Herawati
Published: July 2022

Adolescents are confronted with many reproductive health problems because of unstable conduct. This research aimed to investigate reproductive health behavior in female teens through the usage of a health belief model. This cross-sectional study was conducted in September, 2020 at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 1 Malang, Indonesia. Data have been collected by questionnaires from 152 female high school students who were selected by simple random sampling. Data were analyzed using logistic regression. The study found that there are relationships among perceived susceptibility, perceived barriers, and cues to action with p<0.001, perceived severity (p 0.012), perceived benefits (p 0.001), and self-efficacy (p 0.008). The goodness of fit test showed that the data fit with the logistic regression model (p 0.917) and 79.7% of reproductive health behavior is associated with these six variables. Perceived susceptibility, barriers, and cues to action as a determinant aspect of reproductive health behavior. Adolescents should have the understanding and motivation to act in a healthy way associated with their reproductive health.
Combination of black cumin seeds with Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract as an antioxidant and immune-modulator agent in the COVID-19 pandemic era
Authors: Akrom Akrom , Hidayati Titiek , Umam Nurcholid , Saputri Ginanjar Zuhruf
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic demands changes in using of medicinal plants. Empirically, the medicinal plants of Curcuma xanthorrhiza (CX) and black cumin (BC) have been used massively in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. Curcuma xanthorrhiza and black cumin (CXBC) preparations have been developed with the main ingredients of BC oil and CX extract. The purpose of the study was to determine the antioxidant and immune-modulatory activities of CXBC preparations active substances (polyphenols, flavonoids, thymoquinone). We conducted experimental laboratory research. The immunomodulatory activity test was carried out on human large lung cancer cell line (HTB-183 cells) by observing the expression of tumor necrosis factor alfa (TNF-α) and interleukine 10 (IL-10). The results showed that the CXBC preparation contained 4% thymoquinone, 25.87 mg/ml polyphenols, and 41.86 mg/dl flavonoids. CXBC preparations contain vitamins (A, C, and E) and minerals (potassium, calcium). The antioxidant activity of the CXBC preparation was included in the strong category with IC50=54.87 ppm. CXBC preparations increased TNF-a expression and decreased IL-10 expression in HTB-183 cells. Based on the study results, it can be concluded that the CXBC preparation contains 4% thymoquinone, 25.87 mg/ml polyphenol, 41.86 mg/dl flavonoid, and a high level of vitamin and minerals. CXBC preparations have potent antioxidant activity, increase TNF-α and decrease IL-10 expression.
Green tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic: health protocol moderation analysis
Authors: Permana Saputra Asep Rokhyadi , Iswara Dani , Azman Mohamed Nor Azhari , Hajimia Hafizah
Published: July 2022

The growth rate of green tourism/ecotourism in the province of Yogyakarta, Indonesia decreased drastically because of the government's program in the community activity restriction program to reduce the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to analyze public perceptions of ecotourism conditions during the pandemic by implementing health protocols and maintaining environmental sustainability. The research employed descriptive and quantitative analysis. The research subject was 222 beach ecotourism tourists in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia during the pandemic period for a period of seven months (February-August 2021). They were recruited through incidental random sampling method. The analytical tools in testing the research instrument were convergent validity test with mean loading factors and square roots average variable extract, discriminant validity test with average variable extract (AVE), and reliability test with Cronbah's alpha and composite reliability (CR), structural equation modeling analysis (SEM) with Warp partial least square (PLS) 7.0. The results showed that ecotourism concern, ecotourism practices, were not significant on tourist satisfaction. Green promotion had an effect on ecotourism tourist satisfaction, and health protocols strengthened tourist satisfaction on tourists' interest in returning to ecotourism.
A systematic review on relationship between stress and problematic smartphone use
Authors: Yew Wong Boon , Yeo Kee Jiar , Handayani Lina
Published: July 2022

This study systematically reviewed the existing research on relationship between stress and problematic smartphone use. It aimed to provide an aggregative view of the existing research findings on relationship between stress and problematic smartphone use and how these researches are conducted (i.e., research designs, sampling techniques, sample characteristics, measurement scales, data analysis techniques). A thorough literature research in five bibliographic databases (Taylor & Francis, Wiley, SAGE, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect), Google Scholars, and previous review papers has resulted in 35 studies being included in this review. This review has found that the existing empirical evidence generally demonstrated that i) stress can cause problematic smartphone use; ii) the effect of stress on problematic smartphone use is not straightforward but transmitted by other variables (i.e., mediator), and iii) the effect of stress on problematic smartphone use varies as a function of context or individual differences (i.e., moderator). Finally, following a thorough review of their methodological information, this review has also identified the strengths and limitations of the existing studies on relationship between stress and problematic smartphone use, as well as potential directions of research.
Pandemic Design: Art, Space, and Embodiment
Authors: Gueorguiev Manol , Anagnost Adrian
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered experiences of space and engendered new spatial design tactics. This article discusses DIY pandemic design tactics used by U.S. microbusinesses to reshape embodied experiences of interior retail spaces, in relation to contemporary artworks. Over the course of the pandemic, large corporations developed standardized, mass-produced designs for pandemic wayfinding and interior demarcation. In contrast, many microbusinesses used DIY pandemic design tactics having formal qualities and phenomenological implications that resemble precedents in contemporary art. Although pandemic safety protocols could be seen as a form of social control, this article depicts their visualization in graphics and barriers as acts for reshaping collective space and as endangered forms of local, non-homogenized design.
Discovery of Hishimonus diffractus Dai, Fletcher & Zhang, 2013 (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cicadellidae) in Europe, with remarks on previously recorded species of the genus
Authors: BELLA SALVATORE , AGUÍN-POMBO DORA , AGUIAR ANTÓNIO M.F. , KUNZ GERNOT , MIRALLES-NÚÑEZ ADRIÀ , FOSTER STUART , SÁNCHEZ-GARCÍA IÑIGO , WILSON MICHAEL R. , D’URSO VERA
Published: July 2022

During recent surveys on leafhoppers in urban and agroecosystem areas in Europe the Oriental Hishimonus diffractus Dai, Fletcher & Zhang, 2013 (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae) has been found. This species, described from China and Thailand, is recorded here for the first time from Europe in the following countries: France, Portugal (Madeira), Spain, Gibraltar, United Kingdom, and Italy (Sicily). H. diffractus has been found associated with Jasminum and Olea (Oleaceae), Citrus (Rutaceae), Pittosporum (Pittosporaceae), Rubus (Rosaceae), Nerium (Apocynaceae) and Vitis (Vitaceae). Presence of the adults, morphological features, and some biological notes are provided to H. diffractus. Furthermore, Hishimonus hamatus Kuoh, 1976 is here reported for the first time in Spain and France. All Hishimonus species introduced in Europe are considered, and their economic importance discussed. Details on the first record and country in Europe, origin area, current distribution and host plants are given for each species.
Examining the Basic Assumption of Psychoanalytic Theory Regarding Normal and Abnormal Grief: Roles of Unfinished Businesses and Bereavement Related Guilt
Authors: Keser Emrah , Ar-Karci Yagmur , Danışman Ilgın Gökler
Published: July 2022

To date, several theoretical models have been proposed to explain how the expected and natural grief processes turns into psychiatric disorders. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of empirical research examining the basic assumption of psychoanalytic theory regarding pre-death conflict and bereavement related guilt. Accordingly, the current study aimed to investigate the mediator role of bereavement related guilt in the relationship between the pre-death conflict and maladaptive grief process. The sample consisted of 447 bereaved adults who lost a loved one due to death in the last 5 years. The Unfinished Business in Bereavement (UBBS), Bereavement Guilt Scale (BGS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Prolonged Grief Disorder Scale (PG-13) scales were administered. The results indicated that the UBBS scores were positively correlated with both BDI and PG-13 scores, and BGS scores mediated these relationships. Obtained findings were discussed in relation to psychoanalytic theory and existing studies in the grief literature.
Physiologic and pathophysiologic roles of AKAP12
Authors: Li Hui
Published: July 2022

A kinase anchoring protein (AKAP) 12 is a scaffolding protein that improves the specificity and efficiency of spatiotemporal signal through assembling intracellular signal proteins into a specific complex. AKAP12 is a negative mitogenic regulator that plays an important role in controlling cytoskeletal architecture, maintaining endothelial integrity, regulating glial function and forming blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood retinal barrier (BRB). Moreover, elevated or reduced AKAP12 contributes to a variety of diseases. Complex connections between AKAP12 and various diseases including chronic liver diseases (CLDs), inflammatory diseases and a series of cancers will be tried to delineate in this paper. We first describe the expression, distribution and physiological function of AKAP12. Then we summarize the current knowledge of different connections between AKAP12 expression and various diseases. Some research groups have found paradoxical roles of AKAP12 in different diseases and further confirmation is needed. This paper aims to assess the role of AKAP12 in physiology and diseases to help lay the foundation for the design of small molecules for specific AKAP12 to correct the pathological signal defects.
Ridership and Operations Visualization Engine: An Integrated Transit Performance and Passenger Journey Visualization Engine
Authors: Caros Nicholas S. , Guo Xiaotong , Stewart Anson , Attanucci John , Smith Nicholas , Nioras Dimitris , Gartsman Anna , Zimmer Alissa
Published: July 2022

Transit agencies collect a vast amount of data on vehicle positions, passenger loading and, increasingly, origin–destination flows. Collecting and synthesizing these data to support operations and planning are significant challenges and can be constrained by information silos within transit agencies. In this paper, an open-source bus performance and journey visualization dashboard, Ridership and Operations Visualization Engine, is presented, which integrates multiple disparate data sources into a flexible and iterative analysis tool. It differs from existing commercial products by including origin–destination flows along with standard performance metrics, and is designed to be adaptable and relevant to any transit agency. Two case studies are presented to demonstrate the functionality of the dashboard: planning transit priority infrastructure and evaluating network design changes. The dashboard was developed in partnership with Chicago Transit Authority and Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, and practical details from the installation and maintenance procedures are included for prospective users.
Temperature analysis in Computer Numerical Control milling of medical-grade poly(methyl methacrylate)
Authors: Wambua Job M , Mwema Fredrick M , Jen Tien-Chien , Akinlabi Esther T , Akinlabi Stephen A
Published: July 2022

Conventional machining of materials is often characterized by the generation of heat and elevation of cutting point temperatures. This induces thermal transformations and development of residual stresses. Therefore, there is a necessity to evaluate the interaction of machining temperatures with heat generation to identify the optimal values for the least heat generation. This is the main aim of this study, where an analysis of temperature is conducted during the computer numerical control (CNC) milling of medical-grade poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The samples were obtained from used optical lenses with an average Shore D hardness and transparency of 79.1 and 89.2%, respectively. The experiments were designed using the Taguchi methodology. The milling parameters used were the spindle speed, depth of cut, and feed rate. A special adjustable jig and several fixtures were developed for workpiece holding. During the milling process, in-situ temperature monitoring was undertaken using a FLIR-E63900 Infrared Thermometer. From the analysis, the parameter combination for the least values of maximum and average temperatures was a spindle speed of 1250 rev/min, a depth of cut of 0.3 mm, and a feed rate of 350 mm/min. A one-way analysis of variance depicted that the spindle speed was the most significant parameter toward the maximum and average milling temperatures owing to the generated friction and cutting forces. The depth of cut and feed rate were insignificant to the temperature of the process. It is also reported that the spindle speed exhibited a direct relationship produced by the machining forces whereas the feed rate exhibited an inverse relationship with the machining temperature, which was attributed to the reduced contact time and high chip removal, hence high heat dissipation. Lastly, a regression analysis was conducted, which showed that the maximum ( R2  =  0.7566) and average temperatures ( R2  =  0.7383) during the CNC milling of medical-grade PMMA could be predicted using linear regression models.
Cutaneous adverse drug reactions among people living with human immunodeficiency virus in a tertiary care hospital in Johor, Malaysia
Authors: Chua Keow Yin , Tey Kwee Eng
Published: July 2022

Background

Cutaneous adverse drug reactions (cADRs) among people living with HIV (PLWH) are common. Data on drug eruptions among PLWH in Malaysia are limited. Thus, our study aimed to determine the clinical patterns of cADRs among PLWH and the risk factors associated with severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among PLWH who developed cADRs presenting to our dermatology clinic from June 2020 to December 2020. The Naranjo scale was used for drug causality assessment.

Results

A total of 78 PLWH were recruited with a male-to-female ratio of 12:1. The maculopapular eruption was the commonest type of cADRs (75.6%), followed by drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) (15.4%). SCAR is defined as a potentially life-threatening, immunologically mediated, drug-induced disease, accounting for 17.9% of the cases. Most of the patients were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) (85.9%), with efavirenz + tenofovir/emtricitabine being the most common combination (80.6%). Efavirenz (51.3%) was the main culprit drug implicated, followed by trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (23.1%) and nevirapine (11.5%). CD4 T-cell count <100 cells/μL ( p = 0.006) was the independent risk factor for SCAR. Most cases had probable causal relationships with the culprit drugs (84.6%) and were not preventable (93.6%).

Conclusions

The commonest cADR seen in PLWH was maculopapular eruption, while efavirenz, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and nevirapine were the three main implicated drugs. Most of the cases had probable drug causality and were not preventable. PLWH with CD4 count <100 cells/μL were particularly at risk of developing SCAR. Overall, this study showed that immune suppression and polypharmacy as a consequence of opportunistic infection prophylaxis are important factors contributing to the increased risk of ADRs among PLWH.
A Meta-Regression of Racial Disparities in Wellbeing Outcomes During and After Foster Care
Authors: Kennedy Reeve S. , Potter Marina H. , Font Sarah A.
Published: July 2022

Children in foster care face heightened risk of adverse psychosocial and economic outcomes compared with children in the general population. Yet, the effects of foster care as an intervention are heterogeneous. Heterogeneity outcomes by race and ethnicity are of particular interest, given that Black and Indigenous youth experience foster care at higher rates than other racial/ethnic groups and experience group differences in setting, duration, and exits to permanency. This meta-regression explores racial disparities in education, employment, mental health, and behavioral outcomes during and following foster care. A systematic search of PsycINFO, ERIC, and Academic Search Complete using a series of search terms for studies published between January 2000 and June 2021 found 70 articles and 392 effect sizes that provided outcomes of US-based foster care by race/ethnicity. Findings reveal that Black foster care impacted persons (FCIPs) have 20% lower odds (95% CI: .68–.93) of achieving employment or substantial financial earnings and have 18% lower odds (95% CI: .68–1.00) of mental health concerns compared to White FCIPs. Hispanic FCIPs have 10% lower odds (95% CI: .84–.97) of achieving stable housing compared to non-Hispanic FCIPs. Moderator analyses revealed certain study features (i.e. publication type, timing of the study, location of the study, and placement status of the participants) have a significant impact on the gap between Black and non-Black and Hispanic and non-Hispanic FCIPs. The findings provide important implications for racial disparities in foster care outcomes, as well as highlight important gaps and missing information from published studies.
Acute leg pain and weakness in pregnancy: A new diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Heron Vanessa C , Thomas Ashmitha , Liu Bonnia , Crosthwaite Amy A , Skrzypek Hannah , McLean Catriona A , Paizis Kathy
Published: July 2022

We present a unique case of a 44-year-old woman who presented at 29 weeks’ gestation with proximal limb pain and elevated creatine kinase. This occurred in the background of premature cataracts, atrial fibrillation and abnormal liver function. Clinical, pathological and neurodiagnostic findings supported a diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy, confirmed by genetic testing which revealed dystrophia myotonica protein kinase gene expansion. Muscle biopsy found both recent necrotising and chronic myopathic processes. Following delivery, the mother's myalgia resolved and creatine kinase quickly declined. The fetus was diagnosed with congenital myotonic dystrophy. We review the impact of myotonic dystrophy on pregnancy and discuss potential explanations for this patient's clinical course. This case emphasises the importance of considering myotonic dystrophy as a differential diagnosis in the right clinical context and the need for pre-pregnancy assessment and genetic counselling in women with known myotonic dystrophy.
Predicting frailty in older adults using vocal biomarkers: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lin Yu-Chun , Yan Huang-Ting , Lin Chih-Hsueh , Chang Hen-Hong
Published: July 2022

Background

Frailty is a common issue in the aging population. Given that frailty syndrome is little discussed in the literature on the aging voice, the current study aims to examine the relationship between frailty and vocal biomarkers in older people.

Methods

Participants aged ≥ 60 years visiting geriatric outpatient clinics were recruited. They underwent frailty assessment (Cardiovascular Health Study [CHS] index; Study of Osteoporotic Fractures [SOF] index; and Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illness, and Loss of weight [FRAIL] index) and were asked to pronounce a sustained vowel /a/ for approximately 1 s. Four voice parameters were assessed: average number of zero crossings (A1), variations in local peaks and valleys (A2), variations in first and second formant frequencies (A3), and spectral energy ratio (A4).

Results

Among 277 older adults, increased A1 was associated with a lower likelihood of frailty as defined by SOF (odds ratio [OR] 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74–0.96). Participants with larger A2 values were more likely to be frail, as defined by FRAIL and CHS (FRAIL: OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.12–1.79; CHS: OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.10–1.75). Sex differences were observed across the three frailty indices. In male participants, an increase in A3 by 10 points increased the odds of frailty by almost 7% (SOF: OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.02–1.12), 6% (FRAIL: OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02–1.11), or 6% (CHS: OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01–1.11). In female participants, an increase in A4 by 0.1 conferred a significant 2.8-fold (SOF: OR 2.81, 95% CI 1.71–4.62), 2.3-fold (FRAIL: OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.45–3.68), or 2.8-fold (CHS: OR 2.82, 95% CI 1.76–4.51, CHS) increased odds of frailty.

Conclusions

Vocal biomarkers, especially spectral-domain voice parameters, might have potential for estimating frailty, as a non-invasive, instantaneous, objective, and cost-effective estimation tool, and demonstrating sex differences for individualised treatment of frailty.
Detection of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) in exhaled breath as a potential diagnostic method for oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Kwon Ik-Jae , Jung Tae-Young , Son Youjeong , Kim Bongju , Kim Soung-Min , Lee Jong-Ho
Published: July 2022

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma causes a significant proportion of global cancer morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the exhaled breath test can be a new, non-invasive, and effective method for diagnosing oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods

A comparative analysis of exhaled breath between patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and healthy controls (HC) was performed with the Twin Breasor II™, a simple gas chromatography system.

Results

Both hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and methyl mercaptan (Ch3SH) were significantly higher in the OSCC group than in the HC group. The total sulfur concentration was also higher in the OSCC group, but there was no significant difference in the ratio of Ch3SH to H2S between the two groups. Using logistic regression, we constructed a new variable with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.740, 68.0% sensitivity, and 72.0% specificity.

Conclusions

Exhaled gas analysis via simple gas chromatography can potentially serve as an accessory non-invasive method for OSCC diagnosis.
Evaluation of selected hematological, biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in stored canine CPDA-1 whole blood
Authors: Bujok Jolanta , Wajman Eliza , Trochanowska-Pauk Natalia , Walski Tomasz
Published: July 2022

Blood transfusions are mainly given to intensive care patients; therefore, additional complications that could arise from storage lesions in preserved blood should be avoided. It has been shown that human stored red blood cells are subject to changes that are considered to be a number of interdependent processes involving metabolic disarrangement and oxidative stress. The aim of our study was to determine alterations in selected hematological and biochemical parameters and to assess whether and when oxidative stress is a significant phenomenon in stored dog CPDA-1 whole blood. Ten ½ unit bags of whole blood donated from dogs and preserved with CPDA-1 (anticoagulant containing citrate, phosphate, dextrose and adenine) were stored for 5 weeks. Each week, a 9 ml sample was drawn aseptically to measure hematological parameters, selected metabolites, free hemoglobin content, osmotic fragility, antioxidant enzyme activity, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde concentration and protein carbonyl content.

The results revealed an MCV decrease in the first week of storage and then a gradual increase; osmotic fragility decreased at that time and remained low throughout the study period. Leukodepletion became significant in the fourth week of storage. The free hemoglobin concentration continuously increased, with the greatest changes observed in the last two weeks of storage. The total antioxidant capacity changed in a reverse manner. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities decreased from week 0 to week 3, and catalase activity tended to decrease over time. The highest malondialdehyde concentrations in blood supernatant were measured in the first week of storage, and the carbonyl concentration increased after 35 days.

Hematological changes and oxidative stress are already present in the first week of storage, resulting in depletion of the antioxidant system and subsequent accumulation of oxidation products as well as erythrocyte hemolysis, which are most pronounced at the end of the storage period.
Relationship between the triglyceride-glucose index and risk of cardiovascular diseases and mortality in the general population: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Xiao , Tan Ziqi , Huang Yuna , Zhao Huilei , Liu Menglu , Yu Peng , Ma Jianyong , Zhao Yujie , Zhu Wengen , Wang Jingfeng
Published: July 2022

Background

The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a new alternative measure for insulin resistance. This meta-analysis was conducted to assess the associations of the TyG index with the risks of cardiovascular diseases and mortality in the general population.

Methods

The PubMed, Cochrane Library and Embase databases were searched for randomized controlled trials or observational cohort studies reporting associations of the TyG index with cardiovascular diseases and mortality from inception to April 16, 2022. Effect sizes were pooled using random-effects models. Robust error meta-regression methods were applied to fit nonlinear dose–response associations. Evidence quality levels and recommendations were assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system (GRADE).

Results

Twelve cohort studies (6 prospective and 6 retrospective cohorts) involving 6,354,990 participants were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with the lowest TyG index category, the highest TyG index was related to a higher incidence of coronary artery disease (CAD) (3 studies; hazard ratio [HR] = 2.01; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.68–2.40; I2 = 0%), myocardial infarction (MI) (2 studies; HR = 1.36; 95% CI 1.18–1.56; I2 = 35%), and composite cardiovascular disease (CVD) (5 studies; HR = 1.46; 95% CI 1.23–1.74; I2 = 82%). However, there was no association between the TyG index and mortality (cardiovascular mortality [3 studies; HR = 1.10; 95% CI 0.82–1.47; I2 = 76%] or all-cause mortality [4 studies; HR = 1.08; 95% CI 0.92–1.27; I2 = 87%]). In the dose–response analysis, there was a linear association of the TyG index with the risk of CAD (Pnonlinear = 0.3807) or CVD (Pnonlinear = 0.0612). GRADE assessment indicated very low certainty for CVD, MI, cardiovascular mortality and all-cause mortality, and moderate certainty for CAD.

Conclusions

Based on our current evidence, a higher TyG index may be associated with an increased incidence of CAD (moderate certainty), MI (very low certainty) and CVD (very low certainty) in the general population. There is a potential linear association of the TyG index with CAD and the composite CVD incidence. Further prospective studies (especially in non-Asians) are needed to confirm our findings.
A closer look at the WHO cone bioassay: video analysis of the hidden effects of a human host on mosquito behaviour and insecticide contact
Authors: Hughes Angela , Matope Agnes , Emery Mischa , Steen Keith , Murray Gregory , Ranson Hilary , McCall Philip J. , Foster Geraldine M.
Published: July 2022

Background

The WHO cone test is one of three tests currently used to evaluate the efficacy of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs). It generates two test outputs, knockdown and 24-h mortality, both indicative of immediate toxicity but that reveal little about the nature of mosquito and ITN interaction or how results translate to real-world settings.

Methods

A human arm held 5 mm behind the net surface acted as a host attractant during cone tests and a smartphone was used to capture mosquito behaviour in the cone. Post-exposure blood feeding and survival for nine days were recorded; ingested blood meal size was determined by measuring excreted haematin. Four strains of Anopheles gambiae (insecticide susceptible: Kisumu and N’gousso; insecticide resistant: Banfora and VK7) were tested with and without the host attractant using untreated, Permanet 2.0 and Olyset nets. Video recordings were scan sampled every five seconds to record mosquito positions on either the net, in flight or in contact with the cone. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyse all data except survival within nine days which was analysed using Weighted Cox Regression.

Results

Net contact was the most frequently recorded behaviour in all Anopheles spp. strains on all nets. Adding the human host as attractant triggered excitatory behaviours: in all strains, the magnitude of net contact was significantly decreased compared to tests without a host. ITN exposure altered the observed behaviour of the two susceptible strains, which exhibited a decreased response to the host during ITN tests. The resistant strains did not alter their behaviour during ITN tests. Significantly less net contact was observed during Olyset Net tests compared to Permanet 2.0. The host presence affected survival after exposure: Banfora and VK7 mosquitoes exposed to Permanet 2.0 with a host lived longer compared to tests performed without a host. However, mosquitoes that blood-fed and survived long enough to digest the blood meal did not exhibit significantly reduced longevity regardless of the presence of the host attractant.

Conclusions

Simple modifications to the WHO cone test and extension of post-test monitoring beyond the current 24 h enable detailed behavioural characterizations of individual ITNs to be compiled. The effects observed from testing with a host and including blood feeding suggest that more representative estimates of true of ITN efficacy are gained with these modifications than when using the current testing protocol.
Next-generation engineered nanogold for multimodal cancer therapy and imaging: a clinical perspectives
Authors: Alle Madhusudhan , Sharma Garima , Lee Seung-Hwan , Kim Jin-Chul
Published: July 2022

Cancer is one of the significant threats to human life. Although various latest technologies are currently available to treat cancer, it still accounts for millions of death each year worldwide. Thus, creating a need for more developed and novel technologies to combat this deadly condition. Nanoparticles-based cancer therapeutics have offered a promising approach to treat cancer effectively while minimizing adverse events. Among various nanoparticles, nanogold (AuNPs) are biocompatible and have proved their efficiency in treating cancer because they can reach tumors via enhanced permeability and retention effect. The size and shape of the AuNPs are responsible for their diverse therapeutic behavior. Thus, to modulate their therapeutic values, the AuNPs can be synthesized in various shapes, such as spheres, cages, flowers, shells, prisms, rods, clusters, etc. Also, attaching AuNPs with single or multiple targeting agents can facilitate the active targeting of AuNPs to the tumor tissue. The AuNPs have been much explored for photothermal therapy (PTT) to treat cancer. In addition to PTT, AuNPs-based nanoplatforms have been investigated for combinational multimodal therapies in the last few years, including photodynamic therapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, etc., to ablate cancer cells. Thus, the present review focuses on the recent advancements in the functionalization of AuNPs-based nanoconstructs for cancer imaging and therapy using combinatorial multimodal approaches to treat various cancers.

Graphical Abstract
Myoelectric interface training enables targeted reduction in abnormal muscle co-activation
Authors: Seo Gang , Kishta Ameen , Mugler Emily , Slutzky Marc W. , Roh Jinsook
Published: July 2022

Background

Abnormal patterns of muscle co-activation contribute to impaired movement after stroke. Previously, we developed a myoelectric computer interface (MyoCI) training paradigm to improve stroke-induced arm motor impairment by reducing the abnormal co-activation of arm muscle pairs. However, it is unclear to what extent the paradigm induced changes in the overall intermuscular coordination in the arm, as opposed to changing just the muscles trained with the MyoCI. This study examined the intermuscular coordination patterns of thirty-two stroke survivors who participated in 6 weeks of MyoCI training.

Methods

We used non-negative matrix factorization to identify the arm muscle synergies (coordinated patterns of muscle activity) during a reaching task before and after the training. We examined the extent to which synergies changed as the training reduced motor impairment. In addition, we introduced a new synergy analysis metric, disparity index (DI), to capture the changes in the individual muscle weights within a synergy.

Results

There was no consistent pattern of change in the number of synergies across the subjects after the training. The composition of muscle synergies, calculated using a traditional synergy similarity metric, also did not change after the training. However, the disparity of muscle weights within synergies increased after the training in the participants who responded to MyoCI training—that is, the specific muscles that the MyoCI was targeting became less correlated within a synergy. This trend was not observed in participants who did not respond to the training.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that MyoCI training reduced arm impairment by decoupling only the muscles trained while leaving other muscles relatively unaffected. This suggests that, even after injury, the nervous system is capable of motor learning on a highly fractionated level. It also suggests that MyoCI training can do what it was designed to do—enable stroke survivors to reduce abnormal co-activation in targeted muscles.

Trial registration This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03579992, Registered 09 July 2018—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03579992?term=NCT03579992&draw=2&rank=1)
YY1 accelerates oral squamous cell carcinoma progression through long non-coding RNA Kcnq1ot1/microRNA-506-3p/SYPL1 axis
Authors: Ding Yi , Duan Heng , Lin Jian , Zhang Xuanxuan
Published: July 2022

Objective

Ying Yang1 (YY1) has already been discussed in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but the knowledge about its mediation on long non-coding RNA KCNQ1 overlapping transcript 1/microRNA-506-3p/synaptophysin like 1 (Kcnq1ot/miR-506-3p/SYPL1) axis in OSCC is still in its infancy. Hence, this article aims to explain the mechanism of YY1/Kcnq1ot1/miR-506-3p/SYPL1 axis in OSCC development.

Methods

YY1, Kcnq1ot1, miR-506-3p and SYPL1 expression levels were determined in OSCC tissues. The potential relation among YY1, Kcnq1ot1, miR-506-3p and SYPL1 was explored. Cell progression was observed to figure out the actions of depleted YY1, Kcnq1ot1 and SYPL1 and restored miR-506-3p in OSCC. OSCC tumorigenic ability in mice was examined.

Results

Elevated YY1, Kcnq1ot1 and SYPL1 and reduced miR-506-3p were manifested in OSCC. YY1 promoted Kcnq1ot1 transcription and up-regulated Kcnq1ot1 expression, thereby promoting OSCC cell procession. Silencing Kcnq1ot1 or elevating miR-506-3p delayed OSCC cell progression and silencing Kcnq1ot1 impeded tumorigenic ability of OSCC cells in mice. YY1-mediated Kcnq1ot1 sponged miR-506-3p to target SYPL1.

Conclusion

YY1 promotes OSCC cell progression via up-regulating Kcnq1ot1 to sponge miR-506-3p to elevate SYPL1, guiding a novel way to treat OSCC.
Nasal mucosal reactivity assessment via a double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge with cow’s milk allergens
Authors: Krzych-Fałta Edyta , Wojas Oksana , Samel-Kowalik Piotr , Sybilski Adam J. , Samoliński Bolesław
Published: July 2022

Background

Allergies, including food allergies, are a considerable clinical and public-health problem. The introduced preventive measures and differential diagnostics, including oral food challenges, are the gold standard for determining further treatment planning.

Case presentation

We present a case of an 18-year-old girl with a cow’s milk allergy who underwent an oral food challenge (double blind oral food challenge). Such a challenge may be confounded by inducing a response from other systems and organs, which provides theoretical grounds for the use of other methods of assessing the body’s response to food allergens (response demonstrated by the upper respiratory tract). Based on this idea, in order to assess the degree of mucosal response, we used optical rhinometry as an objective method for nasal patency evaluation, as well as identification of tryptase level in nasal lavage fluid and exfoliative cytology of nasal mucosa. The results of these tests confirmed positive reaction of the nasal mucosa in the course of the oral allergen challenge.

Conclusions

The observed increase in the nasal mucosal reactivity that accompanies oral food challenges may suggest a potential for using food allergens in nasal allergen provocation testing in order to diagnose food allergies.
Current concepts and perspectives for articular cartilage regeneration
Authors: Roseti Livia , Grigolo Brunella
Published: July 2022

Articular cartilage injuries are common in the population. The increment in the elderly people and active life results in an increasing demand for new technologies and good outcomes to satisfy longer and healthier life expectancies. However, because of cartilage's low regenerative capacity, finding an efficacious treatment is still challenging for orthopedics.

Since the pioneering studies based on autologous cell transplantation, regenerative medicine has opened new approaches for cartilage lesion treatment.

Tissue engineering combines cells, biomaterials, and biological factors to regenerate damaged tissues, overcoming conventional therapeutic strategies. Cells synthesize matrix structural components, maintain tissue homeostasis by modulating metabolic, inflammatory, and immunologic pathways. Scaffolds are well acknowledged by clinicians in regenerative applications since they provide the appropriate environment for cells, can be easily implanted, reduce surgical morbidity, allow enhanced cell proliferation, maturation, and an efficient and complete integration with surrounding articular cartilage. Growth factors are molecules that facilitate tissue healing and regeneration by stimulating cell signal pathways.

To date, different cell sources and a wide range of natural and synthetic scaffolds have been used both in pre-clinical and clinical studies with the aim to find the suitable solution for recapitulating cartilage microenvironment and inducing the formation of a new tissue with the biochemical and mechanical properties of the native one. Here, we describe the current concepts for articular cartilage regeneration, highlighting the key actors of this process trying to identify the best perspectives.
Plasma and synovial fluid concentrations of linezolid in patients with knee osteoarthritis infected with Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Negishi Daisuke , Mitsumatsu Okimichi , Matsumura Takahiro , Mitsumatsu Hiromi , Makiguchi Miaki , Shimizu Makiko , Yamazaki Hiroshi
Published: July 2022

Background

Linezolid is a new oxazolidinone antibiotic used for infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus and other species.

Case presentation

Two cases of knee osteoarthritis with acute infection were successfully treated using linezolid. The plasma and synovial fluid concentrations of linezolid in two patients [women aged 69 and 73 years (cases 1 and 2)] with knee osteoarthritis infected with Staphylococcus aureus were measured after they were administered 600 mg twice daily by intravenous infusion. The plasma linezolid concentrations during knee surgery in case 1 at day 5 and in case 2 at day 2 were 19.6 and 15.6 μg/mL, respectively. The synovial fluid concentrations of linezolid in samples taken during surgery in case 1 and case 2 were 14.9 and 17.0 μg/mL, respectively; these values corresponded to ratios of synovial fluid/plasma of 76 and 109%. Possible metabolite 2-hydroxylated linezolid potentially mediated by cytochrome P450 2 J2 was not detected in the plasma or synovial fluid samples under the current clinical setting after multiple doses.

Conclusions

These results implied nearly equivalent concentrations of linezolid in plasma and synovial fluid of clinical patients with knee osteoarthritis acutely infected with Staphylococcus aureus.
Role of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in elderly hypertensive patients
Authors: Camafort Miguel , Chung Wook-Jin , Shin Jin-Ho
Published: July 2022

Background

Arterial hypertension is facing some changes in the last years. Its prevalence is increasing in elderly subjects. This growing prevalence is due to longer survival of the population worldwide, among other factors. On the other hand, recent guidelines have insisted in the relevance of out of office blood pressure measurements, to improve diagnostic and management of hypertension. Therefore, elderly subjects with hypertension could benefit from out of office blood pressure measurements, like ambulatory blood pressure measurements; nevertheless, there are very few or no specific recommendations regarding this.

Aim

In this review, we will gather the most important information about this subject.

Results

As hypertension in the elderly has some specific characteristics related to aging of the cardiovascular system, the most important aspect could be that these characteristics make ambulatory blood pressure measurement suitable for its use in elderly. Among those a higher prevalence of white coat hypertension, white coat phenomenon, and a higher nocturnal blood pressure and higher prevalence of nondipper and riser pattern, represent aspects that should be considered for better diagnostic and an improved management.

Conclusion

As the prevalence of hypertension will grow in the next years, more studies specifically directed to this subject are needed.
Blood and CSF biomarkers for post-stroke epilepsy: a systematic review
Authors: Dev Priya , Cyriac Mareena , Chakravarty Kamalesh , Pathak Abhishek
Published: July 2022

Post-stroke epilepsy is a common complication of ischemic stroke which adversely affects the prognosis of patients. Clinical and radiological parameters cannot adequately predict the risk. Therefore, the discovery of biomarkers is imperatively needed for predicting post-stroke epilepsy. We conducted a systematic review of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for post-stroke epilepsy through a comprehensive literature search in different databases. All articles that met our inclusion criteria were assessed for quality using the modified Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies questionnaire. Eight eligible studies were included in this systematic review. Out of 22 assessed biomarkers, nine biomarkers showed significant association with post-stroke epilepsy. The T allele of CD40 (cluster of differentiation 40) −1C/T polymorphism, the CC genotype of TRPM6 (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 6) rs2274924, the allele polymorphism of MAD2 (mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase 2), the mRNA level of interleukin-6 (IL-6), the plasma level of endostatin, and the mRNA expression of IL-1β show a positive correlation with post-stroke epilepsy; while S100 calcium-binding protein B, heat shock 70 kDa protein-8 and neuropeptide Y are inversely associated with post-stroke epilepsy. As a small number of patients were recruited, further studies are needed to confirm their potential use for predicting post-stroke epilepsy.
President's Page: Planetary exploration: What's our geophysical place in space?
Authors: Stewart Robert R.
Published: July 2022

Space is a pretty big place. Internationally defined as that region starting 100 km above earth (the Kármán line where air is too thin to provide wing lift), it includes the home of satellites, space stations, and all of the celestial bodies. With communication and observation satellites increasing by the hundreds per year, rovers energetically wheeling over the lunar and Martian landscapes, numerous missions to the planets and asteroids, and the James Webb Space Telescope peering into the darkest regions of the universe, what's up there is certainly becoming more real and immediate. Recent news showing that plants will grow in lunar soil continues to fire our imaginations that moon settlements, beginning with NASA's Artemis Base Camp at the lunar South Pole, are imminent. Outposts on Mars are probably not far behind. With strong evidence that some 5000 planets orbit other stars (at NASA's latest count and with many millions more likely to be discovered), the universe is looking a lot more cozy — well, at least less lonely. There's plenty to explore up there.