bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV and hepatitis C Virus in internally displaced people with and without injection drug use experience in the region of Shida Kartli, Georgia
Authors: Trovato Adrian , Gogia Maka , Aslanikashvili Ana , Kasrashvili Tamuna , Kovalenko Ganna , Yakovleva Anna , Skaathun Britt , Vasylyeva Tetyana I.
Published: October 2024

Objective

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) can have limited access to HIV and hepatitis C Virus (HCV) treatment and prevention. IDPs comprise > 7% of Georgian population but prevalence and levels of HIV and HCV knowledge in this population remain unknown. We tested 100 IDPs in Georgia for HIV and HCV, many of whom had drug injecting experience, and interviewed them about their migration experience, sexual and drug injecting practices, and HIV/HCV transmission knowledge.

Results

The average age of participants was 37.5 years (range 18–63); 31% were women. Almost half (N = 48) of participants reported ever injecting drugs; 17% of those (N = 8) started injecting drugs within the last year. Anti-HCV and HIV prevalence was 11% and 0%, respectively. Fewer people without drug use experience compared to people who inject drugs correctly answered all questions on the HIV knowledge test (13% vs. 35%, p = 0.015) or knew where to get tested for HIV (67% vs 98%, p < 0.001). There was no difference in HCV knowledge between the two groups. HIV and HCV prevalence remains low among Georgian IDPs, but levels of HIV knowledge were much lower than levels of HCV knowledge.
The role of MRI in radiotherapy planning: a narrative review “from head to toe”
Authors: De Pietro Simona , Di Martino Giulia , Caroprese Mara , Barillaro Angela , Cocozza Sirio , Pacelli Roberto , Cuocolo Renato , Ugga Lorenzo , Briganti Francesco , Brunetti Arturo , Conson Manuel , Elefante Andrea
Published: October 2024

Over the last few years, radiation therapy (RT) techniques have evolved very rapidly, with the aim of conforming high-dose volume tightly to a target. Although to date CT is still considered the imaging modality for target delineation, it has some known limited capabilities in properly identifying pathologic processes occurring, for instance, in soft tissues. This limitation, along with other advantages such as dose reduction, can be overcome using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which is increasingly being recognized as a useful tool in RT clinical practice. This review has a two-fold aim of providing a basic introduction to the physics of MRI in a narrative way and illustrating the current knowledge on its application “from head to toe” (i.e., different body sites), in order to highlight the numerous advantages in using MRI to ensure the best therapeutic response. We provided a basic introduction for residents and non-radiologist on the physics of MR and reported evidence of the advantages and future improvements of MRI in planning a tailored radiotherapy treatment “from head to toe”.

Critical relevance statement

This review aims to help understand how MRI has become indispensable, not only to better characterize and evaluate lesions, but also to predict the evolution of the disease and, consequently, to ensure the best therapeutic response.

Key Points

MRI is increasingly gaining interest and applications in RT planning.

MRI provides high soft tissue contrast resolution and accurate delineation of the target volume.

MRI will increasingly become indispensable for characterizing and evaluating lesions, and to predict the evolution of disease.

Graphical Abstract
CoFFEE: a codec-based forensic feature extraction and evaluation software for H.264 videos
Authors: Bertazzini Giulia , Baracchi Daniele , Shullani Dasara , Iuliani Massimo , Piva Alessandro
Published: October 2024

The forensic analysis of digital videos is becoming increasingly relevant to deal with forensic cases, propaganda, and fake news. The research community has developed numerous forensic tools to address various challenges, such as integrity verification, manipulation detection, and source characterization. Each tool exploits characteristic traces to reconstruct the video life-cycle. Among these traces, a significant source of information is provided by the specific way in which the video has been encoded. While several tools are available to analyze codec-related information for images, a similar approach has been overlooked for videos, since video codecs are extremely complex and involve the analysis of a huge amount of data. In this paper, we present a new tool designed for extracting and parsing a plethora of video compression information from H.264 encoded files, including macroblocks structure, prediction residuals, and motion vectors. We demonstrate how the extracted features can be effectively exploited to address various forensic tasks, such as social network identification, source characterization, and double compression detection. We provide a detailed description of the developed software, which is released free of charge to enable its use by the research community to create new tools for forensic analysis of video files.
Wrapping input–output multipliers in confidence intervals
Authors: Stehrer Robert , Rueda-Cantuche José Manuel , Amores Antonio F. , Zenz David
Published: October 2024

Input–output multipliers are typically calculated as point estimates of the Leontief quantity model. From the previous literature, they can also be estimated (and their confidence intervals) directly from establishments’/industries’ inputs and outputs data by running an appropriate econometric regression. However, previous contributions relied on analyses carried out for 1 single year, one country/region and a reduced number of degrees of freedom. This paper tests the robustness of the previous literature by using instead a time series of large-scale inter-country supply, use and input–output database with more than one country and more than 1 year, as well as panel data econometrics.
Socio-demographic, clinical variables and pain among Egyptian patients of opioid use disorder with and without comorbid gabapentin use
Authors: Nagy Nahla , Mohsen Nesreen , Elrassas Hanan , Dardeer Nourhan , Elawady Sara
Published: October 2024

Introduction

There is increased clinical use of gabapentin, these trends appear to chronologically align with the opioid overdose crisis and particularly with the increased restrictions on opioid prescription.

Objectives

The study aimed to assess the clinical variables, pain quality, and severity among patients with opioid use disorder as the main substance with and without gabapentin comorbid use.

Methods

The research involved 60 patients diagnosed with substance use disorder, divided into two groups: opioid use as the main substance and opioid use with comorbid gabapentin. All participants were assessed using a semi-structured clinical addiction interview, the structured clinical interview for diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, the Addiction Severity Index, urine drug test, McGill Pain Questionnaire, and Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questionnaire, in one interview setting.

Results

The study showed that pain relief was the main desirable effect in the gabapentin group, with 66.2% of the group experiencing it. Euphoria was the desirable effect in the opioid group, while overdose was more common in the gabapentin group. Respiratory complications were also more common in the Gabapentin group.

Conclusion

The study concluded that patients with comorbid gabapentin use disorder had a higher frequency of overdose, history of pain, and significant neuropathic pain, while less abstinence.
Effect of classical prolotherapy technique in knee osteoarthritis for a sample of Egyptian population: clinical and imaging study
Authors: Abdel-Fattah Yousra Hisham , Mohasseb Diaa Fahmy , Kotb Hesham Taha , Mostafa Safaa Ibrahim , Abdelnaby Hoda Mohamed Aly
Published: October 2024

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a progressive musculoskeletal disease that leads to physical impairment and disability. Several nonoperative therapeutic options have been proposed to reduce symptoms, improve physical function, and prevent disability. One of these therapeutic options is dextrose prolotherapy (DPT). The current study aimed to investigate the efficacy of DPT in the treatment of symptomatic KOA and to evaluate its potential proliferative role as assessed by musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results

Seventeen knees (21.25%) dropped out, leaving 63 knees in the final analysis (57 females and 6 males, aged 41–74 years) with KOA. At 24-week follow-up, the visual analogue scale and overall Western Ontario and McMaster Universities scores showed significant improvement (P < 0.001). Moreover, a highly significant increase in cartilage thickness with a decrease in effusion grade and meniscal extrusion was observed by MSUS (P < 0.001). By MRI, there was a statistically significant decrease in effusion grade (P = 0.013) and meniscal extrusion (P = 0.005) and a highly significant increase in cartilage thickness (P < 0.001). Logistic analysis showed that lower patients’ body mass index (BMI) at baseline was a significant predictor for clinical improvement following DPT.

Conclusion

DPT might be considered a relatively safe minimally invasive intervention for the treatment of KOA with high adherence and satisfaction. It may lead to significant clinical and structural improvement in patients with KOA. Furthermore, lower BMI is a predicting factor for better clinical response to DPT.

Trial registration

The study was registered prospectively in ClinicalTrials.gov: clinical trial registration number NCT04178304 on 21 November 2019, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/XXX.
Risk of physical health comorbidities in autistic adults: clinical nested cross-sectional study
Authors: Hunt Megan , Underwood Jack F. G. , Hubbard Leon , Hall Jeremy
Published: October 2024

Background

Physical health conditions are more common in individuals with autism. Some, like epilepsy, have considerable evidence supporting their increased prevalence, but many diseases lack literature to make strong conclusions.

Aims

To investigate the prevalence of physical health comorbidities in autism.

Method

We undertook a nested cross-sectional study, using a sample from the National Centre for Mental Health database. It included participants from England and Wales who reported a clinician-made diagnosis of autism (n = 813), and a control sample without autism or mental illness (n = 2781). Participants had provided a medical history at enrolment. Analysis was carried out by binomial logistic regressions controlling for age, gender, smoking status, and antipsychotic and mood stabiliser use. A subanalysis of individuals with concurrent intellectual disability (n = 86) used binomial logistic regression with the same control variables.

Results

Many physical health conditions were significantly more common in autism. Sixteen out of 28 conditions showed increased odds, with the highest odds ratios observed for liver disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, kidney disease, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. A subanalysis demonstrated a similar pattern of physical health in individuals with autism with and without concurrent intellectual disability. Some conditions, including osteoporosis, hyperthyroidism, head injury and liver disease, had larger odds ratios in individuals with concurrent intellectual disability.

Conclusions

Physical health conditions occur more commonly in individuals with autism, and certain conditions are further increased in those with concurrent intellectual disability. Our findings contribute to prior evidence, including novel associations, and suggest that people with autism are at greater risk of physical health problems throughout adulthood.
Exogenous Opioids and the Human Endocrine System: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement
Authors: Karavitaki Niki , Bettinger Jeffrey J , Biermasz Nienke , Christ-Crain Mirjam , Gadelha Monica R , Inder Warrick J , Tsourdi Elena , Wakeman Sarah E , Zatelli Maria
Published: October 2024

The use and misuse of opioids are a growing global problem. Although the effects of these drugs on the human endocrine system have been studied for decades, attention on their related clinical consequences, particularly on the hypothalamic-pituitary system and bone health, has intensified over recent years. This Statement appraises research data related to the impact of opioids on the gonadal and adrenal function. Whereas hypogonadism is well recognized as a side effect of opioids, the significance of their inhibitory actions on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system and the occurrence of clinically relevant adrenal insufficiency is not fully elucidated. The often-inconsistent results of studies investigating how opioids affect the secretion of GH, prolactin, arginine vasopressin, and oxytocin are assessed. The accumulating evidence of opioid actions on bone metabolism and their negative sequelae on bone mineral density and risk of fracture are also reviewed. In each section, available data on diagnostic and management approaches for opioid endocrine sequelae are described. This Statement highlights a plethora of gaps in research associated with the effects and clinical consequences of opioids on the endocrine system. It is anticipated that addressing these gaps will improve the care of people using or misusing opioids worldwide. The Statement is not intended to serve as a guideline or dictate treatment decisions.
Normal Approximation of Random Gaussian Neural Networks
Authors: Apollonio Nicola , De Canditiis Daniela , Franzina Giovanni , Stolfi Paola , Torrisi Giovanni Luca
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we provide explicit upper bounds on some distances between the (law of the) output of a random Gaussian neural network and (the law of) a random Gaussian vector. Our main results concern deep random Gaussian neural networks with a rather general activation function. The upper bounds show how the widths of the layers, the activation function, and other architecture parameters affect the Gaussian approximation of the output. Our techniques, relying on Stein’s method and integration by parts formulas for the Gaussian law, yield estimates on distances that are indeed integral probability metrics and include the convex distance. This latter metric is defined by testing against indicator functions of measurable convex sets and so allows for accurate estimates of the probability that the output is localized in some region of the space, which is an aspect of a significant interest both from a practitioner’s and a theorist’s perspective. We illustrated our results by some numerical examples.

Funding: This research was supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research project WARIFA under grant agreement no. 101017385, by the PRIN project 2022 “Variational Analysis of Complex Systems in Materials Science, Physics and Biology” (CUP B53D23009290006), and by the INdAM project “Modelli ed Algoritmi per dati ad elevata dimensionalità” (CUP E53C23001670001).
Percepções sobre conversas profissionais síncronas e assíncronas com recursos tecnológicos na mentoria
Authors: Marini Carolina , Cury de Barros Bruna , De Medeiros Rodrigues Reali Aline Maria
Published: October 2024

Este trabalho refere-se a uma pesquisa exploratória de caráter qualitativo que investigou como se dão conversas profissionais entre uma mentora e uma professora iniciante (PI) em diferentes espaços/recursos (síncronos e assíncronos), no contexto do Programa Híbrido de Mentoria (PHM). Os dados analisados são provenientes de uma entrevista com a mentora e de narrativas escritas da díade mentor-PI (M-PI) no ambiente virtual de aprendizagem (AVA). Os resultados indicam que a combinação de interações síncronas com assíncronas apresentaram diferentes potencialidades e limites no estabelecimento de conversas profissionais. Com relação às potencialidades, destacam-se: o estabelecimento de vínculo de confiança; troca de experiências profissionais; construção de aprendizagens sobre a docência; favorecimento de processos reflexivos; viabilização da identificação das demandas da PI; planejamento das ações de mentoria. Quanto aos limites, observou-se: a baixa assiduidade em atividades assíncronas; narrativas escritas com pouco detalhamento sobre as práticas; a necessidade de apresentar uma escrita clara nas comandas das atividades; desconforto na interação em vídeo-chamadas. Constata-se que a integração de recursos síncronos e assíncronos permite o estabelecimento de conversas profissionais, favorecendo o desenvolvimento das ações de mentoria.
Racial injury in public space: narratives of black students
Authors: Ferreira Claudia Aparecida Avelar , Nunes Simone Costa
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study is to describe the experiences of racial injury through narratives of black university students in public space. It was adopted a qualitative approach and, polar case study. This research looking for identify, in the excerpts, the elements of a discursive practice that reinforces the prejudice black women, in public space in Brazil. The study evidence scans that racial injury begins in school with microinsult to microassault, perpetuates differently in the workplace, therefore, the racial dynamics in Brazil leave black women prone to mental suffering with racial injuries in the public space and their voices do not echo like the voices of white women.
René Descartes: sua contribuição para a ciência moderna e o impacto das suas ideias na educação
Authors: Andrade de Jesus Lelis Diego , Mesquida Peri , Rodrigues de Oliveira Júnior Abdias
Published: October 2024

A história humana mistura-se a busca pela verdade. Nos mais diversos tempos e por inúmeros meios se defendeu possuí-la. Essa busca também foi a Descartes (1596-1650), através da constituição de um método. Objetiva-se, para este artigo, por meio de um estudo de natureza exegética, discutir sobre a contribuição de Descartes na fundamentação do sistema científico moderno e o impacto de suas ideias na educação. Os resultados apontam que a criação do método fiável e verificável foi decisivo para o desenvolvimento do sistema científico moderno. Descartes não se dedicou a tecer reflexões diretas para o sistema escolar, contudo, apregoam ao seu método a base para do fragmentação do conhecimento e do ensino, mas foi verificado que em sua teoria e método não há fundamento para a separação das partes sem que haja também a junção dessas partes ao todo.
Creche: revisão bibliográfica (2013 a 2019)
Authors: Rosa Joana Possidônio , Vasconcellos Vera Maria Ramos de
Published: October 2024

O artigo analisa as produções de quatro Programas de Pós-graduação em Educação da universidade, no período de 2003 a 2019. Das 39 produções científicas cadastradas no banco de dados da CAPES (31 teses e 08 dissertações), tendo o termo de busca – Creche e por contexto os municípios do estado do Rio de Janeiro, 22 são creches municipais, 10 creches Universitárias, três Comunitárias e quatro Institucionais. Os procedimentos metodológicos adotados dão destaque às temáticas (políticas públicas, diversidade, fazer pedagógico, formação profissional e família), objetivos, metodologias, instrumentos e resultados. Os resultados apontam o crescente número de investigações relacionadas a Educação Infantil. O artigo resume às pesquisas realizadas nos programas de pós-graduação da universidade, em especial as voltadas para as creches.
Limitations of orthodontic treatment: Class III camouflage
Authors: McElroy Caroline , DiBiase Andrew
Published: October 2024

Class III malocclusion treatment planning in the non-growing patient can represent a challenge. The options of whether to attempt orthodontic camouflage or to treat with orthognathic surgery are affected by numerous factors, including the severity of the underlying skeletal relationship, the dento-alveolar compensation already present, the facial aesthetics, the patient's concerns and expectations, and the anatomical limits of orthodontic tooth movement. Numerous studies have tried to provide guidance by looking at the differences between groups of patients to determine whether they should be treated orthodontically or surgically. However, owing to the retrospective nature of these studies and their heterogeneity, they prove less helpful than desired. In this narrative review, the authors will look at these studies to provide some guidance for the orthodontist.

CPD/Clinical Relevance:

Treatment planning in Class III malocclusions can be challenging owing to the numerous factors that must be considered.
Clear aligners for patients with severe gingival recession: A case report
Authors: De Fidelibus Veronica Afonso , Singh Parmjit
Published: October 2024

Fixed appliances are an excellent treatment approach for mild to severe malocclusions. Increasingly, aligner-based treatments are being provided as a treatment option. The latter may be preferable to fixed appliances in selected cases. A young adult with severe gingival recession is presented who was treated successfully with aligner-based treatment with minimal deterioration of the gingival tissue levels. However, limits should be applied to the buccal and labial movement of teeth to reduce the risk of worsening of the gingival recession.

CPD/Clinical Relevance:

Aligner-based treatment may be preferable for orthodontic patients with severe gingival recession.
Surgical orthodontics in a patient with β-thalassaemia major. A case report
Authors: Farhadi Maziar , Farjaminejad Rosana , Farjaminejad Samira , Marya Anand , Jamilian Abdolreza
Published: October 2024

Treating patients with prognathic maxillae is a multifaceted process, especially when dealing with thalassaemia complications. This case study addresses the issue of severe maxillary protrusion in a woman living with β-thalassaemia major who had presented with pronounced maxillary protrusion, lip incompetence and an everted upper lip. Following initial alignment and levelling using the 0.018inch standard edgewise system, the patient underwent a Le Fort I osteotomy procedure. Segmental osteotomy was ruled out owing to the heightened risk of excessive bleeding. The outcomes demonstrated successful management of the thalassaemic patient through presurgical orthodontics, LeFort I osteotomy, and subsequent post-surgical orthodontics and periodontics. The patient exhibited improved facial aesthetics after an active treatment period of 4 years.

CPD/Clinical Relevance:

Orthodontic treatment for patients with β-thalassaemia major and skeletal Class II malocclusion with prognathic maxillae requires a multidisciplinary approach, including Le Fort I osteotomy and careful management of elevated bleeding risks
Time-varying materials for analog optical computing
Authors: Levkovskaya Valeriya M. , Kharitonov Anton V. , Kharintsev Sergey S.
Published: October 2024

Subject of study. In this study, a new class of artificial electromagnetic media, known as time-varying materials, is explored. These materials are characterized by a rapid modulation of their optical parameters on ultrashort timescales that are comparable to or shorter than the wave period. Aim of study. The aim of this study was to develop a new platform for implementing analog optical computers. Specifically, we investigated the dependence of the amplitudes and frequencies of waves, formed through interaction with a time-varying medium, on the permittivity switching time and magnitude of spectral dispersion. Method. The amplitudes of reflected and refracted electromagnetic waves were calculated using the time-domain finite-element method. A Lorentz model with a time-dependent plasma frequency was employed to analyze the time-varying medium with spectral dispersion. The optical response of the medium, which exhibited noninstantaneous switching, was studied by considering a sigmoidal switching profile. Main results. Our findings show that a dispersive time-varying medium can generate several spectral components that are shifted from the frequency of the incident light. By controlling the speed and depth of permittivity switching, the amplitudes and frequencies of the time-reflected/refracted waves can be adjusted. To observe the reflected wave, the duration of switching should be comparable to or less than the period of the incident wave. Practical significance. The results of this study are valuable for developing next-generation optical devices. The ability to flexibly control the amplitude and frequency of light waves through the temporal modulation of homogeneous media offers new opportunities for the realization of analog optical computers.
iModulonMiner and PyModulon: Software for unsupervised mining of gene expression compendia
Authors: Sastry Anand V. , Yuan Yuan , Poudel Saugat , Rychel Kevin , Yoo Reo , Lamoureux Cameron R. , Li Gaoyuan , Burrows Joshua T. , Chauhan Siddharth , Haiman Zachary B. , Al Bulushi Tahani , Seif Yara , Palsson Bernhard O. , Zielinski Daniel C.
Published: October 2024

Public gene expression databases are a rapidly expanding resource of organism responses to diverse perturbations, presenting both an opportunity and a challenge for bioinformatics workflows to extract actionable knowledge of transcription regulatory network function. Here, we introduce a five-step computational pipeline, called iModulonMiner, to compile, process, curate, analyze, and characterize the totality of RNA-seq data for a given organism or cell type. This workflow is centered around the data-driven computation of co-regulated gene sets using Independent Component Analysis, called iModulons, which have been shown to have broad applications. As a demonstration, we applied this workflow to generate the iModulon structure of Bacillus subtilis using all high-quality, publicly-available RNA-seq data. Using this structure, we predicted regulatory interactions for multiple transcription factors, identified groups of co-expressed genes that are putatively regulated by undiscovered transcription factors, and predicted properties of a recently discovered single-subunit phage RNA polymerase. We also present a Python package, PyModulon, with functions to characterize, visualize, and explore computed iModulons. The pipeline, available at https://github.com/SBRG/iModulonMiner, can be readily applied to diverse organisms to gain a rapid understanding of their transcriptional regulatory network structure and condition-specific activity.
Prolonging the circulatory half-life of C1 esterase inhibitor via albumin fusion
Authors: Sivananthan Sangavi , Bhakta Varsha , Chaechi Tehrani Negin , Sheffield William P.
Published: October 2024

Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by episodic swelling, arising from genetic deficiency in C1-esterase inhibitor (C1INH), a regulator of several proteases including activated Plasma kallikrein (Pka). Many existing C1INH treatments exhibit short circulatory half-lives, precluding prophylactic use. Hexahistidine-tagged truncated C1INH (trC1INH lacking residues 1–97) with Mutated N-linked Glycosylation Sites N216Q/N231Q/N330Q (H6-trC1INH(MGS)), its murine serum albumin (MSA) fusion variant (H6-trC1INH(MGS)-MSA), and H6-MSA were expressed in Pichia pastoris and purified via nickel-chelate chromatography. Following intravenous injection in mice, the mean terminal half-life of H6-trC1INH(MGS)-MSA was significantly increased versus that of H6-trC1INH(MGS), by 3-fold, while remaining ~35% less than that of H6-MSA. The extended half-life was achieved with minimal, but significant, reduction in the mean second order rate constant of Pka inhibition of H6-trC1INH(MGS)-MSA by 33% relative to that of H6-trC1INH(MGS). Our results validate albumin fusion as a viable strategy for half-life extension of a natural inhibitor and suggest that H6-trC1INH(MGS)-MSA is worthy of investigation in a murine model of HAE.
A dynamic authorizable ciphertext image retrieval algorithm based on security neural network inference
Authors: Zhang Xin-Yu , Hong Jing-Wei
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we propose a dynamic authorizable ciphertext image retrieval scheme based on secure neural network inference that effectively enhances the security of image retrieval while preserving privacy. To ensure the privacy of the original image and enable feature extraction without decryption operations, we employ a secure neural network for feature extraction during the index construction stage of encrypted images. Additionally, we introduce a dynamic authenticatable ciphertext retrieval algorithm to enhance system flexibility and security by enabling users to quickly and flexibly retrieve authorized images. Experimental results demonstrate that our scheme guarantees data image privacy throughout the entire process from upload to retrieval compared to similar literature schemes. Furthermore, our scheme ensures data availability while maintaining security, allowing users to conveniently perform image retrieval operations. Although overall efficiency may not be optimal according to experimental results, our solution satisfies practical application needs in cloud computing environments by providing an efficient and secure image retrieval solution.
Age-related changes in gait, balance, and strength parameters: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Rezaei Asghar , Bhat Sandesh G. , Cheng Chih-Hsiu , Pignolo Robert J. , Lu Lichun , Kaufman Kenton R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Longevity is increasing worldwide due to improvements in healthcare and living standards. Aging is often associated with disability and multiple health concerns. To address these challenges, effective interventions are essential. This study investigated potential age-related declines in gait, balance, and strength. We also sought to assess any relationships between these three parameters and explore potential differences between women and men.

Methods

Healthy individuals over 50 years of age were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Upper extremity (grip) strength and lower extremity (knee) strength of the dominant side were measured. Static balance was performed on the force plate in different situations each for 30 seconds: bilateral stance with eyes open, bilateral stance with eyes closed, as well as dominant leg and non-dominant leg unilateral stance with eyes open. Gait was measured during level walking using an optical motion capture system. Additionally, the dynamic stability margin (DSM) was calculated for the level walking trials.

Results

The study results indicated that gait parameters were not significantly affected by age (p≥0.12), while knee and grip strength, along with several balance parameters, showed a significant decline with age. All individuals were able to maintain their bipedal balance, but their center of pressure movement increased significantly by age (p≤0.028). Z-scores were calculated to compare significant age parameters. Unipedal stance time was found to be the most affected by age compared to other contributing factors (p≤0.001). The duration of unipedal balance showed the most significant change per decade (non-dominant: -0.62 SDs; dominant: -0.53 SDs), while strength measures exhibited the lowest amount of change per decade (grip strength: -0.34 SDs; knee strength: -0.26 SDs). Sex differences were observed exclusively in strength parameters, with no discernible impact on the decline in balance parameters.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the duration of unipedal stance can serve as a reliable and gender-independent measure of neuromuscular aging for both elderly male and female subjects.
Restaurant staff’s knowledge, practices, and attitudes pertaining to food allergy in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Alkhalaf Ghadi A. , Aljuaylan Norah A. , Alsaud Jolan S. , Aljokaidb Boshra A. , Aljalaood Fatima R.
Published: October 2024

Food allergies, often triggered by minute amounts of certain foods, affect people of all ages and frequently occur in dining-out settings. Previous research in Saudi Arabia has not investigated the extent of restaurant workers’ knowledge of food allergies and their role in protecting patrons from allergic reactions. This descriptive study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of restaurant staff regarding food allergies in Qassim, Saudi Arabia between January and March 2023. Interviews and observations were conducted in four stages, and data were analyzed using the Environmental Health Specialists Network Food Allergen Study Protocol. Results showed that most restaurant staff had limited knowledge of food allergens and their symptoms, and a small proportion had received specific training on food allergies. Moreover, only 14% of restaurants provided allergen information on their menus. Despite these knowledge gaps, most staff exhibited positive attitudes toward managing food allergies. Findings also indicated that factors such as experience, training, and restaurant policies were associated with higher levels of knowledge and more positive attitudes. These results highlight the urgent need for the restaurant sector to implement food allergy measures, including clear policies and comprehensive training, to prevent potentially life-threatening incidents.
Herpesvirus surveillance in stranded striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from Italy with emphasis on neuropathological characterization
Authors: Vargas-Castro Ignacio , Giorda Federica , Mattioda Virginia , Goria Maria , Serracca Laura , Varello Katia , Carta Valerio , Nodari Sabrina , Maniaci Maria Grazia , Dell’Atti Luana , Testori Camilla , Pussini Nicola , Iulini Barbara , Battistini Roberta , Zoppi Simona , Nocera Fabio Di , Lucifora Giuseppe , Fontanesi Elena , Acutis Pierluigi , Casalone Cristina , Grattarola Carla , Peletto Simone
Published: October 2024

Herpesvirus (HV) is widely distributed among cetacean populations, with the highest prevalence reported in the Mediterranean Sea. In this study, a comprehensive analysis was conducted, including epidemiological, phylogenetic, and pathological aspects, with particular emphasis on neuropathology, to better understand the impact of HV in these animals. Our results show a higher presence of HV in males compared to females, with males exhibiting a greater number of positive tissues. Additionally, adults were more frequently affected by HV infection than juveniles, with no infections detected in calves or neonates. The affected species were striped (Stenella coeruleoalba) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). The highest positivity rates were observed in the genital system, cerebrum, and skin tissues. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a higher occurrence of Gammaherpesvirus (GHV) sequences but increased genetic diversity within Alphaherpesvirus (AHV). Key neuropathological features included astro-microgliosis (n = 4) and meningitis with minimal to mild perivascular cuffing (n = 2). The presence of concurrent infections with other pathogens, particularly cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV), underscores the complex nature of infectious diseases in cetaceans. However, the presence of lesions at the Central Nervous System (CNS) with molecular positivity for GHV, excluding the involvement of other potential neurotropic agents, would confirm the potential of this HV subfamily to induce neurological damage. Pathological examination identified lesions in other organs that could potentially be associated with HV, characterized by lymphoid depletion and tissue inflammation. These findings enhance our understanding of HV in odontocetes and highlight the need for ongoing research into the factors driving these infections and their broader implications.
Moving towards a core measures set for patient safety in perioperative care: An e-Delphi consensus study
Authors: Dinis-Teixeira J. P. , Nunes Ana Beatriz , Leite Andreia , Schäfer Willemijn L. A. , Valli Claudia , Martínez-Nicolas Ismael , Seyfulayeva Ayshe , Carvalho Pedro Casaca , Rodríguez Anna , Arnal-Velasco Daniel , Leon Irene , Orrego Carola , Sousa Paulo ,   on behalf of the SAFEST Consortium and the SAFEST Scientific Advisory Group
Published: October 2024

A Core Measures Set (CMS) is an agreed standardized group of measures that should be assessed and reported in research for a specific condition or clinical area. This study undertook the development of a CMS for Patient Safety through a two-round, web-based Delphi consensus approach, in the context of the “Improving quality and patient SAFEty in surgical care through STandardisation and harmonization of perioperative care in Europe” (SAFEST) project—a collaborative, patient-centered and evidence-based European Union-funded project that aims to generate action-oriented evidence in perioperative care. We developed an Initial List of Measures via an umbrella review following the deployment of an e-Delphi method with an inclusive panel of experts to prioritize measures towards a consensualized Final List of Measures. All measures were rigorously assessed for both importance and feasibility. After the two rounds of the e-Delphi consensus method we observed 13 preoperative measures (40.6% of the initial number), 24 intraoperative measures (66.7%), 25 postoperative measures (20.3%) and 23 mixed period measures (41.1%) met consensus criteria for both importance and feasibility. Higher scores were detected in importance ratings compared to feasibility across all groups of measures. Importantly, numeric averages regarding pain-related measures differed in the assessment of patients when compared to that of Healthcare Professionals (HCPs). This work not only informs future SAFEST iterations but also sets a precedent for research into valid, patient-centered, and action-oriented perioperative safety measures.
Designing novel multiepitope mRNA vaccine targeting Hendra virus (HeV): An integrative approach utilizing immunoinformatics, reverse vaccinology, and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Mahdeen Ahmad Abdullah , Hossain Imam , Masum Md. Habib Ullah , Islam Sajedul , Rabbi T. M. Fazla
Published: October 2024

Human and animal health is threatened by Hendra virus (HeV), which has few treatments. This in-silico vaccine design study focuses on HeV G (glycoprotein), F (fusion protein), and M (matrix protein). These proteins were computationally assessed for B and T-cell epitopes after considering HeV strain conservation, immunogenicity, and antigenicity. To improve vaccination immunogenicity, these epitopes were selectively ligated into a multiepitope construct. To improve vaccination longevity and immunological response, adjuvants and linkers were ligated. G, F, and M epitopes were used to create an mRNA HeV vaccine. Cytotoxic, helper, and linear B-lymphocytes’ epitopes are targeted by this vaccine. The population coverage analysis demonstrates that multi-epitope vaccination covers 91.81 percent of CTL and 98.55 percent of HTL epitopes worldwide. GRAVY evaluated the vaccine’s well-characterized physicochemical properties -0.503, indicating solubility and functional stability. Structure analysis showed well-stabilized 2° and 3° structures in the vaccine, with alpha helix, beta sheet, and coil structures (Ramachandran score of 88.5% and Z score of -3.44). There was a strong affinity as shown by docking tests with TLR-4 (central score of -1139.4 KJ/mol) and TLR-2 (center score of -1277.9 KJ/mol). The coupled V-apo, V-TLR2, and V-TLR4 complexes were tested for binding using molecular dynamics simulation where extremely stable complexes were found. The predicted mRNA structures provided significant stability. Codon optimization for Escherichia. coli synthesis allowed the vaccine to attain a GC content of 46.83% and a CAI score of 1.0, which supports its significant expression. Immunological simulations indicated vaccine-induced innate and adaptive immune reactions. Finally, this potential HeV vaccine needs more studies to prove its efficacy and safety.
Have my back as I get back to work—Experiences of stakeholder support in returning to work after sick leave due to chronic pain: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Lundin Åse , Ekman Inger , Andréll Paulin , Lundberg Mari , Wallström Sara
Published: October 2024

Background

Chronic pain (pain > 3 months) is a disabling condition affecting around one fifth of the population. Chronic pain significantly affects a person’s psychological and physical health and often interferes with the ability to work. It is one of the most common reasons for extended sick leave and persons with chronic pain often have difficulties returning to work. Interpreting the experiences of currently available is necessary in order to facilitate a return to working life. Therefore, this study aimed to describe and interpret the meaning of support during the return-to-work process for persons on sick leave due to chronic pain.

Method

A qualitative interview study was conducted with 14 participants (12 women and 2 men) who experienced sick leave due to chronic pain. The participants were recruited through patient organizations focusing on pain or pain-related conditions. Collected data was analyzed using a phenomenological hermeneutical approach.

Results

Have my back as I get back to work was the theme of the analysis, along with six subthemes. Being able to work was important for the participants. However, they often experienced returning to work was a battle for support, dealing with fragmentized backing from the involved stakeholders. Participants with access to collaborative support involving competent care, recognition and the possibility to influence their work felt valuable and capable as persons and workers. Thus, they were provided conditions allowing a successful re-entry into the workplace.

Conclusions

Our findings contribute to an enhanced understanding of the importance of stakeholder support in persons with chronic pain re-entering the workplace after an extended break due to sick leave. Through an inclusive, collaborative and flexible approach involving all stakeholders working towards the same goal, a person with chronic pain can feel supported in developing and cultivating the capabilities necessary to manage life and work.
Pelvic tilt and stiffness of the muscles stabilising the lumbo-pelvic-hip (LPH) complex in tensiomyography examination
Authors: Bibrowicz Karol , Szurmik Tomasz , Kurzeja Piotr , Bibrowicz Bartosz , Ogrodzka-Ciechanowicz Katarzyna
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The objective of the study was to initially validate the hypothesis about the relationship between the pelvic tilt angle in the saggital plane and the functional state of muscles stabilising the lumbo-pelvic-hip (LPH) complex expressed as a change in their stiffness in a tensiomyography examination.

Materials and methods

Forty five women aged 19–30 years took part in an observational (cross-sectional) study. The examination involved measurements using the tensiomyography method (TMG). The stiffness of muscles stabilising the LPH complex expressed as a maximal muscle displacement (Dm variable) was assessed and the relationship between muscle stiffness and the value of the pelvic tilt (PT) in the sagittal plane was determined.

Results

The analysis showed significant differences in the values of medians of the muscle displacement (Dm) values in groups identified in terms of the value of pelvic tilt (Table 1) for Erector Spinae (ES) muscles (p = 0.0012), Gluteus Maximus (GM) muscles (p = 0.0004), Rectus Abdominis (RA) muscles (p = 0.0005), Obliquus abdominis externus (OAE) muscles (p = 0.0002*) and Rectus Femoris (RF) muscles (p = 0.0071). The results of the correlation analysis performed using the Spearman rho correlation coefficient between the value of pelvic tilt and muscle stiffness (Dm) show the following significant relations for ES muscles (p = 0<0.0001), GM muscles (p<0.0001), RA muscles (p<0.0001) and OAE muscles (p<0.0001). However, a clear direction of changes in stiffness in accordance with the description of relations defined as Lower Crossed Syndrome was not confirmed.

Conclusions

A tensiomyographic examination did not show clear relations between the value of pelvic tilt and stiffness of muscles stabilising the lumbar-pelvic-hip complex. The mechanism of Lower Crossed Syndrome (LCS) may be not the only model explaining the relations between musculofascial structures of the hip-lumbar area. The implications of the LCS should not be the only basis for the therapy of disorders resulting from an incorrect position of the pelvis in the sagittal plane.
Identification of risk factors and establishment of prediction models for mortality risk in patients with acute kidney injury: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Li Shengtao , Li Zhanzhan , Li Yanyan
Published: October 2024

This study investigated factors influencing death in patients with Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) and developed models to predict their mortality risk. We analyzed data from 1079 AKI patients admitted to Changsha First Hospital using a retrospective design. Patient information including demographics, medical history, lab results, and treatments were collected. Logistic regression models were built to identify risk factors and predict 90-day and 1-year mortality. The 90-day mortality rate among 1079 AKI patients was 13.8% (149/1079) and the one-year mortality rate was 14.8% (160/1079). For both 90-day and 1-year mortality in patients with AKI, age over 60, anemia, hypotension, organ failure, and an admission Scr level above 682.3 μmol/L were identified as independent risk factors through multivariate logistic regression analysis. Additionally, mechanical ventilation was associated with an increased risk of death at one year. To ensure the generalizability of the models, we employed a robust 5-fold cross-validation technique. Both the 90-day and 1-year mortality models achieved good performance, with area under the curve (AUC) values exceeding 0.8 in the training set. Importantly, the AUC values in the validation set (0.828 for 90-day and 0.796 for 1-year) confirmed that the models’ accuracy holds true for unseen data. Additionally, calibration plots and decision curves supported the models’ usefulness in predicting patient outcomes. The logistic regression models built using these factors effectively predicted 90-day and 1-year mortality risk. These findings can provide valuable insights for clinical risk management in AKI patients.
A novel broad-spectrum antibacterial and anti-malarial Anopheles gambiae Cecropin promotes microbial clearance during pupation
Authors: Barreto Cairé , Cardoso-Jaime Victor , Dimopoulos George
Published: October 2024

Anophelinae mosquitoes are exposed to a variety of microbes including Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria. When infected, mosquitoes mount versatile immune responses, including the production of antimicrobial peptides. Cecropins are one of the most widely distributed families of antimicrobial peptides in insects and all previously studied Anopheles members are playing roles in adult mosquito immunity. We have identified and characterized a novel member of the Anopheles gambiae cecropin family, cecropin D (CecD), that is uniquely expressed and immune-responsive at late larval stages to promote microbial clearance through its broad-spectrum antibacterial activity during larval-pupal developmental transition. Interestingly, Cecropin D also exhibited highly potent activity against Plasmodium falciparum sporozoites, the malaria parasite stage that is transmitted from mosquitoes and infects humans and thereby holds promise as a malaria transmission-blocking agent. Finally, we have defined unequivocal cecropin-specific molecular signatures to systematically organize the diversity of the cecropin family in malaria vectors.
El Colegio de San Antonio: la obra pía de Antonio de Vergas y Carvajal en la Salamanca del siglo XVIII
Authors: Ajenjo López Pablo
Published: October 2024

Durante la Edad Moderna existieron múltiples instituciones de recogida de niños expósitos y huérfanos en todas las ciudades de Europa. Salamanca no fue una excepción. A imitación de otras instituciones del estilo que existieron, el regidor Antonio de Vergas y Carvajal creó una institución de recogida de jóvenes a finales del siglo XVII. Se estudia a continuación el funcionamiento de la institución en la primera mitad del siglo XVIII, cuando el colegio seminario se regula a través de un amplio corpus legal, así como se analiza la vida del fundador, desconocida hasta la fecha, la cotidianidad colegial y las características de los internos a comienzos del siglo ilustrado.