bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective Evaluation of Extubation Failure in Neonates and Infants After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Hanson Amy E. , Herrmann Jeremy L. , Abu-Sultaneh Samer , Murphy Lee D. , Mastropietro Christopher W.
Published: October 2024

Background: Extubation failure and its associated complications are not uncommon after pediatric cardiac surgery, especially in neonates and young infants. We aimed to identify the frequency, etiologies, and clinical characteristics associated with extubation failure after cardiac surgery in neonates and young infants. Methods: We conducted a single center prospective observational study of patients ≤180 days undergoing cardiac surgery between June 2022 and May 2023 with at least one extubation attempt. Patients who failed extubation, defined as reintubation within 72 h of first extubation attempt, were compared with patients extubated successfully using χ2, Fisher exact, or Wilcoxon rank-sum tests as appropriate. Results: We prospectively enrolled 132 patients who met inclusion criteria, of which 11 (8.3%) failed extubation. Median time to reintubation was 25.5 h (range 0.4-55.8). Extubation failures occurring within 12 h (n = 4) were attributed to upper airway obstruction or apnea, whereas extubation failures occurring between 12 and 72 h (n = 7) were more likely to be due to intrinsic lung disease or cardiac dysfunction. Underlying genetic anomalies, greater weight relative to baseline at extubation, or receiving positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) > 5 cmH2O at extubation were significantly associated with extubation failure. Conclusions: In this study of neonates and young infants recovering from cardiac surgery, etiologies of early versus later extubation failure involved different pathophysiology. We also identified weight relative to baseline and PEEP at extubation as possible modifiable targets for future investigations of extubation failure in this patient population.
Impact of Virtual Navigation on the Education and Access of Patients with Cancer: A National Mixed Methods Investigation
Authors: Haag Susan , Schaffer Joyce
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Despite growing evidence of efficacy, oncology patient navigation is not ubiquitously offered. Navigation may reduce barriers to cancer care, yet geographic location may limit patient access. To overcome geographical barriers and increase patient education in oncology, our medical center developed a virtual navigation program.

Objective

To examine the efficacy of the Virtual Navigation Program designed to increase patient access and education across local and national contexts

Methods

In this mixed-methods study, a total of 105 individuals completed an online survey administered nationally to oncology patients who used the navigation program. Clinical and demographic data were collected. Nonparametric tests were used for group comparisons (Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks test).

Results

Virtual navigation increased access as the majority of patients utilized the Virtual Navigation Program beyond the local area; 42% of patients were local; 58% were patients located across the US. 55 (52%) were female; 25% were non-White. Pancreatic cancer was the largest tumor type: 51 (49%). Patients agreed the virtual cancer education helped them make critical health choices (mean 4.89 SD = 84); understand their diagnosis (mean 4.44 SD = .77); were able to make informed decisions (mean 4.43 SD = .83), and empowered to manage their cancer care (mean 4.58 SD = .82). Post navigation, the user experience survey revealed significant increases in a subset of patients’ cancer knowledge ( P < 0.001), access to quality cancer education ( P = 0.045), decision-making in cancer care (P < 0.05), and coordinated cancer care ( P = 0.03).

Conclusion

This study explores a unique role that virtual navigation may play in helping accommodate healthcare for many cancer patients in underserved areas. The use of innovative aspects of research and education in virtual navigation may be successful in promoting patient empowerment in the cancer continuum. Internet-strategies are needed to inform sustainable patient navigation in low-resource contexts.
Clinical, developmental and serotonemia phenotyping of a sample of 70 Italian patients with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome
Authors: Asta Lisa , Ricciardello Arianna , Cucinotta Francesca , Turriziani Laura , Boncoddo Maria , Bellomo Fabiana , Angelini Jessica , Gnazzo Martina , Scandolo Giulia , Pisanò Giulia , Pelagatti Francesco , Chehbani Fethia , Camia Michela , Persico Antonio M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is caused by monoallelic loss or inactivation at the SHANK3 gene, located in human chr 22q13.33, and is often associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Objectives

To assess the clinical and developmental phenotype in a novel sample of PMS patients, including for the first time auxometric trajectories and serotonin blood levels.

Methods

70 Italian PMS patients were clinically characterized by parental report, direct medical observation, and a thorough medical and psychodiagnostic protocol. Serotonin levels were measured in platelet-rich plasma by HPLC.

Results

Our sample includes 59 (84.3%) cases with chr. 22q13 terminal deletion, 5 (7.1%) disruptive SHANK3 mutations, and 6 (8.6%) ring chromosome 22. Intellectual disability was present in 69 (98.6%) cases, motor coordination disorder in 65 (92.9%), ASD in 20 (28.6%), and lifetime bipolar disorder in 12 (17.1%). Prenatal and postnatal complications were frequent (22.9%-48.6%). Expressive and receptive language were absent in 49 (70.0%) and 19 (27.1%) cases, respectively. Decreased pain sensitivity was reported in 56 (80.0%), hyperactivity in 49 (80.3%), abnormal sleep in 45 (64.3%), congenital dysmorphisms in 35 (58.3%), chronic stool abnormalities and especially constipation in 29 (41.4%). Parents reported noticing behavioral abnormalities during early childhood immediately after an infective episode in 34 (48.6%) patients. Brain MRI anomalies were observed in 53 (79.1%), EEG abnormalities in 16 (23.5%), kidney and upper urinary tract malformations in 18 (28.1%). Two novel phenotypes emerged: (a) a subgroup of 12/44 (27.3%) PMS patients displays smaller head size at enrollment (mean age 11.8 yrs) compared to their first year of neonatal life, documenting a deceleration of head growth (p < 0.001); (b) serotonin blood levels are significantly lower in 21 PMS patients compared to their 21 unaffected siblings (P < 0.05), and to 432 idiopathic ASD cases (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

We replicate and extend the description of many phenotypic characteristics present in PMS, and report two novel features: (1) growth trajectories are variable and head growth appears to slow down during childhood in some PMS patients; (2) serotonin blood levels are decreased in PMS, and not increased as frequently occurs in ASD. Further investigations of these novel features are under way.
X- vs. Y-chromosome influences on human behavior: a deep phenotypic comparison of psychopathology in XXY and XYY syndromes
Authors: Schaffer Lukas , Rau Srishti , Larsen Isabella G. , Clasen Liv , Warling Allysa , Whitman Ethan T. , Nadig Ajay , McDermott Cassidy , Xenophontos Anastasia , Wilson Kathleen , Blumenthal Jonathan , Torres Erin , Raznahan Armin
Published: October 2024

Background

Do different genetic disorders impart different psychiatric risk profiles? This question has major implications for biological and translational aspects of psychiatry, but has been difficult to tackle given limited access to shared batteries of fine-grained clinical data across genetic disorders.

Methods

Using a new suite of generalizable analytic approaches, we examine gold-standard diagnostic ratings, scores on 66 dimensional measures of psychopathology, and measures of cognition and functioning in two different sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs)—Klinefelter (XXY/KS) and XYY syndrome (n = 102 and 64 vs. n = 74 and 60 matched XY controls, total n = 300). We focus on SCAs for their high collective prevalence, informativeness regarding differential X- vs. Y-chromosome effects, and potential relevance for normative sex differences.

Results

We show that XXY/KS elevates rates for most psychiatric diagnoses as previously reported for XYY, but disproportionately so for anxiety disorders. Fine-mapping across all 66 traits provides a detailed profile of psychopathology in XXY/KS which is strongly correlated with that of XYY (r = .75 across traits) and robust to ascertainment biases, but reveals: (i) a greater penetrance of XYY than KS/XXY for most traits except mood/anxiety problems, and (ii) a disproportionate impact of XYY vs. XXY/KS on social problems. XXY/KS and XYY showed a similar coupling of psychopathology with adaptive function and caregiver strain, but not IQ.

Conclusions

This work provides new tools for deep-phenotypic comparisons of genetic disorders in psychiatry and uses these to detail unique and shared effects of the X- and Y-chromosome on human behavior.
Whole-genome sequencing of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae isolated from a tertiary care hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia
Authors: Krisna Made Ananda , Alimsardjono Lindawati , Salsabila Korrie , Vermasari Naritha , Daningrat Wa Ode Dwi , Kuntaman Kuntaman , Harrison Odile Barbara , Maiden Martin Christopher James , Safari Dodi
Published: October 2024

Background

Haemophilus influenzae causes life-threatening invasive diseases such as septicaemia and meningitis. Reports on circulating H. influenzae causing invasive disease in lower-middle income settings, including Indonesia, are lacking. This study describes the serotype distributions and whole-genome sequence (WGS) data of H. influenzae isolated from hospitalized patients at Soetomo Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia.

Methods

H. influenzae isolates were isolated from blood and pleural fluid specimens and identified using culture-based and molecular methods, followed by serotyping and WGS using RT‒PCR and Illumina MiSeq, respectively. Sequencing reads were assembled, and further analyses were undertaken to determine the genomic content and reconstruct the phylogeny. A second dataset consisting of publicly available H. influenzae genomes was curated to conduct phylogenetic analyses of isolates in this study in the context of globally circulating isolates.

Results

Ten H. influenzae isolates from hospitalized patients were collected, and septicaemia was the most common diagnosis (n=8). RT‒PCR and WGS were performed to determine whether all the isolates were nontypeable H. influenzae (NTHi). There were four newly identified STs distributed across the two main clusters. A total of 91 out of 126 virulence factor (VF)-related genes in Haemophilus sp. were detected in at least one isolate. Further evaluation incorporating a global collection of H. influenzae genomes confirmed the diverse population structure of NTHi in this study.

Conclusion

This study showed that all H. influenzae recovered from invasive disease patients were nonvaccine-preventable NTHi isolates. The inclusion of WGS revealed four novel STs and the possession of key VF-associated genes.
Burden of disease and cost of illness of infants less than 6 months of age hospitalised with respiratory syncytial virus in Denmark – a 10-year national register-based study
Authors: von Linstow Marie-Louise , Rudolfsen Jan Håkon , Olsen Jens , Skovdal Mette , Staerke Nina Breinholt
Published: October 2024

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of hospitalisation in infants aged ≤ 6 months in Western countries. Nearly 1,500 infants under six months of age are hospitalised with RSV annually in Denmark. This nationwide study describes the healthcare resource utilisation and costs related to RSV hospitalisation in this vulnerable age group.

Methods

RSV cases were identified in the Danish National Patient Register. Infants were included if they at the age of 0–5 months had a (1) respiratory related hospital admission (duration > 12 h), (2) within 10 days of a positive RSV test, (3) between January 2013 and December 2022. Each case was matched with five individuals never diagnosed with RSV on age, sex, region of residence, birth (pre/full term), number of siblings < 7 years old, and parents’ education. An episode of RSV was defined as the seven days prior to hospitalisation to 30 days after initial hospitalisation. Study outcomes included contacts with hospital and primary care, and total healthcare costs defined as the sum cost of hospital care, primary care, and prescription medicine. Cost and contacts attributable to RSV was calculated in a diff-in-diff framework, as the difference between case and reference group.

Results

The study population comprised of 8,428 RSV cases and 41,725 reference individuals. Cases generated 1.58 (p < 0.001) attributable inpatient contacts, 0.84 (p < 0.001) outpatient contacts, and 1.19 (p < 0.001) primary care contacts during their RSV episode. An additional 0.6 (p < 0.001) inpatient, 1.08 (p < 0.001) outpatient and 2.42 (p < 0.001) primary care contacts were attributed to RSV in the year following the RSV episode. Total cost of an RSV episode was EUR 2,997 (p < 0.001) with an additional EUR 1,428 (p < 0.001) in the following year.

Conclusion

RSV hospitalisations of infants are associated with substantial healthcare utilisation and costs. The same pattern was observed in the year following the RSV episode. If the new RSV prevention options are introduced nationwide, the overall burden of RSV is expected to be substantially reduced in the future.
Revitalizing grand rounds in the time of COVID
Authors: Santhosh Lekshmi , Rosenstein Lee Anne , Wachter Robert M.
Published: October 2024

COVID presented an opportunity to revolutionize the traditional format of Medical Grand Rounds (MGR). In this Commentary, we explore the educational ramifications of shifting MGR virtually with a focus on COVID-related content and its long-term sustainability. This transformation offers an inclusive interdisciplinary approach to sustain learner interest and improve education.
Reducing low-value imaging - stakeholders’ assessment of an intervention to improve imaging services
Authors: Kjelle Elin , Brandsæter Ingrid Øfsti , Andersen Eivind Richter , Hofmann Bjørn Morten
Published: October 2024

Background

An intervention to reduce low-value magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was designed and implemented in private imaging centres in Norway in October 2022. The intervention used return letters for poor referrals of MRI of the lower back, brain and knee at private imaging centres in Norway. The study aimed to investigate key stakeholders’ experiences and assessment of the intervention and the specific research questions were:

• How many return letters were sent during the study period?

• What were the medical directors’ and managers’ experiences with and reflection on success factors for the intervention implementation and using return letters?

Methods

The number of return letters sent was collected directly from Norway’s two main private imaging providers. Two semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with the medical directors of the imaging providers, as well as two focus group interviews with nine managers from the various private imaging centres operated by the two imaging providers.

Results

In total, 1,182 return letters were sent for patients undergoing one of the three types of MRI examinations, and the number of return letters was highest at the beginning of the intervention. The interview analysis resulted in five categories: general experience, anchoring, organisation, return letter procedure and outcome. Sufficient information, anchoring and support were identified as crucial success factors.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into the practical and crucial details of implementing interventions to reduce low-value imaging. The intervention was generally well received, and the high initial number of return letters decreased rapidly over the course of the study. Several key success factors were identified.
Searching for effective strategies to reach boys and young men; a mixed-methods study protocol for youth clinics in Sweden
Authors: Baroudi Mazen
Published: October 2024

Background

Efforts to engage boys and young men in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services in Sweden remain limited, with only a small proportion accessing youth clinics, the primary providers of such services. Existing initiatives are often ad-hoc and lack institutionalization within public policy and practice. This study aims to identify feasible and effective interventions to improve boys’ and young men’s access to youth clinics in Sweden.

Methods

Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study investigates interventions, strategies, and factors influencing access to SRH services for boys and young men in Sweden. Firstly, a systematic literature review will be conducted to identify evaluated interventions globally. Secondly, strategies to attracts boys and young men in youth clinics in Sweden will be mapped. Thirdly, case studies in two regions in Sweden – chosen for their demographic and geographic diversity – will be conducted interviewing healthcare providers, managers, policymakers, and boys and young men. Lastly, Q-methodology will be used to rank all identified strategies. Healthcare providers and managers will rank these strategies based on their perceived effectiveness and feasibility while boys and young men will rank the interventions based on perceived effectiveness.

Discussion

The added value of this project is generating robust evidence regarding boys and young men’s involvement in SRH services, especially their access to youth clinics. This is crucial for (1) developing gender-sensitive services and service delivery models that effectively promote young men’s SRH; (2) informing future young men’s health policies ensuring that their unique SRH concerns are addressed; and (3) improving young men’s participation in SRH provision. This will ultimately foster a culture of shared responsibilities and advance gender equality.
Safety and pharmacokinetic properties of a new formulation of parenteral artesunate in healthy Thai volunteers
Authors: Tarning Joel , Hanboonkunupakarn Borimas , Hoglund Richard M. , Chotivanich Kesinee , Mukaka Mavuto , Pukrittayakamee Sasithon , Day Nicholas P. J. , White Nicholas J. , Dondorp Arjen M. , Jittamala Podjanee
Published: October 2024

Background

Parenteral artesunate is the first-line therapy for severe malaria. Artesunate, in its current formulation, must be prepared immediately before administration by first dissolving in sodium bicarbonate solution and then diluting in saline. A novel solvent for rapid and stable single step reconstitution of artesunate was recently developed showing improved solubility and stability. This study aimed to compare the safety and pharmacokinetic properties of the currently available and newly developed parenteral formulation of artesunate in healthy Thai volunteers.

Methods

This was an open-label, randomized, 4 periods, 4-treatments, 24-sequence, single-dose, cross-over study in 72 male and female healthy Thai volunteers. Frequent pharmacokinetic samples were collected in all volunteers at each dose occasion. Observed concentration–time profiles were analysed with a non-compartmental approach followed by a bioequivalence evaluation.

Results

Both intramuscular and intravenous administrations of the new parenteral formulation of artesunate were safe and well-tolerated, with no additional safety signals compared to the currently used formulation. The pharmacokinetic properties of artesunate and its active metabolite, dihydroartemisinin, were well-characterized, and showed rapid conversion of artesunate into dihydroartemisinin. Intramuscular administration of the newly formulated artesunate resulted in almost complete bioavailability of dihydroartemisinin. The pharmacokinetic properties were similar between the old and new formulation.

Conclusions

The new and more easily prepared formulation of artesunate was safe and well-tolerated, with similar pharmacokinetic properties compared to the currently used formulation. Dihydroartemisinin, the active metabolite responsible for the majority of the anti-malarial effect, showed equivalent exposure after both intravenous and intramuscular administration of artesunate, suggesting that both routes of administration should generate comparable therapeutic effects.

Trial registration: The study was registered to clinicaltrials.gov (#TCTR20170907002).
Models for malaria control optimization—a systematic review
Authors: Ngwafor Randolph , Pokharel Sunil , Aguas Ricardo , White Lisa , Shretta Rima
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite advances made in curbing the global malaria burden since the 2000s, progress has stalled, in part due to a plateauing of the financing available to implement needed interventions. In 2020, approximately 3.3 billion USD was invested globally for malaria interventions, falling short of the targeted 6.8 billion USD set by the GTS, increasing the financial gap between desirable and actual investment. Models for malaria control optimization are used to disentangle the most efficient interventions or packages of interventions for inherently constrained budgets. This systematic review aimed to identify and characterise models for malaria control optimization for resource allocation in limited resource settings and assess their strengths and limitations.

Methods

Following the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews and Preferred reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, a comprehensive search across PubMed and Embase databases was performed of peer-reviewed literature published from inception until June 2024. The following keywords were used: optimization model; malaria; control interventions; elimination interventions. Editorials, commentaries, opinion papers, conference abstracts, media reports, letters, bulletins, pre-prints, grey literature, non-English language studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses were excluded from the search.

Results

The search yielded 2950 records, of which 15 met the inclusion criteria. The studies were carried out mainly in countries in Africa (53.3%), such as Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and countries in Asia (26.7%), such as Thailand and Myanmar. The most used interventions for analyses were insecticide-treated bed nets (93.3%), IRS (80.0%), Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (33.3%) and Case management (33.3%). The methods used for estimating health benefits were compartmental models (40.0%), individual-based models (40.0%), static models (13.0%) and linear regression model (7%). Data used in the analysis were validated country-specific data (60.0%) or non-country-specific data (40.0%) and were analysed at national only (40.0%), national and subnational levels (46.7%), or subnational only levels (13.3%).

Conclusion

This review identified available optimization models for malaria resource allocation. The findings highlighted the need for country-specific analysis for malaria control optimization, the use of country-specific epidemiological and cost data in performing modelling analyses, performing cost sensitivity analyses and defining the perspective for the analysis, with an emphasis on subnational tailoring for data collection and analysis for more accurate and good quality results. It is critical that the future modelling efforts account for fairness and target at risk malaria populations that are hard-to-reach to maximize impact.

Trial registration: PROSPERO Registration number: CRD42023436966
Proteasome inhibition suppresses the induction of lipocalin-2 upon systemic lipopolysaccharide challenge in mice
Authors: Bae Jin-Sil , Heo Ji-Eun , Ryu Kwon-Yul
Published: October 2024

Lipocalin-2 (Lcn2), a protein secreted by immune-activated cells, including reactive astrocytes, is detrimental to the brain and induces neurodegeneration. We previously showed that Lcn2 levels are reduced in primary mouse astrocytes after treatment with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (BTZ). However, it remains unknown whether a decrease in Lcn2 levels after BTZ treatment can also be observed in vivo and whether it reduces neurotoxicity during lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced systemic inflammation in vivo. To answer these questions, we performed LPS challenge experiments by intraperitoneal injection in mice and found that Lcn2 levels were significantly increased in the brain, recapitulating in vitro experiments using astrocytes. Co-administration of LPS and BTZ reduced the Lcn2 levels compared to the levels in LPS-treated controls. Upon LPS challenge, the expression levels of glial marker genes were upregulated in the mouse brain. Of note, this upregulation was hampered by the co-administration of BTZ. Taken together, our results suggested that BTZ can reduce LPS-induced Lcn2 levels and may alleviate LPS-induced neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity in mice.
Utilising primary care electronic health records to deliver the ALABAMA randomised controlled trial of penicillin allergy assessment
Authors: Ahmed Shadia , Fielding Joanne , Porter Catherine E. , Armitage Kelsey F. , Wanat Marta , Bates Chris , Engonidou Lazarina , West Robert M. , Yu Ly-Mee , Galal Ushma , Howard Philip , Butler Christopher C. , Savic Sinisa , Boards Jenny , Tonkin-Crine Sarah , Parry John , Pavitt Sue A. , Sandoe Jonathan T. ,   on behalf of ALABAMA research team
Published: October 2024

Background

Use of electronic health records (EHR) to provide real-world data for research is established, but using EHR to deliver randomised controlled trials (RCTs) more efficiently is less developed. The Allergy AntiBiotics And Microbial resistAnce (ALABAMA) RCT evaluated a penicillin allergy assessment pathway versus usual clinical care in a UK primary care setting. The aim of this paper is to describe how EHRs were used to facilitate efficient delivery of a large-scale randomised trial of a complex intervention embracing efficient participant identification, supporting minimising GP workload, providing accurate post-intervention EHR updates of allergy status, and facilitating participant follow up and outcome data collection. The generalisability of the EHR approach and health economic implications of EHR in clinical trials will be reported in the main ALABAMA trial cost-effectiveness analysis.

Methods

A descriptive account of the adaptation of functionality within SystmOne used to deliver/facilitate multiple trial processes from participant identification to outcome data collection.

Results

An ALABAMA organisation group within SystmOne was established which allowed sharing of trial functions/materials developed centrally by the research team. The ‘ALABAMA unit’ within SystmOne was also created and provided a secure efficient environment to access participants’ EHR data. Processes of referring consented participants, allocating them to a trial arm, and assigning specific functions to the intervention arm were developed by adapting tools such as templates, reports, and protocols which were already available in SystmOne as well as pathways to facilitate allergy de-labelling processes and data retrieval for trial outcome analysis.

Conclusions

ALABAMA is one of the first RCTs to utilise SystmOne EHR functionality and data across the RCT delivery, demonstrating feasibility and applicability to other primary care RCTs.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04108637, registered 05/03/2019. ISRCTN: ISRCTN20579216.
Host diversity of Aedes albopictus in relation to invasion history: a meta-analysis of blood-feeding studies
Authors: Garamszegi László Zsolt
Published: October 2024

Background

The invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus is a major concern for human and animal health given its high potential to spread over large geographical distances, adapt to various habitats and food sources, and act as a vector for pathogens. It is crucial to understand how this species establishes ecological relationships at different locations, as it determines its role in transmission of diseases.

Methods

Based on published blood meal surveys, a meta-analysis was performed to investigate how host diversity changes along the process of invasion at a large scale. For 48 independent localities, the Shannon diversity index was calculated and was then assessed against several moderator variables describing invasion status, habitat type, methodology, survey year and the year of introduction for invasive populations.

Results

Diet diversity was higher in the invasive than in the native populations when the strong habitat effects were held constant. Furthermore, the year of introduction also had a significant role, as invasive populations that had been established earlier had wider diet diversity than more recent populations.

Conclusions

Invasive Ae. albopictus has considerable ecological flexibility. The species’ ability to adapt to various food sources goes hand in hand with its successful worldwide dispersion, which has strong implications for its role in pathogen transmission.

Graphical Abstract
Spatio-temporal distribution and international context of bovine viral diarrhoea virus genetic diversity in France
Authors: Lescoat Claire , Perrotte Delphine , Barry Séverine , Oden Élise , Herbet Valentin , Beaunée Gaël , Tabouret Marc , Benoit Fabienne , Pitel Pierre-Hugues , Duquesne Véronique , Bailly Xavier , Thézé Julien , Kouokam Guy
Published: October 2024

Bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) is one of the most economically damaging livestock enzootic diseases in the world. BVD aetiological agents are three pestiviruses (BVDV-1, -2 and HoBi-like pestivirus), which exhibit high genetic diversity and complex transmission cycles. This considerably hampers the management of the disease, which is why eradication plans have been implemented in several countries. In France, a national plan has been in place since 2019. Our understanding of its impact on the distribution of BVDV genotypes is limited by the availability of French genetic data. Here, we conducted a molecular epidemiology study to refine our knowledge of BVDV genetic diversity in France, characterise its international relationships, and analyse national spatio-temporal genotypic distribution. We collated 1037 BVDV-positive samples throughout France between 2011 and 2023, with a greater sampling effort in two major cattle production areas. We developed a high-throughput sequencing protocol which we used to complete the 5’UTR genotyping of this collection. We show that two main BVDV-1 genotypes, 1e and 1b, account for 88% of genotyped sequences. We also identified seven other BVDV-1 genotypes occurring at low frequencies and three BVDV-2 samples (genotype 2c). Phylogenetic analyses indicate different worldwide distribution patterns between the two main BVDV-1 genotypes. Their relative frequencies present no major changes in France since the 1990s and few variations at the national scale. We also found some degree of local spatial structuring in western France. Overall, our results demonstrate the potential of large-scale sequence-based surveillance to monitor changes in the epidemiological situation of enzootic diseases.
Stem CH4 emissions from the reclaimed forests: magnitude, drivers, and contribution
Authors: Ge Mengyu , Tan Min , Liu Yang
Published: October 2024

Background

Trees in natural forests are a major contributor to atmospheric methane (CH4), yet these emissions have never been investigated in reclaimed forests. Our study aimed to assess the magnitude, seasonality, drivers, and contributions of tree CH4 emissions to ecosystem CH4 flux in the reclaimed forests. We measured CH4 emissions from different emission pathways, including the stems of trees (Populus euramericana, Metasequoia glyptostroboides, and Camphora officinarum), shoots of herbs (Carex breviculmis and Carex dispalata), and soils in the two reclaimed forests with reclamation periods of 12 and 5 years. We identified factors controlling seasonal tree CH4 emissions and measured tree morphological variables (diameter at breast height, wood density, and lenticel density) to determine species differences in emissions.

Results

CH4 emissions from trees in the 12-year-old reclaimed forest were significantly higher than those in the 5-year-old forest. Seasonal variations in tree CH4 emissions were primarily driven by growth stage and soil parameters, including soil CH4 flux, temperature, and moisture.

Conclusion

In the reclaimed forests, tree-mediated CH4 emissions could be an important contributor to ecosystem CH4 flux, with contributions varying by season. As these forests mature and become ecologically restored, they may significantly impact regional and global CH4 emissions.
Factors Influencing Measurement of Dynamic Elastic Modulus from Disk-Shaped Concrete Specimen
Authors: Kim Min Suk , Son Jeong Jin , Chung Chul-Woo , Lee Chang Joon
Published: October 2024

The decrease in dynamic elastic modulus is a primary indicator of quantitative damage in concrete. To quantitatively assess depth-by-depth damage within a concrete structure, cylindrical specimens obtained through coring can be cut into disk specimens to measure the dynamic elastic modulus of concrete at each depth. To minimize external damage during coring, it is essential to extract cylinders with the smallest possible diameter. In addition, for higher resolution in depth-based damage assessment, creating disk specimens with the smallest possible thickness is necessary. However, there is no information available in the literature on experimental limitation of smallest possible diameter and thickness for dynamic elastic modulus of disk-shaped specimens. This study evaluated whether the dynamic modulus measured from various sizes of concrete disk specimens provided sufficient reliability compared to reference values obtained from cylinders. Moreover, the study examined how the presence of coarse aggregate and variation in the water–cement ratio significantly influenced the dynamic modulus measurement. In addition, test results from impulse excitation technique (IET) and impact resonance (IR) were compared to find a more reliable test method for dynamic elastic modulus of disk specimen. The experimental findings revealed that as the thickness-to-radius ratio of the disk specimens decreased, measured data variation increased. Mortar specimens without coarse aggregates showed less variability compared to concrete specimens, and the variation in dynamic modulus measured by IR was lower than that measured by IET.
Deletion of TP signaling in macrophages delays liver repair following APAP-induced liver injury by reducing accumulation of reparative macrophage and production of HGF
Authors: Tanabe Mina , Hosono Kanako , Yamashita Atsushi , Ito Yoshiya , Majima Masataka , Narumiya Shuh , Kusano Chika , Amano Hideki
Published: October 2024

Background

Acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury is the most common cause of acute liver failure. Macrophages are key players in liver restoration following APAP-induced liver injury. Thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and its receptor, thromboxane prostanoid (TP) receptor, have been shown to be involved in tissue repair. However, whether TP signaling plays a role in liver repair after APAP hepatotoxicity by affecting macrophage function remains unclear.

Methods

Male TP knockout (TP−/−) and C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) mice were treated with APAP (300 mg/kg). In addition, macrophage-specific TP-knockout (TP△mac) and control WT mice were treated with APAP. We explored changes in liver inflammation, liver repair, and macrophage accumulation in mice treated with APAP.

Results

Compared with WT mice, TP−/− mice showed aggravated liver injury as indicated by increased levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) and necrotic area as well as delayed liver repair as indicated by decreased expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Macrophage deletion exacerbated APAP-induced liver injury and impaired liver repair. Transplantation of TP-deficient bone marrow (BM) cells to WT or TP−/− mice aggravated APAP hepatotoxicity with suppressed accumulation of macrophages, while transplantation of WT-BM cells to WT or TP−/− mice attenuated APAP-induced liver injury with accumulation of macrophages in the injured regions. Macrophage-specific TP−/− mice exacerbated liver injury and delayed liver repair, which was associated with increased pro-inflammatory macrophages and decreased reparative macrophages and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) expression. In vitro, TP signaling facilitated macrophage polarization to a reparative phenotype. Transfer of cultured BM-derived macrophages from control mice to macrophage-specific TP−/− mice attenuated APAP-induced liver injury and promoted liver repair. HGF treatment mitigated APAP-induced inflammation and promoted liver repair after APAP-induced liver injury.

Conclusions

Deletion of TP signaling in macrophages delays liver repair following APAP-induced liver injury, which is associated with reduced accumulation of reparative macrophages and the hepatotrophic factor HGF. Specific activation of TP signaling in macrophages may be a potential therapeutic target for liver repair and regeneration after APAP hepatotoxicity.
Predictors of the survival for platinum-refractory head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by using contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.
Authors: Lu Hsueh-Ju , Shen Chao-Yu , Chiu Yu-Wei , Peng Chih-Yu , Tseng Hsien-Chun , Hsin Chung-Han , Chuang Chun-Yi , Chen Chun-Chia , Wu Ming-Fang , Huang Wei-Shiou , Shen Wei-Chih
Published: October 2024

6038

Background:
Platinum-refractory head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) was a poor prognosis. Under the treatment of immune checkpoint therapy, overall survival (OS) was still only 7.7 months. Moreover, the prognostic factors were unclear.
Methods:
For enrolled platinum-refractory HNSCC patients, the presented images of the axial, coronal, and sagittal planes from T1-Weighted Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (T1 CE MRI) were independently reviewed by two physicians. First, the most representative characteristics of the recurrent tumor on the three planes were manually identified, and the intersection coordinate was calculated as a circle center by computerized methods. Then, the center delineated a region of interest (ROI) with a radius of 25 pixels on each representative slice and excluded the air areas. Descriptive features and four groups of texture features (Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix [GLCM], Gray Level Run Length Matrix [GLRLM], Gray Level Size Zone Matrix [GLSZM], and Neighbouring Gray Tone Difference Matrix [NGTDM]) were derived from the ROI to depict MRI intensities' distribution and heterogeneity.
Results:
A total of 30 patients were retrospectively enrolled, including immune checkpoint therapy (N = 19) and cetuximab-based chemotherapy (N = 11) as front-line therapy. Median OS was 7.0 months with 17 death events during follow-up. The area size of ROI was not significantly associated with the death events. However, High Gray-level Run Emphasis (HGRE) and Short-Run High Gray-level Emphasis (SRHGE) of GLRLM as well as High Gray-level Zone Emphasis (HGZE) and Short-Zone High Gray-level Emphasis (SZHGE) of GLSZM were significant to predict the event of death. The area under the curve (AUC) of HGRE, SRHGE, HGZE, and SZHGE were 0.747 (P = 0.023), 0.842 (P = 0.002), 0.819 (P = 0.003), and 0.833 (P = 0.002) at discretization levels of 16, respectively. These features also significantly differed OS of platinum-refractory HNSCC (Table).
Conclusions:
Four texture features of GLRLM and GLSZM depicted the fragmentation of extracellular volume of the recurrent tumor on T1 CE MRI and significantly correlated with the outcomes of platinum-refractory HNSCC. However, future warranted studies were needed.

1-year survival
Hazard ratio (95% CI)

High Gray-level Run Emphasis (HGRE)
54.5% vs. 9.7%
2.218(0.629-7.826)

Short-Run High Gray-level Emphasis (SHRGE)
65.9% vs. 0.0%
4.254(1.213-14.915)

High Gray-level Zone Emphasis (HGZE)
75.0% vs. 0.0%
8.741(1.134-67.397)

Short-Zone High Gray-level Emphasis (SZHGE)
100.0% vs. 0.0%
45.726(0.714-2927.085)
Influence of titanium nanoparticles on cytotoxicity and inflammatory cytokines expression in gingival fibroblasts - An in vitro study
Authors: S Sai Sreeja , Bhandary Rahul , Ramesh Amitha , Thomas Biju , Shetty Veena , Venugopalan Geethu , Putta Uday Simha , Bora Bhaskarya Bhaskar , Shetty Jayaprakasha , Basavarajappa Mohana Kumar
Published: October 2024

Background Despite the success of titanium (Ti) implants in dental rehabilitation, emerging evidence implicates the release of titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) from the implant surface as a potential contributor to the initiation of the pathogenic process leading to peri-implantitis and ultimately failure of the implants. However, a comprehensive investigation to elucidate the dose-dependent effects of TiO2NPs on cytotoxicity and inflammatory responses is lacking. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of TiO2NPs on the cytotoxicity and inflammatory cytokine expression in Human Gingival Fibroblasts (HGFs). Methods HGFs were isolated from gingival tissue samples obtained from periodontally and systemically healthy subjects. Ti standard solution for ICP was diluted to create concentrations of (0.001 ppm, 0.01 ppm, 0.1 ppm, 1 ppm, 10 ppm, and 100 ppm) for cell culture media containing titanium. HGFs were then cultured in these varying concentrations for specific time periods (days 1, 3, 5, and 7) to assess cell viability. A cytotoxicity assay was performed to determine the levels and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, IL-12, TGF-β) using qRT-PCR and ELISA techniques. Results Our findings demonstrate a concentration and duration-dependent decrease in HGF viability upon exposure to titanium nanoparticles. Notably, a 50% reduction in cell viability was observed at the highest concentration (100 ppm). qRT-PCR analysis revealed a significant upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-1β and IL-6, in HGFs exposed to titanium. Interestingly, the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, IL-12, and TGF-β) remained comparable or even equivalent compared to controls across different titanium concentrations. Conclusions The study revealed a concentration and duration-dependent influence on HGF viability and cytokine profile, suggesting potential cytotoxicity and modulation of the inflammatory response mediated by TiO2NPs. Further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and their implications for dental implant biocompatibility.
Case Report: Hymenolepis diminuta in an asymptomatic Ecuadorian child.
Authors: Rivero de Rodriguez Zulbey , Ponce Ader , Vera Anthony , Bracho Angela , Murillo Anita
Published: October 2024

Background The cestode Hymenolepis diminuta is a cosmopolitan parasite, which in the adult stage is usually found in the small intestine of rats and accidentally in humans. Case report We describe the finding of eggs of this parasite in an asymptomatic 3-year-old child. The child had extremely high IgE values of 1,376 IU/ml. After receiving treatment with Albendazole suspension 400mg/20mL, on the 10th day post-treatment, he showed no H. diminuta eggs in his fecal matter Conclusions Detailed morphological review of Hymenolepis nana-like eggs is recommended to distinguish them from H. diminuta eggs.
A case of worsening condition of armed forces of ukraine fighter after treatment for chronic non-atrophic gastritis excernsation
Authors: Avramenko A. , Magdenko A. , Dymo V.
Published: October 2024

A pathogenetic explanation was analyzed and given for the case of deterioration in the condition of a Ukrainian Armed Forces fighter after treatment for an exacerbation of his chronic non-atrophic gastritis. It was found that the treatment was carried out without a complete preliminary examination of the patient and without taking into account the interaction of drugs that were used in the treatment regimen and their effect on Helicobacter pylori infection, which was the reason for the sharp deterioration in the fighter’s condition.
Physical activity, screening cancer, and savings rate as indicators of health responsibility
Authors: Rogalska Anna
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The health of individuals can change gradually over time as a result of the choices they make.
Aim: The study aimed to examine indicators such as physical activity levels, screening participation, and household savings in the context of their role as potential measures of individual health responsibility. The second aim was to identify cognitive barriers and motivations influencing physical activity, breast and cervical cancer screening participation, and money-saving habits.
Material and methods: The analysis used available data on physical activity, the screening level (for breast and cervical cancer), and household savings rates. Then, the data for Poland were presented against the background of available averages for the European Union. The data came from Eurostat, Eurobarometer - the official survey instrument used by the European Parliament.
Results: According to Eurobarometer data, 65% of respondents in Poland have never been physically active in 2022 (vs in the European Union 45%). In 2022, the percentage of women who were screened for cervical cancer in Poland was 34% of women. And the cervical cancer program (cytology) was used by 10.9% of people. In 2022, the household saving rate was 12.7 % in the EU, and in Poland -2.89%, where the lowest rate occurred in Greece and the highest in Germany (Eurostat data).
Conclusion: The low level of physical activity and participation in screening tests in Poland, compared to EU countries, highlights the need to intensify public health promotion activities. Additionally, promoting saving as an important element of health responsibility can not only improve the financial well-being of citizens but also have a positive impact on their mental health.
Una aproximación a las cláusulas abusivas
Authors: Rodríguez Yong Camilo Andrés
Published: October 2024

Esta obra ofrece al lector una mirada sencilla y sistemática de la doctrina de las cláusulas abusivas dada la creciente importancia que esta temática tiene en un contexto como el actual, caracterizado por la desigualdad en el poder de negociación de los partícipes en el mercado y la utilización de contratos cuyo contenido ha sido establecido por una sola de las partes. Así, el texto presenta el estado actual y los elementos más importantes de la doctrina de las cláusulas abusivas. Para ello, a partir del análisis de la ley, la jurisprudencia y la doctrina, tanto nacional como extranjera, el autor aborda, entre otros asuntos, el estudio de los principios y conceptos jurídicos que la sustentan, así como las finalidades que persigue. Adicionalmente, define qué es una cláusula abusiva e identifica sus características y sanciones jurídicas. Finalmente, expone los mecanismos de control existentes para evitar la inclusión de las mencionadas cláusulas en los contratos.