bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the mental health of Autistic working parents: A scoping review
Authors: Gore Katherine , Gilbert Melissa , Hayward Susan M , Flower Rebecca L , Barbaro Josephine
Published: September 2024

Few studies have explored the mental health of Autistic working parents, despite mental health being a research priority for Autistic people. This scoping review aimed to assess the type and extent of evidence relating to the mental health of Autistic working parents. Utilising the Joanna Briggs Institute's methodology for scoping reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews, a total of 9,486 records were screened, with 12 studies included. Data were charted using a data extraction template. Data extracted for each source study included: title, year of publication, author(s), country/region of origin, aim(s), population/sample size, proportion of Autistic working parents in study population, sex and/or gender of Autistic participants, method, mental health measures, and findings. The review identified that more research is needed to establish if the intersection of being Autistic, employed, and a parent (including parenting neurodivergent children) leads to differences in mental health in Autistic working parents compared to other populations and to determine if tailored supports are required for Autistic working parents.
ZCCHC8 p.P410A disrupts nucleocytoplasmic localization, promoting idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Wang Chen-Yu , Chang Si-Hua , Hu Cheng-Feng , Hu Yi-Qiao , Luo Hong , Liu Lv , Fan Liang-Liang
Published: September 2024

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a special kind of chronic interstitial lung disease with insidious onset. Previous studies have revealed that mutations in ZCCHC8 may lead to IPF. The aim of this study is to explore the ZCCHC8 mutations in Chinese IPF patients.

Methods

Here, we enrolled 124 patients with interstitial lung disease from 2017 to 2023 in our hospital. Whole exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were employed to explore the genetic lesions of these patients.

Results

Among these 124 patients, a novel mutation (NM_017612: c.1228 C > G/p.P410A) of Zinc Finger CCHC-Type Containing 8 (ZCCHC8)was identified in a family with IPF and chronic obstructive lung disease. As a component of the nuclear exosome-targeting complex that regulates the turnover of human telomerase RNA, ZCCHC8 mutations have been reported may lead to IPF in European population and American population. Functional study confirmed that the novel mutation can disrupt the nucleocytoplasmic localization of ZCCHC8, which further decreased the expression of DKC1 and RTEL1, and finally reduced the length of telomere and led to IPF and related disorders.

Conclusions

We may first report the ZCCHC8 mutation in Asian population with IPF. Our study broadens the mutation, phenotype, and population spectrum of ZCCHC8 deficiency.
Decompression alone or fusion in single-level lumbar spinal stenosis with spondylolisthesis? A systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Cheng Haiyang , Luo Gan , Xu Dan , Li Yuqiao , Yang Houzhi , Cao Sheng , Sun Tianwei
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The objective of this systematic review and metaanalysis is to compare the efficacy and safety of decompression alone versus decompression plus fusion in single-level lumbar spinal stenosis with spondylolisthesis.

Methods

A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Ovid Medline databases was conducted to find randomized control trials (RCTs) or cohort studies that compared decompression alone and decompression plus fusion in single-level lumbar spinal stenosis with spondylolisthesis. Operation time; reoperation; postoperative complications; postoperative Oswestry disability index(ODI) scores and scores related to back and leg pain were collected from eligible studies for meta-analysis.

Results

We included 3 randomized controlled trials and 9 cohort studies with 6182 patients. The decompression alone group showed less operative time(P < 0.001) and intraoperative blood loss(p = 0.000), and no significant difference in postoperative complications was observed in randomized controlled trials(p = 0.428) or cohort studies(p = 0.731). There was no significant difference between the other two groups in reoperation(P = 0.071), postoperative ODI scores and scores related to back and leg pain.

Conclusions

In this study, we found that the decompression alone group performed better in terms of operation time and intraoperative blood loss, and there was no significant difference between the two surgical methods in rate of reoperation and postoperative complications, ODI, low back pain and leg pain. Therefore, we come to the conclusion that decompression alone is not inferior to decompression and fusion in patients with single-level lumbar spinal stenosis with spondylolisthesis.
Advancing a new model of collaborative practice: a decade of Whole Health interprofessional education across Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Liao Theresa H. , Rindfleisch J. Adam , Howard Kelly Peyton , Castellani Marc , Noyes Sara Grimsgaard
Published: September 2024

Large-scale implementation of interprofessional education across the United States Veterans Health Administration has supported advancement of a new model of collaborative practice, the Whole Health System, centering on the patient and what matters most to them. Other health care systems can consider similar educational efforts for health care transformation.
Simple supplementation of serum-free medium produces gametocytes of Plasmodium falciparum that transmit to mosquitoes
Authors: Pradhan Sabyasachi , Ubiaru Prince Chigozirim , Ranford-Cartwright Lisa
Published: September 2024

Background

Human serum is a major component of Plasmodium falciparum culture medium, and can be replaced with AlbuMAX™ II, a lipid-rich bovine serum albumin, for asexual cultures. However, gametocytes produced without serum are poorly infective to mosquitoes. Serum suffers from high cost, limited availability, and variability in quality.

Methods

Several commercially-available media supplements were tested for their ability to support parasite growth and production of P. falciparum (3D7) gametocytes in standard RPMI1640 medium containing 0.5% AlbuMAX. The impact on asexual growth and gametocyte production with each supplement was assessed and compared to standard RPMI1640 medium containing 10% human serum, as well as to medium containing 0.5% AlbuMAX alone. The infectivity of gametocytes produced with one supplement to Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto was assessed by standard membrane feeding assay and measuring both prevalence of infection and oocyst intensity.

Results

Supplementation of medium containing 0.5% AlbuMAX with five supplements did not affect asexual growth of P. falciparum, and four of the five supplements supported early gametocyte production. The supplement producing the highest number of gametocytes, ITS-X, was further investigated and was found to support the production of mature gametocytes. Infection prevalence and oocyst intensity did not differ significantly between mosquitoes given a membrane feed containing gametocytes grown in medium with 0.5% AlbuMAX + ITS-X and those grown in medium with 10% human serum. Infection prevalence and oocyst intensity was significantly higher in case of ITS–X supplementation when compared to AlbuMAX alone. Infectious gametocytes were also produced from two field clones using ITS–X supplementation.

Conclusions

Serum-free medium supplemented with ITS-X was able to support the growth of gametocytes of P. falciparum that were as infectious to An. gambiae as those grown in medium with 10% serum. This is the first fully serum-free culture system able to produce highly infectious gametocytes, thereby removing the requirement for access to serum for transmission assays.
Potential impact of climatic factors on malaria in Rwanda between 2012 and 2021: a time-series analysis
Authors: Rubuga Felix K. , Ahmed Ayman , Siddig Emmanuel , Sera Francesco , Moirano Giovenale , Aimable Mbituyumuremyi , Albert Tuyishime , Gallican Nshogoza R. , Nebié Eric I. , Kitema Gatera F. , Vounatsou Penelope , Utzinger Jürg , Cissé Guéladio
Published: September 2024

Background

Malaria remains an important public health problem, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Rwanda, where malaria ranks among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity, disease transmission is influenced by climatic factors. However, there is a paucity of studies investigating the link between climate change and malaria dynamics, which hinders the development of effective national malaria response strategies. Addressing this critical gap, this study analyses how climatic factors influence malaria transmission across Rwanda, thereby informing tailored interventions and enhancing disease management frameworks.

Methods

The study analysed the potential impact of temperature and cumulative rainfall on malaria incidence in Rwanda from 2012 to 2021 using meteorological data from the Rwanda Meteorological Agency and malaria case records from the Rwanda Health Management and Information System. The analysis was performed in two stages. First, district-specific generalized linear models with a quasi-Poisson distribution were applied, which were enhanced by distributed lag non-linear models to explore non-linear and lagged effects. Second, random effects multivariate meta-analysis was employed to pool the estimates and to refine them through best linear unbiased predictions.

Results

A 1-month lag with specific temperature and rainfall thresholds influenced malaria incidence across Rwanda. Average temperature of 18.5 °C was associated with higher malaria risk, while temperature above 23.9 °C reduced the risk. Rainfall demonstrated a dual effect on malaria risk: conditions of low (below 73 mm per month) and high (above 223 mm per month) precipitation correlated with lower risk, while moderate rainfall (87 to 223 mm per month) correlated with higher risk. Seasonal patterns showed increased malaria risk during the major rainy season, while the short dry season presented lower risk.

Conclusion

The study underscores the influence of temperature and rainfall on malaria transmission in Rwanda and calls for tailored interventions that are specific to location and season. The findings are crucial for informing policy that enhance preparedness and contribute to malaria elimination efforts. Future research should explore additional ecological and socioeconomic factors and their differential contribution to malaria transmission.
The associations of muscle-strengthening exercise with recurrence and mortality among breast cancer survivors: a systematic review
Authors: Wilson Oliver W.A. , Wojcik Kaitlyn M. , Kamil Dalya , Gorzelitz Jessica , Butera Gisela , Matthews Charles E. , Jayasekera Jinani
Published: September 2024

Background

Our systematic review aimed to critically evaluate empirical literature describing the association of muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE) with recurrence and/or mortality among breast cancer survivors.

Methods

We included English-language empirical research studies examining the association between MSE and recurrence and/or mortality among females diagnosed with breast cancer. Seven databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL, and CINAHL) were searched in September 2023. Quality was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results are summarized descriptively.

Results

Five sources were identified. MSE measurement differed in relation to the description of the MSE (i.e., muscle-strengthening vs. strength training), examples of activities (e.g., sit-ups or push-ups vs. calisthenics vs. circuit training), and exercise frequency (i.e., days vs. times/week). Findings offer provisional evidence that some MSE may lower the hazards of recurrence and mortality. This association may vary by race, weight status, and menopausal status.

Conclusions

In summary, limited available evidence suggests that MSE may lower the hazards of recurrence and mortality. More consistent measurement and analyses would help generate findings that are more readily comparable and applicable to inform clinical practice. Further research is needed to improve understanding of the strength and differences of these associations among underserved and underrepresented women.
Legendary fermented herbs: an ethnobotanical study of the traditional fermentation starter of the Chuanqing people in Northwestern Guizhou, China
Authors: Zhao Jiawen , Wang Qinghe , Ren Zixuan , Yang Changqin , Guan Shiyu , Wang Xiaoyan , Huang Yan , Yao Ruyu , Yin Hongxiang
Published: September 2024

Background

Plants that contain brewing microorganisms are used in traditional fermentation starters, which are an essential part of local diet, nutrition, life, and health. Regionally, the plant species used and the microorganisms included in traditional fermentation starters are diverse, endowing local fermented drinks with different flavors and health benefits. However, related traditional knowledge has been scarcely documented or revealed.

Methods

An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in five towns of Nayong County in northwestern Guizhou, China. Snowball sampling, semi-structured interviews, free lists, and participatory observation were used to collect information on Jiuqu Plants (JPs) and jiuqu-making techniques. The PacBio platform was used to study the microbial community structure and diversity in the Chuanqing people’s jiuqu.

Results

In total, 225 informants were interviewed, including 116 who provided plants and technological processes for making Chinese baijiu jiuqu (CBJ) and 139 who provided information about making fermented glutinous rice jiuqu (FGRJ). This study found that older people have more abundant knowledge about CBJ plants. Poaceae was found to be the dominant family used in making CBJ and FGRJ (7 species each). Compared to individual plant parts, the whole plant is most commonly used in two kinds of jiuqu (19.5% in CBJ and 22.6% in FGRJ). The Chuanqing people’s jiuqu is used to treat dietary stagnation and indigestion. The highest relative frequency of citation of the CBJ plant was Ficus tikoua Bureau, and the counterpart of the FGRJ plant was Buddleja macrostachya Benth. The dominant bacterial species in jiuqu were Gluconobacter japonicus (YQ1, YQ4) and Pediococcus pentosaceus (YQ2, YQ3), and the dominant fungal species was Rhizopus oryzae.

Conclusion

For the first time, this study documents the unique traditional jiuqu knowledge and reveals the microbial mystery behind the FGRJ of the Chuanqing people.

Therefore, this study encourages the use of online social media platforms in order to spread Jiuqu culture, the use of the new media wave in order to create multimedia databases, and also suggests that local communities should develop preservation intervention programs, in addition to nurturing the inheritors in order to prevent the disappearance of traditional Jiuqu knowledge. This research contributes to the conservation and demystification of the traditional jiuqu knowledge of the Chuanqing people and lays the foundation for further research on its microbiology, nutrition, and metabolomics.
Risk perceptions of Italian paediatricians for the impact of climate change on children’s health
Authors: Moraca Sara , Indinnimeo Luciana , De Nuntiis Paola
Published: September 2024

Backgrounds

This study delves into the risk perceptions of Italian pediatricians concerning climate change's impact on children's health. Given children's heightened vulnerability to climate-related health risks, comprehending these perceptions is crucial. A review of pertinent literature establishes the framework, emphasizing six key factors influencing children's susceptibility to climate-related health hazards.

Methods

Methodologically, the study utilized a survey tool developed collaboratively with the Italian Society of Pediatrics (SIP), garnering responses from a representative sample of Italian pediatricians.

Results

Findings indicate a high level of awareness among respondents regarding climate change and its health implications, with a majority attributing it primarily to human activity. Pediatricians recognize various current and anticipated health impacts of climate change, notably concerning illnesses linked to outdoor air quality. Despite acknowledging their role in addressing climate-related health concerns, respondents also cite barriers to engagement, including time constraints and knowledge gaps. However, they express interest in resources like professional training and policy statements to bolster their capacity for effective communication and advocacy.

Conclusions

Comparisons with prior studies highlight the consistency of findings across diverse contexts and underscore the significance of integrating climate and environmental health education into medical training. Overall, this study sheds light on pediatricians' perspectives in tackling the convergence of climate change and children's health, pinpointing avenues for enhancing their involvement in climate advocacy and mitigation efforts.
Developing a process for assessing the safety of a digital mental health intervention and gaining regulatory approval: a case study and academic’s guide
Authors: Taher Rayan , Hall Charlotte L. , Bergin Aislinn D Gomez , Gupta Neha , Heaysman Clare , Jacobsen Pamela , Kabir Thomas , Kalnad Nayan , Keppens Jeroen , Hsu Che-Wei , McGuire Philip , Peters Emmanuelle , Shergill Sukhi , Stahl Daniel , Stock Ben Wensley , Yiend Jenny
Published: September 2024

Background

The field of digital mental health has followed an exponential growth trajectory in recent years. While the evidence base has increased significantly, its adoption within health and care services has been slowed by several challenges, including a lack of knowledge from researchers regarding how to navigate the pathway for mandatory regulatory approval. This paper details the steps that a team must take to achieve the required approvals to carry out a research study using a novel digital mental health intervention. We used a randomised controlled trial of a digital mental health intervention called STOP (Successful Treatment of Paranoia) as a worked example.

Methods

The methods section explains the two main objectives that are required to achieve regulatory approval (MHRA Notification of No Objection) and the detailed steps involved within each, as carried out for the STOP trial. First, the existing safety of digital mental health interventions must be demonstrated. This can refer to literature reviews, any feasibility/pilot safety data, and requires a risk management plan. Second, a detailed plan to further evaluate the safety of the digital mental health intervention is needed. As part of this we describe the STOP study’s development of a framework for categorising adverse events and based on this framework, a tool to collect adverse event data.

Results

We present literature review results, safety-related feasibility study findings and the full risk management plan for STOP, which addressed 26 possible hazards, and included the 6-point scales developed to quantify the probability and severity of typical risks involved when a psychiatric population receives a digital intervention without the direct support of a therapist. We also present an Adverse Event Category Framework for Digital Therapeutic Devices and the Adverse Events Checklist—which assesses 15 different categories of adverse events—that was constructed from this and used in the STOP trial.

Conclusions

The example shared in this paper serves as a guide for academics and professionals working in the field of digital mental health. It provides insights into the safety assessment requirements of regulatory bodies when a clinical investigation of a digital mental health intervention is proposed. Methods, scales and tools that could easily be adapted for use in other similar research are presented, with the expectation that these will assist other researchers in the field seeking regulatory approval for digital mental health products.
A patient-derived cell model for malignant transformation in IDH-mutant glioma
Authors: Kim Olga , Sergi Zach , Yu Guangyang , Yamamoto Kazutoshi , Quezado Martha , Abdullaev Zied , Crooks Danel R. , Kishimoto Shun , Li Qi , Lu Peng , Blackman Burchelle , Andresson Thorkell , Wu Xiaolin , Tran Bao , Wei Jun S. , Zhang Wei , Zhang Meili , Song Hua , Khan Javed , Krishna Murali C. , Brender Jeffrey R. , Wu Jing
Published: September 2024

Malignant transformation (MT) is commonly seen in IDH-mutant gliomas. There has been a growing research interest in revealing its underlying mechanisms and intervening prior to MT at the early stages of the transforming process. Here we established a unique pair of matched 3D cell models: 403L, derived from a low-grade glioma (LGG), and 403H, derived from a high-grade glioma (HGG), by utilizing IDH-mutant astrocytoma samples from the same patient when the tumor was diagnosed as WHO grade 2 (tumor mutational burden (TMB) of 3.96/Mb) and later as grade 4 (TMB of 70.07/Mb), respectively. Both cell models were authenticated to a patient’s sample retaining endogenous expression of IDH1 R132H. DNA methylation profiles of the parental tumors referred to LGG and HGG IDH-mutant glioma clusters. The immunopositivity of SOX2, NESTIN, GFAP, OLIG2, and beta 3-Tubulin suggested the multilineage potential of both models. 403H was more prompt to cell invasion and developed infiltrative HGG in vivo. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the RNA sequencing analysis revealed the tumor invasion and aggressiveness related genes exclusively upregulated in the 403H model. Pathway analysis showcased an enrichment of genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and Notch signaling pathways in 403H and 403L, respectively. Mass spectrometry-based targeted metabolomics and hyperpolarized (HP) 1-13C pyruvate in-cell NMR analyses demonstrated significant alterations in the TCA cycle and fatty acid metabolism. Citrate, glutamine, and 2-HG levels were significantly higher in 403H. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the development of a matched pair of 3D patient-derived cell models representative of MT and temozolomide (TMZ)-induced hypermutator phenotype (HMP) in IDH-mutant glioma, providing insights into genetic and metabolic changes during MT/HMP. This novel in vitro model allows further investigation of the mechanisms of MT at the cellular level.

Graphic Abstract
Successful resection of a rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumor using a transperineal approach: a case report
Authors: Endo Yoki , Fukuoka Tatsunari , Ozawa Shintaro , Ishidate Takemi , Yonemitsu Ken , Seki Yuki , Kasashima Hiroaki , Miki Yuichiro , Yoshii Mami , Tamura Tatsuro , Shibutani Masatsune , Toyokawa Takahiro , Lee Shigeru , Maeda Kiyoshi
Published: September 2024

Background

Rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) complicate surgical approaches because of their anatomical position. We herein report a patient with rectal GIST on the anterior wall of the lower rectum, hat was successfully resected using a transperineal approach.

Case presentation

This report describes a unique case of a 73-year-old man who was diagnosed with rectal GIST on the anterior wall of the lower rectum. The tumor was located within 3 cm of the anal verge, a location that would require highly invasive surgery. A transperineal approach was planned to preserve the anal function. Under general anesthesia, the patient was placed in a lithotomy position and a Mercedes-Benz incision was made in the perineum. Excision of the tumor was performed. The post-operative course was uneventful, and the patient remained free from recurrence.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of performing minimally invasive and safe surgery. With some surgical refinements, a transperineal approach may be an option for surgical procedures in patients with rectal GIST on the anterior wall of the lower rectum.
Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the Chichewa (Malawi) PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales child self-report and PedsQL™ 4.0 GCS teen self-report
Authors: Ngwira Lucky Gift , Maheswaran Hendramoorthy , Petrou Stavros , Niessen Louis W. , Smith Sarah C.
Published: September 2024

Background

The PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales (GSC) have been translated into over 60 languages, but use in the sub-Saharan African region is limited. This study aimed to cross-culturally adapt and validate the PedsQL™ 4.0 GCS child self-report and teen self-report versions into the Chichewa language for Malawi.

Methods

The English (USA) versions were adapted (translation, back translation and cognitive interviews to evaluate conceptual equivalence) into Chichewa. We recruited 289 children (8–17 years) in Blantyre, Malawi. Classical psychometrics at the item level (missing data, endorsement frequencies, item redundancy) and scale level (internal consistency, convergent, discriminant and known groups validity) was used to evaluate the new Chichewa versions.

Results

Six items were found to need cultural adaptation for Malawi. There were problems with missing data (< 5%) and adjacent endorsement frequency (< 10%) among younger children. Internal consistency reliability was acceptable (Cronbach α > 0.7). Convergent validity was generally strong (correlations > 0.4). Discriminant validity (p > 0.05) was evident with respect to gender and age, but not for school grade (p < 0.05). Effect sizes indicating known groups validity were in the expected direction but of variable magnitude.

Conclusion

We have successfully adapted the PedsQL™ 4.0 GCS child self-report and teen self-report into Chichewa for use in Malawi. Many aspects of the psychometric evaluation were promising, though some elements were more mixed and we have not yet been able to evaluate test-retest reliability or responsiveness. We suggest that the PedsQL™4.0 GCS child and teen self-reports should be used with caution among children and adolescents in Malawi.
Multiscale simulation of rarefied gas dynamics via direct intermittent GSIS-DSMC coupling
Authors: Luo Liyan , Wu Lei
Published: September 2024

The general synthetic iterative scheme (GSIS) has proven its efficacy in modeling rarefied gas dynamics, where the steady-state solutions are obtained after dozens of iterations of the Boltzmann equation, with minimal numerical dissipation even using large spatial cells. In this paper, the fast convergence and asymptotic-preserving properties of the GSIS are harnessed to remove the limitations of the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method. The GSIS, which leverages high-order constitutive relations derived from DSMC, is applied intermittently, which not only rapidly steers the DSMC towards steady state, but also eliminates the requirement that the cell size must be smaller than the molecular mean free path. Several numerical tests have been conducted to validate the accuracy and efficiency of this hybrid GSIS-DSMC approach.
Harnessing hazardous wastes: the production, characterization, and performance of controlled low strength materials using common effluent treatment plant sludge
Authors: Narasimhaprasad Skanda Kumar Bangalore , Cheluvegowda Chandre Gowda , Ramakrishnaiah Chandrashekar , Ramachandra Suhas , Mallikarjunaiah Sreenatha , Anantharamaiah Shashi Shankar
Published: September 2024

India's rapid industrialization has led to an increase in waste generation, necessitating efficient disposal methods. This research addresses this challenge by exploring the use of Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) sludge, a hazardous waste, in the production of Controlled Low-Strength Materials (CLSM). The study aims to mitigate the environmental impacts associated with CETP sludge disposal while providing a sustainable solution. To assess the feasibility of this approach, an experimental program was conducted with variations in the mix ratio of CETP sludge and slag sand, a byproduct of steel production. The properties of the produced CLSM, such as flowability and unconfined compressive strength (UCS), were thoroughly examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray Diffraction, and X-ray Fluorescence analyses. The results reveal that the CLSM produced with CETP sludge and slag sand exhibits promising performance, with excellent flowability and UCS values ranging from 1.8 to 5.5 MPa. This research underscores the potential of waste materials in creating sustainable and environmentally friendly construction materials, contributing to effective waste management practices and sustainable industrial growth.
LC–MS/MS-QTOF analysis of Anodendron parviflorum (Roxb.) leaves extract and exploring its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic potential
Authors: Sharmila Arunagiri , Selvaraj Chinnadurai Immanuel
Published: September 2024

Background

Traditional medicine claims that Anodendron parviflorum has benefits for treating various human diseases. The present study seeks to understand better the phytochemical and LC–MS/MS-QTOF profiling of A. parviflorum's ethanolic extract and to investigate the properties of the different solvents of A. parviflorum for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, toxicity, and cytotoxic effects.

Results

The quantitative methods exhibited higher total phenolics (327.16 ± 2.4 mg GAE/g dw), total flavonoid (109.82 ± 1.9 mg QE/g dw), and total alkaloid (14.13 ± 0.09%) content in ethanol extract. In contrast, a higher total extraction value (22.8 ± 0.6%) and total terpenoid (57.23 ± 0.06 mg LL/g dw) content was shown in the methanol extract of A. parviflorum. LC–MS/MS-QTOF analysis of its ethanolic extract revealed a notable occurrence of phenols and flavonoids. The ethanolic extract of A. parviflorum exhibited significant antioxidant activities with lower IC50 values in DPPH, phosphomolybdenum, and metal chelating and reducing power assay. The methanolic extract of A. parviflorum had the more significant anti-inflammatory property (94.55 ± 0.1%) in the bovine serum albumin assay. The extracts also demonstrated a higher inhibition zone against pathogenic bacteria. The ethanolic extract of A. parviflorum demonstrated substantial cytotoxicity against A549 cells.

Conclusion

Consequently, these findings validate the use of A. parviflorum in traditional medical practices due to its bioactive compounds, which may have potential therapeutic value in various biomedical applications.

Highlights

A. parviflorum leaves extract showed the presence of significant levels of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, and terpenoids.

LC–MS/MS-QTOF analysis revealed notable bioactive compounds of A. parviflorum.

The different extracts showed remarkable antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.

The extracts exhibited less hemolytic and higher thrombolytic activities.

It demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against A549 cell lines.

Graphical abstract
Benefits of integrating seismic and gravity data in a subsalt environment: A case study at block BM-C-33, deepwater Campos Basin, offshore Brazil
Authors: Cardozo Karine L. , Bergamashi Sergio , Menezes Paulo T. L. , Salomão Marcelo S.
Published: September 2024

Imaging subsalt layers is challenging in the BM-C-33 block in the Campos Basin’s ultradeep waters. This block is important because it has three significant gas and condensate discoveries in the presalt carbonate and volcanic reservoirs—Seat, Gávea, and Pão de Açucar. Understanding basement morphology is essential to better define the petroleum system in the area. To that end, we performed a 2D gravity modeling exercise along a northwest–southeast section using seismic interpretation as input to reduce the ambiguity of the modeling exercise. To achieve this, we fixed the main sedimentary horizons and their densities (calculated via well-log information) to better estimate the top of the basement morphology. This interpretation strategy better delineated the presalt sedimentary section and the complex structural framework with two asymmetric grabens bounded by a prominent horst, interpreted as a migration focusing high in the BM-C-33 area. In addition, our findings show that obtaining clear images remains challenging even after extensive processing of the seismic data set. We suggest that seismic node acquisition with ultralong offsets and multiazimuthal illumination and then carefully processing the data is required to accurately reveal the area’s prerift section and basement morphology under study.
Reservoir-oriented migrated seismic image improvement and poststack seismic inversion using well-seismic mistie
Authors: Li Mengcheng , Huang Xuri , Tang Shuhang , Chen Kang , Ran Qi
Published: September 2024

In seismic exploration of subsurface hydrocarbon reservoirs, migrated seismic images are the foundation of structural interpretation and subsequent seismic inversion for reservoir properties. Seismic events in migrated images can be mispositioned due to several factors, such as seismic velocity inaccuracy. The mispositioned events lead to poor well-seismic tie and degrade the accuracy of subsequent inversion and reservoir prediction. Particularly, the mistie can be quite obvious for the mid- and mature-phases of the reservoir development after many wells drilled. We propose using the information from mistie between seismic images and synthetic traces to improve the accuracy of migrated seismic images and thus inversion results. Our method includes three major steps: (1) calculate time shifts between the synthetic traces and the colocated seismic trace using the path-limited dynamic time warping algorithm, (2) compute the time-shift volume for the entire migrated image using the seismic-driven modeling approach based on the time-shift traces at the well locations, and (3) apply the time-shift volume to update the migrated image. The improved seismic volume can be used for further processing, such as seismic inversion, which makes the inversion results more consistent with seismic and well data. We apply our method to synthetic and field data sets. The results demonstrate that the updated seismic image has an improved seismic well tie and an improved inversion result. Our method indicates a venue for a better honor of seismic and well data in reservoir characterization.
STRIvE-02: A First-in-Human Phase I Study of Systemically Administered B7-H3 Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells for Patients With Relapsed/Refractory Solid Tumors
Authors: Pinto Navin , Albert Catherine M. , Taylor Mallory R. , Ullom Heidi B. , Wilson Ashley L. , Huang Wenjun , Wendler Jason , Pattabhi Sowmya , Seidel Kristy , Brown Christopher , Gustafson Joshua A. , Rawlings-Rhea Stephanie D. , Cheeney Safia H.E. , Burleigh Katelyn , Gustafson Heather H. , Orentas Rimas J. , Vitanza Nicholas A. , Gardner Rebecca A. , Jensen Michael C. , Park Julie R.
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

B7-H3 is an immunoregulatory protein overexpressed by many pediatric solid tumors with limited expression on critical organs, making it an attractive immunotherapy target. We present a first-in-human phase I clinical trial systemically administered B7-H3 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells for young patients with relapsed or refractory solid tumors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were enrolled onto a phase I trial to examine the safety of B7-H3–specific CARs at various dose levels (DLs) using a standard 3 + 3 dose escalation design.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (range, 11-24 years; median, 18.5 years) were enrolled, and nine were treated at DL1 (0.5 × 10
6
CAR T cells/kg; n = 3) or DL2 (1 × 10
6
CAR T cells/kg; n = 6). There were no first infusion dose-limiting toxicities. Maximum first-infusion circulating CAR T cells detected in the peripheral blood were 4.98 cells/μL (range, 0-4.98 cells/μL) with detection of CAR T cells colocalizing with tumor cells at the site of metastatic disease in one patient. Patients were eligible for subsequent infusions. An objective partial response by PERCIST criteria was observed 28 days after a second CAR T cell infusion in a patient who did not have an objective response after the first infusion. The second infusion demonstrated marked enhancement of CAR T cell expansion to 1,590 cells/μL and was accompanied by cytokine release syndrome and dose-limiting transaminitis. Detailed peripheral blood cytokine profiling revealed elevated IL-21 levels preinfusion 2 compared with infusion 1.

CONCLUSION

B7-H3 CAR T cells are tolerable and demonstrate limited antitumor activity without acute on-target, off-tumor toxicity. High levels of CAR T cell expansion may be necessary to achieve objective responses, but undefined host and tumor microenvironment factors appear to be critical (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
NCT04483778
).
Naldemedine for Opioid-Induced Constipation in Patients With Cancer: A Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Hamano Jun , Higashibata Takahiro , Kessoku Takaomi , Kajiura Shinya , Hirakawa Mami , Oyamada Shunsuke , Ariyoshi Keisuke , Yamada Takeshi , Yamamoto Yoshiyuki , Takashima Yasuyuki , Doki Kosuke , Homma Masato , Mathis Bryan J. , Jono Tsumugi , Ogata Tomoki , Tanaka Kosuke , Kasai Yuki , Iwaki Michihiro , Fuyuki Akiko , Nakajima Atsushi , Hayashi Ryuji , Ando Takayuki , Izawa Naoki , Kobayashi Yuko , Horie Yoshiki , Morita Tatsuya
Published: September 2024

PURPOSE

Opioid-induced constipation is the most frequent and non–self-limiting adverse effect of opioid analgesia, reducing adherence and interfering with pain relief. This clinical trial aimed to clarify the preventive effect of naldemedine versus placebo for constipation in patients with cancer starting regularly dosed strong opioids therapy.

METHODS

This multicenter, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, confirmatory trial was conducted between July 2021 and May 2023 at four academic hospitals in Japan (Japan Registry of Clinical Trials identifier: jRCTs031200397). Patients with cancer starting a first-time regularly dosed strong opioid for cancer pain and age 20+ years were included. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to the naldemedine (Symproic 0.2 mg) or placebo group in a 1:1 ratio for 14 days with protocol treatment. The primary end point was the proportion of patients with a Bowel Function Index (BFI) of <28.8 on day 14. The secondary end points included frequency of spontaneous bowel movements (SBM), quality of life (QOL), and frequency of opioid-induced nausea and vomiting (OINV).

RESULTS

Of the 103 patients assessed for eligibility, 99 received either naldemedine (n = 49) or placebo (n = 50). A BFI of <28.8 on day 14 was significantly more likely to occur in the naldemedine group (64.6%; 95% CI, 51.1 to 78.1) versus placebo (17.0%; 95% CI, 6.3 to 27.8), and the difference between groups was 47.6% (95% CI, 30.3 to 64.8;
P
< .0001). The frequency of SBM, QOL, and the severity of OINV were nominally significant in the naldemedine group than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Naldemedine prevented constipation and improved constipation-related QOL, with possible preventive effect on OINV in patients with cancer starting regularly dosed opioids therapy.
Final Overall Survival Analysis of S1500: A Randomized, Phase II Study Comparing Sunitinib With Cabozantinib, Crizotinib, and Savolitinib in Advanced Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Barata Pedro , Tangen Catherine , Plets Melissa , Thompson Ian M. , Narayan Vivek , George Daniel J. , Heng Daniel Y.C. , Shuch Brian , Stein Mark , Gulati Shuchi , Tretiakova Maria , Tripathi Abhishek , Bjarnason Georg A. , Humphrey Peter , Adeniran Adebowale , Vaishampayan Ulka , Alva Ajjai , Zhang Tian , Cole Scott , Lara Primo N. , Lerner Seth P. , Balzer-Haas Naomi , Pal Sumanta K.
Published: September 2024

Clinical trials frequently include multiple end points that mature at different times. The initial report, typically based on the primary end point, may be published when key planned co-primary or secondary analyses are not yet available. Clinical Trial Updates provide an opportunity to disseminate additional results from studies, published in
JCO
or elsewhere, for which the primary end point has already been reported.

Mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) signaling pathway plays a role in the pathogenesis of selected patients with papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC). In the phase II PAPMET trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
NCT02761057
), cabozantinib significantly prolonged progression-free survival and improved objective response rate compared with sunitinib in patients with advanced PRCC. Here, we present the final overall survival (OS) analysis. In this multicenter, randomized phase II, open-label trial, 147 patients with advanced PRCC who have received up to one previous therapy (excluding vascular endothelial growth factor–directed agents) were assigned to sunitinib, cabozantinib, crizotinib, or savolitinib. Ultimately, savolitinib and crizotinib arms were closed because of futility. With a median follow-up of 17.5 months, the median OS was 21.5 months (95% CI, 12.0 to 28.1) with cabozantinib and 17.3 months (95% CI, 12.8 to 21.8) with sunitinib (hazard ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.51 to 1.36;
P
= .46). The OS landmark estimates for cabozantinib and sunitinib were 50% versus 39% at 24 months and 32% versus 28% at 36 months. In conclusion, we observed no significant difference in OS across treatment arms. Although cabozantinib represents a well-supported option for advanced PRCC, the lack of survival benefit underscores the need to develop novel therapies for this disease.
Divisive Affect, Loyalty, and National Cohesion: Du Bois contra Wagner
Authors: Engelstein Stefani
Published: September 2024

The question of divisive affect and national cohesion has been placed at the center of debates in the United States over curricula dealing with race, but the problem is not a new one. Several European thinkers of the late-nineteenth through early-twentieth century theorized affect in the context of social cohesion, including Richard Wagner, Ernest Renan, and Georg Simmel. W. E. B. Du Bois, the author argues, lays bare the power dynamics of these intersecting views in his short story, “The Coming of John” in The Souls of Black Folk. Du Bois recognizes and critiques a specific strategy that he finds most clearly crystallized in Wagner, who advocates building and transmitting national allegiance by suppressing historical knowledge, fostering affective attachment to the nation, and excluding dissenters. Philologist Ernest Renan and sociologist Georg Simmel elaborate on the temporal dimensions of these mechanisms. In conversation with these theories, Du Bois illustrates in “The Coming of John” a stickiness of time—reiteration rather than reconciliation—arising from the reciprocally reinforcing functions of loyalty and ignorance of the past. While Du Bois here also employs methods for re-engaging historical time, the difficulty of moving beyond past social structures reemerges in his later works.
Can We Still Say “We”? Manuel Puig and the Question of Readership in the Global Age
Authors: Brock Ashley
Published: September 2024

What kinds of collectivities might come into being in literature in an age of diverse global readership? This question, pressing for twenty-first-century reevaluations of comparative literature, is not new to Latin American literature and its criticism. This article takes Manuel Puig’s 1980 novel Maldición eterna a quien lea estas páginas as an example of a text that engages in debates of its moment, including reader-response theory and Latin American testimonio, while also looking over their horizons to anticipate the ways the collective “we” of literary studies would be thrown into question in the decades to come. Though the novel, which was written during Puig’s exile in New York and anticipates a metropolitan readership, condemns its reader from the outset to read badly (incompetently, extractively, parasitically), it also suggests that there is ethical value in staying with the textual encounter in which meaning, power, and relation are negotiated. Miscommunication, distortion, and projection may be inevitable when continuity in culture, language, and life experience cannot be assumed between writer, characters, and readers, but Puig’s novel affirms that the creative collaboration (however conflictive) that takes place in the act of reading is what gives rise to new ways of saying “we.”
Positive-strand RNA virus replication organelles at a glance
Authors: Stancheva Viktoriya G. , Sanyal Sumana
Published: September 2024

Membrane-bound replication organelles (ROs) are a unifying feature among diverse positive-strand RNA viruses. These compartments, formed as alterations of various host organelles, provide a protective niche for viral genome replication. Some ROs are characterised by a membrane-spanning pore formed by viral proteins. The RO membrane separates the interior from immune sensors in the cytoplasm. Recent advances in imaging techniques have revealed striking diversity in RO morphology and origin across virus families. Nevertheless, ROs share core features such as interactions with host proteins for their biogenesis and for lipid and energy transfer. The restructuring of host membranes for RO biogenesis and maintenance requires coordinated action of viral and host factors, including membrane-bending proteins, lipid-modifying enzymes and tethers for interorganellar contacts. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster, we highlight ROs as a universal feature of positive-strand RNA viruses reliant on virus–host interplay, and we discuss ROs in the context of extensive research focusing on their potential as promising targets for antiviral therapies and their role as models for understanding fundamental principles of cell biology.
Risk factors associated with respiratory distress syndrome in late preterm infants
Authors: Zhu Hongbin , Wang Yueyi , Yin Haiwei , Liu Fang , Ma Yanfei , Li Xinyue
Published: September 2024

Objective: To investigate the risk factors for neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) in late preterm infants.
Method: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 86 late preterm infants with a gestational age of 34-36+6 weeks who were admitted to Maternity & Child Care Center of Qinhuangdao from June 2022 to June 2023 and with complete clinical records. All enrolled infants were divided into the non-NRDS group(n=51) and the NRDS group(n=35) according to the presence or absence of NRDS.
Result: No statistically significant differences were observed in birth weight, gestational age and gravidity between the two groups(p>0.05), while there were statistically significant differences in fetal gender, mode of delivery and presence or absence of asphyxia(p<0.05). Moreover, no statistically significant differences were found in advanced maternal age, anemia, multiple births, and gestational hypertension(p>0.05), while there were statistically significant differences in placental abnormalities, intrauterine distress, premature rupture of membranes, and gestational diabetes mellitus(p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that fetal gender(male), placental abnormalities, intrauterine distress, premature rupture of membranes, and gestational diabetes mellitus were risk factors for NRDS in late preterm infants(p<0.05).
Conclusion: Late preterm infants suffer from NRDS due to a variety of complex pathogenic causes, with numerous complications. Factors such as male fetal gender, placental abnormalities, intrauterine distress, premature rupture of membranes, and gestational diabetes mellitus may increase the risk of NRDS in late preterm infants. In clinical observation, it is necessary to strengthen monitoring efforts and take timely measures to intervene in the course of NRDS.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9078
How to cite this: Zhu H, Wang Y, Yin H, Liu F, Ma Y, Li X. Risk factors associated with respiratory distress syndrome in late preterm infants. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9078
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.