bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief instruments for measuring nutrition literacy - the Nutrition Health Literacy Scale and the Self-Perceived Food Literacy Scale Short Form
Authors: Griebler Robert , Schütze Denise , Link Thomas , Schindler Karin
Published: July 2024

Background

A healthy diet is a critical factor in maintaining long-term health. In addition to a health-promoting food environment, the nutrition health literacy (NHL) and food literacy (FL) of the population are important in this context. This paper describes the development and validation of two short instruments to measure the nutrition literacy of the population, used in the Austrian Nutrition Literacy Survey 2021.

Methods

An instrument to measure NHL (Nutrition Health Literacy Scale; NHLS) has been adapted and further developed. To measure FL, the Self-perceived Food Literacy Scale by Poelman et al. has been modified and shortened (SPFL-SF). Validation of the instruments was based on data from a web survey conducted in Austria in 2021 with almost 3,000 participants aged 18 years and older. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to assess the factorial validity/dimensionality of the instruments. Additionally, internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, ordinal alpha, and McDonald’s omega.

Results

Both instruments demonstrate excellent data-model fit. The NHLS also shows excellent internal consistency (α = 0.91), while the SPFL-SF displays a sufficient internal consistency for all (α between 0.70 and 0.89) but one sub-dimension (resisting temptation α = 0.61). Furthermore, the distribution of the items indicates that the measures are understandable and suitable, as evidenced by the absence of missing values in the sample. In addition, the items of both instruments differ in their level of difficulty or agreement.

Conclusions

The NHLS and SPFL-SF are reliable and valid instruments for measuring NHL and FL in the general adult population. The brief instruments measuring the different aspects of nutrition literacy can be easily used in nutritional or evaluation studies. Further work is required to investigate other aspects of validity.
Lung cancer brain metastasis and hemorrhagic cerebral venous thrombosis: experiences and lessons
Authors: Tian Qilong , Wu Yingxi , Li Gang , Huang Xiaofeng , Cai Qing
Published: July 2024

The incidence of lung cancer brain metastasis combined with hemorrhagic cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is very rare, and the understanding and treatment experience of this case is insufficient. We reported a case of lung cancer brain metastasis accompanied by venous sinus thrombosis, and describe the diagnosis and treatment plan for colleagues to learn from experience and lessons.
Health system description and assessment: a scoping review of templates for systematic analyses
Authors: Waitzberg Ruth , Pfundstein Isabel , Maresso Anna , Rechel Bernd , van Ginneken Ewout , Quentin Wilm
Published: July 2024

Background

Understanding and comparing health systems is key for cross-country learning and health system strengthening. Templates help to develop standardised and coherent descriptions and assessments of health systems, which then allow meaningful analyses and comparisons. Our scoping review aims to provide an overview of existing templates, their content and the way data is presented.

Main body

Based on the WHO building blocks framework, we defined templates as having (1) an overall framework, (2) a list of indicators or topics, and (3) instructions for authors, while covering (4) the design of the health system, (5) an assessment of health system performance, and (6) should cover the entire health system. We conducted a scoping review of grey literature published between 2000 and 2023 to identify templates. The content of the identified templates was screened, analyzed and compared. We found 12 documents that met our inclusion criteria. The building block `health financing´ is covered in all 12 templates; and many templates cover ´service delivery´ and ´health workforce’. Health system performance is frequently assessed with regard to ‘access and coverage’, ‘quality and safety’, and ‘financial protection’. Most templates do not cover ‘responsiveness’ and ‘efficiency’. Seven templates combine quantitative and qualitative data, three are mostly quantitative, and two are primarily qualitative. Templates cover data and information that is mostly relevant for specific groups of countries, e.g. a particular geographical region, or for high or for low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Templates for LMICs rely more on survey-based indicators than administrative data.

Conclusions

This is the first scoping review of templates for standardized descriptions of health systems and assessments of their performance. The implications are that (1) templates can help analyze health systems across countries while accounting for context; (2) template-guided analyses of health systems could underpin national health policies, strategies, and plans; (3) organizations developing templates could learn from approaches of other templates; and (4) more research is needed on how to improve templates to better achieve their goals. Our findings provide an overview and help identify the most important aspects and topics to look at when comparing and analyzing health systems, and how data are commonly presented. The templates were created by organizations with different agendas and target audiences, and with different end products in mind. Comprehensive health systems analyses and comparisons require production of quantitative indicators and complementing them with qualitative information to build a holistic picture.

Clinical Trial Registration:  Not applicable.
Spatial distribution and factors associated with high completed fertility among women aged 40–49 years in Ghana: evidence from the 2022 Ghana Demographic Health Survey
Authors: Osborne Augustus , Bangura Camilla , Aboagye Richard Gyan , Wongnaah Florence Gyembuzie , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku
Published: July 2024

Background

High completed fertility among married and cohabiting women has profound consequences, including straining resources, increasing healthcare challenges, and contributing to educational and gender inequalities. This study examined the factors associated with high completed fertility among married and cohabiting women aged 40–49 years in Ghana.

Methods

Data for the study was sourced from the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS). A spatial map was used to present the women's geographic variations in high completed fertility. A mixed-effect multilevel binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with high completed fertility. The findings were presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The national proportion of high completed fertility among married and cohabiting women aged 40–49 years in Ghana was 52.0% [48.8, 55.2]. Women who were Ga/Dangme/Ewe by tribe [aOR = 2.32, 95% CI = 1.06, 5.08] had higher odds of high completed fertility than Akans. Women who indicated 6 + as their ideal number of children had a higher [aOR = 5.60, 95% CI = 2.90, 10.82] likelihood of high completed fertility compared to those whose ideal number of children was 0–3. Those who were using contraceptives at the time of the survey had a higher [aOR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.17, 4.55] likelihood of high completed fertility compared to those who were not using contraceptives. Women with secondary/higher education [aOR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.17, 0.58] had lower odds of high completed fertility than those without no formal education. Women with females as household heads [aOR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.33, 0.95] had lower odds of high completed fertility than males. Women in Volta, Western North, Ahafo, and Bono regions had lower odds of high completed fertility compared to those living in the Northeast region, with the lowest odds among those living in the Volta region [aOR = 0.08, 95% CI = 0.02, 0.40].

Conclusion

High completed fertility is prevalent in Ghana, with more than half of married and cohabiting women having at least five or more children. The government and policymakers in Ghana should promote education for women, increase culturally sensitive family planning programs, increase access to family planning resources, address ideal family size preferences, and improve understanding of contraceptive use.
Isolation methods and characterization of primary rat neurovascular cells
Authors: Floryanzia Sydney , Lee Seoyoung , Nance Elizabeth
Published: July 2024

Background

There is significant interest in isolating cells of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) for use in in vitro screening of therapeutics and analyzing cell specific roles in neurovascular pathology. Primary brain cells play an advantageous role in BBB models; however, isolation procedures often do not produce cells at high enough yields for experiments. In addition, although numerous reports provide primary cell isolation methods, the field is lacking in documentation and detail of expected morphological changes that occur throughout culturing and there are minimal troubleshooting resources. Here, we present simplified, robust, and reproducible methodology for isolating astrocytes, pericytes, and endothelial cells, and demonstrate several morphological benchmarks for each cell type throughout the process and culture timeframe. We also analyze common considerations for developing neurovascular cell isolation procedures and recommend solutions for troubleshooting.

Results

The presented methodology isolated astrocytes, pericytes, and endothelial cells and enabled cell attachment, maturation, and cell viability. We characterized milestones in cell maturation over 12 days in culture, a common timeline for applications of these cell types in BBB models. Phase contrast microscopy was used to show initial cell plating, attachment, and daily growth of isolated cells. Confocal microscopy images were analyzed to determine the identity of cell types and changes to cell morphology. Nuclear staining was also used to show the viability and proliferation of glial cells at four time points. Astrocyte branches became numerous and complex with increased culture time. Microglia, oligodendrocytes, and neurons were present in mixed glial cultures for 12 days, though the percentage of microglia and neurons expectedly decreased after passaging, with microglia demonstrating a less branched morphology.

Conclusions

Neurovascular cells can be isolated through our optimized protocols that minimize cell loss and encourage the adhesion and proliferation of isolated cells. By identifying timepoints of viable glia and neurons within an astrocyte-dominant mixed culture, these cells can be used to evaluate drug targeting, uptake studies, and response to pathological stimulus in the neurovascular unit.
Combination of dual JAK/HDAC inhibitor with regorafenib synergistically reduces tumor growth, metastasis, and regorafenib-induced toxicity in colorectal cancer
Authors: Bajpai Prachi , Agarwal Sumit , Afaq Farrukh , Al Diffalha Sameer , Chandrashekar Darshan S. , Kim Hyung-Gyoon , Shelton Abigail , Miller C. Ryan , Singh Santosh K. , Singh Rajesh , Varambally Sooryanarayana , Nagaraju Ganji Purnachandra , Manne Ashish , Paluri Ravi , Khushman Moh’d , Manne Upender
Published: July 2024

Background

Treatment with regorafenib, a multiple-kinase inhibitor, to manage metastatic colorectal cancers (mCRCs) shows a modest improvement in overall survival but is associated with severe toxicities. Thus, to reduce regorafenib-induced toxicity, we used regorafenib at low concentration along with a dual JAK/HDAC small-molecule inhibitor (JAK/HDACi) to leverage the advantages of both JAK and HDAC inhibition to enhance antitumor activity. The therapeutic efficacy and safety of the combination treatment was evaluated with CRC models.

Methods

The cytotoxicity of JAK/HDACi, regorafenib, and their combination were tested with normal colonic and CRC cells exhibiting various genetic backgrounds. Kinomic, ATAC-seq, RNA-seq, cell cycle, and apoptosis analyses were performed to evaluate the cellular functions/molecular alterations affected by the combination. Efficacy of the combination was assessed using patient-derived xenograft (PDX) and experimental metastasis models of CRC. To evaluate the interplay between tumor, its microenvironment, and modulation of immune response, MC38 syngeneic mice were utilized.

Results

The combination therapy decreased cell viability; phosphorylation of JAKs, STAT3, EGFR, and other key kinases; and inhibited deacetylation of histone H3K9, H4K8, and alpha tubulin proteins. It induced cell cycle arrest at G0-G1 phase and apoptosis of CRC cells. Whole transcriptomic analysis showed that combination treatment modulated molecules involved in apoptosis, extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, and focal adhesion pathways. It synergistically reduces PDX tumor growth and experimental metastasis, and, in a syngeneic mouse model, the treatment enhances the antitumor immune response as evidenced by higher infiltration of CD45 and cytotoxic cells. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that combination increased the bioavailability of regorafenib.

Conclusions

The combination treatment was more effective than with regorafenib or JAK/HDACi alone, and had minimal toxicity. A clinical trial to evaluate this combination for treatment of mCRCs is warranted.
Human Babesia odocoilei and Bartonella spp. co-infections in the Americas
Authors: Maggi Ricardo G. , Calchi Ana Cláudia , Moore Charlotte O. , Kingston Emily , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: July 2024

Background

In recent years, Babesia and Bartonella species co-infections in patients with chronic, nonspecific illnesses have continued to challenge and change the collective medical understanding of “individual pathogen” vector-borne infectious disease dynamics, pathogenesis and epidemiology. The objective of this case series is to provide additional molecular documentation of Babesia odocoilei infection in humans in the Americas and to emphasize the potential for co-infection with a Bartonella species.

Methods

The development of improved and more sensitive molecular diagnostic techniques, as confirmatory methods to assess active infection, has provided increasing clarity to the healthcare community.

Results

Using a combination of different molecular diagnostic approaches, infection with Babesia odocoilei was confirmed in seven people suffering chronic non-specific symptoms, of whom six were co-infected with one or more Bartonella species.

Conclusions

We conclude that infection with Babesia odocoilei is more frequent than previously documented and can occur in association with co-infection with Bartonella spp.

Graphical Abstract
Stereotactic body radiation therapy for multiple lung cancers in a patient with six primary cancers: a case report
Authors: Ishida Naoko , Nagata Kenji , Fukuda Jyunki , Oguma Yasuo , Hirashima Tomonori , Minami Kenichi , Nishimura Yasumasa , Matsuo Yukinori
Published: July 2024

Background

Surgery is the standard care for patients with early-stage lung cancer, and stereotactic body radiation therapy is an option for those who are medically inoperable or refuse surgery. Medical developments in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies would prolong prognosis of patients with cancer. The number of patients with multiple cancers has also increased. Duplex primary malignant neoplasms are the most common, and triple or more primary malignant neoplasms were extremely rare. This is the first case of sextuple primary malignant neoplasms with lung cancer.

Case presentation

We report a case of two courses of stereotactic body radiation therapy for an 88-year-old Japanese male patient with six primary cancers in five organs. Cancers were detected in the thyroid, prostate, esophagus, bladder, and lungs. He also had a history of angina pectoris and had undergone percutaneous coronary intervention. Although he was capable of undergoing surgery for lung cancers, he refused it because he had experienced many invasive treatments, such as surgeries and percutaneous coronary intervention. In January 2020, the first stereotactic body radiation therapy was performed for the adenocarcinoma in the right lung. In March 2022, the second stereotactic body radiation therapy was performed for the nodule of the left lung. Although he complained of mild dyspnea after the first stereotactic body radiation therapy, we did not use steroids because his peripheral oxygen saturation was within the normal range. He had pleural effusion, cardiac dilatation, and pericardial effusion 2 months after the second stereotactic body radiation therapy, which improved with the use of compression stockings.

Conclusion

A total of 43 and 17 months have passed since the first and second stereotactic body radiation therapy, respectively, there is no local recurrence and the patient can walk independently. We safely performed stereotactic body radiation therapy twice for our older patient with metachronous early-stage lung cancers. If another new tumor is detected, stereotactic body radiation therapy would be a good treatment option for the functional preservation of organs.
Clinical outcomes and efficacy of HER2-targeted therapy in breast cancer with uncommon in situ hybridization (ISH) patterns or discordant immunohistochemistry (IHC).
Authors: Zhang Qianchen , Freeman Jincong Q. , Zhao Fangyuan , Chen Nan , Nanda Rita , Huo Dezheng , Howard Frederick Matthew
Published: July 2024

604

Background: HER2-targeted therapy (Tx) improves outcomes in HER2+ breast cancer, but efficacy in patients (pts) with discordant IHC/ISH results, or with ASCO/CAP Group 2–4 ISH results (representing mono/polysomy and borderline positivity), remains uncertain. We sought to characterize the epidemiology and response to HER2-directed Tx in these subgroups. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included pts from the National Cancer Database diagnosed in 2013 - 2020. Cases were classified as HER2+, HER2–, discordant ISH/IHC, or HER2+ with ISH Group 2 (HER2/CEP17 ratio ≥ 2, HER2 copy number [CN] < 4), 3 (ratio < 2, CN > 6), or 4 (ratio < 2, CN ≥ 4 and < 6) per the 2023 ASCO/CAP guidelines. In pts receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) with HER2-targeted Tx, odds ratio (OR) for pathologic complete response (pCR) was calculated adjusting for age, comorbidity, stage, and hormone receptor expression, for HER2+ subgroups relative to HER2– cases; pCR rate was also compared between pts who did vs. did not receive HER2-targeted Tx. Adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival (OS) in Stage IV pts was calculated relative to HER2– cases, and as a function of receipt of HER2-targeted Tx. Results: We identified 1,105,890 cases for inclusion (mean age, 62 years; median follow-up, 43 months). Of HER2 IHC 3+ cases with dual probe ISH testing (n=6808), 9.4%, 4.2%, 2.7%, and 8.2% had ISH results classified as ASCO/CAP Group 5 (i.e. discordant negative), 4, 3, and 2, respectively. Of HER2 IHC 0 or 1+ cases with dual probe ISH (n=47,817), 2.4% had discordant positive Group 1 ISH results. Among 148,099 pts receiving NAC, HER2+ and Group 2 IHC 3+ treated with HER2-targeted Tx had higher pCR rates than HER2– cases (Table), with no pCR improvement seen in Group 3/4 ISH or discordant ISH/IHC cases. Few pts in HER2+ subgroups did not receive HER2-directed Tx, but improved pCR with HER2-targeted Tx was seen in HER2+ cases with a trend toward improvement in Group 2 ISH cases. Similarly, OS was superior in Stage IV HER2+ (HR 0.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45 - 0.53) and Group 2/IHC 3+ cases (HR 0.29, 95% CI 0.10 – 0.77) receiving HER2-targeted Tx relative to HER2– cases. Conclusions: HER2+ cases with ASCO/CAP Group 3/4 ISH results, as well as pts with discordant ISH/IHC have inferior outcomes with HER2-targeted Tx, and alternative treatment strategies for these pts incorporating agents approved for HER2– disease should be considered. [Table: see text]
Liposomal irinotecan + 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin + oxaliplatin as a first line treatment for the management of metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A budget impact analysis from a U.S. payer perspective.
Authors: Kim George P. , Holland Theo , Patrick Caity , Lewis Megan , Cockrum Paul , Eddy Alexandra
Published: July 2024

e16339

Background: Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) stands as the predominant pancreatic cancer type, affecting approximately 60,000 individuals in the United States (US) annually and nearly 500,000 globally. The prognosis for mPDAC is poor, with fewer than 20% of diagnosed individuals surviving beyond one year, and just 2.9% surpassing five-years. A phase 3 trial, NAPOLI-3, demonstrated statistically significant improved efficacy outcomes for NALIRIFOX compared with nab-paclitaxel + gemcitabine (Gem-Abraxane) as a first-line (1L) therapy for the treatment of mPDAC. NALIRIFOX showed an overall survival of 11.1 months compared with 9.2 months with Gem-Abraxane, and a significant improvement in progression free survival of 7.4 months compared with 5.6 months. In light of these efficacy outcomes, the objective of this analysis was to estimate the budget impact of adding NALIRIFOX for 1L treatment to a US health plan formulary over a one-year time horizon. Methods: The model estimated the difference in total costs and resource use between a current scenario without NALIRIFOX and a proposed scenario with NALIRIFOX. The eligible population was calculated using published prevalence and incidence data and applied to a hypothetical population plan of 1 million members (includes both commercial and Medicare insurance). NALIRIFOX was compared to the current standard of care (SoC) treatments with the highest market shares; FOLFIRINOX, Gem-Abraxane and Gemcitabine monotherapy, in the first year after marketing authorization. The following costs were included: acquisition, administration, resource monitoring utilization, adverse events (AE) and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF). Baseline characteristics, treatment duration and adverse events for NALIRIFOX and Gem-Abraxane were taken from NAPOLI-3 and published literature for other regimens. Results are presented in terms of the incremental budget impact (BI) and per member per month (PMPM) cost. One-way sensitivity analysis was performed. Results: For a plan of 1 million members, an estimated 132 individuals were eligible for 1L treatment for mPDAC. The PMPM budget impact was < $0.01. NALIRIFOX demonstrated notable cost savings, with reductions of 13.6%, 7.7%, and 1.1% observed in the G-CSF, AEs, and resource monitoring cost categories, respectively. Results were most sensitive to the treatment duration of NALIRIFOX. Conclusions: The model results indicate that the budget impact of NALIRIFOX may be minimal from a US health plan perspective. Given the poor prognosis of mPDAC, NALIRIFOX presents itself as an important new first line treatment option for people living with an aggressive and hard to treat cancer.
A phase I/II study to assess safety and preliminary evidence of a therapeutic effect of azeliragon combined with stereotactic radiation therapy in patients with brain metastases (ADORATION).
Authors: Kotecha Rupesh , Odia Yazmin , Chen Zhijian , Starosciak Amy K. , Rubens Muni , La Rosa Alonso , Herrera Susana , Ramirez Menendez Miguel A. , Pow-Sang Cristina I. , Ramos Suyen , Perez Jennifer , Ahluwalia Manmeet Singh , Mehta Minesh P.
Published: July 2024

TPS2093

Background: The receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) is a multifunctional receptor which stimulates proliferation, invasion, resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and metastatic spread when activated. One of the RAGE ligands preferentially associated with brain metastasis, S100A9, has been recently identified as a specific mediator of radiotherapy resistance. RAGE also mediates neuroinflammatory pathways in the brain associated with peri-tumoral edema and cancer-related cognitive decline. Azeliragon is an oral small molecule agent that crosses the blood-brain barrier and inhibits RAGE interactions with its ligands, including S100A9. Consequently, the purpose of this study is to evaluate a new treatment paradigm with Azeliragon + stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for patients with brain metastasis to evaluate the safety and tolerability of the combined approach with the goal of minimizing the use of peri-procedural corticosteroids (loading dose [LD] and corticosteroid taper [CT]) as well was evaluating the potential radiosensitizing efficacy of this therapeutic combination. Methods: ADORATION is a single center, open-label, phase I/II cohort expansion trial to determine if azeliragon can be substituted for peri-procedural corticosteroids in patients undergoing SRS for brain metastasis. Eligible adults will have a confirmed cancer diagnosis in the last 5 years, a maximum tumor diameter of the largest brain metastasis ≤ 2 cm, and have discontinued corticosteroids at least 5 days prior to SRS. In phase I (n=up to 9), participants are enrolled into sequential cohorts, starting with azeliragon + SRS + LD. Depending on dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) within 28 days of SRS, the next cohort will receive azeliragon + SRS alone or azeliragon + SRS + LD + CT. The phase II expansion cohort (n=up to 40 including the phase I cohort) will subsequently open with a primary endpoint of response rate. Azeliragon dosing includes a loading dose for 6 days followed by a continuous dose for at least 8 weeks, and SRS within 7 days of starting drug. Safety endpoints include number of DLTs and number of CNS treatment-related adverse events. Response endpoints include early brain metastasis response at 8 weeks, intracranial response at 6 and 12 months, and lesion specific local control. Neurocognitive batteries, symptom inventories, and quality-of-life questionnaires will also be administered. Three participants have been enrolled in the starting cohort and are pending DLT assessment. Clinical trial information: NCT05789589 .
Φυσική επαναδραστηριοποίηση ασθενών μετά από αγγειοπλαστική επέμβαση στα στεφανιαία αγγεία λόγω οξέος στεφανιαίου συνδρόμου
Authors: Δερβισοπούλου Ευθυμία
Published: July 2024

Σκοπός: Η παρούσα μελέτη εξετάζει τη σχέση μεταξύ της ικανότητας άσκησης και της ποιότητας ζωής, του άγχους και της κατάθλιψης σε άρρενες ασθενείς που υποβλήθηκαν σε αγγειοπλαστική λόγω εκδήλωσης επεισοδίου οξέος στεφανιαίου συνδρόμου και συμμετείχαν σε πρόγραμμα καρδιακής αποκατάστασης διάρκειας 3 μηνών. Μέθοδος: Συμπεριλήφθηκαν ασθενείς μέσης ηλικίας 53,8±12,2 ετών με οξύ στεφανιαίο σύνδρομο που αντιμετωπίσθηκαν με αγγειοπλαστική. Συνολικά 36 ασθενείς ολοκλήρωσαν τη μελέτη. Οι 18 ολοκλήρωσαν την αξιολόγηση στο τέλος του προγράμματος καρδιακής αποκατάστασης (Ομάδα Α) και οι υπόλοιποι 18 υποβλήθηκαν σε αντίστοιχες μετρήσεις χωρίς να ενταχθούν σε πρόγραμμα αποκατάστασης (Ομάδα Β). Οι ασθενείς της Ομάδας Α ασκήθηκαν ατομικά για 3 μήνες (τρεις φορές την εβδομάδα) με απ’ ευθείας παρακολούθηση και οδηγίες με την διαδικτυακή πλατφόρμα zoom. Η ικανότητα άσκησης [VO2peak(ml/kg/min)] αξιολογήθηκε με καρδιοαναπνευστική δοκιμασία κόπωσης. Οι μεταβλητές που αξιολογήθηκαν στην αρχή και στο τέλος της μελέτης περιλάμβαναν τα αποτελέσματα από τα ερωτηματολόγια της ποιότητας ζωής (HRQoL: SF-36) φυσικό και ψυχικό σκορ συνιστωσών (PCS και MCS), του άγχους (HADS) και της κατάθλιψης (BDI). Αποτελέσματα: Όλα τα αποτελέσματα των μετρήσεων βελτιώθηκαν σημαντικά με την 3μηνη άσκηση στην Ομάδα Α. Βρέθηκαν σημαντικές σχέσεις μεταξύ της VO2peak στην αρχή καθώς και της βελτίωσης της VO2peak και όλων των ψυχοκοινωνικών μεταβλητών αξιολόγησης στην Ομάδα Α στο πέρας της μελέτης (p<0.001). Στην Ομάδα Β δεν διαπιστώθηκαν σημαντικές βελτιώσεις και συσχετίσεις στο τέλος της μελέτης. Συμπεράσματα: Οι βελτιώσεις στην ικανότητα άσκησης στους ασθενείς με οξύ στεφανιαίο σύνδρομο μετά από αγγειοπλαστική, που ακολούθησαν πρόγραμμα γύμνασης μικτού τύπου για 3 μήνες, σχετίζονται σημαντικά με βελτιώσεις στην ποιότητα ζωής και την ψυχική υγεία.
Case Report: Activated B-cell-diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Kalmegh Padmashri , Hande Alka , Gawande Madhuri , Patil Swati , Sonone Archana , Pakhale Aayushi
Published: July 2024

Lymphomas of the oral and oropharyngeal regions are rather uncommon, and diagnosis can be challenging and confusing due to the multiple histological subgroups. Lymphomas are the third most common type of tumor in the head and neck region and are brought on by the lymphoreticular system. The two forms of lymphoma are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Herein, we present a case report of oropharyngeal lymphoma. The female patient reported with a complaint of swelling over the palatal region for two to three months. An ulceroproliferative lesion was evident over the posterior palatal region. We diagnosed reactive lymphadenitis based on an incisional biopsy. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, a punch biopsy followed by immunohistochemical studies were done. Features suggestive of activated B-cell-diffuse large B-cell lymphoma were confirmed. Among malignant lymphomas, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most prevalent variety. Much progress has been made in recent years in understanding the molecular pathophysiology of this disease. In this case report, we aim to correlate the clinical presentation, histology features and immunohistochemical significance in order to promote early discovery, diagnosis, and treatment for a better prognosis of the patient.
The genome sequence of the Smooth Rustic moth, Hoplodrina blanda ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)
Authors: Lees David C. , Sims Ian ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Hoplodrina blanda (the Smooth Rustic; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 464.0 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.49 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,860 protein coding genes.
Predation by the Pebas four-eyed opossums Philander pebas on the toad Rhinella margaritifera in the west Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Negreiros Almeida Marllus Rafael , Lima da Fonseca Wirven , Medeiros Borges Luiz Henrique , Bernarde Paulo Sérgio
Published: July 2024

Las especies de Philander se encuentran en bosques tropicales y subtropicales.  Algunas especies tienen una dieta compuesta por artrópodos, las especies dentro de este género se consideran depredadores oportunistas de vertebrados.  La información sobre la historia natural, ecología y comportamiento de este género aún es escasa.  Aquí presentamos el primer caso documentado de depredación de Rhinella margaritifera por parte de Philander pebas en el bosque de llanura aluvial amazónica.  La observación documentada aquí, se realizó durante trabajos de campo en el Área de Relevante Interesse Ecológico Japiim-Pentecoste, en Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre, Brasil.  Fotografiamos los registros utilizando una cámara con la ayuda de linternas.  Encontramos 1 ejemplar de P. pebas moviéndose a través de lianas y hojas de palma.  Observamos a la zarigüeya con una Rhinella margaritifera firmemente sostenido en su boca.  El sapo estaba agarrado dorsalmente por la parte más ancha de su cabeza y ventralmente por parte de su cuello, abarcando las glándulas parotoides.  Notamos que R. margaritifera en su boca estaba viva y mostraba un comportamiento defensivo conocido como "inflar el cuerpo".  Sorprendentemente, la zarigüeya no mostró signos aparentes de efectos producidos por las toxinas mientras agarraba al sapo cerca de sus glándulas parotoides.  Estos hallazgos desafían las suposiciones convencionales sobre los mecanismos de defensa del sapo contra los depredadores.  Nuestro registro amplía la comprensión de las interacciones depredador-presa y destaca la importancia de realizar más investigaciones para desentrañar la dinámica de estas nuevas interacciones entre zarigüeyas y anfibios venenosos.
New records of jaguar (Panthera onca) in Península Papagayo, Guanacaste Conservation Area, Costa Rica
Authors: Araya-Gamboa Daniela , Pomareda-García Esther , Arroyo-Arce Stephanny , Espinoza-Muñoz Deiver , Araya-Jiménez Yosette , Thomson Ian , Chavez-Ramos Mónica , Salom-Pérez Roberto , Corrales-Gutiérrez Daniel , Fonseca Luis G.
Published: July 2024

Aunque se sabe que los jaguares (Panthera onca) habitan en el Área de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica, existen sectores dentro del área donde no se ha confirmado la presencia de la especie.  Por lo tanto, en la presente nota documentamos los primeros registros de jaguar en Península Papagayo, Área de Conservación Guanacaste.  Entre el periodo comprendido entre febrero y agosto de 2022 se emplearon métodos no invasivos, incluyendo cámaras trampa y extracción de ADN de muestras fecales, para determinar la presencia de la especie en el área de estudio.  Después de 6,093 noches de muestreo, se identificaron 2 individuos adultos de jaguar (macho y hembra).  Asimismo, de 30 muestras fecales colectadas, 4 fueron identificadas como heces de jaguar.  Nuestros hallazgos constituyen la primera evidencia de la presencia del jaguar en Península Papagayo, y a nuestro conocer, constituyen los registros más al sur a lo largo de la costa Pacífica del Área de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Controlling infectious respiratory disease
Authors: Davies Gillian
Published: July 2024

Infectious diseases in horses, such as strangles and equine herpesvirus, can cause outbreaks of disease which spread rapidly between horses. Many of these diseases cause respiratory issues, which are both unpleasant for the horse and in some cases, can be fatal. Prompt action is required to prevent such outbreaks, and limit spread when horses do become infected.
Reproductive behavior of Urostylis annulicornis Scott (Heteroptera, Urostylididae) in the southern Far East of Russia
Authors: MARKOVA TATYANA O. , KANYUKOVA ELENA V. , MASLOV MIKHAIL V.
Published: July 2024

The reproductive behavior of the oak bug Urostylis annulicornis Scott, 1874 was studied for the first time. This species lives in the crown of tall Quercus mongolica Fisch. ex Ledeb. trees making it difficult to access for study and observation. Our study aimed to elucidate the timing of mating and oviposition of U. annulicornis and the effect of temperature variations on the lifespan of adults in natural conditions. Nymphs grown from eggs that had overwintered on rhytidome fragments were placed in stationary netting cages installed on oak saplings, where the bugs were kept until adulthood. The behavior of the control pairs was monitored for 15 hours a day (from 06:00 to 21:00). The duration of an uninterrupted tandem during copulation was confirmed by additional observations at night. To facilitate egg-laying, artificial shelters were created from pieces of oak bark stacked together, attached to the stem of the plant, and placed inside cages. The number of eggs laid by the female was counted and photographed. The process of oviposition by a female on the oak tree bark in natural conditions was recorded and documented for the first time. This study of the biology of U. annulicornis, from oviposition through the sequence of postembryonic development, documenting all stages of metamorphosis, was carried out on a single plant. A summer reproductive diapause was observed in the seasonal cycle of the species. The timing of mating in U. annulicornis was shifted to autumn, the laying of overwintering eggs occurred in October, as night temperatures decreased. Males were observed performing postcopulatory mate-guarding. The effect of night cold spells on the lifespan of bugs was recorded: natural mortality of adults occurred when the night temperatures dropped below zero.
Academic and Conversational Genre: Revisionist Visions of Anti-Racist Rhetoric in Claudia Rankine’s Just Us
Authors: Naydan Liliana M.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article explores the rhetorical effects of academic writing and conversation in Claudia Rankine’s Just Us . It argues that Rankine’s multimodal and multi-genre text functions as a metacognitive commentary on the problems and possibilities of structure in textual and social senses of the term. Through her revisions of textual genre conventions such as academic annotations and through her attention to rhetorical, textual, and social conventions such as interruptions and questions, Rankine critiques the sociocultural invisibility of whiteness and structural racism and puts a premium on revision as re-seeing, ultimately inviting her readers to re-envision and engage in antiracism in contemporary US life.
Landscape in Translation: Anne Grant and the Highlands
Authors: Perkins Pam
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This essay examines the ways in which the poet and essayist Anne Grant understood her role as a translator from Gaelic. While Grant did not learn Gaelic until she was an adult—and the extent of her command of the language has been questioned by readers and scholars both in her own time and since—Grant herself argued strongly that a knowledge of Gaelic was requisite to a full appreciation of Highland landscape. In part, as this paper argues, she saw her own poetic work as an attempt to 'translate' that landscape for English readers.
2023 JOSA B Emerging Researcher Best Paper Prize: editorial
Authors: Busch Kurt
Published: July 2024

JOSA B Editor-in-Chief Kurt Busch and the members of the 2023 Emerging Researcher Best Paper Prize Committee announce the recipient of the 2023 prize.
Photographic grading to evaluate facial cleanliness and trachoma among children in Amhara region, Ethiopia
Authors: Caleon Ramoncito L. , Admassu Fisseha , Aragie Solomon , Hailu Dagnachew , Dagnew Adane , Zeru Taye , Wittberg Dionna M. , Thompson Isabel J. B. , Abdu Seid , Beyecha Social , Birhanu Tibebe , Getachew Habib , Getnet Banchalam , Kabtu Endale , Shibiru Meskerem , Tekew Solomon , Wondimteka Bilen , Lietman Thomas M. , Nash Scott D. , Freeman Matthew C. , Keenan Jeremy D.
Published: July 2024

Background

Promotion of facial cleanliness is recommended for the elimination of blinding trachoma, largely because of observational studies that have found an association between various measures of facial uncleanliness and trachoma. However, when a field grader assesses both facial cleanliness and trachoma, associations may be biased. Assessment of photographs of the face and conjunctiva by masked graders may provide a less biased estimate of the relationship between facial cleanliness and trachoma.

Methods

Face photographs, conjunctival photographs, and conjunctival swabs were obtained on a random sample of 0–9-year-old children from each of 40 communities in Amhara region, Ethiopia. Face photographs were assessed for the presence of seven measures of an unclean face (i.e., wet nasal discharge, dry nasal discharge, wet ocular discharge, dry ocular discharge, food, dust/dirt, and flies) by three independent masked photo-graders. Conjunctival photographs were similarly graded in a masked fashion for signs of clinically active trachoma. Conjunctival swabs were processed for Chlamydia trachomatis DNA.

Results

Of 2073 children with complete data, 808 (39%) had evidence of clinically active trachoma, 150 (7%) had evidence of ocular chlamydia infection, and 2524 (91%) had at least one measure of an unclean face. Dry ocular discharge had the strongest association with clinically active trachoma (age- and sex-adjusted prevalence ratio [PR] 1.4, 95% CI 1.2–1.6) and ocular chlamydia infection (PR 1.9, 95%CI 1.3–2.9), although significant associations were observed between each of the measures of facial uncleanliness and trachoma.

Conclusions

Masked assessment of face and conjunctival photographs confirmed prior observational studies that have noted associations between various measures of facial uncleanliness and trachoma. The causal relationship between facial uncleanliness and trachoma is unclear since many features used to measure facial cleanliness (e.g., ocular discharge, nasal discharge, and flies) could be consequences of antecedent ocular chlamydia infection.

Trial registration

NCT02754583, clinicaltrials.gov.
Revealing the dynamic whole transcriptome landscape of Clonorchis sinensis: Insights into the regulatory roles of noncoding RNAs and microtubule-related genes in development
Authors: Qiu Yangyuan , Wang Cunzhou , Wang Jing , L. V. Qingbo , Sun Lulu , Yang Yaming , Liu Mingyuan , Liu Xiaolei , Li Chen , Tang Bin
Published: July 2024

Clonorchis sinensis is a significant zoonotic food-borne parasite that causes a range of hepatobiliary diseases, which in severe cases can even lead to cholangiocarcinoma. To explore new diagnostic and treatment strategies, the dynamic RNA regulatory processes across different developmental stages of C. sinensis were analyzed by using whole-transcriptome sequencing. The chromosomal-level genome of C. sinensis was used for sequence alignment and annotation. In this study, we identified a total of 59,103 RNAs in the whole genome, including 2,384 miRNAs, 25,459 mRNAs, 27,564 lncRNAs and 3,696 circRNAs. Differential expression analysis identified 6,556 differentially expressed mRNAs, 2,231 lncRNAs, 877 miRNAs and 20 circRNAs at different developmental stages. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted the critical role of microtubule-related biological processes in the growth and development of C. sinensis. And coexpression analysis revealed 97 lncRNAs and 85 circRNAs that were coexpressed with 42 differentially expressed mRNAs that associated with microtubules at different developmental stages of C. sinensis. The expression of the microtubule-related genes dynein light chain 2 (DLC2) and dynein light chain 4 (DLC4) increased with C. sinensis development, and DLC2/4 could be inhibited by albendazole. Finally, by constructing competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks, the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory relationships were constructed, and the ceRNA networks of MSTRG.14258.5-novel_miR_2287-newGene_28215 and MSTRG.14258.5-novel_miR_2216-CSKR_109340 were verified. This study suggests, through whole transcriptome sequencing, that the context of microtubule regulation may play an essential role in the development and growth of C. sinensis.
Multigene phylogeny and morphological descriptions of five species of Agaricus sect. Minores from subtropical climate zones of Pakistan
Authors: Bashir Hira , Asif Muhammad , Ghafoor Aneeqa , Niazi Abdul Rehman , Khalid Abdul Nasir , Parveen Gulnaz , Harun Nidaa , Afshan Najam-ul-Sehar , Bibi Ayesha , Callac Philippe
Published: July 2024

The genus Agaricus includes more than 500 species mostly containing the edible and cultivated species worldwide. As part of the ongoing studies on the biodiversity of genus Agaricus in Pakistan, our objective was to focus on A. sect. Minores which is the largest section of the genus. In the first phylogenetic analyses based on the ITS region of the nuclear ribosomal DNA, our sample included specimens of 97 named species, 27 unnamed species, and 31 specimens (29 newly generated sequences in this study) from subtropical climate zones of Pakistan that likely belong to this section based on their morphology. The 31 specimens grouped into five distinct, well-supported clades corresponding to five species: A. glabriusculus already known from Pakistan and India, A. robustulus first recorded from Pakistan and briefly described here but already known from Bénin, Malaysia, China, and Thailand, and three possibly endemic new species described in detail A. badiosquamulosus sp. nov., A. dunensis sp. nov., and A. violaceopunctatus sp. nov. The sixth species currently known in Pakistan, including A. latiumbonatus also found in Thailand, were included in a multigene tree based on ITS, LSU, and Tef-1α sequence data. They all belong to a large pantropical paraphyletic group while most temperate species belong to a distinct clade, which includes about half of the species of the section. The current study aims to propose three novel species of genus Agaricus based on comprehensive morphological as well as molecular phylogenetic evidences from Pakistan.
Cognitive-behavioral statuses in depression and internet gaming disorder of adolescents: A transdiagnostic approach
Authors: She Rui , Lin Jiaxi , Wong Kei Man , Yang Xue
Published: July 2024

To investigate the comorbidity of adolescent depression and Internet gaming disorder (IGD) and their shared and unique cognitive-behavioral factors (i.e., self-esteem, dysfunctional attitudes, hopelessness, and coping), a large-scale school-based survey was conducted among 3147 Chinese secondary school students in Hong Kong. Probable depression and IGD were screened using the Centre for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale and DSM-5 IGD checklist, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to identify the associations between different condition statuses and cognitive-behavioral factors. Four groups were identified, including comorbidity group (having probable depression and IGD), IGD group (having probable IGD alone), depression group (probable depression alone), and healthy group (neither condition). Comorbidity group showed the worst cognitive-behavioral statuses, followed by depression group and then IGD group. Compared with healthy group, those with lower self-esteem and higher hopelessness and dysfunctional attitudes were more likely to be classified into depression group and comorbidity group, while maladaptive coping was positively associated with all three disorder groups. The results suggest that depression and IGD may share common cognitive-behavioral mechanisms (e.g., maladaptive coping) but also own their uniqueness regarding specific factors (e.g., hopelessness and self-esteem). A transdiagnostic intervention approach targeting the common factors may effectively address the comorbidity.