bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saltatory conduction and intrinsic electrophysiological properties at the nodes of ranvier of Aα/β-afferent fibers and Aα-efferent fibers in rat sciatic nerves
Authors: Tonomura Sotatsu , Gu Jianguo G
Published: June 2023

Large-diameter myelinated fibers in sciatic nerves are composed of both Aα/β-afferent fibers and Aα-efferent fibers to convey sensory and motor impulses, respectively, via saltatory conduction for rapid leg responses. Saltatory conduction and electrophysiological properties at the nodes of Ranvier (NRs) of these sciatic nerve fibers have not been directly studied. We used ex vivo sciatic nerve preparations from rats and applied patch-clamp recordings at the NRs of both Aα/β-afferent fibers and Aα-efferent fibers in the sciatic nerves to characterize their saltatory conduction and intrinsic electrophysiological properties. The velocity and frequency of saltatory conduction in both types of fibers were similar. Resting membrane potentials (RMPs), input resistance, action potential (AP) threshold, and AP rheobase were also not significantly different at the NRs of the two types of fibers in the sciatic nerves. In comparison with Aα/β-afferent fibers, Aα-efferent fibers in the sciatic nerves show higher amplitude and broader width of APs at their NRs. At the NRs of both types of fibers, depolarizing voltages evoked transient inward currents followed by non-inactivating outward currents, and the inward currents and non-inactivating outward currents at the NRs were not significantly different between the two types of fibers. Using AP-clamp, inward currents during AP upstroke were found to be insignificant difference, but amplitudes of non-inactivating outward currents during AP repolarization were significantly lower at the NRs of Aα-efferent fibers than at the NRs of Aα/β-afferent fibers in the sciatic nerves. Collectively, saltatory conduction, ionic currents, and intrinsic electrophysiological properties at the NRs of Aα/β-afferent fibers and Aα-efferent fibers in the sciatic nerves are generally similar, but some differences were also observed.
Macro periodisation of competition in international women's tennis: Insights for long-term athlete development
Authors: Perri Thomas , Duffield Rob , Murphy Alistair , Mabon Tom , McGillivray Isabel , Reid Machar
Published: June 2023

Aims

This study reports the multi-year periodised international competition engagement of elite top 100 [T100] and 250 [T250] female tennis players during their youth.

Methods

Tournament data was analysed for 258 female players from 13 to 18 years of age. Players were categorised into groups based on peak professional ranking of T100 or T250. ‘Fast’ or ‘slow’ achieving T100 players were further classified according to the years taken to achieve a professional T100 status. International tournament and match volumes were quantified for junior and professional categories, along with measures of competition density (i.e., time between tournaments and consecutive tournaments). Tournament quality and category were determined by ranking point offerings. A two-way analysis of variance determined the effects of age and ranking group on tournament play.

Results

Significant interaction effects for age and ranking group were observed for all junior and professional category tournaments ( p < .05). Significantly higher annual junior tournament volumes featured in the schedules of T100 at ages 14 and 15 ( p < .05) while participation in annual professional tournaments increased for all players at ages 17 and 18 ( p < .05). The top 100 players played more annual matches than the T250 group at 14–16 years ( p < .05). Significant main effects for age revealed decreased days between tournaments and increased consecutive tournaments at 15 years ( p < .05).

Conclusions

Increased volume and density of tournament-play exist from 14 years professional female tennis players. Faster achieving T100 players contest higher-quality junior and professional tournaments at earlier ages. These distinctive tournament characteristics can underpin training and competition scheduling recommendations used by national tennis federations.
Cognition Uniquely Influences Dual-Task Tandem Gait Performance Among Athletes With a Concussion History
Authors: Shumski Eric J. , Schmidt Julianne D. , Lynall Robert C.
Published: June 2023

Background:

After a concussion, there are unique associations between static balance and landing with cognition. Previous research has explored these unique correlations, but the factor of time, dual-task, and different motor tasks leave gaps within the literature. The purpose of this study was to determine the associations between cognition and tandem gait performance.

Hypothesis:

We hypothesized that athletes with a concussion history would display stronger associations compared with athletes without a concussion history between cognition and tandem gait.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

A total of 126 athletes without (56.3% female; age, 18.8 ± 1.3 years; height, 176.7 ± 12.3 cm; mass, 74.8 ± 19.0 kg) and 42 athletes with (40.5% female; age, 18.8 ± 1.3 years; height, 179.3 ± 11.9 cm; mass, 81.0 ± 25.1 kg) concussion history participated. Cognitive performance was assessed with CNS Vital Signs. Tandem gait was performed on a 3-meter walkway. Dual-task tandem gait included a concurrent cognitive task of serial subtraction, reciting months backward, or spelling words backward.

Results:

Athletes with a concussion history exhibited a larger number of significant correlations compared with athletes without a concussion history for cognition and dual-task gait time (4 significant correlations: rho-range, -0.377 to 0.358 vs 2 significant correlations: rho, -0.233 to 0.179) and dual-task cost gait time (4 correlations: rho range, -0.344 to 0.392 vs 1 correlation: rho, -0.315). The time between concussion and testing did significantly moderate any associations ( P = 0.11-0.63). Athletes with a concussion history displayed better dual-task cost response rate ( P = 0.01). There were no other group differences for any cognitive ( P = 0.13-0.97) or tandem gait ( P = 0.20-0.92) outcomes.

Conclusion:

Athletes with a concussion history display unique correlations between tandem gait and cognition. These correlations are unaffected by the time since concussion.

Clinical Relevance:

These unique correlations may represent shared neural resources between cognition and movement that are only present for athletes with a concussion history. Time does not influence these outcomes, indicating the moderating effect of concussion on the correlations persists long-term after the initial injury.
High-Level Competitive Athletes Who Undergo Hip Arthroscopy Demonstrate Durable 5-Year Outcomes and Lower Subjective Pain: A Propensity-Matched Analysis
Authors: Fenn Thomas W. , Horner Nolan S. , Ingawa H. Sadiyya , Hevesi Mario , Beals Corey , Nho Shane J.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Hip arthroscopy (HA) has been proven to be an effective treatment for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) in both competitive athletes (CA) and non-CA at short-term follow-up. However, there is a paucity of literature investigating midterm outcomes comparing athletes with Controls.

Hypothesis:

Athletes would have significant improvements at 5 years, with favorable outcomes compared with their control counterparts, and high return-to-sport (RTS) rate.

Study Design:

Propensity-matched retrospective comparative cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

CAs who underwent primary HA for FAIS from January 1, 2012 to April 30, 2017 were identified and propensity matched on a 1:4 basis to Controls by age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were collected preoperatively and at 5 years. Minimal clinically important differences (MCID) and patient acceptable symptom states (PASS) rates were calculated using previously published thresholds. Rate and duration of RTS were collected retrospectively.

Results:

A total of 57 high-level CA (33 female, 24 male; age, 21.7 ± 4.2 years; BMI, 23.1 ± 2.8 kg/m2) were propensity matched to 228 Controls (132 female, 96 male; P > 0.99; age, 23.3 ± 5.8 years; P = 0.02; BMI, 23.8 ± 4.3 kg/m2, P = 0.24). Significant differences were observed in preoperative Hip Outcome Score Sports Specific and Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL) subscales (CA, 74.9 ± 13.7 vs Controls, 66.4 ± 18.4; P = 0.01) and modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) (CA, 64.7 ± 12.9 vs Controls, 59.7 ± 14.3; P = 0.04). Both groups demonstrated significant postoperative improvements in all outcome scores measured ( P ≤ 0.01). At 5 years postoperatively, there were significant differences between groups in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) Pain (CA, 17.3 ± 17.6 vs Controls, 24.7 ± 25.9; P = 0.02). There were no significant differences in achieving MCID or PASS. Athletes RTS at a median of 25.2 weeks (Q1 22.4-Q3 30.7) with an overall RTS rate of 90%. Similar rates of revision were seen between CA patients (n = 3; 5.3%) and Control patients (n = 9; 3.9%) ( P = 0.66).

Conclusion:

CAs demonstrated significant and durable improvements in PROs as well as high MCID and PASS achievement rates after primary HA, which were comparable with those of Controls. Clinicians should be aware that CA patients demonstrate higher preoperative mHHS and HOS-ADL scores than Controls and achieve lower average self-reported pain at 5 years postoperatively. In addition, CA patients demonstrate high rates of RTS at a median of 25 weeks postoperatively.

Clinical Relevance:

This study provides insight into CA versus Control PROs and rates of achieving MCID and PASS at a midterm follow-up of 5 years. Furthermore, this study offers perception into RTS rate, both in general as well as specified to individualized sports.
North American Weight Management Programs for People Living With Chronic Kidney Disease: An Environmental Scan
Authors: Hamadi Amani , Clemens Kristin K. , Ernst Jaclyn , Attalla David , Moist Louise
Published: June 2023

Background:

The availability and accessibility of patient-centered weight management programs is critical to mitigate the increasing prevalence of obesity in people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Little is known about the availability of contemporary programs that can safely and effectively support individuals living with obesity and CKD across North America.

Objective:

We sought to identify weight management programs specific to those with CKD and explore their safety, affordability, and adaptability to this patient population. We also identified the barriers and facilitators of identified programming including their accessibility to real-world patients (eg, cost, access, support, and time).

Design:

Environmental scan of weight management programs.

Setting:

North America.

Patient:

People living with CKD.

Methods:

We identified weight management programs and associated barriers and facilitators, via an Internet-based search of commercial, community-based, and medically supervised weight management programming. We also conducted a gray literature search and contacted weight management experts and program facilitators to explore strategies as well as their barriers and facilitators.

Results:

We identified 40 weight management programs available to people living with CKD across North America. Programs were commercial (n = 7), community-based (n = 9), and medically supervised (Canada n = 13, U.S n = 8) in origin. Three programs were specifically tailored to CKD (n = 3). In addition to formal programs, we also identified online nutritional resources and guidelines for weight loss in CKD (n = 8), and additional strategies (self-management tools, group orientated programs, moderate energy restrictions in conjunction with exercise and Orlistat) for weight loss from the gray literature (n = 3). Most common barriers were difficulty accessing some of the suggested nutritious food options due to the high cost, lack of support from family, friends and health practitioners, the time commitment required to participate, and the exclusion from weight management programs due to unique dietary needs for the CKD population. Most common facilitators were programs that were patient-centered, evidence-based, and offered both group and individual formats.

Limitations:

Although our search criteria were broad, it is possible that we did not capture all weight management programs available across North America.

Conclusions:

This environmental scan has generated a resource list of existing safe and effective programs for or adaptable to people with CKD. This information will inform future efforts to develop and deliver CKD-specific weight management programs to patients living with comorbid disease. Engaging people living with CKD to understand the acceptability of these programs, is an important focus for future research.
Adherence to unsupervised exercise in sedentary individuals: A randomised feasibility trial of two mobile health interventions
Authors: Bannell Daniel J , France-Ratcliffe Madeleine , Buckley Benjamin James Roy , Crozier Anthony , Davies Andrew P , Hesketh Katie L. , Jones Helen , Cocks Matthew , Sprung Victoria S ,   on behalf of the MOTIVATE Team
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Adherence to unsupervised exercise is poor, yet unsupervised exercise interventions are utilised in most healthcare settings. Thus, investigating novel ways to enhance adherence to unsupervised exercise is essential. This study aimed to examine the feasibility of two mobile health (mHealth) technology–supported exercise and physical activity (PA) interventions to increase adherence to unsupervised exercise.

Methods

Eighty-six participants were randomised to online resources ( n =  44, females n =  29) or MOTIVATE ( n =  42, females n =  28). The online resources group had access to booklets and videos to assist in performing a progressive exercise programme. MOTIVATE participants received exercise counselling sessions supported via mHealth biometrics which allowed instant participant feedback on exercise intensity, and communication with an exercise specialist. Heart rate (HR) monitoring, survey-reported exercise behaviour and accelerometer-derived PA were used to quantify adherence. Remote measurement techniques were used to assess anthropometrics, blood pressure, HbA1c and lipid profiles.

Results

HR–derived adherence rates were 22  ±  34% and 113  ±  68% in the online resources and MOTIVATE groups, respectively. Self-reported exercise behaviour demonstrated moderate (Cohen's d =  0.63, CI  =  0.27 to 0.99) and large effects (Cohen's d =  0.88, CI  =  0.49 to 1.26) in favour of online resources and MOTIVATE groups, respectively. When dropouts were included, 84% of remotely gathered data were available, with dropouts removed data availability was 94%.

Conclusion

Data suggest both interventions have a positive impact on adherence to unsupervised exercise but MOTIVATE enables participants to meet recommended exercise guidelines. Nevertheless, to maximise adherence to unsupervised exercise, future appropriately powered trials should explore the effectiveness of the MOTIVATE intervention.
Developing a mixed-methods digital Multiple Sorting Task procedure using Zoom and Miro
Authors: Jing Jing , Canter David
Published: June 2023

In the Multiple Sorting Task (MST) participants sort entities into their self-defined categories. The descriptions they provide of their categories provide qualitative data. Multi-dimensional scaling of sorting generates quantitative results. Relating the qualitative descriptions to the quantitative output creates integrated mixed methods. As part of the study of conceptions of public space an online MST was developed using Zoom and Miro, supported by Email and Smartphone where necessary. Twenty adult participants performed the MST with 20 pictures of public spaces in Stockholm. Results demonstrate the viability of the novel digital MST. The MST’s benefits, challenges, and applications in its digital form as an integrated mixed-methods are presented.
Deep infiltrating endometriosis with mucinous metaplasia of mullerian origin
Authors: Arkfeld Christopher , Gelissen Julia , Upadhyay Animesh , Altwerger Gary
Published: June 2023

Background:

Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition that often presents with pelvic pain and infertility, but in rare cases may masquerade as a gastrointestinal or gynecologic malignancy.

Case:

A 49-year-old G0 presented with abdominal pain, fevers, elevated tumor markers, and a large adnexal mass concerning for malignancy. Intra-operatively, mucinous lesions diffusely involved abdominopelvic structures. Intra-operative frozen section (IOFS) revealed invasive cancer and full cytoreductive surgery was completed. Final pathology was downgraded to atypical cystic endometriosis with mucinous metaplasia.

Conclusion:

Endometriosis, a nonmalignant condition, can present as pelvic masses associated with elevated tumor markers. The case presented here depicts a confounding preoperative and intraoperative picture where endometriosis was falsely identified as malignancy. Endometriosis should always remain a part of the differential diagnosis in a premenopausal patient with presumed gastrointestinal or gynecologic malignancies.
Diagnosis, pelvic pain, and medication mediate cognitive empathic abilities among women with endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Dinsdale Natalie L , Chizen Donna R , Crespi Bernard J
Published: June 2023

Objective:

Investigate how women with self-reported endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or no known reproductive disease perform on the Reading the Mind in the Eyes task, a metric of social cognitive empathic abilities, and how these scores are mediated by self-reported pelvic pain, depression levels, and medication use.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Setting:

Online survey.

Population:

Saskatchewan; mixed ethnicities.

Methods:

Participants ( n = 342) completed surveys on diagnoses of endometriosis and PCOS, levels of pelvic pain, medications, depression, and cognitive empathy (the Reading the Mind in the Eyes task, RMET).

Results:

Women with endometriosis showed lower scores on the RMET, compared to unaffected women and women with PCOS. However, among women with endometriosis, higher levels of pelvic pain and higher scores on an index of depression were associated with enhanced RMET performance. Among women with PCOS, medication with spironolactone, an androgen receptor antagonist, was associated with higher RMET scores, compared to women with PCOS who were not medicated or who were taking different medications.

Conclusions:

Symptoms (including pelvic pain), hormonal correlates, and some treatments of PCOS and endometriosis mediated variation in cognitive empathy.
Incidence of Early Adverse Events After Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy
Authors: Yalcin Sercan , Seals Karrington , McLaughlin William , Fulkerson John P. , Farrow Lutul D.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) is a commonly utilized surgical procedure for the treatment of patellofemoral instability. Although midterm and long-term outcomes are known, perioperative complications have not been consistently reported.

Purpose:

To identify the incidence and predictors of adverse events in the first 90-day perioperative period after TTO.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Patients undergoing primary TTO between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2019, were included. Readmissions in the first 90 days after surgery were collected, and data were collected for the following variables: age, sex, smoking status, body mass index, laterality, preoperative diagnosis, presence of trochlear dysplasia, tourniquet use, TTO procedure, tibial tubercle distalization, trochleoplasty, chondral procedure, number of screws, and use of an epidural catheter. Predictors of readmission for any reason were identified using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 345 TTO procedures were included in the final analysis. The incidence of readmissions for any reason was 20.6% (71/345). The most common reason for readmission was postoperative pain (26/345 [7.5%]), followed by wound complications (19/345 [5.5%]) and epidural catheter–related complications (overall: 16/345 [4.6%]; specific: 16/167 [9.6%]. The incidence of major complications was 2.0% (7/345). The number of patients with each major complication was as follows: 1 for deep vein thrombosis, 2 for pulmonary embolism, 1 for septic arthritis, 1 for tibial tubercle fracture, and 2 for loss of fixation. Female sex and smoking were associated with readmission for pain.

Conclusion:

The incidence of major complications after TTO was very low (2.0%), but 20.6% of cases required readmission, primarily for an indwelling epidural catheter (3.5%) and postoperative pain (7.5%). Concomitant soft tissue procedures and the number of screws were associated with readmission after TTO. Utilizing individualized postoperative pain management and preoperative discussions about expected pain may help to avoid readmission for pain after TTO.
“Please keep on beating”—Participation in a Creative Workshop Offers Unexpected Benefits to Women With Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wray Jo , Layton Sofie , Vaccarella Maria , Bucciarelli-Ducci Chiara , Biglino Giovanni
Published: June 2023

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) or “broken heart syndrome” is a rare condition that is more common in women than men, particularly those who are postmenopausal. It mimics a myocardial infarction and psychological factors have been implicated in its etiology as well as being consequences of its presentation. As part of a public engagement project we brought together 8 women (of 12 invited) previously diagnosed with TCM to facilitate a discussion, through participation in a creative workshop-based process, about their illness experience, how they made sense of it, and the meaning it had for them in their lives, and to identify areas of unmet need. Through a range of creative activities we identified that participants had high levels of unmet need in terms of information and psychosocial support. All participants enjoyed the creative process and meeting other people with a diagnosis of TCM. The workshop overall was perceived as empowering. Exploring patient narratives during artist-facilitated workshops is one approach for providing the first steps to addressing unmet need, although the importance of ensuring psychological safety cannot be over-stated.
The Role of Immersive Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Medical Communication: A Scoping Review
Authors: Aliwi Ibrahim , Schot Vico , Carrabba Michele , Duong Phuoc , Shievano Silvia , Caputo Massimo , Wray Jo , de Vecchi Adelaide , Biglino Giovanni
Published: June 2023

Communication between clinicians and patients and communication within clinical teams is widely recognized as a tool through which improved patient outcomes can be achieved. As emerging technologies, there is a notable lack of commentary on the role of immersive virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in enhancing medical communication. This scoping review aims to map the current landscape of literature on this topic and highlights gaps in the evidence to inform future endeavors. A comprehensive search strategy was conducted across 3 databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase), yielding 1000 articles, of which 623 were individually screened for relevance. Ultimately, 22 articles were selected for inclusion and review. Similarities across the cohort of studies included small sample sizes, observational study design, use of questionnaires, and more VR studies than AR. The majority of studies found these technologies to improve medical communication, although user tolerability limitations were identified. More studies are required, presenting more robust findings, in order to draw more definitive conclusions and stronger recommendations for use of immersive VR/AR in clinical environments.
Productivity Versus Sustainability: A Tale of Two Authors’ Engagement in Participatory Culture
Authors: Hagge Julia
Published: June 2023

Although participatory culture promotes productive engagement in online spaces, members may respond in ways that constrain digital composition practices. This article provides theoretical and contextual background regarding a shift toward digital media production and programming-as-writing for youth. In addition, I describe the intersecting of computational thinking, computational participation, and participatory culture within Scratch, an online programming community. Findings from a descriptive case study focused on early adolescents as they engaged in digital media composition within an online programming community called Scratch are examined. Specifically, I discuss the contrast in the digital composition experiences of two participants as they leveraged participatory culture in the creation of digital media. This research highlights assumptions made regarding participatory cultures and the need to consider how to foster productive and sustainable digital literacy practices for youth in participatory cultures.
A pedagogy of vulnerability: Its relevance to diversity teaching and ‘humanising’ higher education
Authors: Christodoulidi Fevronia
Published: June 2023

This paper attempts to unpack and propose an alternative to a frequent resistance towards generating discussion and exploration of uncomfortable or controversial topics within university teaching, in conjunction with encouraging academics to experiment with modelling authentic and courageous dialogues when addressing topics focussing on diversity, difference and intersectionality in the classroom. It presents reflections on adopting a ‘pedagogy of vulnerability’ in teaching and learning within higher education which dismantles the hierarchical dynamics of power between educators and learners. Via cultivating a co-learner stance for pursuing knowledge and wisdom, an activist motivation towards addressing matters of identity and social justice emerges. The qualities and practices of the vulnerable educator are described alongside their positive impact upon student participation, empowerment and engagement without ignoring the challenges and pitfalls of such approach in the context of institutional politics. Using the example of its application within teaching a counselling and psychotherapy degree at a university setting, it concludes with insights and a vision for its role in serving a more humane and relational higher education and an invitation for considering such a pedagogic approach in the context of different disciplines.
Dose-related adaptive reconstruction of DMN in isoflurane administration: a study in the rat
Authors: Guo Fengru , Li Yuqin , Jian Zhaoxin , Cui Yan , Gong Wenhui , Li Airui , Jing Wei , Xu Peng , Chen Ke , Guo Daqing , Yao Dezhong , Xia Yang
Published: June 2023

Background

The anesthetic states are accompanied by functional alterations. However, the dose-related adaptive alterations in the higher-order network under anesthesia, e. g. default mode network (DMN), are poorly revealed.

Methods

We implanted electrodes in brain regions of the rat DMN to acquire local field potentials to investigate the perturbations produced by anesthesia. Relative power spectral density, static functional connectivity (FC), fuzzy entropy of dynamic FC, and topological features were computed from the data.

Results

The results showed that adaptive reconstruction was induced by isoflurane, exhibiting reduced static and stable long-range FC, and altered topological features. These reconstruction patterns were in a dose-related fashion.

Conclusion

These results might impart insights into the neural network mechanisms underlying anesthesia and suggest the potential of monitoring the depth of anesthesia based on the parameters of DMN.
Integrated bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation reveal ISG20 as a novel prognostic indicator expressed on M2 macrophage in glioma
Authors: Peng Yaojun , Liu Hongyu , Wu Qiyan , Wang Lingxiong , Yu Yanju , Yin Fan , Feng Cong , Ren Xuewen , Liu Tianyi , Chen Ling , Zhu Haiyan
Published: June 2023

Background

Glioma is the most common malignant primary brain tumor and is characterized by a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. ISG20 expression is induced by interferons or double-stranded RNA and is associated with poor prognosis in several malignant tumors. Nevertheless, the expression of ISG20 in gliomas, its impact on patient prognosis, and its role in the tumor immune microenvironment have not been fully elucidated.

Methods

Using bioinformatics, we comprehensively illustrated the potential function of ISG20, its predictive value in stratifying clinical prognosis, and its association with immunological characteristics in gliomas. We also confirmed the expression pattern of ISG20 in glioma patient samples by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

ISG20 mRNA expression was higher in glioma tissues than in normal tissues. Data-driven results showed that a high level of ISG20 expression predicted an unfavorable clinical outcome in glioma patients, and revealed that ISG20 was possibly expressed on tumor-associated macrophages and was significantly associated with immune regulatory processes, as evidenced by its positive correlation with the infiltration of regulatory immune cells (e.g., M2 macrophages and regulatory T cells), expression of immune checkpoint molecules, and effectiveness of immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry staining confirmed the enhanced expression of ISG20 in glioma tissues with a higher WHO grade, and immunofluorescence assay verified its cellular localization on M2 macrophages.

Conclusions

ISG20 is expressed on M2 macrophages, and can serve as a novel indicator for predicting the malignant phenotype and clinical prognosis in glioma patients.
Upregulation of dihydropyrimidinase-like 3 (DPYSL3) protein predicts poor prognosis in urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Liang Peir-In , Lai Hong-Yue , Chan Ti-Chun , Li Wei-Ming , Hsing Chung-Hsi , Huang Steven K. , Hsieh Kun-Lin , Tseng Wen-Hsin , Chen Tzu-Ju , Li Wan-Shan , Chen Huan-Da , Kuo Yu-Hsuan , Li Chien-Feng
Published: June 2023

Background

Dihydropyrimidinase-like 3 (DPYSL3) is a cytosolic phosphoprotein expressed in the nervous system and is crucial for neurogenesis. A previous study showed that increased DPYSL3 expression promotes tumour aggressiveness in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, gastric cancer, and colon cancer. However, the role of DPYSL3 in affecting the biological behaviour of urothelial carcinoma (UC) is not yet understood.

Methods

A UC transcriptomic dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus and the Urothelial Bladder Cancer (BLCA) dataset from The Cancer Genome Atlas were used for the in silico study. We collected 340 upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) and 295 urinary bladder urothelial carcinoma (UBUC) samples for the immunohistochemical study. Fresh tumour tissue from 50 patients was used to examine the DPYSL3 mRNA level. In addition, urothelial cell lines with and without DPYSL3 knockdown were used for the functional study.

Results

The in silico study revealed that DPYSL3 correlated with advanced tumour stage and metastasis development while functioning primarily in the nucleobase-containing compound metabolic process (GO:0006139). DPYSL3 mRNA expression is significantly upregulated in advanced UC. Furthermore, overexpression of the DPYSL3 protein is significantly associated with the aggressive behaviour of UTUC and UBUC. DPYSL3 expression independently predicts disease-specific survival (DSS) and metastatic-free survival (MFS) in patients with UC. In non-muscle-invasive UBUC, DPYSL3 expression predicts local recurrence-free survival. UC cell lines with DPYSL3 knockdown exhibited decreased proliferation, migration, invasion, and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) tube formation but increased apoptosis and G1 arrest. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed that the enriched processes related to DPYSL3 overexpression in UC were tissue morphogenesis, cell mesenchyme migration, smooth muscle regulation, metabolic processes, and RNA processing. In vivo study revealed DPYSL3 knockdown in UC tumours significantly suppressed the growth of tumours and decreased MYC and GLUT1 protein expression.

Conclusions

DPYSL3 promotes the aggressiveness of UC cells by changing their biological behaviours and is likely associated with cytoskeletal and metabolic process modifications. Furthermore, DPYSL3 protein overexpression in UC was associated with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics and independently predicted poor clinical outcomes. Therefore, DPYSL3 can be used as a novel therapeutic target for UC.
Surveillance of pesticide poisoning in an East and a West Malaysian hospital: characteristics of pesticide poisoning and the early impact of a national Paraquat ban
Authors: Chan Lai Fong , Chin Song Jie , Loo Tsui Huei , Panirselvam Ravivarma Rao , Chang Shu-Sen , Chang Hwei Yuen , Mokhzani Anissa Raudhah , Rahman Farynna Hana Ab , Utyasheva Leah , Eddleston Michael
Published: June 2023

Background

Previous studies have shown that pesticide bans were associated with reduced fatal pesticide self-poisoning cases in high, and low-and-middle-income countries. We aimed to investigate the characteristics of pesticide poisoning patients admitted to two Malaysian hospitals and the early impact of the national paraquat ban implemented on 1st January 2020 in a culturally heterogenous South-East-Asian upper-middle-income setting.

Methods

Data were collected from an East (Bintulu) and a West (Ipoh) Malaysian hospital medical records in 2015–2021 and 2018–2021, respectively. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the association of aspects such as socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, paraquat ban with the types of pesticides involved (paraquat versus non-paraquat versus unknown) ,and the outcomes (fatal versus non-fatal).

Results

From the study sample of 212 pesticide poisoning patients aged 15 years or above, the majority were self-poisoning cases (75.5%) with a disproportionate over-representation of Indian ethnic minority (44.8%). Most pesticide poisoning cases had socio-environmental stressors (62.30%). The commonest stressors were domestic interpersonal conflicts (61.36%). 42.15% of pesticide poisoning survivors had a psychiatric diagnosis. Paraquat poisoning accounted for 31.6% of all patients and 66.7% of fatalities. Case fatality was positively associated with male gender, current suicidal intent, and paraquat poisoning. After the paraquat ban, the proportion of pesticide poisoning cases using paraquat decreased from 35.8 to 24.0%, and the overall case-fatality dropped slightly from 21.2 to 17.3%.

Conclusions

Socio-environmental stressors in specific domestic interpersonal conflicts, seemed more prominent in pesticide poisoning compared to psychiatric diagnosis. Paraquat accounted for the majority of pesticide-associated deaths occurring in hospitals in the study areas. There was preliminary evidence that the 2020 paraquat ban led to a fall in case fatality from pesticide poisoning.
What are important ingredients for Intensive Home Support for people with severe mental illness according to experts? A concept mapping approach
Authors: van Genk Caroline , Roeg Diana , van Vugt Maaike , van Weeghel Jaap , Van Regenmortel Tine
Published: June 2023

Background

Deinstitutionalization in mental health care has been an ongoing process for decades. More and more people with severe mental illness (SMI), who previously lived in residential supported housing settings and were formerly homeless, are now living independently in the community but need intensive support to enable independent living. The support provided by regular outpatient teams is inadequate for this target group. This study explored the ingredients for an alternative form of outpatient support: intensive home support (IHS).

Methods

Concept mapping was used, following five steps: (1) brainstorming, (2) sorting, (3) rating, (4) statistical analysis & visual representation, and (5) interpretation. Purposive sampling was used to represent several perspectives, including researchers, professionals, peer workers, and policy makers.

Results

Experts (n = 17) participated in the brainstorming step and the sorting and rating steps (n = 14). The 84 generated statements were grouped into 10 clusters:. (1) housing rights; (2) informal collaboration; (3) reciprocity in the community; (4) normalization and citizenship; (5) recovery; (6) sustainable funding; (7) equivalence; (8) flexible, proactive 24/7 support; (9) public health and positive health; and (10) integrated cooperation in support at home.

Conclusions

Given the diversity of the ingredients contained in the clusters, it seems that IHS should be designed according to a holistic approach in collaboration with several sectors. Additionally, IHS is not only the responsibility of care organizations but also the responsibility of national and local governments. Further research about collaboration and integrated care is needed to determine how to implement all of the ingredients in practice.
Building trust: Leadership reflections on community empowerment and engagement in a large urban initiative
Authors: Lansing Amy E. , Romero Natalie J. , Siantz Elizabeth , Silva Vivianne , Center Kimberly , Casteel Danielle , Gilmer Todd
Published: June 2023

Background

Trust is essential for healthy, reciprocal relationships; creating safe environments; engaging in transparent interactions; successfully negotiating power differentials; supporting equity and putting trauma informed approaches into practice. Less is known, however, about the ways that trust-building may be at the forefront of consideration during community capacity building efforts, what trust-building elements are perceived as essential for optimally engaging communities, and what practices might support these efforts.

Methods

The present study examines an evolving understanding of trust-building over the course of 3 years, from qualitative data derived during interviews with nine agency leads from a large and diverse urban community, who are spearheading community-based partnerships to create more trauma-informed communities and foster resiliency.

Results

Data reflected fourteen trust-building elements, captured by three themes: 1) Building relationships and engagement (e.g., behavioral practices such asmeeting people“where they are at” andcreating safe spaces), 2) Embodying core values of trustworthiness (e.g., traits such asbeing transparentandembodying benevolence), and 3) Sharing decision-making, championing autonomy, and addressing barriers to trust (e.g., collaborative practices such ascreating a shared vision and goalsandaddressing systemic inequities). These trust-building elements are presented in the Community Circle of Trust-Building, which provides an accessible, visual format that can facilitate capacity building efforts within organizations and with the broader community; guide the selection of training opportunities that support healthy interpersonal relationships; and aid in the identification of relevant, supporting frameworks (e.g., health equity, trauma-informed practices, inclusive leadership models).

Conclusions

Community engagement and trust are essential for overall health and well-being, increasing equitable access to resources, and supporting an effective and connected citizenry. These data shed light on opportunities for trust-building and thoughtful engagement among agencies working directly with community members in large urban areas.
Prevalence of neutropenia in US residents: a population based analysis of NHANES 2011–2018
Authors: Zhou Jing , Zhou Nan , Liu Qing , Xie Zhi-Ping , Xu Yun , Dai Si-Cheng , Lu Juan , Bao Zheng-Yang , Wu Li-Da
Published: June 2023

Aims

Neutrophils play a pivotal in immunity and inflammation. We aim to investigate the prevalence of neutropenia in the United States.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2011–2018) were enrolled. Demographic information, hematologic measurements, smoking status of all participants were collected for all participants. All statistical analyses were performed utilizing the NHANES survey weights. Covariate-adjusted linear regression was used to compare hematologic indices in different population grouped by age, sex, ethnicity, and smoking. We also employed multivariate-logistic regression to estimate the weighted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval and predict the neutropenia risk among.

Results

32,102 participants from NHANES survey were included, represented 286.6 million multiracial population in the United States. Black participants had lower mean leukocyte count (mean difference (MD): 0.71 × 109/L; P < 0.001) and lower neutrophil count (MD: 0.83 × 109/L; P < 0.001) compared with white participants after adjusting for age and sex. Furthermore, t a notable observation was the significant downward shift in the distribution curves of leukocyte count and neutrophil count among black participants. Smokers had a higher mean leukocyte count (MD: 1.10 × 109 cells/L; P < 0.001) and a higher mean neutrophil count (MD: 0.75 × 109 cells/L; P < 0.001) comparing with nonsmokers. The estimated prevalence of neutropenia was 1.24% (95% CI: 1.11 − 1.37%), which corresponds to approximately 35.5 million individuals in the United States. The prevalence of neutropenia in black participants was significantly higher than other races. Results of logistic regression analysis showed that black individuals, male individuals, and children younger than 5 years had a higher risk of neutropenia.

Conclusions

Neutropenia is more common in the general population than we thought, especially in black individuals and children. More attention should be paid to neutropenia.
Household food insecurity, low maternal social support and maternal common mental disorders in East Mamprusi Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Wemakor Anthony , Bukari Mohammed , Atariba Raymond
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Both household food insecurity and maternal common mental disorders are public health concerns in Ghana but studies on them, and their interrelatedness are scarce. Social support is an independent determinant of mental health but can also moderate the link between risk factors and mental illness. Identifying the risk factors of mental illness may provide opportunities for intervention and help reduce disease burden and impact. This study examined the association between household food insecurity or low maternal social support and maternal common mental disorders in East Mamprusi Municipality, Ghana.

Methods

This was a community-based, cross-sectional study involving 400 mothers with children 6–23 months selected using multi-stage sampling. Summary scores for household food insecurity, maternal social support, and maternal common mental disorders were measured using Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES), Medical Outcome Study Social Support Scale (SSS), and WHO Self-Reporting Questionnaire 20 items (SRQ-20) respectively in personal interviews. Poisson regression models were fitted to determine the association of household food insecurity or low maternal social support with maternal common mental disorders, controlling for selected socio-demographic variables.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 26.7 (± 6.68) years, and the mean FIES, SSS, and SRQ-20 scores were 5.62 [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 5.29–5.96] out of 8, 43.12 (95% CI: 41.34–44.90) out of 100, and 7.91 (95% CI: 7.38–8.45) out of 19 respectively. About two-thirds of the households (71.9%), and 72.7% and 49.5% of the women had food insecurity, low social support and probable common mental disorder respectively. In the adjusted analyses, a unit increase in FIES score was associated to a 4% increment in the predicted SRQ-20 score [Incident Risk Ratio (IRR) 1.04; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.02, 1.06; p = 0.001], and the predicted SRQ-20 score of the women belonging to low social support category was 38% higher compared to that of women of high social support category (IRR 1.38; 95% CI: 1.14, 1.66; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The prevalence of household food insecurity and common mental disorders among mothers are high, and both household food insecurity and low social support are significantly related to common mental disorders in women. Interventions to reduce both household food insecurity, and common mental disorders in women are warranted, and should include social support for women.
Dental arch spatial changes after premature loss of first primary molars: a systematic review and meta-analysis of split-mouth studies
Authors: Zhao Jingzi , Jin Hua , Li Xiaoning , Qin Xiurong
Published: June 2023

Background

This study aimed to evaluate spatial changes in dental arches resulting from premature loss of first primary molars and assess the necessity of a space maintainer.

Methods

We searched the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials, and EMBASE. Split-mouth studies involving unilateral premature loss of a primary first molar were included. Quality assessment of selected studies made use of the ROBINS-I tool. Mean space differences were calculated for the D + E and D spaces, arch width, arch length, arch perimeter.

Results

Of the 329 studies considered, 11 split-mouth studies were selected, including 246 cases in the maxilla and 217 in the mandible from 477 individuals aged 5–10 years. Over the medium-term follow-up period (6–24 months), space loss was 0.65 mm in the maxillary D + E (MD 0.65, 95% CI 0.15–1.16, P = 0.01), 1.24 mm in the mandibular D + E (MD 1.24, 95% CI 0.60–1.89, P < 0.01), and 1.47 mm in the mandibular D (MD 1.47, 95% CI 0.66–2.28, P < 0.01). There was no significant change in arch width, length, or arch perimeter between the initial and follow-up examinations (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

After premature loss of first primary molars, space can be lost, but the amount of loss would not affect arch width, length, or arch perimeter over the 6–24 months follow-up period.
Psychometric properties of the Child Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (C-OIDP) index: a cross-sectional and an intervention study of adolescents in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Erić Jelena , Bjelović Ljiljana , Janković Svjetlana , Davidović Bojana , Bozović Djordje , Krunić Jelena
Published: June 2023

Background

The clinical measures are not sufficient to assess oral health because they don’t tell us anything about functional and psychosocial aspects of oral health and do not reflect person’s concerns and subjectively perceived symptoms. This study aimed to investigate the validity, reliability and responsiveness of the child Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (C-OIDP) index among Bosnian 12-14 years old schoolchildren.

Methods

The study population comprised 203 primary schoolchildren aged 12-14 years attending three schools in the eastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Data were collected through: a clinical oral examination, oral health questionnaire and C-OIDP questionnaire. The validity and reliability of the C-OIDP were tested on a sample of 203 school-going children while responsiveness of the C-OIDP was assessed on 42 randomly chosen participants requiring a dental treatment.

Results

In terms of reliability, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient were 0.86 and 0.85, respectively. Regarding the testing of construct validity, the C-OIDP score was increased as children’s self-reported oral health changed from excellent to very bad and from very satisfied to dissatisfied. There was a significant improvement in C-OIDP post-treatment score compared with C-OIDP pre-treatment score. Overall, 63.4% of participants reported at least one oral impact in the last 3 months. The most affected performances were “eating” (38.4%) and “speaking” (25.1%).

Conclusion

The Bosnian version of the C-OIDP showed satisfactory validity, reliability and responsiveness and can be used as an appropriate OHRQoL measure for further epidemiological researches.