bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic analysis of the blood transcriptome of young healthy pigs to improve disease resilience
Authors: Lim Kyu-Sang , Cheng Jian , Tuggle Christopher , Dyck Michael , Canada PigGen , Fortin Frederic , Harding John , Plastow Graham , Dekkers Jack
Published: December 2023

Background

Disease resilience is the ability of an animal to maintain productive performance under disease conditions and is an important selection target. In pig breeding programs, disease resilience must be evaluated on selection candidates without exposing them to disease. To identify potential genetic indicators for disease resilience that can be measured on selection candidates, we focused on the blood transcriptome of 1594 young healthy pigs with subsequent records on disease resilience. Transcriptome data were obtained by 3’mRNA sequencing and genotype data were from a 650 K genotyping array.

Results

Heritabilities of the expression of 16,545 genes were estimated, of which 5665 genes showed significant estimates of heritability (p < 0.05), ranging from 0.05 to 0.90, with or without accounting for white blood cell composition. Genes with heritable expression levels were spread across chromosomes, but were enriched in the swine leukocyte antigen region (average estimate > 0.2). The correlation of heritability estimates with the corresponding estimates obtained for genes expressed in human blood was weak but a sizable number of genes with heritable expression levels overlapped. Genes with heritable expression levels were significantly enriched for biological processes such as cell activation, immune system process, stress response, and leukocyte activation, and were involved in various disease annotations such as RNA virus infection, including SARS-Cov2, as well as liver disease, and inflammation. To estimate genetic correlations with disease resilience, 3205 genotyped pigs, including the 1594 pigs with transcriptome data, were evaluated for disease resilience following their exposure to a natural polymicrobial disease challenge. Significant genetic correlations (p < 0.05) were observed with all resilience phenotypes, although few exceeded expected false discovery rates. Enrichment analysis of genes ranked by estimates of genetic correlations with resilience phenotypes revealed significance for biological processes such as regulation of cytokines, including interleukins and interferons, and chaperone mediated protein folding.

Conclusions

These results suggest that expression levels in the blood of young healthy pigs for genes in biological pathways related to immunity and endoplasmic reticulum stress have potential to be used as genetic indicator traits to select for disease resilience.
Frequentmers - a novel way to look at metagenomic next generation sequencing data and an application in detecting liver cirrhosis
Authors: Mouratidis Ioannis , Chantzi Nikol , Khan Umair , Konnaris Maxwell A. , Chan Candace S. Y. , Mareboina Manvita , Moeckel Camille , Georgakopoulos-Soares Ilias
Published: December 2023

Early detection of human disease is associated with improved clinical outcomes. However, many diseases are often detected at an advanced, symptomatic stage where patients are past efficacious treatment periods and can result in less favorable outcomes. Therefore, methods that can accurately detect human disease at a presymptomatic stage are urgently needed. Here, we introduce “frequentmers”; short sequences that are specific and recurrently observed in either patient or healthy control samples, but not in both. We showcase the utility of frequentmers for the detection of liver cirrhosis using metagenomic Next Generation Sequencing data from stool samples of patients and controls. We develop classification models for the detection of liver cirrhosis and achieve an AUC score of 0.91 using ten-fold cross-validation. A small subset of 200 frequentmers can achieve comparable results in detecting liver cirrhosis. Finally, we identify the microbial organisms in liver cirrhosis samples, which are associated with the most predictive frequentmer biomarkers.
Genome- and transcriptome-wide identification of trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatases (TPP) gene family and their expression patterns under abiotic stress and exogenous trehalose in soybean
Authors: Shao Wenjing , Zhang Xinlin , Zhou Zhiheng , Ma Yue , Chu Duo , Wang Lei , Yang Yiming , Du Lin , Du Yanli , Du Jidao , Zhao Qiang
Published: December 2023

Background

Trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP) is an essential enzyme catalyzing trehalose synthesis, an important regulatory factor for plant development and stress response in higher plants. However, the TPP gene family in soybean has not been reported.

Results

A comprehensive analysis of the TPP gene family identified 18 GmTPPs classified into eight groups based on the phylogenetic relationships and the conservation of protein in six monocot and eudicot plants. The closely linked subfamilies had similar motifs and intron/exon numbers. Segmental duplication was the main driving force of soybean GmTPPs expansion. In addition, analysis of the cis-regulatory elements and promoter regions of GmTPPs revealed that GmTPPs regulated the response to several abiotic stresses. Moreover, RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analysis of the tissue-specific GmTPPs under different abiotic stresses revealed that most GmTPPs were associated with response to different stresses, including cold, drought, saline-alkali, and exogenous trehalose. Notably, exogenous trehalose treatment up-regulated the expression of most TPP genes under saline-alkali conditions while increasing the carbohydrate and trehalose levels and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in soybean sprouts, especially in the saline-alkali tolerant genotype. Furthermore, the interaction network and miRNA target prediction revealed that GmTPPs interacted with abiotic stress response-related transcription factors.

Conclusions

The findings in this study lay a foundation for further functional studies on TPP-based breeding to improve soybean development and stress tolerance.
Including uncertainty of the expected mortality rates in the prediction of loss in life expectancy
Authors: Leontyeva Yuliya , Lambe Mats , Bower Hannah , Lambert Paul C. , Andersson Therese M.-L.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study introduces a novel method for estimating the variance of life expectancy since diagnosis (LEC) and loss in life expectancy (LLE) for cancer patients within a relative survival framework in situations where life tables based on the entire general population are not accessible. LEC and LLE are useful summary measures of survival in population-based cancer studies, but require information on the mortality in the general population. Our method addresses the challenge of incorporating the uncertainty of expected mortality rates when using a sample from the general population.

Methods

To illustrate the approach, we estimated LEC and LLE for patients diagnosed with colon and breast cancer in Sweden. General population mortality rates were based on a random sample drawn from comparators of a matched cohort. Flexible parametric survival models were used to model the mortality among cancer patients and the mortality in the random sample from the general population. Based on the models, LEC and LLE together with their variances were estimated. The results were compared with those obtained using fixed expected mortality rates.

Results

By accounting for the uncertainty of expected mortality rates, the proposed method ensures more accurate estimates of variances and, therefore, confidence intervals of LEC and LLE for cancer patients. This is particularly valuable for older patients and some cancer types, where underestimation of the variance can be substantial when the entire general population data are not accessible.

Conclusion

The method can be implemented using existing software, making it accessible for use in various cancer studies. The provided example of Stata code further facilitates its adoption.
Symptom-based scoring technique by machine learning to predict COVID-19: a validation study
Authors: Vidyanti Amelia Nur , Satiti Sekar , Khairani Atitya Fithri , Fauzi Aditya Rifqi , Hardhantyo Muhammad , Sufriyana Herdiantri , Su Emily Chia-Yu
Published: December 2023

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) surges, such as that which occurred when omicron variants emerged, may overwhelm healthcare systems. To function properly, such systems should balance detection and workloads by improving referrals using simple yet precise and sensitive diagnostic predictions. A symptom-based scoring system was developed using machine learning for the general population, but no validation has occurred in healthcare settings. We aimed to validate a COVID-19 scoring system using self-reported symptoms, including loss of smell and taste as major indicators.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate medical records of patients admitted to Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from March 2020 to December 2021. Outcomes were defined by a reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We compared the symptom-based scoring system, as the index test, with antigen tests, antibody tests, and clinical judgements by primary care physicians. To validate use of the index test to improve referral, we evaluated positive predictive value (PPV) and sensitivity.

Results

After clinical judgement with a PPV of 61% (n = 327/530, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 60% to 62%), confirmation with the index test resulted in the highest PPV of 85% (n = 30/35, 95% CI: 83% to 87%) but the lowest sensitivity (n = 30/180, 17%, 95% CI: 15% to 19%). If this confirmation was defined by either positive predictive scoring or antigen tests, the PPV was 92% (n = 55/60, 95% CI: 90% to 94%). Meanwhile, the sensitivity was 88% (n = 55/62, 95% CI: 87% to 89%), which was higher than that when using only antigen tests (n = 29/41, 71%, 95% CI: 69% to 73%).

Conclusions

The symptom-based COVID-19 predictive score was validated in healthcare settings for its precision and sensitivity. However, an impact study is needed to confirm if this can balance detection and workload for the next COVID-19 surge.
KRAS status predicted by pretreatment MRI radiomics was associated with lung metastasis in locally advanced rectal cancer patients
Authors: Xiang Yirong , Li Shuai , Song Maxiaowei , Wang Hongzhi , Hu Ke , Wang Fengwei , Wang Zhi , Niu Zhiyong , Liu Jin , Cai Yong , Li Yongheng , Zhu Xianggao , Geng Jianhao , Zhang Yangzi , Teng Huajing , Wang Weihu
Published: December 2023

Background

Mutated KRAS may indicate an invasive nature and predict prognosis in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). We aimed to establish a radiomic model using pretreatment T2W MRIs to predict KRAS status and explore the association between the KRAS status or model predictions and lung metastasis.

Methods

In this retrospective multicentre study, LARC patients from two institutions between January 2012 and January 2019 were randomly divided into training and testing cohorts. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and the support vector machine (SVM) classifier were utilized to select significant radiomic features and establish a prediction model, which was validated by radiomic score distribution and decision curve analysis. The association between the model stratification and lung metastasis was investigated by Cox regression and Kaplan‒Meier survival analysis; the results were compared by the log-rank test.

Results

Overall, 103 patients were enrolled (73 and 30 in the training and testing cohorts, respectively). The median follow-up was 38.1 months (interquartile range: 26.9, 49.4). The radiomic model had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.983 in the training cohort and 0.814 in the testing cohort. Using a cut-off of 0.679 defined by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, patients with a high radiomic score (RS) had a higher risk for lung metastasis (HR 3.565, 95% CI 1.337, 9.505, p = 0.011), showing similar predictive performances for the mutant and wild-type KRAS groups (HR 3.225, 95% CI 1.249, 8.323, p = 0.016, IDI: 1.08%, p = 0.687; NRI 2.23%, p = 0.766).

Conclusions

We established and validated a radiomic model for predicting KRAS status in LARC. Patients with high RS experienced more lung metastases. The model could noninvasively detect KRAS status and may help individualize clinical decision-making.
Association of fresh vegetable and salt-preserved vegetable consumptions with estimated glomerular filtration rate
Authors: Zheng Haiqing , Li Huixian , Pan Liyan , Hu Lianting , Chen Xuanhui , Hou Jiaxin , Liang Huiying
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the consumption of fresh and salt-preserved vegetables and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which requires further research.

Methods

For this purpose, the data of those subjects who participated in the 2011–2012 and 2014 surveys of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) and had biomarker data were selected. Fresh and salt-preserved vegetable consumptions were assessed at each wave. eGFR was assessed using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation based on plasma creatinine. Furthermore, a linear mixed model was used to evaluate associations between fresh/salt-preserved vegetables and eGFR.

Results

The results indicated that the median baseline and follow-up eGFRs were 72.47 mL/min/1.73 m² and 70.26 mL/min/1.73 m², respectively. After applying adjusted linear mixed model analysis to the data, the results revealed that compared to almost daily intake, occasional consumption of fresh vegetables was associated with a lower eGFR (β=-2.23, 95% CI: -4.23, -0.23). Moreover, rare or no consumption of salt-preserved vegetables was associated with a higher eGFR (β = 1.87, 95% CI: 0.12, 3.63) compared to individuals who consumed salt-preserved vegetables daily.

Conclusion

Fresh vegetable consumption was direct, whereas intake of salt-preserved vegetables was inversely associated with eGFR among the oldest subjects, supporting the potential benefits of diet-rich fresh vegetables for improving eGFR.
Yokoyama procedure for cyclic strabismus with axial high myopia:a case report
Authors: Ran Min , Cui Kun-ming , Li Yin , Song Xiu-sheng
Published: December 2023

Background

It is a very rare form of ocular motility characterized by alternating strabismus and orthotropia. We report a patient with a 48-h cycle of esohypotropia associated with axial high myopia that resolved by Yokoyama procedure.

Case presentation

A 43-year-old female patient who underwent left medial rectus muscle recession and lateral rectus muscle resection elsewhere due to highly myopic strabismus 2 years ago. The patient experienced a recurrence of left esohypotropia 12 months after undergoing surgery, exhibiting a 48-hour cycle. The cycle is one full day of esohypotropia and one day of orthotropia. The patient exhibited a case of high myopia in the left eye, characterized by a diopter measurement of -24.00DS and an eye axis measurement of 28.43 mm. Orbital CT showed supertemporal dislocation of the posterior portion of the elongated globe out from the muscle cone. Based on these observations, we performed Yokoyama procedure by uniting the muscle bellies of the superior rectus(SR) and lateral rectus (LR) muscles to restoring the dislocated globe back into the muscle cone.

Conclusions

When cyclic strabismus is combined with axial high myopia, the Yokoyama procedure was effective and cycles are successfully terminated without overcorrection on no squint days. The purpose of this procedure is to put the dislocated globe back into its muscle cone by uniting the muscle bellies of the superior rectus and lateral rectus.
The effect of the swaddling method on stress levels in newborns administered nasal CPAP
Authors: Akkoca Zehra , Yavuz Betul , Koçak Sezgin Ayşe , Bildirici Yaşar
Published: December 2023

Background

This study aims to investigate the effects of the swaddling method on the stress levels in newborns receiving nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP).

Methods

The study was conducted between 1 June 2022 and 1 October 2022 with 40 newborns who underwent nCPAP in the second-level Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of a city hospital in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. Data were collected using a descriptive form, including the characteristics of newborns, a patient follow-up chart, and the Newborn Stress Scale (NSS). The descriptive form, the patient follow-up chart, and the NSS were completed by the researcher 30 min after the nCPAP was started and the first saliva sample was taken. The patient follow-up chart and NSS were completed 30 min after applying the swaddling method and the second saliva sample was collected. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 25.0 package software and presented with number, percentage, mean, standard deviation, min-max, and t-test.

Results

The study found that the mean score of the NSS after the intervention (3.52 ± 2.57) was lower than that before the intervention (10.02 ± 2.05) (p < 0.05). The mean saliva cortisol levels of the newborns after the intervention (4.99 ± 1.89) were lower than before the intervention (5.51 ± 1.65) (p < 0.05). The mean heart (135.50 ± 14.15) and respiratory rates (68.07 ± 10.16) of the newborns after the intervention were lower than those before the intervention (140.82 ± 18.11; 72.95 ± 9.06, respectively) (p < 0.05). There was no difference between the mean oxygen saturation of newborns before and after the intervention (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The study showed that the swaddling method played a role in reducing the stress levels in newborns who underwent nCPAP. It is recommended that randomized controlled trials examining the effect of swaddling on the stress levels of newborns who underwent nCPAP be conducted.
Post-traumatic stress disorder among heart disease patients: a clinical follow-up of individuals with myocardial infarction in the Tromsø Study
Authors: Lorem Geir Fagerjord , Næss Eva T. , Løchen Maja-Lisa , Lillevoll Kjersti , Molund Else-Marie , Rösner Assami , Lindkvist Sigmund , Schirmer Henrik
Published: December 2023

Background

Myocardial infarction is likely to be experienced as a life-threatening and potentially traumatic event. Approximately one-third of patients with myocardial infarction experience clinically significant symptoms of anxiety/depression. However, it is unclear how many of these patients experience these symptoms because of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We conducted a clinical screening of individuals with a confirmed myocardial infarction diagnosis. Our goal was to examine the prevalence of PTSD in myocardial infarction patients and study how PTSD symptoms were associated with exposure to potentially traumatic events.

Method

This is epidemiological research with a cross-sectional design following up participants from the Tromsø Study with a confirmed diagnosis of myocardial infarction. We sent invitations to participants in the Tromsø Study with clinically significant self-reported anxiety or depression symptoms following myocardial infarction. A cross-sectional sample of N = 79 participants (61 men and 18 women) was collected. During an interview, participants completed the Stressful Life Events Screening Questionnaire and the PTSD checklist PCL-5.

Results

We found nine participants (11.6%) with probable PTSD. This was significantly higher than the postulated population prevalence in Norway (p < 0.015). We found no direct association between myocardial infarction as illness trauma and symptom levels (p = 0.123). However, we found a significant linear trend (p = 0.002), indicating that symptom severity increased proportionately as the number of post-traumatic events increased.

Conclusion

PTSD prevalence in myocardial infarction patients was related to lifetime exposure to traumatic events, not the myocardial infarction event alone. More research is required to examine the interaction between myocardial infarction and PTSD. Clinicians should be aware that anxiety or depression symptoms after MI could be secondary symptoms of PTSD.
Glycemic control and associated factors among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: a cross-sectional study of Azar cohort population
Authors: Dinavari Masoud Faghieh , Sanaie Sarvin , Rasouli Kimia , Faramarzi Elnaz , Molani-Gol Roghayeh
Published: December 2023

Background

Despite the growing prevalence of diabetes and its complications, there is a dearth of data regarding factors associated with glycemic control. Therefore, in this cross-sectional study, we aimed to identify factors influencing glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the Iranian population.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among the Azar cohort population and the glycemic control status of patients with T2DM was investigated. Possible risk factors including age, sex, marital status, educational level, smoking status, sleep duration, family history of diabetes and hypertension, socioeconomic status, physical activity level, and co-existence of other chronic diseases and their relationship with glycemic control status were also assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify determinants of glycemic control.

Results

Among 1,710 T2DM patients (60.2% female), the overall prevalence of poor glycemic control was 56.8%. In the unadjusted logistic regression analysis model, a low wealth score index significantly increased the risk of poor glycemic control (OR: 1.49;1.10–2.02). Variables significantly associated with poor glycemic control even after adjusting for confounding factors were first-degree family history of diabetes (OR: 1.34; 1.08–1.65), and sleep duration (OR: 1.29 ;1.02–1.62 for 6.6-8 h/d; OR:1.42;1.10–1.88 for > 8 h/d). Interestingly, we found that the co-existence of ≥ 3 chronic diseases with diabetes decreased the risk of poor glycemic control.

Conclusions

In the current study, most of the patients with T2DM had uncontrolled glycemic control. Due to the individual and social costs of diabetes complications, it is necessary to suggest tailored and effective interventions for controlling blood glucose levels in people with diabetes.
Exploring the needs and coping strategies of family caregivers taking care of dying patients at home: a field study
Authors: Zhang Xiaotian , Xu Tianmeng , Qin Yuan , Wang Minghui , Li Zhaoyu , Song Jingyu , Tang Qianqian , Wang Zidan , Xu Lijie , Wu Lingling , Yue Peng
Published: December 2023

Background

Most Chinese patients chose to die at home, therefore there is a reliance on the family caregivers to be involved in their palliative care. The needs and coping strategies of family caregivers in home-based palliative care are rooted in culture. Little is known about the needs and coping strategies of family caregivers taking care of dying patients at home.

Methods

A field study using semi-structured interview, participant observation, documents and records collection was employed. The study was conducted in two palliative care outpatient departments in tertiary hospitals and four communities in Beijing, China from March 2021 to July 2022. Using purposive sampling, twenty-five family caregivers were recruited. All collected data were analyzed using content analysis approach.

Results

Five themes emerged, including three care needs and two coping strategies. Family caregivers need to learn care skills and acquire care resources, including (i) decision-making about home-based palliative care, (ii) improving patient’s quality of life, and (iii) signs of final hours and funeral procedures. In facing the care burden, family caregivers coped by (iv) balancing the roles of caregivers and individuals: giving priority to patient care while maintaining their own normal life. In facing the death of a loved one, family caregivers responded by (v) making room for coming death by facing death indirectly and “rescuing” patients for consolation while preparing for the coming death.

Conclusion

Family caregivers strive to balance the roles of being caregivers and being themselves. As caregivers, they actively prepare patients for good death with no regrets. As individuals, they preserve themselves from being hurt to maintain normal life. The needs of family caregivers focus on caregiver role and are manifested in care skills and resources.

Trial registration

Not registered.
Exploring the adaptive leisure activities of classified nursing model in elderly colon cancer patients: a perspective on interactive care
Authors: Lin Yun-Zhao , Chen Po , Lin Meng-Meng , Chen Jia-Li , Shi Min-Min , Guo Feng
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aims of the study were first to explore the adaptive leisure activities of classified nursing model from the perspective of nurse-patient interactive care, and to explore its impact on the physical and mental health of patients with colon cancer.

Methods

From September 2017 to March 2022 as the observation time node, 82 patients with colon cancer who met the established inclusion and exclusion criteria were regarded as the research objects through the random number table as the grouping tool. The two groups of patients were named as the research group and the control group, with 41 patients in each group. The control group implemented routine nursing measures, and the research group implemented classified nursing mode and adaptive leisure activity mode. The two groups of patients received 4 weeks of nursing intervention. With the help of self-rating anxiety scale, self-rating depression scale, self-care ability evaluation scale and health status survey brief form, the two groups of patients were compared before intervention and at the end of the 4th week after intervention.

Results

After the intervention, the anxiety score (t = 6.656, p < 0.001) and depression score (t = 4.851, p < 0.001) of the research group were lower than those of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant. After the intervention, the self-concept (t = 4.845, p < 0.001), self-responsibility (t = 6.071, p < 0.001), self-care skills (t = 3.341, p < 0.001), health knowledge (t = 3.698, p < 0.001) and total score (t = 9.246, p < 0.001) of the research group were higher than those of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant. After the intervention, physical functioning (t = 8.141, p < 0.001), bodily pain (t = 6.083, p < 0.001), general health (t = 9.424, p < 0.001), role-physical (t = 8.057, p < 0.001), role-emotional (t = 13.252, p < 0.001), mental health (t = 12.565, p < 0.001), social functioning (t = 10.813, p < 0.001) and vitality score (t = 12.890, p < 0.001) of the research group were higher than those of the control group, with significant differences.

Conclusion

Interactive care through adaptive leisure nursing improves mental well-being, self-management, and psychosocial functioning in elderly colon cancer patients, promoting overall health.
Medicinal plants used in the management of cancers by residents in the Elgon Sub-Region, Uganda
Authors: Kudamba Ali , Kasolo Josephine N. , Bbosa Godfrey S. , Lugaajju Allan , Wabinga Henry , Niyonzima Nixon , Ocan Moses , Damani Ali M. , Kafeero Hussein M. , Ssenku Jamilu E. , Alemu Shaban O. , Lubowa Muhammad , Walusansa Abdul , Muwonge Haruna
Published: December 2023

Background

In Uganda, medicinal plants have been utilized to treat a variety of ailments, including cancer. However, there is little information available about the medicinal plants used to treat cancer in the Elgon subregion. As a result, the current study documented the plant species used in the management of cancer in the Elgon sub-region.

Methods

Data were gathered by observation, self-administered questionnaires, interview guides, and guided field trips. Analyzing descriptive statistics and creating graphs were done using SPSS (version 21.0) and GraphPad Prism® version 9.0.0, respectively. Well-established formulae were used to calculate quantitative indices. The narratives were interpreted using major theories and hypotheses in ethnobotany.

Results

A total of 50 plant species from 36 families were documented, and herbal knowledge was mainly acquired through inheritance. Fabaceae and Asteraceae comprised more plant species used in herbal preparation. Most plants were collected from forest reserves (63%); herbal therapies were made from herbs (45%); and leaves were primarily decocted (43%). The most frequently used plants wereTylosema fassoglensis,Hydnora abyssinica,Azidarachata indica,Prunus Africana,Kigelia africana, Syzygiumcumini,Hydnora africana, Rhoicissus tridentata,Albizia coriaria, and Plectranthus cuanneus. All the most commonly used plants exhibited a high preference ranking (60–86%) and reliability level (74.1–93.9%). Generally, the ICF for all the cancers treated by medicinal plants was close to 1 (0.84–0.95).

Conclusions

The ten most commonly utilized plants were favored, dependable, and most important for treating all known cancers. As a result, more investigation is required to determine their phytochemistry, toxicity, and effectiveness in both in vivo and in vitro studies. This could be a cornerstone for the pharmaceutical sector to develop new anticancer medications.
Enhancing learning experiences in pre-clinical restorative dentistry: the impact of virtual reality haptic simulators
Authors: Daud Alaa , Matoug-Elwerfelli Manal , Daas Hanin , Zahra Daniel , Ali Kamran
Published: December 2023

Background

Utilization of Virtual Reality haptic simulation (VRHS) to aid in the training of various pre-clinical skills is of recent interest. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of VRHS in restorative dentistry on the learning experiences and perceptions of dental students.

Methods

An interventional study design was utilized to recruit third year students. All participants provided informed consents and were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1: Initially performed a Class I cavity preparation with the VRHS, followed by the same exercise using the phantom head/ acrylic typodont teeth in a conventional simulation environment (CSE). Group 2: Initially performed Class I preparations in a CSE, followed by the same exercise using VRHS. Both groups performed the exercises on a lower right first molar. To understand students’ perception, an online questionnaire was circulated. Data analysis involved Chi-square tests, independent t-tests and Mann–Whitney U-tests using the R statistical environment package.

Results

A total of 23 dental students participated in this study. Although student’s perceptions were similar in both groups, a strong agreement that VRHS training might be used to supplement standard pre-clinical training was noted. Advancements to the VRHS hardware and software are required to bridge the gap and provide a smooth transition to clinics.

Conclusion

Novice dental students generally perceived VRHS as a useful tool for enhancing their manual dexterity. Dental institutions should endorse virtual reality technology with caution, ensuring a planned integration into the curriculum to optimize benefit. Feedback is pivotal to effective learning in simulation-based education, and the triangulation of feedback could serve as a powerful aid to maximize the learning experience.
Three-Dimensional Multimodality Image Reconstruction as Teaching Tool for Case-based learning among medical postgraduates: a focus on primary pelvic bone Tumour Education
Authors: Hu Xin , Wang Yitian , Li Jian , Qing Ping , Yang Xiao , Zeng Jing , Min Li , Tu Chongqi
Published: December 2023

Background

Postgraduate medical education in oncology orthopedics confronts obstacles when instructing on pelvic tumors, primarily due to their intricate anatomy and the limitations of conventional teaching techniques. The employment of Three-dimensional multimodality imaging (3DMMI) can be considered a valuable teaching tool, as it gracefully elucidates the intricacies of pelvic anatomical structures and the interactions between tumors and surrounding tissues through three-dimensional imaging, thereby providing a comprehensive and nuanced perspective. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of incorporating 3DMMI in combination with a Case-Based Learning (CBL) approach for postgraduate education.

Methods

The study encompassed a 10-week course involving 90 surgical postgraduates, focusing on common pelvic tumor diseases. Students were assigned representative clinical cases, and each group created a PowerPoint presentation based on these cases. The core educational content included fundamental knowledge of pelvic anatomy, as well as clinical presentations, radiological features, and treatment principles of common pelvic tumor diseases. The research compared two groups: a traditional CBL group (n = 45) and a 3DMMI-CBL group (n = 45). The 3DMMI-CBL group had access to advanced imaging technology for better visualization. Various evaluations, including image interpretation, theoretical knowledge, and questionnaires, were used to assess the learning outcomes.

Results

The 3DMMI-CBL group outperformed the CBL group not only in the imaging diagnosis of common pelvic diseases but also in their mastery of the related theoretical knowledge. Student questionnaires indicated higher scores for the 3DMMI-CBL group in basic pelvic anatomy knowledge (8.08 vs. 6.62, p < 0.01), image interpretation (8.15 vs. 6.69, p < 0.01), learning efficiency (8.07 vs. 7.00, p < 0.01), clinical reasoning (7.57 vs. 6.77, p < 0.01), and learning interest (8.46 vs. 7.00, p < 0.01). Teacher questionnaires revealed that 3DMMI technology enhanced teachers’ clinical knowledge, facilitated instruction, and increased overall satisfaction and interest in teaching.

Conclusion

Our study introduced an enhancement to the conventional Case-Based Learning (CBL) model by incorporating 3DMMI technology for visualizing pelvic anatomy. In contrast to pure CBL, this adaptation improved teacher instruction, substantially heightened student engagement, ignited greater interest in learning, and boosted overall efficiency, ultimately leading to positive learning outcomes. Consequently, our study demonstrated the potential feasibility and acceptability of the 3DMMI-CBL teaching method for postgraduates in pelvic bone tumor education.
Reliability and validity of Urdu PARENTS for assessing non-technical skills of paediatric residents in a teaching hospital in Pakistan
Authors: Talat Nabila , Khan Rehan Ahmed , Khan Khalid Ahmad , Aziz Muhammad Usama , Tahir Warda , Mirza Muhammad Bilal
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The primary objective of our study is twofold. First, we assessed nontechnical skills (NTSs), such as the cognitive, social, and personal skills of postgraduate residents (PGRs), from paediatric caregivers’ perspectives in a paediatric emergency department (PED) of a tertiary care hospital. Second, we evaluated the reliability and validity of the ‘Parents’ Assessment of Residents Enacting Non-Technical Skills’ (PARENTS) instrument in its Urdu-translated version, ensuring its applicability and accuracy in the Pakistani context.

Materials and methods

This mixed-method study used an instrument translation and validation design. We translated an existing instrument, PARENTS, into Urdu, the national language of Pakistan, and administered it to paediatric caregivers in the PED of a tertiary care hospital. We collected data from 471 paediatric caregivers and coded them for analysis in AMOS and SPSS.

Results

The Urdu-translated version of the PARENTS demonstrated reliability and internal validity in our study. The findings from the assessment revealed that paediatric caregivers expressed satisfaction with the knowledge and skill of residents. However, there was comparatively lower satisfaction regarding the residents’ display of patience or empathy towards the children under their care.

Conclusion

The study findings support the validity and reliability of the PARENTS as an effective instrument for assessing the NTS of PGRs from the perspective of paediatric caregivers. With its demonstrated efficacy, medical educators can utilize PARENTS to pinpoint specific areas that require attention regarding the NTS of PGRs, thus facilitating targeted interventions for enhanced patient care outcomes.
Retrospective evaluation of prognosis and survival with various immunosuppressants in 82 dogs diagnosed with meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology (2010–2021)
Authors: Kim So-Hee , Oh Ye-In , Park Su-Min , An Ju Hyun , Kim Tae-Hee , Kim Sung-Soo , Ah Jae-Gon , Seo Kyoung-Won , Youn Hwa-Young
Published: December 2023

Background

Meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown etiology (MUE) is a comprehensive term for non-infectious inflammatory brain diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) caused by abnormal autoimmune responses. This study aims to compare the differences in survival and clinical response of MUE according to the adjuvant immunosuppressant use. Medical records of 82 dogs diagnosed with MUE were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

The overall survival time was 769 days (range 14–2687 days). The median survival time for each adjunctive was: leflunomide 1035 days (range 126–2163 days), mycophenolate mofetil 865 days (range 39–2191 days), cyclosporin 441 days (range 11–2176 days), cytosine arabinoside 754 days (range 6–1898 days) and a combination of mycophenolate mofetil and cytosine arabinoside 132 days (range 23–1227 days). There was no significant difference in the incidence rate of adverse events according to the immunosuppressants, but moderate to severe anemia was confirmed in 3 patients (18.7%) in the leflunomide group.

Conclusions

The survival time and response rate of MUE dogs differed depending on which adjunctive immunosuppressants were used. Leflunomide showed a long survival time and a relatively good response rate in dogs with MUE. However, a large-scale further study with standardized doses of immunosuppressants and supportive treatment and constant monitoring interval is needed.
Amplicon deep sequencing of five highly
polymorphic markers of Plasmodium falciparum reveals high parasite genetic diversity and moderate population
structure in Ethiopia
Authors: Reda Abeba Gebretsadik , Huwe Tiffany , Koepfli Cristian , Assefa Ashenafi , Tessema Sofonias Kifle , Messele Alebachew , Golassa Lemu , Mamo Hassen
Published: December 2023

Background

Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity can add information on transmission intensity and can be used to track control and elimination interventions.

Methods

Dried blood spots (DBS) were collected from patients who were recruited for a P. falciparum malaria therapeutic efficacy trial in three malaria endemic sites in Ethiopia from October to December 2015, and November to December 2019. qPCR-confirmed infections were subject to amplicon sequencing of polymorphic markers ama1-D3, csp, cpp, cpmp, msp7. Genetic diversity, the proportion of multiclonal infections, multiplicity of infection, and population structure were analysed.

Results

Among 198 samples selected for sequencing, data was obtained for 181 samples. Mean MOI was 1.38 (95% CI 1.24–1.53) and 17% (31/181) of infections were polyclonal. Mean He across all markers was 0.730. Population structure was moderate; populations from Metema and Metehara 2015 were very similar to each other, but distinct from Wondogent 2015 and Metehara 2019.

Conclusion

The high level of parasite genetic diversity and moderate population structure in this study suggests frequent gene flow of parasites among sites. The results obtained can be used as a baseline for additional parasite genetic diversity and structure studies, aiding in the formulation of appropriate control strategies in Ethiopia.
Extracellular vesicles from hiPSC-NSCs can prevent peripheral inflammation-induced cognitive dysfunction with inflammasome inhibition and improved neurogenesis in the hippocampus
Authors: Ayyubova Gunel , Kodali Maheedhar , Upadhya Raghavendra , Madhu Leelavathi N. , Attaluri Sahithi , Somayaji Yogish , Shuai Bing , Rao Shama , Shankar Goutham , Shetty Ashok K.
Published: December 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem cells (hiPSC-NSCs) are enriched with miRNAs and proteins capable of mediating robust antiinflammatory activity. The lack of tumorigenic and immunogenic properties and ability to permeate the entire brain to incorporate into microglia following intranasal (IN) administrations makes them an attractive biologic for curtailing chronic neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative disorders. We tested the hypothesis that IN administrations of hiPSC-NSC-EVs can alleviate chronic neuroinflammation and cognitive impairments induced by the peripheral lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Adult male, C57BL/6J mice received intraperitoneal injections of LPS (0.75 mg/kg) for seven consecutive days. Then, the mice received either vehicle (VEH) or hiPSC-NSC-EVs (~ 10 × 109 EVs/administration, thrice over 6 days). A month later, mice in all groups were investigated for cognitive function with behavioral tests and euthanized for histological and biochemical studies. Mice receiving VEH after LPS displayed deficits in associative recognition memory, temporal pattern processing, and pattern separation. Such impairments were associated with an increased incidence of activated microglia presenting NOD-, LRR-, and pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes, elevated levels of NLRP3 inflammasome mediators and end products, and decreased neurogenesis in the hippocampus. In contrast, the various cognitive measures in mice receiving hiPSC-NSC-EVs after LPS were closer to naive mice. Significantly, these mice displayed diminished microglial activation, NLRP3 inflammasomes, proinflammatory cytokines, and a level of neurogenesis matching age-matched naïve controls. Thus, IN administrations of hiPSC-NSC-EVs are an efficacious approach to reducing chronic neuroinflammation-induced cognitive impairments.
Empagliflozin targets Mfn1 and Opa1 to attenuate microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in retinal ischemia and reperfusion injury
Authors: Yang Zhenlan , Liu Yidan , Chen Xuhao , Huang Shaofen , Li Yangyang , Ye Guitong , Cao Xu , Su Wenru , Zhuo Yehong
Published: December 2023

Background

Neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction play crucial roles in retinal ischemia and reperfusion (IR) injury. Recent studies have identified mitochondrial function as a promising target for immunomodulation. Empagliflozin (EMPA), an anti-diabetic drug, has exhibited great potential as both an anti-inflammatory agent and a protector of mitochondrial health. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic efficacy of EMPA in retinal IR injury.

Methods

To evaluate the protective effects of EMPA, the drug was injected into the vitreous body of mice post-retinal IR. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was conducted to uncover the underlying mechanisms, and the results were further validated through in vivo and in vitro experiments.

Results

EMPA effectively protected retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from IR injury by attenuating local retinal inflammation. The scRNA-seq analysis revealed that EMPA downregulated the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing protein 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway and restored mitochondrial dynamics by upregulating the expression of mitochondrial fusion-related genes, Mitofusin 1 (Mfn1) and optic atrophy 1 (Opa1). These findings were further corroborated by Western blotting. In vitro experiments provided additional insights, demonstrating that EMPA suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cell inflammation and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Moreover, EMPA enhanced mitochondrial fusion, neutralized mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS), and restored mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in BV2 microglia. Notably, genetic ablation of Mfn1 or Opa1 abolished the anti-inflammatory effects of EMPA.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the positive contribution of Mfn1 and Opa1 to the anti-inflammatory therapeutic effect of EMPA. By restoring mitochondrial dynamics, EMPA effectively mitigates microglia-mediated neuroinflammation and prevents RGC loss in retinal IR injury.
Armstrong strain lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection after accidental laboratory exposure
Authors: Caron Laurence , Delisle Jean-Sébastien , Strong James E , Deschambault Yvon , Lombard-Vadnais Félix , Labbé Annie-Claude , Lesage Sylvie
Published: December 2023

Background

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a human pathogen naturally present in wild rodents. In addition, LCMV is routinely used in immunology research as a model of viral infection in mice. The Armstrong common laboratory strain and the Clone-13 variant induce acute and chronic infections in mice, respectively. The frequent use of this virus in laboratory settings is associated with a risk of human infection for laboratory personnel. In contrast to LCMV Clone-13, few human laboratory infections with LCMV Armstrong have been reported, leading to a poor understanding of symptoms related to infection with this specific LCMV strain.

Case presentation

A researcher accidentally infected herself percutaneously with LCMV Armstrong. Symptoms including headaches, dizziness, eye pain and nausea appeared seven days post-exposure and lasted ten days. LCMV-IgM antibodies were detected at 28 days post-infection and IgG seroconversion was observed later. Complete recovery was confirmed three months post exposure.

Conclusions

Research involving live viruses comes with the risk of infection for research personnel. This case is the first reported accidental human infection with LCMV Armstrong. The symptoms differed from reported infections with LCMV Clone-13, by the absence of fever and vomiting, and presence of leg numbness. This report will therefore help clinicians and public health authorities to recognize the symptoms associated with LCMV Armstrong infections and to offer appropriate counselling to individuals who accidentally expose themselves.