bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementing a community-based antimicrobial stewardship intervention in Malaysia
Authors: Mohammed Ali Haider , Lim Angelina , Hassan Bassam Abdul Rasool , Blebil Ali , Dujaili Juman , Ramachandram Dinesh Sangarran , Hassan Hawar Sardar , Abid Arooj
Published: May 2024

Background

In Malaysia, the unregulated use of antibiotics and lack of awareness about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among pharmacists pose significant challenges. Implementing community-based Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) initiatives is crucial to address the rising AMR.

Methods

We developed a bespoke AMS intervention, aligned with the World Health Organization’s AMS modules, as a 2-day online educational seminar for community pharmacists. The effectiveness of the workshop was evaluated using pre- and post-seminar questionnaires, focusing on AMS knowledge and attitudes towards antimicrobial usage.

Results

Among 528 participants, 489 completed both questionnaires. Pre-seminar, only 59% correctly understood the concept of antibiotic resistance reversibility, which improved to 85.9% post-seminar ( p = .002). The average AMS knowledge score increased from 5/10 to 8/10 post-intervention ( p < .05). A significant improvement was also noted in pharmacists’ ability to select appropriate antibiotic therapies, particularly for urinary tract infections, with an increase from 78% to 90% correct responses.

Conclusion

The AMS seminar was well-received and significantly improved the AMS knowledge of community pharmacists. The results underline the need for more AMS-focused interventions in this demographic in Malaysia, contributing to the development of formalized AMS programs. Such initiatives are expected to enhance antibiotic use awareness, encourage optimal antibiotic practices, and positively shift professional conduct in community settings.
Health promotion as the nexus of public health and clinical care: the case of a district hospital in southern Ghana
Authors: Adzei Francis A. , Agblom Richard O. , Commey Valda , Alornu Mawusi A.
Published: May 2024

This study explored the extent to which health promotion techniques and activities are incorporated into public health and clinical care at a District Hospital in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, as well as the challenges that this process faces. Information was obtained at the hospital facility through direct observation, interviews and open-ended questionnaires. Findings showed that the process of incorporating health promotion activities into public health and clinical care at the hospital was underdeveloped. The challenges this process faces based on the research findings include structural challenges, inadequate logistics, increased workload, insufficient human resource capacity, lack of motivation for staff, lack of cooperation, teamwork and consultation, inadequate management and enforcement support, prolonged hospital hours for healthcare workers and patients, and inadequate knowledge of health promotion and training. To address these challenges, suggested measures include promoting teamwork and collaboration among healthcare professionals, training and continuous education, government involvement and enforcement of health promotion integration at the hospital, hospital management involvement, media sensitization and advocacy, provision of financial, material and human resources, motivation and encouragement of the process of health promotion integration, and patient involvement. Further research is also recommended to broaden the scope of this study by involving other health practitioner categories and health promotion stakeholders.
Cumulative Data of 1H and 13C NMR Signals and Specific Rotations of Eremophilane Sesquiterpenoids. 4. 10H-3-O-Furanoeremophilanes
Authors: Tori Motoo
Published: May 2024

1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data and specific rotations of eremophilane sesquiterpenoids are cumulated as a series of review articles. This fourth chapter focuses on furanoeremophilanes bearing 10H with C-3 oxygen functionality, and 175 10H-furanoeremophilanes with 3-O functionality are listed in 38 tables. Those with 15,6-lactones and 6,15-ethers are included in this chapter. Dihydrofurans, lactols, dimers, nor- and seco-compounds, and other related compounds, are not included in this chapter. These data may help chemists working in the area of natural products chemistry and synthetic scientists as well as computational chemists.
Psychological Factors Are Related to Neuromuscular Asymmetries After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Borawski Joanna , Brindle Richard Arthur , Florkiewicz Erin , Mason John S. , Pitt Will , Cameron Kenneth L. , Crowell Michael S.
Published: May 2024

Background:

After an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), only 47% of military members return to full duty, possibly due to persistent neuromuscular asymmetries. Psychological factors may also contribute to reduced return to duty in military members.

Hypothesis:

Psychological factors and time since surgery would be associated negatively with neuromuscular asymmetries, asymmetries would be greater in cadets postsurgery when compared with healthy controls, and asymmetries would be greater at earlier timepoints after ACLR.

Study Design:

Case control.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

This study examined the relationship between psychological factors and time since surgery with neuromuscular asymmetry, compared neuromuscular asymmetries between cadets with and without a history of ACLR, and explored differences in neuromuscular asymmetries at different timepoints in cadets with a history of ACLR. A total of 37 cadets post-ACLR (18.3 ± 9 months) and 28 controls participated. Psychological factors were assessed using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia and Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI). Participants performed a drop-jump landing, joint positioning sense (JPS), and isometric quadriceps strength testing. Peak vertical ground-reaction forces (vGRF), absolute angle of replication, peak quadriceps torque, rate of torque development (RTD), and RTD time torque interval 200 ms (TTI200) were analyzed.

Results:

The ACL-RSI score was significantly related to limb symmetry index (LSI) peak quadriceps torque ( r = 0.617, P < 0.01), LSI RTD (r = 0.367, P = 0.05), and LSI TTI200 (r = 0.0489, P < 0.01), but not time since surgery, JPS, or LSI peak vGRF. Cadets with a history of ACLR had significantly lesser ACL-RSI scores and greater asymmetries compared with controls.

Conclusion:

Reduced psychological readiness was associated with increased neuromuscular asymmetries after ACLR.

Clinical Relevance:

Clinicians should assess psychological readiness during rehabilitation after ACLR.
Epidemiology and Characteristics of Women With Facial Fractures Seeking Emergency Care in the United States: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Peluso Heather , Talemal Lindsay , Moss Civanni , Araya Sthefano , Kozorosky Erica , Patel Sameer A. , Walchak Adam
Published: May 2024

Study Design

Facial bone fractures in women are less common than in men in the United States. However, little is known about the epidemiology of women who sustain facial fractures.

Objective

Our aim is to describe the patient population of women seeking emergency care for facial fractures in the United States and they type and cost of care received in this setting.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study using the 2019 National Emergency Department Sample. The inclusion criterion was diagnosis of facial fracture. The primary outcome was patient characteristics. The secondary outcomes are emergency department (ED) characteristics, discharge disposition, total visit charges, and most common cause. Diagnoses and procedures were identified using ICD10-CM codes. Outcomes were compared to men.

Results

Thirty-seven percent of ED facial fractures were encountered in women. Both women and men were most likely adult, Caucasian, from the lowest median income quartile, sustained nasal bone fractures, and presented to a southern, metropolitan, private nonprofit, non-trauma ED.

Conclusions

Women were older, more likely insured by Medicare and less likely by private insurance, discharged home, and had lower ED charges than their male counterparts. However, the financial burden of emergency care for facial fractures among women was $1.6 billion.
Food adulteration: Causes, risks, and detection techniques—review
Authors: Anagaw Yeniewa Kerie , Ayenew Wondim , Limenh Liknaw Workie , Geremew Derso Teju , Worku Minichil Chanie , Tessema Tewodros Ayalew , Simegn Wudneh , Mitku Melese Legesse
Published: May 2024

Food adulteration is the intentional addition of foreign or inferior substances to original food products for a variety of reasons. It takes place in a variety of forms, like mixing, substitution, hiding poor quality in packaging material, putting decomposed food for sale, misbranding or giving false labels, and adding toxicants. Several analytical methods (such as chromatography, spectroscopy, electronic sensors) are used to detect the quality of foodstuffs. This review provides concise but detailed information to understand the scope and scale of food adulteration as a way to further detect, combat, and prevent future adulterations. The objective of this review was to provide a comprehensive overview of the causes, risks, and detection techniques associated with food adulteration. It also aimed to highlight the potential health risks posed by consuming adulterated food products and the importance of detecting and preventing such practices. During the review, books, regulatory guidelines, articles, and reports on food adulteration were analyzed critically. Furthermore, the review assessed key findings to present a well-rounded analysis of the challenges and opportunities associated with combating food adulteration. This review included different causes and health impacts of food adulteration. The analytical techniques for food adulteration detection have also been documented in brief. In addition, the review emphasized the urgency of addressing food adulteration through a combination of regulatory measures, technological advancements, and consumer awareness. In conclusion, food adulteration causes many diseases such as cancer, liver disease, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and nervous system-related diseases. So, ensuring food safety is the backbone of health and customer satisfaction. Strengthening regulations, taking legal enforcement action, enhancing testing, and quality control can prevent and mitigate the adulteration of food products. Moreover, proper law enforcement and regular inspection of food quality can bring about drastic changes.
Is incoherence required for sustainability?
Authors: Hamant Olivier
Published: May 2024

Unstoppable feedback loops and tipping points in socio-ecological systems are the main threats to sustainability. These behaviors have been extensively studied, notably to predict, and arguably deviate, dead-end trajectories. A core group of repeated and predictable patterns in all systems, called systems archetypes, has been identified. For instance, the archetype of escalation is made of two positive feedback loops fueling one another. Interestingly, none of the known archetypes provide sustainability: they all trigger endless amplification. In parallel, systems biologists have made considerable progress on the role of incoherent loops in molecular networks in the past 20 years. Such patterns in biological networks produce stability and a form of intrinsic autonomy for all functions, from circadian rhythm to immunity. Incoherence is the fuel of homeostasis of living systems. Here, I bridge both conclusions and propose that incoherence should be included in the list of systems archetypes, and considered as an operational way to buffer socio-ecological fluctuations. This proposition is supported by the well-known trade-off between robustness and efficiency: adaptability requires some degree of internal contradiction. This applies to both technical and social systems: incoherent strategies recognize and fuel the diversity of solutions; they are the essential, yet often ignored, components of cooperation. Building on these theoretical considerations and real-life examples, incoherence might offer a counterintuitive, but transformative, way out of the Great Acceleration, and possibly, an actionable lever for decision makers.
Perceptions of mental health providers of the barriers and facilitators of using and engaging youth in digital mental-health-enabled measurement based care
Authors: Bassi E.M. , Bright K.S. , Norman L.G. , Pintson K. , Daniel S. , Sidhu S. , Gondziola J. , Bradley J. , Fersovitch M. , Stamp L. , Moskovic K. , LaMonica H.M. , Iorfino F. , Gaskell T. , Tomlinson S. , Johnson D.W. , Dimitropoulos G.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Increased rates of mental health disorders and substance use among youth and young adults have increased globally, furthering the strain on an already burdened mental health system. Digital solutions have been proposed as a potential option for the provision of timely mental health services for youth, with little research exploring mental health professional views about using such innovative tools. In Alberta, Canada, we are evaluating the implementation and integration of a digital mental health (dMH) platform into existing service pathways. Within this paper we seek to explore mental health professionals’ perceptions of the barriers and facilitators that may influence their utilization of digital MH-enabled measurement-based care (MBC) with the youth who access their services.

Methods

A qualitative, descriptive methodology was used to inductively generate themes from focus groups conducted with mental health professionals from specialized mental health services and primary care networks in Alberta.

Results

As mental health professionals considered the barriers and facilitators of using dMH with youth, they referenced individual and family barriers and facilitators to consider. Providers highlighted perceived barriers, including: first, cultural stigma, family apprehension about mental health care, and parental access to dMH and MBC as deterrents to providers adopting digital platforms in routine care; second, perceptions of increased responsibility and liability for youth in crisis; third, perception that some psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders in youth are not amenable to dMH; fourth, professionals contemplated youth readiness to engage with dMH-enabled MBC. Participants also highlighted pertinent facilitators to dMH use, noting: first, the suitability of dMH for youth with mild mental health concerns; second, youth motivated to report their changes in mental health symptoms; and lastly, youth proficiency and preference for dMH options.

Conclusions

By identifying professionals’ perceptions of barriers and facilitators for youth users, we may better understand how to address misconceptions about who is eligible and appropriate for dMH through training and education.
Prevalence of Frailty Phenotypes in Older People Living with HIV: A Cross-Sectional Study from Brazil
Authors: Wiechmann Susana Lilian , Tejo Alexandre Mestre , Inácio Manuel Victor Silva , Mesas Arthur Eumann , Cabrera Marcos Aparecido Sarria
Published: May 2024

Background

Frailty may affect people living with HIV (PLHIV) prematurely. Fried's frailty phenotype, composed of 5 criteria, is one of the most used instruments for its assessment. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of these criteria among PLHIV classified as prefrail and frail in Brazil.

Methods

A cross-sectional study analyzed the prevalence of the Frailty Phenotype in Brazil with 670 individuals aged ≥ 50 years and undetectable viral load.

Results

The prevalence of prefrail and frail individuals was 50.7% and 13.6%, respectively. A low level of physical activity was the most prevalent criterion (50.9%). Except for unintentional weight loss, all other criteria were more prevalent among individuals with lower education levels. All criteria were more prevalent among individuals of lower socioeconomic status than among those of moderate or high status ( P < .05).

Conclusions

A low level of physical activity was the component that most contributed to PLHIV being considered prefrail or frail.
Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Traditional Chinese Version of the VISA-P Questionnaire
Authors: Syu Fang-Yu , Lin Yin-Liang , Chien Andy , Chen Chao-Ying , Hsieh Benjamin Yung-Thing , Shih Yi-Fen
Published: May 2024

Background:

The Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Patella (VISA-P) questionnaire is a widely accepted instrument for measuring the severity of symptoms and pain in patients having sustained patellar tendinopathy.

Purpose:

To adapt the VISA-P questionnaire cross-culturally to a traditional Chinese version (VISA-P-Ch) and validate its psychometric properties.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The VISA-P questionnaire was adapted to a traditional Chinese version following international recommended guidelines, including translation, synthesis, back translation, revision by expert committee, pretesting, and validation. The psychometric properties were tested in 15 healthy controls and 15 participants with patellar tendinopathy. Face validity was judged by the authors and participants. Known-groups validity was tested by comparing the VISA-P-Ch scores between symptomatic and asymptomatic participants using an independent t test. Concurrent validity was determined by comparing the Blazina classification of the participants against VISA-P-Ch scores using the Spearman correlation coefficient. Test-retest reliability was assessed by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) following a 24- to 48-hour interval. Internal consistency was determined by the Cronbach alpha.

Results:

The expert committee and participants reported good face validity of the VISA-P-Ch. Significantly higher scores were found in the control group than in the patellar tendinopathy group (98.47 ± 3.04 vs 65 ± 11.9; P < .001). Concurrent validity showed a high correlation between VISA-P-Ch and the Blazina classification system ( r = -0.899; P < .01). The test-retest reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.964). Internal consistency was found to be good for both the first and second assessments (Cronbach α = 0.834 and 0.851).

Conclusion:

The VISA-P-Ch was proven to be a reliable and valid questionnaire with similar psychometric properties as the original VISA-P.
‘How Can a Dalit Student Write So Beautifully, So Nicely?’ Caste-Based Stereotyping and Its Implications for Dalit Students in Higher Education
Authors: Padalia Divya
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a social-psychological study of caste stereotyping in higher education in India. It is about the lives of dalit students and their experiences of navigating through educational spaces with the awareness of being targets of stereotyping associated with their caste identity in the academic domain. With the help of in-depth interviews, the study delves into how dalit students respond to negative caste stereotyping, and what facilitates these responses. Fourteen dalit students (male = 8, female = 6) studying at two central universities in Delhi (India) participated in the study. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The analysis helped develop the following two themes: (1) The pervasiveness of caste stereotyping in the academic domain: ‘How can their handwriting be so good?’, (2) Institutional climate shapes responses to stereotyping: ‘this is not a personal issue, it is an entire group’s issue’. The analysis shows dalit students’ active efforts to navigate the negative caste stereotyping in educational contexts. Specifically, the analysis highlights the role of institutional climate in shaping these responses and transforming vulnerability (because of caste-based stereotyping and stigma) to empowerment and assertion. While the passivity and subordination of stigmatised groups such as dalits are taken for granted, this research demonstrates that given a conducive social environment such as a supportive institutional climate, dalit students’ experience of higher education may be positively impacted. The role of institutional climate in the empowerment of disadvantaged group identity and elements that promote such a climate are discussed.
Decitabine in older patients with AML: quality of life results of the EORTC-GIMEMA-GMDS-SG randomized phase 3 trial
Authors: Efficace Fabio , Kicinski Michal , Coens Corneel , Suciu Stefan , van der Velden Walter J. F. M. , Noppeney Richard , Chantepie Sylvain , Griskevicius Laimonas , Neubauer Andreas , Audisio Ernesta , Luppi Mario , Fuhrmann Stephan , Foà Robin , Crysandt Martina , Gaidano Gianluca , Vrhovac Radovan , Venditti Adriano , Posthuma Eduardus F. M. , Candoni Anna , Baron Frédéric , Legrand Olivier , Mengarelli Andrea , Fazi Paola , Vignetti Marco , Giraut Anne , Wijermans Pierre W. , Huls Gerwin , Lübbert Michael
Published: May 2024

We hypothesized that fit older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with decitabine (DEC) would report better health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes than those receiving intensive chemotherapy (IC). We conducted a phase 3 randomized trial to compare DEC (10-day schedule) with IC (3+7) in older fit patients with AML. HRQoL was a secondary end point, and it was assessed with the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) in conjunction with its elderly module (EORTC QLQ-ELD14). The following scales were a priori selected for defining the primary end point: physical and role functioning, fatigue, pain, and burden of illness. HRQoL was assessed at baseline, at regeneration from cycle 2, and at 6 and 12 months after randomization, and also before allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) and 100 days after transplantation. Overall, 606 patients underwent randomization. At 2 months, the risk of HRQoL deterioration was lower in the DEC arm than in the 3+7 arm; 76% (95% confidence interval [CI], 69-82) vs 88% (95% CI, 82-93); odds ratio, 0.43 (95% CI, 0.24-0.76; P = .003). No statistically significant HRQoL differences were observed between treatment arms at the long-term evaluation combining assessments at 6 and 12 months. HRQoL deteriorations between baseline and after allo-HSCT were observed in both arms. However, these deteriorations were not clinically meaningful in patients randomized to DEC, whereas this was the case for those in the 3+7 arm, in 4 of 5 primary HRQoL scales. Our HRQoL findings suggest that lower-intensity treatment with DEC may be preferable to current standard IC (3+7) in fit older patients with AML. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02172872.
A research center’s experience of T-cell–redirecting therapies in triple-class refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Puertas Borja , Fernández-Sánchez Adolfo , Alejo Elena , Rey-Búa Beatriz , Martín-López Ana A. , Pérez-López Estefanía , López-Parra Miriam , López-Corral Lucía , Gutiérrez-Gutiérrez Norma C. , García-Sanz Ramón , Puig Noemi , González-Calle Verónica , Mateos María-Victoria
Published: May 2024

The efficacies of chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-Ts) and bispecific monoclonal antibodies (BiAbs) for triple-class refractory (TCR) myeloma have not previously been compared, and clinical data on how to rescue patients after relapse from these immunotherapies are limited. A retrospective study of 73 TCR patients included in trials was conducted: 36 received CAR-Ts and 37 received BiAbs. CAR-Ts produced a higher overall response rate (ORR) than BiAbs (97.1% vs 56.8%, P = .002). After a median of follow-up of 18.7 months, no significant difference in progression-free survival (PFS) was observed between the CAR-T and BiAbs groups (16.6 vs 10.8 months; P = .090), whereas overall survival (OS) was significantly longer in the CAR-T than in the BiAbs group (49.2 vs 22.6 months; P = .021). BiAbs after CAR-Ts yielded a higher ORR and longer PFS2 than did nonredirecting T-cell therapies after CAR-Ts (ORR: 87.5% vs 50.0%; PFS2: 22.9 vs 12.4 months). By contrast, BiAbs after BiAbs resulted in an ORR of 33% and PFS2 of 8.4 months, which was similar to that produced by the nonredirecting T-cell therapies (ORR: 28.6%; PFS2: 8.1 months). Although this is a pooled analysis of different trials with different products and the patient profile is different for CAR-Ts and BiAbs, both were effective therapies for TCR myeloma. However, in our experience, although the PFS was similar with the 2 approaches, CAR-T therapy resulted in better OS, mainly because of the efficacy of BiAbs as rescue therapy. Our results highlight the importance of treatment sequence in real-word experience.
Reduced lateralization of multiple functional brain networks in autistic males
Authors: Peterson Madeline , Prigge Molly B. D. , Floris Dorothea L. , Bigler Erin D. , Zielinski Brandon A. , King Jace B. , Lange Nicholas , Alexander Andrew L. , Lainhart Janet E. , Nielsen Jared A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Autism spectrum disorder has been linked to a variety of organizational and developmental deviations in the brain. One such organizational difference involves hemispheric lateralization, which may be localized to language-relevant regions of the brain or distributed more broadly.

Methods

In the present study, we estimated brain hemispheric lateralization in autism based on each participant’s unique functional neuroanatomy rather than relying on group-averaged data. Additionally, we explored potential relationships between the lateralization of the language network and behavioral phenotypes including verbal ability, language delay, and autism symptom severity. We hypothesized that differences in hemispheric asymmetries in autism would be limited to the language network, with the alternative hypothesis of pervasive differences in lateralization. We tested this and other hypotheses by employing a cross-sectional dataset of 118 individuals (48 autistic, 70 neurotypical). Using resting-state fMRI, we generated individual network parcellations and estimated network asymmetries using a surface area-based approach. A series of multiple regressions were then used to compare network asymmetries for eight significantly lateralized networks between groups.

Results

We found significant group differences in lateralization for the left-lateralized Language (d = -0.89), right-lateralized Salience/Ventral Attention-A (d = 0.55), and right-lateralized Control-B (d = 0.51) networks, with the direction of these group differences indicating less asymmetry in autistic males. These differences were robust across different datasets from the same participants. Furthermore, we found that language delay stratified language lateralization, with the greatest group differences in language lateralization occurring between autistic males with language delay and neurotypical individuals.

Conclusions

These findings evidence a complex pattern of functional lateralization differences in autism, extending beyond the Language network to the Salience/Ventral Attention-A and Control-B networks, yet not encompassing all networks, indicating a selective divergence rather than a pervasive one. Moreover, we observed an association between Language network lateralization and language delay in autistic males.
Sex differences during development in cortical temporal processing and event related potentials in wild-type and fragile X syndrome model mice
Authors: Croom Katilynne , Rumschlag Jeffrey A. , Erickson Michael A. , Binder Devin , Razak Khaleel A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is currently diagnosed in approximately 1 in 44 children in the United States, based on a wide array of symptoms, including sensory dysfunction and abnormal language development. Boys are diagnosed ~ 3.8 times more frequently than girls. Auditory temporal processing is crucial for speech recognition and language development. Abnormal development of temporal processing may account for ASD language impairments. Sex differences in the development of temporal processing may underlie the differences in language outcomes in male and female children with ASD. To understand mechanisms of potential sex differences in temporal processing requires a preclinical model. However, there are no studies that have addressed sex differences in temporal processing across development in any animal model of ASD.

Methods

To fill this major gap, we compared the development of auditory temporal processing in male and female wildtype (WT) and Fmr1 knock-out (KO) mice, a model of Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), a leading genetic cause of ASD-associated behaviors. Using epidural screw electrodes, we recorded auditory event related potentials (ERP) and auditory temporal processing with a gap-in-noise auditory steady state response (ASSR) paradigm at young (postnatal (p)21 and p30) and adult (p60) ages from both auditory and frontal cortices of awake, freely moving mice.

Results

The results show that ERP amplitudes were enhanced in both sexes of Fmr1 KO mice across development compared to WT counterparts, with greater enhancement in adult female than adult male KO mice. Gap-ASSR deficits were seen in the frontal, but not auditory, cortex in early development (p21) in female KO mice. Unlike male KO mice, female KO mice show WT-like temporal processing at p30. There were no temporal processing deficits in the adult mice of both sexes.

Conclusions

These results show a sex difference in the developmental trajectories of temporal processing and hypersensitive responses in Fmr1 KO mice. Male KO mice show slower maturation of temporal processing than females. Female KO mice show stronger hypersensitive responses than males later in development. The differences in maturation rates of temporal processing and hypersensitive responses during various critical periods of development may lead to sex differences in language function, arousal and anxiety in FXS.
What makes a railway station safe and for whom? The impact of transit environments on passengers’ victimisation and safety perceptions
Authors: Ceccato Vania , Sundling Catherine , Gliori Gabriel
Published: May 2024

This study assesses patterns of victimisation and safety perceptions among passengers using railway stations across neighbouring municipalities in Sweden. Exploratory data analysis and logistic regression models underlie the methodology of the study, which shows that the geography of passengers’ victimisation differs from the geographical patterns found for the perception of safety. Findings show that passengers’ safety perceptions are more affected by the physical and social characteristics of transit environments than passengers’ victimisation. Yet, for those who have reduced mobility, the station affects the likelihood of their being victimised. Lack of staff and poor maintenance of the station are two significant attributes associated with the lower levels of safety perceived by passengers as well as levels of crime and panhandling at both the station and on the way to it. Compared with all passengers, women, but in particular those who identify as LGBTQI+ /Non-binary/Other, run a higher likelihood of feeling less safe. The theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.
The association of protein-bound methionine sulfoxide with proteomic basis for aging in beech seeds
Authors: Kalemba Ewa Marzena , Gevaert Kris , Impens Francis , Dufour Sara , Czerwoniec Anna
Published: May 2024

Background

European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) trees produce seeds irregularly; therefore, it is necessary to store beech seeds for forestation. Despite the acquisition of desiccation tolerance during development, beech seeds are classified as intermediate because they lose viability during long-term storage faster than typical orthodox seeds. In this study, beech seeds stored for short (3 years) or long (20 years) periods under optimal conditions and displaying 92 and 30% germination capacity, respectively, were compared.

Results

Aged seeds displayed increased membrane damage, manifested as electrolyte leakage and lipid peroxidation levels. Analyses have been based on embryonic axes, which contained higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and higher levels of protein-bound methionine sulfoxide (MetO) in aged seeds. Using label-free quantitative proteomics, 3,949 proteins were identified, of which 2,442 were reliably quantified pointing to 24 more abundant proteins and 35 less abundant proteins in beech seeds under long-term storage conditions. Functional analyses based on gene ontology annotations revealed that nucleic acid binding activity (molecular function), ribosome organization or biogenesis and transmembrane transport (cellular processes), translational proteins (protein class) and membranous anatomical entities (cellular compartment) were affected in aged seeds. To verify whether MetO, the oxidative posttranslational modification of proteins that can be reversed via the action of methionine sulfoxide reductase (Msr) enzymes, is involved in the aging of beech seeds, we identified and quantified 226 MetO-containing proteins, among which 9 and 19 exhibited significantly up- and downregulated MetO levels, respectively, in beech seeds under long-term storage conditions. Several Msr isoforms were identified and recognized as MsrA1-like, MsrA4, MsrB5 and MsrB5-like in beech seeds. Only MsrA1-like displayed decreased abundance in aged seeds.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that the loss of membrane integrity reflected in the elevated abundance of membrane proteins had a higher impact on seed aging progress than the MetO/Msr system. Proteome analyses enabled us to propose protein Sec61 and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase as potential longevity modulators in beech seeds.
Diversity of the Rysto gene conferring resistance to potato virus Y in wild relatives of potato
Authors: Paluchowska Paulina , Lim Rossmann Simeon , Lysøe Erik , Janiszewska Marta , Michalak Krystyna , Heydarnajad Giglou Rasoul , Torabi Giglou Mousa , Brurberg May Bente , Śliwka Jadwiga , Yin Zhimin
Published: May 2024

Background

Potato virus Y (PVY) is among the economically most damaging viral pathogen in production of potato (Solanum tuberosum) worldwide. The gene Rysto derived from the wild potato relative Solanum stoloniferum confers extreme resistance to PVY.

Results

The presence and diversity of Rysto were investigated in wild relatives of potato (298 genotypes representing 29 accessions of 26 tuber-bearing Solanum species) using PacBio amplicon sequencing. A total of 55 unique Rysto-like sequences were identified in 72 genotypes representing 12 accessions of 10 Solanum species and six resistant controls (potato cultivars Alicja, Bzura, Hinga, Nimfy, White Lady and breeding line PW363). The 55 Rysto-like sequences showed 89.87 to 99.98% nucleotide identity to the Rysto reference gene, and these encoded in total 45 unique protein sequences. While Rysto-like26 identified in Alicja, Bzura, White Lady and Rysto-like16 in PW363 encode a protein identical to the Rysto reference, the remaining 44 predicted Rysto-like proteins were 65.93 to 99.92% identical to the reference. Higher levels of diversity of the Rysto-like sequences were found in the wild relatives of potato than in the resistant control cultivars. The TIR and NB-ARC domains were the most conserved within the Rysto-like proteins, while the LRR and C-JID domains were more variable. Several Solanum species, including S. antipoviczii and S. hougasii, showed resistance to PVY. This study demonstrated Hyoscyamus niger, a Solanaceae species distantly related to Solanum, as a host of PVY.

Conclusions

The new Rysto-like variants and the identified PVY resistant potato genotypes are potential resistance sources against PVY in potato breeding. Identification of H. niger as a host for PVY is important for cultivation of this plant, studies on the PVY management, its ecology, and migrations. The amplicon sequencing based on PacBio SMRT and the following data analysis pipeline described in our work may be applied to obtain the nucleotide sequences and analyze any full-length genes from any, even polyploid, organisms.
Effect of digital game intervention on cognitive functions in older adults: a multiple baseline single case experimental design study
Authors: Yorozuya Kyosuke , Kubo Yuta , Fujii Keisuke , Nakashima Daiki , Nagayasu Taiki , Hayashi Hiroyuki , Sakai Kazuya , Amano Keiji
Published: May 2024

Background

Residents in nursing homes are prone to cognitive decline affecting memory, visuospatial cognition, and executive functions. Cognitive decline can lead to dementia, necessitating prioritized intervention.

Methods

The current study aimed to investigate whether an intervention using a digital game was effective for preserving and improving the cognitive function of residents in nursing homes. An intervention study was conducted using a single-case AB design with multiple baselines. The participants in the study were five older adults aged 65 and over who do not play digital games regularly. The study ran for 15 weeks, including a baseline (phase A) and an intervention phase (phase B). Phase A had five baselines (5 to 9 weeks) with random participant assignment. In phase B, participants engaged in a digital game (Space Invaders) individually. Cognitive function was assessed as the outcome, measured using the Brain Assessment (performed on a tablet through the Internet) at 16 measurement points. Four of five participants (two female and two male) were included in the analysis, using visual inspection and Bayesian statistics with multi-level modeling.

Results

Visual inspection of the graphs revealed cognitive function score improvements after the intervention for most layers in terms of memory of numbers, memory of words, mental rotation test (visuospatial ability), and total scores in the Brain Assessment. These effects were also significant in the analysis by multi-level modeling.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the use of digital games may be effective for preserving and improving cognitive function among residents of nursing home.

Trial registration

This study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000048677; public title: Effect of a Digital Game Intervention for Cognitive Functions in Older People; registration date: August 30, 2022).
The neighborhood food environment modifies the association between infant feeding and childhood obesity
Authors: Anderson Christopher E. , Whaley Shannon E. , Goran Michael I.
Published: May 2024

Background

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) issues infant formula to infants who are not fully breastfed, and prior research found elevated obesity risk among children receiving lactose-reduced infant formula with corn syrup solids (CSSF) issued by WIC. This study was conducted to evaluate associations between a broader set of specialty infant formulas issued by WIC and child obesity risk, whether neighborhood context (e.g. neighborhood food environment) modifies associations, and whether racial/ethnic disparities in obesity are partly explained by infant formula exposure and neighborhood context.

Methods

WIC administrative data, collected from 2013–2020 on issued amount (categorical: fully formula fed, mostly formula fed, mostly breastfed, fully breastfed) and type of infant formula (standard cow’s milk formula, and three specialty formulas: any CSSF, any soy-based formula, and any cow's milk-based formula with added rice starch) and obesity at ages 2–4 years (defined as a Body Mass Index z-score ≥ 95th percentile according to World Health Organization growth standard) were used to construct a cohort (n = 59,132). Associations of infant formula exposures and race/ethnicity with obesity risk were assessed in Poisson regression models, and modification of infant feeding associations with obesity by neighborhood context was assessed with interaction terms.

Results

Any infant formula exposure was associated with significantly higher obesity risk relative to fully breastfeeding. Receipt of a CSSF was associated with 5% higher obesity risk relative to the standard and other specialty infant formulas (risk ratio 1.05, 95% confidence interval 1.02, 1.08) independent of breastfeeding duration and receipt of other specialty infant formulas. The association between CSSF and obesity risk was stronger in neighborhoods with healthier food environments (10% higher risk) compared to less healthy food environments (null). Racial/ethnic disparities in obesity risk were robust to adjustment for infant formula exposure and neighborhood environment.

Conclusions

Among specialty infant formulas issued by WIC, only CSSFs were associated with elevated obesity risk, and this association was stronger in healthier food environments. Future research is needed to isolate the mechanism underlying this association.
Effect of erbium, chromium-doped: yttrium, scandium, gallium, and garnet laser-assisted periodontal therapy using radial firing tip during early healing period: a randomized controlled split-mouth clinical trial
Authors: Park Jung Soo , Jung Hannah , Ryu Jae-Jun , Koo Ki-Tae , Lee Jaebum
Published: May 2024

Background

This study aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of erbium, chromium-doped:yttrium, scandium, gallium, and garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser-assisted nonsurgical periodontal therapy in periodontitis patients during 8 weeks of healing.

Methods

A split-mouth, single-blinded, randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 12 patients diagnosed with stage III/IV periodontitis and had a minimum of two teeth with probing pocket depth (PPD) > 5 mm in at least two quadrants. Upon randomization, each quadrant was assigned for conventional scaling and root planing (SRP) procedure or laser-assisted therapy (SRP + laser) using radial firing tip (RFPT 5, Biolase). Clinical measurements and gingival crevicular fluid collection were performed for statistical analysis.

Results

In the initial statistical analysis on the whole subject teeth, modified gingival index (MGI) reduction was greater in test group at 1(P = 0.0153), 4 (P = 0.0318), and 8 weeks (P = 0.0047) compared to the control in the same period. PPD reduction at 4 weeks in test group was -1.67 ± 0.59 showing significant difference compared to the control (-1.37 ± 0.63, P = 0.0253). When teeth with mean PPD ≥5 mm were sorted, MGI decrease was significantly greater in test group at 1 (P=0.003) and 8 week (P=0.0102) follow-ups. PPD reduction was also significantly greater in test group at 4 week period (-1.98 ± 0.55 vs -1.58 ± 0.56, test vs control, P=0.0224).

Conclusions

Er,Cr:YSGG-assisted periodontal therapy is beneficial in MGI and PPD reductions during early healing period.
Working with a robot in hospital and long-term care homes: staff experience
Authors: Ren Lily Haopu , Wong Karen Lok Yi , Wong Joey , Kleiss Sarah , Berndt Annette , Mann Jim , Hussein Ali , Hu Grace , Wong Lily , Khong Ruth , Fu Jason , Ahmed Nazia , Nolte Julia , Hung Lillian
Published: May 2024

Although there is a growing literature on the use of telepresence robots in institutional dementia care settings, limited research focused on the perspectives of frontline staff members who deliver dementia care. Our objective was to understand staff perspectives on using telepresence robots to support residents with dementia and their families. Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we conducted four focus groups and 11 semi-structured interviews across four long-term care (LTC) homes and one hospital in Canada. We included 22 interdisciplinary staff members (e.g., registered nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, recreational therapists) to understand their experiences with telepresence robots. Thematic analysis identified three key themes: 1) Staff Training and Support; 2) Robot Features; 3) Environmental dynamics for Implementation. Our results underscore the imperative of structural support at micro-, meso- and macro-levels for staff in dementia care settings to effectively implement technology. This study contributes to future research and practice by elucidating factors facilitating staff involvement in technology research, integrating staff voices into technology implementation planning, and devising strategies to provide structural support to staff, care teams, and care homes.
Pigs in southern Italy are exposed to three ruminant pathogens: an analysis of seroprevalence and risk factors analysis study
Authors: Ferrara Gianmarco , Pagnini Ugo , Improda Elvira , Iovane Giuseppe , Montagnaro Serena
Published: May 2024

Background

Pigs are susceptible to several ruminant pathogens, including Coxiella burnetti, Schmallenberg virus (SBV) and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). These pathogens have already been described in the pig population, although the dynamics of the infection and the impact on pig farms are currently unclear. The aim of this work was to evaluate the presence of these infections in the pig population of the Campania region, southern Italy, and to evaluate the risk factors associated with a greater risk of exposure.

Results

A total of 414 serum samples belonging to 32 herds were tested for the presence of antibodies against SBV, Coxiella, and BVD using commercial multispecies ELISA kits. SBV (5.3%) was the most prevalent pathogen, followed by Coxiella (4.1%) and BVD (3%). The risk factors included in the study (age, sex, province, farming system, ruminant density and major ruminant species) had no influence on the probability of being exposed to BVD and Coxiella, except for the location, in fact more pigs seropositive to Coxiella were found in the province of Caserta. However, the univariate analysis highlighted the influence of age, location, and sex on exposure to SBV. The subsequent multivariate analysis statistically confirmed the importance of these factors. The presence of neutralizing antibodies for SBV and BVDV, or antibodies directed towards a specific phase of infection for Coxiella was further confirmed with virus-neutralization assays and phase-specific ELISAs in a large proportion of positive samples. The presence of high neutralizing antibody titers (especially for SBV) could indicate recent exposures. Twelve of the 17 positive samples tested positive for antibodies against Coxiella phase I or II antigens, indicating the presence of both acute and chronic infections (one animal tested positive for both phases antibodies).

Conclusions

Our study indicates a non-negligible exposure of pigs from southern Italy to the above pathogens. Further studies are necessary to fully understand the dynamics of these infections in pigs, the impact on productivity, and the public health consequences in the case of Coxiella.