bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The study of bone mineral density measured by quantitative computed tomography in middle-aged and elderly men with abnormal glucose metabolism
Authors: Zhang Pei , Huang Xiaofeng , Gong Yanping , Lu Yanhui , Liu Minyan , Cheng Xiaoling , Li Nan , Li Chunlin
Published: July 2022

Background

To investigate the value of quantitative computed tomography (QCT) measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) in middle-aged and elderly men with abnormal blood glucose.

Methods

Total 138 men aged above 50 years old with routine physical examination were involved in the study. All participants were evaluated with serological index, BMD by QCT and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Statistical analysis was conducted by χ2 test and regression model.

Results

All individuals were divided into normal blood glucose (NBG) group and abnormal blood glucose (ABG) group. Compared with NBG group, BMD detected by QCT was obviously lower in ABG group (P < 0.05). More cases with low bone mass or osteoporosis were detected by QCT measurement than DXA (χ2 = 56.618, P = 0.000), which were consistent in both NBG and ABG groups (χ2 was 33.564 and 23.250, P = 0.000). No significant difference of detection rates was found in both subgroups neither by QCT nor DXA measurement (χ2 = 4.204, P = 0.122). Regression analysis revealed that ABG was negatively associated with BMD assessed by QCT (β = -0.217, P < 0.05), which did not show statistical difference after adjusting for age.

Conclusion

In middle-aged and elderly male patients with NBG or ABG, QCT manifests higher detection rates of low bone mass and osteoporosis than DXA. ABG is negatively correlated with BMD measured by QCT, which is affected by age.
A conversational agent system for dietary supplements use
Authors: Singh Esha , Bompelli Anu , Wan Ruyuan , Bian Jiang , Pakhomov Serguei , Zhang Rui
Published: July 2022

Background

Dietary supplements (DS) have been widely used by consumers, but the information around the efficacy and safety of DS is disparate or incomplete, thus creating barriers for consumers to find information effectively. Conversational agent (CA) systems have been applied to healthcare domain, but there is no such system to answer consumers regarding DS use, although widespread use of DS. In this study, we develop the first CA system for DS use.

Methods

Our CA system for DS use developed on the MindMeld framework, consists of three components: question understanding, DS knowledge base, and answer generation. We collected and annotated 1509 questions to develop a natural language understanding module (e.g., question type classifier, named entity recognizer) which was then integrated into MindMeld framework. CA then queries the DS knowledge base (i.e., iDISK) and generates answers using rule-based slot filling techniques. We evaluated the algorithms of each component and the CA system as a whole.

Results

CNN is the best question classifier with an F1 score of 0.81, and CRF is the best named entity recognizer with an F1 score of 0.87. The system achieves an overall accuracy of 81% and an average score of 1.82 with succ@3 + score of 76.2% and succ@2 + of 66% approximately.

Conclusion

This study develops the first CA system for DS use using the MindMeld framework and iDISK domain knowledge base.
Implementing clinical pharmacy activities in hospital setting in Vietnam: current status from a national survey
Authors: Dong Phuong Thi Xuan , Trinh Hieu Trung , Nguyen Duy Huu , Nguyen Son Tu , Pham Van Thi Thuy , Ngo Ha Bich , Hua Susan , Li Shu Chuen , Nguyen Huong Thi Lien
Published: July 2022

Background

Clinical pharmacy activities have evolved over the past decades contributing to all stages of the patient care process, especially in the hospital setting. However, these practice roles may differ to a significant extent depending on the healthcare policy of countries. In Vietnam, the magnitude of adopting clinical pharmacy activities in hospital settings throughout the country is still unknown since these activities have been implemented. This study aimed to ascertain the current status of clinical pharmacy activities performed within the Vietnamese hospital setting.

Methods

A nation-wide survey was conducted from December 2017 to January 2018. Two online questionnaires, one for the Heads of Pharmacy Department and one for clinical pharmacists, were designed based on the national legal regulations about implementing clinical pharmacy activities in the hospital setting. These questionnaires were sent to all hospitals and healthcare facilities with a department of pharmacy.

Results

A total of 560 Heads of Pharmacy and 574 clinical pharmacists participated in the study, representing a response rate of 41.2%. Among the participating hospitals, non-patient specific activities were implemented widely across all hospital classes, with pharmacovigilance, medication information, and standard operating procedures development implemented in ≥88% of all hospitals. In contrast, there was a significant variation in the level of implementation of patient-specific activities among hospital classes. With activities such as medication counselling, monitoring of adverse drug reactions, and obtaining patient’s medication histories provided at a considerably lower level in between 49 and 57% of hospitals.

Conclusion

Clinical pharmacy activities have been initiated in most of the surveyed hospitals. In general, clinical pharmacy is more established in higher-class hospitals in Vietnam. However, the current implementation status is focused on non-patient-specific activities, while patient-oriented activities remained insufficiently established.
Genome of the hoverfly Eupeodes corollae provides insights into the evolution of predation and pollination in insects
Authors: Yuan He , Gao Bojia , Wu Chao , Zhang Lei , Li Hui , Xiao Yutao , Wu Kongming
Published: July 2022

Background

Hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphidae) includingEupeodes corollaeare important insects worldwide that provide dual ecosystem services including pest control and pollination. The larvae are dominant predators of aphids and can be used as biological control agents, and the adults are efficient pollinators. The different feeding habits of larvae and adults make hoverflies a valuable genetic resource for understanding the mechanisms underlying the evolution and adaptation to predation and pollination in insects.

Results

Here, we present a 595-Mb high-quality reference genome of the hoverflyE. corollae, which is typical of an aphid predator and a pollinator. Comparative genomic analyses ofE. corollaeand Coccinellidae (ladybugs, aphid predators) shed light ontakeoutgenes (3), which are involved in circadian rhythms and feeding behavior and might regulate the feeding behavior ofE. corollaein a circadian manner. Genes for sugar symporter (12) and lipid transport (7) related to energy production inE. corollaehad homologs in pollinator honeybees and were absent in predatory ladybugs. A number of classical cytochrome P450 detoxification genes, mainly CYP6 subfamily members, were greatly expanded inE. corollae. Notably, comparative genomic analyses ofE. corollaeand other aphidophagous hoverflies highlighted three homologous trypsins (Ecor12299, Ecor12301, Ecor2966). Transcriptome analysis showed that nine trypsins, including Ecor12299, Ecor12301, and Ecor2966, are strongly expressed at the larval stage, and 10 opsin genes, which are involved in visual perception, are significantly upregulated at the adult stage ofE. corollae.

Conclusions

The high-quality genome assembly provided new insights into the genetic basis of predation and pollination byE. corollaeand is a valuable resource for advancing studies on genetic adaptations and evolution of hoverflies and other natural enemies.
Experiences and perceptions of care-seeking for febrile illness among caregivers, pregnant women, and health providers in eight districts of Madagascar
Authors: Favero Rachel , Dentinger Catherine M. , Rakotovao Jean Pierre , Kapesa Laurent , Andriamiharisoa Haja , Steinhardt Laura C. , Randrianarisoa Bakoly , Sethi Reena , Gomez Patricia , Razafindrakoto Jocelyn , Razafimandimby Eliane , Andrianandraina Ralaivaomisa , Andriamananjara Mauricette Nambinisoa , Ravaoarinosy Aimée , Mioramalala Sedera Aurélien , Rawlins Barbara
Published: July 2022

Background

Prompt diagnosis and treatment of malaria contributes to reduced morbidity, particularly among children and pregnant women; however, in Madagascar, care-seeking for febrile illness is often delayed. To describe factors influencing decisions for prompt care-seeking among caregivers of children aged < 15 years and pregnant women, a mixed-methods assessment was conducted with providers (HP), community health volunteers (CHV) and community members.

Methods

One health district from each of eight malaria-endemic zones of Madagascar were purposefully selected based on reported higher malaria transmission. Within districts, one urban and one rural community were randomly selected for participation. In-depth interviews (IDI) and focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted with caregivers, pregnant women, CHVs and HPs in these 16 communities to describe practices and, for HPs, system characteristics that support or inhibit care-seeking. Knowledge tests on malaria case management guidelines were administered to HPs, and logistics management systems were reviewed.

Results

Participants from eight rural and eight urban communities included 31 HPs from 10 public and 8 private Health Facilities (HF), five CHVs, 102 caregivers and 90 pregnant women. All participants in FGDs and IDIs reported that care-seeking for fever is frequently delayed until the ill person does not respond to home treatment or symptoms become more severe. Key care-seeking determinants for caregivers and pregnant women included cost, travel time and distance, and perception that the quality of care in HFs was poor. HPs felt that lack of commodities and heavy workloads hindered their ability to provide quality malaria care services. Malaria commodities were generally more available in public versus private HFs. CHVs were generally not consulted for malaria care and had limited commodities.

Conclusions

Reducing cost and travel time to care and improving the quality of care may increase prompt care-seeking among vulnerable populations experiencing febrile illness. For patients, perceptions and quality of care could be improved with more reliable supplies, extended HF operating hours and staffing, supportive demeanors of HPs and seeking care with CHVs. For providers, malaria services could be improved by increasing the reliability of supply chains and providing additional staffing. CHVs may be an under-utilized resource for sick children.
Serinc2 deficiency causes susceptibility to sepsis-associated acute lung injury
Authors: Mao Shuai , Lv Jian , Chen Meng , Guo Ningning , Fang Yu , Tong Jingjing , He Xianghu , Wu Gang , Wang Zhihua
Published: July 2022

Background

Severe sepsis and its subsequent complications cause high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. The lung is one of the most vulnerable organs sensitive to the sepsis-associated inflammatory storm and usually develops into acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)/acute lung injury (ALI). The pathogenesis of sepsis-associated ALI is accompanied by coordinated transmembrane signal transduction and subsequent programmed cell death; however, the underlying mechanism remains largely unclear.

Results

Here we find that the expression of serine incorporator 2 (Serinc2), a protein involved in phosphatidylserine synthesis and membrane incorporation, is upregulated in cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced ALI. Furthermore, the Serinc2-knockout (KO) mouse line is generated by the CRISPR-cas9 approach. Compared with wild-type mice, the Serinc2-KO mice exhibit exacerbated ALI-related pathologies after CLP. The expressions of pro-inflammatory factors, including IL1β, IL6, TNFα, and MCP1, are significantly enhanced by Serinc2 deficiency, concurrent with over-activation of STAT3, p38 and ERK pathways. Conversely, Serinc2 overexpression in RAW264.7 cells significantly suppresses the inflammatory responses induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Serinc2 KO aggravates CLP-induced apoptosis as evidenced by increases in TUNEL-positive staining, Bax expression, and cleaved caspase-3 and decreases in BCL-2 expression and Akt phosphorylation, whereas these changes are suppressed by Serinc2 overexpression in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, the administration of AKTin, an inhibitor of Akt, abolishes the protective effects of Serinc2 overexpression against inflammation and apoptosis.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate a protective role of Serinc2 in the lung through activating the Akt pathway, and provide novel insight into the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced ALI.
Lipid-coated albumin-paclitaxel nanoparticles loaded with sorcin-siRNA reverse cancer chemoresistance via restoring intracellular calcium ion homeostasis
Authors: Wang Chenglong , Xu Xiaolin , Zhang Peipei , Xiong Shuhan , Yuan Jia , Gao Xuzhu , Guan Wencai , Wang Fanchen , Li Xin , Dou Hongjing , Xu Guoxiong
Published: July 2022

Chemoresistance is often a cause of the failure of chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Sorcin (SRI) is a soluble resistance-related calcium-binding protein involved in chemoresistant processes and is overexpressed in many chemoresistant cancer cells, including paclitaxel (PTX)-resistant ovarian cancer. Increased SRI can reduce the concentration of calcium ions in the cytosol and mitochondria and the decrease of calcium ion concentration prevents the occurrence of apoptosis. Here we examined the SRI expression in multiple cancers using a human TissueArray and found that SRI expression was significantly higher in malignant tumor tissues. Furthermore, SRI was overexpressed, while intracellular calcium concentration was decreased, in chemoresistant cancer cells. To restore intracellular calcium homeostasis and overcome chemoresistance, we developed lipid-coated albumin-PTX nanoparticles loaded with SRI-siRNA (LANP-PTX-siSRI) for PTX and SRI-siRNA co-delivery. LANP-PTX-siSRI had dual-target roles in the regulation of SRI and the delivery of PTX into chemoresistant cells. The LANP-PTX-siSRI inhibited the expression of SRI and enhanced intracellular calcium, leading to the induction of apoptosis and the inhibition of the growth of PTX-resistant cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the mechanism study revealed that the overexpression of SRI was associated with an impaired TGF-β signaling pathway. The administration of TGF-β1 inhibited two calcium-binding proteins SRI and S100A14. In conclusion, our data unveil that restoring intracellular calcium ion homeostasis via reducing SRI expression can reverse chemoresistance. Thus, the fabricated LANP-PTX-siSRI has a potentially therapeutical application.
Behaviour change techniques in cardiovascular disease smartphone apps to improve physical activity and sedentary behaviour: Systematic review and meta-regression
Authors: Patterson Kacie , Davey Rachel , Keegan Richard , Kunstler Brea , Woodward Andrew , Freene Nicole
Published: July 2022

Background

Smartphone apps are increasingly used to deliver physical activity and sedentary behaviour interventions for people with cardiovascular disease. However, the active components of these interventions which aim to change behaviours are unclear.

Aims

To identify behaviour change techniques used in smartphone app interventions for improving physical activity and sedentary behaviour in people with cardiovascular disease. Secondly, to investigate the association of the identified techniques on improving these behaviours.

Methods

Six databases (Medline, CINAHL Plus, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, Sports Discus, EMBASE) were searched from 2007 to October 2020. Eligible studies used a smartphone app intervention for people with cardiovascular disease and reported a physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour outcome. The behaviour change techniques used within the apps for physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour were coded using the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy (v1). The association of behaviour change techniques on physical activity outcomes were explored through meta-regression.

Results

Forty behaviour change techniques were identified across the 19 included app-based interventions. Only two studies reported the behaviour change techniques used to target sedentary behaviour change. The most frequently used techniques for sedentary behaviour and physical activity were habit reversal and self-monitoring of behaviour respectively. In univariable analyses, action planning (β =0.42, 90%CrI 0.07–0.78) and graded tasks (β =0.33, 90%CrI -0.04-0.67) each had medium positive associations with increasing physical activity. Participants in interventions that used either self-monitoring outcome(s) of behaviour (i.e. outcomes other than physical activity) (β = − 0.47, 90%CrI -0.79--0.16), biofeedback (β = − 0.47, 90%CrI -0.81--0.15) and information about health consequences (β = − 0.42, 90%CrI -0.74--0.07) as behaviour change techniques, appeared to do less physical activity. In the multivariable model, these predictors were not clearly removed from zero.

Conclusion

The behaviour change techniques action planning and graded tasks are good candidates for causal testing in future experimental smartphone app designs.
Reshaping the systemic tumor immune environment (STIE) and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) to enhance immunotherapy efficacy in solid tumors
Authors: Xu Liangliang , Zou Chang , Zhang Shanshan , Chu Timothy Shun Man , Zhang Yan , Chen Weiwei , Zhao Caining , Yang Li , Xu Zhiyuan , Dong Shaowei , Yu Hao , Li Bo , Guan Xinyuan , Hou Yuzhu , Kong Feng-Ming
Published: July 2022

The development of combination immunotherapy based on the mediation of regulatory mechanisms of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) is promising. However, a deep understanding of tumor immunology must involve the systemic tumor immune environment (STIE) which was merely illustrated previously. Here, we aim to review recent advances in single-cell transcriptomics and spatial transcriptomics for the studies of STIE, TIME, and their interactions, which may reveal heterogeneity in immunotherapy responses as well as the dynamic changes essential for the treatment effect. We review the evidence from preclinical and clinical studies related to TIME, STIE, and their significance on overall survival, through different immunomodulatory pathways, such as metabolic and neuro-immunological pathways. We also evaluate the significance of the STIE, TIME, and their interactions as well as changes after local radiotherapy and systemic immunotherapy or combined immunotherapy. We focus our review on the evidence of lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, aiming to reshape STIE and TIME to enhance immunotherapy efficacy.
Intravenous IgM-enriched immunoglobulins in critical COVID-19: a multicentre propensity-weighted cohort study
Authors: Rahmel Tim , Kraft Felix , Haberl Helge , Achtzehn Ute , Brandenburger Timo , Neb Holger , Jarczak Dominik , Dietrich Maximilian , Magunia Harry , Zimmer Frieda , Basten Jale , Landgraf Claudia , Koch Thea , Zacharowski Kai , Weigand Markus A. , Rosenberger Peter , Ullrich Roman , Meybohm Patrick , Nierhaus Axel , Kindgen-Milles Detlef , Timmesfeld Nina , Adamzik Michael
Published: July 2022

Background

A profound inflammation-mediated lung injury with long-term acute respiratory distress and high mortality is one of the major complications of critical COVID-19. Immunoglobulin M (IgM)-enriched immunoglobulins seem especially capable of mitigating the inflicted inflammatory harm. However, the efficacy of intravenous IgM-enriched preparations in critically ill patients with COVID-19 is largely unclear.

Methods

In this retrospective multicentric cohort study, 316 patients with laboratory-confirmed critical COVID-19 were treated in ten German and Austrian ICUs between May 2020 and April 2021. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Analysis was performed by Cox regression models. Covariate adjustment was performed by propensity score weighting using machine learning-based SuperLearner to overcome the selection bias due to missing randomization. In addition, a subgroup analysis focusing on different treatment regimens and patient characteristics was performed.

Results

Of the 316 ICU patients, 146 received IgM-enriched immunoglobulins and 170 cases did not, which served as controls. There was no survival difference between the two groups in terms of mortality at 30 days in the overall cohort (HRadj: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.55 to 1.25; p = 0.374). An improved 30-day survival in patients without mechanical ventilation at the time of the immunoglobulin treatment did not reach statistical significance (HRadj: 0.23; 95% CI: 0.05 to 1.08; p = 0.063). Also, no statistically significant difference was observed in the subgroup when a daily dose of ≥ 15 g and a duration of ≥ 3 days of IgM-enriched immunoglobulins were applied (HRadj: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.41 to 1.03; p = 0.068).

Conclusions

Although we cannot prove a statistically reliable effect of intravenous IgM-enriched immunoglobulins, the confidence intervals may suggest a clinically relevant effect in certain subgroups. Here, an early administration (i.e. in critically ill but not yet mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients) and a dose of ≥ 15 g for at least 3 days may confer beneficial effects without concerning safety issues. However, these findings need to be validated in upcoming randomized clinical trials.

Trial registrationDRKS00025794, German Clinical Trials Register, https://www.drks.de. Registered 6 July 2021.
Gasdermin-D activation by SARS-CoV-2 triggers NET and mediate COVID-19 immunopathology
Authors: Silva Camila Meirelles S. , Wanderley Carlos Wagner S. , Veras Flavio Protasio , Gonçalves Augusto Velozo , Lima Mikhael Haruo Fernandes , Toller-Kawahisa Juliana Escher , Gomes Giovanni Freitas , Nascimento Daniele Carvalho , Monteiro Valter V. Silva , Paiva Isadora Marques , Almeida Cícero José Luíz Ramos , Caetité Diego Brito , Silva Juliana Costa , Lopes Maria Isabel Fernandes , Bonjorno Letícia Pastorelli , Giannini Marcela Cavichioli , Amaral Natalia Brasil , Benatti Maíra Nilson , Santana Rodrigo Carvalho , Damasceno Luis Eduardo Alves , Silva Bruna Manuella Souza , Schneider Ayda Henriques , Castro Icaro Maia Santos , Silva Juan Carlo Santos , Vasconcelos Amanda Pereira , Gonçalves Tiago Tomazini , Batah Sabrina Setembre , Rodrigues Tamara Silva , Costa Victor Ferreira , Pontelli Marjorie Cornejo , Martins Ronaldo B. , Martins Timna Varela , Espósito Danillo Lucas Alves , Cebinelli Guilherme Cesar Martelossi , da Fonseca Benedito Antônio Lopes , Leiria Luiz Osório Silveira , Cunha Larissa Dias , Arruda Eurico , Nakaia Helder I. , Fabro Alexandre Todorovic , Oliveira Rene D. R. , Zamboni Dario S. , Louzada-Junior Paulo , Cunha Thiago Mattar , Alves-Filho José Carlos Farias , Cunha Fernando Queiroz
Published: July 2022

Background

The release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) is associated with inflammation, coagulopathy, and organ damage found in severe cases of COVID-19. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the release of NETs in COVID-19 remain unclear.

Objectives

We aim to investigate the role of the Gasdermin-D (GSDMD) pathway on NETs release and the development of organ damage during COVID-19.

Methods

We performed a single-cell transcriptome analysis in public data of bronchoalveolar lavage. Then, we enrolled 63 hospitalized patients with moderate and severe COVID-19. We analyze in blood and lung tissue samples the expression of GSDMD, presence of NETs, and signaling pathways upstreaming. Furthermore, we analyzed the treatment with disulfiram in a mouse model of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Results

We found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus directly activates the pore-forming protein GSDMD that triggers NET production and organ damage in COVID-19. Single-cell transcriptome analysis revealed that the expression of GSDMD and inflammasome-related genes were increased in COVID-19 patients. High expression of active GSDMD associated with NETs structures was found in the lung tissue of COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, we showed that activation of GSDMD in neutrophils requires active caspase1/4 and live SARS-CoV-2, which infects neutrophils. In a mouse model of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the treatment with disulfiram inhibited NETs release and reduced organ damage.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated that GSDMD-dependent NETosis plays a critical role in COVID-19 immunopathology and suggests GSDMD as a novel potential target for improving the COVID-19 therapeutic strategy.
Halting the Canadian STRIDER randomised controlled trial of sildenafil for severe, early-onset fetal growth restriction: ethical, methodological, and pragmatic considerations
Authors: von Dadelszen Peter , Audibert François , Bujold Emmanuel , Bone Jeffrey N. , Sandhu Ash , Li Jing , Kariya Chirag , Chung Youkee , Lee Tang , Au Kelvin , Skoll M. Amanda , Vidler Marianne , Magee Laura A. , Piedboeuf Bruno , Baker Philip N. , Lalji Sayrin , Lim Kenneth I.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To determine the efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate to improve outcomes in pregnancies complicated by early-onset, dismal prognosis, fetal growth restriction (FGR). Eligibility: women ≥ 18 years, singleton, 18 + 0–27 + 6 weeks’ gestation, estimated fetal weight < 700 g, low PLFG, and ≥ 1 of (i) abdominal circumference < 10th percentile for gestational age (GA); or (ii) reduced growth velocity and either abnormal uterine artery Doppler or prior early-onset FGR with adverse outcome. Ineligibility criteria included: planned termination or reversed umbilical artery end-diastolic flow. Eligibility confirmed by placental growth factor (PlGF) < 5 th percentile for GA measured post randomization. Women randomly received (1:1) either sildenafil 25 mg three times daily or matched placebo until either delivery or 31 + 6 weeks. Primary outcome: delivery GA. The trial stopped early when Dutch STRIDER signalled potential harm; despite distinct eligibility criteria and IRB and DSMB support to continue, because of futility. NCT02442492 [registered 13/05/2015].

Results

Between May 2017 and June 2018, 21 (90 planned) women were randomised [10 sildenafil; 11 placebo (1 withdrawal)]. Baseline characteristics, PlGF levels, maternal and perinatal outcomes, and adverse events did not differ. Delivery GA: 26 + 6 weeks (sildenafil) vs 29 + 2 weeks (placebo); p = 0.200. Data will contribute to an individual participant data meta-analysis.
Effect of high temperature on Wolbachia density and impact on cytoplasmic incompatibility in confused flour beetle, Tribolium confusum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Gharabigloozare Yeganeh , Bleidorn Christoph
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Environmental constraints, especially temperature, have been identified as a key in understanding host-symbiont relationships, as they can directly impact the fitness of the symbiont population and the host development. Here we investigated the effect of temperature during the host development on the density of intracellular bacteria of the Wolbachia, wTcon strain within the confused flour beetle, Tribolium confusum. The wTcon can induce a complete cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) in T. confusum beetles; therefore, we observed the effect of heat stress on the symbiont-mediated CI.

Results

The density of CI inducing Wolbachia in the Tribolium confusum is temperature-specific. Our observation of the beetles reared in five different temperatures (30–34 °C) measured the highest Wolbachia density at 30–31 °C and lowest at 34 °C within a single insect generation. In this species, changes in the density of Wolbachia related to higher temperature did not influence CI. However, the fertility of beetles reared in higher temperatures showed a substantial decrease in the number of laid and hatched eggs. Thus, we can confirm the effect of high temperature on lowering the wTcon density and no impact on induction of cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) in T. confusum beetles.
Changes in home visit utilization during the COVID-19 pandemic: a multicenter cross-sectional web-based survey
Authors: Hamano Jun , Tachikawa Hirokazu , Takahashi Sho , Ekoyama Saori , Nagaoka Hiroka , Ozone Sachiko , Masumoto Shoichi , Hosoi Takahiro , Arai Tetsuaki
Published: July 2022

Objective

Home care is one of the essential community health care services; thus, identifying changes of home care utilization before and during the COVID-19 pandemic would be useful for researchers and policymaker to reconsider the home care system, the support needed for home care staff, and the collaborative system with hospitals in the COVID-19 era. We conducted a multicenter cross-sectional web-based anonymous survey of the directors of home visit facilities in Japan in August 2021.

Results

A total of 33 participants from 37 facilities responded to the survey. The number of patients dying at home and newly requested home visits increased during the COVID-19 pandemic (74.2%, 71.0%). One possible reason was the restricted visitation of inpatient facilities (93.5%). The underlying disease that the largest number of participants perceived as having increased compared with before the COVID-19 pandemic was cancer (51.6%). There were no significant differences in being in a rural area or the number of doctors in perceived changes in home visit utilization. Our study indicated that the director of home visit facilities thought the number of patients dying at home and newly requested home visits had increased compared with before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Relative contributions of six lifestyle- and health-related exposures to epigenetic aging: the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study
Authors: Kim Kyeezu , Zheng Yinan , Joyce Brian T. , Jiang Hongmei , Greenland Philip , Jacobs David R. , Zhang Kai , Liu Lei , Allen Norrina B. , Wilkins John T. , Forrester Sarah N. , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Hou Lifang
Published: July 2022

Background

DNA methylation-based GrimAge acceleration (GrimAA) is associated with a wide range of age-related health outcomes including cardiovascular disease. Since DNA methylation is modifiable by external and behavioral exposures, it is important to identify which of these exposures may have the strongest contributions to differences in GrimAA, to help guide potential intervention strategies. Here, we assessed the relative contributions of lifestyle- and health-related components, as well as their collective association, to GrimAA.

Results

We included 744 participants (391 men and 353 women) from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study with blood DNA methylation information at CARDIA Exam Year (Y) 20 (2005–2006, mean age 45.9 years). Six cumulative exposures by Y20 were included in the analysis: total packs of cigarettes, total alcohol consumption, education years, healthy diet score, sleep hours, and physical activity. We used quantile-based g-computation (QGC) and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) methods to assess the relative contribution of each exposure to a single overall association with GrimAA. We also assessed the collective association of the six components combined with GrimAA. Smoking showed the greatest positive contribution to GrimAA, accounting for 83.5% of overall positive associations of the six exposures with GrimAA (QGC weight = 0.835). The posterior inclusion probability (PIP) of smoking also achieved the highest score of 1.0 from BKMR analysis. Healthy diet and education years showed inverse contributions to GrimAA. We observed a U-shaped pattern in the contribution of alcohol consumption to GrimAA. While smoking was the greatest contributor across sex and race subgroups, the relative contributions of other components varied by subgroups.

Conclusions

Smoking, alcohol consumption, and education showed the highest contributions to GrimAA in our study. Higher amounts of smoking and alcohol consumption were likely to contribute to greater GrimAA, whereas achieved education was likely to contribute to lower GrimAA. Identifying pertinent lifestyle- and health-related exposures in a context of collective components can provide direction for intervention strategies and suggests which components should be the primary focus for promoting younger GrimAA.
Arterial spin labeling of nasopharyngeal carcinoma shows early therapy response
Authors: Liu Jun , Zhu Juan , Wang Yaxian , Wang Fei , Yang Hualin , Wang Nan , Chu Qingyun , Yang Qing
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study aimed to determine the value of arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion imaging in assessing the early efficacy of chemoradiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

Fifty-five patients with locoregionally advanced NPC underwent conventional 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ASL before and after chemoradiotherapy (prescribed dose reached 40 Gy). Based on the response evaluation criteria for solid tumors (RECIST 1.1), the patients were divided into the partial response and stable disease groups. MRI re-examination was performed one month after chemoradiotherapy completion, and patients were divided into residual and non-residual groups. We investigated inter-group differences in ASL-based tumor blood flow (TBF) parameters (pre-treatment tumor blood flow, post-treatment tumor blood flow, and changes in tumor blood flow, i.e., Pre-TBF, Post-TBF, ΔTBF), correlation between TBF parameters and tumor atrophy rate, and value of TBF parameters in predicting sensitivity to chemoradiotherapy.

Results

There were differences in Pre-TBF, Post-TBF, and ΔTBF between the partial response and stable disease groups (p < 0.01). There were also differences in Pre-TBF and ΔTBF between the residual and non-residual groups (p < 0.01). Pre-TBF and ΔTBF were significantly correlated with the tumor atrophy rate; the correlation coefficients were 0.677 and 0.567, respectively (p < 0.01). Pre-TBF had high diagnostic efficacies in predicting sensitivity to chemoradiotherapy and residual tumors, with areas under the curve of 0.845 and 0.831, respectively.

Conclusion

ASL permits a noninvasive approach to predicting the early efficacy of chemoradiotherapy for NPC.
T2 relaxation time for the early prediction of treatment response to chemoradiation in locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Ge Yuxi , Jia Yanlong , Li Xiaohong , Dou Weiqiang , Chen Zhong , Yan Gen
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Poor responders to chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) can still have a good prognosis if the treatment strategy is changed in time. However, no reliable predictor of early-treatment response has been identified. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of T2 relaxation time in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the early prediction of a pathological response to CRT in LARC.

Methods

A total of 123 MRIs were performed on 41 LARC patients immediately before, during, and after CRT. The corresponding tumor volume, T2 relaxation time, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values at different scan time points were obtained. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare the T2 relaxation time between pathological good responders (GR) and non-good responders (non-GR). The area under the curve (AUC) value was used to quantify the diagnostic ability of each parameter in predicting tumor response to CRT.

Results

Twenty-one (51%) and 20 (49%) were GRs and non-GRs, respectively. T2 relaxation time showed an excellent intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of > 0.85 at three-time points. It was significantly lower in the GR group than in the non-GR group during and after CRT. The early T2 decrease had a high AUC of 0.91 in differentiating non-GRs and GRs, similar to 0.90 of the T2 value after CRT.

Conclusions

T2 relaxation time may help predict treatment response to CRT for LARC earlier, rather than having to wait until the end of CRT, thereby alleviating the physical burden for patients with no good response.
Machine learning-based cloud IOT platform for intelligent tourism information services
Authors: Bi Fangfei , Liu Haotian
Published: July 2022

Thanks to the continuous development of the tourism industry, the application of Internet of things (IoT) begins to boom among modern tourists. Smart tourism utilizes Internet of things to facilitate the information dissemination and exchange, making IoT technology an indispensable part of next-generation travelling tool kits. In this paper, based on visitor selection behavior, we develop a hybrid intelligent categorization approach. Particularly, our proposed method of categorization could help tourists decide whether or not to visit a sightseeing attraction in a minutes. Cross-validation testing and performance assessment show that our designed platform can work effectively and efficiently by considering a variety of factors.
Multimorbidity patterns and function among adults in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Berner Karina , Tawa Nassib , Louw Quinette
Published: July 2022

Background

A fifth of adults in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have multimorbid conditions, which are linked to socio-economic deprivation and aging. Multimorbidity is associated with high rates of functional problems and disability, increased healthcare utilization, and lower quality of life. Literature on multimorbidity and associations with function is mostly from high-income countries (HICs) and focused among older adults. Moreover, data regarding disease patterns and their impact on person-centered outcomes are limited. There is a need for research into understanding common patterns of multimorbidity, and their association with functional impairments, particularly in LMICs. Such information may contribute towards evidence-based and context-relevant strategic policy, planning, and delivery models for health and rehabilitation services, which is imperative in attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The planned scoping review aims to provide an overview of the scope and nature of existing literature on multimorbidity patterns and function among adults in LMICs.

Methods

A scoping review will be conducted using a five-step framework and reported according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive electronic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, EBSCOhost, Scielo, Cochrane and Google Scholar will be conducted and updated from the last pilot search ran in September 2020. Studies of any design will be included if they are reported in English, published (between January 1976 and the last search date) in a peer-reviewed journal, and describe multimorbidity patterns and associations with physical functional impairments, activity limitations or participation restrictions among adults in LMICs. Search results will be independently screened by two reviewers and data extraction will cover study characteristics, participants’ characteristics, multimorbidity measures, patterns analysis, and functional measures. Descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis will be used to synthesize and summarize findings.

Discussion

Patients with multimorbidity have unique and cross-cutting needs, hence the need for integrated and person-centered approaches to policy, planning, and delivery of medical and rehabilitation services. Considering the shift towards UHC and primary healthcare-led management of chronic diseases, the proposed scoping review is timely. Findings will provide insights into the current extent and scope of multimorbidity research, and guide future inquiry in the field.

Trial registration

Open Science Framework (OSF), https://osf.io/gcy7z/
Optimal transmission of messages in computer networks – an optimal control problem involving control-dependent time-delayed arguments
Authors: Wong Kar-hung , Lee Yu-chung Eugene , Lee Heung-wing Joseph
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we find the optimal transmission of messages in computer networks. This problem has been formulated as a nondelayed optimal control problem in several recent papers on TCP (transmission control protocol). Since the actual transmission of messages from origins to destinations should consist of both forward transmission delays of the buffers and latency of the links, we remodel the problem as a time-delayed optimal control problem consisting of both control-dependent time-delayed arguments and discrete time-delayed arguments. We then develop a modified control parameterization method for solving this time-delayed optimal control problem. The gradients of the new objective function and constraint functions generated by this modified control parametrization method are derived. A numerical example is solved by using the time-delayed version of the problem that we formulate, as well as the nondelayed version of the problem in the literature. Numerical results clearly illustrate the efficiency of the modified control parameterization method for solving both versions of this optimal transmission problem. Comparison of results of the two versions concerning the optimal transmission rates at the origins, the optimal output flow rates at the destination, and the queue sizes at the buffers are obtained. These comparison results clearly reflect how the optimal transmission of messages in computer networks in real life can be affected by both the forward transmission delays of the buffers and the latency of the links.
The Community-Based Medication-First program for opioid use disorder: a hybrid implementation study protocol of a rapid access to buprenorphine program in Washington State
Authors: Banta-Green Caleb J. , Owens Mandy D. , Williams Jason R. , Sears Jeanne M. , Floyd Anthony S. , Williams-Gilbert Wendy , Kingston Susan
Published: July 2022

Background

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a serious health condition that is effectively treated with buprenorphine. However, only a minority of people with OUD are able to access buprenorphine. Many access points for buprenorphine have high barriers for initiation and retention. Health care and drug treatment systems have not been able to provide services to all—let alone the majority—who need it, and many with OUD report extreme challenges starting and staying on buprenorphine in those care settings. We describe the design and protocol for a study of a rapid access buprenorphine program model in six Washington State communities at existing sites serving people who are unhoused and/or using syringe services programs. This study aimed to test the effectiveness of a Community-Based Medication-First Program model.

Methods

We are conducting a hybrid effectiveness-implementation study of a rapid access buprenorphine model of care staffed by prescribers, nurse care managers, and care navigators. The Community-Based Medication-First model of care was designed as a 6-month, induction-stabilization-transition model to be delivered between 2019 and 2022. Effectiveness outcomes will be tested by comparing the intervention group with a comparison group derived from state records of people who had OUD. Construction of the comparison group will align characteristics such as geography, demographics, historical rates of arrests, OUD medication, and health care utilization, using restriction and propensity score techniques. Outcomes will include arrests, emergency and inpatient health care utilization, and mortality rates. Descriptive statistics for buprenorphine utilization patterns during the intervention period will be documented with the prescription drug monitoring program.

Discussion

Results of this study will help determine the effectiveness of the intervention. Given the serious population-level and individual-level impacts of OUD, it is essential that services be readily available to all people with OUD, including those who cannot readily access care due to their circumstances, capacity, preferences, and related systems barriers.
Partial identification of nonlinear peer effects models with missing data
Authors: Madeira Carlos
Published: July 2022

This paper examines inference on social interactions models in the presence of missing data on outcomes. In these models, missing data on outcomes imply an incomplete data problem on both the endogenous variable and the regressors. However, getting a sharp estimate of the partially identified coefficients is computationally difficult. Using a monotonicity property of the peer effects and a mean independence condition of individual decisions on the missing data, I show partial identification results for the binary choice peer effect model. A Monte Carlo exercise then summarizes the computational time and the accuracy performance of the interval estimators under some calibrations.
Association of alcohol use and dietary lifestyle of commercial drivers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria
Authors: Edo Great Iruoghene , Nwosu Laurine Chikodiri
Published: July 2022

Background

Alcohol intake, particularly to cope up with stress and depression experienced by commercial drivers during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, is alarming as a rise in sales has been reported in certain countries during the quarantine. Alcoholism leads to malnutrition, either because those involved consume an insufficient amount of essential nutrients or because alcohol and its metabolism prevent the body from properly absorbing, digesting, and using those nutrients. This study was carried out to assess the association of alcohol use and dietary lifestyle of commercial motor drivers during the pandemic.

Results

The anthropometric studies revealed that 69.5% of the respondents fall within the range of 18.5–24.49 indicating that they have normal weights. 63.5% reported daily consumption of alcohol, and 51% claimed that it does not affect their appetite, while 64.5% of the respondent stated that alcohol does not present them with any health problems. There was no significant association between the consumption of alcohol and nutritional status (p > 0.05), but a significant association between dietary lifestyle patterns and the nutritional status of participants was recorded (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

It is, therefore, essential that commercial drivers are given adequate information and guidance on improving their dietary lifestyle.
Giant right coronary artery aneurysm with vena cava superior fistula: a case report and radiological findings
Authors: van Grinsven Vincent , Binst Arizona , Rombouts Hans , Symons Rolf , De Praetere Herbert
Published: July 2022

Background

Giant coronary artery aneurysms (GCAA) are a rare disease entity with an estimated incidence of 0.02%. Atherosclerosis is the most common underlying factor in adulthood. Management guidelines lack the support of large-scale studies.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 58-year-old Caucasian male with complaints of stable dyspnea who was found to have a GCAA of the right coronary artery (RCA). Further evaluation revealed an aneurysm of 5.0 cm in diameter with a tortuous course, fistulation to the distal vena cava superior, and mass effect on the left atrium. Surgical deroofing and ligation of the aneurysm with venous bypassing of the right coronary artery were performed. There were no postoperative complications. Cardiac function had improved at 1-month follow-up and remained improved at 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Diagnosis and treatment strategy concerning GCAA remain challenging. Surgical treatment is advised in cases of giant aneurysms, multivessel disease, left main coronary artery (LMCA) involvement, mechanical complications (fistula, compression, or rupture), and concomitant valve surgery. Coronary angiography remains the gold standard for evaluation. However, coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) can add an important value for the clinician to assess myocardial viability and planning of surgical intervention.