bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The characteristics of the intestinal bacterial community from Oreochromis mossambicus and its interaction with microbiota from artificial fishery habitats
Authors: Bi Sheng , Lai Han , Guo Dingli , Yi Huadong , Li Haiyang , Liu Xuange , Chen Qiuxian , Chen Jiahui , Zhang Zhilun , Wei Xuchong , Li Guifeng , Xin Guorong
Published: May 2023

Background

Artificial habitats can allow many fish to flock together and interact and have been widely used to restore and protect fishery resources. The piece of research intends to elucidate the relationship of microbial communities between tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) intestines and artificial fishery habitats (water and sediments). Hence, 16 S rDNA sequencing technology was used to study the bacterial communities from intestines, water, and sediments.

Results

The results showed that the tilapia intestines had the lowest richness of Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) and the lowest diversity of the bacterial community compared to water and sediments. The intestine, water, and sediment microbial communities shared many OTUs. Overall, 663 shared OTUs were identified from the tilapia intestines (76.20%), the surrounding water (71.14%), and sediment (56.86%) in artificial habitats. However, there were unique OTUs that were detected in different sample types. There were 81, 77 and 112 unique OTUs observed in tilapia intestines, the surrounding water and sediment, respectively. Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were the most common and dominant bacterial phyla between the tilapia intestines and habitats. In the two groups, the microbial communities were similar in the taxonomic composition but different in the abundance of bacterial phyla. Interestingly, Firmicutes increased, while Fusobacteria decreased in artificial habitats. These findings indicated that the artificial habitats had fewer effects on the water environment and indicated that the mode of artificial habitats could have an effect on the enriched bacteria in the tilapia intestines.

Conclusions

This study analysed the bacterial communities of artificial habitats from the intestines, water, and sediments, which can explain the relationship between the tilapia intestines and habitats and strengthen the value of ecological services provided by artificial habitats.
The impact of self-employment on mental health of the younger elderly in China
Authors: Zhou Deshui , Zhan Qianqian , Li Lele
Published: May 2023

Background

With the prolongation of the life expectancy of the Chinese population and the intensification of the aging process of the population, the mental health problems of the elderly have become increasingly prominent. This study aims to explore whether self-employment can promote and how to promote the mental health of the elderly.

Method

Based on the 2018 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS) data, this paper uses OLS model and KHB method to verify the impact of self-employment on the mental health of the younger elderly and its mechanism.

Results

The results indicate that self-employment can significantly reduce the depression tendency of the younger elderly and promote their mental health. Heterogeneity analysis shows that self-employment has a more significant positive impact on the mental health of the younger elderly who are self-rated healthy, free of chronic diseases and low-level medical service utilization. The mechanism shows that self-employment can indirectly improve the mental health of the younger elderly through income growth effect and self-worth realization effect, in which the self-worth realization effect is greater than the economic effect. It illustrates that with the development of China’s economy, the elderly are pursuing more intrinsic values brought by self-employment than economic benefits.

Conclusion

In view of the above research results, it is suggested to encourage the elderly to actively participate in social activities, provide policy support for the younger elderly to engage in self-employment, increase government support as well as health guarantee level, and improve the subjective initiative of the elderly to participate in self-employment, so that the society can truly realize the healthy aging of “being useful and productive for the elderly”.
Comparing the performance of dengue virus IgG and IgG-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays in seroprevalence study
Authors: Tsai Jih-Jin , Tsai Ching-Yi , Lin Ping-Chang , Chen Chun-Hong , Tsai Wen-Yang , Dai Yu-Ching , Lin Yen-Chia , Pedroso Celia , Brites Carlos , Wang Wei-Kung
Published: May 2023

Background

Dengue virus (DENV) is the leading cause of arboviral diseases in humans worldwide. Currently Dengvaxia, the first dengue vaccine licensed in 20 countries, was recommended for DENV seropositive individuals aged 9–45 years. Studying dengue seroprevalence can improve our understanding of the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of DENV, and facilitate future intervention strategies and assessment of vaccine efficacy. Several DENV envelope protein-based serological tests including IgG and IgG-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) have been employed in seroprevalence studies. Previously DENV IgG-capture ELISA was reported to distinguish primary and secondary DENV infections during early convalescence, however, its performance over time and in seroprevalence study remains understudied.

Methods

In this study, we used well-documented neutralization test- or reverse-transcription-polymerase-chain reaction-confirmed serum/plasma samples including DENV-naïve, primary and secondary DENV, primary West Nile virus, primary Zika virus, and Zika with previous DENV infection panels to compare the performance of three ELISAs.

Results

The sensitivity of the InBios IgG ELISA was higher than that of InBios IgG-capture and SD IgG-capture ELISAs. The sensitivity of IgG-capture ELISAs was higher for secondary than primary DENV infection panel. Within the secondary DENV infection panel, the sensitivity of InBios IgG-capture ELISA decreased from 77.8% at < 6 months to 41.7% at 1–1.5 years, 28.6% at 2–15 years and 0% at > 20 years (p < 0.001, Cochran-Armitage test for trend), whereas that of IgG ELISA remains 100%. A similar trend was observed for SD IgG-capture ELISA.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate higher sensitivity of DENV IgG ELISA than IgG-capture ELISA in seroprevalence study and interpretation of DENV IgG-capture ELISA should take sampling time and primary or secondary DENV infection into consideration.
Expression of IL-13Rα2 and FUS in glioma: clinicopathological and prognostic correlation
Authors: Cheng Guang , Wang Meng , Zhang Xiyue , Zhang Yun
Published: May 2023

Background

IL-13Rα2 is one of the most widely studied tumor-associated antigens in glioma research. Fused in sarcoma (FUS) is a DNA/RNA binding protein that is dysfunctional in various malignant tumors. However, the expression of IL-13Rα2 and FUS, their relationship with clinicopathological parameters and their prognostic value in glioma remain unclear.

Methods

In the present study, the expression of IL-13Rα2 and FUS was measured in a glioma tissue array by immunohistochemistry. Pearson’s X2 test was used to determine the correlation between immunohistochemical expressions and clinicopathological parameters. Pearson’s or Spearman's correlation test was used to determine the association between these two proteins expression. The Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to investigate the effect of these proteins on prognosis.

Results

The expressions of IL-13Rα2 were significantly higher in high-grade gliomas (HGG) than that in low-grade gliomas (LGG) and was associated with IDH mutation status, whereas FUS location demonstrated no significant correlation with clinicopathological parameters. Moreover, a positive relationship was found between nuclear and cytoplasmic co-localization FUS and IL-13Rα2 expression. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that patients with IDH wide type or IL-13Rα2 had worst overall survival (OS) compared to other biomarkers. In HGG, IL-13Rα2 combined with nuclear and cytoplasmic co-localization of FUS was associated with worse OS. Multivariate analysis showed that tumor grade, Ki-67, P53 and IL-13Rα2 could be the independent prognostic factors for OS.

Conclusion

IL-13Rα2 expression was significantly associated with cytoplasmic distribution of FUS in human glioma samples and could be the independent prognostic factors for OS, while the prognostic value of its co-expression with cytoplasmic FUS in glioma need to be addressed in the future studies.
Indigenous maternal health and health services within Canada: a scoping review
Authors: Bacciaglia Meagan , Neufeld Hannah Tait , Neiterman Elena , Krishnan Akanksha , Johnston Sophie , Wright Kyla
Published: May 2023

Background

Globally, there are disparities in access to maternal health care services and equity in maternal health outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations. While the literature is growing, it has not been systematically synthesized. This review addresses this gap by synthesizing the existing literature on the organizational structure of maternity care, accessibility and delivery of services, and clinical disparities impacting Indigenous maternal health within Canada. It also identifies current knowledge gaps in research on these topics.

Methods

A scoping review was completed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement guidelines and the extension for scoping reviews. The search for relevant papers was performed in PubMed, CINAHL, and SCOPUS electronic databases and included any empirical literature written in English and published during 2006 – 2021. The research team inductively coded 5 articles to develop a coding scheme, which was then applied to the remaining articles.

Results

A total of 89 articles were included in the review, of which 32 were qualitative papers, 40 quantitative, 8 were mixed-methods publications, and 9 were review papers. The analysis of the articles resulted in identifying a range of overarching themes pertaining to the maternal health of Indigenous women within Canada including provision of services, clinical issues, education, health disparities, organization, spatial context, and impact of informal support. The results suggest that physical, psychological, organizational, and systemic barriers inhibit the quality-of-care pregnant Indigenous women receive, and that maternal health services are not consistently provided in a culturally safe manner. Results also suggest that, compared to non-Indigenous pregnant women, Indigenous women are more likely to develop clinical complications during pregnancy, reflecting the structural impacts of colonization that continue to negatively influence Indigenous maternal health and well-being.

Conclusions

There are many complex barriers that prevent Indigenous women from receiving high quality and culturally appropriate maternal care. Possible areas that could address the service gaps illuminated through this review include the implementation of cultural considerations across health care jurisdictions within Canada.
Circulating microRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers for melanoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Nan , Sun Hongyan , Sun Qian , Zhang Fangqing , Ma Lingli , Hu Yue , Cong Xianling
Published: May 2023

Background

Recent studies have shown that circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) can be used as diagnostic biomarkers for melanoma. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of circulating miRNAs for melanoma.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted and the quality of the included literature was evaluated using QUADAS-2 (Quality Assessment for diagnostic accuracy studies), and the diagnostic accuracy was assessed by pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under the curve (AUC). We used Deeks’ funnel plot to evaluate publication bias.

Results

The meta-analysis included 10 articles covering 16 studies, and the results showed that circulating miRNAs provide high diagnostic accuracy for melanoma. The overall pooled sensitivity was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.82–0.91), specificity was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.77–0.85), PLR was 4.6 (95% CI: 3.7–5.8), NLR was 0.16 (95% CI: 0.11–0.23), DOR was 29 (95% CI: 18–49), and AUC was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.87–0.92), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed better diagnostic value in miRNA clusters, European population, plasma miRNAs, and upregulated miRNAs compared to other subgroups.

Conclusions

The results indicated that circulating microRNAs can be used as a non-invasive biomarker for the diagnosis of melanoma.
Unilateral pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy with acute angle-closure glaucoma: a case report
Authors: Lv Kun , Liang Zhiqiao , Yang Kangyi , Chen Xuanzhu , Ma Yao , Wu Huijuan
Published: May 2023

Background

Pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy (PPRCA) is an uncommon fundus disease characterized by perivenous aggregations of pigment clumps and retinochoroidal atrophy distributed along the retinal veins. We report a Chinese female case of unilateral PPRCA with acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG).

Case presentation

A 50-year-old Chinese female presented with vision loss and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in the right eye and then underwent trabeculectomy. She referred to our clinic for further evaluation and treatment. The funduscopic examination revealed grayish retinochoroidal atrophy and osteocyte-like pigment clumping lesions along the retinal veins and peripapillary preretinal hemorrhage in the right eye. The patient also presented with AACG in the same eye on the basis of past medical history of acute attack, shallow anterior chamber depth (ACD), narrow angle showed by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and glaucomatous neuropathy identified by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Other examinations like fluorescein fundus angiography (FFA), electroretinogram (ERG) and electrooculography (EOG) all confirmed the aforementioned diagnose.

Conclusion

PPRCA is a rare disease, uncommon in females and symmetrical in both eyes. We present a rare case of unilateral PPRCA accompanied with AACG.
Prevalence and distribution of acute gastrointestinal illness in the community of China: a population-based face-to-face survey, 2014–2015
Authors: Liu Jikai , Luo Baozhang , Zhou Yijing , Ma Xiaochen , Liang Junhua , Sang Xianglai , Lyu Le , Chen Wen , Fu Pengyu , Liu Hong , Zhen Shiqi , Wang Chao , Wu Yangbo , Huang Qiong , Liang Xiaocheng , Bai Guangda , Lan Zhen , Zhang Shufang , Wu Yongning , Li Ning , Guo Yunchang
Published: May 2023

Background

The true incidence of acute gastrointestinal illness in China is underrecognized by surveillance systems. The aims of this study were to estimate the incidence and prevalence of self-reported AGI in the community of China, and to investigate sociodemographic and epidemiological determinants of AGI.

Methods

We conducted a 12-months cross-sectional population-based survey in eight provinces of China during 2014–2015. The survey determined the prevalence and incidence of acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI) in the total permanent resident population in China according to the census of the population in 2010. The random multilevel population sample was stratified by geographic, population, and socioeconomic status. We used a recommended case definition of AGI, with diarrhea (three loose or watery stools) and/or any vomiting in a four-week recall. A face-to-face survey was conducted by selecting the member in the household with the most recent birthday.

Results

Among 56,704 sampled individuals, 948 (1,134 person-time) fulfilled the case definition; 98.5% reported diarrhea. This corresponds to 2.3% (95% CI:1.9%-2.8%) of an overall standardized four-week prevalence and 0.3 (95% CI: 0.23–0.34) episodes per person-year of annual adjusted incidence rate. There was no significant difference between males and females. The incidence rates were higher among urban residents, and in the spring and summer. In the whole study period, 50% of the cases sought medical care, of which 3.9% were hospitalized and 14.3% provided a biological sample for laboratory identification of the causative agent. Children aged 0–4 and young adults aged 15–24, people living in rural areas and people who traveled frequently had higher prevalence of AGI.

Conclusion

Results showed that AGI represents a substantial burden in China, and will contribute to the estimation of the global burden of AGI. Complemented with data on the etiologies of AGI, these estimates will form the basis to estimate the burden of foodborne diseases in China.
Randomized controlled trial of a theory-informed mHealth intervention to support ART adherence and viral suppression among women with HIV in Mombasa, Kenya: preliminary efficacy and participant-level feasibility and acceptability
Authors: Aunon Frances M. , Wanje George , Richardson Barbra A. , Masese Linnet , Odeny Thomas A. , Kinuthia John , Mandaliya Kishorchandra , Jaoko Walter , Simoni Jane M. , McClelland R. Scott
Published: May 2023

Background

Mobile Health (“mHealth”) interventions have shown promise in improving HIV treatment outcomes for stigmatized populations. This paper presents the findings from a randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy, participant-level feasibility and acceptability of a theory-informed mHealth intervention, Motivation Matters!, designed to improve viral suppression and ART adherence among HIV-seropositive women who engage in sex work in Mombasa, Kenya.

Methods

A total of 119 women were randomized between the intervention and standard of care control. The primary outcome examined viral suppression (≤ 30 copies/mL) six months following ART initiation. ART adherence was assessed monthly using a visual analogue scale. Participant-level feasibility was measured through response rates to study text messages. Acceptability was assessed through qualitative exit interviews.

Results

Six months following treatment initiation, 69% of intervention and 63% of control participants were virally suppressed (Risk Ratio [RR] = 1.09, 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI] (0.83, 1.44). Among women who were viremic at baseline and endorsed engagement in sex work, 74% of women in the intervention arm compared with 46% of women in the control arm achieved viral suppression at month six RR = 1.61, 95% CI (1.02, 2.55). Adherence was higher in intervention versus control participants every month. All participants responded to at least one message, and there was a 55% overall response rate to intervention text messages. Qualitative exit interviews suggested high acceptability and perceived impact of the intervention.

Conclusion

The improvements in ART adherence and viral suppression, combined with encouraging data on feasibility and acceptability, provides preliminary evidence that Motivation Matters! could support ART adherence and viral suppression in women who engage in sex work.

Trial registration

This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02627365, 10/12/2015; http://clinicaltrials.gov).
The outcomes of transcatheter adrenal ablation in patients with primary aldosteronism: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Shunfan , Wang Guoliang , Li Nanfang , Zhu Qing
Published: May 2023

Background

The use of transcatheter adrenal ablation as an alternative treatment for primary aldosteronism (PA) patients remains a subject of debate, with outcomes varying widely across existing studies. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the results of adrenal ablation and estimate the effectiveness and safety of this therapeutic approach.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for studies published up to October 2022. Outcomes analyzed included the combined clinical success rate, biochemical success rate, and complication rate, which were assessed using a random-effects model.

Results

Five studies, comprising 234 PA patients, were included in the analysis. The combined clinical success rate was 74% (95% CI: 69%-79%), and the biochemical success rate was 74% (95% CI: 53%-95%). Subgroup analysis revealed that the combined clinical success rate from Unilateral PA (72%, 95% CI: 46%-98%) was similar to the rate from Unilateral + Bilateral (73%, 95% CI: 52.0%-94.0%), while the clinical success rate of the PASO subgroup (78%, 95% CI: 66.0%-89.0%) was higher than the rate of other criteria (51%, 95% CI: 40.0%-63.0%). The combined complication rates were as follows: mild fever, 23% (95% CI: 12%-33%); back pain, 84% (95% CI: 77%-91%); and pleural effusion, 9% (95% CI: 0%-18%). All complications resolved within one week following the procedure. No late complications or ablation-related deaths were reported.

Conclusions

Transcatheter adrenal ablation for PA patients is safe and demonstrates a relatively high clinical success rate. Presently, this approach is suitable for PA patients who are unwilling to undergo surgery or receive long-term mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) treatment.

Systematic Review registration

INPLASY, identifier 2022110076
Interaction of reproductive tract infections with estrogen exposure on breast cancer risk and prognosis
Authors: Li YunQian , Gan XingLi , Liang ZhuoZhi , Ye HengMing , Lin Ying , Liu Qiang , Xie XiaoMing , Tang LuYing , Ren ZeFang
Published: May 2023

Background

Reproductive tract infections influenced a series of inflammatory processes which involved in the development of breast cancer, while the processes were largely affected by estrogen. The present study aimed to explore the associations of breast cancer risk and prognosis with reproductive tract infections and the modification effects of estrogen exposure.

Methods

We collected history of reproductive tract infections, menstruation and reproduction from 1003 cases and 1107 controls and a cohort of 4264 breast cancer patients during 2008–2018 in Guangzhou, China. We used logistic regression model to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk; Cox model was applied to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

It was found that previous reproductive tract infections were negatively associated with breast cancer risk (OR = 0.80, 95%CI, 0.65–0.98), particularly for patients with more menstrual cycles (OR = 0.74, 95%CI, 0.57–0.96). Patients with previous reproductive tract infections experienced better OS (HR = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.40–0.94) and PFS (HR = 0.84; 95% CI, 0.65–1.09). This protective effect on PFS was only found in patients with more menstrual cycles (HR = 0.52, 95% CI:0.34–0.79, Pinteraction = 0.015).

Conclusions

The findings suggested that reproductive tract infections may be protective for the initiation and development of breast cancer, particularly for women with a longer interval of lifetime estrogen exposure.
Paliurus spina-christi Mill fruit extracts improve glucose uptake and activate the insulin signaling pathways in HepG2 insulin-resistant cells
Authors: Esfahani Seyedeh Mona Mousavi , Tarighi Parastoo , Dianat Kosar , Ashour Tabarek Mahdi , Mottaghi-Dastjerdi Negar , Aghsami Mehdi , Sabernavaei Mahsa , Montazeri Hamed
Published: May 2023

Background

Paliurus spina-christi Mill. (PSC) fruit is frequently used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in Mediterranean regions. Here, we investigated the effects of various PSC fruit extracts (PSC-FEs) on glucose consumption and some key mediators of insulin signaling pathways in high glucose and high insulin-induced insulin-resistant HepG2 cells.

Methods

The effects of methanolic, chloroform and total extracts on cell proliferation were assessed by the MTT assay. The potential of non-toxic extracts on glucose utilization in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells was checked using a glucose oxidase assay. AKT and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway activation and mRNA expression levels of insulin receptor (INSR), glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), and glucose transporters 4 (GLUT4) were determined by western blotting and real-time PCR, respectively.

Results

We found that high concentrations of methanolic and both low and high concentrations of total extracts were able to enhance glucose uptake in an insulin-resistant cell line model. Moreover, AKT and AMPK phosphorylation were significantly increased by the high strength of methanolic extract, while total extract raised AMPK activation at low and high concentrations. Also, GLUT 1, GLUT 4, and INSR were elevated by both methanolic and total extracts.

Conclusions

Ultimately, our results shed new light on methanolic and total PSC-FEs as sources of potential anti-diabetic medications, restoring glucose consumption and uptake in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. These could be at least in part due to re-activating AKT and AMPK signaling pathways and also increased expression of INSR, GLUT1, and GLUT4. Overall, active constituents present in methanolic and total extracts of PCS are appropriate anti-diabetic agents and explain the use of these PSC fruits in traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes.
WeChat as a platform for blending problem/case-based learning and paper review methods in undergraduate paediatric orthopaedics internships: a feasibility and effectiveness study
Authors: Chen Junfei , Gao Bingjun , Wang Kunyao , Lei Yinghan , Zhang Shengling , Jin Shaobin , Yang Weiwei , Zhuang Yan
Published: May 2023

Background

Paediatric orthopaedics is a significant and difficult for undergraduate students to master. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we used the WeChat platform to combine the advantages offered by problem-based learning (PBL), case-based learning (CBL) and paper review teaching methods to establish a new blended online teaching model and demonstrated its feasibility and effectiveness.

Objective

This study aims to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of a new blended pedagogical method that uses the WeChat platform and combines PBL, CBL and paper review.

Methods

We enrolled 22 students participating in the Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics. They participated in the WeChat blended pedagogy mode. Their departmental rotation examination scores were compared with those of 23 students who participated in the traditional teaching method. Moreover, an anonymous questionnaire was used to evaluate students’ perceptions and experiences.

Results

The total average scores of students who participated in the WeChat blended pedagogy mode and the traditional teaching method were 47.27 and 44.52, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences between the online teaching mode and the traditional teaching method in terms of possessing professional accomplishment, gaining knowledge and promoting interpersonal skills (P = 0.07, P = 0.12 and P = 0.65, respectively). In terms of independent clinical thinking, self-improving capability and improving clinical skills, the scores associated with the WeChat blended pedagogy mode were 8.00, 8.00 and 6.00, whereas those associated with the traditional teaching method were 6.70, 6.87 and 7.48. The overall satisfaction with the WeChat blended pedagogy mode reached 100%. A total of 64%, 86%, 68%, 64% and 59% of students chose very large or large in response to the items concerning professional accomplishment, knowledge absorption, independent clinical thinking skills, English reading and literature exploring capacity, as well as interpersonal skills, respectively. Fifteen participants claimed that the WeChat blended pedagogy mode was less helpful to them with regard to promoting the improvement of their clinical skills. Nine students claimed that the WeChat blended pedagogy mode was time-consuming.

Conclusions

Our study verified the feasibility and effectiveness of the WeChat blended pedagogy mode for undergraduate paediatric orthopaedics internships.

Trial Registration

Retrospectively registered.
Perceived barriers to effective use of telehealth in managing the care of patients with cardiovascular diseases: a qualitative study exploring healthcare professionals’ views in Jordan
Authors: Alarabyat Ibtisam A. , Al-Nsair Nezam , Alrimawi Intima , Al-Yateem Nabeel , Shudifat Raed Mohammad , Saifan Ahmad Rajeh
Published: May 2023

Background

The use of telehealth in the management of care and care delivery has been increasing significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth is an emerging technology used to manage care for patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in Jordan. However, implementing this approach in Jordan faces many challenges that need to be explored to identify practical solutions.

Purpose

To explore the perceived challenges and barriers to using telehealth in managing acute and chronic CVDs among healthcare professionals.

Methods

A qualitative, exploratory study was conducted by interviewing 24 health professionals at two hospitals in different clinical areas in Jordan.

Results

Several barriers were reported by participants that affected the utilization of telehealth services. The barriers were categorized into the following four themes: Drawbacks related to patients, Health providers’ concerns, Procedural faults, and telehealth To complement the service only.

Conclusions

The study suggests that telehealth can be instrumental in supporting care management for patients with CVD. It means that understanding the advantages and barriers to implementing telehealth by the healthcare providers in Jordan can improve many aspects of the healthcare services for patients with CVD within the healthcare settings in Jordan.
An innovative model based on N7-methylguanosine-related lncRNAs for forecasting prognosis and tumor immune landscape in bladder cancer
Authors: Ren Lei , Yang Xu , Liu Jinwen , Wang Weifeng , Liu Zixiong , Lin Qingyuan , Huang Bin , Pan Jincheng , Mao Xiaopeng
Published: May 2023

Background

As a novel type of the prevalent post-transcriptional modifications, N7-methylguanosine (m7G) modification is essential in the tumorigenesis, progression, and invasion of many cancers, including bladder cancer (BCa). However, the integrated roles of m7G-related lncRNAs in BCa remain undiscovered. This study aims to develop a prognostic model based on the m7G-related lncRNAs and explore its predictive value of the prognosis and anti-cancer treatment sensitivity.

Methods

We obtained RNA-seq data and corresponding clinicopathological information from the TCGA database and collected m7G-related genes from previous studies and GSEA. Based on LASSO and Cox regression analysis, we developed a m7G prognostic model. The Kaplan–Meier (K-M) survival analysis and ROC curves were performed to evaluate the predictive power of the model. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was conducted to explore the molecular mechanisms behind apparent discrepancies between the low- and high-risk groups. We also investigated immune cell infiltration, TIDE score, TMB, the sensitivity of common chemotherapy drugs, and the response to immunotherapy between the two risk groups. Finally, we validated the expression levels of these ten m7G-related lncRNAs in BCa cell lines by qRT-PCR.

Results

We developed a m7G prognostic model (risk score) composed of 10 m7G-related lncRNAs that are significantly associated with the OS of BCa patients. The K-M survival curves revealed that the high-risk group patients had significantly worse OS than those in the low-risk group. The Cox regression analysis confirmed that the risk score was a significant independent prognostic factor for BCa patients. We found that the high-risk group had higher the immune scores and immune cell infiltration. Furthermore, the results of the sensitivity of common anti-BCa drugs showed that the high-risk group was more sensitive to neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy and anti-PD1 immunotherapy. Finally, qRT-PCR revealed that AC006058.1, AC073133.2, LINC00677, and LINC01338 were significantly downregulated in BCa cell lines, while the expression levels of AC124312.2 and AL158209.1 were significantly upregulated in BCa cell lines compared with normal cell lines.

Conclusion

The m7G prognostic model can be applied to accurately predict the prognosis and provide robust directions for clinicians to develop better individual-based and precise treatment strategies for BCa patients.
What can be learned from the residual efficacy of three formulations of insecticides (pirimiphos-methyl, clothianidin and deltamethrin mixture, and clothianidin alone) in large-scale in community trial in North Benin, West Africa?
Authors: Odjo Esdras Mahoutin , Salako Albert Sourou , Padonou Germain Gil , Yovogan Boulais , Adoha Constantin Jésukèdè , Adjottin Bruno , Sominahouin André Aimé , Sovi Arthur , Osse Razaki , Kpanou Casimir D. , Sagbohan Hermann W. , Djenontin Armel , Agbangla Clement , Akogbeto Martin C.
Published: May 2023

Background

In Alibori and Donga, two departments of high malaria incidence of Northern Benin, pirimiphos-methyl, mixture deltamethrin + clothianidin, as well as clothianidin were used at large scale for IRS. The present study aimed to assess the residual efficacy of these products.

Methods

Immatures of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) collected in the communes of Kandi and Gogounou (Department of Alibori), Djougou and Copargo (Department of Donga) were reared until adulthood. Females aged 2–5 days were used for susceptibility tube tests following the WHO protocol. The tests were conducted with deltamethrin (0.05%), bendiocarb (0.1%), pirimiphos-methyl (0.25%) and clothianidin (2% weight per volume). For cone tests performed on cement and mud walls, the An. gambiae Kisumu susceptible strain was used. After the quality control of the IRS performed 1-week post-campaign, the evaluation of the residual activity of the different tested insecticides/mixture of insecticides was conducted on a monthly basis.

Results

Over the three study years, deltamethrin resistance was observed in all the communes. With bendiocarb, resistance or possible resistance was observed. In 2019 and 2020, full susceptibility to pirimiphos-methyl was observed, while possible resistance to the same product was detected in 2021 in Djougou, Gogounou and Kandi. With clothianidin, full susceptibility was observed 4–6 days post-exposure. The residual activity lasted 4–5 months for pirimiphos-methyl, and 8–10 months for clothianidin and the mixture deltamethrin + clothianidin. A slightly better efficacy of the different tested products was observed on cement walls compared to the mud walls.

Conclusion

Overall, An. gambiae s.l. was fully susceptible to clothianidin, while resistance/possible resistance was observed the other tested insecticides. In addition, clothianidin-based insecticides showed a better residual activity compared to pirimiphos-methyl, showing thus their ability to provide an improved and prolonged control of pyrethroid resistant vectors.
An analysis of migration and implications for health in government policy of South Africa
Authors: Manji Karima , Perera Shehani , Hanefeld Johanna , Vearey Jo , Olivier Jill , Gilson Lucy , Walls Helen
Published: May 2023

For over a decade, the global health community has advanced policy engagement with migration and health, as reflected in multiple global-led initiatives. These initiatives have called on governments to provide universal health coverage to all people, regardless of their migratory and/or legal status. South Africa is a middle-income country that experiences high levels of cross-border and internal migration, with the right to health enshrined in its Constitution. A National Health Insurance Bill also commits the South African public health system to universal health coverage, including for migrant and mobile groups. We conducted a study of government policy documents (from the health sector and other sectors) that in our view should be relevant to issues of migration and health, at national and subnational levels in South Africa. We did so to explore how migration is framed by key government decision makers, and to understand whether positions present in the documents support a migrant-aware and migrant-inclusive approach, in line with South Africa’s policy commitments. This study was conducted between 2019 and 2021, and included analysis of 227 documents, from 2002–2019. Fewer than half the documents identified (101) engaged directly with migration as an issue, indicating a lack of prioritisation in the policy discourse. Across these documents, we found that the language or discourse across government levels and sectors focused mainly on the potential negative aspects of migration, including in policies that explicitly refer to health. The discourse often emphasised the prevalence of cross-border migration and diseases, the relationship between immigration and security risks, and the burden of migration on health systems and other government resources. These positions attribute blame to migrant groups, potentially fuelling nationalist and anti-migrant sentiment and largely obscuring the issue of internal mobility, all of which could also undermine the constructive engagement necessary to support effective responses to migration and health. We provide suggestions on how to advance engagement with issues of migration and health in order for South Africa and countries of a similar context in regard to migration to meet the goal of inclusion and equity for migrant and mobile groups.
HDL-cholesterol concentration and its association with coronary artery calcification: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Abedi Farshad , Sadeghi Masoumeh , Omidkhoda Navid , Kelesidis Theodoros , Ramezani Javad , Samadi Sara , Mohammadpour Amir Hooshang
Published: May 2023

Background

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is a potential risk marker of coronary atherosclerosis that has high specificity and sensitivity. However, the association between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentration and CAC incidence and progression is controversial.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus were systematically searched to identify relevant observational studies up to March 2023 and assessed the methodological quality using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) scale. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval considering heterogeneity across studies.

Results

Of the 2,411 records, 25 cross-sectional (n = 71,190) and 13 cohort (n = 25,442) studies were included in the systematic review. Ten cross-sectional and eight cohort studies were not eligible and were omitted from the meta-analysis. A total of 15 eligible cross-sectional studies (n = 33,913) were included in the meta-analysis and pooled results revealed no significant association between HDL-C and CAC > 0, CAC > 10, or CAC > 100 [pooled OR: 0.99 (0.97, 1.01)]. Meta-analysis of the 5 eligible prospective cohort studies (n = 10,721) revealed no significant protective effect of high HDL-C against CAC > 0 [pooled OR: 1.02 (0.93, 1.13)].

Conclusions

According to this analysis of observational studies, high HDL-C levels were not found to predict protection against CAC. These results suggest HDL quality rather than HDL quantity is important for certain aspects of atherogenesis and CAC.

Registration number

CRD42021292077.
Purification and proteomic analysis of potent fibrinolytic enzymes extracted from Lumbricus rubellus
Authors: Stephani Laurentia , Rahayu Puji , Retnoningrum Debbie , Suhartono Maggy Thenawidjaja , Rachmawati Heni , Tjandrawinata Raymond R.
Published: May 2023

Background

Lumbrokinase derived from earthworms, Lumbricus rubellus is known to have fibrinolytic enzymes that have potential as therapeutic drugs due to its ability to dissolve fibrin. The current study is aimed to purify the Lumbrokinase from L. rubellus and identify its protein component.

Methods

Water extract of local earthworm Lumbricus rubellus revealed several proteins. Therefore, to identify its protein component, purification through HiPrep DEAE fast flow and proteomic analysis were conducted prior to identifications. A combination of two-dimension gel electrophoresis (2DE) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry analysis was used to identify the purified fractions.

Results

The purified fractions contain five protein bands, namely F25-1, F25-2, F85-1, F85-2, and F85-3, which displayed strong fibrinogenolytic activity. F25 fractions showed fibrinogenolytic activity of 974.85 U/mg, while F85 fractions showed higher activity of 1,484.11 U/mg. Fractions F85-1, F85-2, and F85-3 showed molecular weights of 42.6 kDa, 27.03 kDa, and 14 kDa, respectively and were identified as Lumbrokinase iso-enzymes.

Conclusion

This preliminary study indicates that the F25 and F85 fractions are similar to published fibrinolytic protease-1 and lumbrokinase, respectively, in terms of their amino acid sequence.
Feasibility and acceptability of inserts promoting virtual overdose monitoring services (VOMS) in naloxone kits: a qualitative study
Authors: Safi Fahad , Rioux William , Rider Nathan , Fornssler Barbara , Jones Stephanie , Ghosh S. Monty
Published: May 2023

Background

In response to the ongoing opioid epidemic, there have been efforts to develop novel harm reduction strategies alongside scaling of currently implemented programs. Virtual overdose monitoring services (VOMS) are a novel intervention which aims to reduce substance-related mortality through technology for those who are out of reach of current supervised consumption sites. Scaling of naloxone programs presents a unique opportunity to promote VOMS to people at risk of substance-related mortality. This study aims to explore the feasibility and acceptability of naloxone kit inserts in promoting awareness of VOMS.

Method

We used purposive and snowball sampling to recruit 52 key informants, including people who use drugs (PWUD) with experience using VOMS (n = 16), PWUD with no prior experience using VOMS (n = 9), family members of PWUD (n = 5), healthcare and emergency services professionals (n = 10), community-based harm reduction organizations (n = 6), and VOMS administrators/peer support workers (n = 6). Two evaluators completed semi-structured interviews. Interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis informed to identify key themes.

Results

Four key interrelated themes emerged, including the acceptability of naloxone kit inserts to promote VOMS, best practices for implementation, key messaging to include within promotional materials and facilitators to dissemination of harm reduction material. Participants highlighted that messaging should be promoted both inside and outside the kits, should be concise, provide basic information about VOMS and can be facilitated through current distribution streams. Messaging could further be used to draw attention to local harm reduction services and could be promoted on other supplies, including lighters and safer consumption supplies.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrate that it is acceptable to promote VOMS within naloxone kits and highlight interviewees preferred ways to do so. Key themes that emerged from interviewees can be used to inform the dissemination of harm reduction information, including VOMS and bolster current strategies for reducing illicit drug overdose.
Targeting ER stress/PKA/GSK-3β/β-catenin pathway as a potential novel strategy for hepatitis C virus-infected patients
Authors: Lin Dong , Chen Yijia , Koksal Ali Riza , Dash Srikanta , Aydin Yucel
Published: May 2023

Background

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection causes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The HCC risk, while decreased compared with active HCV infection, persists in HCV-cured patients by direct-acting antiviral agents (DAA). We previously demonstrated that Wnt/β-catenin signaling remained activated after DAA-mediated HCV eradication. Developing therapeutic strategies to both eradicate HCV and reverse Wnt/β-catenin signaling is needed.

Methods

Cell-based HCV long term infection was established. Chronically HCV infected cells were treated with DAA, protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor H89 and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress inhibitor tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA). Western blotting analysis and fluorescence microscopy were performed to determine HCV levels and component levels involved in ER stress/PKA/glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β)/β-catenin pathway. Meanwhile, the effects of H89 and TUDCA were determined on HCV infection.

Results

Both chronic HCV infection and replicon-induced Wnt/β-catenin signaling remained activated after HCV and replicon eradication by DAA. HCV infection activated PKA activity and PKA/GSK-3β-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Inhibition of PKA with H89 both repressed HCV and replicon replication and reversed PKA/GSK-3β-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling in both chronic HCV infection and replicon. Both chronic HCV infection and replicon induced ER stress. Inhibition of ER stress with TUDCA both repressed HCV and replicon replication and reversed ER stress/PKA/GSK-3β-dependent Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Inhibition of either PKA or ER stress both inhibited extracellular HCV infection.

Conclusion

Targeting ER stress/PKA/GSK-3β-dependent Wnt/β-catenin signaling with PKA inhibitor could be a novel therapeutic strategy for HCV-infected patients to overcomes the issue of remaining activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling by DAA treatment.
Inflammatory panel cytokines are elevated in the neocortex of late-stage Alzheimer’s disease but not Lewy body dementias
Authors: Chai Yuek Ling , Lee Jasinda H. , Chong Joyce R. , Ballard Clive , Francis Paul T. , Kennedy Brian K. , Arumugam Thiruma V. , Chen Christopher P. , Aarsland Dag , Lai Mitchell K. P.
Published: May 2023

Background

Chronically dysregulated neuroinflammation has been implicated in neurodegenerative dementias, with separate studies reporting increased brain levels of inflammatory mediators and gliosis in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as well as in Lewy body dementias (LBD). However, it is unclear whether the nature and extent of neuroinflammatory responses in LBD are comparable to those in AD. In this study, we performed head-to-head measurements of a panel of cytokines in the post-mortem neocortex of AD versus the two major clinical subtypes of LBD, namely, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD).

Methods

Post-mortem tissues from the mid-temporal cortex (Brodmann area 21) of a cohort of neuropathologically well-defined AD, PDD and DLB patients were processed and measured for a comprehensive range of cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1Ra, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13, IFN-γ, GM-CSF and FGF-2) using a multiplex immunoassay platform. Associations between inflammation markers and neuropathological measures of neuritic plaques, neurofibrillary tangles as well as Lewy bodies were also performed.

Results

We found IL-1α, IFN-γ, GM-CSF and IL-13 to be elevated in the mid-temporal cortex of AD patients. In contrast, none of the measured cytokines were significantly altered in either DLB or PDD. Similar cytokine changes were observed in two other neocortical areas of AD patients. Furthermore, increases of IL-1α, IFN-γ, GM-CSF, IL-10 and IL-13 associated with moderate-to-severe neurofibrillary tangle burden, but not with neuritic plaques or Lewy bodies. Our findings of elevated neocortical pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in AD, but not in DLB or PDD, suggest that neuroinflammatory responses are strongly linked to neurofibrillary tangle burden, which is higher in AD compared to LBD. In conclusion, neuroinflammation may not play a prominent role in the pathophysiology of late-stage LBD.