bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time to death from cervical cancer and its predictors in hospitalized patients: a survival approach study in Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: Xavier Sancho Pedro , da Silva Kátia Moreira , Galvão Noemi Dreyer , das Neves Marco Aurélio Bertúlio , de Queiroz Neves Almeida Adila , Mario Cândido da Silva Ageo
Published: October 2024

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is a serious public health concern, being the fourth most common cancer among women and a leading cause of cancer mortality. In Brazil, many women are diagnosed late, and in Mato Grosso, with its geographical diversity, there are specific challenges. This study analyzed hospital survival and its predictors using data from the Hospital Information System (SIH) of the Unified Health System (SUS) in Mato Grosso from 2011 to 2023.

Methods

Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier models were applied to determine survival time and identify mortality predictors. The adjusted Hazard Ratio (AHR) with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was used to measure the association between the factors analyzed.

Results

The hospital mortality rate was 9.88%. The median duration of hospitalization was 33 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 12–36), with a median survival of 43.7%. Patients were followed up for up to 70 days. In the multivariable Cox model, after adjusting for potential confounders, the risk of death during hospitalization was higher in patients aged 40–59 years (AHR = 1.39, p = 0.027) and 60–74 years (AHR = 1.54, p = 0.007), in the absence of surgical procedures (AHR = 4.48, p < 0.001), in patients with medium service complexity (AHR = 2.40, p = 0.037), and in the use of ICU (AHR = 4.97, p < 0.001). On the other hand, patients with hospital expenses above the median (152.971 USD) showed a reduced risk of death (AHR = 0.21, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study highlights that hospitalized CC patients have reduced survival, underscoring the need for interventions to improve care, including strategies for early diagnosis and expanded access to adequately resourced health services.
Clinical and genetic spectrum of factor XII deficiency in the Han population of East China
Authors: Xu Fei , Qin Langyi , Zou Anqing , Hou Lingling , Wang Mingshan , Chen Bile
Published: October 2024

Background

Factor XII (FXII or F12) deficiency is a rare inherited disorder, typically lacking haemorrhagic symptoms. There is limited literature exists on FXII deficiency and mutations within the Chinese population. This study aimed to characterize the spectrum of F12 gene mutations in a Chinese cohort and to investigate the relationship between FXII mutations and clinical phenotypes.

Methods

Genetic and clinical data from 51 unrelated probands with FXII deficiency, along with their families, were meticulously collected and analysed.

Results

Genetic analysis revealed that 94.1% of probands carried genetic defects, with 29 mutations pinpointed in the F12 gene. Of these, 18 mutations were previously reported for the first time by our research group, including c.303_304delCA, c.1078G > A, c.1285 C > T, among others. Of the mutations, 17 are missense, constituting 58.6% of the total. Additionally, 11 are deletions or insertions, of which 8 result in frameshifts, while the remaining one is a nonsense mutation. These mutations were predominantly concentrated in two crucial regions: the catalytic domain and the kringle domain. The most frequently observed mutations were c.1681G > A, closely followed by c.1561G > A and c.1078G > A, indicating a dominance among these mutations. Additionally, a prevalent polymorphism at position 46 was observed in the majority of probands, with 47.1% having the 46T/T genotype and 13.7% having the 46 C/T genotype, which may potentially impact FXII activity. The broad spectrum of asymptomatic FXII deficiency observed within the Han population of East China.

Conclusions

We speculate on the potential impact of recurrent mutations on the efficacy of new drugs being developed to target FXII for thrombosis prevention and treatment. Furthermore, it is important to explore their influence on FXII-related pathways beyond the activation of the contact pathway in the coagulation cascade.
Exosomal miR-106a-5p from highly metastatic colorectal cancer cells drives liver metastasis by inducing macrophage M2 polarization in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Liang Yahang , Li Junyu , Yuan Yuli , Ju Houqiong , Liao Hualin , Li Mingming , Liu Yang , Yao Yao , Yang Lingling , Li Taiyuan , Lei Xiong
Published: October 2024

Background

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a dynamic system orchestrated by intricate cell-to-cell crosstalk. Specifically, macrophages within the TME play a crucial role in driving tumor progression. Exosomes are key mediators of communication between tumor cells and the TME. However, the mechanisms underlying exosome-driven crosstalk between tumor cells and macrophages during colorectal cancer (CRC) progression remain incompletely elucidated.

Methods

Single-cell RNA sequencing were analyzed using the Seurat package. Exosomes were isolated using ultracentrifugation and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and western blot. miRNAs differentially expressed in exosomes were analyzed using the limma package. CD206 expression in CRC tissues, exosomes tracing, and exosomal miR-106a-5p transport were observed through immunofluorescence. Macrophage polarization was assessed via qRT-PCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry. The interactions between miR-106a-5p, hnRNPA1, and SOCS6 were evaluated using miRNA pull-down, RIP, and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Transwell assays and liver metastasis model explored the role of exosomal miR-106a-5p-induced M2 macrophages in promoting CRC liver metastasis.

Result

The proportion of M2 macrophages is increased in CRC with liver metastasis compared to those without. Highly metastatic CRC cells release exosomes enriched with miR-106a-5p, which promote macrophages M2 polarization by suppressing SOCS6 and activating JAK2/STAT3 pathway. These M2 macrophages reciprocally enhance CRC liver metastasis. hnRNPA1 regulate the transport of miR-106a-5p into exosomes. Clinically, elevated miR-106a-5p in plasma exosomes correlated with liver metastasis and poor prognosis.

Conclusion

CRC-derived exosomal miR-106a-5p plays a critical role in promoting liver metastasis and is a potential biomarker for the prevention and treatment of CRC liver metastasis.
Risk factor analysis and prediction model construction for severe adenovirus pneumonia in children
Authors: Liang Yaowen , Wu Jinhuan , Chen Gang , Du Yuchen , Yan Yi , Xie Shuqin , Qian Wenxian , Chen Apeng , Yi Changhua , Tian Man
Published: October 2024

Background

Severe adenovirus pneumonia in children has a high mortality rate, but research on risk prediction models is lacking. Such models are essential as they allow individualized predictions and assess whether children will likely progress to severe disease.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on children with adenovirus pneumonia who were hospitalized at the Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2017 to March 2024. The patients were grouped according to clinical factors, and the groups were compared using Ridge regression and multiple logistic regression to identify risk factors associated with severe adenovirus pneumonia. A prediction model was constructed, and its value in clinical application was evaluated.

Results

699 patients were included in the study, with 284 in the severe group and 415 in the general group. Through the screening of 44 variables, the final risk factors for severe adenovirus pneumonia in children as the levels of neutrophils (OR = 1.086, 95% CI: 1.054‒1.119, P < 0.001), D-dimer (OR = 1.005, 95% CI: 1.003‒1.007, P < 0.001), fibrinogen degradation products (OR = 1.341, 95% CI: 1.034‒1.738, P = 0.027), B cells (OR = 1.076, 95%CI: 1.046‒1.107, P < 0.001), and lactate dehydrogenase (OR = 1.008, 95% CI: 1.005‒1.011, P < 0.001). The value of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.974, the 95% CI was 0.963–0.985, and the P-value of the Hosmer-Lemeshow test was 0.547 (P > 0.05), indicating that the model had strong predictive power.

Conclusion

In this study, the clinical variables of children with adenovirus pneumonia were retrospectively analyzed to identify risk factors for severe disease. A prediction model for severe disease was constructed and evaluated, showing good application value.
Triphallia: the first cadaveric description of internal penile triplication: a case report
Authors: Buchanan John , Gadd Madeleine , How Rose , Mathews Edward , Coetzee Andre , Katti Karuna
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Triphallia, a rare congenital anomaly describing the presence of three distinct penile shafts, has been reported only once in the literature. This case report, based on an extensive literature review, describes the serendipitous discovery during cadaveric dissection of the second reported human case of triphallia, distinctly morphologically different from the previous case.

Case presentation

Despite the normal appearance of external genitalia on examination, the dissection of a 78-year-old white male revealed a remarkable anatomical variation: two small supernumerary penises stacked in a sagittal orientation posteroinferiorly to the primary penis. Each penile shaft displayed its own corpora cavernosa and glans penis. The primary penis and largest and most superficial of the supernumerary penises shared a single urethra, which coursed through the secondary penis prior to its passage through the primary penis. A urethra-like structure was absent from the smallest supernumerary penis.

Conclusion

This case report provides a comprehensive description of the anatomical features of triphallia in a cadaver, shedding light on the morphology, embryology, and clinical implications of this anomaly. Without dissection, this anatomical variation would have remained undiscovered, suggesting the prevalence of polyphallia may be greater than expected. The single tortuous urethra present in this case, as well as the supernumerary and blind ending urethras present in many cases of penile duplication, may pose significant risk of infection, sexual dysfunction, subfertility, and traumatic catheterization.

Significance

These findings underscore the importance of meticulous anatomical dissections and may act as a resource for anatomists and those studying genitourinary anomalies. Although we can only speculate as to which functional implications this patient may have experienced, understanding such anatomical variations contributes to both knowledge of human anatomy and clinical management should the condition be encountered in living individuals.
CASTOR1 phosphorylation predicts poor survival in male patients with KRAS-mutated lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Loo Suet Kee , Sica Gabriel , Wang Xian , Li Tingting , Chen Luping , Gaither-Davis Autumn , Huang Yufei , Burns Timothy F. , Stabile Laura P. , Gao Shou-Jiang
Published: October 2024

Background

Lung cancer, a leading global cause of cancer-related mortality, necessitates enhanced prognostic markers for improved treatment outcomes. We have previously shown a tumor suppressive role of cytosolic arginine sensor for mTORC1 subunit 1 (CASTOR1), which is targeted for degradation upon phosphorylation at S14 (pCASTOR1) in multiple types of cancer. This study focuses on the predictive value of pCASTOR1 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients with KRAS mutations.

Results

Employing a newly developed pCASTOR1 specific antibody, we found that tumor cells exhibited significantly elevated pCASTOR1 scores compared to non-tumor cells (P < 0.05). Higher pCASTOR1 scores predicted poorer overall survival (OS) (HR = 3.3, P = 0.0008) and relapse-free survival (RFS) (HR = 3.0, P = 0.0035) in male patients with KRAS mutations. pCASTOR1 remained an independent predictor for OS (HR = 4.1, P = 0.0047) and RFS (HR = 3.5, P = 0.0342) after controlling for other factors. Notably, in early-stage LUAD, elevated pCASTOR1 scores were associated with significantly worse OS (HR = 3.3, P = 0.0176) and RFS (HR = 3.1, P = 0.0277) in male patients with KRAS mutations, akin to late-stage patients.

Conclusion

Elevated pCASTOR1 scores serve as biomarkers predicting poorer OS and RFS in male LUAD patients with KRAS mutations, offering potential clinical utility in optimizing treatment strategies for this subgroup.
A dendroarchaeological tree-ring dataset of Abies alba Mill. from historic buildings in the French Pyrenees
Authors: Labbas Vincent , Saulnier Mélanie , Burri Sylvain , Larrieu Laurent , Py-Saragaglia Vanessa
Published: October 2024

Key message

This article presents ring width chronologies derived from samples extracted from historical timber buildings in the French central Pyrenees. Two chronologies for fir (Abies alba Mill.) were dated for two periods: 1446–1655 and 1679–1952 AD. These chronologies are suitable for dendroarchaeological and paleoenvironmental studies, or for reconstructing past climates. Dataset access is at https://doi.org/10.48579/PRO/KH6HPC and associated metadata at https://metadata-afs.nancy.inra.fr/geonetwork/srv/fre/catalog.search#/metadata/edba546e-3769-4f06-959b-f0d8db7fbcdb.
Oral health experience of individuals with eating disorders
Authors: Gidlund Ulrica , Hasselblad Tove , Larsson-Gran Pernilla , von Hausswolff-Juhlin Yvonne , Dahllöf Göran
Published: October 2024

Background

Evidence on how persons with and in remission from an eating disorder experience their oral health is limited. Dental treatment in Sweden today is often postponed until medical rehabilitation has been completed, but this carries risks. For the patient, the risk is severely impaired oral health and additional suffering, and for both society and the patient, higher costs than might have been necessary.

Methods

Ten female informants aged 21–51 years (mean age = 36.7, standard deviation 12.7) in remission from an eating disorder with a median duration of 12.5 (range 4–25) years of illness, were questioned in semi-structured interviews about their perceptions of oral health. All participants had been referred to a specialist dental clinic and needed oral rehabilitation. 10% of the patients had been diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and 90% with bulimia nervosa. All had been in remission from the eating disorder for at least one year. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed with thematic analysis using an inductive approach.

Results

One overarching theme emerged from the analysis: dental damage persisted as a visible, lingering scar during remission of the eating disorder, reminiscent of the disease and its consequences. The three major themes identified were (1) Physical impact, (2) Psychological impact, and (3) Impact on daily living. The first major theme included erosive tooth wear and impaired oral function and aesthetics. Interviewees described the second as feelings of stigma, guilt, shame, anxiety, and worry, in particular concerning self-inflicted dental damage through self-induced vomiting. The last major theme covered avoidance strategies such as limiting smiling and laughing and minimizing social situations such as eating with others, pursuing a wanted career, and meeting a partner.

Conclusions

The participants in this study expressed a profound negative impact on daily life and a two-fold burden of stigma of having suffered from both an eating disorder and poor oral health.
Application of preoperative advanced diffusion magnetic resonance imaging in evaluating the postoperative recurrence of lower grade gliomas
Authors: Gao Luyue , Li Yuanhao , Zhu Hongquan , Liu Yufei , Li Shihui , Li Li , Zhang Jiaxuan , Shen Nanxi , Zhu Wenzhen
Published: October 2024

Background

Recurrence of lower grade glioma (LrGG) appeared to be unavoidable despite considerable research performed in last decades. Thus, we evaluated the postoperative recurrence within two years after the surgery in patients with LrGG by preoperative advanced diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI).

Materials and methods

48 patients with lower-grade gliomas (23 recurrence, 25 nonrecurrence) were recruited into this study. Different models of dMRI were reconstructed, including apparent fiber density (AFD), white matter tract integrity (WMTI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI), neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), Bingham NODDI and standard model imaging (SMI). Orthogonal Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA) was used to construct a multiparametric prediction model for the diagnosis of postoperative recurrence.

Results

The parameters derived from each dMRI model, including AFD, axon water fraction (AWF), mean diffusivity (MD), mean kurtosis (MK), fractional anisotropy (FA), intracellular volume fraction (ICVF), extra-axonal perpendicular diffusivity (De⊥), extra-axonal parallel diffusivity (De∥) and free water fraction (fw), showed significant differences between nonrecurrence group and recurrence group. The extra-axonal perpendicular diffusivity (De⊥) had the highest area under curve (AUC = 0.885), which was significantly higher than others. The variable importance for the projection (VIP) value of De⊥ was also the highest. The AUC value of the multiparametric prediction model merging AFD, WMTI, DTI, DKI, NODDI, Bingham NODDI and SMI was up to 0.96.

Conclusion

Preoperative advanced dMRI showed great efficacy in evaluating postoperative recurrence of LrGG and De⊥ of SMI might be a valuable marker.
Speech recognition technology for assessing team debriefing communication and interaction patterns: An algorithmic toolkit for healthcare simulation educators
Authors: Brutschi Robin , Wang Rui , Kolbe Michaela , Weiss Kerrin , Lohmeyer Quentin , Meboldt Mirko
Published: October 2024

Background

Debriefings are central to effective learning in simulation-based medical education. However, educators often face challenges when conducting debriefings, which are further compounded by the lack of empirically derived knowledge on optimal debriefing processes. The goal of this study was to explore the technical feasibility of audio-based speaker diarization for automatically, objectively, and reliably measuring debriefing interaction patterns among debriefers and participants. Additionally, it aimed to investigate the ability to automatically create statistical analyses and visualizations, such as sociograms, solely from the audio recordings of debriefings among debriefers and participants.

Methods

We used a microphone to record the audio of debriefings conducted during simulation-based team training with third-year medical students. The debriefings were led by two healthcare simulation instructors. We processed the recorded audio file using speaker diarization machine learning algorithms and validated the results manually to showcase its accuracy. We selected two debriefings to compare the speaker diarization results between different sessions, aiming to demonstrate similarities and differences in interaction patterns.

Results

Ten debriefings were analyzed, each lasting about 30 min. After data processing, the recorded data enabled speaker diarization, which in turn facilitated the automatic creation of visualized interaction patterns, such as sociograms. The findings and data visualizations demonstrated the technical feasibility of implementing audio-based visualizations of interaction patterns, with an average accuracy of 97.78%.We further analyzed two different debriefing cases to uncover similarities and differences between the sessions. By quantifying the response rate from participants, we were able to determine and quantify the level of interaction patterns triggered by instructors in each debriefing session. In one session, the debriefers triggered 28% of the feedback from students, while in the other session, this percentage increased to 36%.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that speaker diarization technology can be applied accurately and automatically to provide visualizations of debriefing interactions. This application can be beneficial for the development of simulation educator faculty. These visualizations can support instructors in facilitating and assessing debriefing sessions, ultimately enhancing learning outcomes in simulation-based healthcare education.
Deep learning-based defacing tool for CT angiography: CTA-DEFACE
Authors: Mahmutoglu Mustafa Ahmed , Rastogi Aditya , Schell Marianne , Foltyn-Dumitru Martha , Baumgartner Michael , Maier-Hein Klaus Hermann , Deike-Hofmann Katerina , Radbruch Alexander , Bendszus Martin , Brugnara Gianluca , Vollmuth Philipp
Published: October 2024

The growing use of artificial neural network (ANN) tools for computed tomography angiography (CTA) data analysis underscores the necessity for elevated data protection measures. We aimed to establish an automated defacing pipeline for CTA data. In this retrospective study, CTA data from multi-institutional cohorts were utilized to annotate facemasks (n = 100) and train an ANN model, subsequently tested on an external institution’s dataset (n = 50) and compared to a publicly available defacing algorithm. Face detection (MTCNN) and verification (FaceNet) networks were applied to measure the similarity between the original and defaced CTA images. Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), face detection probability, and face similarity measures were calculated to evaluate model performance. The CTA-DEFACE model effectively segmented soft face tissue in CTA data achieving a DSC of 0.94 ± 0.02 (mean ± standard deviation) on the test set. Our model was benchmarked against a publicly available defacing algorithm. After applying face detection and verification networks, our model showed substantially reduced face detection probability (p < 0.001) and similarity to the original CTA image (p < 0.001). The CTA-DEFACE model enabled robust and precise defacing of CTA data. The trained network is publicly accessible at www.github.com/neuroAI-HD/CTA-DEFACE.

Relevance statement

The ANN model CTA-DEFACE, developed for automatic defacing of CT angiography images, achieves significantly lower face detection probabilities and greater dissimilarity from the original images compared to a publicly available model. The algorithm has been externally validated and is publicly accessible.

Key Points

The developed ANN model (CTA-DEFACE) automatically generates facemasks for CT angiography images.

CTA-DEFACE offers superior deidentification capabilities compared to a publicly available model.

By means of graphics processing unit optimization, our model ensures rapid processing of medical images.

Our model underwent external validation, underscoring its reliability for real-world application.

Graphical Abstract
Association between cannabis use and physical activity in the United States based on legalization and health status
Authors: Merrill Ray M. , Ashton-Hwang Kendyll , Gallegos Liliana
Published: October 2024

Background

Studies investigating the association between cannabis use and physical activity have had mixed results. This study provided a population-based assessment while determining how the relationship is affected by variables such as cannabis legalization status and chronic medical conditions.

Methods

Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data were used to evaluate the association between cannabis use and physical activity among adults ages 18 years and older in several states and territories of the U.S. during 2016–2022. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) measuring the relationship between physical activity in the past 30 days (yes vs. no) and cannabis use in the past 30 days (yes vs. no) based on legalization and health status were estimated using logistic regression.

Results

Physical activity increased from 73.16% in 2016 to 75.72% in 2022 (3.5% increase) and current cannabis use increased from 7.48% in 2016 to 14.71% in 2022 (96.7% increase). Current cannabis use was 6.5% higher in areas of legalized recreational cannabis (vs. not legal) and 0.7% higher in areas of legalized medical cannabis (vs. not legal). For the combined years, the OR measuring the association between cannabis use and physical activity was 1.24 (95% CI 1.10–1.41), after adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, marital status, employment status, education, smoking status, weight classification, legal status, and chronic medical condition. The adjusted OR was 1.47 (95% CI 1.34–1.62) in areas with legalized recreational and medical cannabis (vs. illegal) and 1.05 (95% CI 0.98–1.12) in areas with legalized medical cannabis only (vs. illegal). Having a medical condition was significantly associated with lower prevalence of physical activity in the adjusted models (overall adjusted OR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.73–0.85). However, this significantly lower odds ratio was insignificant for current cannabis users.

Conclusions

Public policy and personal health behaviors may improve with the findings that legal medical cannabis promotes greater physical activity in those experiencing chronic medical conditions and legal recreational cannabis promotes (even more so) greater physical activity in those not experiencing chronic medical conditions.
Socioeconomic factors and COVID-19 mortality in immune-mediated rheumatic diseases patients: regional analysis from Argentina, Mexico and Brazil
Authors: Martinez-Martinez Marco Ulises , Isnardi Carolina Ayelen , Alpizar-Rodriguez Deshiré , Pons-Estel Guillermo Javier , Virasoro Belén María , Alfaro María Agustina , Petkovic Ingrid , Quintana Rosana , Berbotto Guillermo , Salinas María Jezabel Haye , Ornella Sofía , Pera Mariana , Colunga-Pedraza Iris Jazmín , Irazoque-Palazuelos Fedra , Reyes-Cordero Greta , Rodriguez-Reyna Tatiana S , Veloz-Aranda Jose Antonio , Skinner-Taylor Cassandra Michele , Juárez-Mora Ingrid Maribel , Silveira Luis H. , Marques Claudia Diniz Lopes , Xavier Ricardo Machado , Kakehasi Adriana Maria , Gomides Ana Paula , dos Reis-Neto Edgard Torres , Pileggi Gecilmara Salviato , Ferreira Gilda Aparecida , da Mota Licia Maria Henrique , Pinheiro Marcelo Medeiros , Calderaro Débora Cerqueira
Published: October 2024

Background

SARS-CoV-2 infection has become a major international issue, not only from a medical point of view, but also social, economic and political. Most of the available information comes from the United States, Europe, and China, where the population and the socioeconomic status are very different from Latin American countries. This study evaluates the effect of regional socioeconomic characteristics on mortality due SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRD) from Argentina, Mexico and Brazil.

Methods

Data from three national registries, SAR-COVID (Argentina), CMR-COVID (Mexico) and ReumaCoV-Brasil (Brazil), were combined. Adult IMRD patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were recruited. National data for each province/state, including population density, number of physicians per inhabitant, income, unemployment, GINI index, Municipal Human Development Index (MHDI), stringency index, vaccination rate and most frequent viral strains per period were assessed as risk factors for mortality due to COVID-19.

Results

A total of 4744 patients were included, 2534 (53.4%) from SAR-COVID, 1166 (24.6%) from CMRCOVID and 1044 (22.0%) from ReumaCoV-Brasil. Mortality due to COVID-19 was 5.4%. In the multivariable analysis, higher number of physicians per 1000 inhabitants and being infected during the vaccination period of each country were associated with lower mortality. After adjustment for socioeconomic factors, there was no association with country of residence and mortality.

Conclusion

These findings corroborate the complex interplay between socioeconomic factors, rheumatic disease activity, and regional disparities as determinants of death due to COVID-19 in Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. Thus, this research provides valuable insights for guiding public health policies and clinical practice in the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Face and face pareidolia in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy indicates different neural processing: an event-related potential study
Authors: Akdeniz Gülsüm , Gumusyayla Sadiye , Vural Gonul , Deniz Orhan , Özışık Pınar
Published: October 2024

Background

Visual perception of face images or face pareidolia can be evaluated with event-related potentials (ERP) for healthy subjects and patients with neurological conditions. In this study, we aimed to analyse event-related potential components such as P100, N100, N170, and vertex-positive potential (VPP) in response to face pareidolia perception in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients.

Methods

ERPs were recorded during the pareidolia test. Waveforms were analzyed and current source density (CSD) maps were generated.

Results

CSD profiles were shown to be interpretable when face and face pareidolia conditions. N100, P100, and N170 components showed larger amplitudes and longer latency in epilepsy patients in response to face pareidolia stimuli compared to real face images. However, the N170 component latency did not differ significantly between epilepsy patients and healthy participants, while the larger amplitude and longer latency of N100 and P100 responses were evoked in healthy patients.

Conclusions

Our results indicate a difference in the neural mechanisms of processing real face information and pareidolia face-like information in TLE patients.
An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Unimodal Prehabilitation with Exercise Intervention to Enhance Postoperative Outcomes in Cancer Surgery
Authors: Steffens Daniel , Hancock Mark , Jiang Wilson , Solomon Michael , Koh Cherry , Hirst Nicholas , Riedel Bernhard
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to update the body of evidence on the efficacy of prehabilitation with exercise interventions, in reducing postoperative complications and length of hospital stay after cancer surgery.

METHODS:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted on MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane Library, CINAHL, AMED, and PsycINFO to identify randomized controlled trials investigating the impact of prehabilitation with exercise interventions for patients undergoing cancer surgery. Primary and secondary outcomes assessed were postoperative complications and length of hospital stay, respectively. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool, and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) methodology was used to determine the strength of evidence. Relative risk and mean difference were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS:

In this updated review, 32 trials (n = 2304 participants) were identified, with 5 trials focused on patients undergoing surgery for genitourinary cancer (n = 422 participants), 9 for lower gastrointestinal cancer (n = 639 participants), 6 for upper gastrointestinal cancer (n = 526), and 11 for lung cancer (n = 717 participants). The majority of included trials exhibited some risk of bias. Evidence of low-to-moderate quality indicated that prehabilitation with preoperative exercise significantly reduced postoperative complication rates by approximately 50% and decreased the length of hospital stay by 2.5 days in patients undergoing lung resection. Preoperative exercise did not demonstrate effectiveness in reducing postoperative complications or length of hospital stay for other cancer populations.

CONCLUSIONS:

Evidence supports the efficacy of prehabilitation with exercise in reducing postoperative complications and length of hospital stay in patients undergoing lung cancer surgery. Further research is warranted to establish the efficacy of unimodal prehabilitation with exercise in genitourinary, lower gastrointestinal, and upper gastrointestinal cancer populations having cancer surgery.
Identification and Verification of Key Genes in Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases Through Analysis of Single-Cell Sequencing Data and TCGA Data
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhuo Changhua , Lin Ruirong , Ke Fayong , Wang Ming , Yang Chunkang
Published: October 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is highly prevalent worldwide, with more patients experiencing colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM). This study aimed to identify key genes in CRLM through single-cell sequencing data reanalysis and experimental validation.

Methods

The study analyzed single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Gene ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were used for gene functional enrichment analysis. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data enabled bulk-RNA expression and survival prognosis analysis. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) detected mRNA expression, whereas Western blot determined protein levels. Cell function experiments assessed SPARC’s impact on CRC cell behavior.

Results

Cluster analysis showed 23 classes among 17 CRLM samples, representing six cell types. A GO and KEGG analysis identified interleukin-1 beta (IL1B), CD2 molecule (CD2), and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) as significant prognostic factors in CRC. Secreted protein acidic and cysteine rich (SPARC) was one of the top differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in tissue stem cells, confirmed in primary and metastatic lesions. Metastatic lesions showed higher expression of SPARC and CRC stem cell marker leucine-rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 (LGR5), which was significantly correlated positively with LGR5 expression. Knockdown of SPARC reduced CRC cell sphere- and colony-formation, invasion, and migration abilities. Overexpression of SPARC significantly increased the malignancy of CRC cells.

Conclusions

Several key genes were identified in the process of CRLM. In CRLM samples and those corresponding to CRC stem cells, SPARC was significantly upregulated. In the therapy of CRLM, SPARC might be a potential target.
Comparison of the antimicrobial reduction effect of photodynamic inactivation with the addition of chlorophyll and curcumin photosensitizer in Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Arifianto Deny , Astuti Suryani Dyah , Medyaz Sarah Ratri , Lestari Septia Budi , Samian Samian , Nurdin Dezy Zahrotul Istiqomah , Hariyani Dita Ayu , Susilo Yunus , Syahrom Ardiansyah
Published: October 2024

Background Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Enterococcus faecalis are pathogenic bacteria of the oral cavity that cause various diseases such as periodontitis and endodontics. These bacteria are easily resistant to antibiotics. Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is a method of inactivating microorganisms that utilizes light to activate a photosensitizer agent (PS) that produces reactive oxygen species causing cell lysis. Methods This study used the PDI method with a 405 nm diode laser at various energy density with the addition PS curcumin or chlorophyll Alfalfa, as much as 1.6 mg/ml on A. actinomycetemcomitans and E. faecalis bacteria. Results The study on E. faecalis bacteria showed that the energy density diode laser irradiation of 1.59 J/cm² gave the percentage of E. faecalis bacteria death 36.7% without PS, 69.30% with the addition of chlorophyll Medicago sativa L and 89.42% with the addition of curcumin. Meanwhile, the bacteria A. actinomycetemcomitans showed that the energy density diode laser irradiation of 1.59 J/cm² gave the percentage of bacterial death 35.81% without PS, 64.39% with the addition of chlorophyll Medicago sativa L and 89.82% with the addition of curcumin. PS was critical to the success of the PDI. Conclusions The addition of PS curcumin increased the effectiveness of reducing bacteria E. faecalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans compared to chlorophyll Medicago sativa L.
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) reduced expression of Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 3 (SCUBE3) and Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in visceral pleural tissue cultures of patients with empyema
Authors: Riendra Muhammad , Lipoeto Nur Indrawaty , Rita Rauza Sukma , Basyar Masrul
Published: October 2024

Abstract* Background Increased expression of signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 3 (SCUBE3) and Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been thought to influence the fibrosis process in many tissues. However, increased expression of these two factors has never been assessed in pleural fibrosis. Pleural fibrosis is a disease that usually results from various infectious processes, such as empyema. Fibrosis formation is recently known to be prevented by Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is the most potent active substance found in Gambir (Uncaria gambir Roxb) leaves. Thus, further research is needed to determine the potential of EGCG to inhibit the process of pleural fibrosis caused by empyema. Methods An in vitro experimental study with post test-only controlled group was conducted on the pleural tissue of all patients who underwent decortication surgery due to empyema at Dr. M. Djamil Hospital, Padang, Indonesia between March 1st and April 30, 2024. Case samples were obtained by consecutive sampling, and three patients who met the inclusion criteria were obtained. Pleural tissue in each patient was then divided into several groups based on the treatment, namely the control group, 50 μg EGCG administration group, and 100 μg EGCG administration group. We used to determine SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 genes expression. Data were tested using ANOVA and Least Significant Difference (LSD) tests. Results There were significant differences in the SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 genes expression of 50 μg and 100 μg EGCG administration groups and the control groups in the 2 × 2 cm sample preparation (p=0.002) (p=0.014, respectively). Significant differences in TGF-β1 expression were also found between the groups treated with EGCG 50 μg and 100 μg and the control group in the 1 × 1 cm preparation (p=0.019). Conclusion EGCG can potentially decrease SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 expression in patients with pleural empyema.
China’s BRI in Central Asia & Its Impact: An Appraisal of the 10 Years
Authors: Jash Amrita , Gokireddy Hima Bindu , S Varshini
Published: October 2024

The year 2023 marked the ten-year anniversary of Chinese President Xi Jinping inaugurating the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) during his state visit to Kazakhstan. This article discusses China’s approach towards Central Asian countries under the BRI and their responses. While China has evidently profited from expanding connectivity along the ancient silk road and meeting its strategic interests, it is essential to understand whether Central Asian states have equally benefited from this initiative. Furthermore, the concern of debt-trap diplomacy has been prevalent in low-income countries where BRI has been operational. In this context, the article seeks to locate Central Asia in BRI, evaluating its impact on the region to determine if the BRI is a win-win for both the parties involved as touted by China. This article argues that despite differing interests and concerns about potential debt-traps, the BRI has been largely beneficial for both China and Central Asia given that BRI investments and projects remain crucial for the growth and development of these states and the region.
Transnational readings in the Trumpocene: Kim Stanley Robinson’s New York 2140 and Chris Beckett’s America City
Authors: Resano Dolores
Published: October 2024

This article discusses two climate fiction novels—one British, one American—that were written in the runup to two major political events on either side of the Atlantic in 2016—the Brexit referendum and the election of Donald Trump to the US presidency—and considers how their focus on a future climate emergency serves as an apt reflection on the mutual reinforcements of neoliberalism, precarization, and populism. By looking at these two novels together through the lens of right-wing populism and notions such as the Capitalocene (Moore), the Trumpocene (Colebrook) and the “critical utopia” (Moylan), I consider how the future climate catastrophes that these novels imagine are equally likely “to be used as opportunities to advance and entrench socially regressive forms of politics and unsustainable trajectories […] as inspire forms of ‘disaster collectivism,’ where acts of community and solidarity flourish” (Newell, 2020: 157). As novels that are deeply concerned with the politics of the present, I consider how Robinson’s and Beckett’s novels are inspired by different utopian inflections that lead to different outcomes but similar diagnoses: that the worst effects of climate change will not be averted because humanity seems bent on its current trajectory.
Interdepartmental standart of anti-drug preventive activities
Authors: Vasilenko Gleb , Shuruhnova Diana , Artem'ev Nikolay
Published: October 2024

The scientific and practical manual combines the results of research work carried out in 2021-2023 in order to: develop basic, uniform in content apporoaches of all interested federal executive authorities to the prevention of illicit drug use and trafficking; determining the basic requirements for such activities; establishing the role and place of specific federal executive authorities in the overall prevention system
Postbiotics for gut health: an overview
Authors: Harris Gemma
Published: October 2024

There is growing interest in postbiotics thanks to their potentially better safety profile compared with probiotics. Postbiotics are byproducts of the healthy bacteria in the gut (probiotic bacteria) breaking down prebiotic fibre. Several fermented foods contain bacterial strains that produce postbiotics. Although research into postbiotics is an emerging field, they are known to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-proliferative and antioxidant activities. Postbiotic supplementation might be particularly beneficial for people with irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease or similar symptoms; they may also help prevent respiratory tract infections. Currently available postbiotics include nutrients and amino acids, as well as exopolysaccharides, enzymes, short-chain fatty acids, bacterial lysates, cell wall fragments and cell-free supernatants. This article will explore existing research around the safety considerations of probiotics compared with postbiotics, the production processes of postbiotics, the different types of postbiotics, their clinical use and effectiveness for gut health, and identify areas for future research.
Lower gastrointestinal signs and symptoms: assessment, investigations, diagnosis and management strategies
Authors: Alsararatee Hasan
Published: October 2024

This clinical review focuses on the most common presentations of lower gastrointestinal (GI) signs and symptoms, exploring their prevalence, aetiology, clinical presentation, and the importance of thorough history-taking and examination. In addition, it discusses the investigations and management plans. This paper builds upon existing studies that focused on the presentations of upper GI signs, symptoms and management plans.
Genomics for gastrointestinal nursing
Authors: Harrison Penny
Published: October 2024

Penny Harrison explores the issue of genomics and discusses how they may impact the role and practice of the gastrointestinal nurse.
The suitability of AI in dermatology for enhanced skin care
Authors: Haykal Diala
Published: October 2024

This piece highlights the tremendous potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the field of dermatology and its suitability in revolutionising patient care. The integration of AI technologies into dermatological practices has the power to significantly improve diagnostics, treatment decisions, and overall patient outcomes. AI algorithms have shown remarkable proficiency in analysing dermatological images with impressive accuracy, such as skin lesions, rashes and moles. By leveraging deep learning and computer vision techniques, AI models can recognise patterns, features, and characteristics of various skin conditions, thereby aiding in accurate diagnosis and assists dermatologists in formulating personalised treatment plans tailored to individual patients.
Review of the genus Ctenoplectra Kirby (Apidae: Apinae: Ctenoplectrini) from India with two new country records
Authors: Anandhan Rameshkumar , SARDAR SAYAN , H.M. YESHWANTH , KAZMI SARFRAZUL ISLAM
Published: October 2024

The oil-collecting bees of the genus Ctenoplectra Kirby from India are revised based on specimens deposited in the National Zoological Collection, Zoological Survey of India and University of Agriculture, GKVK, Bengaluru. The most exciting part of this revision is the addition of two Southeast Asian species of this genus, C. cornuta Gribodo and C. davidi Vachal, to the Indian fauna, which previously consisted of only C. chalybea Smith.
Evaluation of the Secondary Metabolites and Bioactivity of South African Bulbine Natalensis Under Simultaneous Elevated Carbon Dioxide and Temperatures
Authors: Teffo Thabiso Katlego , Dukhan Shalini , Ramalepe Phillemon , Risenga Ida
Published: October 2024

The secondary metabolism in medicinal plants are responsible for their protection against environmental factors and the health-promoting benefits they provide to users. The purpose of this study was to assess the responses of the secondary metabolic system of B. natalensis and its influence on the antioxidant and antibacterial activities. The phytochemical analyses, antioxidant and antibacterial assays were conducted from using harvested leaves, underground stems and roots from whole plants exposed to simultaneous elevated CO2 and temperatures over eight days in a heatwave simulation. Most of the phytochemical groups were present in the leaves, however majority of the tested compounds had consistent presence throughout the plants in all treatments. The underground stems possessed a greater total phenolic, tannin and proanthocyanidin contents than the leaves and roots under elevated CO2 and temperatures. The leaves had a comparatively better antioxidant activity from the treatment than control. Overall, there was consistency in the antibacterial activity in both control and experimental conditions. The tannins and phenolics had greater concentrations throughout the plants under elevated conditions overall, which could indicate their leading role in plant defence and the improvement and maintenance of the medicinal activity of B. natalensis. The responses of the plant parts of B. natalensis under elevated CO2 and temperatures provides newfound insights on the physiological roles plant organs play on the overall productivity and medicinal activity of the species.