bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Brodalumab on Scalp, Palmoplantar, and Genital Psoriasis: A Descriptive Pilot Study
Authors: Mastorino Luca , Celoria Valentina , Macagno Nicole , Cariti Caterina , Susca Sara , Siliquini Niccolò , Ortoncelli Michela , Stroppiana Elena , Verrone Anna , Burzi Lorenza , Quaglino Pietro , Ribero Simone , Dapavo Paolo
Published: October 2023

Introduction. Psoriasis of the scalp, genital areas, and palms and soles represents a treatment challenge in clinical practice. Randomized clinical trials and real‐life studies investigating the efficacy of biological drugs in these sites are scarce. The present is a descriptive retrospective real‐life study with the aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of brodalumab in these difficult‐to‐treat areas. Materials and Methods. 158 psoriatic patients with scalp involvement, 69 with genital involvement, and 54 with palmoplantar involvement being treated with brodalumab were assessed at weeks 16, 28, and 48 using PSSI (Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index), sPGA‐G (Physician Global Assessment of Genitalia), and ppPASI (Palmoplantar Psoriasis Area and Severity Index). Results. The achievement of relative PSSIs (75%, 90%, and 100%) was already observed in week 16. 86% achieved PSSI75, 80% PSSI90, and 75% PSSI100. The sPGA‐g 0/1 was achieved by 83% of patients at week 16 and 100% at week 24 and 48. At week 16 ppPASI75, 90, and 100 were all reached by 76.9% of patients; at week 24, 84.6% of patients reached all relative ppPASI. Conclusions. Brodalumab proved to be effective and safe in the treatment of scalp, genital, and palmoplantar regions.
Individual Fish Recognition Method with Coarse and Fine-Grained Feature Linkage Learning for Precision Aquaculture
Authors: Yin Jianhao , Wu Junfeng , Gao Chunqi , Yu Hong , Liu Liang , Jiang Zhongai , Guo Shihao
Published: October 2023

With the increasing level of precision and intelligence in the aquaculture, real-time mastery of the growth status of aquaculture individuals has become an important means to improve aquaculture efficiency and save resources and the environment. Therefore, accurate individual recognition of underwater fish has become one of the key technologies for precision aquaculture. In order to cope with the impact of the complex underwater environment on the recognition accuracy, this paper proposes a coarse and fine-grained features learning method for individual fish recognition. The method consists of a coarse-grained feature learning network and two fine-grained feature learning networks. The trunk of the network is responsible for learning coarse-grained features of the fish, the first branch learns fine-grained features of fish from head, body, and tail, and the second branch learns fine-grained features of fish from upper and lower fins. we supplemented different levels of noise and attack to the training set of fine-grained features and enriched the grayscale variation to cope with the complexity and variability of the underwater environment. The simulation experimental results show that the method achieves more than 96.7% in key indicators such as Rank-1 and Rank-5, and also performs well in other fish recognition tasks with certain generalization.
Tim-3 Is Differentially Expressed during Cell Activation and Interacts with the LSP-1 Protein in Human Macrophages
Authors: Ocaña-Guzman Ranferi , Ramon-Luing Lucero A. , Vazquez-Bolaños Luis A. , Rodríguez-Alvarado Michelle , Bulhusen-Rodriguez Fausi , Torres-Hatem Alonso , Gonzalez-Torres Karen , de Alba-Alvarado Mariana Citlalli , Sada-Ovalle Isabel
Published: October 2023

T-cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin Domain 3 (TIM-3) is an immune checkpoint receptor known to regulate T-cell activation and has been targeted for immunotherapy in cancer and other diseases. However, its expression and function in other cell types, such as macrophages, are poorly understood. This study investigated TIM-3 expression in human macrophages polarized to M1 (stimulated with IFN-γ and LPS) and M2 (stimulated with IL-4 and IL-13) phenotypes using an in vitro model. Our results show that M1 macrophages have a lower frequency of TIM-3+ cells compared to M2 macrophages at 48 and 72 hr poststimulation. Additionally, we observed differential levels of soluble ADAM 10, an enzyme responsible for TIM-3 release, in the supernatants of M1 and M2 macrophages at 72 hr. We also found that the TIM-3 intracellular tail might associate with lymphocyte-specific protein 1 (LSP-1), a protein implicated in cell motility and podosome formation. These findings enhance our understanding of TIM-3 function in myeloid cells such as macrophages and may inform the development of immunotherapies with reduced immune-related adverse effects.
Gestational Trophoblastic Disease with Coexisting Progressing Pregnancy: Personalised Treatment Modalities
Authors: Ulrikh Elena , Dikareva Elena , Govorov Igor , Komlichenko Eduard , Pervunina Tatiana , Li Olga , Zhamborova Oksana , Dzharbaeva Aminat , Deynega Viktor , Artemenko Veronika , Urmancheeva Adel
Published: October 2023

Purpose. Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) coexisting with a steadily progressing pregnancy is an extremely rare condition presented in the literature as a single case or case series of successful delivery. The purpose of this study was to describe five cases of GTD and present possible management strategies for such patients. Methods. Clinical data of five pregnancies with coexisting GTD were identified within the Almazov National Medical Research Centre from 2018 to 2021. Results. Three cases of multiple pregnancies with complete hydatidiform moles and two cases of singleton pregnancies with intraplacental choriocarcinoma and invasive hydatidiform moles were identified. Three pregnancies were prolonged and ended with preterm deliveries. Malignant transformation of the GTD accounted for 60% of the cases. The condition of newborns was based on the level of prematurity and functional immaturity, and in all cases, it was aggravated by anemia. Conclusion. GTD coexisting with progressing pregnancy is threatened by the risks of preterm delivery, miscarriage, hemorrhage, and disease progression and requires monitoring in a multidisciplinary clinic experienced in the management of patients with malignant tumors during pregnancy. In cases of prolonged pregnancy against the background of GTD, we suggest the following monitoring during pregnancy: pelvic, abdominal ultrasound/MRI (without contrast), prenatal invasive fetal karyotype testing in cases of singleton pregnancy, lung X-ray/CT with uterine shielding, weekly assessment of β-hCG levels, and dynamic monitoring of the fetus. The following postnatal monitoring should be performed: morphological examination of the placenta, weekly assessment of β-hCG levels up to normalization, then monthly assessment up to six months, and control of β-hCG level of the newborn.
Intronic Variants of the Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme 2 Gene Modulate Plasma ACE2 Levels and Possibly Confer Protection against Severe COVID‐19
Authors: Ahmed Rubaiat , Saba Abdullah Al , Paul Anik , Nur Jasmin , Alam Md Sohrab , Chakraborty Sajib , Howlader Md. Zakir Hossain , Islam Laila N. , Nabi A. H. M. Nurun
Published: October 2023

Membrane‐bound angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor acts as the entry point for the novel coronavirus, SARS‐CoV‐2. Polymorphisms in the ACE2 gene may alter viral binding, regulate the expression of ACE2, and thus, affect disease severity. In this study, 68 COVID‐19 patients with varying degrees of severity and 40 healthy controls were enrolled. The genetic landscape of the ACE2 gene was explored by whole exome sequencing of 29 individuals, and specific regions of ACE2 were analyzed for the rest of the participants via PCR, followed by barcode‐tagged sequencing. The mean soluble ACE2 level in the plasma of healthy controls and patients did not vary significantly but was higher in the patient group (3.77 ± 1.55 ng/mL vs. 3.94 ± 1.42 ng/mL). Analysis of exon 1, exon 2, and exon 8 of the ACE2 gene revealed that these regions are highly conserved in our population. Investigation of exon 11 and its flanking intronic region revealed that deletions in a stretch of 18T nucleotides in the noncoding region significantly decrease ACE2 levels in plasma, as individuals harboring wild‐type variants had higher plasma ACE2 levels compared to those harboring T1del, T2del, and T3del variants. However, the intronic variants were not found to be significantly associated with disease severity.
Cyclophotocoagulation in Neovascular Glaucoma with Near-Total Synechial Angle Closure
Authors: Wang Jessie , Chun Lindsay Y. , Qiu Mary
Published: October 2023

Objective. To describe a single surgeon’s experience utilizing prompt primary slow-burn transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (CPC) with prior or concurrent anti-VEGF and subsequent aqueous shunt as needed in NVG eyes with near-total synechial angle closure at presentation. Methods. Retrospective chart review of all NVG patients with uncontrolled IOP, active anterior segment NV, near-total synechial angle closure, and no contraindications to prompt anti-VEGF who received CPC within 3 days of presentation with at least 6 months of follow-up. Results. Eight patients with mean age 60.6 years were included. Underlying etiologies were CRVO (

N
=
3

), PDR (

N
=
2

), CRAO (

N
=
1

), BRVO (

N
=
1

), and chronic RD (

N
=
1

). All eyes underwent CPC with intravitreal anti-VEGF within 3 days of presentation. Five patients did not require subsequent aqueous shunts through a mean follow-up of 15 months; most recent visual acuities ranged from 20/40 to LP, and IOPs ranged from 5 to 11 mmHg on 0 to 3 IOP-lowering medications. Three patients who required subsequent tubes had complete regression of active anterior segment NV at the time of surgery. Most recent visual acuities ranged from 20/100 to 20/125, and IOPs ranged from 8 to 14 mmHg on 0 meds at a mean follow-up of 10 months. No eyes developed uncontrolled inflammation, sympathetic ophthalmia, or phthisis. Conclusion. Prompt primary slow-burn CPC with prior or concurrent anti-VEGF may be an effective strategy to immediately lower IOP in acute NVG eyes with active anterior segment NV and near-total synechial angle closure. If IOP becomes uncontrolled later, an aqueous shunt can be implanted in a controlled setting after active anterior segment NV has regressed.
Proactive Approach to Measure Safety Management on Building Projects in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Choudhry Rafiq M. , Zafar Idrees , Almatawa Mansour Saleh
Published: October 2023

Safety management is important throughout the world specifically on building projects, which are prone to accidents due to their unique operations, dynamic and ever-changing nature. In every country, contractors implement safety management systems (SMSs) to avoid accidents and comply with applicable laws, regulations and to provide safe work environments for their workers. Nonetheless, accidents still happen on many building projects in the country. The objective of this work is to measure safety management as perceived on building projects by employing a proactive approach in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to improve site safety. A survey instrument is utilized to gather data from building projects. Another questionnaire is used to conduct interviews with the key managers on the same projects. Analysis of the questionnaire survey is performed after entering the data into SPSS software by applying factor analysis and multiple linear regression. Factor analysis extracted two significant factors, including “management commitment, employee involvement, and safety training”—factor 1, and “project safety plan, safety committee, and safe use of equipment”—factor 2, which proactively measure the implementation of safety management on the building projects. The safety model obtained by multiple regression analysis identifies two significant contributors to the performance of the SMS. Analysis of the interviews complemented and validated the results of the questionnaire survey. The findings provide in-depth understanding of proactively measuring safety management on building projects for the construction industry practitioners to make project sites safer.
The Disposal of Placenta among Indigenous Groups Globally: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Moeti Cecilia , Mulaudzi Fhumulani Mavis , Rasweswe Molatelo Melitah
Published: October 2023

Introduction. The placenta, or afterbirth, plays a vital role in supplying nutrients and oxygen via the umbilical cord. Western medicine sees the placenta as a medical waste and discards it after delivery. Meanwhile, indigenous groups observe rituals or ceremonies prior to their disposal since it bears sacred importance. Aim. The aim of the literature review is to review the current literature on indigenous methods of disposing placenta. Methods. Through the EBSCOhost search engine, the authors had access to the following databases: CINAHL; MEDLINE; E-Journals; Health Sources: Nursing/Academic Edition; Scopus; and African Journals Online. A manual search of the grey literature through Google Scholar and Google Search engines, as well as citation searching using reference lists, was also used. The following keyword searches came up: placental disposal, placental waste, placental release, indigenous placental disposal, traditional placental disposal, cultural placenta, and placental rituals. The authors followed the inclusion criteria of qualitative, quantitative, or mixed research articles or reports from experts and different organisations published between 2013 and 2022 in English. Findings. The following three themes with subthemes emerged in the context of this review paper: (1) placental consumption (increases milk production, prevents postpartum depression, and prevents postpartum bleeding); (2) placental burial (burial site determines the child’s fate, protection of the child, and fertility); and 3). artifacts (memorabilia). Conclusion. Indigenous placental disposal methods have a significant value to Indigenous women globally. The rituals performed have a special meaning attached to them. It is important for Western medicine to respect and support indigenous placental disposal methods and ensure safe handling from the healthcare facilities to their homes.
Circulating miR-320b Contributes to CD4+ T-Cell Proliferation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus via MAP3K1
Authors: Li Zutong , Wang Rou , Wang Dandan , Zhang Shujie , Song Hua , Ding Shuai , Zhu Yantong , Wen Xin , Li Hui , Chen Hongwei , Liu Shanshan , Sun Lingyun
Published: October 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies and tissue inflammation. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising candidate therapy for SLE owing to the immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. Circulating miRNAs are small, single-stranded noncoding RNAs in a variety of body fluids that regulate numerous immunologic and inflammatory pathways. Recent studies have revealed many differentially expressed circulating miRNAs in autoimmune diseases including SLE. However, the role of circulating miRNAs in SLE has not been extensively studied. Here, we performed small RNA sequencing analysis to compare the circulating miRNA profiles of SLE patients before and after MSC transplantation (MSCT), and identified a significant decrease of circulating miR-320b level during MSCT. Importantly, we found that the expression of circulating miR-320b and its target gene MAP3K1 was closely associated with SLE disease activity. The in vitro experiments showed that decreased MAP3K1 level in SLE peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was involved in CD4+ T-cell proliferation. In MRL/lpr mice, miR-320b overexpression aggravated symptoms of SLE, while miR-320b inhibition could promote disease remission. Besides, MSCs regulate miR-320b/MAP3K1 expression both in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggested that circulating miR-320b and MAP3K1 may be involved in CD4+ T-cell proliferation in SLE. This trial is registered with NCT01741857.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring Provides Durable Glycemic Benefit in Adolescents and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: 12-Month Follow-Up Results
Authors: Miller Kellee M. , Bauza Colleen , Kanapka Lauren G. , Clements Mark A. , DeSalvo Daniel J. , Hood Korey , Messer Laurel H. , Sherr Jennifer , Bergamo Katherine , Criego Amy , Freiner Emily , Lyons Sarah K. , Monzavi Roshanak , Moore Wayne , Prahalad Priya , Simmons Jill H. , Sulik Mark , Wadwa R. Paul , Weinstock Ruth S. , Willi Steven M. , Williams Kristen , Laffel Lori M. ,   for the CITY Study Group
Published: October 2023

Objective. To further evaluate glycemic outcomes during the observational extension phase of the Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Intervention for Teens and Young Adults randomized clinical trial (RCT). Subjects and Methods. Following a 26-week RCT comparing CGM with blood glucose monitoring (BGM) in 153 adolescents and young adults aged 14 to <25 years old with suboptimally controlled type 1 diabetes, 70 (89%) participants in the BGM group initiated use of CGM (referred to as BGM–CGM cohort), and 70 (95%) participants in the CGM group continued to use of CGM (CGM–CGM cohort) for an additional 26 weeks. Results. In the CGM–CGM cohort, mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) decreased from 8.9% ± 0.9% (74 ± 9.8 mmol/mol) at randomization to 8.3% ± 1.3% (67 ± 14.2 mmol/mol) at 52 weeks (

p
<
0.001

); however, significant improvement in time in target range (TIR) 70–180 mg/dL was not observed from prerandomization (38% ± 13%) to 52 weeks (41% ± 18%). Median percent time <70 mg/dL decreased from 3.0% before randomization to 1.1% at 52 weeks (

p
<
0.001

). In the BGM–CGM cohort, mean HbA1c decreased from 8.9% ± 1.2% (74 ± 13.1 mmol/mol) before CGM initiation to 8.5% ± 1.3% (69 ± 14.2 mmol/mol) after 26 weeks of CGM use (

p
<
0.001

) and mean TIR increased from 34% ± 12% to 38% ± 15% (

p
=
0.01

). The median percent time <70 mg/dL decreased from 3.3% before CGM initiation to 1.2% after 26 weeks of CGM use (

p
<
0.001

). No participants discontinued CGM use during the extension phase. Conclusions. This further evaluation of CGM supports the findings of the preceding RCT that use of CGM improves glycemic control and reduces hypoglycemia in adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes. This trial is registered with NCT03263494.
Quality Jam from Baobab (Adansonia digitata L) Fruit Pulp Powder: Formulation and Evaluation of Its Physicochemical and Nutritional Properties
Authors: Wasihun Abebe Asmamaw , Berhe Goitom Gebreyohannes , Sbhatu Desta Berhe , Abay Kiros Hagos , Gebreyohannes Gebreselema
Published: October 2023

Adansonia digitata L (Baobab) is a large plant species which thrives in many semiarid regions of the world with remarkable economic and nutritional importance. In Ethiopia, it grows in deserts and hot lowlands. Industrially, baobab fruit pulp (powder) is used for producing good quality jams. This study was carried out to (a) develop a formulation protocol for producing high-quality baobab jam, (b) characterize the jam using standard physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory evaluation methods, and (c) examine the effects of time and temperature of storage on the quality as well as shelf life of the jam. Out of the seven formulations tested, a formulation enriched with 55 g table sugar, 45 g baobab fruit powder, 0.50 g ascorbic acid, and 0.40 to 0.60 g citrus pectin jelling (formulation no. 6) and another one enriched with 60 g table sugar, 40 g baobab fruit powder, 0.50 g ascorbic acid, and 0.40 to 0.60 g citrus pectin jelling (formulation no. 7) resulted in the best jam products. The jam product of formulation no. 7 enriched with 0.50 g ascorbic acid and 0.60 g citrus pectin jelling was better in terms of storage stability and sensory acceptability. Increasing storage time (up to 45 to 90 days) and temperature (from 10–12°C to 25–27°C) lowered the products’ nutritional quality and sensory acceptability. High-microbial growths were observed in the products stored at higher temperature longer, but all the microbial loads were far below the acceptable limit. In the absence of measures that improve their shelf lives, household and small-scale jam products have to be consumed fresh or within weeks after their preparation.
Enitociclib, a Selective CDK9 Inhibitor, Induces Complete Regression of MYC+ Lymphoma by Downregulation of RNA Polymerase II Mediated Transcription
Authors: Frigault Melanie M. , Mithal Arushi , Wong Harvey , Stelte-Ludwig Beatrix , Mandava Vinay , Huang Xin , Birkett Joseph , Johnson Amy J. , Izumi Raquel , Hamdy Ahmed
Published: October 2023

Double-hit diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DH-DLBCL) is an aggressive, and often refractory, type of B-cell non–Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) characterized by rearrangements in MYC and BCL2. Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) regulates transcriptional elongation and activation of transcription factors, including MYC, making it a potential targeted approach for the treatment of MYC+ lymphomas. Enitociclib is a well-tolerated and clinically active CDK9 inhibitor leading to complete metabolic remissions in 2 of 7 patients with DH-DLBCL treated with once weekly 30 mg intravenous administration. Herein, we investigate the pharmacodynamic effect of CDK9 inhibition in preclinical models and in blood samples from patients [DH-DLBCL (n = 10) and MYC+ NHL (n = 5)] treated with 30 mg i.v. once weekly enitociclib. Enitociclib shows significant regulation of RNA polymerase II Ser2 phosphorylation in a MYC-amplified SU-DHL-4 cell line and depletion of MYC and antiapoptosis protein MCL1 in SU-DHL-4 and MYC-overexpressing SU-DHL-10 cell lines in vitro. Tumor growth inhibition reaching 0.5% of control treated SU-DHL-10 xenografts is achieved in vivo and MYC and MCL1 depletion as well as evidence of apoptosis activation after enitociclib treatment is demonstrated. An unbiased analysis of the genes affected by CDK9 inhibition in both cell lines demonstrates that RNA polymerase II and transcription pathways are primarily affected and novel enitociclib targets such as PHF23 and TP53RK are discovered. These findings are recapitulated in blood samples from enitociclib-treated patients; while MYC downregulation is most robust with enitociclib treatment, other CDK9-regulated targets may be MYC independent delivering a transcriptional downregulation via RNA polymerase II.

Significance:

MYC+ lymphomas are refractory to standard of care and novel treatments that downregulate MYC are needed. The utility of enitociclib, a selective CDK9 inhibitor in this patient population, is demonstrated in preclinical models and patients. Enitociclib inhibits RNA polymerase II function conferring a transcriptional shift and depletion of MYC and MCL1. Enitociclib intermittent dosing downregulates transcription factors including MYC, providing a therapeutic window for durable responses in patients with MYC+ lymphoma.
Deep Learning Application to Detect Glaucoma with a Mixed Training Approach: Public Database and Expert-Labeled Glaucoma Population
Authors: Cellini Florencia , Caamaño Deborah , Carrasco Belen , Juberías José R. , Ossa Carolina , Bringas Ramón , de la Fuente Francisco , Franco Pablo , Coronado David , Pastor Jose Carlos
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Artificial intelligence has real potential for early identification of ocular diseases such as glaucoma. An important challenge is the requirement for large databases properly selected, which are not easily obtained. We used a relatively original strategy: a glaucoma recognition algorithm trained with fundus images from public databases and then tested and retrained with a carefully selected patient database. Methods: The study’s supervised deep learning method was an adapted version of the ResNet-50 architecture previously trained from 10,658 optic head images (glaucomatous or non-glaucomatous) from seven public databases. A total of 1,158 new images labeled by experts from 616 patients were added. The images were categorized after clinical examination including visual fields in 304 (26%) control images or those with ocular hypertension and 347 (30%) images with early, 290 (25%) with moderate, and 217 (19%) with advanced glaucoma. The initial algorithm was tested using 30% of the selected glaucoma database and then re-trained with 70% of this database and tested again. Results: The results in the initial sample showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 76% for all images, and 66% for early, 82% for moderate, and 84% for advanced glaucoma. After retraining the algorithm, the respective AUC results were 82%, 72%, 89%, and 91%. Conclusion: Using combined data from public databases and data selected and labeled by experts facilitated improvement of the system’s precision and identified interesting possibilities for obtaining tools for automatic screening of glaucomatous eyes more affordably.
Non-Hypertensives and Those with Normal Cholesterol Are More Likely to Have Concomitant Cancer amongst Patients with Ischemic Stroke: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Registry-Based Study
Authors: Tang Kendra Jing Ying , Saffari Seyed Ehsan , Narasimhalu Kaavya , Queck Kian Kheng , De Silva Deidre Anne
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Patients with cancer are known to have an increased risk of ischemic stroke (IS) around the time of their diagnosis. However, there is a paucity of data in Asian populations, and as such, we aimed to determine cancer incidence rates and patterns in Asian IS patients as well as investigate the differences in vascular risk profile of IS patients with and without concomitant cancer. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study using data from the Singapore Stroke and Cancer registries. We defined cases as patients with IS and a cancer diagnosis 2 years before or after the index IS. Cancer incidence was determined using the same direct age-standardization method performed for the Singapore general population in the 2015 Singapore cancer report. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze differences in vascular risk factors. Results: Among 21,068 IS patients (mean age, 67.9 ± 13.3 years), 6.3% (1,330) were found to have concomitant cancer; 4.4% (935) had prior cancer while 1.8% (395) had cancer diagnoses within 2 years following IS. The cancer incidence among IS patients was 3,393 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1,937–4,849) per 100,000 person-years compared to 219–231 per 100,000 person-years in the general population. Older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.02 [95% CI, 1.01–1.02] per year), males (OR, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.11–1.41), Chinese ethnicity (OR, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.37–1.89]) and a lower prevalence of hypertension (OR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.73–0.97)]), and hyperlipidemia (OR, 0.53 [95% CI, 0.45–0.62]) were independently associated with cancer-related IS. Conclusions: The age-standardized cancer incidence was 15 times higher in IS patients than the general population. IS patients with concomitant cancer were older and had a lower prevalence of vascular risk factors.
Cognitive Profile in Parkinson’s Disease Dementia Patients with Low versus Normal Cerebrospinal Fluid Amyloid Beta
Authors: Tufekcioglu Zeynep , Lange Johannes , Pedersen Kenn Freddy , Tysnes Ole-Bjørn , Alves Guido , Emre Murat
Published: October 2023

Introduction: In patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) amyloid beta 1-42 (Ab42) at baseline is the most consistent CSF biomarker as a risk factor for developing dementia. Low CSF Ab42 is, however, a typical hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Hence, low CSF Ab42 in patients with PD may indicate presence of comorbid AD pathology and may predict a more AD-like cognitive profile when they develop dementia. Our study aimed to investigate if low CSF Ab42 at baseline is associated with a more AD-like cognitive profile in PD patients with dementia. Methods: In a prospectively followed-up, population-based cohort of newly diagnosed PD patients, we compared the cognitive profile of dementia in those with a low CSF Ab42 level at baseline with that of patients who had normal levels at the time when they developed dementia. Four different cognitive domain z-scores (memory, attention, executive, visuospatial) were calculated. Patients were subdivided into three tertiles or categorized dichotomously based on the baseline CSF Ab42 levels as measured by electrochemiluminescence and ELISA. Results: During 10-year follow-up, 37 patients met the inclusion criteria. Memory domain composite z-scores, memory subtest z-scores, and the difference between long-delay free recall versus recognition scores were not significantly different between the groups. Composite z-scores of visuospatial functions significantly differed between the tertiles, which was not significant after Bonferroni correction. In the dichotomous group analysis, z-scores of visuospatial functions significantly differed between the two groups. The other cognitive domain z-scores were not significantly different. Conclusions: In patients with PD dementia, low CSF Ab42 level at baseline is not associated with a specific cognitive profile.
Dietary Patterns and Healthy or Unhealthy Aging
Authors: Dominguez Ligia J. , Veronese Nicola , Barbagallo Mario
Published: October 2023

Background: The aging process is complex, comprising various contributing factors influencing late-life conditions and eventual occurrence of chronic diseases that generate high financial and human costs. These factors include genetic proneness, lifestyle conducted throughout life, environmental conditions, as well as dietary aspects, among others, all together modulating precise pathways linked to aging, making longevity a multidimensional event. Summary: Compelling evidence support the concept that nutritional determinants have major impact on the risk of age-associated non-communicable diseases as well as mortality. Nutrition research has turned in recent years from considering isolated nutrients or foods to focusing on combinations of foods in dietary patterns in relation to their associations with health outcomes. This narrative review focuses attention on dietary patterns that may contribute to healthy or unhealthy aging and longevity with examples of traditional dietary patterns associated with healthy longevity and reviewing the association of healthy plant-based and unhealthy ultra-processed diets with frailty, a condition that may be considered a hallmark of unhealthy aging. Key Message: There is currently accumulated evidence confirming the key role that dietary patterns mainly of plant origin may exert in modifying the risk of age-associated chronic diseases and healthy longevity. These types of dietary models, unlike those in which the use of ultra-processed food is frequent, are associated with a reduced risk of frailty and, consequently, with healthy aging.
Anesthetic Management with Propofol in a Patient with Rasmussen’s Encephalitis Complicated by Intractable Partial-Onset Epileptic Seizures: A Case Report
Authors: Akazawa Mai , Yan Guoshan , Hirai Rina , Kitagawa Hirotoshi
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Rasmussen’s encephalitis (RE) is a progressive and chronic ailment characterized by drug-resistant epileptic seizures. RE is uncommon, and no documented accounts of its anesthetic management exist. Anesthetic management without causing epileptic seizures is important in RE. Here, we present a case of safe anesthetic management in a pediatric patient with RE. Case Presentation: A 7-year-old boy who was diagnosed with RE at the age of 6 years was scheduled for supernumerary tooth extraction under general anesthesia. The patient was being treated with prednisolone, sodium valproate, zonisamide, lacosamide, and famotidine. Despite receiving antiepileptic therapy, the patient experienced partial epileptic seizures several times per week. The seizures presented as numbness in his right hand and progressed to tonic-clonic seizures affecting the right side of his body. On the day of the surgical procedure, the patient was administered regular doses of antiepileptic drugs and prednisolone. Anesthesia was induced and maintained using a combination of propofol, remifentanil, and rocuronium. The surgical procedure was successfully performed, and the patient awakened smoothly from anesthesia. No epileptic seizures were observed intra- or postoperatively. Conclusion: RE typically presents with drug-resistant seizures and the initial symptoms are usually refractory partial seizures. Propofol is well-established as a treatment option for refractory status epilepticus, and it reduces the frequency of spikes in patients with partial epilepsy. In this case, general anesthesia without epileptic seizures was achieved using propofol.
Relato de caso em reabilitação profissional: contribuições da Terapia Ocupacional na Interface Saúde e Trabalho
Authors: Barros Juliana de Oliveira , Lancman Selma , Bastos Jenifer Monteiro
Published: October 2023

A Reabilitação Profissional enquanto estratégia de intervenção objetiva produzir cuidado em saúde, a partir da articulação entre ações terapêuticas e de profissionalização direcionadas a sujeitos que vivenciaram ruptura laboral, de modo a subsidiar a retomada das relações sociais, cotidianas e de trabalho. Trata-se de relato de caso contemplando a prática da terapia ocupacional em reabilitação profissional, desenvolvido a partir de análise documental de prontuário, seguido por entrevista para complementação e validação das informações coletadas. Para construção da narrativa acerca do itinerário e das intervenções realizadas no contexto de um ambulatório de saúde e trabalho de um hospital escola de São Paulo, adotou-se como norteador o CARE Guideline. Foi possível evidenciar a trajetória de um sujeito em processo de reabilitação profissional em serviço de saúde piloto, elucidar algumas das ações realizadas, aprofundar-se nas problemáticas vivenciadas ao longo do itinerário construído e versar sobre as potencialidades da reabilitação profissional como estratégia de cuidado em saúde. A existência de serviços de saúde que adotem a reabilitação profissional enquanto estratégia de cuidado mostra-se fundamental diante da insuficiência desta modalidade de ação no âmbito da Previdência Social Brasileira e frente as suas potencialidades para a promoção do engajamento ocupacional e ampliação da participação social.
Ler ou não ler: eis a questão?
Authors: Nassif Silvia Cordeiro
Published: October 2023

Este ensaio coloca em discussão o ensino e aprendizagem da notação musical convencional. Tomando como ponto de partida algumas posições de estudiosos da área sobre a importância ou não em se considerar a escrita musical um conhecimento necessário, procura aprofundar os argumentos apresentados. Com o objetivo de chegar a algumas conclusões, ainda que provisórias, o texto é conduzido através de duas questões centrais: 1- Qual a função efetiva da notação musical para a música e nos processos educativos? 2- Como a aprendizagem da escrita musical pode ser pensada do ponto de vista do desenvolvimento? Tomando como bases teóricas a filosofia da cultura do Circulo de Bakhtin e a psicologia histórico cultural de Vigotski, levanta e analisa alguns pontos que poderão servir de balizas para organizar o trabalho pedagógico. Entre as conclusões apresentadas, destacam-se: a noção de que a notação convencional cumpre um papel que vai além do registro dos sons e permite uma olhar analítico para a música; a constatação dos limites da escrita não apenas para músicas de tradição oral, mas para a própria música europeia de concerto; a importância das vivências práticas musicais nos processos de aquisição das notações pela criança; as diferentes formas de registro musical que acontecem no curso do desenvolvimento psíquico. As considerações finais apontam para o fato de que a defesa ou não do ensino da escrita só adquire sentido quando são analisadas as situações contextuais de ensino como um todo.
Criação musical coletiva: por uma educação humanizadora na infância
Authors: Galon Mariana
Published: October 2023

O estudo aqui apresentado é um recorte da pesquisa de mestrado da autora. Nesta pesquisa foram investigados os processos educativos originados da prática social da criação musical coletiva por meio participação, observação e análise de cinco atividades de criação musicais coletivas realizadas por crianças que fazem parte de um projeto social, a fim de identificar se esses processos contribuem para a formação humana destas crianças. Compreendem-se as atividades de criação musical coletivas como práticas sociais que favorecem a convivência pautada no diálogo e na colaboração. Para a investigação que nos propomos realizar, foi adotada a metodologia da pesquisa participante em que a coleta de dados partiu de uma inserção dentro desse espaço, para que as observações desses processos educativos acontecessem no convívio com as crianças durante a realização das atividades de criação musical coletiva. Como resultado foi possível observar as transformações nas relações entre as crianças, no que diz respeito ao desenvolvimento do diálogo pautado na amorosidade, conquista da autonomia e a busca pela humanização.
A Radiohistographic Analysis of Growth Factor–Mediated Sinus Augmentation in Atrophic Maxillae: A 30-Month Follow-up Study
Authors: Gayatri Pamidimarri Sai Divya , Kumar Amanna Baron Tarun , Shah Rucha , Gowda Triveni Mavinakote , Krishna Vempati Satya
Published: October 2023

A total of 20 atrophic maxillary sinuses were augmented with recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor BB (rhPDGF-BB), alloplast, and bovine xenograft using a direct approach. CBCT imaging was performed at baseline, immediately postoperatively, and at 6 and 30 months postoperatively. A histologic evaluation revealed the bone bridging and bone regenerative efficacy of the graft material. Radiographic evaluation determined the ridge height (H) and volume of the graft (V) to be as 3.02 ± 1.35 mm at baseline (H0), 15.18 ± 2.52 mm (H1) and 1,106.10 ± 398.84 mm3 (V1) immediately postoperatively, 14.79 ± 2.30 mm (H2) and 1,086.95 ± 396.86 mm3 (V2) at 6 months, and 1,058 ± 391.83 mm3 (V3) at 30 months, with a significant gain in the residual ridge height at 6 months and no significant loss or gain in sinus volume postoperatively.
Pilot Study: Periosteal Mattress Sutures as an Alternative to Pins and Screws in Guided Bone Regeneration in the Esthetic Zone
Authors: Moreno Ximena , Neira Patricio , Mandakovic Danica , Strauss Franz Josef , Cavalla Franco
Published: October 2023

Objectives: To quantify the buccal bone thickness, area, and perimeter following guided bone regeneration (GBR) using stabilizing periosteal sutures. The loss in hard tissue volume may impair proper implant placement. GBR has been used to regenerate the lost alveolar ridge prior to or at the same time as dental implant placement. The most important factor for GBR success is graft stability. The periosteal mattress suture (PMS) stabilizing technique is an alternative to pins and screws to stabilize bone grafting material and has the advantage of not requiring the removal of the fixing devices. Materials and Methods: A CBCT was acquired before and 6 months after surgery from six patients who underwent GBR with the PMS stabilizing technique. Images were analyzed for buccal bone thickness, area, and perimeter. Results: The mean change in buccal bone thickness was 3.42 mm (± 1.31 SD) and proved statistically significant (P = .005). The mean change in bone crest area also proved statistically significant (P = .001). No significant difference was found in bone perimeter (P = .12). Conclusions: The PMS technique delivered optimal results without clinical complications. This study shows the potential of this technique as an alternative to pins or screws for graft stabilization in the esthetic zone.
Clinical Comparison of Vascular Bleeding Time Creep Between Osseodensification and Conventional Drilling of Implant Osteotomy Sites
Authors: Gandhi Yazad , Bhatavadekar Neel , Padhye Ninad , Neiva Rodrigo
Published: October 2023

This study compared the onset of vascular bleeding between osseodensification and conventional drilling of implant osteotomy sites. Patients with type III trabecular bone requiring a single missing tooth replacement were included and allocated to either Group A (test) or Group B (control). In Group A, the osseodensification group (OD), an implant osteotomy was carried out using Densah Burs (Versah) in the counterclockwise direction; in Group B, the standard drilling group (SD), Densah Burs were run in the clockwise direction. An endoscope was introduced into the osteotomy to visualize and measure the time taken for initiation of bleeding (BI) and for blood to fill the osteotomy site (BF). A total of 40 osteotomy sites (23 in the maxilla and 17 in the mandible) were included in this cross-sectional study. The mean age of study participants was 50.1 ± 8.28 years. The mean BI time for Groups A and B was 18.54 ± 2.48 seconds and 16.89 ± 1.92 seconds, respectively (P = .02); the mean BF time for Groups A and B was 41.92 ± 3.19 seconds and 37.95 ± 2.73 seconds, respectively (P < .001). Osseodensification does not seem to negatively affect or induce loss of bone vascularity. Clinicians should note that osseodensified sites might take slightly longer to fill with blood following an osteotomy.
Assessing avian diversity and conservation status in Dighal Wetlands, Haryana, India
Authors: Parul  , Kumar Parmesh
Published: October 2023

Birds are considered sensitive indicators of ecosystem health and functionality in freshwater wetlands. Assessment of birdassemblages in wetland habitats is, therefore, emphasised from a sustainable management perspective. Bird surveys were conducted from October 2020 to September 2022. These surveys aimed to assess the community composition and status of avifauna in Dighal wetlands, an important bird area in the Jhajjar District of Haryana, India. Data collection employed point counts and opportunistic encounter methods. A total of 154 bird species belonging to 108 genera, 47 families, and 18 orders were recorded. Of these, 75 species were residents, 60 were winter migrants, and 10 were summer migrants. The greatest species richness was observed for the order Passeriformes (54), followed by Charadriiformes (22), Anseriformes (17), and the rest of the 15 orders. Anatidae was the most dominant family with 17 species, constituting 11% of the bird community in the study area. Data on local abundance revealed that 10 species were common, 23 were fairly common, 83 were uncommon, and 38 were rare in the study area. Among the recorded avifauna, one species is classified as Endangered, three as Vulnerable, and eight as Near Threatened in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; 17 species are listed in the Appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); and 11 are included in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. These wetlands also support 40 species of birds, which have a declining population trend globally. The occurrence of migrants and species of global conservation priority underscores the importance of these wetlands as a conservation site and wintering ground for avifauna due to the extensive food resources and rich biodiversity they support. The present study provides baseline information for future research on monitoring bird assemblages and proper management of the Dighal wetlands of Haryana.
Studies on the response of House Sparrow Passer domesticus to artificial nest-boxes in rural Arakkonam and Nemili taluks, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: M. Pandian
Published: October 2023

This study evaluated the response of House Sparrows Passer domesticus to artificial nest-boxes installed in human dwellings in 30 villages in Arakkonam and Nemili taluks, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu between February and July 2019, with help of school students who installed 245 artificial nest-boxes in their houses. House Sparrows attempted to build nests in 32 nest-boxes by frequent visits, built partial nests in 51, and built active nests followed by successful breeding in 32 nest-boxes; there was no response to the remaining 130. A significant relationship was detected between the type of house and the adoption of boxes by the birds. The maximum response was seen in tiled houses, followed by concrete and thatched houses. House Sparrows preferred nest-boxes placed at heights between 3 and 4 m. At the end of the breeding season, a total of 80 chicks successfully emerged from 32 active nests. Some mortality in adult birds due to ceiling fans and predatory animals such as House Crows and Domestic Cats was reported. Active nests in nest-boxes and birds were found in villages where mobile phone towers were installed. Of 32 active nests enumerated in nest-boxes, 22 were found within a 500 m radius of mobile phone towers, two from 500–1,000 m and eight from 1,000–2,000 m. Further study is planned to examine the relationship between mobile towers and nest site selection by sparrows. A survey done through a questionnaire reveals that 95% of residents were aware of and concerned about the declining populations of House Sparrow.
Vertebrate assemblages on fruiting figs in the Indian eastern Himalaya’s Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary
Authors: Gogoi Akangkshya Priya , Sethy Janmejay , Kumar Awadhesh , Parbo Dipika , Chatakonda Murali Krishna , Maletha Ajay
Published: October 2023

Ficus is undeniably one of the most important plants in the tropical forest in the Indian eastern Himalaya. The species composition and assemblages were analysed on fruiting figs on the west bank of Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS), Arunachal Pradesh. Figs trees are often ecologically significant keystone species because they sustain the population of the many seed-dispersing animals that feed on these fruits. This research endeavors to comprehend the dynamics of vertebrate assemblages inhabiting fruiting figs within the West bank of PWS. Over a span of 60 days and a cumulative 89 hours of observation, both direct sightings and indirect indicators of vertebrate presence were integrated. The outcome revealed a diverse spectrum of 54 vertebrate species, comprising 43 avian and 11 mammalian species, distributed across four Ficus species; concurrently, alternative plant species accommodated 28 avian and four mammalian species. Among these, the pre-eminence of green pigeons within Ficus species underscores their feeding behaviors, underscoring the vital role of figs as a dietary cornerstone within PWS’s west bank. Notably, the comparative underrepresentation of vertebrates on the local fig species Ficus drupacea offers intriguing insights. The findings substantiate the significance of figs as a nourishment resource and instigate the necessity for extended investigations to fully unravel the intricate reliance of vertebrates on Ficus species within the tapestry of tropical forests.
All Christians Can Hear God’s Voice
Authors: Chrisna David Dwi
Published: October 2023

YWAM is one of the many actors that have played an important role in the “pentecostalization” of global Christianity. Rooted in a classical pentecostal denomination and committed to mission in the spirit of the ecumenical movement, YWAM has been a catalyst for the process of translating, introducing, and disseminating the pentecostal distinctives initially isolated only in classical pentecostal denominations and charismatic renewal groups to the broader Christian world. By looking at YWAM as a product of the classical pentecostal groups who struggled to define their relationship with other Christians, I argue that the pentecostal distinctives have two meanings. For some, they become a particular marker of identity that distinguishes Pentecostals from other Christians. For some others, like YWAM, it becomes a universal sign of spirituality that all Christians can experience.