bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-cultural diversity analysis: traditional knowledge and uses of freshwater fish species by indigenous peoples of southern Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Iqbal Khalid Javed , Umair Muhammad , Altaf Muhammad , Hussain Tanveer , Ahmad Rana Manzoor , Abdeen Sayed Muhammad Zain Ul , Pieroni Andrea , Abbasi Arshad Mahmood , Ali Shahzad , Ashraf Sana , Amjad Naila , Khan Abdul Majid , Bussmann Rainer W.
Published: January 2023

Background

Fisheries have tremendous cultural and educational importance in human societies. The world is undergoing fast environmental and cultural changes, and local knowledge is being lost. Understanding how people interpret environmental change and develop practices in response to such change is essential to comprehend human resource use. This study was planned with the intent to document and conserve the knowledge about the uses of the freshwater fish fauna among the residents in South Punjab, Pakistan.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were conducted to collect data from informers (N = 88). Principal component analysis, relative frequency citation, fidelity level, relative popularity level, rank-order priority, and similarity index were used to analyze the fish data.

Results

Overall, a total of 43 species of fishes were utilized in the study region, but only 26 species were utilized ethnomedicinally to treat a variety of illnesses such as asthma, body weakness, burn, chicken pox, cold, cough, eyesight, hepatitis, impotence, joint pain, night blindness, skin burn, spleen treatment, stomach infection, and weakness. The uses of fishes were analyzed employing various indices. The highest use value (UV) of 0.86 was calculated for spotted snakehead (Channa punctata), whereas the lowest UV of 0.05 was attained by karail fish (Securicula gora). Moreover, Channa punctata, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita, Oreochromis niloticus, Wallago attu, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Rita rita, Sperata seenghala, Notopterus notopterus, Labeo dyocheilus, Systomus sarana, Puntius punjabensis, Securicula gora, Ompok bimaculatus, and Ompok pabda were the most popular species with RPL = 1.0. Out of the total, 20 species had a “zero” similarity index, while the ethnomedicinal use of 12 species (i.e., Labeo dyocheilus, Labeo boggut, Systomus sarana, Puntius punjabensis, Aspidoparia morar, Securicula gora, Crossocheilus diplochilus, Mastacembelus armatus, Ompok bimaculatus, Ompok pabda, Labeo gonius, and Sperata seenghala) was documented for the first time for a variety of diseases (i.e., body weakness, stomach infection, skin burn, joint pain, impotence, asthma, spleen treatment, and chicken pox).

Conclusion

Our findings showed that the local people of the study area hold noteworthy traditional knowledge about the medicinal and cultural uses of fish species. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of active chemicals and in vivo and/or in vitro activities of chemicals derived from ichthyofauna with the highest FC as well as UVs could be interesting for research on new drugs.
Health-related quality of life and patient-reported symptoms after postoperative proton beam radiotherapy of cervical and endometrial cancer: 2-year results of the prospective phase II APROVE-trial
Authors: Meixner Eva , Wark Antje , Forster Tobias , Weykamp Fabian , Lang Kristin , König Laila , Lindel Katja , Oelmann-Avendano Jan Tobias , Krisam Johannes , Schneeweiss Andreas , Ellerbrock Malte , Mielke Thomas , Hörner-Rieber Juliane , Herfarth Klaus , Debus Jürgen , Arians Nathalie
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The APROVE-trial investigated the tolerability of postoperative proton beam therapy in women with cervical or endometrial cancer. The present analysis evaluated the secondary endpoints of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and patient-reported symptoms.

Methods

25 patients were included in this prospective phase-II-trial and treated with postoperative radiotherapy using protons alone or in combination with chemotherapy. To attain general and gynecologic-specific HRQOL measures, the EORTC-QLQ-C30 questionnaires combined with -QLQ-CX24 for cervical and -QLQ-EN24 for endometrial cancer were assessed at baseline, at the end of RT and up to 2 years after radiotherapy. The results were compared to an age-matched norm reference population. Symptoms were assessed using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) and institutional patient-reported symptoms grading.

Results

Scores regarding global health status were markedly impaired at baseline (mean: 58.0 ± 20.1) compared to reference population data, but significantly (p = 0.036) improved and evened out to comparable norm values 2 years after proton therapy (mean: 69.9 ± 19.3). Treatment caused acute and long-term worsening of pain (p = 0.048) and gastrointestinal symptoms (p = 0.016) for women with endometrial cancer, but no higher-grade CTCAE ≥ 3° toxicity was observed. Dosimetric evaluation of rectum, sigmoid, large and small bowel showed no correlation with the reported gastrointestinal symptoms. After 2 years, fatigue had significantly improved (p = 0.030), whereas patients with cervical cancer experienced more often lymphedema (p = 0.017). Scores for endometrial cancer pertaining to sexual activity (p = 0.048) and body image (p = 0.022) had improved post treatment; in the latter this effect persisted after 2 years.

Conclusion

Proton beam therapy in the adjuvant setting was well tolerated with only low-grade side effects concerning gastrointestinal symptoms, lymphedema and pain. Overall quality of life was impaired at baseline, but patients were able to recover to values comparable to norm population 2 years after proton therapy. Larger studies are needed to confirm whether the benefit of proton therapy translates into a clinical effect. Sexual dysfunction remains an important issue.

Trial registration: The trial was registered at https://clinicaltrials.gov (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03184350, 09th June 2017).
Patient Assessment Chronic Illness Care (PACIC) and its associations with quality of life among Swiss patients with systemic sclerosis: a mixed methods study
Authors: Kocher Agnes , Simon Michael , Dwyer Andrew A. , Blatter Catherine , Bogdanovic Jasmina , Künzler-Heule Patrizia , Villiger Peter M. , Dan Diana , Distler Oliver , Walker Ulrich A. , Nicca Dunja
Published: January 2023

Background

The Chronic Care Model (CCM) is a longstanding and widely adopted model guiding chronic illness management. Little is known about how CCM elements are implemented in rare disease care or how patients’ care experiences relate to health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We engaged patients living with systemic sclerosis (SSc) to assess current care according to the CCM from the patient perspective and their HRQoL.

Methods

We employed an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. First, we conducted a cross-sectional quantitative survey (n = 101) using the Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (PACIC) and Systemic Sclerosis Quality of Life (SScQoL) questionnaires. Next, we used data from individual patient interviews (n = 4) and one patient focus group (n = 4) to further explore care experiences of people living with SSc with a focus on the PACIC dimensions.

Results

The mean overall PACIC score was 3.0/5.0 (95% CI 2.8–3.2, n = 100), indicating care was ‘never’ to ‘generally not’ aligned with the CCM. Lowest PACIC subscale scores related to ‘goal setting/tailoring’ (mean = 2.5, 95% CI 2.2–2.7) and ‘problem solving/contextual counselling’ (mean = 2.9, 95% CI 2.7–3.2). No significant correlations were identified between the mean PACIC and SScQoL scores. Interviews revealed patients frequently encounter major shortcomings in care including ‘experiencing organized care with limited participation’, ‘not knowing which strategies are effective or harmful’ and ‘feeling left alone with disease and psychosocial consequences’. Patients often responded to challenges by ‘dealing with the illness in tailored measure’, ‘taking over complex coordination of care’ and ‘relying on an accessible and trustworthy team’.

Conclusions

The low PACIC mean overall score is comparable to findings in patients with common chronic diseases. Key elements of the CCM have yet to be systematically implemented in Swiss SSc management. Identified gaps in care related to lack of shared decision-making, goal-setting and individual counselling-aspects that are essential for supporting patient self-management skills. Furthermore, there appears to be a lack of complex care coordination tailored to individual patient needs.
Single-cell transcriptomics unveils xylem cell development and evolution
Authors: Tung Chia-Chun , Kuo Shang-Che , Yang Chia-Ling , Yu Jhong-He , Huang Chia-En , Liou Pin-Chien , Sun Ying-Hsuan , Shuai Peng , Su Jung-Chen , Ku Chuan , Lin Ying-Chung Jimmy
Published: January 2023

Background

Xylem, the most abundant tissue on Earth, is responsible for lateral growth in plants. Typical xylem has a radial system composed of ray parenchyma cells and an axial system of fusiform cells. In most angiosperms, fusiform cells comprise vessel elements for water transportation and libriform fibers for mechanical support, while both functions are performed by tracheids in other vascular plants such as gymnosperms. Little is known about the developmental programs and evolutionary relationships of these xylem cell types.

Results

Through both single-cell and laser capture microdissection transcriptomic profiling, we determine the developmental lineages of ray and fusiform cells in stem-differentiating xylem across four divergent woody angiosperms. Based on cross-species analyses of single-cell clusters and overlapping trajectories, we reveal highly conserved ray, yet variable fusiform, lineages across angiosperms. Core eudicotsPopulus trichocarpaandEucalyptus grandisshare nearly identical fusiform lineages, whereas the more basal angiospermLiriodendron chinensehas a fusiform lineage distinct from that in core eudicots. The tracheids in the basal eudicotTrochodendron aralioides, an evolutionarily reversed trait, exhibit strong transcriptomic similarity to vessel elements rather than libriform fibers.

Conclusions

This evo-devo framework provides a comprehensive understanding of the formation of xylem cell lineages across multiple plant species spanning over a hundred million years of evolutionary history.
Integrative omics analyses of the ligninolytic Rhodosporidium fluviale LM-2 disclose catabolic pathways for biobased chemical production
Authors: Vilela Nathália , Tomazetto Geizecler , Gonçalves Thiago Augusto , Sodré Victoria , Persinoti Gabriela Felix , Moraes Eduardo Cruz , de Oliveira Arthur Henrique Cavalcante , da Silva Stephanie Nemesio , Fill Taícia Pacheco , Damasio André , Squina Fabio Marcio
Published: January 2023

Background

Lignin is an attractive alternative for producing biobased chemicals. It is the second major component of the plant cell wall and is an abundant natural source of aromatic compounds. Lignin degradation using microbial oxidative enzymes that depolymerize lignin and catabolize aromatic compounds into central metabolic intermediates is a promising strategy for lignin valorization. However, the intrinsic heterogeneity and recalcitrance of lignin severely hinder its biocatalytic conversion. In this context, examining microbial degradation systems can provide a fundamental understanding of the pathways and enzymes that are useful for lignin conversion into biotechnologically relevant compounds.

Results

Lignin-degrading catabolism of a novel Rhodosporidium fluviale strain LM-2 was characterized using multi-omic strategies. This strain was previously isolated from a ligninolytic microbial consortium and presents a set of enzymes related to lignin depolymerization and aromatic compound catabolism. Furthermore, two catabolic routes for producing 4-vinyl guaiacol and vanillin were identified in R. fluviale LM-2.

Conclusions

The multi-omic analysis of R. fluviale LM-2, the first for this species, elucidated a repertoire of genes, transcripts, and secreted proteins involved in lignin degradation. This study expands the understanding of ligninolytic metabolism in a non-conventional yeast, which has the potential for future genetic manipulation. Moreover, this work unveiled critical pathways and enzymes that can be exported to other systems, including model organisms, for lignin valorization.
Walking pace, handgrip strength, age, APOE genotypes, and new-onset dementia: the UK Biobank prospective cohort study
Authors: He Panpan , Zhou Chun , Ye Ziliang , Liu Mengyi , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wu Qimeng , Zhang Yanjun , Yang Sisi , Xiaoqin Gan , Qin Xianhui
Published: January 2023

Background

The independent and additive associations of walking pace and grip strength on dementia risk and the potential modifying effects of age, APOE phenotypes, and other dementia risk factors on the walking pace and dementia relationships demand further clarification. We aimed to investigate the independent and additive relationships of walking pace and handgrip strength on the risk of new-onset dementia and examine the potentially modifying effects of age, APOE phenotypes, lifestyle factors, and family history of dementia in the relationships.

Methods

A total of 495,700 participants from the UK Biobank, who were free of dementia at baseline, were included in this study. Walking pace was self-defined as slow, average, or brisk. Handgrip strength was assessed by dynamometer and was divided into sex-specific quartiles. The APOE genotypes were determined by a combination variant of rs429358 and rs7412. Other dementia risk factors, including education, physical activity, hypertension, depression, diabetes, and family history of dementia, were also collected. The primary outcome was new-onset all-cause dementia.

Results

Over a median follow-up duration of 12.0 years, 3986 (0.8%) participants developed new-onset all-cause dementia. Compared with those with slow walking pace, participants with average (HR, 0.61; 95%CI: 0.55–0.68) or brisk (HR, 0.59; 95%CI: 0.52–0.67) walking pace had a significantly lower risk of new-onset all-cause dementia. Moreover, compared with those with both slow walking pace and lower handgrip strength (the first quartile), the lowest risk of new-onset all-cause dementia was observed in participants with both average or brisk walking pace and higher handgrip strength (the 2–4 quartiles) (HR, 0.45; 95%CI: 0.40–0.52). Notably, the negative relationship between walking pace and the risk of new-onset all-cause dementia was significantly reduced as APOE ε4 dosage increased (APOE ε4 dosages = 0 or 1: brisk vs. slow: HR, 0.55; 95%CI: 0.48–0.63; vs. APOE ε4 dosages = 2: brisk vs. slow: HR, 1.14; 95%CI: 0.77–1.68; P for interaction = 0.001) or age increased (< 58 [median]: brisk vs. slow: HR, 0.27; 95%CI: 0.18–0.41; vs. ≥ 58 years: brisk vs. slow: HR, 0.55; 95%CI: 0.48–0.63; P for interaction = 0.007).

Conclusions

Walking pace was inversely associated with new-onset dementia in the general population, especially in younger participants and those with lower APOE ε4 dosage. Participants with both faster walking pace and higher handgrip strength had the lowest risk of dementia, suggesting that maintaining both high handgrip strength and fast walking pace may be a more comprehensive strategy for preventing dementia risk.
Knockout of secretin ameliorates biliary and liver phenotypes during alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Kyritsi Konstantina , Wu Nan , Zhou Tianhao , Carpino Guido , Baiocchi Leonardo , Kennedy Lindsey , Chen Lixian , Ceci Ludovica , Meyer Alison Ann , Barupala Nipuni , Franchitto Antonio , Onori Paolo , Ekser Burcin , Gaudio Eugenio , Wu Chaodong , Marakovits Corinn , Chakraborty Sanjukta , Francis Heather , Glaser Shannon , Alpini Gianfranco
Published: January 2023

Background

Alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) is characterized by ductular reaction (DR), liver inflammation, steatosis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. The secretin (Sct)/secretin receptor (SR) axis (expressed only by cholangiocytes) regulates liver phenotypes in cholestasis. We evaluated the role of Sct signaling on ALD phenotypes.

Methods

We used male wild-type and Sct−/− mice fed a control diet (CD) or ethanol (EtOH) for 8 wk. Changes in liver phenotypes were measured in mice, female/male healthy controls, and patients with alcoholic cirrhosis. Since Cyp4a10 and Cyp4a11/22 regulate EtOH liver metabolism, we measured their expression in mouse/human liver. We evaluated: (i) the immunoreactivity of the lipogenesis enzyme elongation of very-long-chain fatty acids 1 (Elovl, mainly expressed by hepatocytes) in mouse/human liver sections by immunostaining; (ii) the expression of miR-125b (that is downregulated in cholestasis by Sct) in mouse liver by qPCR; and (iii) total bile acid (BA) levels in mouse liver by enzymatic assay, and the mRNA expression of genes regulating BA synthesis (cholesterol 7a-hydroxylase, Cyp27a1, 12a-hydroxylase, Cyp8b1, and oxysterol 7a-hydroxylase, Cyp7b11) and transport (bile salt export pump, Bsep, Na+-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide, NTCP, and the organic solute transporter alpha (OSTa) in mouse liver by qPCR.

Results

In EtOH-fed WT mice there was increased biliary and liver damage compared to control mice, but decreased miR-125b expression, phenotypes that were blunted in EtOH-fed Sct−/− mice. The expression of Cyp4a10 increased in cholangiocytes and hepatocytes from EtOH-fed WT compared to control mice but decreased in EtOH-fed Sct−/− mice. There was increased immunoreactivity of Cyp4a11/22 in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis compared to controls. The expression of miR-125b decreased in EtOH-fed WT mice but returned at normal values in EtOH-fed Sct−/− mice. Elovl1 immunoreactivity increased in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis compared to controls. There was no difference in BA levels between WT mice fed CD or EtOH; BA levels decreased in EtOH-fed Sct−/− compared to EtOH-fed WT mice. There was increased expression of Cyp27a1, Cyp8b1, Cyp7b1, Bsep, NTCP and Osta in total liver from EtOH-fed WT compared to control mice, which decreased in EtOH-fed Sct−/− compared to EtOH-fed WT mice.

Conclusions

Targeting Sct/SR signaling may be important for modulating ALD phenotypes.
Autoregressive graph Volterra models and applications
Authors: Yang Qiuling , Coutino Mario , Leus Geert , Giannakis Georgios B.
Published: January 2023

Graph-based learning and estimation are fundamental problems in various applications involving power, social, and brain networks, to name a few. While learning pair-wise interactions in network data is a well-studied problem, discovering higher-order interactions among subsets of nodes is still not yet fully explored. To this end, encompassing and leveraging (non)linear structural equation models as well as vector autoregressions, this paper proposes autoregressive graph Volterra models (AGVMs) that can capture not only the connectivity between nodes but also higher-order interactions presented in the networked data. The proposed overarching model inherits the identifiability and expressibility of the Volterra series. Furthermore, two tailored algorithms based on the proposed AGVM are put forth for topology identification and link prediction in distribution grids and social networks, respectively. Real-data experiments on different real-world collaboration networks highlight the impact of higher-order interactions in our approach, yielding discernible differences relative to existing methods.
A reconfigurable and compact subpipelined architecture for AES encryption and decryption
Authors: Li Ke , Li Hua , Mund Graeme
Published: January 2023

AES has been used in many applications to provide the data confidentiality. A new 32-bit reconfigurable and compact architecture for AES encryption and decryption is presented and implemented in non-BRAM FPG in this paper. It can be reconfigured for the options of different key sizes which is very flexible for the users to apply AES for various application environments. The proposed design employs a single-round architecture and subpipeling to minimize the hardware cost. The fully composite field GF((24)2)-based encryption/decryption and keyschedule lead to the lower hardware complexity and efficient subpipelining for 32-bit data path. In addition, a new subpipelined on-the-fly keyschedule over composite field GF((24)2) is proposed for all standard key sizes (128-, 192-, 256-bit) which generates the roundkeys simultaneously and efficiently. This feature is very useful and efficient when the main key has been changed since AES is a symmetric-key cryptography and the session key usually changes frequently. The proposed reconfigurable and compact design has higher throughput and lower hardware cost. It achieves throughputs of 375Mbits/s with 128-bit key, 318Mbits/s with 192-bit key and 275Mbits/s with 256-bit key on VIRTEX XC4VSX25-12, and the total number of slices is 1766. The proposed reconfigurable and compact AES architecture can be efficiently applied in computing-restricted environments such as wireless and embedded devices.
Breast cancer heterogeneity and its implication in personalized precision therapy
Authors: Guo Liantao , Kong Deguang , Liu Jianhua , Zhan Ling , Luo Lan , Zheng Weijie , Zheng Qingyuan , Chen Chuang , Sun Shengrong
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer heterogeneity determines cancer progression, treatment effects, and prognosis. However, the precise mechanism for this heterogeneity remains unknown owing to its complexity. Here, we summarize the origins of breast cancer heterogeneity and its influence on disease progression, recurrence, and therapeutic resistance. We review the possible mechanisms of heterogeneity and the research methods used to analyze it. We also highlight the importance of cell interactions for the origins of breast cancer heterogeneity, which can be further categorized into cooperative and competitive interactions. Finally, we provide new insights into precise individual treatments based on heterogeneity.
Alpha-B-Crystallin overexpression is sufficient to promote tumorigenesis and metastasis in mice
Authors: Rashidieh Behnam , Bain Amanda Louise , Tria Simon Manuel , Sharma Sowmya , Stewart Cameron Allan , Simmons Jacinta Ley , Apaja Pirjo M. , Duijf Pascal H. G. , Finnie John , Khanna Kum Kum
Published: January 2023

Background

αB-Crystallin is a heat shock chaperone protein which binds to misfolded proteins to prevent their aggregation. It is overexpressed in a wide-variety of cancers. Previous studies using human cancer cell lines and human xenograft models have suggested potential tumor promoter (oncogene) roles for αB-Crystallin in a wide-spectrum of cancers.

Methods

To determine the causal relationship between CRYAB overexpression and cancer, we generated a Cryab overexpression knock-in mouse model and monitor them for development of spontaneous and carcinogen (DMBA)-induced tumorigenesis. In order to investigate the mechanism of malignancies observed in this model multiple techniques were used such as immunohistochemical characterizations of tumors, bioinformatics analysis of publically available human tumor datasets, and generation of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) for in vitro assays (clonogenic survival and migration assays and proteome analysis by mass-spectrometry).

Results

This model revealed that constitutive overexpression of Cryab results in the formation of a variety of lethal spontaneous primary and metastatic tumors in mice. In vivo, the overexpression of Cryab correlated with the upregulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) markers, angiogenesis and some oncogenic proteins including Basigin. In vitro, using E1A/Ras transformed MEFs, we observed that the overexpression of Cryab led to the promotion of cell survival via upregulation of Akt signaling and downregulation of pro-apoptotic pathway mediator JNK, with subsequent attenuation of apoptosis as assessed by cleaved caspase-3 and Annexin V staining.

Conclusions

Overall, through the generation and characterization of Cryab overexpression model, we provide evidence supporting the role of αB-Crystallin as an oncogene, where its upregulation is sufficient to induce tumors, promote cell survival and inhibit apoptosis.
The effect of positive thinking training on hope and adherence to treatment in hemodialysis patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sabouri Fatemeh , Rambod Masoume , Khademian Zahra
Published: January 2023

Background

Patients undergoing hemodialysis are exposed to psychological problems, such as despair, which in turn can be a trigger for them to abandon the treatment process. This study aimed to determine the effect of positive thinking training on hope and adherence to treatment in hemodialysis patients.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was performed on 80 hemodialysis patients referred to two hemodialysis centers in Shiraz, Iran. They were randomly divided into an intervention and a control group. Eight sessions of positive thinking skills training carried out individually on the patients' bedsides. The primary and secondary outcomes were hope and adherence to treatment, respectively. The data were collected using Snyder Hope Questionnaire, End-Stage Renal Disease Adherence Questionnaire, laboratory tests, and weight measurements. Data were analyzed by Chi-square and Paired and Independent T-test using SPSS software version 18.

Results

After the intervention, the mean score of hope was significantly higher in the intervention group (42.1 ± 6.1) than in the control group (38.7 ± 6.5) (p = 0.024). Moreover, after the intervention, the mean score of adherence to treatment was significantly higher in the intervention group (1070.2 ± 80.1) compared to the control group (1018.4 ± 105.3) (p = 0.019). In addition, blood urea nitrogen, phosphate and inter-dialytic weight gain were lower in the intervention group compared to the control group after the intervention.

Conclusions

The findings showed that positive thinking interventions could lead to improvement in hope and adherence to treatment in hemodialysis patients. Positive thinking training could be used in caring of hemodialysis patients to improve their hope and adherence to treatment.

Trial registration RCT Registry: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials; RCT registration number: IRCT20180915041044N1; Registration date: 19/12/2018.
Sustainable refugee camp design in the Dalhamyie settlement (Bekaa, Lebanon) for climate change context
Authors: Tiwari Pallavi , Al Azzawi Nibal , Amir Lübna
Published: January 2023

Emergency shelters are often designed to be of temporary nature but end up adopting a more permanent nature in becoming informal settlements. On one hand, these settlements suffer from the conflicts and environmental pressures. On the other hand, they also bear the inadequacies of services and facilities. This adds to the vulnerability of the refugee population to climatic extremes and environmental extremes along with a low quality of life. The present study aims to identify the pressures both environmental and socio-economic on a refugee camp in the Dalhamyie settlement in Bekaa, Lebanon and design a resilient model which address both internal and external risks. We propose a master plan as a suggested guideline representing a preliminary design umbrella plan that may be updated and altered depending on the population of the community, the site's limitations, and the general availability of resources. To help the local refugees become more resilient and self-sufficient in times of crisis, recommendations are here presented are not strict structural plans but rather a strategic, data-driven collection of actions. With the increasing mental stress that refugees experience, the idea of resilience at all levels is needed to lessen and reinforce the constant environmental, physical, and economic threat that they are subjected to. Residential zoning has been detailed out with respect to the form, structure and assembling of components along with cluster planning within the settlement. Recommendations are not a rigid structural plan but a strategic, data driven set of actions that can be implemented by the local refugee community in order to achieve greater resilience and self-sustainability during crisis situations. Such model is applicable with modifications for other emergency settlements also with varying risk factors. The proposed model addresses the challenges and the multiple risks that the people are exposed to present a framework that can lead to better quality of life in temporary settlements. With more climate refugees, conflict driven refugees and internal refugees, absence of such models was a gap and the authors have tried to build the same through one case study.
IPR treatment and attachments design in clear aligner therapy and risk of open gingival embrasures in adults
Authors: Zhang Yubohan , Wang Xu , Wang Jihong , Gao Jie , Liu Xulin , Jin Zuolin , Ma Yanning
Published: January 2023

Background

The incidence of open gingival embrasures (OGE) in patients after fixed appliance treatment is relatively high, while there are no detailed reports on patients after clear aligner therapy. Also, no clinical studies with large sample size have investigated whether interproximal enamel reduction (IPR) can actually avoid OGE. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of OGE in adults after clear aligner therapy and to investigate the risk of OGE associated with IPR treatment and attachment design, focusing on the amount and distribution in mandibular anterior teeth.

Methods

Pre-treatment and post-treatment intraoral frontal photographs of 225 non-extraction patients were evaluated retrospectively for the occurrence and severity of OGE. The amount of IPR and the number of attachments in the anterior teeth from subjects after screening were recorded according to the first version of clear aligner software (Clincheck, San Jose, USA) and clinical medical documents. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors contributing to OGE.

Results

The incidence of OGE in non-extraction patients after clear therapy between maxillary and mandibular central incisors was 25.7% and 40.3%, respectively. IPR was not associated with the occurrence of OGE but was associated with severity (P < 0.05). The number of attachments in the anterior teeth or central incisors was significantly related to the incidence of OGE (P < 0.05) but was not associated with severity.

Conclusion

A high rate of OGE occurs after clear aligner therapy. Clinicians should be aware of the application of IPR and the design of attachments during clear aligner therapy.
Comparative proteomics study of mitochondrial electron transport system modulation in SH-SY5Y cells following MPP+ versus 6-OHDA-induced neurodegeneration
Authors: Hyon Ju-Yong , Lee Hea Ji , Yun Sung Ho , Han Eun Hee , Chung Young-Ho
Published: January 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide. Several studies have investigated PD for decades; however, the exact mechanism of disease development remains unknown. To study PD, SH-SY5Y cells are often treated with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) or 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) to induce PD. To understand the mechanism of PD pathogenesis, we confirmed protein changes between 6-OHDA- and MPP+-treated SH-SY5Y cells via proteomics analysis using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. 6-OHDA-treated SH-SY5Y cells showed increased expression of electron transporter-related proteins compared to that in the control group, along with decreased expression in MPP+-treated SH-SY5Y cells. However, both down- and upregulation of electron transporter-related proteins increased mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. These proteins were confirmed via protein–protein interaction network analysis using IPA and STRING to induce mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. Cell-based experiments using flow cytometry verified that apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane potential were increased in both 6-OHDA- and MPP+-treated SH-SY5Y cells. Our results provide new insights into PD pathogenesis, thereby contributing to the understanding of the mechanisms of PD development.
New insights of minimum requirement on legumes (Fabaceae sp.) daily intake in Malaysia
Authors: Jaafar Mohd Hasni , Ismail Noor Hassim , Ismail Rosnah , Md Isa Zaleha , Mohd Tamil Azmi , Md Yasin Mazapuspavina , Mat Nasir Nafiza , Ab Razak Nurul Hafiza , Zainol Abidin Najihah , Dehghan Mahshid , Yusof Khairul Hazdi
Published: January 2023

Background

Despite their low energy density and high nutrient content, legumes may be under-recognised as a beneficial food for the prevention and management of obesity and related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aims to analyse the moderation effect of legume intake on the relationship between BMI and the prevalence of CVD among the Malaysian adult population.

Methods

This study addressed communities of urban and rural Malaysia, including adults aged between 35 and 70 years old at the baseline recruitment. A series of standardised questionnaires were used to assess legume intake, history of comorbidities and socio-demographic information. Resting blood pressure measurements and physical examinations were performed to collect blood pressure and anthropometric data. Bivariate analysis was completed to determine the association between legume intake, socio-demographic characteristics and CVD prevalence. Moderation analysis was used to quantify the moderation effect of minimum daily legume intake on the relationship between BMI and CVD prevalence.

Results

This study found that those who consume less than 3 servings of legumes per day benefit from protective effects against CVD risk (POR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.37 – 0.85). Moderation analysis of a minimum of three servings/day for the relationship between BMI and CVD prevalence showed significant effects. The group that benefited the most from this effect was those with a BMI in the range of 26 to 34 kg/m2.

Conclusions

This study provides new insights into the recommendation for legume intake according to the relationship between BMI and the prevalence of CVD in Malaysian adults. This study recommends that those with a BMI of 26 to 34 kg/m2 should consume at least 3 servings of legumes per day to reduce the risk of CVD. Further prospective research is warranted to affirm these findings throughout the Malaysian population.
Protocol for a hybrid II study exploring the feasibility of delivering, evaluating, and implementing a self-management programme for people with neuromuscular diseases at a specialist neuromuscular centre
Authors: Lee Laurence Edward , Kulnik Stefan Tino , Curran Geoffrey M. , Boaz Annette , Ramdharry Gita M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Self-management support (SMS) forms a central pillar in the management of long-term conditions. It is firmly aligned with UK health policy but there is a paucity of evidence exploring how it is enacted in the context of neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). Bridges is a SMS programme originally developed in stroke. A new version of the programme (Neuromuscular Bridges) has recently been co-designed with people with lived experience of NMD and requires evaluation.

The implementation of SMS is inherently complex with potential barriers at the level of the patient, provider, and wider organisation. The success of implementing programmes can be highly dependent on context, indicating a rationale for considering implementation determinants at an early stage. This study aims to explore the feasibility of (1) delivering, (2) evaluating, and (3) implementing Neuromuscular Bridges at a specialist neuromuscular centre.

Methods

This study employs a hybrid II design underpinned by Normalisation Process Theory (NPT), which has been used prospectively to inform the implementation plan and will also inform the analysis. The feasibility of delivering, evaluating, and implementing Neuromuscular Bridges will be assessed using a single-arm pre-post design. In terms of delivery and evaluation, we will explore acceptability, demand within the service, performance of outcome measures, recruitment, and retention.

Implementation strategies have been selected from a refined taxonomy of strategies, mapped to NPT, and targeted at known barriers and facilitators at the specialist centre that were identified from preliminary stakeholder engagement activities. The impact of the strategy bundle on fidelity, acceptability, appropriateness, and adoption will be evaluated using qualitative interviews, administrative data, surveys, and a notes audit.

Conclusions

This this study will provide valuable feasibility data on a co-designed SMS programme for people with NMDs that will be used to inform a larger implementation study, requirements for embedding it in a specialist centre, and rollout to other specialist centres. Using hybrid methodology at the feasibility stage is unusual and this study will provide important insights into the usefulness of taking this approach at this point in the research pipeline.

Trial registration

ISRCTN Trial ID: ISRCTN14208138. Date registered: 18/08/2021.
Safety and feasibility of faecal microbiota transplant for major depressive disorder: study protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Green Jessica E. , McGuinness Amelia J. , Berk Michael , Castle David , Athan Eugene , Hair Christopher , Strandwitz Philip , Loughman Amy , Nierenberg Andrew A. , Cryan John F. , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Jacka Felice
Published: January 2023

Background

Mental disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), are a leading cause of non-fatal burden of disease globally. Current conventional treatments for depression have significant limitations, and there have been few new treatments in decades. The microbiota-gut-brain-axis is now recognised as playing a role in mental and brain health, and promising preclinical and clinical data suggest Faecal Microbiota Transplants (FMT) may be efficacious for treating a range of mental illnesses. However, there are no existing published studies in humans evaluating the efficacy of FMT for MDD.

Methods and design

This protocol describes an 8-week, triple-blind, 2:1 parallel group, randomised controlled pilot trial (n = 15), of enema-delivered FMT treatment (n = 10) compared with a placebo enema (n = 5) in adults with moderate-to-severe MDD. There will be a further 26-week follow-up to monitor longer-term safety. Participants will receive four FMT or placebo enemas over four consecutive days. The primary aims of the study are to evaluate feasibility and safety of FMT as an adjunctive treatment for MDD in adults. Changes in gut microbiota will be assessed as a secondary outcome. Other data will be collected, including changes in depression and anxiety symptoms, and safety parameters.

Discussion

Modification of the microbiota-gut-brain axis via FMT is a promising potential treatment for MDD, but there are no published rigorous clinical trials evaluating its use. If this study finds that our FMT strategy is safe and feasible, a larger fully powered RCT is planned. Further high-quality research in this field is urgently needed to address unmet need.

Trial registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12621000932864
Air–breathing behavior underlies the cell death in limbs of Rana pirica tadpoles
Authors: Ono Satomi F. , Cordeiro Ingrid Rosenburg , Kishida Osamu , Ochi Haruki , Tanaka Mikiko
Published: January 2023

Amphibians shape their limbs by differential outgrowth of digits and interdigital regions. In contrast, amniotes employ cell death, an additional developmental system, to determine the final shape of limbs. Previous work has shown that high oxygen availability is correlated with the induction of cell death in developing limbs. Given the diversity of life histories of amphibians, it is conceivable that some amphibians are exposed to a high–oxygen environment during the tadpole phase and exhibit cell death in their limbs. Here, we examined whether air–breathing behavior underlies the cell death in limbs of aquatic tadpoles of the frog species Rana pirica. Our experimental approach revealed that R. pirica tadpoles exhibit cell death in their limbs that is likely to be induced by oxidative stress associated with their frequent air–breathing behavior.
Are life insurance futures a safe haven during COVID-19?
Authors: Wang Kuan-Min , Lee Yuan-Ming
Published: January 2023

This study aims to examine whether life insurance futures can serve as a hedge against the COVID-19 pandemic and whether they have the characteristics of a safe haven under the impact of the health shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. We chose three life insurance stock futures in India and one in Taiwan as samples, including the market index of the two countries and the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases as sample variables. We used the growth rate of COVID-19 cases as the threshold variable, estimated the asymmetric threshold vector autoregression model, and found that insurance futures in the regime with a significant growth rate of confirmed COVID-19 cases can hedge against COVID-19 risks; therefore, insurance futures are a safe haven for the market. We further estimated the time-varying parameter vector autoregression model, and the impulse response results showed that insurance futures are a safe haven for COVID-19 pandemic risks.
Effects of surgical factors on the outcomes of zygoma reduction malarplasty: a quantitative computed tomography study
Authors: Park Jong Chul
Published: January 2023

Background

Malarplasty is widely performed for zygoma reduction. The effects of body segmentation, plate bending, and postoperative arch location on zygomatic movement have not been analyzed using computed tomography (CT).

Results

We quantitatively analyzed the effects of surgical factors on zygomatic movements via superimposition of preoperative and postoperative CT images using three-dimensional software. Our results showed that segmentation had the most significant effect on the horizontal reduction of malar eminence (β = 0.593, r = 0.696, adjusted r2 = 0.479, F = 79.595; p < 0.001). In addition, upward and posterior arch movements had significant effects on the anterior and posterior movements of the eminence (β = − 0.379 for vertical arch movement, β = 0.324 for arch setback, r = 0.603, adjusted r2 = 0.352, F = 31.943; p < 0.001). The major factors that influenced inward arch movement at the coronoid process included segmentation and inward movement at the arch osteotomy site. To prevent interference of the coronoid process and arch, surgeons should pay attention to the degree of segmentation (β = 0.349) and inward movement at the arch osteotomy site (β = 0.494; r = 0.688, adjusted r2 = 0.464, F = 50.412; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Surgical factors related to malarplasty affect the movement of specific parts of the zygoma. In addition, accurate application is possible by considering the anatomical structure of the application area when using the bending plate.
Allergic reactions to propofol in adult patients with egg or soybean allergy: a retrospective cohort study from a large database of a single institute
Authors: Iwakiri Masaki , Inoue Reo , Uchida Kanji
Published: January 2023

Background

In recent years, many reports have indicated that propofol is safe to administer to patients with egg/soybean allergy in Western countries. Egg allergy is more frequent in Asia, but there are limited reports regarding allergic reactions to propofol use among adults. This study aimed to determine whether propofol causes allergic reactions in patients with egg/soybean allergy.

Methods

Adult patients who underwent surgery involving anesthesiologists from 2018 to 2021 were included. In all patients, we reviewed food allergy information in their electronic medical record and extracted anesthetics. Patients with egg/soybean allergy were subdivided into two groups on the basis of intraoperative use of propofol. We evaluated each group for allergic reactions within 24 h after the induction of anesthesia. The primary outcome was a relative risk of allergic reactions after propofol use for patients with egg/soybean allergy.

Results

In total, 22,111 patients with 28,710 anesthesia records were identified. Among patients with egg/soybean allergy, 173 (0.8%) patients and 237 (0.8%) anesthesia records were included in the study. Among the records of egg-/soybean-allergic patients, 151 were administered propofol, and 86 were not. The relative risk of allergic reactions after propofol use for patients with egg/soybean allergy was 1.14 (95% confidence interval, 0.10–12.4; p = 0.74).

Conclusion

The use of propofol in patients with egg/soybean allergy does not significantly increase the relative risk of allergic reactions. Therefore, anesthesiologists can appropriately determine the indication for propofol, even in patients with egg/soybean allergy.

Trial registration

UMIN-CTN, UMIN000049321 registered 26 October 2022 — retrospectively registered, https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000056167
Embracing multiple stakeholders’ perspectives in defining competent simulation facilitators’ characteristics and educational behaviours: a qualitative study from Denmark, Korea, and Australia
Authors: Christensen Margrethe Duch , Østergaard Doris , Stagelund Søren , Watterson Leonie , Chung Hyun Soo , Dieckmann Peter
Published: January 2023

Background

Simulation-based learning (SBL), used for achieving various learning goals, is spreading around the world. However, it is still open, to what extend SBL needs to be adapted to local cultures. This study aimed to explore how various stakeholder groups perceive what constitutes a competent simulation facilitator across three different countries.

Methods

We conducted an interview study with learners, facilitators, and facilitator trainers. Semi-structured interviews with 75 participants underwent content analysis. Participants were recruited from Denmark, Korea, and Australia. Interviews focused on characteristics of simulation faculty, as well as educational behaviours. Interviews were audio-recorded, translated to English, transcribed, and content analysed by inductively developing codes using the Nvivo software. In the first coding round, each interview was treated separately. In the analysis round, the individual codes between countries and stakeholder groups were compared to identify similarities and differences.

Results

Our study shows high demands for the simulation facilitator role. A competent simulation facilitator should possess the following characteristics: (1) subject matter expertise, (2) personal approach and traits, (3) self-awareness and reflection, and (4) communication skills. Educational behaviours comprised (1) supporting a safe learning environment, 2) working goal-oriented with the course, (3) engaging before the course with preparation, (4) leading scenarios, and (5) facilitating debriefings. Comparative analysis showed similar wishes towards simulation facilitators from the different stakeholders in different countries, though the same terms might mean different details in the various settings.

Conclusions

These findings offer guidance for learning needs analysis and the establishment of faculty development programmes. The study also shows that the personal characteristics are an important aspect of the facilitator role above and beyond displaying educational behaviours.