bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro and in vivo antileishmanial activity of the hanging sedge flavonoids based on bio‐ guided fractionation assay
Authors: Moradian Neda , Hatam Gholamreza , Hamedi Azadeh , Pasdaran Ardalan
Published: March 2023

As a major public health issue, cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) has a number of complications, including drug resistance and poor response to conventional treatments. Over the last decade, research on natural sources for finding new antileishmanial agents has been a critical part of tropical disease research. Natural products also should be regarded as one of the most valuable applications for CL infection drug development. In this study, we assessed the in vitro and in vivo antileishmanial potential of Carex pendula Huds. (hanging sedge) methanolic extract and its fractions against Leishmania major produced cutaneous infection. Although the methanolic extract and its fractions exhibited suitable activity, the ethyl acetate fraction showed the best activity (with the half maximal inhibitory concentration IC50 = 1.627 ± 0.211 mg/mL). The toxicity and selectivity indices (SI) of all samples were determined in murine peritoneal macrophage cells (J774A.1) using the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test. The flavonoid components of the ethyl acetate fraction were identified using liquid chromatography electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI MS/MS). Nine chemical compounds were identified in this fraction, including three flavonols, four flavanonols, and two flavan derivatives. L. major‐infected mice were used as an in vivo model because the methanolic extract was effective against L. major promastigotes in the mammalian cell line J774A.1 with SI = 2.514 (tail lesion size model). In silico analysis of identified compounds also revealed a favorable interaction between compounds 2–5 and L. major protein targets (3UIB, 4JZX, 4JZB, 5L4N, and 5L42). According to the findings of this study, the ethyl acetate fraction (as flavonoid fraction) exhibited considerable in vitro antileishmanial activity.
In silico and in vitro analyses of a novel FoxO1 agonist reducing Aβ levels via downregulation of BACE1
Authors: Lv Ming‐Ti , Wang He‐Cheng , Meng Xiao‐Wen , Shi Ya‐Ting , Zhang Yi‐Min , Shan Lin‐Lin , Shi Ru‐Ling , Ni Tian‐Jun , Duan Ying‐Chao , Yang Zhi‐Jun , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2023

Aims

FoxO1 is an important target in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, FoxO1‐specific agonists and their effects on AD have not yet been reported. This study aimed to identify small molecules that upregulate the activity of FoxO1 to attenuate the symptoms of AD.

Methods

FoxO1 agonists were identified by in silico screening and molecular dynamics simulation. Western blotting and reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays were used to assess protein and gene expression levels of P21, BIM, and PPARγ downstream of FoxO1 in SH‐SY5Y cells, respectively. Western blotting and enzyme‐linked immunoassays were performed to explore the effect of FoxO1 agonists on APP metabolism.

Results

N‐(3‐methylisothiazol‐5‐yl)‐2‐(2‐oxobenzo[d]oxazol‐3(2H)‐yl) acetamide (compound D) had the highest affinity for FoxO1. Compound D activated FoxO1 and regulated the expression of its downstream target genes, P21, BIM, and PPARγ. In SH‐SY5Y cells treated with compound D, BACE1 expression levels were downregulated, and the levels of Aβ1‐40 and Aβ1‐42 were also reduced.

Conclusions

We present a novel small‐molecule FoxO1 agonist with good anti‐AD effects. This study highlights a promising strategy for new drug discovery for AD.
Living donor liver transplant candidate and donor selection and engagement: Meeting report from the living donor liver transplant consensus conference
Authors: Jesse Michelle T. , Jackson Whitney E. , Liapakis AnnMarie , Ganesh Swaytha , Humar Abhinav , Goldaracena Nicolas , Levitsky Josh , Mulligan David , Pomfret Elizabeth A. , Ladner Daniela P. , Roberts John P. , Mavis Alisha , Thiessen Carrie , Trotter James , Winder Gerald Scott , Griesemer Adam D. , Pillai Anjana , Kumar Vineeta , Verna Elizabeth C. , LaPointe Rudow Dianne , Han Hyosun H. ,   the AST LDLT Consensus Conference Working Group
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is a promising option for mitigating the deceased donor organ shortage and reducing waitlist mortality. Despite excellent outcomes and data supporting expanding candidate indications for LDLT, broader uptake throughout the United States has yet to occur.

Methods

In response to this, the American Society of Transplantation hosted a virtual consensus conference (October 18–19, 2021), bringing together relevant experts with the aim of identifying barriers to broader implementation and making recommendations regarding strategies to address these barriers. In this report, we summarize the findings relevant to the selection and engagement of both the LDLT candidate and living donor. Utilizing a modified Delphi approach, barrier and strategy statements were developed, refined, and voted on for overall barrier importance and potential impact and feasibility of the strategy to address said barrier.

Results

Barriers identified fell into three general categories: 1) awareness, acceptance, and engagement across patients (potential candidates and donors), providers, and institutions, 2) data gaps and lack of standardization in candidate and donor selection, and 3) data gaps regarding post‐living liver donation outcomes and resource needs.

Conclusions

Strategies to address barriers included efforts toward education and engagement across populations, rigorous and collaborative research, and institutional commitment and resources.
Comparative effectiveness and safety of direct oral anticoagulants versus warfarin among patients with recurrent venous thromboembolism
Authors: Kang Hye‐Rim , Dietrich Eric A. , Huang Pei‐Lin , Lo‐Ciganic Wei‐Hsuan , DeRemer Christina E. , Park Haesuk
Published: March 2023

The comparative effectiveness and safety of oral anticoagulant therapies to prevent a second recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains undetermined. We aimed to compare the benefits and harms of direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) and warfarin therapies in preventing second recurrent VTE and major bleeding events among patients with a recurrent VTE episode following anticoagulation therapy for incident VTE. A retrospective cohort analysis of two large national insurance claims databases was conducted for patients with two episodes of VTE. Cox proportional hazards models were used after inverse probability treatment weighting to compare risks of second recurrent VTE and major bleeding events. Compared with warfarin, DOAC therapy was associated with significantly decreased risk of second recurrent VTE with no significant difference in risk of major bleeding events. Our findings suggest that, compared with warfarin, DOACs may reduce risk of second VTE recurrence among patients who have experienced one recurrence.
Seborrheic keratosis
Authors: Barthelmann Sara , Butsch Florian , Lang Berenice M. , Stege Henner , Großmann Bernd , Schepler Hadrian , Grabbe Stephan
Published: March 2023

Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is the most common benign epidermal tumor in clinical dermatological practice. This review summarizes current knowledge about the clinical and histological appearance, epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of SK. There are different subtypes of SK based on clinical presentation and histologic findings. Several factors, including age, genetic predisposition, and possibly also exposure to ultraviolet radiation, are thought to contribute to the development of SK. The lesions can occur on all areas of the body except for the palms and soles, but the most common sites are the face and upper trunk. The diagnosis is usually made clinically, and in some cases by dermatoscopy or histology. Many patients prefer to have the lesions removed for cosmetic reasons although there is no medical indication. Treatment options include surgical therapy, laser therapy, electrocautery, cryotherapy, and topical drug therapy, which is currently in development. Treatment should be individualized depending on the clinical picture and patient preference.
Mouse and rat ultrasonic vocalizations in neuroscience and neuropharmacology: State of the art and future applications
Authors: Premoli Marika , Pietropaolo Susanna , Wöhr Markus , Simola Nicola , Bonini Sara Anna
Published: March 2023

Mice and rats emit ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs), which may express their arousal and emotional states, to communicate with each other. There is continued scientific effort to better understand the functions of USVs as a central element of the rodent behavioral repertoire. However, studying USVs is not only important because of their ethological relevance, but also because they are widely applied as a behavioral readout in various fields of biomedical research. In mice and rats, a large number of experimental models of brain disorders exist and studying the emission of USVs in these models can provide valuable information about the health status of the animals and the effectiveness of possible interventions, both environmental and pharmacological. This review (i) provides an updated overview of the contexts in which ultrasonic calling behaviour of mice and rats has particularly high translational value, and (ii) gives some examples of novel approaches and tools used for the analysis of USVs in mice and rats, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. The relevance of age and sex differences as well as the importance of longitudinal evaluations of calling and non‐calling behaviour is also discussed. Finally, the importance of assessing the communicative impact of USVs in the receiver, that is, through playback studies, is highlighted.
Prey predictability and preparation versus recovery breathing strategies in European shags Gulosus aristotelis (L.) diving in different habitats
Authors: Carlsen Astrid A. , Wright Jonathan , Lorentsen Svein‐Håkon , Lea Stephen E. G.
Published: March 2023

A recent study on the diving behaviour of European shags (Gulosus aristotelis (L.)) foraging in kelp forests off rocky coasts of Norway suggests surface durations are related only to the duration of the preceding dive, and hence are being used for respiratory recovery. These results contrast with earlier reports concerning shags foraging in highly tidal estuarine waters off the coast of Lundy Island, SW England, where there was a stronger relationship between dive durations and preceding pre‐dive surface durations, suggesting the use of preparatory variation in oxygen loading. These two datasets were collected using different methods, and statistically analysed in quite different ways, so the contrasting results here could be due to different methodologies rather than the ecological differences between the two foraging environments. Here, we re‐analyse the two datasets using similar statistical methods, and we confirm the contrasting results produced by the two datasets. We, therefore, conclude that shag breathing strategies do differ between these two marine environments, presumably reflecting adaptive facultatively plastic responses to differences in predictability of foraging dive durations. Off the Norwegian coast, unpredictable variation in the depth and availability of pelagic prey in complex environments may require more responsive post‐dive respiratory recovery on the surface after each dive. In the more uniform English near‐shore environment, however, pre‐dive preparatory oxygen loading customised to match predictable dive‐to‐dive variation in benthic prey depths and foraging durations, may be more time and energy efficient.
Examining the Ability, Motivation and Opportunity (AMO) framework in HRM research: Conceptualization, measurement and interactions
Authors: Bos‐Nehles Anna , Townsend Keith , Cafferkey Kenneth , Trullen Jordi
Published: March 2023

Despite the increasing popularity of the Ability, Motivation, Opportunity (AMO) framework in the Human Resource Management (HRM) field, AMO research is at a crossroads in theoretical and empirical development. This is due to (a) a lack of clarity about the conceptualisation and measurement of AMO variables, (b) the construction of AMO articles that do not distinguish between AMO differences and AMO‐enhancing HRM practices and fail to integrate them, (c) a lack of understanding about how AMO variables at the individual and organizational levels interact to generate individual and organizational performance, and (d) a lack of consideration of the process (mediators and moderators) through which AMO generates performance gains. Based on the analysis of 104 quantitative HRM articles published between 1997 and 2022, this study helps to draw clearer distinctions among AMO variables and levels of analysis. The review of the empirical literature shows that there is excessive heterogeneity with regard to the conceptualization and utilisation of AMO variables, which in turn leads to scale proliferation. We find that research on AMO‐enhancing HRM practices and AMO differences is rarely combined and tends to be tested at a single level rather than more logical cross‐level effects between AMO‐enhancing HRM practices, AMO differences and performance. We also found that whereas Ability and Motivation differences mediate the relationship between AMO‐enhancing HRM practices and performance, opportunity appears to be a boundary condition in the relationship between Ability and Motivation with performance outcomes. The paper concludes with relevant avenues for future AMO research suggested for the field of HRM.
Bumping to a rollator walker: How pretibial hematomas create more costs than pretibial lacerations
Authors: Seppälä Toni , Grünthal Vahur , Koljonen Virve
Published: March 2023

Pretibial lacerations (PL) and pretibial hematomas (PH) are debilitating traumas among the elderly and infirm. The injuries are frequently grouped together despite differences in treatment and symptoms. Patients are known to have multiple contacts in health care, perhaps because of inadequate treatment. Despite the burden, financial costs have not been assessed. Calculate and compare the treatment costs of PLs and PHs for differences and provide economic incentives to treat and diagnose patients optimally. From linkage to ICD10 diagnoses, we analysed NordDRG product invoices generated by the treatment of the patients. We calculated and compared the costs of treatment in both cohorts from the invoices. This method has not been previously used for analysing wound care costs. Mean treatment costs were 1800€ (PL) and 3300€ (PH). The total costs, emergency room, surgical treatment, and inpatient care of PHs were higher than PLs (P = .0486, P = .0002, P = .0058, P = .6526). PLs generate more costs from the outpatient clinic but were not statistically significant (P = .6533). PHs cause a higher economic burden than PLs. Costs arise from repeat ER visits and the need for surgeries because of delayed treatment. PLs have multiple contacts in the wound clinic. Improvement in the diagnosis and treatment of both injuries is needed.
Determining the periodontal phenotype—Probe transparency versus actual: A diagnostic study
Authors: Abdelhafez Reem Sami , Mustafa Noor Mohammad
Published: March 2023

Aims

Assessment of the validity of the transparency of the periodontal probe as a tool for determining the periodontal phenotype.

Materials and Methods

The periodontal phenotype was assessed at the six upper anterior teeth of 75 subjects using two methods. One is through assessing the transparency of the periodontal probe upon insertion into the gingival sulcus. The second method was through the assessment and clustering of the width of keratinized gingiva clinically and the gingival and buccal plate thickness on Cone Beam Computed Tomography scan.

Results

The probe transparency approach correctly identified thick periodontal phenotype in most cases (41 out of 43 [95%]). However, this was not the case for thin periodontal phenotype; probe transparency approach identified 64% of the thin sites (261 out of 407) and misclassified nearly one third of the patients.

Conclusion

The probe transparency approach is a valid approach in identifying the phenotype in subjects with thick phenotype but not in subjects with thin phenotype.

Clinical Significance

The definition of periodontal phenotype has recently changed. Accurate designation has been shown to affect treatment outcomes especially esthetic ones in different disciplines of dentistry. Probe transparency is commonly used by clinicians and researchers. Assessment of the validity of this method based on the most recent definition and compared to actual assessment of bone and gingival thickness is of great clinical value.
Influence of size and shape of the auricular surfaces on subchondral bone density distribution in the sacroiliac joint
Authors: Poilliot Amélie , Hammer Niels , Toranelli Mireille , Doyle Terence , Gay‐Dujak Max Hans‐Peter , Müller‐Gerbl Magdalena
Published: March 2023

The sacroiliac auricular surface has a variable morphology and size. The impact of such variations on subchondral mineralization distribution has not been investigated. Sixty‐nine datasets were subjected to CT‐osteoabsorptiometry for the qualitative visualization of chronic loading conditions of the subchondral bone plate using color‐mapped densitograms based on Hounsfield Units in CT. Auricular surface morphologies were classified into three types based on posterior angle size: Type 1: >160°, Type 2: 130–160° and Type 3: <130°. Auricular surface size was categorized based on the mean value (15.4 cm2) separating the group into ‘small’ and ‘large’ joint surfaces. Subchondral bone density patterns were qualitatively classified into four color patterns: two marginal patterns (M1 and M2) and two non‐marginal patterns (N1 and N2) and each iliac and sacral surface was subsequently categorized. ‘Marginal’ meant that 60–70% of the surface was less mineralized compared with the highly dense regions and vice versa for the ‘non‐marginal’ patterns. M1 had anterior border mineralization and M2 had mineralization scattered around the borders. N1 had mineralization spread over the whole superior region, N2 had mineralization spread over the superior and anterior regions. Auricular surface area averaged 15.4 ± 3.6 cm2, with a tendency for males to have larger joint surfaces. Type 2 was the most common (75%) and type 3 the least common morphology (9%). M1 was the most common pattern (62% of surfaces) by sex (males 60%, females 64%) with the anterior border as the densest region in all three morphologies. Sacra have a majority of surfaces with patterns from the marginal group (98%). Ilia have mineralization concentrated at the anterior border (patterns M1 and N2 combined: 83%). Load distribution differences related to auricular surface morphology seems to have little effect on long‐term stress‐related bone adaptation visualized with CT‐osteoabsorptiometry. Higher iliac side mineralization was observed in larger joint surfaces and age‐related morphomechanical size alterations were seen in males.
Oleic acid‐induced interleukin‐36γ: A possible link between facial skin redness and sebum
Authors: Kawamoto Akane , Kuwano Tetsuya , Watarai Etsuko , Igarashi Takanori , Katayama Yasushi , Kushida Ken , Nakamura Shun , Murase Takatoshi , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Ishikawa Junko
Published: March 2023

Background

Redness of the facial skin is an important cosmetic concern. Although qualitative and quantitative modifications of sebum on the skin surface are major pathogenic factors of chronic inflammatory skin conditions, the relationship between skin redness, sebum, and mild inflammation on the cheeks of healthy subjects remains elusive.

Aims

We aimed to explore the correlation between cheek redness and sebum and inflammatory cytokines in the stratum corneum (SC) of healthy subjects. We also examined the effects of representative sebum lipids on the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines in cultured keratinocytes.

Patients/Methods

This study included 198 healthy participants. Skin sebum was analyzed using flow injection analysis, and skin redness was assessed using a spectrophotometer. Inflammatory cytokines in tape‐stripped SC were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Cheek redness parameters positively correlated with the amount of skin sebum and the proportion of monounsaturated free fatty acids (C16:1 and C18:1) in the sebum. They also positively correlated with the interleukin (IL)‐36γ/IL‐37 ratio in the SC. Among the representative sebum lipids examined, oleic acid (C18:1, cis‐9) dose‐ and time‐dependently regulated the mRNA expression of IL‐36γ and IL‐37 in cultured keratinocytes, and this effect was attenuated by the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA)‐type glutamate receptor antagonist, MK801.

Conclusions

Skin surface sebum may be related to cheek redness in healthy subjects, and oleic acid‐induced IL‐36γ through NMDA‐type glutamate receptors may be a link between them. Our study provides a possible skincare strategy for mitigating unfavorable increase in skin redness by targeting the facial skin sebum, particularly oleic acid.
Engaging new partners in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine promotion: Considerations for training private practice dental professionals in HPV vaccine promotion
Authors: Askelson Natoshia , Ryan Grace , McKernan Susan , Scherer Aaron , Daly Eliza , Avdic Lejla
Published: March 2023

Objectives

With rates of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination remaining low and rates of oropharyngeal cancer rising, engaging new partners to promote vaccination is necessary. We aimed to identify dental hygienists' and dentists' knowledge about HPV, the HPV vaccine, and preferences for continuing education.

Methods

This mixed‐methods study recruited dental hygienists and dentists working in private practice in Iowa to participate in a mailed cross‐sectional survey (dental hygienists) and qualitative telephone interviews (dental hygienists and dentists). Survey and interview topics included existing knowledge about HPV vaccination, HPV vaccination promotion efforts, barriers to HPV vaccine promotion, and preferences for continuing education (CE).

Results

We received 470 surveys from dental hygienists (response rate = 22.6%) and interviewed 19 dental hygienists and 20 dentists. Vaccine efficacy and safety, along with communication strategies, were key topics of interest for CE. Dental hygienists' most commonly identified barriers were lack of knowledge (67%) and low comfort levels (42%).

Conclusions

Knowledge was identified as a key barrier to providing a strong recommendation for HPV vaccination and convenience was the most important factor to consider for any future CE. Our team is in the process of designing a CE course based on this information to help dental professionals effectively engage in HPV vaccine promotion in their practices.
Cost‐effectiveness and economic investment to eliminate chronic hepatitis C in Mexico
Authors: Mooneyhan Ellen , De la Torre Rosas Alethse , Serrano Daniel Bernal , Gamkrelidze Ivane , Sanchez Maria Jesus , Kershenobich David , Sereno Leandro , Razavi Homie
Published: March 2023

In July 2020, the Mexican Government initiated the National Program for Elimination of Hepatitis C (HCV) under a procurement agreement, securing universal, free access to HCV screening, diagnosis and treatment for 2020–2022. This analysis quantifies the clinical and economic burden of HCV (MXN) under a continuation (or end) to the agreement. A modelling and Delphi approach was used to evaluate the disease burden (2020–2030) and economic impact (2020–2035) of the Historical Base compared to Elimination, assuming the agreement continues (Elimination—Agreement to 2035) or terminates (Elimination—Agreement to 2022). We estimated cumulative costs and the per‐patient treatment expenditure needed to achieve net‐zero cost (the difference in cumulative costs between the scenario and the base). Elimination is defined as a 90% reduction in new infections, 90% diagnosis coverage, 80% treatment coverage and 65% reduction in mortality by 2030. A viraemic prevalence of 0.55% (0.50–0.60) was estimated on 1st January 2021, corresponding to 745,000 (95% CI 677,000–812,000) viraemic infections in Mexico. The Elimination—Agreement to 2035 would achieve net‐zero cost by 2023 and accrue 31.2 billion in cumulative costs. Cumulative costs under the Elimination—Agreement to 2022 are estimated at 74.2 billion. Under Elimination—Agreement to 2022, the per‐patient treatment price must decrease to 11,000 to achieve net‐zero cost by 2035. The Mexican Government could extend the agreement through 2035 or reduce the cost of HCV treatment to 11,000 to achieve HCV elimination at net‐zero cost.
Comparison of acknowledged hepatocellular carcinoma risk scores in high‐risk hepatitis C patients with sustained virological response
Authors: Qiu Lixia , Xu Shanshan , Qiu Yundong , Liu Yali , Zhang Jing
Published: March 2023

Hepatitis C patients with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis are at high risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) even after sustained virological response (SVR). Several HCC risk scores have been developed but which one is most suitable for this population is unclear. In this study, we compared the prediction ability of the aMAP model, THRI model, PAGE‐B model and Models of HCV in a prospective hepatitis C cohort in order to propose better model(s) to clinical practice. Adult hepatitis C patients with baseline advanced fibrosis (141 cases), compensated cirrhosis (330 cases) and decompensated cirrhosis (80 cases) were included and followed up every 6 months for about 7 years or until HCC development. Demographic data, medical history and laboratory results were recorded. HCCs were diagnosed by radiography, AFP or liver histology. The median follow‐up period was 69.93(60.99–74.93) months, during which 53 (9.62%) patients developed HCC. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of aMAP, THRI, PAGE‐B and Models of HCV scores were 0.74, 0.72, 0.70 and 0.63 respectively. The predictive power of the aMAP model score was comparable to that of THRI, PAGE‐Band higher than that of Models of HCV (p < 0.05). Dividing patients into non‐high‐risk and high‐risk groups, the cumulative incidence rates of HCC based on aMAP, THRI, PAGE‐B and Models of HCV was 5.57% vs. 24.17%, 1.10% vs. 13.90%, 5.80% vs. 15.90% and 6.41% vs. 13.81% (all p < 0.05). The AUC of the four models were all below 0.7 in male while all were higher than 0.7 in female. The performance of all the models was not influenced by fibrosis stage. aMAP, THRI model and PAGE‐B model were all performed well while THRI model and PAGE‐B model were easier to calculate. There was no need to select score according to fibrosis stage but should be caution when explain the results in male patients.
Prospective evaluation of the efficacy of inhaled steroids administered via the AeroDawg spacing chamber in management of dogs with chronic cough
Authors: Chan Jennifer C. , Johnson Lynelle R.
Published: March 2023

Background

Glucocorticoids are frequently required for management of cough because of inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and airway collapse (AWC).

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the efficacy and feasibility of inhaled administration of corticosteroids in controlling cough in dogs with noninfectious airway disease.

Animals

Thirty‐six client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Dogs were prospectively recruited for this placebo‐controlled cross‐over study. Inflammatory airway disease was diagnosed through bronchoalveolar lavage cytology. Airway collapse was diagnosed through bronchoscopy, or if dogs were unsuitable anesthetic candidates, by crackles on auscultation, radiographic changes in airway diameter, or fluoroscopy. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive placebo or fluticasone propionate for the first 2 weeks of the trial then crossed over to fluticasone. A quality of life (QOL) survey (best score 0, worst score 85) was completed at 0 and 6 weeks. A visual‐analog cough survey was submitted at 0, 2, 4, and 6 weeks to assess cough, feasibility, and adverse effects of treatment.

Results

For 32 dogs, QOL score at study end (mean 11.3 ± 9.7) was significantly lower (P < .0001) compared to entry (mean 28.1 ± 14.1), with a median change of 69% in QOL score, indicating improved quality of life. Cough frequency, duration, and severity were significantly (P < .0001) decreased at study end. Feasibility of aerosolized delivery improved with continued use (P = .05) with only 1 dog unable to accept inhaled medication.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

This study supports the utility of fluticasone propionate by inhalation in management of cough in dogs with IAD and AWC.
Oral cancers preceded by proliferative verrucous leukoplakia exhibit distinctive molecular features
Authors: Herreros‐Pomares Alejandro , Hervás David , Bagan‐Debon Leticia , Proaño Alex , Garcia Diana , Sandoval Juan , Bagan Jose
Published: March 2023

Objective

Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) has high rates of malignant transformation into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but the clinical and evolutionary pattern of OSCC from PVL (PVL‐OSCC) is more favorable than that of OSCC not preceded by PVL (OSCC). Here, we aimed to explore the pathophysiologic differences between PVL‐OSCC and OSCC through transcriptomic and DNA methylation analyses.

Materials and methods

In this case‐control study, oral biopsies from 8 PVL‐OSCC and 10 OSCC patients were obtained for global sequencing using RNAseq and a genome‐wide DNA methylation analysis via the Infinium EPIC Platform (graphical abstract).

Results

One hundred and thirty‐three differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected, 94 of them upregulated in OSCC. Most of these genes were previously described in cancer and associated with prognosis. The integrative analysis revealed 26 DEGs, corresponding to 37 CpGs, whose promoters were regulated by DNA methylation. Twenty‐nine of the CpGs were found as hypermethylated in PVL‐OSCC. Only 5 of the genes that were aberrantly methylated and differentially expressed were upregulated in PVL‐OSCC patients, whereas 21 were underexpressed.

Conclusions

PVL‐OSCC patients presented lower expression of cancer‐related genes. Hypermethylation of the promoter region of many genes was also noticed, indicating that DNA methylation could be a regulatory mechanism.
Salt Tolerant Gene 1 contributes to salt tolerance by maintaining photosystem II activity in maize
Authors: Mei Xiupeng , Zhao Zikun , Bai Yang , Yang Qiuyue , Gan Yuling , Wang Wenqin , Li Chaofeng , Wang Jiuguang , Cai Yilin
Published: March 2023

Salt stress is a major environmental factor limiting crop growth and productivity. Here, we show that Salt‐Tolerant Gene 1 (ZmSTG1) contributes to salt tolerance by maintaining photosystem activity in maize. ZmSTG1 encodes an endoplasmic reticulum localized protein and retrotransposon insertion in the promoter region causes differential expression levels in maize inbred lines. Overexpression of ZmSTG1 improved plant growth vigor, and knockout of ZmSTG1 weakened plant growth under normal and salt stress conditions. Transcriptome and metabolome analyses indicated that ZmSTG1 might regulate the expression of lipid trafficking‐related genes dependent on the abscisic acid (ABA) signaling pathway, thereby increasing the galactolipids and phospholipid concentrations in the photosynthetic membrane under salt stress. Chlorophyll fluorescence parameters showed that the knockout of ZmSTG1 led to significant impairment of plant photosystem II (PSII) activity under normal and salt stress conditions, whereas overexpression of ZmSTG1 dramatically improved plant PSII activity under salt stress conditions. We also demonstrated that the application of the salt‐tolerant locus could enhance salt tolerance in hybrid maize plants. Taken together, we propose that ZmSTG1 may modulate the lipid composition in the photosynthetic membrane by affecting the expression of lipid trafficking‐related genes to maintain the photosynthetic activity of plants under salt stress.
Forgiveness among Ghanaian children and early adolescents in the context of peer‐to‐peer dyads
Authors: Komesuor Joyce , Nsamenang Sheri A. , Salifu Yendork Joana , Boadu Selina Owusu , Osei‐Tutu Annabella , Worthington Everett L.
Published: March 2023

How children experience forgiveness within peer relationships is unknown among children in West Africa. In this study, we sought to understand the contributing factors and influences of forgiveness among children in Ghana for peer‐to‐peer offenses. We conducted a qualitative study on 25 participants (between the ages of 12 and 15 years) in Accra, Ghana. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify themes from semi‐structured interview transcripts. Unique themes centered around the perception that forgiveness ensures relationship continuation, and that a major source of learning about forgiveness is via a religious institution. Despite a common theme that an offense undermines trust in a relationship, most participants perceived that forgiveness was the preferred option for handling the offense. Results suggest that early adolescents can benefit by learning the skill of forgiveness.
Impact of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction with endobronchial valves on dynamic hyperinflation: Results from the PIERCE study
Authors: Fumat Romane , Dupuis Marion , Mallah Siham , Heluain Valentin , Favard Florent , Simonneau Yannick , Dusselier Matthieu , Barthes Romain , Pontier Sandrine , Collot Samia , Plat Gavin , Egenod Thomas , Guibert Nicolas
Published: March 2023

Background and Objective

Dynamic hyperinflation (DH) is a major marker of exertional dyspnoea in severe emphysema. We hypothesized that bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) using endobronchial valves (EBVs) decreases DH.

Methods

In this prospective bi‐centre study from both Toulouse and Limoges Hospitals, we assessed DH during an incremental cycle ergometry before and 3 months after EBVs treatment. The primary objective was to observe the change in inspiratory capacity (IC) at isotime. Target lobe volume reduction (TLVR) and changes in residual volume (RV), forced expiratory volume in one‐second (FEV1), mMRC, 6 minutes walking distance (6MWD), BODE and other dynamic measures like tele‐expiratory volume (EELV) were also analysed.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients were included, of whom thirty‐eight presented DH. IC and EELV at isotime significantly improved (+214 mL, p = 0.004; −713 mL, p ˂ 0.001, respectively). Mean changes were +177 mL for FEV1 (+19%, p < 0.001), −600 mL for RV (p < 0.0001), +33 m for 6MWD (p < 0.0001), respectively. Patients who responded on RV (>430 mL decrease) and FEV1 (>12% gain) had better improvements compared to non‐responders (+368 mL vs. +2 mL; +398 mL vs. −40 mL IC isotime, respectively). On the opposite, in patients who responded on DH (>200 mL IC isotime increase), changes in TLV (−1216 mL vs. −576 mL), FEV1 (+261 mL vs. +101 mL), FVC (+496 mL vs. +128 mL) and RV (−805 mL vs. −418 mL) were greater compared to non‐responders.

Conclusions

DH decreases after EBVs treatment, and this improvement is correlated with static changes.
Swedish parents' satisfaction and experience of facilitators and barriers with Family Check‐up: A mixed methods study
Authors: Lundgren Julie S. , Ryding Jennie , Ghaderi Ata , Bernhardsson Susanne
Published: March 2023

Family Check‐up (FCU) was introduced in Sweden more than a decade ago. Little is known about what parents experience as FCU's key mechanisms leading to changes in parenting. The aim of this study was to investigate Swedish parents' satisfaction with FCU, and their experiences of facilitators and barriers for making changes in their parenting. A mixed methods approach was employed using a parent satisfaction questionnaire (n = 77) and focus groups (n = 15). General satisfaction with FCU was adequate, with an average rating of 4 on a five‐point scale (range 3.1–4.6). The analysis of quantitative and qualitative data resulted in eight themes representing facilitators and four themes representing barriers, organized into three categories: (1) access and engagement; (2) therapeutic process; and (3) program components. Ease of access to FCU facilitated initial engagement. Individual tailoring and access to FCU during different phases of change facilitated sustained engagement and change. Therapeutic process facilitators were a meaningful, supportive relationship with the provider, psychological benefits for parents and benefits for the whole family. Program components that facilitated change in parenting were new learning of parenting strategies and use of helpful techniques such as videotaping and home practice. Negative experiences with service systems prior to starting FCU, parent psychological barriers, and parent‐provider mismatch were described as potential barriers. Some parents desired other program formats that were not offered, and some felt that new learning was insufficient to improve child behavior. Understanding the parent perspective can contribute to successful future work with implementing FCU.
Identification of the novel HLA‐A*24:589 allele in a Korean deceased donor
Authors: Kim Sohyun , Kwon Eun Kyung , So Eun Hee , Kim Hye‐Jin , Park Borae G.
Published: March 2023

The HLA‐A*24:589 allele differs from A*24:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 145 (CGC > GGC).
The Effect of Television and Electronic Advertisements on The Mental Image of Women Among A Group of Female Media Professionals
Authors: Mahmoud Alia , Ahmad Amer Khaled , Safori Amjad , Eid Yousef Nemir Abu
Published: March 2023

The study aimed to know the effect of television and electronic advertisements broadcast on Arab television screens and on websites on the mental image formed by a group of female media professionals affiliated with the Arab Media Center about women, by answering the sub-questions of the study, the study adopted the descriptive approach through the study tool, which is the questionnaire designed to answer the questions of the study through the respondents, that consisted of 200 female individuals who watch TV advertisements and follow them on the website, and after filling out the questionnaires, analyzing and interpreting them, the following conclusions were reached,the reasons for the respondent’s viewing of advertisements varied, but the largest percentage 94%, was that they watch advertisements involuntarily while watching TV or electronically presented material. This is what is classified as accidental exposure. The percentage of those who believe that the use of women in advertising greatly distorts the image of women is 66.5%. 91% of respondents agreed that women's rights associations and organizations must exert pressure to preserve the image of women and to educate society about their true role through various media., with a rate of 89.5%, the respondents expressed that they were shy when watching an advertisement that aroused in front of family members. 89% of the respondents believe that the ads that appear on social media and YouTube contain in their content greater freedom, and therefore the size of their distance from Arab values is greater, and in the same percentage came the emphasis on the need for some competent authorities to implement training courses for Arab ad directors to comply with our customs and traditions. The percentage of supporters decreased to 30% for the idea that advertising can only be successful by showing the charms of women, the woman's mind by presenting her as a consumer who does not care and only thinks about her elegance and beauty 30%.The study recommended that if a woman must appear in the advertisement, then this appearance should be appropriate to her reality and reflect the real role of women in society. Women's rights associations and organizations must exert pressure to preserve the image of women and educate society about their true role through the various media.
Kriging-Based Surrogate Controller for Robust Control of a Flexible Rotor Supported by Active Magnetic Bearings
Authors: De Oliveira Marcus V. F. , Sicchieri Leonardo C. , De Piemonte Dourado Arinan , Cavallini Aldemir Ap. , Steffen Valder
Published: March 2023

Vibration control in supercritical rotors is a challenging task due to the underlying complex dynamics that high-speed machinery undergoes. When taking into account both structural (e.g., structural integrity and material properties) and operational (e.g., rotational speed variation and environmental effects) uncertainties that can plague such systems, the task of designing and implementing a robust and reliable control system becomes increasingly daunting. In this contribution, a Kriging modeling approach is used to derive a representative surrogate-based controller applied to a flexible rotor supported by active magnetic bearings. The surrogate controller is formulated by considering the relationship between the shaft position and actuator current. This means that after proper training, the surrogate control takes the rotor position (proximity sensor readings) as input, and the output corresponds to the current levels for the actuators to control the system vibration amplitudes. Experimental tests considering a test rig composed of a flexible rotor supported by two active magnetic bearings were used to validate the proposed approach for different operational scenarios, namely, steady-state, run-up, and transient-state. In this case, the surrogate model was trained considering the shaft positions and the corresponding control currents measured with the rotor operating close to its first bending critical speed. The obtained results illustrate how the Kriging-based surrogate controller can reliably maintain acceptable vibration levels, even when exposed to unexpected constant rotation speeds and other operating conditions not manifested in previous sample sets.
The life and death of a subglacial lake in West Antarctica
Authors: Siegfried M.R. , Venturelli R.A. , Patterson M.O. , Arnuk W. , Campbell T.D. , Gustafson C.D. , Michaud A.B. , Galton-Fenzi B.K. , Hausner M.B. , Holzschuh S.N. , Huber B. , Mankoff K.D. , Schroeder D.M. , Summers P.T. , Tyler S. , Carter S.P. , Fricker H.A. , Harwood D.M. , Leventer A. , Rosenheim B.E. , Skidmore M.L. , Priscu J.C. ,   the SALSA Science Team
Published: March 2023

Over the past 50 years, the discovery and initial investigation of subglacial lakes in Antarctica have highlighted the paleoglaciological information that may be recorded in sediments at their beds. In December 2018, we accessed Mercer Subglacial Lake, West Antarctica, and recovered the first in situ subglacial lake-sediment record—120 mm of finely laminated mud. We combined geophysical observations, image analysis, and quantitative stratigraphy techniques to estimate long-term mean lake sedimentation rates (SRs) between 0.49 ± 0.12 mm a–1 and 2.3 ± 0.2 mm a–1, with a most likely SR of 0.68 ± 0.08 mm a–1. These estimates suggest that this lake formed between 53 and 260 a before core recovery (BCR), with a most likely age of 180 ± 20 a BCR—coincident with the stagnation of the nearby Kamb Ice Stream. Our work demonstrates that interconnected subglacial lake systems are fundamentally linked to larger-scale ice dynamics and highlights that subglacial sediment archives contain powerful, century-scale records of ice history and provide a modern process-based analogue for interpreting paleo–subglacial lake facies.
Impact of tumour volume and treatment delay on the outcome after linear accelerator-based fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery of uveal melanoma
Authors: Sreenivasa Shanthala , Wösle Markus , Gager Yann , Vordermark Dirk , Grajewski Luise , Krause Lothar , Ciernik I. Frank
Published: March 2023

Background/aims

Primary radiation therapy is used to treat malignant uveal melanoma (UM). We report our single-centre experience with fractionated radiosurgery (fSRS) with a linear accelerator (LINAC) after specific adaptation for small target volumes with HybridArc.

Methods

From October 2014 to January 2020, 101 patients referred to Dessau City Hospital with unilateral UM underwent fSRS with 50 Gy given in five fractions on five consecutive days. Primary endpoints were local tumour control, globe preservation, metastasis and death. Potential prognostic features were analysed. Kaplan-Meier analysis, Cox proportional hazards model and linear models were used for calculations.

Results

The median baseline tumour diameter was 10.0 mm (range, 3.0–20.0 mm), median tumour thickness 5.0 mm (range, 0.9–15.5 mm) and median gross tumour volume (GTV) 0.4 cm³ (range, 0.2–2.6 cm³). After a median follow-up of 32.0 months (range, 2.5–76.0 months), 7 patients (6.9%) underwent enucleation: 4 (4.0%) due to local recurrence and 3 (3.0%) due to radiation toxicities, and 6 patients (5.9%) revealed tumour persistence with a GTV exceeding 1.0 cm³. Of 20 patients (19.8%) who died, 8 (7.9%) were tumour-related deaths. Twelve patients (11.9%) suffered from distant metastasis. GTV showed an impact on all endpoints, and treatment delay was associated with reduced odds of eye preservation.

Conclusion

LINAC-based fSRS with static conformal beams combined with dynamic conformal arcs and discrete intensity-modulated radiotherapy results in a high tumour control rate. The tumour volume is the most robust physical prognostic marker for local control and disease progression. Avoiding treatment delay improves outcomes.
A mixed-methods study measuring the effectiveness of a menstrual health intervention on menstrual health knowledge, perceptions and practices among young women in Zimbabwe
Authors: Tembo Mandikudza , Weiss Helen A , Larsson Leyla Sophie , Bandason Tsitsi , Redzo Nicol , Dauya Ethel , Nzanza Tafadzwa , Ishumael Pauline , Gweshe Nancy , Ndlovu Precious , Dziva Chikwari Chido , Mavodza Constancia Vimbayi , Renju Jenny , Francis Suzanna C , Ferrand Rashida , Mackworth-Young Constance R S
Published: March 2023

Objectives

While integral to women’s physical and mental well-being, achieving good menstrual health (MH) remains a challenge for many women. This study investigated the effectiveness of a comprehensive MH intervention on menstrual knowledge, perceptions and practices among women aged 16–24 years in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Design

A mixed-methods prospective cohort study with pre-post evaluation of an MH intervention.

Setting

Two intervention clusters in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Participants

Overall, 303 female participants were recruited, of whom 189 (62.4%) were seen at midline (median follow-up 7.0; IQR 5.8–7.7 months) and 184 (60.7%) were seen at endline (median follow-up 12.4; IQR 11.9–13.8 months). Cohort follow-up was greatly affected by COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions.

Intervention

The MH intervention provided MH education and support, analgesics, and a choice of menstrual products in a community-based setting to improve MH outcomes among young women in Zimbabwe.

Primary and secondary outcomes

Effectiveness of a comprehensive MH intervention on improving MH knowledge, perceptions, and practices among young women over time. Quantitative questionnaire data were collected at baseline, midline, and endline. At endline, thematic analysis of four focus group discussions was used to further explore participants’ menstrual product use and experiences of the intervention.

Results

At midline, more participants had correct/positive responses for MH knowledge (adjusted OR (aOR)=12.14; 95% CI: 6.8 to 21.8), perceptions (aOR=2.85; 95% CI: 1.6 to 5.1) and practices for reusable pads (aOR=4.68; 95% CI: 2.3 to 9.6) than at baseline. Results were similar comparing endline with baseline for all MH outcomes. Qualitative findings showed that sociocultural norms, stigma and taboos around menstruation, and environmental factors such as limited access to water, sanitation and hygiene facilities affected the effect of the intervention on MH outcomes.

Conclusions

The intervention improved MH knowledge, perceptions and practices among young women in Zimbabwe, and the comprehensive nature of the intervention was key to this. MH interventions should address interpersonal, environmental and societal factors.

Trial registration number

NCT03719521.