bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Nations Patients’ Experience Receiving Care for Cleft Lip and Palate in a Multidisciplinary Clinic Setting
Authors: Shade Haley , Robertson Harrop A. , McPhalen Donald , Roach Pamela
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Our small-scale qualitative study sought to explore the experiences of Indigenous patients receiving care for cleft lip and/or palate at a multidisciplinary clinic. There currently are no published studies that demonstrate the experiences of cleft lip and/or palate patients receiving care in multidisciplinary clinics in Canada. This work is foundational to informing future care in a way that is reflective and cognizant of Indigenous ways of life and lived experiences. Method: Participants were recruited via purposive and snowball sampling through community networks and public advertising in relevant healthcare spaces. Semi-structured interviews were completed; transcribed verbatim and descriptive codes were generated using Indigenist research methodologies through the Blackfoot medicine wheel. Results: Five participants that included patients, parents of patients with cleft lip and/or palate, and Indigenous health liasions were interviewed. Participants indicated a lack of spiritual health, the physical demands of having a cleft lip and/or palate on a patient and their families, the fear and unknown associated with a new cleft lip and/or palate diagnosis, and lack of cultural support, awareness and racism may negatively impact mental health. Conclusion: Indigenous patients must receive cleft lip and/or palate care that is cognizant of both their cultural needs identified in our study but also reflective of the ways in which health may be conceptualized for Indigenous patients. The following models of care suggested in our study must also seek to address historic mandates that include UNDRIP and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action.
Collateral Health Effects of Loneliness Care in Japan
Authors: Yoshida Kazutaka , Honda Kaori , Goto Aya , Kawachi Ichiro
Published: April 2024

Older patients with loneliness are connected to others through their social network ties and are, therefore, more likely to be influenced by their family environment. We define collateral care as involving the family members of patients suffering from loneliness. This research letter determines what physicians and nurses should be aware of in the families of older patients to manage their health care. A cross-sectional study in Japan was conducted on patients aged 65 years or older together with their accompanying family members, aged 18 years or older. Patient loneliness was assessed using the 3-item version of the UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) Loneliness Scale (Japanese). The sample comprised 50 pairs of patients and their families. Family income inadequacy was significantly associated with patient loneliness ( P = .021). Our data reveal the family's financial instability contributes to patients’ loneliness. In addition to traditional forms of direct care, physicians and nurses need to be willing to manage the loneliness of older patients by attempting to provide collateral care, considering family circumstances.
Corruption in the News: Complicity in Canadian Newspaper Claimsmaking, 1980-2023
Authors: Guebert Karl , Bittle Steven , Frauley Jon
Published: April 2024

This paper explores the symbolic dimension of corruption in the print media, or the rhetoric deployed that reproduces a particular discursive order. Employing an abductive materialist analysis and drawing insight from the political-economy and critical anti-corruption(ism) literatures, we examined over 2300 news items on corporate corruption in five prominent Canadian newspapers. In addition to finding differing and contradictory notions of corruption, we identify three phases of (anti)corruption rhetoric that represent notable moments in the struggle over the meaning of corruption and how to curb it. The paper concludes that Canadian newspapers have reproduced the language and claims of powerful voices emanating from the international realm rather than scrutinizing these claims, resulting in an incoherent Canadian popular discourse on corruption.
All-Inside ACL Reconstruction: Short Femoral and Tibial Socket Technique
Authors: Sato Dai , Moulton Samuel G. , Lansdown Drew A. , Benjamin Ma C.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Recently, there has been an increase in interest in all-inside anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR). Regarding graft maturity, graft contact with the bone tunnel is important. All-inside ACLR with short femoral and tibial sockets might allow to increase the contact between the graft and the socket (ie, no interference screw and contact between the graft and bottom of the socket) and can improve graft maturing.

Indications:

All-inside ACLR with short sockets technique is indicated in patients with primary ACL rupture or ACL graft re-rupture.

Technique Description:

The patient was placed in supine position. Following examination under anesthesia, diagnostic arthroscopy was performed to assess for meniscus injuries and chondral defects. The surgical technique required 6 steps: (1) graft preparation (4-strand semitendinosus tendon, graft length was about 45 mm, grafts larger than 8 mm), (2) creating femoral socket (5-10 mm), (3) creating tibial tunnel socket (10-15 mm), (4) passing the graft, (5) tensioning the graft, and (6) graft fixation and skin closure. Patients were partial weightbearing with crutches for 3 weeks and used a hinged knee brace for 6 weeks after surgery. Return to activities was based on functional strength recovery, with a return to running targeted at 4 to 5 months after surgery.

Results:

All-inside ACLR with short sockets technique provides a better chance of return to preinjury level of activity with accompanied patient satisfaction as compared with anteromedial portal technique at 2 years of follow-up. This technique has favorable functional and clinical outcomes with improvement of graft maturing.

Discussion/Conclusion:

In conclusion, we propose that ACLR with short tibial and femoral socket technique is simple and safe with favorable clinical outcomes. This is an advantageous ACLR technique that can preserve the gracilis muscle and reduce muscle strength loss of affected limbs. In addition, the all-inside technique is circumferential filling of the socket with the graft, which might increase bone to graft contact compared with interference screws. Further study is needed to show the better clinical outcome and the earlier graft maturation compared with ordinary ACLR.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Influence of patient sex on pain management practices in Paramedicine: A rapid review
Authors: Dahoud Sooaad , Simpson Paul , Naidoo Navindhra
Published: April 2024

Objective: Pain is a subjective multidimensional experience that impacts an individual's physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Paramedics are regularly contacted to alleviate pain, in both an emergency and non-emergency capacity. Patient presentation, assessment tools, and clinical judgement, together influence paramedic decision making, and therefore pain management practices will inevitably vary. This research aimed to identify the nature and description of sex-specific discrepancies in the literature in relation to paramedic pain management. Methods: Using the Cochrane rapid review methodology, a search of five electronic databases and nine paramedic-specific journals was conducted on 8 November 2023. Articles were included if they: investigated ambulance presentations of pain; analysed pharmacological analgesic management; compared management between the sexes; and reported on either medication type, dosage, time to administration, or pain score. Eligible articles were assessed for risk of bias and subjected to narrative synthesis. Results: A total of 2545 articles were identified during the systematic search, resulting in 13 studies eligible for inclusion. Seven studies indicated a sex disparity in the administration of analgesia after controlling for confounders, with females statistically less likely to receive analgesia, particularly opioids, compared to males. Five studies found that sex had no effect on analgesic administration. One study noted female paramedics provided better analgesia overall, while two studies found paramedic sex had no influence on analgesic decisions. Five studies indicated that the higher the pain score, the greater the likelihood of analgesic administration, with three studies highlighting that the analgesia provided was effective in reducing pain score. Conclusions: While some studies identified no sex-specific differences in relation to paramedic pain management, a greater number of studies indicated a gender-disparity, where females were found to have higher risk of oligo-analgesia. Ideal pain management practices were demonstrated in the literature, with higher pain scores correlating to increased rates of analgesia.
The city on the horizon
Authors: Iveson Kurt
Published: April 2024

In this commentary on Beveridge and Koch's ‘Seeing Democracy Like a City’, I draw their stimulating ideas into dialogue with Sydney's green ban movement – a remarkable enactment of urban democracy from 50 years ago whose legacy remains enshrined in the built fabric and in the political imaginary of my city. This dialogue is used to offer some reflections on elements of their argument concerning the role of institutions in urban democratic theory and practice, the historicity of the association between the urban and democracy, and the place of equality in democratic forms of organisation and self-governance.
Immune status and selection of patients for immunotherapy in myeloma: a proposal
Authors: Dhodapkar Madhav V.
Published: April 2024

Newer immune-based approaches based on recruitment and redirection of endogenous and/or synthetic immunity such as chimeric antigen receptor T cells or bispecific antibodies are transforming the clinical management of multiple myeloma (MM). Contributions of the immune system to the antitumor effects of myeloma therapies are also increasingly appreciated. Clinical malignancy in MM originates in the setting of systemic immune alterations that begin early in myelomagenesis and regional changes in immunity affected by spatial contexture. Preexisting and therapy-induced changes in immune cells correlate with outcomes in patients with MM including after immune therapies. Here, we discuss insights from and limitations of available data about immune status and outcomes after immune therapies in patients with MM. Preexisting variation in systemic and/or regional immunity is emerging as a major determinant of the efficacy of current immune therapies as well as vaccines. However, MM is a multifocal malignancy. As with solid tumors, integrating spatial aspects of the tumor and consideration of immune targets with the biology of immune cells may be critical to optimizing the application of immune therapy, including T-cell redirection, in MM. We propose 5 distinct spatial immune types of MM that may provide an initial framework for the optimal application of specific immune therapies in MM: immune depleted, immune permissive, immune excluded, immune suppressed, and immune resistant. Such considerations may also help optimize rational patient selection for emerging immune therapies to improve outcomes.
CD70-specific CAR NK cells expressing IL-15 for the treatment of CD19-negative B-cell malignancy
Authors: Guo Shanshan , Lei Wen , Jin Xueli , Liu Hui , Wang James Q. , Deng Wenhai , Qian Wenbin
Published: April 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) natural killer (NK) cells can eliminate tumors not only through the ability of the CAR molecule to recognize antigen-expressed cancer cells but also through NK-cell receptors themselves. This overcomes some of the limitations of CAR T cells, paving the way for CAR NK cells for safer and more effective off-the-shelf cellular therapy. In this study, CD70-specific (a pan-target of lymphoma) fourth-generation CAR with 4-1BB costimulatory domain and interleukin-15 (IL-15) was constructed and transduced into cord blood–derived NK cells by Baboon envelope pseudotyped lentiviral vector. CD70-CAR NK cells displayed superior cytotoxic activity in vitro and in vivo against CD19-negative B-cell lymphoma when compared with nontransduced NK cells and CD19-specific CAR NK cells. Importantly, mice that received 2 doses of CD70-CAR NK cells showed effective eradication of tumors, accompanied by increased concentration of plasma IL-15 and enhanced CAR NK cell proliferation and persistence. Our study suggests that repetitive administration-based CAR NK-cell therapy has clinical advantage compared with a single dose of CAR NK cells for the treatment of B-cell lymphoma.
One-pot Eucalyptus globulus wood fractionation in acid-catalyzed mixtures of water and 1-pentanol: an optimization study
Authors: Fernández-Bautista Marcos , Rivas Sandra , Yáñez Remedios , Alonso José Luís , Parajó Juan Carlos
Published: April 2024

Samples of Eucalyptus globulus wood were processed in a reaction media made up of 1-pentanol, water, and diluted acid catalyst. The effects of selected variables (proportion of 1-pentanol in the reaction media, catalyst charge and temperature) on wood solubilization and on the composition of the various phases from treatments (solids containing cellulose, pentanol-rich phase containing depolymerized lignin, and the aqueous phase concentrating the hemicellulose-derived products) were assessed by Response Surface Methodology. Numerical optimization based on the statistical models allowed the identification of the best operational conditions, under which extensive removal of both lignin and hemicelluloses was reached at good selectivity toward cellulose solubilization. The treated solids achieved near stoichiometric conversion upon enzymatic hydrolysis performed under diverse operational conditions, and the lignin structural analysis provided data typical for hardwoods. The experimental results confirmed the potential of 1-pentanol as a solvent for Eucalyptus globulus wood-based biorefineries.
Breathable and wearable graphene/waterborne polyurethane coated regenerated polyethylene terephthalate fabrics for motion sensing and thermal therapy
Authors: Zhang Zhou , Zhang Xuzhen , Huang Wenjian , Zheng Xiong , Ding Bona , Wang Xiuhua
Published: April 2024

The functional utilization of recycled polymers has emerged as a current prominent and timely subject. Flexible wearable devices with high sensitivity to conductivity have garnered significant attention in the fields of human healthcare monitoring and personal heat management. One significant obstacle that needs to be addressed is the simultaneous maintenance of both sensing functionality and durability in composite fabrics. In this paper, a collection of durable, breathable, and flexible smart fabric was produced using the scratch coating method. The fabrics were created by utilizing a regenerated polyethylene terephthalate fabric as a base material, incorporating graphene microsheets (G) as a conductive agent, and applying a waterborne polyurethane layer as a surface protective coating. Furthermore, an investigation was conducted to assess their sensing performance and electrothermal performance. The composite fabric exhibits significant advantages in terms of high conductivity (592 S/m), wide strain range, high sensitivity (Gauge factor = 6.04) and fantabulous dynamic stability (2000 cycles) at a mass ratio of Graphene/WPU loading of 8:2. These sensors were successfully utilized to monitor various degrees of real-time human body movements, ranging from significant deformation bending of elbows to slight deformation swallowing. Furthermore, the sensors also exhibit a significant electric heating effect. Specifically, when a voltage of 10 V is applied, the sensors can reach a steady state temperature of 53.3 °C within a mere 30 s. This discovery holds potential for the development of wearable heaters that can be used for on-demand thermal therapy, functional protective clothing, and medical electric heating wearables.
Haplotype diversity of 17 Y-STR in the Iranian population
Authors: Eskandarion Mohammad Reza , Tabrizi Arash Alipour , Shirkoohi Reza , Raoofian Reza , Naji Masume , Pazhoomand Reza , Salari Hooman , Samadirad Bahram , Sabouri Alireza , Zohour Mostafa Montazer , Namazi Hadi , Farhadi Pegah , Baratieh Zohre , Sayyari Minoo , Dadgarmoghaddam Maliheh , Safdarian Esmat , Nikbakht Afrooz , Golshan Farnaz , Baybordi Fatemeh , Madhaji Elham , ShohodiFar Shadi , Tabasi Mohsen , Mohebbi Ramezan
Published: April 2024

The current study aimed to evaluate Y chromosome haplotypes obtained from 1353 unrelated Iranian males using the AmpFlSTRTM YfilerTM kit; 1353 out of the 1353 identified haplotypes were unique. The haplotype diversity (HD) and discriminating capacity (DC) values were 1.00000 and 0.997, respectively. Analysis of genetic distance was performed using molecular variance (AMOVA) and multidimensional scaling plots (MDS), revealing a statistically significant difference between the study population and previous data reported for other Iranian populations and other neighboring countries. The present findings are likely to be useful for forensic casework analyses and kinship investigations.
DNA methylation regulates the secondary metabolism of saponins to improve the adaptability of Eleutherococcus senticosus during drought stress
Authors: Wang Shuo , Zhao XueLei , Li Chang , Dong Jing , Ma JiaCheng , Long YueHong , Xing ZhaoBin
Published: April 2024

Plant growth and development can be significantly impacted by drought stress. Plants will adjust the synthesis and accumulation of secondary metabolites to improve survival in times of water constraint. Simultaneously, drought stress can lead to modifications in the DNA methylation status of plants, and these modifications can directly impact gene expression and product synthesis by changing the DNA methylation status of functional genes involved in secondary metabolite synthesis. However, further research is needed to fully understand the extent to which DNA methylation modifies the content of secondary metabolites to mediate plants’ responses to drought stress, as well as the underlying mechanisms involved. Our study found that in Eleutherococcus senticosus (E. senticosus), moderate water deprivation significantly decreased DNA methylation levels throughout the genome and at the promoters of EsFPS, EsSS, and EsSE. Transcription factors like EsMYB-r1, previously inhibited by DNA methylation, can re-bind to the EsFPS promotor region following DNA demethylation. This process promotes gene expression and, ultimately, saponin synthesis and accumulation. The increased saponin levels in E. senticosus acted as antioxidants, enhancing the plant’s adaptability to drought stress.
Assessment of the changes in growth, photosynthetic traits and gene expression in Cynodon dactylon against drought stress
Authors: Noor Maryam , Fan Jibiao , Kaleem Muhammad , Akhtar Muhammad Tanveer , Jin Shixuan , Nazir Usman , Zhang Chuan-Jie , Yan Xuebing
Published: April 2024

Drought stress considered a key restrictive factor for a warm-season bermudagrass growth during summers in China. Genotypic variation against drought stress exists among bermudagrass (Cynodon sp.), but the selection of highly drought-tolerant germplasm is important for its growth in limited water regions and for future breeding. Our study aimed to investigate the most tolerant bermudagrass germplasm among thirteen, along latitude and longitudinal gradient under a well-watered and drought stress condition. Current study included high drought-resistant germplasm, “Tianshui” and “Linxiang”, and drought-sensitive cultivars; “Zhengzhou” and “Cixian” under drought treatments along longitude and latitudinal gradients, respectively. Under water deficit conditions, the tolerant genotypes showed over-expression of a dehydrin gene cdDHN4, antioxidant genes Cu/ZnSOD and APX which leads to higher antioxidant activities to scavenge the excessive reactive oxygen species and minimizing the membrane damage. It helps in maintenance of cell membrane permeability and osmotic adjustment by producing organic osmolytes. Proline an osmolyte has the ability to keep osmotic water potential and water use efficiency high via stomatal conductance and maintain transpiration rate. It leads to optimum CO2 assimilation rate, high chlorophyll contents for photosynthesis and elongation of leaf mesophyll, palisade and thick spongy cells. Consequently, it results in elongation of leaf length, stolon and internode length; plant height and deep rooting system. The CdDHN4 gene highly expressed in “Tianshui” and “Youxian”, Cu/ZnSOD gene in “Tianshui” and “Linxiang” and APX gene in “Shanxian” and “Linxiang”. The genotypes “Zhongshan” and “Xiaochang” showed no gene expression under water deficit conditions. Our results indicate that turfgrass show morphological modifications firstly when subjected to drought stress; however the gene expression is directly associated and crucial for drought tolerance in bermudagrass. Hence, current research has provided excellent germplasm of drought tolerant bermudagrass for physiological and molecular study and future breeding.
Mitigating drought stress in wheat plants (Triticum Aestivum L.) through grain priming in aqueous extract of spirulina platensis
Authors: Elnajar Mustafa , Aldesuquy Heshmat , Abdelmoteleb Mohamed , Eltanahy Eladl
Published: April 2024

Background

The study focuses on the global challenge of drought stress, which significantly impedes wheat production, a cornerstone of global food security. Drought stress disrupts cellular and physiological processes in wheat, leading to substantial yield losses, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. The research investigates the use of Spirulina platensis aqueous extract (SPAE) as a biostimulant to enhance the drought resistance of two Egyptian wheat cultivars, Sakha 95 (drought-tolerant) and Shandawel 1 (drought-sensitive). Each cultivar’s grains were divided into four treatments: Cont, DS, SPAE-Cont, and SPAE + DS. Cont and DS grains were presoaked in distilled water for 18 h while SPAE-Cont and SPAE + DS were presoaked in 10% SPAE, and then all treatments were cultivated for 96 days in a semi-field experiment. During the heading stage (45 days: 66 days), two drought treatments, DS and SPAE + DS, were not irrigated. In contrast, the Cont and SPAE-Cont treatments were irrigated during the entire experiment period. At the end of the heading stage, agronomy, pigment fractions, gas exchange, and carbohydrate content parameters of the flag leaf were assessed. Also, at the harvest stage, yield attributes and biochemical aspects of yielded grains (total carbohydrates and proteins) were evaluated.

Results

The study demonstrated that SPAE treatments significantly enhanced the growth vigor, photosynthetic rate, and yield components of both wheat cultivars under standard and drought conditions. Specifically, SPAE treatments increased photosynthetic rate by up to 53.4%, number of spikes by 76.5%, and economic yield by 190% for the control and 153% for the drought-stressed cultivars pre-soaked in SPAE. Leaf agronomy, pigment fractions, gas exchange parameters, and carbohydrate content were positively influenced by SPAE treatments, suggesting their effectiveness in mitigating drought adverse effects, and improving wheat crop performance.

Conclusion

The application of S. platensis aqueous extract appears to ameliorate the adverse effects of drought stress on wheat, enhancing the growth vigor, metabolism, and productivity of the cultivars studied. This indicates the potential of SPAE as an eco-friendly biostimulant for improving crop resilience, nutrition, and yield under various environmental challenges, thus contributing to global food security.
The automatic activity of abdominal muscles during stable and unstable standing postural tasks in older adults with and without low back pain- A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kalantari Mohammad , ShahAli Shabnam , Dadgoo Mehdi , Tabatabaei Abbas
Published: April 2024

Background

The postural control and abdominal muscles’ automatic activity were found to be impaired in subjects with low back pain (LBP) during static activities. However, the studies are predominantly conducted on younger adults and a limited number of studies have evaluated abdominal muscles’ automatic activity during dynamic standing activities in subjects with LBP. The present study investigated the automatic activity of abdominal muscles during stable and unstable standing postural tasks in older adults with and without LBP.

Methods

Twenty subjects with and 20 subjects without LBP were included. The thickness of the transversus abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), and external oblique (EO) muscles was measured during rest (in supine), static, and dynamic standing postural tasks. To estimate automatic muscle activity, each muscle’s thickness during a standing task was normalized to its thickness during the rest. Standing postural tasks were performed using the Biodex Balance System.

Results

The mixed-model analysis of variance revealed that task dynamicity significantly affected thickness change only in the TrA muscle (P = 0.02), but the main effect for the group and the interaction were not significantly different (P > 0.05). There were no significant main effects of the group, task dynamicity, or their interaction for the IO and EO muscles (P > 0.05). During dynamic standing, only the TrA muscle in the control group showed greater thickness changes than during the static standing task (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Standing on a dynamic level increased the automatic activity of the TrA muscle in participants without LBP compared to standing on a static level. Further research is required to investigate the effects of TrA muscle training during standing on dynamic surfaces for the treatment of older adults with LBP.
Immunization with a peptide mimicking lipoteichoic acid induces memory B cells in BALB/c mice
Authors: Yi Xia-Yu , Hou Xiao-Rui , Huang Zhao-Xia , Zhu Ping , Liu Bei-Yi
Published: April 2024

Background

There is an urgent clinical need for developing novel immunoprophylaxis and immunotherapy strategies against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). In our previous work, immunization with a tetra-branched multiple antigenic peptide, named MAP2-3 that mimics lipoteichoic acid, a cell wall component of S. aureus, successfully induced a humoral immune response and protected BALB/c mice against S. aureus systemic infection. In this study, we further investigated whether vaccination with MAP2-3 can elicit immunologic memory.

Methods

BALB/c mice were immunized with MAP2-3 five times. After one month of the last vaccination, mice were challenged with heat-killed S. aureus via intraperitoneal injection. After a 7-day inoculation, the percentage of plasma cells, memory B cells, effector memory T cells, and follicular helper T cells were detected by flow cytometry. The levels of IL-6, IL-21, IL-2, and IFN-γ were measured by real-time PCR and ELISA. Flow cytometry results were compared by using one-way ANOVA or Mann-Whitney test, real-time PCR results were compared by using one-way ANOVA, and ELISA results were compared by using one-way ANOVA or student’s t-test.

Results

The percentage of plasma cells and memory B cells in the spleen and bone marrow from the MAP2-3 immunized mice was significantly higher than that from the control mice. The percentage of effector memory T cells in spleens and lymphoid nodes as well as follicular helper T cells in spleens from the MAP2-3 immunized mice were also higher. Moreover, the levels of IL-6 and IL-21, two critical cytokines for the development of memory B cells, were significantly higher in the isolated splenocytes from immunized mice after lipoteichoic acid stimulation.

Conclusions

Immunization with MAP2-3 can efficiently induce memory B cells and memory T cells.
Detection of circulating tumor DNA in plasma of patients with primary CNS lymphoma by digital droplet PCR
Authors: Zhong Yujie , Tan Geok Wee , Bult Johanna , Veltmaat Nick , Plattel Wouter , Kluiver Joost , Enting Roelien , Diepstra Arjan , van den Berg Anke , Nijland Marcel
Published: April 2024

Background

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) are rare mature B-cell lymphoproliferative diseases characterized by a high incidence of MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 hotspot mutations. Diagnosis of PCNSL can be challenging. The aim of the study was to analyze the detection rate of the MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 mutation in cell free DNA (cfDNA) in plasma of patients with PCNSL.

Methods

We analyzed by digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) to determine presence of the MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 hotspot mutations in cfDNA isolated from plasma of 24 PCNSL patients with active disease. Corresponding tumor samples were available for 14 cases. Based on the false positive rate observed in 8 healthy control samples, a stringent cut-off for the MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 mutation were set at 0.3% and 0.5%, respectively.

Results

MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 mutations were detected in 9/14 (64%) and 2/13 (15%) tumor biopsies, respectively. In cfDNA samples, the MYD88 L265P mutation was detected in 3/24 (12.5%), while the CD79B Y196 mutation was not detected in any of the 23 tested cfDNA samples. Overall, MYD88 L265P and/or CD79B Y196 were detected in cfDNA in 3/24 cases (12.5%). The detection rate of the combined analysis did not improve the single detection rate for either MYD88 L265P or CD79B Y196.

Conclusion

The low detection rate of MYD88 L265P and CD79B Y196 mutations in cfDNA in the plasma of PCNSL patients argues against its use in routine diagnostics. However, detection of MYD88 L265P by ddPCR in cfDNA in the plasma could be considered in challenging cases.
Associations between breakfast skipping and outcomes in neuropsychiatric disorders, cognitive performance, and frailty: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Tan Jinglan , Luo Qinghua
Published: April 2024

Background

Prior studies have identified a correlation between breakfast skipping and a heightened risk of mental health issues. This investigation aimed to employ a Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) approach to explore the potential causal links between breakfast skipping and various psychiatric, neurological disorders, cognitive performance, and frailty.

Methods

Utilizing data from genome-wide association studies within European demographics, this research scrutinized the association between breakfast habits and several neuropsychiatric conditions and physical health outcomes, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Bipolar Disorder (BD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Narcolepsy, Insomnia, cognitive performance, and frailty. In this MR analysis, the Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW) method was primarily utilized for evaluation. Outcomes were reported as Odds Ratios (OR) and regression coefficients (β), and underwent validation through False Discovery Rate (FDR) corrections, thereby offering a rigorous evaluation of the effects of breakfast habits on both mental and physical health dimensions.

Results

Findings demonstrate a significant causal link between skipping breakfast and an increased risk of ADHD (OR = 2.74, 95%CI: 1.54–4.88, PFDR = 0.003) and MDD (OR = 1.7, 95%CI: 1.22–2.37, PFDR = 0.005). Conversely, no substantial causal associations were identified between breakfast skipping and AD, BD, narcolepsy, or insomnia (PFDR > 0.05). Moreover, a notable causal relationship was established between skipping breakfast and a reduction in cognitive performance (β = -0.16, 95%CI: -0.29–0.04, PFDR = 0.024) and an increase in frailty (β = 0.29, 95%CI: 0.12–0.45, PFDR = 0.003).

Conclusion

The MR analysis reveals that skipping breakfast is associated with an increased risk of ADHD, MDD, decreased cognitive performance, and greater frailty, while showing no associations were found with AD, BD, narcolepsy, or insomnia. These findings warrant further investigation into the underlying mechanisms and emphasize the importance of regular breakfast consumption for mental and physical well-being.
Adaptation and application of the Parent Attitudes About Childhood Vaccines survey tool in the Vietnamese language: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Truong Bao Quy Quoc , Ong Ken Ing Cherng , Shibanuma Akira , Kiriya Junko , Jimba Masamine
Published: April 2024

Background

Parental vaccine hesitancy could lead to outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Although parental vaccine hesitancy exists in the Vietnamese community, no research has directly investigated this social phenomenon in Vietnam. Among the validated measures, the 15-item Parent Attitudes About Childhood Vaccines survey tool (PACV) was reliable for predicting vaccine-hesitant parents. However, the PACV was not available in Vietnamese. This study aimed to develop a Vietnamese version of the PACV and examine factors associated with parental vaccine hesitancy in Hue city, Vietnam.

Methods

This study was a cross-sectional study. The English PACV was translated into Vietnamese with content and face validation. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 400 parents at ten commune health centres in Hue city, Vietnam. The parents were asked to answer the questionnaire again after two weeks for the test–retest reliability. The Vietnamese PACV reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega, and the intra-class correlation (ICC) coefficients were used for the test–retest reliability. The construct validity was tested by the hypothesis that parental vaccine hesitancy would be related to the intention of getting the children vaccinated. Exploratory factor analysis was also undertaken to determine the construct validity. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify the factors associated with parental vaccine hesitancy.

Results

The Vietnamese PACV final version (PACV-Viet) contained 14 items. Three hundred and fifteen parents returned completed questionnaires, giving a response rate of 78.8%. The Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega were 0.72 and 0.70, respectively. Out of 315 parents, 84 responses were returned for test–retest reliability. All ICCs were good to excellent, ranging from 0.81 to 0.99. The PACV-Viet was confirmed to have construct validity. Using the PACV-Viet, 8.9% of the parents were found hesitant to childhood vaccination. Being unemployed and having seen the news about adverse events following immunisation were associated with parental vaccine hesitancy, with AOR = 3.2 (95% CI 1.3–8.0) and AOR = 4.5 (95% CI 1.2–16.7), respectively.

Conclusions

The PACV-Viet is a valid and reliable tool. Community outreach is necessary to alleviate parents’ concerns about childhood vaccination.
Survey of lived experiences and challenges in hepatitis B management and treatment
Authors: Freeland Catherine , Adjei Charles , Wallace Jack , Wang Su , Hicks Jessica , Adda Danjuma , James Cary , Cohen Chari
Published: April 2024

Almost 300 million people are living with chronic hepatitis B infection worldwide and most remain undiagnosed and at risk for liver cancer. In 2015 the World Health Organization (WHO) developed guidelines for the prevention, care, and treatment of persons with chronic hepatitis B and in early 2023 began to work on updating these guidelines. In March 2023, a self-administered, anonymous online survey was launched, aiming to identify patient preferences related to the clinical management of hepatitis B including current management, treatment, and care experiences, preferences regarding engagement with providers, and preferences related to simplifying hepatitis B care access. A sample of 560 individuals living with hepatitis B (self-identified as HBsAg positive) from 76 countries completed the survey. Key findings demonstrated that less than half (49%, N = 268) of participants regularly visited a doctor to check the health of their liver (every 6–12 months), with 37% of participants prescribed antiviral medication by a specialist (82%, N = 167) or general practitioner (13%, N = 26). Participants reported not being actively involved in care decision making with their providers (42%, N = 217), with an overwhelming majority wanting to participate in hepatitis B management and treatment choices (85%, N = 435). Participants provided qualitative and quantitative details using open-ended responses within the survey about challenges with medication affordability and receiving care from a knowledgeable provider. Overall findings demonstrated key gaps in care, management, and treatment access related to hepatitis B: identifying these gaps can be used to identify areas for improvement along the care continuum for viral hepatitis. The survey found a need for the comprehensive simplification of clinical management and health care services related to hepatitis B. A thematic analysis of the open-ended survey responses highlighted major overarching themes including the cost and access burdens associated with hepatitis B management and treatment, and challenges in finding knowledgeable providers. Results from this mixed methods survey were used to inform the WHO hepatitis B guidelines update. Efforts should continue to explore public health approaches to address barriers and facilitators to testing, care, and treatment for people with hepatitis B to improve awareness of hepatitis B and access, care, and treatment among patients and providers.
Arthrodesis of distal interphalangeal and thumb interphalangeal joint: a retrospective cohort study of 149 cases
Authors: Silvano Philip , Pantzar-Castilla Evelina , Lundqvist Eva
Published: April 2024

Background

Arthrodesis of finger joints is often the last line of treatment of severe pain due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or mallet finger. At the Department of Orthopedic and Hand Surgery, Örebro University Hospital (ÖUH) in Sweden, the Kirschner-wire technique was standard until 2020, when the headless compression screw technique was introduced as a complement. There is no consensus on which method is superior. The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes and complications associated with distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint and thumb interphalangeal (IP) joint arthrodesis, and to see whether these correlated with patient-dependent and treatment-related factors.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, we evaluated a total of 149 consecutive arthrodeses (118 DIP joint and 31 thumb IP joint) performed between 2012 and 2022. The primary outcome was risk factors for complications after arthrodesis.

Results

Osteoarthritis was the most common indication (56%) for arthrodesis. The majority of the patients were females (74%), and the median age was 62 (range 18–86). The complication frequency was 35%, with infection being the most common (25%). Time to completed follow up was < 12 weeks in the majority of the cases (58%). There were no significant differences in complication rate between the 136 joints operated using Kirschner wire and the 13 joints operated using headless compression screws. There was no significant increased risk of complications among smokers or patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Diabetes and surgeon experience had a significant influence on the risk of complication (p = 0.036 and p = 0.006, respectively).

Conclusions

Osteoarthritis was the most common indication for arthrodesis and postoperative complications occurred at a rate similar to that reported in the existing literature. Diabetes and surgeon experience were identified as factors increasing the risk of postoperative complications in these DIP/thumb IP joint arthrodeses. However, there was no significant difference between the two techniques (Kirschner wire and headless compression screws) regarding complications. Further studies are needed in order to determine the optimal type of operation and choice of implant.

Trial registration

Researchweb CRIS #280,998, 26th of July 2023.
Prediction of false-positive PI-RADS 5 lesions on prostate multiparametric MRI: development and internal validation of a clinical-radiological characteristics based nomogram
Authors: Cheng Yongbing , Fan Bo , Fu Yao , Yin Haoli , Lu Jiaming , Li Danyan , Li Xiaogong , Qiu Xuefeng , Guo Hongqian
Published: April 2024

Background

To develop a risk model including clinical and radiological characteristics to predict false-positive The Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) 5 lesions.

Methods

Data of 612 biopsy-naïve patients who had undergone multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) before prostate biopsy were collected. Clinical variables and radiological variables on mpMRI were adopted. Lesions were divided into the training and validation cohort randomly. Stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis with backward elimination was performed to screen out variables with significant difference. A diagnostic nomogram was developed in the training cohort and further validated in the validation cohort. Calibration curve and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were also performed.

Results

296 PI-RADS 5 lesions in 294 patients were randomly divided into the training and validation cohort (208 : 88). 132 and 56 lesions were confirmed to be clinically significant prostate cancer in the training and validation cohort respectively. The diagnostic nomogram was developed based on prostate specific antigen density, the maximum diameter of lesion, zonality of lesion, apparent diffusion coefficient minimum value and apparent diffusion coefficient minimum value ratio. The C-index of the model was 0.821 in the training cohort and 0.871 in the validation cohort. The calibration curve showed good agreement between the estimation and observation in the two cohorts. When the optimal cutoff values of ROC were 0.288 in the validation cohort, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 90.6%, 67.9%, 61.7%, and 92.7% in the validation cohort, potentially avoiding 9.7% unnecessary prostate biopsies.

Conclusions

We developed and validated a diagnostic nomogram by including 5 factors. False positive PI-RADS 5 lesions could be distinguished from clinically significant ones, thus avoiding unnecessary prostate biopsy.
A rare case of fundal intramural ectopic pregnancy associated with previous B-Lynch sutures
Authors: Xiang Junmiao , Chen Fendang , Cai Zhuhua , Bao Ruru
Published: April 2024

Background

Intramural ectopic pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy that occurs within the myometrium. It is challenging to diagnose it early because of its nonspecific clinical presentation, and there is no consensus or guideline on the optimal management among gynecologists.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 34-year-old woman who developed fundal intramural ectopic pregnancy after a previous caesarean section with B-Lynch suture. The B-Lynch suture was performed at 38 weeks of gestation for postpartum hemorrhage caused by refractory uterine atony about 8 years ago. Since then, the patient had oligomenorrhea. The diagnosis of intramural ectopic pregnancy was not confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound. An exploratory laparoscopy and hysteroscopy was performed to remove the gestational sac without significant bleeding. The surgery was successful and the patient recovered well. The patient was advised to monitor her β-HCG levels regularly until they returned to normal, and a follow-up pelvic ultrasound showed no complications. However, she has not been able to conceive or have an ectopic pregnancy so far.

Conclusions

This case illustrates the difficulty of diagnosing intramural ectopic pregnancy, especially when it is associated with previous uterine surgery and B-Lynch suture. It also demonstrates the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic surgery for treating complete IUP, especially when the gestational sac is located close to the uterine serosa. However, the risk of uterine rupture and hemorrhage should be considered, and the patient should be informed of the possible complications and alternatives. Gynecologists should be familiar with various management strategies and customize the treatment plan according to the patient’s clinical situation and preferences.
Phytochemical characterization, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Terminalia catappa methanol and aqueous extracts
Authors: Mwangi Wangui Clement , Waudo Walyambillah , Shigwenya Madivoli Edwin , Gichuki Joyline
Published: April 2024

Background

A study carried out by World Health Organization revealed that around 80% of individuals globally depends on herbal forms of medication with 40% of pharmaceutical products being sourced from medicinal plants. The study objective was to evaluate the phytochemicals composition, in vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the leaves of Terminalia catappa L. aqueous and methanolic extracts.

Methods

Antimicrobial activity was analyzed by disk diffusion, the minimum inhibitory concentration in-vitro assays with ciprofloxacin as the standard for antibacterial assay while nystatin for antifungal assay. Ferric reducing antioxidant power and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate assays were used for the evaluation of antioxidant properties of the crude extracts while the groups responsible for this activity identified using Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer.

Results

The study found that the leaves of Terminalia catappa contained alkaloids, tannins, steroids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, and coumarins, but terpenoids were absent. Presence of functional groups associated with this class of compounds such as OH vibrational frequencies were observed in IR spectrum of the crude extracts. Methanolic extract from Terminalia catappa exhibited greater antibacterial properties against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, whereas aqueous extract displayed greater antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis for all concentrations tested. The amount of the sample that scavenged 50 percent of DPPH (IC50) was found to be 8.723, 13.42 and 13.04 µg/mL for L-ascorbic acid, Terminalia catappa L. methanolic and aqueous extracts respectively. The antimicrobial and antioxidant activities varied with the extract concentration and solvent used in extractions.

Conclusion

Terminalia catappa L. leaves are prospective for use as a source of therapeutic agents that could lead to the advancement of new antimicrobial and antioxidant products.