bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Health Risk Assessment of Mercury in Fish Samples: Lessons Learned from the Indonesia Peatland River
Authors: Maulia R , Ardiyani V , Widiastuti Erma Nurjanah
Published: December 2024

This study investigates mercury concentrations in fish samples purchased from a traditional market in Palangka Raya City, Indonesia. Mercury was quantified using the AAS technique, which had detection limits of less than 0.00004 mg/kg. The method’s accuracy was tested against a certified reference material of fish protein from the 2016 Indonesian National Standard no.2354.6 (SNI). The species under examination inhabited rivers in the peatland basin (e.i. wild-pangasfish - Pangasius pangasius, hemibragus - Bagrus nemurus, kriptoterus - Cryptopterus palembangensis, mad barb - Leptobarbus hoevenii, flatfish - Chitala lopis, rasbora - Rasbora argyrotaenia, anglefish - Pangasius microneme, wallago - Wallago leeri, prawn - Penaeus monodon); pond fish (e.i. nilefish - Nile tilapia, goldfish - Cyprinus carpio, pangasfish - Pangasius pangasius); sea (e.i. macarel scad - Decapterus, short macarel - Rastrelliger kanagurta, Spanish macarel - Acanthocybium solandri, pomfret - Parastromateus niger; squid - Loligo chinensis; sea - shrimp); swamp (snakehead – Canna marulius, catfish – Clarias batrachus, kissing gourami – Helastoma temminckii). The mercury concentrations, measured in wet sample weight, ranged from 8 to 3500 grams. The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), Maximum Safe Consumption Amount (MSCQ), and Estimated Weekly Intake (EWI) were used to look at the health risk assessment analysis. The results were carefully looked over and discussed. We’ve concluded that eating 50 g of these fish types every day is harmful to people’s health in the study area.
The Triple Layer Business Model Canvas Application in Sustainable Waste Management: A Case Study in Telaga Ngebel, Ponorogo, Indonesia
Authors: Widya A N , Gravitiani E , Sassanti I A
Published: December 2024

The issue of waste in the Telaga Ngebel tourism area remains a complex problem. A waste bank, as a sustainable waste management solution, has the potential to create economic value. This sustainable waste management can be formulated through a business model called the Triple Layer Business Model Canvas (TLBMC). This research aims to identify waste management through a waste bank and describe the business model using the TLBMC concept. The method used is qualitative with a case study approach. The primary data used was obtained through in-depth interviews and analyzed using the TLBMC. The results show that the waste bank program is suitable to be implemented in the Telaga Ngebel water tourism area. A comprehensive framework regarding the activities, resources, and relevant stakeholders needed to run the waste bank program in Telaga Ngebel, Ponorogo, has been obtained.
Community Forestry as Livelihood Assets: Household Perspectives and Sustainable Practices
Authors: Makkarennu  , Irnasari  , Muhammad Alif K. S
Published: December 2024

Community forestry (CF) has provided significant benefits to communities and maintained forest sustainability. This study aims to analyze the level of community dependence on the Community Forestry area and identify livelihood assets based on five capitals: human capital, natural capital, financial capital, physical capital, and social capital, as well as sustainable livelihood strategies. This study uses the method of analyzing the level of dependency using the contribution formula and livelihood analysis. The results showed that the level of community dependence on the CF permit area in a year was 36%, while from outside CF management, it was 64%. This shows that the community manages more commodities from outside the CF area than within the CF area because the market price demand for products from outside the CF area, such as corn and rice, is more stable and higher, which affects their income. In addition, many commodities that have just begun to be developed by the community have not yet provided significant economic benefits. The most influential capital in encouraging people to obtain a decent livelihood is physical capital, which is supported by several categories such as housing conditions, means of transport, access to communication tools, road access, and public assets. Meanwhile, human capital, natural capital, social capital, and financial capital are in the medium category. These four capitals synergize with each other through community skills supported by good cooperation among farmer groups, as well as the availability of natural resources that can be managed to fulfill daily needs. Sustainable livelihood strategies adopted by the community include intensification and extension, diversification, and migration. This research provides an in-depth understanding of the dynamics of community dependence on community forestry and the various livelihood strategies they use to achieve economic and environmental sustainability.
Daily variation of total suspended solid, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus at Cisangkuy River Basin, the Upper Citarum sub-Basin
Authors: Aisyah S , Subehi L , Apip  , Verawati D
Published: December 2024

The Cisangkuy basin is part of the upstream Citarum sub-basin, which flows through the Bandung regency’s. total suspended solid (TSS), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) in the Cisangkuy River are potentially polluted due to human activities like agriculture. This study aims to reveal the daily trend of total suspended solids (TSS), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) at the Cisangkuy River, the upper Citarum in the period of March-May 2023. The study was conducted from March to May 2023 in the Cisangkuy sub-basin. The measured water quality parameters included total suspended solids, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Data were analyzed visually and statistically using MS Excel 2013. From the results of observations at rainfall observation stations, the intensity of rain at the study location tends to be low to moderate (0.5- 50 mm), with the highest intensity occurring in early May. Generally, this pattern is followed by the values from observations of water level TSS concentration at Lamajang and Kamasan tended to follow the rainfall pattern with concentration values that exceeded standard water quality criteria for river. TP concentrations followed the TSS pattern relatively with concentrations exceeding standard water quality criteria during some of the study period. TN concentrations at both study locations showed high value and still met the standard criteria. Water pollution control should be prioritized based on crucial characteristics that contribute significantly to pollution in the Cisangkuy basin.
Bibliometric study of eDNA diatom for environmental change: An initial study for developing eDNA research in North Coast Area of Central Java
Authors: Falah M H A , Soeprobowati T R , Hadiyanto H , Rahim A , Faradisa N Z , Jasir M I
Published: December 2024

The land surface of Central Java’s coastal area can decrease due to rising sea levels and/or land subsidence caused by land conversion. Semarang, the capital city of Central Java, has experienced land subsidence of around 3.96 cm/year. Diatoms are unicellular organisms that can be used as bioindicators of environmental change because their cell walls are silica, protecting them against fossilization. Diatom studies in Indonesia are still limited to morphological and taxonomic studies, so identification methods using DNA still have the opportunity to be developed and applied. However, to start with eDNA diatom, it is necessary to analyze the literature from previous research. Bibliometric analysis is a technique for discovering scientific trends and organizing research. Based on bibliometric analysis, the papers used as sources are journals sourced from Scopus within the last five years (2018-2023). The VOSviewer 1.6.19 and RStudio Biblioshiny (Bibliometrix) v2023.03.1 were used to visualize the analyzed dataset retrieved from the Scopus database. Four hundred ninety-four articles were retrieved from the Scopus database and analyzed based on several parameters, such as title, author, keywords, and the author’s institution. eDNA diatom analysis has become quite an interesting trend because it is considered faster and more accurate. This paper will help authors and researchers in Indonesia develop research on eDNA diatom.
Rnalib: a Python library for custom transcriptomics analyses
Authors: Popitsch Niko , Ameres Stefan L
Published: December 2024

Motivation

The efficient and reproducible analysis of high-throughput sequencing datasets necessitates the development of methodical and robust computational pipelines that integrate established and bespoke bioinformatics analysis tools, often written in high-level programming languages such as Python. Despite the increasing availability of programming libraries for genomics, there is a noticeable lack of tools specifically focused on transcriptomics. Key tasks in this area include the association of gene features (e.g. transcript isoforms, introns or untranslated regions) with relevant subsections of (large) genomics datasets across diverse data formats, as well as efficient querying of these data based on genomic locations and annotation attributes.

Results

To address the needs of transcriptomics data analyses, we developed rnalib, a Python library designed for creating custom bioinformatics analysis methods. Built on existing Python libraries like pysam and pyBigWig, rnalib offers random access support, enabling efficient access to relevant subregions of large, genome-wide datasets. Rnalib extends the filtering and access capabilities of these libraries and includes additional checks to prevent common errors when integrating genomics datasets. The library is centred on an object-oriented Transcriptome class that provides methods for stepwise annotation of gene features with both, local and remote data sources. The rnalib Application Programming Interface cleanly separates immutable genomic locations from associated, mutable data, and offers a wide range of methods for iterating, querying, and exporting collated datasets. Rnalib establishes a fast, readable, reproducible, and robust framework for developing novel transcriptomics data analysis tools and methods.

Availability and implementation

Source code, documentation, and tutorials are available at https://github.com/popitsch/rnalib.
From bugs to brain: unravelling the GABA signalling networks in the brain-gut-microbiome axis
Authors: Belelli Delia , Lambert Jeremy J , Wan Murphy Lam Yim , Monteiro Ana Rita , Nutt David J , Swinny Jerome D
Published: December 2024

Convergent data, across species, paint a compelling picture of the critical role of the gut and its resident microbiota in several brain functions and disorders. The chemicals mediating communication along these sophisticated highways of the brain-gut-microbiome (BGM) axis include both microbiota metabolites and classical neurotransmitters. Amongst the latter, GABA is fundamental to brain function where it mediates the majority of neuronal inhibition. Until recently, GABA’s role and specific molecular targets in the periphery within the BGM axis had received limited attention. Yet, GABA is produced by neuronal and non-neuronal elements of the BGM, and recently GABA-modulating bacteria have been identified as key players in GABAergic gut systems, indicating that GABA-mediated signalling is likely to transcend not only physiological boundaries, but also species.

We review available evidence with a view to better understand how GABA facilitates integration of molecularly and functionally disparate systems to bring about overall homeostasis, and how GABA perturbations within the BGM axis can give rise to multi-system medical disorders, thereby magnifying the disease burden and the challenges for patient care.

Analysis of transcriptomic databases revealed significant overlaps between GABAAR subunits expressed in the human brain and gut. However, in the gut, there are notable expression profiles for a select number of subunits that have received limited attention to date but could be functionally relevant for BGM axis homeostasis.

GABAergic signalling, via different receptor subtypes, directly regulates BGM homeostasis by modulating the excitability of neurons within brain centres responsible for gastrointestinal (GI) function, in a sex-dependent manner, potentially revealing mechanisms underlying the greater prevalence of GI disturbances in females. Apart from such top-down regulation of the BGM axis, a diverse group of cell types, including enteric neurons, glia, enteroendocrine cells, immune cells and bacteria - integrate peripheral GABA signals to influence brain functions and potentially contribute to brain disorders.

We propose several priorities for this field, including the exploitation of available technologies to functionally dissect components of these GABA pathways within the BGM, with a GI and brain-behaviour-disease focus. Furthermore, in silico ligand-receptor docking analyses, using relevant bacterial metabolomic datasets, coupled with advances in knowledge of GABAAR 3D structures, could uncover new ligands with novel therapeutic potential. Finally, targeted design of dietary interventions is imperative to advance their therapeutic potential to support GABA homeostasis across the BGM axis.
Fast and interpretable mortality risk scores for critical care patients
Authors: Zhu Chloe Qinyu , Tian Muhang , Semenova Lesia , Liu Jiachang , Xu Jack , Scarpa Joseph , Rudin Cynthia
Published: December 2024

Objective

Prediction of mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients typically relies on black box models (that are unacceptable for use in hospitals) or hand-tuned interpretable models (that might lead to the loss in performance). We aim to bridge the gap between these 2 categories by building on modern interpretable machine learning (ML) techniques to design interpretable mortality risk scores that are as accurate as black boxes.

Material and Methods

We developed a new algorithm, GroupFasterRisk, which has several important benefits: it uses both hard and soft direct sparsity regularization, it incorporates group sparsity to allow more cohesive models, it allows for monotonicity constraint to include domain knowledge, and it produces many equally good models, which allows domain experts to choose among them. For evaluation, we leveraged the largest existing public ICU monitoring datasets (MIMIC III and eICU).

Results

Models produced by GroupFasterRisk outperformed OASIS and SAPS II scores and performed similarly to APACHE IV/IVa while using at most a third of the parameters. For patients with sepsis/septicemia, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, and acute kidney failure, GroupFasterRisk models outperformed OASIS and SOFA. Finally, different mortality prediction ML approaches performed better based on variables selected by GroupFasterRisk as compared to OASIS variables.

Discussion

Group Faster Risk’s models performed better than risk scores currently used in hospitals, and on par with black box ML models, while being orders of magnitude sparser. Because GroupFasterRisk produces a variety of risk scores, it allows design flexibility—the key enabler of practical model creation.

Conclusion

Group Faster Risk is a fast, accessible, and flexible procedure that allows learning a diverse set of sparse risk scores for mortality prediction.
Association of smartphone overuse and neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Yan-Jyun , Hu Ching-Yuan , Wu Wen-Tien , Lee Ru-Ping , Peng Cheng-Huan , Yao Ting-Kuo , Chang Chia-Ming , Chen Hao-Wen , Yeh Kuang-Ting
Published: December 2024

Background

Smartphone overuse is associated with both psychological and physical health problems, including depression and musculoskeletal disorders. However, the association between smartphone overuse and neck pain remains unclear. We performed a meta-analysis to examine the relation between smartphone overuse and neck pain, and to identify high-risk usage patterns.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched for relevant studies published up to 16 August 2023, using keywords including “smartphone” and “neck pain”. Prospective, retrospective, and case-controlled studies assessing the correlation between smartphone overuse and neck pain were eligible. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Meta-regression and sensitivity analysis using the leave-one-out approach were performed to test the robustness of the results (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024599227).

Results

Seven retrospective studies including 10 715 participants were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The mean age of the participants ranged from 19.9 to 42.9 years. The meta-analysis revealed that compared to participants without smartphone overuse, those who overused a smartphone had a significantly higher risk of neck pain (pooled adjusted odds ratio = 2.34, 95% confidence interval: 1.44–3.82).

Conclusions

These results indicate a significant association between smartphone overuse and increased risk of neck pain. Our findings underscore the necessity of addressing smartphone overuse as a health concern, especially considering its growing prevalence in modern society.
Coupled Phylogenetic and Functional Enrichment in the Tomato Rhizosphere Microbiome
Authors: Talavera-Marcos Silvia , Gallego Ramon , Chaboy-Cansado Ruben , Rastrojo Alberto , Aguirre de Carcer Daniel
Published: December 2024

Plant-microbe interactions occur mainly in the rhizosphere, a hot spot of microbial activity and diversity, and the outcome of these interactions can significantly affect plant productivity. A better understanding of the rhizosphere microbiome is, therefore, required to develop successful knowledge-based microbiome modification strategies that help improve plant productivity. Here, we investigated the community assembly process of the tomato rhizosphere microbiome and its potential composition-function relationships through the lens of a conceptual framework based on the phylogenetically constrained assembly of microbial communities. In this study, we grew tomato plantlets on different soil types with high replication and assessed community composition using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA bacterial marker gene and community function based on the predicted minimal metagenome of the microbial ecosystem. We also conducted additional computer simulations to examine the relationship between phylogenetic clustering and community function. We observed a systematic enrichment in the rhizosphere in terms of phylogeny and predicted functional content and were able to delimit phylogenetic signal in the ecosystem owing to the presence of 12 functionally coherent phylogenetic core groups in all samples. These groups, which accounted for a large fraction of the total community, belonged to the Alpha, Beta, and Gammaproteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacilli classes, and presented exclusive functions related to important ecosystem services. Furthermore, our analyses indicated that these groups accounted for a large proportion of the ecosystem’s predicted minimal metagenome. Overall, our study suggests that community assembly followed coupled phylo-functional selection, phenomenon that likely occurs in other rhizosphere microbiomes.
Returning to Work is Associated with Higher Quality of Life: A LIMB-Q Analysis in Patients with Limb-Threatening Injuries
Authors: Wang Sabrina M. , McKibben Natasha , Azad Chao Long , Njoroge Moreen W. , Kraenzlin Franca , O’Hara Nathan N. , De Jong Tim , Hollenbeck Scott T. , Gage Mark J. , Mundy Lily R.
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVES:

To identify clinical, demographic, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) associated with return to work after lower extremity traumatic injury requiring amputation or limb salvage.

METHODS:

Design: Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Multi-center across 25 countries.

Patient Selection Criteria:

Working patients who sustained lower extremity trauma requiring soft-tissue reconstruction or amputation.

Outcome Measures and Comparisons:

The main outcome measurements were LIMB-Q scores. Regression analyses were performed to evaluate associations between functional and quality of life outcomes by return to work status.

RESULTS:

Responses were received from 258 participants with 66% males (n=173) and a mean age of 40 years old (IQR: 19-78) . Of respondents that worked prior to injury, 67% (n=173) returned to work after a mean 16 months (SD 39). Divorced or widowed status [p=0.006; OR 0.107 (95% CI 0.022-0.531)], bilateral injuries [p=0.004; OR 0.093 (95% CI 0.019-0.471)], and having a manual labor job [p=0.002; OR 0.191 (95% CI 0.027-0.395)] were negatively associated with return to work. Increased time since injury [p=0.036, OR 1.08 (95% 1.02, 1.16)] and higher educational status [p=0.024; OR 5.12 (95% CI 1.24, 21.0)] were positively associated with return to work status. Reconstruction or amputation was not associated with return to work [p=0.087, OR (95% CI 0.190-1.11)]. LIMB-Q Function (p=0.033; 95% CI [-11.3, -0.49]), and LIMB-Q Life Impact (p=0.008; 95% CI [-13.5, -2.01]) scores were significantly increased in patients that returned to work after injury.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients who returned to work after lower extremity injury reported higher levels of function and overall return to normalcy in their lives. Returning to work may improve quality of life in patients following lower extremity trauma.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Prognostic Level III
In vitro erythropoiesis: the emerging potential of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
Authors: Chukwuemeka Chidera G. , Ndubueze Chizaram W. , Kolawole Adeola V. , Joseph Joshua N. , Oladipo Ifeoluwa H. , Ofoezie Ezichi F. , Annor-Yeboah Samuel A. , Bello Abdur-Rahman Eneye , Ganiyu Sodiq O.
Published: December 2024

Due to global blood shortages and restricted donor blood storage, the focus has switched to the in vitro synthesis of red blood cells (RBCs) from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as a potential solution. Many processes are required to synthesize RBCs from iPSCs, including the production of iPSCs from human or animal cells, differentiation of iPSCs into hematopoietic stem cells, culturing, and maturation of the hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) to make functional erythrocytes. Previous investigations on the in vitro production of erythrocytes have shown conflicting results. Some studies have demonstrated substantial yields of functional erythrocytes, whereas others have observed low yields of enucleated cells. Before large-scale in vitro RBC production can be achieved, several challenges which have limited its application in the clinic must be overcome. These issues include optimizing differentiation techniques to manufacture vast amounts of functional RBCs, upscaling the manufacturing process, cost-effectiveness, and assuring the production of RBCs with good manufacturing practices (GMP) before they can be used for therapeutic purposes.
Posttraumatic anxiety-like behaviour in zebrafish is dose-dependently attenuated by the alpha-2A receptor agonist, guanfacine
Authors: van Staden Cailin , Weinshenker David , Finger-Baier Karin , Botha Tarryn L. , Brand Linda , Wolmarans De Wet
Published: December 2024

Traumatic stress exposure increases noradrenaline (NA) release, which contributes to anxiety and impaired risk-appraisal. Guanfacine, a selective alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist, has been used to treat stress-related disorders characterised by impaired prefrontal cortex function. By acting on both presynaptic inhibitory autoreceptors and postsynaptic heteroreceptors, guanfacine attenuates stress reactivity and enhances cognition. However, its effectiveness in treating trauma-related anxiety and risk-taking behaviour remains unclear. Leveraging the advantages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a sensitive and efficient preclinical model which is ideal for stress research, we explored the impact of traumatic stress exposure combined with varying concentrations of guanfacine in adult zebrafish. Zebrafish were evaluated for trauma-related anxiety using both the novel tank test (NTT) and a novel version of the open-field test (nOFT), the latter which was also used to investigate risk-taking behaviour. We found that (1) traumatic stress exposure led to heightened risk-taking behaviour in the nOFT, and (2) low-to-moderate concentrations of guanfacine (3–20 µg/L) attenuated anxiety-like, but not risk-taking behaviour, with the highest concentration (40 µg/L), showing no effect. These results highlight the complex role of NA in modulating dysregulated behaviours during traumatic events and indicate the potential of guanfacine for improving trauma-related anxiety and risk-taking behaviour.
Role of D1- and D2-like dopamine receptors within the CA1 hippocampal region in the stress-induced antinociceptive response in the exposure to acute pain
Authors: Shirmohammadi Diba , Golmohammadi Homayoon , Seyedaghamiri Fatemehsadat , Haghparast Abbas
Published: December 2024

Exposure to stressful conditions such as forced swim stress (FSS) induces antinociception. Previous reports determined that dopamine receptors in the CA1 hippocampal area are important in chronic pain processing. Considering that neural mechanisms behind acute and chronic pain differ significantly, in this study, we have investigated the role of dopamine receptors within the CA1 region in the FSS-induced antinociceptive response in the acute pain induced by the tail-flick test in the rat. The cannula was implanted unilaterally in the CA1 region of the animal brain. Animals received drugs or vehicles 5 min before FSS exposure. SCH23390 as the D1-like dopamine receptor (D1R) antagonist and Sulpiride as the D2-like dopamine receptor (D2R) antagonist were microinjected into the CA1 area at three doses (0.25, 1, and 4 μg/0.5 μl vehicle); the vehicle groups received saline instead of SCH23390 and dimethyl sulfoxide instead of Sulpiride. After exposure to FSS, the tail-flick test was done. The findings of this study revealed that FSS significantly attenuates nociceptive response during the tail-flick test (P < 0.0001). Moreover, intra-CA1 microinjection of SCH23390 and Sulpiride significantly reduces the FSS-induced antinociception in the inducing acute pain (P < 0.0001). The comparison of effective dose of 50% for D1R and D2R antagonists showed that both receptors in the CA1 almost equally reduce the FSS-induced antinociception in the tail-flick test. The result of this study supports the hypothesis, that the dopaminergic system in CA1 is involved in triggering a stress-induced antinociceptive response in acute pain conditions.
Associations of gestation length and offspring birthweight for gestational age with menopausal symptoms and age of natural menopause at midlife among women enrolled in a prebirth longitudinal cohort
Authors: Cohen Nathan J. , Rifas-Shiman Sheryl L. , Soria-Contreras Diana C. , Perng Wei , Hivert Marie-France , Oken Emily , Chavarro Jorge E. , Minguez-Alarcon Lidia
Published: December 2024

Objective

Reproductive history may help identify women at higher risk for experiencing menopausal symptoms. We hypothesized that gestation length and offspring birthweight for gestational age z-scores would be associated with menopausal symptoms and age at natural menopause in midlife among women in a longitudinal prebirth cohort.

Methods

Among 691 women enrolled in pregnancy and followed to midlife, we examined associations of gestation length and offspring birthweight for gestational age z-score at the index pregnancy with total menopausal symptoms assessed with the 11-item Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) using linear regression models, with individual menopausal symptoms using binomial regression models with a log link function, and with age at natural menopause using Cox proportional hazards models. We adjusted all models for age at enrollment, education, parity, annual household income, and prepregnancy body mass index.

Results

Mean (SD) MRS total score was 7.9 (5.8) points at age 52.1 (3.8) years, and mean (SD) age at natural menopause was 50.8 (3.7) years. We observed null associations of gestation length (β = −0.07 points per week, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −0.32 to 0.18) and birthweight for gestational age z-score (β = 0.16 points per z-score, 95% CI = −0.31 to 0.63) with the MRS total score in adjusted models. We also observed null associations of gestation length (adjusted hazards ratio = 0.99 per week, 95% CI = 0.94-1.06) and birthweight for gestational age z-score (adjusted hazards ratio = 1.06 per z-score, 95% CI = 0.94-1.19) with age of onset of natural menopause.

Conclusions

Birth outcomes were not associated with total menopause symptom scores or age at natural menopause.
Chinese guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of human immunodeficiency virus infection/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (2024 edition)
Authors:   Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Professional Group, Society of Infectious Diseases, Chinese Medical Association; Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Published: December 2024

The Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Professional Group of the Society of Infectious Diseases of the Chinese Medical Association formulated the first edition of the Chinese Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) (referred to as the Guidelines) in 2005. The 2024 edition of the Guidelines has been compiled by updating the 2021 fifth edition, incorporating the latest research advancements in antiviral therapy, comprehensive management, opportunistic infections, concurrent tumors, and the prevention and intervention of HIV infection. The new edition also introduces a new section on “Incomplete immune reconstitution”, proposes the concept of “HIV vulnerable populations” for the first time with recommendations for their diagnosis and treatment. This edition of the Guidelines covers 14 sections: epidemiology, pathogenic characteristics, laboratory tests, pathogenesis, clinical presentation and staging, diagnostic criteria, common opportunistic infections, antiretroviral therapy, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome, incomplete immune reconstitution, AIDS-related neoplasms, prevention of mother-to-child transmission and conception in serodiscordant couples, pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis, and whole-course management of HIV infection. This edition of the Guidelines aims to assist clinical physicians in making informed decisions in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of HIV/AIDS and will be periodically revised and updated based on domestic and international research progress.
Periorbital Microcystic Adnexal Carcinoma With Distant Metastases
Authors: Mah Leonard J. , Sandler Gideon , Ngo, Quan , Estall, Vanessa , Vargas, Ana Cristina , Tumuluri, Krishna
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) is a locally aggressive adnexal carcinoma of the head and neck, which has a high tendency for recurrence. MAC rarely has distant metastasis, with only one previously reported case originating from the periorbital region. We present a patient with periorbital MAC with distant metastasis and a review of all reported patients with metastatic disease.

Method:

We present a patient with the youngest reported periorbital MAC with metastases along with a major review of metastatic MAC using PubMed/MEDLINE databases. Case reports or case series that described a case of MAC with metastases were included.

Results:

A 37-year-old man with left periorbital MAC had local resection and subsequent exenteration for orbital recurrence. Distal metastases were noted between 8 and 13 years postexenteration in the left parotid gland, left sartorius muscle, and right brachialis and trapezius muscles. There are 7 patients, including our patient, with distant metastasis in MAC, of which 2 were of periorbital origin. The median age was 62 with a male predominance (n = 5/7). Our patient is the youngest reported patient with metastatic MAC. The median time to metastasis was 8 years. Strategies to control disease included radiotherapy (n = 4/7) and chemotherapy (n = 4/7). Six of 7 cases passed away with disease or have ongoing disease.

Conclusion:

Periorbital MAC is a locally aggressive disease with potential for metastatic spread and all patients need long-term surveillance for local recurrence and distant metastases.
Pediatric Orbital High-Grade B-Cell Lymphoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nguyen Kimberly K. , Regner Michael F. , Olson Susan B. , Ng John D.
Published: December 2024

Ocular involvement of lymphoma may present as a primary orbital or intraocular lymphoma or as a manifestation of metastatic disease. Involvement of various ocular structures may be difficult to diagnose due to its rarity and nonspecific clinical presentation. Primary high-grade B-cell lymphoma with MYC and BCL2 rearrangements of the orbit has rarely been reported in the adult population and has not previously been reported in the pediatric population. Herein we present a unique case of orbital high-grade B-cell lymphoma in a pediatric patient, initially diagnosed as preseptal cellulitis. Careful observation and escalation of care ultimately led to the accurate diagnosis and complete remission of the disease.
Corneal endothelial cell loss with different techniques of nucleus delivery in Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery- Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mol Fincy , Nagarajan Swathi , AR Rajalakshmi , Govindasamy Ezhumalai
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

To compare corneal endothelial loss in manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS) following three different techniques of nucleus delivery (Viscoexpression, Irrigating Vectis, Phacosandwich).

Setting:

Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Puducherry, India

Design:

Prospective, single blinded, randomized controlled trial

Methods:

Willing patients > 40years of age with immature cataract and posted for MSICS were recruited for the study. Those with systemic or ocular comorbidities which may influence corneal endothelium, dilated pupil size of <5mm, intraoperative complications and postoperative corneal haze were excluded. They were randomly divided to one of the three groups (Group 1- Viscoexpression, Group 2- Irrigating Vectis, Group 3- Phacosandwich) for nucleus delivery. Visual acuity and corneal endothelial parameters were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively at 6-8weeks.

Results:

A total of 90 patients with mean age of 59.13 ± 9.42 years (range 40-82years) were studied with 30 patients in each group. Following MSICS there was a 12.12% (p=0.001) endothelial cell loss. It was 10.81% in viscoexpression group, 11.3% in irrigating vectis group and 14.28% in phacosandwich group. Post hoc analysis with Dunn Bon ferroni test showed endothelial cell loss following viscoexpression and irrigating vectis methods of nucleus delivery were comparable (p=0.096) and significantly lesser (p<0.001) than in Phacosandwich group.

Conclusion:

There was significant endothelial cell loss following MSICS. Nucleus delivery by viscoexpression and irrigating vectis had similar endothelial cell loss while it was greater with phacosandwich technique.
Factors Associated With Self-management in Adults With Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Heo Seongkum , Barbé Tammy , Kim JinShil
Published: December 2024

Background

Poor self-management in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes (T2DM) leads to increased diabetes complications. Factors associated with self-management in T1DM and T2DM may differ due to the different methods for controlling blood glucose.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine the associations of modifiable physical, cognitive, and psychosocial factors and the nonmodifiable factor of age with overall self-management, diet, exercise, blood glucose testing (BGT), foot care, and smoking in adults with T1DM or T2DM.

Methods

In this cross-sectional, correlational study, data were collected from adults with T1DM (n = 64; mean age, 51.2 years) or T2DM (n = 84; mean age, 62.5 years) using REDCap in 2023 and were analyzed using multiple regression analyses.

Results

Older age, lower body mass index, and stronger knowledge in T1DM (F
10,53 = 2.290, P = .026, R
2 = 0.302), and lower body mass index and higher levels of self-efficacy in T2DM were associated with better overall self-management (F
10,73 = 3.219, P = .002, R
2 = 0.306). Different combinations of age, body mass index, knowledge, resilience, and self-esteem were associated with different components of self-management, including diet, BGT, and foot care, in T1DM, whereas different combinations of body mass index, knowledge, self-efficacy, and depressive symptoms were associated with different components of self-management, including diet, exercise, and BGT, in T2DM.

Conclusions

Factors associated with self-management differed based on types of diabetes and components of self-management. Clinicians need to consider the 2 types of diabetes and distinct factors associated with each component of self-management to improve it.
The Leaky Preexposure Prophylaxis Cascade: Barriers and Facilitators to Preexposure Prophylaxis Uptake and Adherence Among Youth Experiencing Homelessness in the US South, a Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Santa Maria Diane , Paul Mary , Lightfoot Marguerita , Nyamathi Adeline , Quadri Yasmeen , Padhye Nikhil , Ocampo Eduardo , Babayev Roman , Ramos Melanie Watt , Malone-Thomas Sheryl L. , White Margaret , Carrillo Alejandro , Jones Jennifer Torres
Published: December 2024

Adherence to preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is lower among high-risk populations, including youth experiencing homelessness (YEH). This study determined the feasibility of urine PrEP adherence biomarker testing and examined the barriers and facilitators to PrEP uptake and adherence among YEH. YEH were recruited from a randomized control trial conducted in a large urban setting in southern United States. Interviews (N = 40) were conducted to identify barriers and facilitators to PrEP uptake and adherence. PrEP urine-based adherence testing feasibility was conducted among those who started on PrEP. Twenty-two participants obtained a prescription and 15 youth completed at least one adherence test. Facilitators and barriers were categorized as individual, interpersonal and community, and structural among PrEP starters and nonstarters. PrEP uptake and adherence were low for eligible YEH. Enriching the understanding of the challenges and facilitators experienced with accessing PrEP for YEH can improve engagement in HIV prevention among YEH.
Fannyhessea vaginae and clearance of Lactobacillus iners are associated with incident non-chlamydial non-Mycoplasma genitalium urethritis in men who have sex with women
Authors: Drover Caitlin M. , Srinivasan Sujatha , Tapia Kenneth A. , Munch Matthew , Rowlinson Emily , Chambers Laura C. , Fiedler Tina L. , Lowens M. Sylvan , Khosropour Christine M. , Manhart Lisa E , Fredricks David N.
Published: December 2024

Background

The etiology of nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) is incompletely understood. We sought to determine if genitourinary bacterial diversity or specific taxa were associated with incident NGU.

Methods

From August 2014-July 2018, men who have sex with women attending a sexual health clinic were clinically evaluated, including Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) testing, at enrollment and six monthly visits. New cases of NGU (≥5 PMNs/HPF in urethral exudates plus either symptoms or visible discharge) and their visit preceding NGU diagnosis were matched 1:1 to two sequential visits without NGU (controls). We determined associations with incident NGU and applied broad-range 16S rRNA gene polymerase chain reaction and sequencing to urine samples from each visit. We used conditional logistic regression to evaluate the association of Shannon Diversity Index (SDI), species richness, Haemophilus influenzae, Fannyhessea vaginae, Lactobacillus iners, and Streptococcus mitis group with incident non-CT-non-MG-NGU (NCNM-NGU).

Results

Of 62 matched case-control pairs, median age was 32. Higher SDI the previous month was associated with higher odds of incident NCNM-NGU (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.8 per unit increase; 95% CI = 1.03-7.47), as was F. vaginae at NGU diagnosis (aOR = 5.1; 95% CI = 1.28-20.15), F. vaginae acquisition (aOR = 13.8; 95% CI = 1.96-97.33) and consistent carriage of F. vaginae (aOR = 16.1; 95% CI = 1.66-156.29). Odds of NCNM-NGU were higher when L. iners cleared between visits (aOR = 18.0; 95% CI = 1.08-299.24). Neither H. influenzae nor S. mitis group were associated with incident NCNM-NGU.

Conclusions

F. vaginae acquisition/detection and L. iners clearance were associated with urethritis. This merits investigation in larger longitudinal studies using species-specific detection methods.
An evaluation of syphilis partner services among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men with early syphilis in King County, WA
Authors: Kerani Roxanne P. , Chang Alene , Berzkalns Anna , Moreno Juan Palacios , Ramchandani Meena , Golden Matthew R.
Published: December 2024

Background

Partner services (PS) have been integral to syphilis control in the U.S. since the early 20th century but have not been evaluated in a controlled study.

Methods

We compared PS outcomes among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) diagnosed with syphilis from May 2020-June 2021 for whom health department staff initiated PS efforts (PS group) and a randomly selected control group for whom no PS efforts were initiated. We interviewed participants about partner outcomes and used chi-square tests and Poisson regression to test for differences in outcomes between groups.

Results

We attempted to contact 350 GBMSM and offered participation to 184 men, of whom 92 (51%) participated, including 41 men in the PS group and 51 controls. The percentage of participants who reported notifying >1 sex partner after diagnosis was similar in the PS and control groups (83% vs. 80%, p = 0.80). Mean number of partners notified or tested did not differ between PS and control groups (notified mean[range]: 2.5 [0-10] vs 3.3 [0-20], p = 0.16; tested mean[range]: 1.2 [0-8] vs. 1 [0-10], p = 0.66); multivariate results were similar. Among those contacted for PS, approximately half (48%) reported PS staff helped them with medical care for syphilis, and 31% said that PS staff connected them to PrEP.

Conclusions

This small, controlled evaluation suggests that syphilis PS may have no impact on partner treatment among GBMSM, though most men support the intervention. A randomized trial is needed to definitively define the contemporary effectiveness of syphilis PS among GBMSM.
Cold Storage Disrupts the Proteome and Phosphoproteome Landscape in Rat Kidney Transplants
Authors: Sharma Amod , Jun Se-Ran , Bhattarai Dinesh , Panday Sudip , Venugopal Gopinath , Panawan Orasa , Washam Charity , Mackintosh Samuel , Byrum Stephanie , Udaondo Zulema , Arthur John M. , MacMillan-Crow Lee Ann , Parajuli Nirmala
Published: December 2024

Background.

Prolonged cold storage (CS) of kidneys results in poor long-term outcomes after transplantation (Tx). We reported previously that CS of rat kidneys for 18 h before transplant impaired proteasome function, disrupted protein homeostasis, and reduced graft function. The goal of the present study was to identify the renal proteins, including phosphoproteins, that are dysregulated by this CS injury.

Methods.

Isolated donor Lewis rat kidneys were subject to 18 h CS and transplanted into recipient Lewis rats (CS + Tx). Autotransplantation (transplant with 0 h CS) or Sham (right nephrectomy) surgeries served as controls. The proteome of kidney homogenates was analyzed with tandem mass-tag mass spectrometry to identify CS-induced abnormalities in kidney grafts.

Results.

CS injury disrupted the renal proteome/phosphoproteome landscape in kidney grafts and dysregulated numerous signaling pathways. We identified 3217 phosphopeptides (with 1398 novel phosphosites) that were significantly dysregulated in a CS-specific manner. In particular, proteins and pathways such as complement system and mitogen-activated protein kinases, including p38MAPK, were upregulated, whereas antioxidant/metabolic pathways, such as glutathione, were suppressed in CS + Tx groups compared with autotransplantation and sham controls.

Conclusions.

This study provides deeper insight into the disruption of the renal proteome/phosphoproteome caused by CS injury and provides a novel set of pathways and molecules, including p38MAPK, that can be investigated to delineate their specific role in renal transplant outcomes, ultimately improving outcomes for patients with end-stage kidney disease.
Visual Functions in Patients With Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)
Authors: Francomme Robin , Lenoble Quentin , Smirnov Vasily , Boucart Muriel
Published: December 2024

Background:

Most of the data on visual functions in Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is based on patient questionnaires. Our study assessed the impact of LHON on visual function by testing facial recognition and execution of purposeful actions.

Methods:

Twelve participants with LHON with central scotoma ranging from 5° to 20° and 12 unaffected age-matched controls were involved in our study. In the face recognition test, participants were asked to recognize the sex and the facial expression of photographs of faces increasing in size to simulate approaching faces. In the purposeful action test, they were asked to manipulate real objects while their eye movements were recorded.

Results:

Although most patients were able to recognize the correct sex of a face at a size corresponding to a 1-m viewing distance, recognition of facial expressions was severely impaired. Patients were slower than control subjects in executing purposeful tasks. A dynamic strategy to sample information needed for the execution of a task was documented in a longer scanpath and in higher frequency of saccades and fixation eye movements in patients than in control subjects.

Conclusions:

Face perception is strongly impaired in patients with LHON. In addition, although the selection and manipulation of real objects to execute a task are slowed, they can be performed efficiently using peripheral vision.