bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progress in physical activity research, policy, and surveillance in Canada: The global observatory for physical activity – GoPA!
Authors: Cathro Ashley , Spence John C , Cameron Christine , Varela Andrea Ramirez , Morales Diana , Kohn Eduardo Ribes , Pratt Michael , Hallal Pedro C
Published: October 2024

Background

The purpose of this paper is to examine the evolution of physical activity research and the comprehensiveness of national physical activity policies and surveillance systems in Canada.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted by the Global Observatory for Physical Activity (GoPA! ) on physical activity and health publications between 1950 and 2019. Findings from Canada were extracted and included in the present analysis. The number of articles published, female researcher involvement in authorship, author institution affiliations, and publication themes were examined. Policies were evaluated by determining if there was a standalone physical activity plan and if national guidelines existed. Surveillance systems were assessed for periodicity, instruments used, and age inclusivity.

Results

Out of 23,000 + publications analyzed worldwide; 1,962 included data collected in Canada. Physical activity research in Canada increased considerably from the 2000s to 2010s (543 articles vs. 1,288 articles), but an apparent stabilization has been observed more recently. Most physical activity publications in Canada focused on surveillance (37%), with fewer articles on policy (8%) and interventions (7%). The proportion of female first authors increased from 38% in the 1980s to 60% in the last decade. However, females remain the minority for senior authors. With respect to policy, “A Common Vision” is Canada’s national plan, which has a singular policy focus on physical activity. National surveillance data is collected regularly with both the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) and the Canadian Community Health Survey. In addition to self-report, the CHMS also collects accelerometer data from participants.

Conclusion

Through collaborative and coordinated action, Canada remains well equipped to tackle physical inactivity. Continued efforts are needed to enhance sustained awareness of existing physical activity promotion resources to increase physical activity.
Elemental analysis and micromorphological patterns of tooth/restoration interface of three ion-releasing class V restorations
Authors: Sarhan Hebatallah , Mehesen Rabab , Hamama Hamdi , Mahmoud Salah Hasab
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To evaluate and compare the ion-releasing capability of three different restorative systems at the restoration/tooth interface elemental analysis using energy-dispersive X-ray technique. Additionally, micromorphological patterns of the restoration/tooth interfaces was investigated.

Materials and methods

Eighteen freshly extracted sound human premolars were collected for the study. The premolars were randomly assigned into 3 groups (n = 6) based on the type of restorative materials used: Giomer (Beautifill II), ion-releasing composite (Activa Presto), and RMGI (Riva Light Cure). Half of the specimens in each group were tested after 24 h (the “immediate group”), while the remaining half were tested after 6 months of storage in deionized water (the “delayed group”). Standardized box-shaped cavities along the cervical area of teeth crowns and restored them with the assigned restorative material following manufacturers’ instructions. The specimens were sectioned buccolingually into 2 halves. One half of each specimen was subjected to elemental analysis using energy-dispersive X-ray technique (EDX), while the remaining half was sputter coated and underwent micromorphological analysis of the restoration/tooth interface using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The collected data from elemental analysis test were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis.

Results

The two-way ANOVA test showed significant differences in both phosphorus and calcium levels among the tested restorative systems (p < 0.05). In the immediate subgroup, RMGI recorded the highest phosphorus level (0.1527), followed by the ion-releasing composite (0.1172), while Giomer exhibited the least levels (0.0326) (p < 0.05). The ion-releasing composite group had the highest calcium level (0.2797), followed by RMGI (0.248), and Giomer (0.2385) respectively (p < 0.05). In the delayed subgroups, Giomer recorded the highest phosphorus level (0.1526), followed by the ion-releasing composite (0.1058), and RMGI group (0.0466) respectively (p < 0.05). RMGI had the highest calcium level (0.2801), followed by the ion-releasing composite (0.2659), and Giomer had the lowest level (0.1792) (p < 0.05). The micromorphological analysis of the restoration/tooth interfaces showed good adaptation between the composite and tooth substrate in different restorative groups.

Conclusions

The ion-releasing capability of the three restorative systems appears to be comparable. The rate of mineral release and diffusion is affected by time and composition.
The Michigan Collaborative for Type 2 Diabetes (MCT2D): Development and implementation of a statewide collaborative quality initiative
Authors: Oshman Lauren , Bhomia Neha , Diez Heidi L. , Gabison Jonathan , Gorin Sherri Sheinfeld , Griauzde Dina H. , Hisamatsu Rina , Heung Michael , Jamison Cornelius D. , Khosrovaneh Katherine , Kim Noa , Lee Joyce M. , Mizokami-Stout Kara , Pop-Busui Rodica , Rau Jacqueline , Reiss Jacob , Saran Rajiv , Young Larrea , Aikens James E. , Richardson Caroline
Published: October 2024

Background

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide and a leading cause of cardiorenal disease and mortality. Only one-third of individuals with T2D receive care as recommended by the American Diabetes Association’s clinical practice guidelines. Effective strategies are needed to accelerate the implementation of guideline concordant T2D care.

Methods

The Michigan Collaborative for Type 2 Diabetes (MCT2D) is a statewide population health collaborative quality initiative (CQI) developed to improve the care of all people with T2D in Michigan. MCT2D has developed a learning health system with physician organizations and their constituent practices to support quality improvement initiatives focused on (1) improving use of guideline-directed pharmacotherapy to improve cardiorenal outcomes, (2) increasing evidence-based use of continuous glucose monitoring, and (3) supporting use of lower carbohydrate eating patterns.

Results

Between 2021 and 2022, MCT2D recruited 28 of the 40 Michigan-based physician organizations participating in Blue Cross’ Physician Group Incentive Program with 336 constituent practices and 1357 physicians in primary care (304), endocrinology (21) and nephrology (11). In January 2022, baseline data included a sample of 96,140 unique individuals with T2D. The baseline HbA1c was ≤ 7.0% for 66.3% of patients (n = 32,787), while 14.9% of patients had a most recent HbA1c ≥ 8.0% (n = 7,393). The most recent body mass index (BMI) was ≥ 30.0 for 64.8% of patients (n = 38,516).

Discussion

MCT2D has organized a statewide collaborative to recruit and engage a diverse and large set of physician organizations and their constituent practices. This is a promising opportunity to accelerate adoption of guideline-concordant care for people with T2D and may be a model for other state or regional collaboratives. Future directions include specific evidence-based interventions targeted at reducing diabetes-linked comorbidities and associated healthcare costs as well as strategies focused on T2D prevention among at-risk populations.
Benefits of emergency department routine blood test performance on patients whose allocated triage category is not time critical: a retrospective study
Authors: Osman Abdi D. , Howell Jocelyn , Yeoh Michael , Wilson Damian , Plummer Virginia , Braitberg George
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Emergency department clinicians, and particularly nurses in triage, frequently perform routine blood tests on patients whose allocated triage category is not time critical (triage categories 3, 4 and 5 of the Australasian Triage Scale). Some observers have questioned the utility of routine blood testing in these acute healthcare settings given the cost and workload implications.

Methods

A quantitative method using retrospective observational design was utilised guided by STROBE checklist. Electronic medical records of patient data collected at a quaternary Australian metropolitan hospital emergency department were reviewed.

Results and discussion

A total of 74,878 adult patients attended the emergency department between 1st January and 31st December 2021 and a sample of 383 were randomly allocated for this study. Of the 383 patients included, 51% were female, age ranges were 18–99 years (mean 51.6). The majority were Australasian Triage scale (ATS) triage category 3 (55%) and 62% had blood tests performed. Blood test performance was found to be associated with advancing age (p < 0.001) but not with department occupancy as determined by the national emergency department overcrowding scale (p = 0.230).

Conclusion

Blood testing in the emergency department in triaged non-time critical patients was found to be frequent thereby affecting nurses’ already stretched time resource. Older patients were found to be more likely to have a blood test. There is a positive correlation between blood test performance and length of stay in the emergency department.
Understanding hospital rehabilitation using electronic health records in patients with and without COVID-19
Authors: Georgiev Konstantin , Doudesis Dimitrios , McPeake Joanne , Mills Nicholas L , Fleuriot Jacques , Shenkin Susan D , Anand Atul
Published: October 2024

Background

Many hospitalised patients require rehabilitation during recovery from acute illness. We use routine data from Electronic Health Records (EHR) to report the quantity and intensity of rehabilitation required to achieve hospital discharge, comparing patients with and without COVID-19.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of consecutive adults in whom COVID-19 testing was undertaken between March 2020 and August 2021 across three acute hospitals in Scotland. We defined rehabilitation contacts (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dietetics and speech and language therapy) from timestamped EHR data and determined contact time from a linked workforce planning dataset. Our aim was to clarify rehabilitation required to achieve hospital discharge and so we excluded patients who died during their admission, and those who did not require rehabilitation (fewer than two specialist contacts). The primary outcome was total rehabilitation time. Secondary outcomes included the number of contacts, admission to first contact, and rehabilitation minutes per day. A multivariate regression analysis for identifying patient characteristics associated with rehabilitation time included age, sex, comorbidities, and socioeconomic status.

Results

We included 11,591 consecutive unique patient admissions (76 [63,85] years old, 56% female), of which 651 (6%) were with COVID-19, and 10,940 (94%) were admissions with negative testing. There were 128,646 rehabilitation contacts. Patients with COVID-19 received more than double the rehabilitation time compared to those without (365 [165, 772] vs 170 [95, 350] mins, p<0.001), and this was delivered over more specialist contacts (12 [6, 25] vs 6 [3, 11], p<0.001). Admission to first rehabilitation contact was later in patients with COVID-19 (3 [1, 5] vs 2 [1, 4] days from admission). Overall, patients with COVID-19 received fewer minutes of rehabilitation per day of admission (14.1 [9.8, 18.7] vs 15.6 [10.6, 21.3], p<0.001). In our regression analyses, older age and COVID-19 were associated with increased rehabilitation time.

Conclusions

Patients with COVID received more rehabilitation contact time than those without COVID, but this was delivered less intensively and was commenced later in an admission. Rehabilitation data derived from the EHR represents a novel measure of delivered hospital care.
Impact of zinc oxide nanoparticles on the behavior and stress indicators of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) exposed to heat stress
Authors: Mahmoud Amr Saber , Sayed Alaa El Din H. , Mahmoud Usama T. , Mohammed Ahmed A. A. , Darwish Madeha H. A.
Published: October 2024

This study was designed to assess the role of nano-zinc oxide in mitigating the deleterious effects of heat stress in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) by evaluating parameters such as aggressive behavior (biting frequency and chasing duration), hematological indicators, and stress-related biochemical markers. A total of 96 catfish were divided into four distinct groups (24 fish/group): The first group (CON) served as the control group, receiving a diet free of nano-zinc oxide. The second group (HS) was exposed to heat stress at 35 °C ± 1 °C. The third group (ZN) was fed a diet containing nano-zinc oxide at 30 mg/kg of the diet, and the fourth group (ZHN) was exposed to heat stress (35 °C ± 1 °C) and fed a diet containing nano-zinc oxide at 30 mg/kg of the diet. The results clarified that the aggressive behavior and cortisol levels were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the HS group compared to the CON and ZHN groups. Additionally, the level of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the HS group compared to the CON and ZHN groups. Meanwhile, a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in red blood cells, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, white blood cells, alkaline phosphatase, and lymphocytes, was observed in fish belonging to the HS group, while the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, neutrophils, and monocytes showed a significant increase (P < 0.05). Supplementation with nano-zinc oxide significantly recovered most hematological and biochemical parameters. In conclusion, nano-zinc oxide contributed significantly to the regulation of the negative impacts of heat stress on fish by reducing aggressive behavior and cortisol levels. Additionally, it improved the levels of AChE and certain hematological and biochemical parameters.
Effects of poultry by-product meal and complete replacement of fish oil with alternative oils on growth performance and gut health of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): a FEEDNETICS™ validation study
Authors: Hasan Imam , Rimoldi Simona , Chiofalo Biagina , Oteri Marianna , Antonini Micaela , Armone Rosangela , Kalemi Violeta , Gasco Laura , Terova Genciana
Published: October 2024

Background

Aquaculture, traditionally a form of biotechnology, has evolved to integrate innovative biotechnological applications, such as advanced feed formulations, aimed at improving the growth performance and health of farmed fish species. In the present study, the effects of feeding rainbow trout with novel feed formulations were investigated. Fish growth, gut and liver morphology, the concentration of fatty acids in the fillet, and volatile fatty acids in the gut were assessed. The study also validated scenarios from in vivo experiments using a nutrient-based model called FEEDNETICS™. This globally used model serves as a tool for data interpretation and decision support in the context of precision fish farming.

Methods

Alternative protein and oil sources, including poultry by-product meal (PBM) and natural algae oil, were explored as sustainable replacements for fishmeal (FM) and fish oil (FO). A 90-day feeding trial was conducted using rainbow trout, comparing two isoproteic, isolipidic and isoenergetic diets. The control diet contained 15% FM, 5% PBM, and 8% FO, while the test diet replaced FM with 15% PBM and 5% feather meal hydrolysate (FMH), and fully substituted FO with VeraMaris® natural algae oil and rapeseed oil.

Results

PBM successfully replaced FM protein without negatively affecting feed intake, growth performance or feed utilization in trout. The combination of PBM and natural algae oil was well tolerated by the trout and showed no negative effects on gut health. A detailed analysis of fatty acids in the fillet revealed that PUFAs of the n3 and n6 series were significantly higher in the PBM group than in the FM group. Values of fatty acid-related health indexes, including atherogenicity index, and thrombogenicity index, confirmed the high nutritional value of trout filet, thus representing a healthy product for human. In addition, the predictions using the FEEDNETICS™ indicated that the tested novel alternative formulations are economically viable. The validation of the model for fish growth resulted in a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 8%.

Conclusions

The FEEDNETICS™ application enhances our ability to optimize feeding strategies and improve production efficiency in the aquaculture industry. VeraMaris® algae oil and PBM could serve as viable and sustainable raw materials for fish feed, promoting environmentally friendly aquaculture practices.
Towards malaria elimination: a case–control study to assess associated factors to malaria relapses in the extra-Amazon Region of Brazil from 2008 to 2019
Authors: Garcia Klauss Kleydmann Sabino , de Deus Henriques Karina Medeiros , da Silva Balieiro Antonio Alcirley , de Pina-Costa Anielle , Siqueira André M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Malaria is an infectious disease caused by the Plasmodium species and is a global burden. When not treated correctly, it can reemerge as a relapse or recrudescence. Malaria relapse cases can contribute to maintaining active transmission chains and can influence the patient to develop severe malaria, potentially leading to hospitalization or death. The objective of this study is to estimate the number of malaria relapse cases in the extra-Amazon region of Brazil and to investigate the associated factors.

Methods

This is a case–control study that analyses malaria infections caused by Plasmodium vivax, as reported in Notifiable Diseases Information System (Sinan) for the Brazilian extra-Amazon region (an area not endemic for the disease) from 2008 to 2019. For the identification of relapse cases, deduplication record linkage processes in R software were used. Malaria relapses were defined as the case group, and new malaria infections were defined as the control group. Logistic regression models were used to assess associated factors.

Results

Of the 711 malaria relapses, 589 (82.8%) were first relapses. Most relapses (71.6%) occurred between 30 and 120 days after the previous infection. Malaria relapses are spread throughout the extra-Amazon region, with a higher concentration near big cities. Driver occupation was found to be a common risk factor compared to other occupations, along with asymptomatic individuals. Other associated factors were: being infected in the Brazilian Amazon region, having follow-ups for malaria relapses, and having parasite density of the previous infection higher than 10,000 parasites per mm3.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that allows malaria health surveillance services to direct their efforts to monitor cases of malaria in the highest risk segments identified in this study, particularly in the period between 30 and 120 days after being infected and treated. Relapses were associated to driver occupation, absence of symptoms, infection in endemic areas of Brazil, being detected through active surveillance or routine follow-up actions, and with parasitaemia greater than 10,000 parasites per mm3 in the previous infection. Improving cases follow-up is essential for preventing relapses.
A computed tomography–based morphometric analysis of thoracic pedicles in a European population
Authors: Zellner Alberto Alfieri , Prangenberg Christian , Roos Jonas , Amar Soufian Ben , Babasiz Tamara , Wahlers Christopher , Eysel Peer , Oppermann Johannes
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The goal of this retrospective study was to perform a CT imaging assessment of thoracic pedicles to provide a representative understanding of pedicle morphology for pedicle-based fixation systems commonly used in orthopedics, trauma and neurosurgery. This study aimed to better understand the morphology of the spine and give spine surgeons a better understanding of thoracic spine anatomy.

Methods

In this study, we retrospectively measured the thoracic spine pedicles of a total of 16 males and 16 females, totaling in 768 individual pedicles. For the measurements, we used standardized planes in computed tomography imaging with a maximum slice thickness of 1 mm.

Results

In brief, we identified significant differences in various measurements of male and female pedicle morphology. The medial cortical wall of the pedicles was significantly thicker than the lateral wall, and, in both sexes, the thoracic vertebral body number four was the vertebra with the least amount of cortical bone in the pedicle.

Conclusions

Surgeons performing operations involving pedicle screw placement should be aware of the sex-specific differences in thoracic spine pedicle morphology noted in this research.
MHConstructor: a high-throughput, haplotype-informed solution to the MHC assembly challenge
Authors: Wade Kristen J. , Suseno Rayo , Kizer Kerry , Williams Jacqueline , Boquett Juliano , Caillier Stacy , Pollock Nicholas R. , Renschen Adam , Santaniello Adam , Oksenberg Jorge R. , Norman Paul J. , Augusto Danillo G. , Hollenbach Jill A.
Published: October 2024

The extremely high levels of genetic polymorphism within the human major histocompatibility complex (MHC) limit the usefulness of reference-based alignment methods for sequence assembly. We incorporate a short-read, de novo assembly algorithm into a workflow for novel application to the MHC. MHConstructor is a containerized pipeline designed for high-throughput, haplotype-informed, reproducible assembly of both whole genome sequencing and target capture short-read data in large, population cohorts. To-date, no other self-contained tool exists for the generation of de novo MHC assemblies from short-read data. MHConstructor facilitates wide-spread access to high-quality, alignment-free MHC sequence analysis.
Spectrophotometric determination of olanzapine, fluoxetine HCL and its impurity using univariate and chemometrics methods reinforced by latin hypercube sampling: Validation and eco-friendliness assessments
Authors: Ghanem Hussein N. , El-Zaher Asmaa A. , Mahmoud Sally T. , Taha Enas A.
Published: October 2024

Novel univariate and chemometrics-aided UV spectrophotometric methods were tailored to undergo the fundamentals of green and white analytical chemistry for the simultaneous estimation of a ternary mixture of olanzapine (OLA), fluoxetine HCL (FLU), and its toxic impurity 4-(Trifluoromethyl) phenol (FMP) without any prior separation. The dual-wavelength ratio spectrum univariate method was used to determine OLA and FLU in the presence of FMP in the range of (4–20) and (5–50) μg/ml, respectively. In compliance with the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) standards, the technique was validated and established Remarkable accuracy (98–102%) and precision (< 2%) with limits of quantification (LOQs) of 0.432 and 2.002 μg/ml, respectively. Partial least squares (PLS) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) are chemometric methodologies that have advantages over the univariate method and use significant innovations employing Latin hypercube sampling (LHS), allowing the generation of a reliable validation set to guarantee the effectiveness and sustainability of these models. The concentration ranges used were (2–20), (2–20), and (5–50) μg/ml; for PLS, the LOQs were 0.602, 0.508, and 1.429 μg/ml, and the root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEPs) were 0.087, 0.048, and 0.159 for OLA, FMP, and FLU, respectively; and for ANNs, the LOQs were 0.551, 0.465, and 0.965 μg/ml, with RMSEPs of 0.056, 0.047, and 0.087 for OLA, FMP, and FLU, respectively. The developed methods yield a greener National Environmental Methods Index (NEMI) with an eco-scale assessment (ESA) score of 90 and a complementary Green Analytical Procedure Index (complex GAPI) in quadrants with an analytical greenness metric (AGREE) score of 0.8. The Red‒Green–Blue 12 algorithm (RGB 12) scored 88.9, outperforming on reported methods and demonstrating widespread practical and environmental approval. Statistical analysis revealed no noteworthy differences (P > 0.05) among the proposed and published techniques. Both pure powders and pharmaceutical capsules were analyzed via these methods.
Treatment switch from multiple daily insulin injections to sulphonylureas in an African young adult diagnosed with HNF1A MODY: a case report
Authors: Katte Jean Claude , Dehayem Mesmin Y. , Colclough Kevin , Sobngwi Eugene
Published: October 2024

Background

Maturity onset diabetes of the young is one of the commonest causes of monogenic diabetes and can easily be mistaken for type 1 diabetes. A diagnosis of maturity onset diabetes of the young can have direct implications for genetic counseling, family screening, and precision diabetes treatment. However, the cost of genetic testing and identifying individuals to test are the main challenges for diagnosis and management in sub-Saharan Africa. We report the very first documented case of HNF1A maturity onset diabetes of the young in the sub-Saharan African region.

Case presentation

A 20-year-old female Black African young adult diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged 14 presented for routine out-patient diabetes consultation. She was on multiple daily insulin injections; total combined dose 0.79 IU/kg/day with an HbA1c of 7.7%. The rest of her laboratory examinations were normal. On extended laboratory analysis, she had good residual insulin secretion with post-meal plasma C-peptide levels at 1150 pmol/L. She tested negative for glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD65), islet antigen-2 (IA-2), and zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8) islet autoantibodies. Targeted next-generation sequencing (t-NGS) for monogenic diabetes was performed using DNA extracted from a buccal sample. She was diagnosed with HNF1A maturity onset diabetes of the young, with the c.607C > T; p.(Arg203Cys) pathogenic variant, which has never been reported in sub-Saharan Africa. Her clinical practitioners provided genetic and therapeutic counseling. Within 10 months following the diagnosis of maturity onset diabetes of the young, she was successfully switched from multiple daily insulin injections to oral antidiabetic tablets (sulphonylurea) while maintaining stable glycemic control (HBA1c of 7.0%) and reducing hypoglycemia. She expressed a huge relief from the daily finger pricks for blood glucose monitoring.

Conclusion

This case reveals that HNF1A maturity onset diabetes of the young (and probably other causes of monogenic diabetes) can present in sub-Saharan Africa. A diagnosis of maturity onset diabetes of the young can have significant life-changing therapeutic implications.
Sex Differences in Human Brain Structure at Birth
Authors: Khan Yumnah T. , Tsompanidis Alex , Radecki Marcin A. , Dorfschmidt Lena ,   APEX Consortium, Adhya Deep , Ayeung Bonnie , Bamford Rosie , Biron-Shental Tal , Burton Graham , Cowell Wendy , Davies Jonathan , Floris Dorothea L. , Franklin Alice , Gabis Lidia , Geschwind Daniel , Greenberg David M. , Gu Yuanjun , Havdahl Alexandra , Heazell Alexander , Holt Rosemary J. , Hurles Matthew , Lancaster Madeline , Lombardo Michael V. , Martin Hilary , Martinez Jose Gonzalez , Mill Jonathan , Musa Mahmoud , Niakan Kathy , Pavlinek Adam , Polit Lucia Dutan , Rowitch David , Sakai Jenifer , Sichlinger Laura , Srivastava Deepak , Uzefovsky Florina , Warrier Varun , Weir Elizabeth M. , Zhang Xinhe , Austin Topun , Suckling John , Allison Carrie , Lai Meng-Chuan , Bethlehem Richard A. I. , Baron-Cohen Simon
Published: October 2024

Background

Sex differences in human brain anatomy have been well-documented, though remain significantly underexplored during early development. The neonatal period is a critical stage for brain development and can provide key insights into the role that prenatal and early postnatal factors play in shaping sex differences in the brain.

Methods

Here, we assessed on-average sex differences in global and regional brain volumes in 514 newborns aged 0–28 days (236 birth-assigned females and 278 birth-assigned males) using data from the developing Human Connectome Project. We also assessed sex-by-age interactions to investigate sex differences in early postnatal brain development.

Results

On average, males had significantly larger intracranial and total brain volumes, even after controlling for birth weight. After controlling for total brain volume, females showed significantly greater total cortical gray matter volumes, whilst males showed greater total white matter volumes. After controlling for total brain volume in regional comparisons, females had significantly increased white matter volumes in the corpus callosum and increased gray matter volumes in the bilateral parahippocampal gyri (posterior parts), left anterior cingulate gyrus, bilateral parietal lobes, and left caudate nucleus. Males had significantly increased gray matter volumes in the right medial and inferior temporal gyrus (posterior part) and right subthalamic nucleus. Effect sizes ranged from small for regional comparisons to large for global comparisons. Significant sex-by-age interactions were noted in the left anterior cingulate gyrus and left superior temporal gyrus (posterior parts).

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that sex differences in brain structure are already present at birth and remain comparatively stable during early postnatal development, highlighting an important role of prenatal factors in shaping sex differences in the brain.
Galectin-3 inhibition reduces fibrotic scarring and promotes functional recovery after spinal cord injury in mice
Authors: Shan Fangli , Ye Jianan , Xu Xinzhong , Liang Chao , Zhao Yuanzhe , Wang Jingwen , Ouyang Fangru , Li Jianjian , Lv Jianwei , Wu Zhonghan , Yao Fei , Jing Juehua , Zheng Meige
Published: October 2024

Background

In the context of spinal cord injury (SCI), infiltrating macrophages assume prominence as the primary inflammatory cells within the lesion core, where the fibrotic scar is predominantly orchestrated by platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRβ+) fibroblasts. Galectin-3, a carbohydrate-binding protein of the lectin family, is notably expressed by infiltrating hematogenous macrophages and mediates cell-cell interactions. Although Galectin-3 has been shown to contribute to the endocytic internalization of PDGFRβ in vitro, its specific role in driving fibrotic scar formation after SCI has not been determined.

Methods

We employed a crush mid-thoracic (T10) SCI mouse model. Galectin-3 inhibition after SCI was achieved through intrathecal injection of the Galectin-3 inhibitor TD139 or in situ injection of lentivirus carrying Galectin-3-shRNA (Lv-shLgals3). A fibrosis-induced mice model was established by in situ injection of platelet-derived growth factor D (PDGFD) or recombinant Galectin-3 (rGalectin-3) into the uninjured spinal cord. Galectin-3 internalization experiments were conducted in PDGFRβ+ fibroblasts cocultured in conditioned medium in vitro.

Results

We identified the spatial and temporal correlation between macrophage-derived Galectin-3 and PDGFRβ in fibroblasts from 3 to 56 days post-injury (dpi). Administration of TD139 via intrathecal injection or in situ injection of Lv-shLgals3 effectively mitigated fibrotic scar formation and extracellular matrix deposition within the injured spinal cord, leading to better neurological outcomes and function recovery after SCI. Furthermore, the fibrosis-inducing effects of exogenous PDGFD in the uninjured spinal cord could be blocked by TD139. In vitro experiments further demonstrated the ability of PDGFRβ+ fibroblasts to internalize Galectin-3, with Galectin-3 inhibition resulting in reduced PDGFRβ expression.

Conclusions

Our finding underscores the pivotal role of macrophage-derived Galectin-3 in modulating the sustained internalized activation of PDGFRβ within fibroblasts, providing a novel mechanistic insight into fibrotic scarring post-SCI.
Social network size and endorsement of political violence in the US
Authors: Schleimer Julia P. , Reeping Paul M. , Robinson Sonia L. , Wintemute Garen J.
Published: October 2024

Background

In recent years, the United States (US) has witnessed a rise in political violence. Prior research has found that an individual’s social network is associated with their likelihood of engaging in various forms of violence, but research on social networks and political violence in the US context is limited. This study examined associations between social network size and endorsement of political violence in a recent nationally representative survey and explored how the relationship varied by use of social media as a major news source, perceptions of the government as an enemy, and membership in a marginalized or privileged racial or ethnic group.

Methods

This was a nationally representative cross-sectional survey study of adults aged 18 and older in the US, administered from May 13-June 2, 2022. The exposure was social network size, defined by the number of strong social connections. We examined three violence-related outcomes: support for non-political violence, support for political violence, and personal willingness to engage in political violence. We estimated prevalence ratios for associations using survey-weighted Poisson regression with robust standard errors, adjusting for hypothesized confounders and including interaction terms to examine effect measure modification.

Results

The sample included 8,620 respondents. Median age was 48.4 years (95% CI = 47.9–48.8), 51.5% were female (95% CI = 50.4–52.7%), and 62.7% self-identified as non-Hispanic White (95% CI = 61.4–65.9%). In adjusted models, those with zero strong connections were more likely than those with 1–4 strong social connections to consider political violence usually/always justified in general (PR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.47–4.01). Those with 50 + strong connections were more likely than those with 1–4 strong social connections to consider political violence usually/always justified in at least one situation (PR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.03–1.37) and were more likely to report being willing to personally use political violence (PR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.13–2.04). Associations varied somewhat by social media use, perceptions of the government as an enemy, and racialized identity.

Conclusions

Individuals who reported very few and very many strong social connections were more likely than others to support political violence or be personally willing to engage in it in one form or another. Findings point toward potential intervention and prevention opportunities.
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of solid renal tumors by high-frame-rate contrast-enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Wu Hailan , Shi Jiayu , Gao Long , Wang Jingling , Yuan WenXin , Zhang WeiPing , Liu Zhixing , Mao Yi
Published: October 2024

Objective

To analyze the characteristics of high-frame-rate contrast-enhanced ultrasound (H-CEUS) in solid renal tumors using qualitative and quantitative methods.

Methods

Seventy-five patients who underwent preoperative conventional ultrasound (US), conventional contrast-enhanced ultrasound (C-CEUS), and H-CEUS examination of renal tumors were retrospectively analyzed, with a total of 89 renal masses. The masses were divided into the benign (30 masses) and malignant groups (59 masses) based on the results of enhanced computer tomography and pathology. The location, diameter, shape, border, calcification, and color doppler blood flow imaging (CDFI) of the lesions were observed by US, and the characteristics of the C-CEUS and H-CEUS images were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed. The χ² test or Fisher’s exact probability method was used to compare the US image characteristics between the benign and malignant groups, and the image characteristics of C-CEUS and H-CEUS between the benign and malignant groups. Moreover, the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the differences in C-CEUS and H-CEUS time-intensity curve (TIC) parameters.

Results

Significant differences in gender, surgical approach, echogenicity, and CDFI were observed between the malignant and benign groups (p = 0.003, < 0.001, < 0.001, = 0003). Qualitative analysis also revealed significant differences in the mode of wash-out and fill-in direction between C-CEUS and H-CEUS in the malignant group (p = 0.041, 0.002). In addition, the homogeneity of enhancement showed significant differences between the two contrast models in the benign group (p = 0.009). Quantitative analysis indicated that the TIC parameters peak intensity (PI), deceleration time (DT) /2, area under the curve (AUC), and mean transition time (MTT) were significantly lower in the H-CEUS model compared to the C-CEUS model in both the benign and malignant groups. (all p < 0.001). In contrast, ascending slope of rise curve (AS) was significantly higher in the H-CEUS model compared to the C-CEUS model in the malignant group (p = 0.048).

Conclusions

In renal tumors, H-CEUS shows clearer internal enhancement of the mass and the changes in the wash-out period. The quantitative TIC parameters PI, DT/2, AUC, and MTT were lower in H-CEUS compared to C-CEUS. Both the quantitative and qualitative analyses indicated that H-CEUS better displays the characteristics of solid renal masses compared with C-CEUS.
Association of Tramadol Versus Codeine Prescriptions with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular diseases among patients with osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of propensity score-matched population-based cohort studies
Authors: Bahardoust Mansour , Mousavi Sepideh , Dehkharghani Maryam Zolfaghari , Arab Mahsa , Rashidi Heeva , Gorgani Habib , Haghmoradi Meisam , Askari Alireza
Published: October 2024

Background

Today, the prescription of tramadol in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) has increased significantly, which can be associated with serious consequences. Contradictory results have been reported regarding the association of tramadol versus codeine with the risk of all-cause mortality (ACM) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the association of tramadol versus codeine with the risk of ACM and CVD in OA patients for the first time. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of sciences, and Google Scholar with specific keywords and mesh terms to find relevant studies until January 2024. Two independent researchers did the process of searching and screening articles. Cochran’s Q and I2 tests evaluated the heterogeneity of the studies. Egger’s test was used to evaluate the existence of publication bias.

Results

Seven population-based cohort studies, matched by the propensity score method, including 1,939,293 participants, were reviewed. The study pooled results did not show a significant association between the prescriptions of tramadol versus codeine with increasing the risk of ACM in OA patients. (Hazard ratio (HR): 1.084, 95% confidence interval (95%) CI: 0.883, 1.286, P: 0.56) In addition, the prescription of tramadol versus codeine was not associated with an increased risk of CVD in OA. (HR: 1.025, 95% CI: 0.89, 1.16, P: 0.68, I2 = 37.8%)

Conclusion

Our systematic review showed that tramadol prescription compared to codeine in OA patients was not associated with an increased risk of ACM and CVD.
Nerve ultrasound in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Abdelnaby Ramy , Shabib Ahmed Samy , El Din Moawad Mostafa Hossam , Salem Talal , Wagih Youssef Awad Merna , Awad Peter Dawoud , Maallem Imene , Atwan Hany , Rabie Salma Adel , Mohamed Khaled Ashraf , Abdelmageed Hossam , Karkour Ali M. , Elsayed Mohamed , Cartwright Michael S.
Published: October 2024

Background/ Aim

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease affecting upper and lower motor neurons, causing progressive atrophy of muscles, hypertonia, and paralysis. This study aimed to evaluate the current evidence and effectiveness of ultrasound in investigating nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) of peripheral nerves, vagus and cervical roots in those with ALS compared with healthy controls and to pool the CSA measurements.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on Cochrane, Clarivate Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Embase for the mesh terms nerve, ultrasonography, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. A quality assessment was performed using the New-Ottawa scale. In addition, a double-arm meta-analysis using Review Manager 5 software version 5.4 was performed.

Results

From the seventeen studies included in this review, the overall mean difference showed that individuals with ALS had a significantly smaller CSA in comparison to healthy controls for median, ulnar, C6 root, and phrenic nerves. However, no significant difference in the CSA was found in radial, vagal, sural, and tibial nerves.

Discussion

This study confirmed results of some of the included studies regards the anatomic sites, where nerve atrophy in ALS could be detected to potentially support the diagnosis of ALS. However, we recommend further large, prospective studies to assess the diagnostic value of these anatomical sites for the diagnosis of ALS.

Conclusions

Our findings confirmed specific anatomic sites to differentiate ALS patients from healthy controls through ultrasound. However, these findings cannot be used to confirm the ALS diagnosis, but rather assist in differentiating it from other diagnoses.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered on July 30th 2024 in PROSPERO (PROSPERO (york.ac.uk)) with ID574702.

Graphical abstract
Translation and validation of Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale - Children and Adolescents (BDEFS-CA) in Azerbaijani
Authors: Aghayeva Kamala
Published: October 2024

Background

Diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders can sometimes be challenging, especially when the clinical presentation is different from what is normally observed. Evaluating executive functions can provide valuable information about children’s and adolescents’ mental states. There is no available executive function rating scale for Azerbaijani. From this perspective, there is great utility in translating and validating the Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale – Children and Adolescents (BDEF-CA). For this research, we decided to use the short form of the BDEF-CA. The rating scale was translated into the Azerbaijani by a bilingual clinical psychologist and by a professional translator. After performing backward translation, the final version was prepared, read and approved by two professors in the psychology department at the university. The study population included 148 parents of children aged 6-17 years (78 males and 70 females).

Results

The findings of this research support the validity and reliability of the Azerbaijani translation of the BDEF-CA short version (Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega coefficient were both greater than 0.9, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) results indicated an adequate fit).

Conclusion

The short version of the Azerbaijani translation of the BDEF-CA could be used for assessing executive functioning deficits in children and adolescents.
Treatment-resistant depression: molecular mechanisms and management
Authors: Kajumba Mayanja M. , Kakooza-Mwesige Angelina , Nakasujja Noeline , Koltai Deborah , Canli Turhan
Published: October 2024

Due to the heterogeneous nature of depression, the underlying etiological mechanisms greatly differ among individuals, and there are no known subtype-specific biomarkers to serve as precise targets for therapeutic efficacy. The extensive research efforts over the past decades have not yielded much success, and the currently used first-line conventional antidepressants are still ineffective for close to 66% of patients. Most clinicians use trial-and-error treatment approaches, which seem beneficial to only a fraction of patients, with some eventually developing treatment resistance. Here, we review evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies on the pathogenesis of depression and antidepressant treatment response. We also discuss the efficacy of the currently used pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, as well as the novel emerging therapies. The review reveals that the underlying mechanisms in the pathogenesis of depression and antidepressant response, are not specific, but rather involve an interplay between various neurotransmitter systems, inflammatory mediators, stress, HPA axis dysregulation, genetics, and other psycho-neurophysiological factors. None of the current depression hypotheses sufficiently accounts for the interactional mechanisms involved in both its etiology and treatment response, which could partly explain the limited success in discovering efficacious antidepressant treatment. Effective management of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) requires targeting several interactional mechanisms, using subtype-specific and/or personalized therapeutic modalities, which could, for example, include multi-target pharmacotherapies in augmentation with psychotherapy and/or other non-pharmacological approaches. Future research guided by interaction mechanisms hypotheses could provide more insights into potential etiologies of TRD, precision biomarker targets, and efficacious therapeutic modalities.
A Multi-institutional Cluster Analysis to Identify Groups of Courses with Exemplary Opportunity Gaps for Undergraduate Students in the Biological Sciences
Authors: Denaro Kameryn , Molinaro Marco , Fiorini Stefano , Matz Rebecca L. , Mead Chris , Motika Meryl , Tarchinski Nita , Valdivia Medinaceli Montserrat , Byrd W. Carson , Koester Benjamin , Rin Lee Hye , McKay Timothy , Sato Brian K
Published: October 2024

We identify three unique clusters of course-sections. The first has large opportunity gaps for students who are from non-dominant socio-demographic groups (females, racial/ethnic minorities, first-generation, and low-income). The second has mixed opportunity gaps. The third cluster has smaller opportunity gaps for students from those groups.
Outcomes of Radiofrequency Ablation for Autonomously Functioning Thyroid Adenomas—Mayo Clinic Experience
Authors: Dhanasekaran Maheswaran , Schmitz John , Castro Maria Regina , Rajwani Aadil , Lee Robert Alan , Hamadi Dana , Morris John C , Callstrom Matthew R , Stan Marius N
Published: October 2024

Background

Autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTNs) constitute 5% to 7% of thyroid nodules and represent the second most common cause of hyperthyroidism following Graves’ disease. Currently, radioactive iodine (RAI) and surgery are the standard treatment options, and both incur a risk of postprocedural hypothyroidism and other surgery and radiation-related complications.

Methods

This work aimed at assessing the efficacy of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as an alternative treatment option for resolving hyperthyroidism and the nodule volume rate reduction (VRR) and its associated adverse events.

Results

A total of 22 patients underwent RFA for a solitary AFTN. Seventy-two percent (n = 16) had subclinical hyperthyroidism, 9% (n = 2) had overt hyperthyroidism, and 18% (n = 4) were biochemically euthyroid on antithyroid medication. Average pretreatment TSH was 0.41 mIU/L (SD = 0.98) and free T4 1.29 ng/dL (SD = 0.33). Following a single RFA session, hyperthyroidism resolved in 90.9% (n = 20) and average VRR (61.13%) was achieved within 3 to 6 months following the ablation. Except for 1 nodule, none of the nodules grew during the follow-up period (16.5 months). Two patients (9%) developed transient tachycardia requiring short-term beta-blocker therapy, and 2 developed mild hypothyroidism requiring levothyroxine therapy. Two patients developed recurrent hyperthyroidism and elected to undergo lobectomy and repeat RFA respectively. No serious adverse effects were noted in this cohort.

Conclusion

RAI and/or surgery represent the standard of care for toxic adenomas, but RFA shows excellent efficacy and safety profile. Therefore, at centers with RFA expertise, it should be considered an alternative treatment strategy, avoiding radiation and surgery-related complications.