bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A phenomenological study on East and Southeast Asian dental educators: perceived importance, challenges, and strategies in teaching dental materials science
Authors: Lin Galvin Sim Siang , Tan Wen Wu , Foong Chan Choong
Published: August 2023

Background

Effective teaching of dental materials science is crucial for dental students to develop a comprehensive understanding of materials used in clinical practice. However, literature on educators’ views on teaching this subject is still scarce. This qualitative study aimed to explore the lived experiences of dental educators in teaching dental materials science subjects, thereby addressing potential gaps and enhancing teaching practices.

Methods

Thirteen dental educators from East and Southeast Asian countries (Malaysia, China, Indonesia, Thailand, South Korea, and Japan) participated in the present study. The present study adopted a transcendental phenomenological approach. One-to-one semi-structured online interviews were conducted. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns in the educators’ experiences.

Results

Three themes emerged from the present study. First, perceptions of the importance of dental materials science, highlighting its relevance in clinical practice, patient care, and lifelong learning. Second, the challenges faced in teaching dental materials science include limited instructional time, complex content, and insufficient resources. Third, specific strategies, such as applying interactive teaching methods, integrating clinical scenarios, and promoting critical thinking skills have been suggested to enhance teaching and learning.

Conclusion

Understanding dental educators’ experiences can improve dental materials science education, curriculum development, teaching methods, and faculty training programmes, ultimately enhancing the knowledge and skills of dental students in this field.
Psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the functional assessment of chronic illness therapy–fatigue (FACIT–F) among patients with breast cancer
Authors: Cai Tingting , Chen Jialin , Ni Feixia , Zhu Rui , Wu Fulei , Huang Qingmei , Zhou Tingting , Yang Yang , Yuan Changrong
Published: August 2023

Background

Fatigue is the most frequent and distressing symptom affecting the physical, cognitive, and affective domains of breast cancer patients. The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Fatigue (FACIT–F) has been widely used in patients with chronic diseases and has shown satisfactory reliability and validity. This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the FACIT–F among Chinese patients with breast cancer.

Methods

Using a convenience sampling method, a cross–sectional survey (January 2020 and September 2022) was used with patients recruited from two tertiary hospitals in Shanghai, Mainland China, and a total of 597 patients completed a demographic information questionnaire, the FACIT–F and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy for Breast Cancer (FACT–B). Convergent validity was estimated by calculating the Pearson correlation coefficient of the FACIT–F with the FACT–B. Measurement invariance across age was performed by examining differential item functioning (DIF) across age groups (≤ 60 and > 60 years). The internal consistency and split–half reliability were performed for reliability analysis. Unidimensionality of the scale was evaluated by the principal component analysis by Rasch analysis. Additionally, Rasch analysis was performed for item difficulty levels, and an item–person map was used.

Results

No floor/ceiling effects were observed for the FACIT–F. Moderate correlations were found between FACIT–F and FACT–B (r = − 0.342, p < 0.01). Most items showed an absence of DIF regarding age, except for one item. In addition, the FACIT–F showed acceptable internal consistency. Principal component analysis of Rasch residuals showed that the proportion of variance explained by the FACIT–F was 53.3%, and the outfit mean square statistics for the items ranged from 0.68 to 1.90 and the infit MNSQ from 0.63 to 1.73. Additionally, an acceptable response between items and persons was found.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that the Chinese version of the FACIT–F is a valid tool for the measurement of fatigue in breast cancer patients.
Long-term efficacy of sialendoscopy in treating childhood Sjögren’s disease with chronological monitoring by salivary gland ultrasonography: A novel approach
Authors: Drew Kristin , Kronlage René , Cha Seunghee , Thatayatikom Akaluck , Schrepfer Thomas
Published: August 2023

Background

Childhood Sjögren’s Disease (cSjD) is an underdiagnosed phenomenon with clinical and pathophysiological nuances in contrast to Sjögren’s Disease (SjD) in the adult population. While adults typically experience sicca symptoms, children with cSjD often present with recurrent parotitis, diverse autoantibody profiles, and renal and neurological manifestations. Diagnosis and classification in pediatric rheumatology remain controversial due to the reliance on adult-focused diagnostic criteria and the lack of standardized treatment and understanding of outcomes. The purpose of the paper is to propose a multimodal treatment plan and demonstrate the effectiveness of sialendoscopy in the management of cSjD.

Case Presentation

We present the case of a twelve-year-old female diagnosed with cSjD using the 2016 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) diagnostic criteria for SjD. In addition to medical management, she underwent sialendoscopy with triamcinolone irrigation under sedation and was monitored for progress via salivary gland ultrasonography (SGUS). Over the course of one year, she demonstrated significant improvement in symptoms, with serial SGUS scores gradually decreasing by five points.

Conclusions

This paper proposes a multimodal treatment plan involving sialendoscopy and medical management as a non-invasive and potentially more effective approach for cSjD. Standardized monitoring through SGUS scoring allows objective and quantifiable measurement of treatment progress, enabling better assessment of glandular tissue status. Recurrence is possible, and each cSjD patient may present differently. Nevertheless, our year-long observation of a patient with cSjD demonstrates that sialendoscopy, as seen in adults, can promote remission of recurrent parotitis in children as well.
Characterization of choroid plexus in the preterm rabbit pup following subcutaneous administration of recombinant human IGF-1/IGFBP-3
Authors: Ortenlöf Niklas , Vallius Suvi , Karlsson Helena , Ekström Claes , Kristiansson Amanda , Holmqvist Bo , Göransson Olga , Vaváková Magdaléna , Rydén Martin , Carey Galen , Barton Norman , Ley David , Gram Magnus
Published: August 2023

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is essential for normal brain development and regulates essential processes of vascular maturation and stabilization. Importantly, preterm birth is associated with reduced serum levels of IGF-1 as compared to in utero levels. Using a preterm rabbit pup model, we investigated the uptake of systemic recombinant human (rh) IGF-1 in complex with its main binding protein IGF-binding protein 3 (BP-3) to the brain parenchyma via the choroid plexus. Five hours after subcutaneous administration, labeled rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 displayed a widespread presence in the choroid plexus of the lateral and third ventricle, however, to a less degree in the fourth, as well as in the perivascular and subarachnoid space. We found a time-dependent uptake of IGF-1 in cerebrospinal fluid, decreasing with postnatal age, and a translocation of IGF-1 through the choroid plexus. The impact of systemic rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 on IGF-1 receptor activation in the choroid plexus decreased with postnatal age, correlating with IGF-1 uptake in cerebrospinal fluid. In addition, choroid plexus gene expression was observed to increase with postnatal age. Moreover, using choroid plexus in vitro cell cultures, gene expression and protein synthesis were further investigated upon rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 stimulation as compared to rhIGF-1 alone, and found not to be differently altered. Here, we characterize the uptake of systemic rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 to the preterm brain, and show that the interaction between systemic rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 and choroid plexus varies over time.
Spinal intradural extramedullary tumors: microscopic keyhole resection with the focus on intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring and long-term outcome
Authors: Yu Bofei , Xiao Yuhua , Dai Hanhao , Yu Yunlong , Lin Yuan , Xu Jie
Published: August 2023

Objective

Spinal schwannomas (SS) and spinal meningiomas (SM) account for most intradural extramedullary (IDEM) tumors. These tumors are usually benign lesions, which generally respond favorably to surgical excision. Few studies up to now tried to determine the long-term outcome after minimally invasive surgery (MIS) with multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) for IDEM tumors. The aim of this study was to present one of the largest case series with special regard to IONM findings and long-term outcome after MIS-keyhole surgery with a tubular retractor system.

Methods

Between January 2013 and August 2018, 87 patients with IDEM tumors who underwent tumor removal surgery via MIS-keyhole approach under multimodal IONM were retrospectively reviewed. The neurological status was assessed using a modified McCormick grading scale pre- and postoperatively. Multimodal IONM consisted of motor evoked potentials (MEP), somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP), and electromyography (EMG). Both short-term and long-term clinical evaluations as well as patients’ medical files were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Surgeries were performed for resection of SS in 49 patients and SM in 38 patients. Tumor locations were cervical in 16.1%, thoracic in 48.3%, thoracolumbar in 4.6%, lumbar 31%. Critical IONM changes were detected in 9 operations (10.3%) in which there were 2 SEPs, 5 MEPs, and 2 EMG events. Three IONM changes (2 MEPs, 1 EMG) were turned out to be transient change in nature since they were resolved in a short time when immediate corrective actions were initiated. Six patients with permanent IONM changes (2SEPs, 3MEPs, 1EMG event), all deficits had resolved during hospitalization or on short -term follow-up evaluation. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predicted values of IONM were 100, 96, 67, and 100%, respectively. Gross total resection rate was 100%, and a stable or improved McCormick grade exhibited in all patients. No tumor recurrence and no spinal instability were found in the long-term follow-up evaluation (mean 5.2 ± 2.9 years postoperatively). Overall, 94% of patients were either satisfied or very satisfied with their operation, and 93% patients reported excellent or good general clinical outcome according to Odom’s criteria.

Conclusion

MIS-keyhole surgery with multimodal IONM for IDEM tumors enables a high level of satisfaction and a satisfying long-term clinical and surgical outcome.
Testing pathways to scale: study protocol for a three-arm randomized controlled trial of a centralized and a decentralized (“Train the Trainers”) dissemination of a mental health program for Kenyan adolescents
Authors: Ochuku Brenda , Osborn Tom L. , Nerima Daisy , van der Markt Afra , Rusch Thomas , Omune Herman , Akello Solace , Ndetei David M. , Venturo-Conerly Katherine E.
Published: August 2023

Background

Providing care in Kenya to all youth in need is difficult because of a shortage of professional providers and societal stigma. Previous trials of the Anansi model, which involves delivering low-touch mental health interventions through a tiered caregiving model (including lay-providers, supervisors, and clinical experts), have shown its effectiveness for reducing depression and anxiety symptoms in school-going Kenyan adolescents. In this trial, we aim to assess two different scale-up strategies by comparing centralized implementation (i.e., by the organization that designed the Anansi model) against implementation through an implementing partner.

Methods

In this three-arm trial, 1600 adolescents aged 13 to 20 years will be randomized to receive the Shamiri intervention from either the Shamiri Institute or an implementation partner or to be placed in the treatment as usual (TAU) control group. The implementation partner will be trained and supplied with protocols to ensure that the same procedures are followed by both implementors. Implementation activities will run concurrently for both implementors. The Shamiri intervention will be delivered by trained lay providers to groups of 10–15 adolescents over four weekly sessions which will take place in secondary schools in Machakos and Makueni counties in Kenya. The TAU group will receive the usual care offered by their respective schools. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, midpoint (2 weeks), endpoint (4 weeks), and 1 month follow-up. The analysis will be based on an intent-to-treat approach. Mixed effects models will be used to assess trajectories over time of the primary outcomes (anxiety and depressive symptoms, mental well-being, perceived social support, and academic performance) and secondary outcomes for the intervention groups and the control group. Effect sizes will be computed for the mean differences of the intervention and control arms at midpoint, endpoint, and follow-up.

Discussion

This trial will provide insight into the comparative effectiveness of different strategies for scaling a school-based mental health care model. Findings will also indicate areas for improved efficiency of the model to enhance its replicability by other implementors.

Trial registration

Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR) (ID: PACTR202305589854478, Approved: 02/05/2023).
A pragmatic, open-label, multi-center, randomized controlled clinical trial on the rotational use of interfaces vs standard of care in patients treated with noninvasive positive pressure ventilation for acute hypercapnic respiratory failure: the ROTAtional-USE of interface STUDY (ROTA-USE STUDY)
Authors: Vaschetto Rosanna , Gregoretti Cesare , Scotti Lorenza , De Vita Nello , Carlucci Annalisa , Cortegiani Andrea , Crimi Claudia , Mattei Alessio , Scala Raffaele , Rocca Eduardo , Longhini Federico , Cammarota Gianmaria , Misseri Giovanni , Dal Molin Alberto , Scolletta Sabino , Nava Stefano , Maggiore Salvatore Maurizio , Navalesi Paolo
Published: August 2023

Background

In the last decades, noninvasive ventilation (NIV) has been increasingly used to support patients with hypercapnic and hypoxemic acute respiratory failure. Pressure ulcers are a frequently observed NIV-related adverse effect, directly related to interface type and exposure time. Switching to a different interface has been proposed as a solution to improve patient comfort. However, large studies investigating the benefit of this strategy are not available. Thus, the aim of the ROTAtional-USE of interface STUDY (ROTA-USE STUDY) is to investigate whether a protocolized rotational use of interfaces during NIV is effective in reducing the incidence of pressure ulcers.

Methods

The ROTA-USE STUDY is a pragmatic, parallel arm, open-label, multicenter, spontaneous, non-profit, randomized controlled trial requiring non-significant risk medical devices, with the aim to determine whether a rotational strategy of NIV interfaces is associated with a lower incidence of pressure ulcers compared to the standard of care. In the intervention group, NIV mask will be randomly chosen and rotated every 6 h. In the control group, mask will be chosen according to the standard of care of the participating centers and changed in case of discomfort or in the presence of new pressure sores. In both groups, the skin underneath the mask will be inspected every 12 h for any possible damage by blinded assessors. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients developing new pressure sores at 36 h from randomization. The secondary outcomes are (i) onset of pressure sores measured at different time points, i.e., 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, and 96 h; (ii) number and stage of pressure sores and comfort measured at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, and 96 h; and (iii) the economic impact of the protocolized rotational use of interfaces. A sample size of 239 subjects per group (intervention and control) is estimated to detect a 10% absolute difference in the proportion of patients developing pressure sores at 36 h.

Discussion

The development of pressure ulcers is a common side effect of NIV that negatively affects the patients’ comfort and tolerance, often leading to NIV failure and adverse outcomes. The ROTA-USE STUDY will determine whether a protocolized rotational approach can reduce the incidence, number, and severity of pressure ulcers in NIV-treated patients.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05513508. Registered on August 24, 2022.
A response to Al et al. Trials 2023;24:233
Authors: Merz Jon F.
Published: August 2023

In their recent paper, Al and colleagues (Trials 2023;24:233) argue that manipulation of the methods of recruitment using well-known techniques in order to increase enrollment can be ethically acceptable. This brief response challenges that notion as an affront to voluntariness and a devolution of the ethics of human subjects research to the “ethics” of the marketplace.
6-Year trajectory of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and mortality risk among individuals with normal FPG at baseline: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Li Wanlu , Wen Chi Pang , Li Wenyuan , Ying Zhijun , Pan Sai , Li Yizhan , Zhu Zecheng , Yang Min , Tu Huakang , Guo Yi , Song Zhenya , Chu David Ta-Wei , Wu Xifeng
Published: August 2023

Background

Higher fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality; however, the associations between long-term FPG trajectory groups and mortality were unclear, especially among individuals with a normal FPG level at the beginning. The aims of this study were to examine the associations of FPG trajectories with the risk of mortality and identify modifiable lifestyle factors related to these trajectories.

Methods

We enrolled 50,919 individuals aged ≥ 20 years old, who were free of diabetes at baseline, in the prospective MJ cohort. All participants completed at least four FPG measurements within 6 years after enrollment and were followed until December 2011. FPG trajectories were identified by group-based trajectory modeling. We used Cox proportional hazards models to examine the associations of FPG trajectories with mortality, adjusting for age, sex, marital status, education level, occupation, smoking, drinking, physical activity, body mass index, baseline FPG, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease or stroke, and cancer. Associations between baseline lifestyle factors and FPG trajectories were evaluated using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

We identified three FPG trajectories as stable (n = 32,481), low-increasing (n = 17,164), and high-increasing (n = 1274). Compared to the stable group, both the low-increasing and high-increasing groups had higher risks of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.18 (95% CI 0.99–1.40) and 1.52 (95% CI 1.09–2.13), respectively), especially among those with hypertension. Compared to participants with 0 to 1 healthy lifestyle factor, those with 6 healthy lifestyle factors were more likely to be in the stable group (ORlow-increasing = 0.61, 95% CI 0.51–0.73; ORhigh-increasing = 0.20, 95% CI 0.13–0.32).

Conclusions

Individuals with longitudinally increasing FPG had a higher risk of mortality even if they had a normal FPG at baseline. Adopting healthy lifestyles may prevent individuals from transitioning into increasing trajectories.
Salmonella typhimurium necrotizing fasciitis: a case report
Authors: Othman Radwan El , Allaw Fatima , Kharsa Antoine , Hallit Souheil
Published: August 2023

Background

Necrotizing fasciitis is an aggressive disease that causes necrosis in the muscular fascia and subcutaneous tissues. The infection spreads rapidly along the fascia and perifascial planes, followed by extension of the infection to nearby soft tissues and muscles. Necrotizing fasciitis can be attributed to different pathogens, namely Staphylococcus aureus, group A streptococci, and Clostridium perfringes. Only a few cases of skin and soft tissue infections from Salmonella species have been reported to date. Herein we report a case of Salmonella non-typhi necrotizing fasciitis, an exceedingly rare entity. This case report may serve as a potential management plan in similar cases in light of the scarcity of evidence.

Case presentation

A 20-year-old Caucasian male patient with congenital cardiac anomaly presented with diarrhea and unilateral lower extremity cellulitis causing septic shock. Cultures from blood and the bullae associated with the lower extremity cellulitis grew Salmonella typhimurium. Surgical debridement was performed. Intraoperative tissue cultures were positive for Salmonella typhimurium, and surgical pathology confirmed the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis. After a total of 6 weeks of appropriate antimicrobial therapy, another surgical debridement was executed for poor wound healing. New intraoperative cultures grew Fusarium species, and the patient received voriconazole with an adequate response. Immunologic studies showed humoral and cellular immunodeficiency.

Conclusion

It is important to maintain a high index of suspicion for rare entities that can cause skin and soft tissue infections, such as Salmonella non-typhi, in particular in immunosuppressed patients where a delay in diagnosis and management may have significant morbidity and mortality.
NRX-101 (D-cycloserine plus lurasidone) vs. lurasidone for the maintenance of initial stabilization after ketamine in patients with severe bipolar depression with acute suicidal ideation and behavior: a randomized prospective phase 2 trial
Authors: Nierenberg Andrew , Lavin Philip , Javitt Daniel C. , Shelton Richard , Sapko Michael T. , Mathew Sanjay , Besthof Robert E. , Javitt Jonathan C.
Published: August 2023

Background

We tested the hypothesis that, after initial improvement with intravenous ketamine in patients with bipolar disorder (BD) with severe depression and acute suicidal thinking or behavior, a fixed-dose combination of oral D-cycloserine (DCS) and lurasidone (NRX-101) can maintain improvement more effectively than lurasidone alone.

Methods

This was a multi-center, double-blind, twostage, parallel randomized trial. Adult BD patients with depression and suicidal ideation or behavior were infused with ketamine or saline (Stage 1); those who improved were randomized to a fixed-dose combination of DCS and lurasidone vs. lurasidone alone (Stage 2) to maintain the improvement achieved in Stage 1. Depression was measured by the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and suicidal thinking and behavior was measured by the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS); global improvement was measured by the clinical global severity scale (CGI-S). Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02974010; Registered: November 22, 2016.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were screened and 22 were enrolled, randomized, and treated. All 22 patients treated in Stage 1 (17 with ketamine and 5 with saline) were enrolled into Stage 2, and 11 completed the study. The fixed-dose combination of DCS and lurasidone was significantly more effective than lurasidone alone in maintaining improvement in depression (MADRS LMS Δ-7.7; p = 0.03) and reducing suicidal ideation, as measured by C-SSRS (Δ-1.5; p = 0.02) and by CGI-SS (Δ-2.9; p = 0.03), and with a non-statistically significant decrease in depressive relapse (0% vs. 40%; p = 0.07). This sequential treatment regimen did not cause any significant safety events and demonstrated improvements in patient-reported side effects.

Conclusions

Sequential treatment of a single infusion of ketamine followed by NRX-101 maintenance is a promising therapeutic approach for reducing depression and suicidal ideation in patients with bipolar depression who require hospitalization due to acute suicidal ideation and behavior. On the basis of these findings, Breakthrough Therapy Designation was awarded, and a Special Protocol Agreement was granted by the FDA for a registrational trial.
A new piece of the puzzle: slag and ore analysis to reconstruct the prehispanic smelting technology at the Atacama Desert, Chile
Authors: Plaza María Teresa , Garrido Francisco , Larreina-García David
Published: August 2023

The Incas appropriated many local metallurgical technologies throughout the Andes, each of which had its unique peculiarities and was based on local ancestral knowledge. The widespread use of tin-bronze during the Inca expansion, the development of mining and smelting sites, as well as ethno-historical records evidence the Incas’ interest in copper smelting, a key activity in the Andes since ca. 1400 BC. However, little is known about the technical parameters achieved by ancient metallurgists and the changes that occurred during the Inca expansion. In this paper, we address these changes through a case study of Copiapó valley, focusing on the Viña del Cerro site, one of the most famous Inca smelting centres of the southern Andes. Although this place was architectonically restructured by the Incas, its operations began long before the imperial expansion and used wind-powered furnaces. We analysed 19 slag and 11 copper ore samples using OM, SEM–EDS, WD-XRF, and XRD analyses. Results identified heterogeneous and viscous slags, rich in SiO2 (43 wt%) and poor in FeO (13 wt%). Copper retention was high (up to 60 wt%). Microstructural analyses indicate that slags were formed under unstable oxidising conditions, reaching temperatures that ranged between 1000 to 1100 °C. The copper produced was very pure. High-grade copper ores containing up to 69 wt% CuO were reduced at the site, combining carbonates (malachite, azurite), halides (buttgenbachite, clinoatacamite), and some sulphates (brochantite). We propose that even under the relatively unfavourable conditions for slag formation, the smelting conditions generated at Viña del Cerro were competent enough to extract metal, but not necessarily enough to form liquid slag. These conditions were facilitated by the local metallurgists’ thorough knowledge of the wind flow and their ability to select the right ore. This new information contributes to understanding the efficiency of metallurgical technology and the knowledge, skills, and adaptability of the ancient metallurgists from Copiapó valley, a group that was integrated into the economic networks of the Inca Empire.
Dynamic nucleation as a cascade-up of earthquakes depending on rupture propagation velocity
Authors: Uemura Kansuke , Ide Satoshi , Aochi Hideo
Published: August 2023

Earthquake dynamic rupture requires a nucleation process to provide sufficient energy to overcome the fracture energy. Large earthquakes may occur via a cascading rupture process, which includes many triggering processes that cascade from small to large sections of the fault system. During such a process, the nucleation of a large section of the fault plane may occur dynamically via the propagating rupture from a small section of the fault plane. A quasi-static view of seismic nucleation has been widely discussed in earthquake seismology; however, the dynamic nucleation process remains poorly known. Here, we investigate one aspect of the dynamic nucleation process by focusing on the rupture propagation velocity during the nucleation process. We simplify this process as self-similar crack propagation at a constant rupture velocity in a finite nucleation zone within a target region that possesses a uniform fracture energy. We numerically solve this elastodynamic problem in two dimensions for both the anti-plane and in-plane cases using the Boundary Integral Equation method. As the rupture velocity increases, the critical ratio of the fracture energy step to continue the rupture increases and the critical size of the dynamic nucleation zone decreases. The rapid increase in the ratio of the fracture energy step toward infinity could explain why earthquakes never propagate at slow rupture velocities. However, the effect on the size of the nucleation zone is rather limited, with the size of the dynamic nucleation zone decreasing to ~ 70% of the static nucleation zone size. However, such a small difference would result in a significant overall difference if such a dynamic nucleation process repeatedly occurred in the cascading rupture process of a large earthquake, which would be a difficult situation for earthquake early warning.

Graphical Abstract
Exploring the Neandertal legacy of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma risk in Eurasians
Authors: Piccardi Margherita , Gentiluomo Manuel , Bertoncini Stefania , Pezzilli Raffaele , Erőss Bálint , Bunduc Stefania , Uzunoglu Faik G. , Talar-Wojnarowska Renata , Vanagas Tomas , Sperti Cosimo , Oliverius Martin , Aoki Mateus Nóbrega , Ermini Stefano , Hussein Tamás , Boggi Ugo , Jamroziak Krzysztof , Maiello Evaristo , Morelli Luca , Vodickova Ludmila , Di Franco Gregorio , Landi Stefano , Szentesi Andrea , Lovecek Martin , Puzzono Marta , Tavano Francesca , van Laarhoven Hanneke W. M. , Zerbi Alessandro , Mohelnikova-Duchonova Beatrice , Stocker Hannah , Costello Eithne , Capurso Gabriele , Ginocchi Laura , Lawlor Rita T. , Vanella Giuseppe , Bazzocchi Francesca , Izbicki Jakob R. , Latiano Anna , Bueno-de-Mesquita Bas , Ponz de Leon Pisani Ruggero , Schöttker Ben , Soucek Pavel , Hegyi Péter , Gazouli Maria , Hackert Thilo , Kupcinskas Juozas , Poskiene Lina , Tacelli Matteo , Roth Susanne , Carrara Silvia , Perri Francesco , Hlavac Viktor , Theodoropoulos George E. , Busch Olivier R. , Mambrini Andrea , van Eijck Casper H. J. , Arcidiacono Paolo , Scarpa Aldo , Pasquali Claudio , Basso Daniela , Lucchesi Maurizio , Milanetto Anna Caterina , Neoptolemos John P. , Cavestro Giulia Martina , Janciauskas Dainius , Chen Xuechen , Chammas Roger , Goetz Mara , Brenner Hermann , Archibugi Livia , Dannemann Michael , Canzian Federico , Tofanelli Sergio , Campa Daniele
Published: August 2023

Background

The genomes of present-day non-Africans are composed of 1–3% of Neandertal-derived DNA as a consequence of admixture events between Neandertals and anatomically modern humans about 50–60 thousand years ago. Neandertal-introgressed single nucleotide polymorphisms (aSNPs) have been associated with modern human disease-related traits, which are risk factors for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and inflammation. In this study, we aimed at investigating the role of aSNPs in PDAC in three Eurasian populations.

Results

The high-coverage Vindija Neandertal genome was used to select aSNPs in non-African populations from 1000 Genomes project phase 3 data. Then, the association between aSNPs and PDAC risk was tested independently in Europeans and East Asians, using existing GWAS data on more than 200 000 individuals. We did not find any significant associations between aSNPs and PDAC in samples of European descent, whereas, in East Asians, we observed that the Chr10p12.1-rs117585753-T allele (MAF = 10%) increased the risk to develop PDAC (OR = 1.35, 95%CI 1.19–1.54, P = 3.59 × 10–6), with a P-value close to a threshold that takes into account multiple testing.

Conclusions

Our results show only a minimal contribution of Neandertal SNPs to PDAC risk.
Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) alleviate paclitaxel-induced spermatogenesis defects and maintain male fertility
Authors: Zhang YuSheng , Liu YaNan , Teng Zi , Wang ZeLin , Zhu Peng , Wang ZhiXin , Liu FuJun , Liu XueXia
Published: August 2023

Chemotherapeutic drugs can cause reproductive damage by affecting sperm quality and other aspects of male fertility. Stem cells are thought to alleviate the damage caused by chemotherapy drugs and to play roles in reproductive protection and treatment. This study aimed to explore the effects of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) on alleviating paclitaxel (PTX)-induced spermatogenesis and male fertility defects. An in vivo PTX-induced mice model was constructed to evaluate the reproductive toxicity and protective roles of hUC-MSCs in male fertility improvement. A 14 day PTX treatment regimen significantly attenuated mice spermatogenesis and sperm quality, including affecting spermatogenesis, reducing sperm counts, and decreasing sperm motility. hUC-MSCs treatment could significantly improve sperm functional indicators. Mating experiments with normal female mice and examination of embryo development at 7.5 days post-coitum (dpc) showed that hUC-MSCs restored male mouse fertility that was reduced by PTX. In IVF experiments, PTX impaired sperm fertility and blastocyst development, but hUC-MSCs treatment rescued these indicators. hUC-MSCs’ protective role was also displayed through the increased expression of the fertility-related proteins HSPA2 and HSPA4L in testes with decreased expression in the PTX-treated group. These changes might be related to the PTX-induced decreases in expression of the germ cell proliferation protein PCNA and the meiosis proteins SYCP3, MLH1, and STRA8, which were restored after hUC-MSCs treatment. In the PTX-treated group, the expression of testicular antioxidant proteins SIRT1, NRF2, CAT, SOD1, and PRDX6 was significantly decreased, but hUC-MSCs could maintain these expressions and reverse PTX-related increases in BAX/BCL2 ratios. hUC-MSCs may be a promising agent with antioxidant and anti-apoptosis characteristics that can maintain sperm quality following chemotherapy treatment.
Knowledge about stem cell sources and obstacles in donation of bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cells: a cross-sectional survey from Ha’il city to track the prospects of regenerative medicine in Saudi Arabia
Authors: AL-Shammary Asma Ayyed , Hassan Sehar un-Nisa
Published: August 2023

Background

Promoting stem cell donation behaviors could be crucial in advancing stem cell-based treatment, research and improving public health in Saudi Arabia. Donation of stem cells can be considered an act of social welfare just like blood donation because stem-cell-based therapies are emerging as a hope for those suffering from chronic health conditions and/or terminal illnesses.

Aim

This study aims at assessing levels of awareness about sources of stem-cells, donor organizations and predictors of stem cell donation behavior in target population.

Methods

The study employed a cross-sectional online survey method. The study sample comprises 1325 educated Saudi people living in Ha’il city. The survey questionnaire collected data about respondents’ demographic background, awareness about various sources of stem cells and stem-cell donor registries, willingness to donate stem cells, registration status and obstacles in stem cell donation registration. Percentages, Chi-square analysis and Odd Ratios were computed to analyze the data.

Results

In this sample, (n = 696; 52%) were males and (n = 629; 48%) were females. Although (n = 1308; 98%) percent of respondents reported willingness to donate stem cell, less than one percent (n = 6; 0.5) were registered with Saudi Stem Cell Registry. Over 50% of respondents hold inaccurate perceptions about sources of stem cell. Odd Ratio (OR) values from binary logistic regression model identified four factors as significant predictors of non-registration status. These included (i) unaware about donor agencies and procedures (OR = 10.07; p < 0.05), (ii) unaware about possibility to donate stem cells (OR = 8.08; p < 0.05) (iii) concerns about impact on health (OR = 10.01; p < 0.05) and (iv) have health issues that does not permit donation (OR = 10.50; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Stem cell registrations can be enhanced through appropriate health education programs that focus on increasing awareness about donation procedures, trustworthy donor organizations and reducing people apprehensions related to donation.
Korea hypertension fact sheet 2022: analysis of nationwide population-based data with a special focus on hypertension in the elderly
Authors: Kim Hyeon Chang , Lee Hokyou , Lee Hyeok-Hee , Lee Gabin , Kim Eunji , Song Moses , Moon Jenny , Seo Yeeun ,   for the Korean Society of Hypertension (KSH)-Hypertension Epidemiology Research Working Group
Published: August 2023

Background

The Korean Society of Hypertension has published the Korea Hypertension Fact Sheet 2022 to provide an overview of the magnitude and management status of hypertension and their recent trends.

Methods

The Fact Sheets were based on the analyses of Korean adults aged 20 years or older of the 1998–2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and the 2002–2020 National Health Insurance Big Data.

Results

As of 2020, 29.4% of the adult population aged 20 or older in Korea, about 12.6 million people, have high blood pressure, of which 5.0 million (40%) are 65 years of age or older and 1.2 million (10%) are 80 years of age or older. Among those with hypertension, the awareness rate is 69%, the treatment rate is 65%, and the control rate is 47%. The number of people diagnosed with hypertension increased from 3.0 million in 2002 to 10.5 million in 2020. During the same period, the number of people using antihypertensive medication increased from 2.5 million to 9.9 million, and the number of people adherent to treatment increased from 0.6 million to 7.4 million. Among those treated for hypertension in 2020, 74% used angiotensin blockers, 61% used calcium channel blockers, 24% used diuretics, and 15% used beta blockers. Combination therapy with at least two classes of antihypertensive medication consisted of 60% of all antihypertensive prescriptions. The number of people with hypertension aged 65 or older is increasing very rapidly compared to those aged 20–64. Awareness and treatment rates of hypertension improved rapidly, especially in those aged 65 or older, but the rate of improvement slowed since 2012.

Conclusions

In Korea, the level of hypertension management is improving, but the absolute number of people with hypertension, especially elderly hypertension, is increasing due to the rapid aging of the population. It is necessary to develop more efficient and target-specific policies to control blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular disease.
Reliability and measurement error of sensorimotor tests in patients with neck pain: a systematic review
Authors: Elsig Simone , Allet Lara , Bastiaenen Caroline Henrice Germaine , de Bie Rob , Hilfiker Roger
Published: August 2023

Background

Neck pain is one of the leading causes of years lived with disability, and approximately half of people with neck pain experience recurrent episodes. Deficits in the sensorimotor system can persist even after pain relief, which may contribute to the chronic course of neck pain in some patients. Evaluation of sensorimotor capacities in patients with neck pain is therefore important. No consensus exists on how sensorimotor capacities of the neck should be assessed in physiotherapy. The aims of this systematic review are: (a) to provide an overview of tests used in physiotherapy for assessment of sensorimotor capacities in patients with neck pain; and (b) to provide information about reliability and measurement error of these tests, to enable physiotherapists to select appropriate tests.

Methods

Medline, CINAHL, Embase and PsycINFO databases were searched for studies reporting data on the reliability and/or measurement error of sensorimotor tests in patients with neck pain. The results for reliability and measurement error were compared against the criteria for good measurement properties. The quality of evidence was assessed according to the modified GRADE method proposed by the COSMIN group.

Results

A total of 206 tests for assessment of sensorimotor capacities of the neck were identified and categorized into 18 groups of tests. The included tests did not cover all aspects of the sensorimotor system; tests for the sensory and motor components were identified, but not for the central integration component. Furthermore, no data were found on reliability or measurement error for some tests that are used in practice, such as movement control tests, which apply to the motor component. Approximately half of the tests showed good reliability, and 12 were rated as having good (+) reliability. However, tests that evaluated complex movements, which are more difficult to standardize, were less reliable. Measurement error could not be evaluated because the minimal clinically important change was not available for all tests.

Conclusion

Overall, the quality of evidence is not yet high enough to enable clear recommendations about which tests to use to assess the sensorimotor capacities of the neck.
A familiar peer improves students’ behavior patterns, attention, and performance when learning from video lectures
Authors: Pi Zhongling , Zhang Yi , Yu Qiuchen , Yang Jiumin
Published: August 2023

Synchronous online learning via technology has become a major trend in institutions of higher education, allowing students to learn from video lectures alongside their peers online. However, relatively little research has focused on the influence of these peers on students’ learning during video lectures and even less on the effect of peer familiarity. The present study aimed to test the various effects of peer presence and peer familiarity on learning from video lectures. There were three experimental conditions: individual-learning, paired-learning with an unfamiliar peer, and paired-learning with a familiar peer. ANCOVA results found that students paired with a familiar peer reported higher motivation in learning and more self-monitoring behaviors than those paired with an unfamiliar peer or who learned alone. Furthermore, students paired with both unfamiliar or familiar peers demonstrated better learning transfer than those who learned alone. Together, these results confirm the benefits of and support learning alongside a familiar peer during video lectures.
Probiotics: friend or foe to the human immune system
Authors: Singh Devendra , Singh Archana , Kumar Sunil
Published: August 2023

Background

Live microorganisms known as probiotics have been shown to improve or restore the gut microbiota, which in turn has been linked to improved health. Probiotics are the modern equivalent of a panacea, with claims that they may treat or prevent anything from colic in babies to obesity, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.

Main body of the abstract

It has been proven by a few researchers that probiotics are effective in treating numerous ailments by controlling the host’s immunological response. But on the other side, the probiotic industry takes a more straightforward, “one-formula-fits-all” approach to probiotic therapy. As the unique native microbiota of each person is another crucial factor in recommending probiotic therapy. Approximately 1000 distinct bacterial species reside in the human gut. It will take further research into how probiotic strains interact with the microbiota, so there is still a long way to go before probiotics can be used to their full potential.

Short conclusion

This review study provides a thorough description of probiotics and seeks to establish whether they are beneficial to or harmful to the human immune system and their mode of action.
Current status of TORCH infection Seroprevalence in pregnant women: a cross-sectional study in Al Sharqia Governorate, Egypt
Authors: Gouda Marwa A. , Katawy Ahmed M. El , Ashry Walaa Mohamed Omar , Said Huda E. M.
Published: August 2023

Background

TORCH infections during pregnancy significantly impact neonatal and maternal mortality rates worldwide. This study aimed to gather baseline serological data for pregnant women's immunological status to infection and determine if definite TORCH pathogens (cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, and Herpes simplex virus) were associated with Toxoplasma infection, to improve prenatal care and provide appropriate infection control strategies.

Methodology

Blood samples were gathered from 210 pregnant women attending Al Zagazig University hospitals from February to May 2023. Samples were examined for specific IgM and IgG antibodies against TORCH pathogens by electrochemiluminescence technique.

Results

Regarding TORCH infection, 60 (28.6%) cases were seronegative, while 77 (36.7%), 63 (30.0%), 56 (26.7%), and 15 (7.1%) were positive IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii, cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, and Herpes simplex virus, respectively. There was no estimate for IgM for cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, or Herpes simplex virus, indicating that no primary infection had been detected during the pregnancy. There was a statistically significant association between seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis infections (IgM and IgG) and age group ≤ 25 years, which is the most common childbearing age group. Cytomegalovirus seropositivity was found in those beyond 25 years (P-value 0.001). Antibodies to mono-infections were found in 97/210 (46.2%) subjects. It is substantially higher under-25 years age group, 71/97 (73.2%), P-value of 0.001. 45/210 (21.4%) participants had antibodies to two agents, with no significant difference in the age group over 25 years, 26/45 (57.8%). Antibodies to three agents were assessed in eight instances, all under 25 years.

Conclusions

According to our findings, serological evaluation for the TORCH complex in all pregnant women is recommended to determine infection immunity, current immunization regimens, and infection reactivation. Low TORCH antibodies rates amongst pregnant women in Egypt's Sharqia governorate might be an appropriate starting point for prenatal screening initiatives.
Cryptogenic hepatic abscess in an infant and management challenges in a resource limited setting: a case report
Authors: Adeniyi Oluwafunmilayo Funke , Daniel Nelson , Ashefor Olivia , Akintan Patricia
Published: August 2023

Background

Pyogenic liver abscess is a rare condition in children especially in early infancy. The diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and treatment has to be aggressive to avoid fatality. There is a rarity of reports of the condition in infancy in the African population. Thus, we report a case of the hepatic abscess with documented hypergammaglobulinemia in a young infant seen at the Lagos University Teaching hospital.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 38-day-old female infant who presented with 4 weeks history of fever and 2 weeks history of progressive abdominal distension. At the onset of illness abdominal ultrasound suggested hepatic abscess and abdominal CT scan confirmed multiple loculated collections in 3 segments of the liver. Patient had drainage of the abscess and additional investigations revealed hypergammaglobulinemia (IgM, IgG, and IgE) in the patient. She completed 6 weeks of antibiotics and made significant clinical improvement.

Conclusions

Pyogenic liver abscess should be considered in the differential diagnosis of an infant with pyrexia with abdominal swelling, even in the absence of well-established risk factors. A high index of suspicion for underlying primary immunodeficiency is important when the condition is diagnosed in early infancy.
Utility of the Kimura technique for the definitive management of high jejunal atresia
Authors: Boonthai Ampaipan , Losty Paul D.
Published: August 2023

Background

Operative management of high jejunal atresia may be challenging due to significant size discrepancy between the dilated proximal jejunum and distal atretic bowel.

Case presentation

We report a female newborn infant with a high type 1 proximal jejunal atresia located precariously at the duodenojejunal flexure which was successfully corrected with the Kimura operation, i.e., jejunojejunostomy as originally first described for duodenal atresia. The patient was weaned onto full enteral feeds by the end of the first postoperative week and promptly discharged without complication(s).

Conclusions

The utility and versatility of Kimura’s diamond-shaped anastomosis are highlighted in this unique case report.