bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesenchymal stromal cell-derived secretome-based therapy for neurodegenerative diseases: overview of clinical trials
Authors: Ghasemi Maryam , Roshandel Elham , Mohammadian Mozhdeh , Farhadihosseinabadi Behrouz , Akbarzadehlaleh Parvin , Shamsasenjan Karim
Published: May 2023

Background

Over the past few years, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have attracted a great deal of scientific attention owing to their promising results in the treatment of incurable diseases. However, there are several concerns about their possible side effects after direct cell transplantation, including host immune response, time-consuming cell culture procedures, and the dependence of cell quality on the donor, which limit the application of MSCs in clinical trials. On the other hand, it is well accepted that the beneficial effects of MSCs are mediated by secretome rather than cell replacement. MSC secretome refers to a variety of bioactive molecules involved in different biological processes, specifically neuro-regeneration.

Main body

Due to the limited ability of the central nervous system to compensate for neuronal loss and relieve disease progress, mesenchymal stem cell products may be used as a potential cure for central nervous system disorders. In the present study, the therapeutic effects of MSC secretome were reviewed and discussed the possible mechanisms in the three most prevalent central nervous system disorders, namely Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. The current work aimed to help discover new medicine for the mentioned complications.

Conclusion

The use of MSC-derived secretomes in the treatment of the mentioned diseases has encouraging results, so it can be considered as a treatment option for which no treatment has been introduced so far.
Efficacy and safety of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells for COVID-19 pneumonia: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Qinxue , Ma Fengjie , Zhong Yizhi , Wang Gaojian , Hu Li , Zhang Yaping , Xie Junran
Published: May 2023

Background

Elevated levels of inflammatory factors are associated with poor prognosis in coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). However, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have immunomodulatory functions. Accordingly, this meta-analysis aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of MSC-based therapy in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods

Online global databases were used to find relevant studies. Two independent researchers then selected and evaluated the studies for suitability while the Cochrane risk of bias tool determined the quality of all articles and Cochran's Q test and I2index assessed the degree of heterogeneity in the principal studies. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager software, and the effect of each study on the overall estimate was evaluated by sensitivity analysis.

Results

Seven studies were included in the meta-analysis, and all MSCs used in the trials were acquired from the umbilical cord. The results of these studies (n = 328) indicated that patients with COVID-19 pneumonia who received MSCs had a 0.58 risk of death compared with controls (95% CI = 0.38, 0.87; P = 0.53; I2 = 0%). In terms of inflammatory biomarkers, MSCs reduced the levels of C-reactive protein (n = 88; MD =  − 32.49; 95% CI =  − 48.43, − 16.56; P = 0.46; I2 = 0%) and interferon-gamma (n = 44; SMD =  − 1.23; 95% CI =  − 1.89, − 0.57; P = 0.37; I2 = 0%) in severe COVID-19 patients but had no significant effect on interleukin-6 (n = 185; MD =  − 0.75; 95% CI =  − 7.76, 6.27; P = 0.57; I2 = 0%). A summary of the data revealed no significant differences in adverse events (n = 287) or serious adverse events (n = 229) between the MSC and control groups.

Conclusions

Infusion of umbilical cord-derived MSCs is an effective strategy for treating patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, with no noticeable adverse effects.
Comparison of therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells derived from superficial and deep subcutaneous adipose tissues
Authors: Ishiuchi Naoki , Nakashima Ayumu , Maeda Satoshi , Miura Yoshie , Miyasako Kisho , Sasaki Kensuke , Uchiki Toshio , Sasaki Ayano , Nagamatsu Shogo , Nakao Naoki , Nagao Masataka , Masaki Takao
Published: May 2023

Background

Fibrosis is a common histological feature in the process from chronic organ injury to organ failure. Chronic tissue injury causes inflammatory cell infiltration into the injured tissue. The persistence of this inflammatory cell infiltration leads to fibrosis and organ failure. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) have received much attention as a regenerative therapeutic tool to prevent progression from organ injury to failure. Subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue is divided into superficial and deep layers by a superficial fascia. Adipose tissue easily collected by liposuction is usually obtained from a deep layer, so ASCs derived from a deep layer are generally used for regenerative medicine. However, no research has been conducted to investigate differences in the therapeutic effects of ASCs from the superficial and deep layers (Sup-ASCs and Deep-ASCs, respectively). Therefore, we compared the therapeutic potencies of Sup-ASCs and Deep-ASCs.

Methods

ASCs were isolated from superficial and deep subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissues collected from patients who underwent breast reconstruction. We first compared cell characteristics, such as morphology, cell proliferation, cell surface markers, adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation, cell senescence markers, and expression of coagulation and anticoagulant factors between Sup-ASCs and Deep-ASCs. Furthermore, we compared their ability to promote polarization of M2 macrophages and to inhibit transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/Smad signaling using THP-1 cells and TGF-β1 stimulated HK-2 cells incubated with conditioned media from Sup-ASCs or Deep-ASCs. In in vivo experiments, after renal ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) procedure, Sup-ASCs or Deep-ASCs were injected through the abdominal aorta. At 21 days post-injection, the rats were sacrificed and their left kidneys were collected to evaluate fibrosis. Finally, we performed RNA-sequencing analysis of Sup-ASCs and Deep-ASCs.

Results

Sup-ASCs had greater proliferation and adipogenic differentiation compared with Deep-ASCs, whereas both ASC types had similar morphology, cell surface markers, senescence markers, and expression of coagulation and anticoagulant factors. Conditioned media from Sup-ASCs and Deep-ASCs equally promoted polarization of M2 macrophages and suppressed TGF-β/Smad signaling. Moreover, administration of Sup-ASCs and Deep-ASCs equally ameliorated renal fibrosis induced by IRI in rats. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed no significant difference in the expression of genes involved in anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects between Sup-ASCs and Deep-ASCs.

Conclusions

These results indicate that both Sup-ASCs and Deep-ASCs can be used effectively and safely as an intravascular ASC therapy for organ injury.
Quality measures for palliative care in patients living with cancer in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Motlana M. K. T. N. , Makhunga S. E. , Jafta N. , Ginindza T. G.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Quality assessment is a critical component of determining the value of medical services, including palliative care. The utilisation of palliative care quality measures could assist in assessing the degree to which patients living with cancer conform to best practice of palliative care, identifying gaps and monitoring changes in cancer care delivery models in different setting. This scoping review aims to map the available data on the usage of palliative care quality indicators that are relevant to cancer patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

To structure this study, we will use the framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley, the Levac et al. recommendations and the Joanna Briggs Institute recommendations. We will search EBSCOHost, Web of Science, ProQuest One Academic, MEDLINE and Google Scholar for evidence on palliative care quality measures applicable for patients living with cancer published from inception till 2022. We will search grey literature in the form of dissertations, conference proceedings and websites of international organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) reporting palliative care quality measures applicable to patients living with cancer in LMICs.

Discussion

The purpose of this study is to establish the extent of existing research on the palliative care quality measures in LMICs. Although palliative care is still a new phenomenon, understanding of the palliative care quality measures applicable for cancer patients will assist to improve care across all components of health systems.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required for the study as the data collection and results of the proposed scoping review will be conducted and disseminated electronically using peer-reviewed journals, print and presentations at scientific conferences and stakeholder presentations.
The impact of technology systems and level of support in digital mental health interventions: a secondary meta-analysis
Authors: Sasseville Maxime , LeBlanc Annie , Tchuente Jack , Boucher Mylène , Dugas Michèle , Gisèle Mbemba , Barony Romina , Chouinard Maud-Christine , Beaulieu Marianne , Beaudet Nicolas , Skidmore Becky , Cholette Pascale , Aspiros Christine , Larouche Alain , Chabot Guylaine , Gagnon Marie-Pierre
Published: May 2023

Background

The majority of people with a chronic disease (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, COPD) have more than one concurrent condition and are also at higher risk for developing comorbidities in mental health, including anxiety and depression. There is an urgent need for more relevant and accurate data on digital interventions in this area to prepare for an increase demand for mental health services. The aim of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis of the digital mental health interventions for people with comorbid physical and mental chronic diseases to compare the effect of technology systems and level of support.

Methods

This secondary meta-analysis follows a rapid review of systematic reviews, a virtual workshop with knowledge users to identify research questions and a modified Delphi study to guide research methods: What types of digital health interventions (according to a recognized categorization) are the most effective for the management of concomitant mental health and chronic disease conditions in adults? We conducted a secondary analysis of the primary studies identified in the rapid review. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts and applied inclusion criteria: RCT design using a digital mental health intervention in a population of adults with another chronic condition, published after 2010 in French or English, and including an outcome measurement of anxiety or depression.

Results

Seven hundred eight primary studies were extracted from the systematic reviews and 84 primary studies met the inclusion criteria Digital mental health interventions were significantly more effective than in-person care for both anxiety and depression outcomes. Online messaging was the most effective technology to improve anxiety and depression scores; however, all technology types were effective. Interventions partially supported by healthcare professionals were more effective than self-administered.

Conclusions

While our meta-analysis identifies digital intervention’s characteristics are associated with better effectiveness, all technologies and levels of support could be used considering implementation context and population.

Trial registration

The protocol for this review is registered in the National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools (NCCMT) COVID-19 Rapid Evidence Service (ID 75).
Lymph nodes primary staging of colorectal cancer in 18F-FDG PET/MRI: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ren Qingwei , Chen Yanyan , Shao Xuejun , Guo Lanzhong , Xu Xinxin
Published: May 2023

Objective

To assess the diagnostic efficacy of 18F-FDG PET/MRI for lymph node (LN) metastasis primary staging in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

This study was conducted and reported in accordance with the PRISMA-DTA statement. Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library) were searched for studies on 18F-FDG PET/MRI for diagnosing LN metastasis. The pooled sensitivity (SEN), specificity (SPE), and area under the curve (AUC) were applied to assess the diagnostic performance. Heterogeneity was identified and processed using meta-regression and sensitivity analysis. All data analyses were performed via STATA 15 and Meta-Disc 1.4 software.

Results

There were finally 7 studies included, involving a total of 184 patients. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient was 0.108 (P = 0.818), with no threshold-effect observed. The pooled SEN was 0.81 (95%CI 0.66–0.90) and the SPE was 0.89 (95% CI 0.73–0.96). In sub-groups, prospective groups demonstrated to have the highest SEN of 0.92 (95%CI 0.79–1.00). The studies conducted by Catalano et al. and Kang et al. were considered to be potential sources of heterogeneity.

Conclusion

18F-FDG PET/MRI has shown remarkable diagnostic performance in identification of LN metastases in newly diagnosed CRC patients. It would be of great application value for the primary staging of CRC lymph node metastases.
Serum metabolic profile and metabolome genome-wide association study in chicken
Authors: Tian Jing , Zhu Xiaoning , Wu Hanyu , Wang Yuzhe , Hu Xiaoxiang
Published: May 2023

Background

Chickens provide globally important livestock products. Understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms underpinning chicken economic traits is crucial for improving their selective breeding. Influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, metabolites are the ultimate expression of physiological processes and can provide key insights into livestock economic traits. However, the serum metabolite profile and genetic architecture of the metabolome in chickens have not been well studied.

Results

Here, comprehensive metabolome detection was performed using non-targeted LC–MS/MS on serum from a chicken advanced intercross line (AIL). In total, 7,191 metabolites were used to construct a chicken serum metabolomics dataset and to comprehensively characterize the serum metabolism of the chicken AIL population. Regulatory loci affecting metabolites were identified in a metabolome genome-wide association study (mGWAS). There were 10,061 significant SNPs associated with 253 metabolites that were widely distributed across the entire chicken genome. Many functional genes affect metabolite synthesis, metabolism, and regulation. We highlight the key roles of TDH and AASS in amino acids, and ABCB1 and CD36 in lipids.

Conclusions

We constructed a chicken serum metabolite dataset containing 7,191 metabolites to provide a reference for future chicken metabolome characterization work.

Meanwhile, we used mGWAS to analyze the genetic basis of chicken metabolic traits and metabolites and to improve chicken breeding.
Food and the prison environment: a meta-ethnography of global first-hand experiences of food, meals and eating in custody
Authors: Woods-Brown Clair , Hunt Kate , Sweeting Helen
Published: May 2023

Background

Prison foodways offer a unique opportunity to improve the physical and mental health and wellbeing of an underserved population, yet prison food is often rejected in favour of ‘junk’ food. Improved understanding of the meanings of food in prison is necessary to inform prison food policy and enhance the prison environment.

Results

A meta-ethnographic synthesis of 27 papers integrated first-hand experiences of food in prison from 10 different countries. The lived experience for most in custody is of poor-quality prison-issued meals, necessarily consumed at a time and place at odds with socio-cultural norms. Beyond nutrition, food carries clear symbolic meanings in prison; through everyday food activities in prison, especially cooking, empowerment, participation, agency and identity are negotiated and performed. Cooking (with others or alone) can reduce anxiety and depression and increase feelings of self-efficacy and resilience in a socially, psychologically, and financially disadvantaged population. Integrating cooking and sharing food into the routine of prison life strengthens the skills and resources available to prisoners, empowering them as they move from the prison environment to the community.

Conclusions

The potential of food to enhance the prison environment and support improvements in prisoner health and wellbeing is limited when the nutritional content is inadequate and/or where food is served and eaten impacts negatively on human dignity. Prison policy which provides opportunities for cooking and sharing food that better reflects familial and cultural identity has the potential to improve relationships, increase self-esteem, build and maintain life skills needed for reintegration.
Examining the experiences of pediatric mental health care providers during the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Bright Katherine , Cullen Emma , Conlon Olivia , Zulla Rosslynn T. , Nicholas David B. , Dimitropoulos Gina
Published: May 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally impacted the way that mental health services were provided. In order to prevent the spread of infection, many new public health precautions, including mandated use of masks, quarantine and isolation, and closures of many in-person activities, were implemented. Public health mandates made it necessary for mental health services to immediately shift their mode of delivery, creating increased confusion and stress for mental health providers. The objective of this study is to understand the impact of pandemics on the clinical and personal lives of mental health providers working with children during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, March -June 2020.

Methods

Mental health providers (n = 98) were recruited using purposive sampling from a public health service in Canada. Using qualitative methods, semi-structured focus groups were conducted to understand the experiences of mental health service providers during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

Data from the focus groups were analysed and three main themes emerged: (1) shift to virtual delivery and working from home; (2) concerns about working in person; (3) exhaustion and stress from working through the pandemic.

Discussion

This study gave voice to mental health providers as they provided continuity of care throughout the uncertain early months of the pandemic. The results provide insight into the impact times of crisis have on mental health providers, as well as provide practical considerations for the future in terms of supervision and feedback mechanisms to validate experiences.
Application of microservices patterns to big data systems
Authors: Ataei Pouya , Staegemann Daniel
Published: May 2023

The panorama of data is ever evolving, and big data has emerged to become one of the most hyped terms in the industry. Today, users are the perpetual producers of data that if gleaned and crunched, have the potential to reveal game-changing patterns. This has introduced an important shift regarding the role of data in organizations and many strive to harness to power of this new material. Howbeit, institutionalizing data is not an easy task and requires the absorption of a great deal of complexity. According to the literature, it is estimated that only 13% of organizations succeeded in delivering on their data strategy. Among the root challenges, big data system development and data architecture are prominent. To this end, this study aims to facilitate data architecture and big data system development by applying well-established patterns of microservices architecture to big data systems. This objective is achieved by two systematic literature reviews, and infusion of results through thematic synthesis. The result of this work is a series of theories that explicates how microservices patterns could be useful for big data systems. These theories are then validated through expert opinion gathering with 7 experts from the industry. The findings emerged from this study indicates that big data architectures can benefit from many principles and patterns of microservices architecture.
Scenic routing navigation using property valuation
Authors: Rishe Naphtali , Amini M. Hadi , Adjouadi Malek
Published: May 2023

Extensive prior work has provided methods for the optimization of routing based on weights assigned to travel duration, and/or travel cost, and/or the distance traveled. Routing can be in various modalities, such as by car, on foot, by bicycle, via public transit, or by boat. A typical method of routing involves building a graph comprised of street segments, assigning a normalized weighted value to each segment, and then applying the weighted-shorted path algorithm to the graph in order to find the best route. Some users desire that the routing suggestion include consideration pertaining to the scenic-architectural quality of the path. For example, a user may seek a leisure walk via what they might deem as visually attractive architecture. Here, we are proposing a method to quantify such user preferences and scenic quality and to augment the standard routing methods by giving weight to the scenic quality. That is, instead of suggesting merely the time and cost-optimal route, we will find the best route that is tailored towards the user’s scenic quality preferences as an additional criterion to the time and cost. The proposed method uniquely weighs the scenic interest or residential street segments based on the property valuation data.
Sedimentary diversity of the 2011 Tohoku-oki tsunami deposits on the Sendai coastal plain and the northern coast of Fukushima Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Matsumoto Dan , Sawai Yuki , Tanigawa Koichiro , Namegaya Yuichi , Shishikura Masanobu , Kagohara Kyoko , Fujiwara Osamu , Shinozaki Tetsuya
Published: May 2023

This paper documents the sedimentary characteristics of the widespread deposits associated with the 2011 Tohoku-oki tsunami on the lowlands along the Pacific coast of the Sendai and Fukushima regions, northern Japan, and observed tsunami inundation depths. In eight areas of the region, field observation was carried out at a total of 123 locations and sampling at a total of 49 locations. Grain-size analysis and soft X-ray imaging reveal that the tsunami deposits are usually composed of sheetlike sandy beds and generally show landward-thinning and landward-fining trends and a landward increase in mud content, although site-specific distributional patterns are apparent along each transect. These thickness and grain-size patterns indicate a landward decrease in flow capacity. This information on the sedimentology of tsunami deposits and observed inundation depths will assist with the identification of paleo-tsunami deposits in the geological record and provide valuable constraints for mathematical analyses of tsunami hydraulic conditions related to sedimentary characteristics.
Characterization of antioxidant Houttuynia cordata extracts loaded polyurethane nanofibers
Authors: Chen Mei Xi , Haider Md. Kaiser , Kim Ick Soo , Lee Jung-Soon
Published: May 2023

Herein, we analyzed total polyphenol content, total flavonoid content, and the antioxidant activity of the ethanol and distilled water extracted Houttuynia cordata perennial herb. Later, we investigated the possibility of producing Houttuynia cordata extract (HCE) loaded Polyurethane (PU) nanofibers via the electrospinning technique. The analysis confirmed that the total polyphenol, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of the ethanol extracted HCE were higher than the distilled water extracted HCE. Therefore, the ethanol extracted HCE was used to prepare HCE/PU nanofibers by varying concentrations of HCE and PU. The HCE/PU nanofibers showed a mixed pattern of beads and fibers at a PU concentration of 10 wt%. However, at 12 wt% PU concentration, relatively uniform nanofibers with an average diameter of about 200 nm were formed at 1.0% and 1.5 wt% of HCE. The successful incorporation of HCE in PU nanofibrous matrix was confirmed by the presence of its characteristic bands in Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra. The addition of HCE increased the crystallinity, the amount of heat required for pyrolysis, and the thermal stability of HCE/PU nanofibers, which must be credited to the HCE-derived quercitrin and quercetin crystallite solids.
Self-assembled peptide-substance P hydrogels alleviate inflammation and ameliorate the cartilage regeneration in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Kim Sang Jun , Kim Ji Eun , Choe Goeun , Song Da Hyun , Kim Sun Jeong , Kim Tae Hee , Yoo Jin , Kim Soo Hyun , Jung Youngmee
Published: May 2023

Background

Self-assembled peptide (SAP)-substance P (SP) hydrogels can be retained in the joint cavity longer than SP alone, and they can alleviate inflammation and ameliorate cartilage regeneration in knee osteoarthritis (OA). We conducted a preclinical study using diverse animal models of OA and an in vitro study using human synoviocytes and patient-derived synovial fluids to demonstrate the effect of SAP-SP complex on the inflammation and cartilage regeneration.

Methods

Surgical induction OA model was prepared with New Zealand white female rabbits and chemical induction, and naturally occurring OA models were prepared using Dunkin Hartely female guinea pigs. The SAP-SP complex or control (SAP, SP, or saline) was injected into the joint cavities in each model. We performed micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT) analysis, histological evaluation, immunofluorescent analysis, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay and analyzed the recruitment of intrinsic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), macrophage activity, and inflammatory cytokine in each OA model. Human synoviocytes were cultured in synovial fluid extracted from human OA knee joints injected with SAP-SP complexes or other controls. Proliferative capacity and inflammatory cytokine levels were analyzed.

Results

Alleviation of inflammation, inhibition of apoptosis, and enhancement of intrinsic MSCs have been established in the SAP-SP group in diverse animal models. Furthermore, the inflammatory effects on human samples were examined in synoviocytes and synovial fluid from patients with OA. In this study, we observed that SAP-SP showed anti-inflammatory action in OA conditions and increased cartilage regeneration by recruiting intrinsic MSCs, inhibiting progression of OA.

Conclusions

These therapeutic effects have been validated in diverse OA models, including rabbits, Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs, and human synoviocytes. Therefore, we propose that SAP-SP may be an effective injectable therapeutic agent for treating OA.

Graphical Abstract

In this manuscript, we report a preclinical study of novel self-assembled peptide (SAP)-substance P (SP) hydrogels with diverse animal models and human synoviocytes and it displays anti-inflammatory effects, apoptosis inhibition, intrinsic mesenchymal stem cells recruitments and cartilage regeneration
Sovereign default network and currency risk premia
Authors: Yang Lu , Yang Lei , Cui Xue
Published: May 2023

We construct a sovereign default network by employing high-dimensional vector autoregressions obtained by analyzing connectedness in sovereign credit default swap markets. We develop four measures of centrality, namely, degree, betweenness, closeness, and eigenvector centralities, to detect whether network properties drive the currency risk premia. We observe that closeness and betweenness centralities can negatively drive currency excess returns but do not exhibit a relationship with forward spread. Thus, our developed network centralities are independent of an unconditional carry trade risk factor. Based on our findings, we develop a trading strategy by taking a long position on peripheral countries’ currencies and a short position on core countries’ currencies. The aforementioned strategy generates a higher Sharpe ratio than the currency momentum strategy. Our proposed strategy is robust to foreign exchange regimes and the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.
Patient and clinician-reported experiences of using electronic patient reported outcome measures (ePROMs) as part of routine cancer care
Authors: Payne Amelia , Horne Ashley , Bayman Neil , Blackhall Fiona , Bostock Layla , Chan Clara , Coote Joanna , Eaton Marie , Fenemore Jacqueline , Gomes Fabio , Halkyard Emma , Harris Margaret , Lindsay Colin , McEntee Delyth , Neal Hilary , Pemberton Laura , Sheikh Hamid , Woolf David , Price James , Yorke Janelle , Faivre-Finn Corinne
Published: May 2023

Background

Cancer and its treatment can have significant impacts on health status, quality of life and functioning of patients. Direct information from patients regarding these aspects can be collected via electronic platforms in the form of electronic Patient Reported Outcome Measures (ePROMs). Research has shown that the use of ePROMS in cancer care leads to improved communication, better symptom control, prolonged survival and a reduction in hospital admissions and emergency department attendance. Acceptability and feasibility of routine ePROM collection has been reported by both patients and clinicians but to date their use has predominantly been limited to clinical trials. MyChristie-MyHealth is an initiative from a UK comprehensive cancer centre The Christie NHS Foundation Trust which incorporates the regular collection of ePROMs into routine cancer care. This study, carried out as part of a service evaluation, explores patient and clinician experiences of using the MyChristie-MyHealth ePROMs service.

Results

100 patients with lung and head and neck cancers completed a Patient Reported Experience questionnaire. All patients reported that MyChristie-MyHealth was easy to understand and, almost all found it timely to complete and easy to follow. Most patients (82%) reported it improved their communication with their oncology team and helped them to feel more involved with their care (88%). A large proportion of clinicians (8/11) felt ePROMs helped communication with their patients and over half (6/10) felt they led to consultations being more patient focused. Clinicians also felt that the use of ePROMs resulted in patients being more engaged in consultations (7/11) and their cancer care in general (5/11). Five clinicians reported that the use of ePROMs altered their clinical decision making.

Conclusions

Regular ePROMs collection as part of routine cancer care is acceptable to both patients and clinicians. Both patients and clinicians feel their use improved communication and increased the feeling of patient involvement with their care. Further work is needed to explore the experiences of patients that did not complete the ePROMs as part of the initiative and to continue to optimize the service for both patients and clinicians.
Efficacy of diatomaceous earth, and entomopathogenic fungi, Beauveria bassiana, and Trichoderma asperellum in combination and separately, against Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Ozdemir Ismail Oguz
Published: May 2023

Background

Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is one of the most significant pests infesting leguminous crops since it is found in tropical and subtropical climates, as well as in Turkey. The most often utilized methods of managing these insects are fumigants and synthetic insecticides. However, chemical pesticides lead to increased risks for human health, chemical residues, insect resistance, and environmental contamination. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of entomopathogenic fungi [Beauveria bassiana (Bb) and Trichoderma asperellum (Ta)] individually or in combination with diatomaceous earth (DE) against C. maculatus. The fungi Bb and Ta were applied at 1 × 104, 1 × 106 and 1 × 108 spores/kg of chickpea seeds and mixed with 200, 400, 800 mg/kg of DE. Additionally, the progeny production of the insect on chickpea in the different treatments was evaluated after 40 days of exposure.

Results

In all individual treatments, total adult mortality of the insect was accomplished solely by using the highest DE treatment rate (800 mg/kg) after 7 days. The most effective combination that was a mixture at highest application rate of DE/Bb (800 mg/kg of DE + 1 × 108 spores/kg of Bb) caused 100% mortality after 6 days of exposure and had the lowest LT50 (2.97) and LT90 (5.46) values (days). Although other DE/Bb binary combinations caused 100% mortality of C. maculatus 6 days after treatment, their LT50 and LT90 values were lower. Insect mortalities were 100% in all DE/Ta binary combinations on days 7 and 8, and the highest application rate (800 mg/kg of DE + 1 × 108 spores/kg of Ta) of this combination had the lowest LT50 (4.14) and LT90 (6.17) values (days). Individual treatments of DE, Bb, Ta and their binary combinations caused significant reduction in progeny production after 40 days of treatment compared with progeny production in the control of C. maculatus. The highest progeny production (88.9%) was observed at the highest treatment rate of DE/Bb combinations (800 mg/kg of DE + 1 × 108 spores/kg of BB).

Conclusions

The treatments used in combination of Bb or Ta with DE resulted in increased insecticidal effectiveness against C. maculatus. These natural agents caused considerable decreasing of progeny production of the pest. Even with reduced application rates, the agents with a promising potential against the pest showed acceptable results in binary combinations.
Quantitative analysis of cell-free plasma DNA as a prognostic biomarker in acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Tiwari Shivam , Yadav Lokendra Bahadur , Minocha Priyanka , Vajpeyee Manisha , Vajpeyee Atulabh
Published: May 2023

Background

Stroke has become a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and despite the introduction of new screening programs, therapies, and monitoring technologies, there is still a need to develop more useful biochemical tests to monitor treatment response and inform clinical decision-making. Cell-free DNA released from damaged neurons in stroke patients may be useful in assessing stroke prognosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of cell-free DNA and a highly sensitive blood biomarker in acute ischemic stroke. 188 patients with acute ischemic stroke were recruited for the study. The level of cell-free DNA in plasma was estimated using a real-time PCR assay for the β-globin gene (Qiagen-Rotor-Gene Q MDX, Germany). Clinical assessment was performed with the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) at the time of admission. After a period of three months from the onset of stroke, (mRS) scores were estimated using the modified Rankin scale.

Results

Elevated levels of cell-free DNA were found in patients with higher NIHSS admission scores and mRS 3-month scores (p < 0.05). The regression analysis revealed that the markers are associated with an unfavorable outcome in comparison to other stroke risk factors (R2 = 0.224). Stroke outcome was relatively better in patients with a cell-free DNA level < 10,000 kilogenome equivalents/L (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Measurement of total cell-free DNA levels is a simpler and less-expensive biomarker suggesting potential clinical application of blood-based test. Cell-free DNA can contribute to the clinical evaluation and optimal management of ischemic stroke patients. This biomarker seems to have the potential to predict the long-term prognosis of acute ischemic stroke.
Effect of different oils and sugar syrups on the properties of tray kadayif (traditional Turkish dessert)
Authors: Başar Burak , Boz Hüseyin
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of different oils and sugar syrups on the sensory and textural properties of traditional Turkish dessert the tray kadayif. The textural parameters of the tray kadayif samples were significantly (P < 0.01) affected by the replacement of sunflower oil and hazelnut oil with butter. The cutting hardness values of the tray kadayif samples increased with the increase in the amount of sunflower oil added to the formulations. The highest hardness values were achieved in formulations without butter in terms of both cutting hardness and fork hardness. The stickiness values reached the highest level in formulations containing 50% sunflower oil, 50% butter and 0% hazelnut oil. When the sugar syrups were compared, the stickiness values of the samples with sucrose syrup were found to be higher than the samples with glucose syrup. As a result of the sensory analysis conducted, though all the formulations were accepted by panelists, the highest score from the panelists was received by the formulations containing 75% butter and 25% oil (sunflower and hazelnut oil). It was also determined that the tray kadayif samples prepared with sucrose syrup had higher scores than the samples prepared with glucose syrup in terms of sensory properties.
Social isolation among adolescents and its association with depression symptoms
Authors: Alsadoun Danah A. , Alotaibi Haneen S. , Alanazi Amwaj I. , Almohsen Leena A. , Almarhoum Njoud N. , Mahboub Samira
Published: May 2023

Background

Social isolation can be defined as the absence of social interactions, contacts, and relationships with family, friends, and neighbors. According to some studies, social isolation was associated with depressive symptoms. At least one out of every five teenagers suffer from a diagnosable mental health problem that impairs their function. Saudi Arabia has a significant adolescent population; however, there are few studies conducted in Saudi Arabia to assess social isolation and its psychological impact among adolescents. This research is intended to study the prevalence of social isolation among adolescents in Riyadh and its association with depression symptoms.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 483 adolescents living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. An online self-administered questionnaire was used, and it was composed of three sections which are sociodemographic characteristics, assessment of social isolation, and assessment of depression symptoms.

Results

The study reported the prevalence of social isolation among adolescents was 10.14%. The prevalence of depression symptoms among adolescents was high (31.68%). There was a significant association between social isolation and symptoms of depression among the studied sample (χ2 = 12.3, p = 0.002). It was found that being a male, living with both parents, and having low income are significant predictors of social isolation among adolescents; with r2 = 0.08 and p-value < .0001. It was also found that low-income level had a more impact on social isolation among adolescents than other factors (estimate = 1.6).

Conclusions

A total of 10% of adolescents in Riyadh are socially isolated. There is a significant association between social isolation and symptoms of depression among the studied adolescents. Symptoms of depression can be predicted by social isolation. 

Recommendations

The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia should work together to conduct educational intervention programs for adolescents about mental health, the importance of social interaction, and the drawbacks of social isolation. These topics should also be involved in the curriculum of secondary schools.
Practical Management of Richter Transformation in 2023 and Beyond
Authors: Ryan Christine E. , Davids Matthew S.
Published: May 2023

While the past decade has witnessed unprecedented progress for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), outcomes for patients with Richter transformation (RT) remain dismal. Multiagent chemoimmunotherapy regimens, such as rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone, are commonly used, although outcomes are far poorer than observed with the same regimens used in de novo diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The revolutionary targeted therapies approved for CLL, such as inhibitors of Bruton tyrosine kinase and B-cell leukemia/lymphoma-2, have limited activity in RT as monotherapy, and initial promising activity of checkpoint blockade antibodies was also eventually found to be ineffective as monotherapy for most patients. Over the past few years, as outcomes for patients with CLL improved, there has been a growing focus of the research community on improving our biological understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of RT and on translating these new insights into rational combination strategies that are poised to improve therapeutic outcomes. Here, we present a brief overview of the biology and diagnosis of RT, as well as prognostic considerations, before providing a summary of the data supporting various therapies that have been recently studied in RT. We then turn our attention to the horizon and describe several of the promising novel approaches under investigation to treat this challenging disease.
Evolving Management of Stage IV Melanoma
Authors: Switzer Benjamin , Piperno-Neumann Sophie , Lyon James , Buchbinder Elizabeth , Puzanov Igor
Published: May 2023

Significant advancements have been made in the treatment of advanced melanoma with the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors, novel immunotherapies, and BRAF/MEK-targeted therapies with numerous frontline treatment options. However, there remains suboptimal evidence to guide treatment decisions in many patients. These include patients with newly diagnosed disease, immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)–resistant/ICI-refractory disease, CNS metastases, history of autoimmune disease, and/or immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Uveal melanoma (UM) is a rare melanoma associated with a poor prognosis in the metastatic setting. Systemic treatments, including checkpoint inhibitors, failed to demonstrate any survival benefit. Tebentafusp, a bispecific molecule, is the first treatment to improve overall survival (OS) in patients with HLA A*02:01–positive metastatic UM.
Training General Practitioners in Oncology: Lessons Learned From a Cross-Sectional Survey of GPOs in Canada
Authors: Gyawali Bishal , Carson Laura Mae , Shuel Sian , Wilkinson Anna Nathalie , Ostic Heather , Savage Colleen , Berry Scott
Published: May 2023

PURPOSE

Many countries face a significant shortage of medical oncologists. To mitigate this problem, some countries, including Canada, have established training programs for general practitioners in oncology (GPOs), which train family physicians (FPs) in the fundamentals of cancer care. This type of GPO training model may be useful in other countries facing similar challenges. Therefore, Canadian GPOs were surveyed to learn from their experiences and inform the development of similar programs in other countries.

METHODS

A survey was designed and administered to Canadian GPOs to understand the methods and outcomes of GPO training and practice in the Canadian context. The survey was active from July 2021 to April 2022. Participants were recruited through personal and provincial networks and an email list provided by the Canadian GPO network.

RESULTS

The survey received 37 responses for an estimated response rate of 18%. Although only 38% of respondents indicated that family medicine training sufficiently prepared them to care for patients with cancer, 90% indicated that GPO training did. Clinics with oncologists were found to be the most effective mode of learning, followed by small group learning and online education. Critical knowledge domains and skills most relevant for GPO training were identified as the treatment of side effects, symptom management, palliative care, and breaking bad news.

CONCLUSION

Participants in this survey felt that a dedicated GPO training program offered value beyond family medicine residency in preparing providers to adequately care for patients with cancer. GPO training can be done effectively through virtual and hybrid content delivery. Critical knowledge domains and skills identified as the most important in this survey may be valuable for other groups and nations implementing similar training programs to increase their oncology workforce.
In Praise of Misreading (On Contingency and Creativity)
Authors: Rodowick D. N.
Published: May 2023

This article argues in favor of misreading as a creative act. There is something involuntary in every creative act, and this involuntariness is itself a force of creation that arrives at the threshold of every act of repetition in and through time. Creativity is always shaped by unexpected encounters with ideas, arguments, and artworks. My defense of misreading as a creative act, however, asks for a broader description of contingency that includes accidents, misprisions, and fortuitous faults in memory generating flights of fancy and unbidden and unexpected imaginative analogies. These erosions of intention by internal or external events are one way of anticipating the freedom for new creation. Before it is expressed in actions, creativity arises in imagination, and to those open to it, imagination is fed by both the inner contingencies arising in memory and imagination and the outer contingencies of surprise encounters with ideas, texts, and other creative works.
Optical measurement of gating pore currents in hypokalemic periodic paralysis model cells
Authors: Kubota Tomoya , Takahashi Satoe , Yamamoto Risa , Sato Ruka , Miyanooto Aya , Yamamoto Reina , Yamauchi Kosuke , Homma Kazuaki , Takahashi Masanori P.
Published: May 2023

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP) is a rare genetic disease associated with mutations in CACNA1S or SCN4A encoding the voltage-gated Ca2+ channel Cav1.1 or the voltage-gated Na+ channel Nav1.4, respectively. Most HypoPP-associated missense changes occur at the arginine residues within the voltage-sensing domain (VSD) of these channels. It is established that such mutations destroy the hydrophobic seal that separates external fluid and the internal cytosolic crevices, resulting in the generation of aberrant leak currents called gating pore currents. Presently, the gating pore currents are thought to underlie HypoPP. Here, based on HEK293T cells and by using the Sleeping Beauty transposon system, we generated HypoPP-model cell lines that co-express the mouse inward-rectifier K+ channel (mKir2.1) and HypoPP2-associated Nav1.4 channel. Whole-cell patch-clamp measurements confirmed that mKir2.1 successfully hyperpolarizes the membrane potential to levels comparable to those of myofibers, and that some Nav1.4 variants induce notable proton-based gating pore currents. Importantly, we succeeded in fluorometrically measuring the gating pore currents in these variants by using a ratiometric pH indicator. Our optical method provides a potential in vitro platform for high-throughput drug screening, not only for HypoPP but also for other channelopathies caused by VSD mutations.
Constraints on City and Neighborhood Growth: The Central Role of Housing Supply
Authors: Baum-Snow Nathaniel
Published: May 2023

The US urban population increased by almost 50 percent between 1980 and 2020, with this growth heavily concentrated in the Sun Belt and at the fringes of metropolitan areas. This paper considers the role of housing supply in shaping the growth of cities and neighborhoods. Housing supply constraints have meant that demand growth has increasingly manifested as price growth rather than as increases in housing units or population in larger and denser metropolitan areas and neighborhoods. New housing is provided at increasingly higher cost in areas that have higher intensity of existing development and more restrictive regulatory environments. Both forces have strengthened over time, making quantity supplied less responsive to growing demand, driving housing price growth in many areas, and pushing housing quantity growth further out into urban fringes. As a result of such pressures on the cost of new construction, the US has recently experienced more rapid price growth and a declining influence of new construction on the housing stock.