bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive associations between different circulating trans fatty acids (TFAs) and urinary albumin excretion among adults in the U.S.: a population-based study
Authors: Zhou Yuancheng , Wei Chengcheng , Gao Xincheng , Sun Yi , Han Xiaomin
Published: September 2023

Background

It is well established that the consumption of trans-fatty acids (TFAs) can increase the incidence of total mortality, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. However, there are still no demographic studies on the effects of circulating TFA isoforms on the albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR), an early marker of chronic kidney disease. Our goal was to explore the possible relationships between TFAs and ACR.

Methods

In this study, complete TFAs and urinary ACR data were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2009–2010 and 1999–2000 cycles). The independent linear relationships between different circulating TFA isoforms and the ACR were examined by performing multivariable linear regression models. Machine learning was used to analyze the contribution of the different TFA isoforms to the ACR. To assess the nonlinearity of the relationship, smooth curve fitting and an analysis of threshold effect were performed, and a stratified analysis was conducted to identify possible susceptible populations.

Results

Our analysis included a total of 3785 individuals. Elaidic acid, linolelaidic acid, and sum TFAs were shown to be positively associated with the ACR after full adjustment by weighted multivariable regression analysis. In the subgroup analysis, the positive associations were maintained in participants with hypertension and without diabetes. In the XGBoost model of the ACR, Sum TFAs were found to be the most crucial factor. In addition, smooth curve fitting showed that there was a nonlinear relationship between the different TFAs and the ACR, and there was a saturation point.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that TFA isoforms were positively and independently correlated with urinary albumin excretion, especially in participants with hypertension and without diabetes. This suggested that reducing trans fatty acid intake may reduce the risk of renal events.
Racial disparities in use of syringe service programs in King County, WA: a comparison of two cross-sectional surveys
Authors: Salow Katheryn , Jack Helen E. , Tinsley Joe , Banta-Green Caleb J. , Kingston Susan , Iles-Shih Matthew , Tsui Judith I. , Glick Sara
Published: September 2023

Background

Syringe service programs (SSPs) provide tools to people who inject drugs (PWID) to prevent overdose, reduce the risk of HIV and HCV infection, and reduce injection frequency. While effective, previous research suggests that SSPs may not adequately reach some marginalized or particularly vulnerable subpopulations of PWID.

Methods

To identify disparities in SSP use, data from two cross-sectional surveys conducted in King County, Washington were compared: a survey of SSP clients and a community survey of PWID in King County. It was hypothesized that Black PWID, women, and gender minorities would be underrepresented in the SSP survey relative to the general population of PWID.

Results

SSP clients identified as White at a significantly higher rate than the community sample of PWID (p = 0.030). Black (p < 0.001), American Indian/Alaska Native (p < 0.001), Latinx/Hispanic (p = 0.009), and Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander PWID (p = 0.034) were underrepresented in the SSP client survey. The gender of SSP clients was similar to the distribution seen in the community sample of PWID (p = 0.483).

Conclusions

Black PWID are underrepresented in Seattle-area SSPs, consistent with studies in other large US cities. Both nationally and in Seattle, overdose deaths have been increasing among Black PWID, and harm reduction strategies are vital to reversing this trend. SSPs should explore and test ways to be more accessible to minority populations.
The effect of hepatitis B virus on the risk of pregnancy outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Afraie Maryam , Moradi Ghobad , Zamani Kamran , Azami Mobin , Moradi Yousef
Published: September 2023

Background

The effect of HBV on neonatal and maternal outcomes can create a basis for more accurate clinical decision-making. So, the aim of this meta-analysis is to detrmine the effect of chronic hepatitis B virus on the risk of pregnancy outcomes by combining cohort studies.

Methods

International databases in this meta-analysis included the Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), SPORT Discuss via the EBSCO interface, PubMed (Medline), Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, which were searched up to April 2023. All cohort studies reporting the risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were included in the study. The quality assessment was done based on the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS).

Results

Finally, thirty-five cohort studies were selected for meta-analysis. Outcomes of interest included pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, abortion, preterm birth, infant death, and other related outcomes. Results showed that the pooled RR for incident gestational diabetes in pregnant women with choronic hepatitis B infection was 1.16 (RR: 1.16; 95% CI 1.13–1.18; I-square: 92.89%; P value: 0.00). Similarly, the association between the presence of hepatitis B infection in pregnant women and the occurrence of pre-eclampsia was 1.10 (RR: 1.10; 95% CI 1.04–1.16; I-square: 92.06%; P value: 0.00). The risk of preterm delivery in pregnant women with hepatitis B infection was 1.17 times that of pregnant women without hepatitis B infection (RR: 1.17; 95% CI 1.14–1.20; I-squared: 94.32%; P value: 0.00).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis found that hepatitis B infection during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, preterm delivery, pre-eclampsia, and eclampsia. However, confirmation of this association, as well as the specific biological pathways involved in the association between HBV infection and pregnancy outcomes, requires further investigation.
Disparities in occupational health services: an international comparative study
Authors: Krakov Ayala Olga , Zack Oren , Sagiv Oren Y. , Slodownik Dan , Raanan Rachel , Alperovitch-Najenson Deborah , Rinsky‑Halivni Lilah , Moshe Shlomo
Published: September 2023

Background

Occupational Health Services (OHS) are comprehensive, multidisciplinary services supplied by various trained workers, including occupational physicians (OP), whose specialty is focused on workers’ health.

Aims

Our study questions are whether the OP/worker ratio may reflect the scope and availability of OHS.

Methods

This comparative study, conducted on globally different OHS, was based on literature analysis of peer-reviewed articles published in journals covering topics of occupational medicine and public health that addressed parameters on the type and scope of OHS provision.

Results

We described the number of OP/worker ratio, and the correlation to economic parameters (Gross domestic product—GDP, health expenditure, Gini Index—GI) by country. We found that among countries with a GDP per capita higher than US$30,000, only three (US, South Korea and Israel) had a very low OP/worker ratio (about 1:50,000 compared to 1:5,000 in other countries). Looking at all the countries together, there was a statistically significant negative correlation between health expenditure percentage of GDP per capita and OP/worker ratio (rs = -0.54, p = 0.01) and a significant positive correlation between GI and OP/worker ratio (rs = 0.47, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

The lesser the percentage of health expenditure of GDP and the subsequent greater general inequality as reflected by the GI, the lower the OP/worker ratio. The data collected in our comparative study show that the OP/worker ratio is a parameter both easy to define and obtain which best represents the status and disparity of OHS in each country.
Adipose-derived stem cell exosome NFIC improves diabetic foot ulcers by regulating miR-204-3p/HIPK2
Authors: Huang Huimin , Zhu Wufei , Huang Zongwei , Zhao Dengze , Cao Lu , Gao Xian
Published: September 2023

Background

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a serious complication of diabetes that lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Recent studies reported that exosomes secreted by human adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) might alleviate DFU development. However, the molecular mechanism of ADSCs-derived exosomes in DFU is far from being addressed.

Methods

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were induced by high-glucose (HG), which were treated with exosomes derived from nuclear factor I/C (NFIC)-modified ADSCs. MicroRNA-204-3p (miR-204-3p), homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2), and NFIC were determined using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and angiogenesis were assessed using cell counting kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry, wound healing, and tube formation assays. Binding between miR-204-3p and NFIC or HIPK2 was predicted using bioinformatics tools and validated using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. HIPK2, NFIC, CD81, and CD63 protein levels were measured using western blot. Exosomes were identified by a transmission electron microscope and nanoparticle tracking analysis.

Results

miR-204-3p and NFIC were reduced, and HIPK2 was enhanced in DFU patients and HG-treated HUVECs. miR-204-3p overexpression might abolish HG-mediated HUVEC proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and angiogenesis in vitro. Furthermore, HIPK2 acted as a target of miR-204-3p. Meanwhile, NFIC was an upstream transcription factor that might bind to the miR-204-3p promoter and improve its expression. NFIC-exosome from ADSCs might regulate HG-triggered HUVEC injury through miR-204-3p-dependent inhibition of HIPK2.

Conclusion

Exosomal NFIC silencing-loaded ADSC sheet modulates miR-204-3p/HIPK2 axis to suppress HG-induced HUVEC proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis, providing a stem cell-based treatment strategy for DFU.
Amyloid fibril proteomics of AD brains reveals modifiers of aggregation and toxicity
Authors: Upadhyay Arun , Chhangani Deepak , Rao Nalini R. , Kofler Julia , Vassar Robert , Rincon-Limas Diego E. , Savas Jeffrey N.
Published: September 2023

Background

The accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides in fibrils is prerequisite for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our understanding of the proteins that promote Aβ fibril formation and mediate neurotoxicity has been limited due to technical challenges in isolating pure amyloid fibrils from brain extracts.

Methods

To investigate how amyloid fibrils form and cause neurotoxicity in AD brain, we developed a robust biochemical strategy. We benchmarked the success of our purifications using electron microscopy, amyloid dyes, and a large panel of Aβ immunoassays. Tandem mass-spectrometry based proteomic analysis workflows provided quantitative measures of the amyloid fibril proteome. These methods allowed us to compare amyloid fibril composition from human AD brains, three amyloid mouse models, transgenic Aβ42 flies, and Aβ42 seeded cultured neurons.

Results

Amyloid fibrils are primarily composed by Aβ42 and unexpectedly harbor Aβ38 but generally lack Aβ40 peptides. Multidimensional quantitative proteomics allowed us to redefine the fibril proteome by identifying 20 new amyloid-associated proteins. Notably, we confirmed 57 previously reported plaque-associated proteins. We validated a panel of these proteins as bona fide amyloid-interacting proteins using antibodies and orthogonal proteomic analysis. One metal-binding chaperone metallothionein-3 is tightly associated with amyloid fibrils and modulates fibril formation in vitro. Lastly, we used a transgenic Aβ42 fly model to test if knock down or over-expression of fibril-interacting gene homologues modifies neurotoxicity. Here, we could functionally validate 20 genes as modifiers of Aβ42 toxicity in vivo.

Conclusions

These discoveries and subsequent confirmation indicate that fibril-associated proteins play a key role in amyloid formation and AD pathology.
Human parvovirus B19 infection in malignant and benign tissue specimens of different head and neck anatomical subsites
Authors: Abuei Haniyeh , Namdari Sepide , Pakdel Tahereh , Pakdel Fatemeh , Andishe-Tadbir Azadeh , Behzad-Behbahani Abbas , Ashraf Mohammad J. , Alavi Parnian , Farhadi Ali
Published: September 2023

Background

The role of human parvovirus B19 (B19V) infection in malignant and benign lesions such as head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) and oral mucocele lesions has not been established. Herein, we examined, for the first time, the presence of B19V in HNSCCs from Iranian subjects.

Methods

One hundred and eight HNSCC specimens were analyzed for the presence of B19V using nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) and TaqMan quantitative PCR assays. Immunohistochemistry procedures were performed to evaluate the expression of B19V VP1/VP2 proteins, p16INK4a, and NF-κB in tumor tissues and their adjacent non-tumor tissues. In addition, 40 oral mucocele, 30 oral buccal mucosa swabs, and 30 nasopharyngeal swabs obtained from healthy adults were analyzed as controls.

Results

B19V DNA was detected in 36.1% of HNSCCs. Further, 23.3% of HNSCC specimens showed immunoreactivity against B19V VP1/VP2 proteins. There was a significant difference in the frequency of B19V DNA-positive cases between the patient and control groups (p < 0.0001). Moreover, comparing tumoral tissues and their adjacent non-tumor tissues in terms of immunoreactivity against B19V structural proteins, a significant association was found between tumor tissues and B19V infection (p < 0.0001). Finally, investigating the simultaneous presence of B19V and high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV) DNA, we found a significant association between these two viral infections in HNSCCs (p = 0.031).

Conclusions

To sum up, B19V was frequently present in HNSCC tissues of Iranian patients but mostly absent in the adjacent non-tumor tissues as well as oral mucocele lesions, buccal, and nasopharyngeal swabs of healthy subjects. HPV possibly contributes to B19V persistence in HNSCC tissues. Additional research is required to investigate potential etiological or cofactor roles of B19V in the development of HNSCCs.
Short-term cognitive effects of repeated-dose esketamine in adolescents with major depressive disorder and suicidal ideation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lan Xiaofeng , Wang Chengyu , Zhang Fan , Liu Haiyan , Li Weicheng , Ye Yanxiang , Hu Zhibo , Mai Siming , Ning Yuping , Zhou Yanling
Published: September 2023

Background

Ketamine and its enantiomer have rapid and robust effects on depressive symptom and suicidal ideation. Little is known about their cognitive effects in adolescents. We aimed to evaluate the short-term effect of esketamine on cognition in adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD) and suicidal ideation.

Method

In this randomized-controlled trial, 51 participants aged 13–18 with MDD and suicidal ideation received three intravenous infusions of either esketamine (0.25 mg/kg) or midazolam (0.02 mg/kg). Four dimensions of the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB), including processing speed, working memory, verbal learning and visual learning, were assessed at Days 0, 6 and 12.

Results

In the linear mixed model, a significant time main effect (F = 12.803, P < 0.001), drug main effect (F = 6.607, P = 0.013), and interaction effect (F = 3.315, P = 0.041) was found in processing speed. Other dimensions including working memory and verbal learning showed significant time main effect (all P < 0.05), but no significant drug or interaction effect (all P > 0.05). Esketamine group showed improvement in processing speed from baseline to Days 6 and 12, and working memory from baseline to Day 12 (all P < 0.05). The generalized estimation equation showed no significant association between baseline cognition and antidepressant or antisuicidal effect (both P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The present study suggested that three-dose subanesthetic esketamine infusions did not harm cognition among adolescents with MDD and suicidal ideation. Instead, esketamine may be associated with improvement in processing speed.

Trial registration: This trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR2000041232).
The causal association between systemic inflammatory regulators and primary ovarian insufficiency: a bidirectional mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Jiahui , Zhao Xia , Luo Rong , Xia Di , Liu Yi , Shen Tao , Liang Yuanjiao
Published: September 2023

Background

Recent studies have suggested a potential link between systemic inflammatory regulators and primary ovarian insufficiency (POI); however, a causal relationship between them remains unclear. In this study, we explored the causal link between systemic inflammatory regulators and POI risk using a bidirectional, two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) strategy.

Results

This approach utilized the most extensive genome-wide association study involving 41 systemic inflammatory regulators in a sample of 8,293 Finnish individuals and POI data from the FinnGen consortium (254 cases vs. 118,228 controls). The inverse variance weighting approach served as a primary MR method, and four additional MR techniques (Maximum Likelihood, MR-Egger, Weighted Median, and constrained maximum likelihood and model averaging Bayesian information criterion ) were applied to support and validate results. Cochran’s Q statistics were used to assess the heterogeneity of instrumental variables, whereas the MR-Egger and MR Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier tests detected horizontal pleiotropy. The MR Steiger test evaluated the strength of a causal association. Our findings suggest that lower levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (odds ratio [OR] = 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54–0.99, P = 0.046) and interleukin-10 (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.33–0.85, P = 0.021) are associated with an increased risk of POI. Reverse MR analysis revealed no significant effect of POI on the expression of these 41 systemic inflammatory regulators. No notable heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy was observed in the instrumental variables.

Conclusions

This study revealed a causal association between 41 systemic inflammatory regulators and POI, demonstrating that decreased levels of VEGF and IL-10 are linked to an elevated risk of POI. Further investigations are necessary to assess the potential of these biomarkers as early predictors, preventive strategies, and therapeutic targets for POI.
Theoretical study of interaction between temozolomide anticancer drug and hydroxyethyl carboxymethyl cellulose nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery by DFT quantum mechanical calculation
Authors: Shahi Masoumeh , Azarakhshi Fatemeh
Published: September 2023

In this article for the first time the quantum calculations of 3-methyl-4-oxoimidazo[5,1-d][1,2,3,5]tetrazine-8-carboxamide (Temozolomide) in HCM-Cellulose Substrate are evaluated using the B3LYP/6-31G level of theory. The non-bonded interaction effects of the molecule Temozolomide, HCM-Cellulose on the electronic properties, chemical shift tensors and natural charge have also been detected. Natural bond orbital analysis (NBO) suggests that Temozolomide as an electron donor and HCM-Cellulose acted as an electron acceptor in the Temozolomide/HCM-Cellulose complex. The electronic spectra of the Temozolomide drug and Temozolomide/HCM-Cellulose complex in were calculated by Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) for the investigation of the adsorption effect of the Temozolomide drug over HCM-Cellulose on maximum wavelength. As a result, the feasibility of using HCM-Cellulose to deliver Temozolomide to diseased cells has been established.
2020-2021 field seasons of Maize GxE project within the Genomes to Fields Initiative
Authors: Lima Dayane Cristina , Aviles Alejandro Castro , Alpers Ryan Timothy , Perkins Alden , Schoemaker Dylan L , Costa Martin , Michel Kathryn J. , Kaeppler Shawn , Ertl David , Romay Maria Cinta , Gage Joseph L. , Holland James , Beissinger Timothy , Bohn Martin , Buckler Edward , Edwards Jode , Flint-Garcia Sherry , Gore Michael A. , Hirsch Candice N. , Knoll Joseph E. , McKay John , Minyo Richard , Murray Seth C. , Schnable James , Sekhon Rajandeep S. , Singh Maninder P. , Sparks Erin E. , Thomison Peter , Thompson Addie , Tuinstra Mitchell , Wallace Jason , Washburn Jacob D. , Weldekidan Teclemariam , Xu Wenwei , de Leon Natalia
Published: September 2023

Objectives

This release note describes the Maize GxE project datasets within the Genomes to Fields (G2F) Initiative. The Maize GxE project aims to understand genotype by environment (GxE) interactions and use the information collected to improve resource allocation efficiency and increase genotype predictability and stability, particularly in scenarios of variable environmental patterns. Hybrids and inbreds are evaluated across multiple environments and phenotypic, genotypic, environmental, and metadata information are made publicly available.

Data description

The datasets include phenotypic data of the hybrids and inbreds evaluated in 30 locations across the US and one location in Germany in 2020 and 2021, soil and climatic measurements and metadata information for all environments (combination of year and location), ReadMe, and description files for each data type. A set of common hybrids is present in each environment to connect with previous evaluations. Each environment had a collaborator responsible for collecting and submitting the data, the GxE coordination team combined all the collected information and removed obvious erroneous data. Collaborators received the combined data to use, verify and declare that the data generated in their own environments was accurate. Combined data is released to the public with minimal filtering to maintain fidelity to the original data.
Rubella virus genotype 2B endemicity and related utility of serum-based molecular characterization in Uganda
Authors: Tushabe Phionah , Bakamutumaho Barnabas , Eliku James Peter , Birungi Molly , Aine Francis , Namuwulya Prossy , Bukenya Henry , Ampeire Immaculate , Kisakye Annet , Byabamazima Charles R. , Bwogi Josephine
Published: September 2023

There are 13 globally recognized rubella virus genotypes of which only 2 (1E and 2B) have been detected recently. The largest percentage of all reported rubella virus sequences come from China and Japan with Africa reporting limited data. In a bid to address the lack of rubella genotype data in Uganda and the World Health Organization Africa region, we sought to characterize rubella viruses retrospectively using sera collected from suspected measles patients that turned out rubella IgM positive.

Seven sequences belonging to genotype 2B sub-lineage 2B-L2c were obtained. These sequences clustered with other genotype 2B sequences previously reported from Uganda. None of the other genotypes (1E and 1G) reported from Uganda in the earlier years were detected. In addition, none of the sequences were obtained after the introduction of the measles-rubella containing vaccine. The above highlight the need for continuous rubella virological surveillance to confirm interruption of endemic rubella genotype circulation.
Global research trends of the studies on Murraya koenigii (L.) spreng: a Scopus-based comprehensive bibliometric investigation (1965–2023)
Authors: Abdelwahab Siddig Ibrahim , Taha Manal Mohamed Elhassan
Published: September 2023

Background

Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng. has several well-established nutritional and therapeutic applications. Following our desire to investigate the global and scientific community's knowledge of medicinal plants, this study was intended to examine the evolution of knowledge related to M. Koenigii studies. The primary purpose of this paper is to clarify the status of these studies, investigate their methods, findings, and trends, and define their significance within the current research landscape.

Results

To achieve these goals, bibliometric analysis was conducted, retrieving, and analyzing 934 original articles published between 1965 and 2023 based on Scopus Dataset results. Data were exported as CVS (comma-separated values) and BibTex files and analyzed using Bibliometrix and VOSviewer software. Articles from 502 sources have been identified, averaging 21.8 citations per document. The research in this plant has had exponential growth (R2 = 0.77). International co-authorship is 13.08%. India and Malaysia are the top publishing countries. Debajo, A.C. (Nigeria), Phatak,R.S. (India), and Sukari,M.A. (Malaysia) are the most productive authors. The top source is the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. "Green synthesis," "nanoparticles," "oxidative stress," "Asian citrus psyllid," "apoptosis," "antimicrobial," "anticancer," "Chromatographic profile," "bioactive compounds," and "alkaloids" are strongly related to the current trends in M. Koenigii research. Regarding the specialized topics, M. Koenigii's study concentrated on using this plant as an antioxidant agent in manufacturing and biological systems. Dynamic subjects like chromatographic profiles, essential oils, and Asian citrus psyllids were included in the motor theme.

Conclusions

The current study used bibliometric techniques to evaluate research on M. Koenigii and identify trends and potential future research hot spots.
A rare cause of neonatal feeding intolerance: congenital segmental intestinal dilatation—a case report
Authors: Tan Hooi Hooi , Tan Shung Ken , Bt Abd. Halim Roslina , Md Yusof Md Yusri , Puspanathan Pavitratha , Teoh Pak Inn
Published: September 2023

Background

Congenital segmental intestinal dilatation (CSID) is a rare cause of neonatal bowel obstruction. Patients can present in the early newborn period with feeding intolerance and abdominal distension. Diagnosis is challenging due to its rarity and non-specific clinical and radiological findings in a well neonate. Surgical excision remains the mainstay treatment for this disease.

Case presentation

We report a case of a newborn male with congenital segmental ileal dilatation, who presented with abdominal distension and feeding intolerance. He was born preterm at 32 weeks and was treated for presumed sepsis due to a premature rupture of the membrane. The patient developed persistent abdominal distension upon initiation of feedings with large amount of gastric aspirates. Otherwise, there was no delay in the passage of meconium. Serial abdominal radiographs showed persistent focal bowel dilatation on the right side. He was initially diagnosed with small bowel atresia. Ultrasound abdomen and lower gastrointestinal contrasted study showed focal ileal dilatation with no evidence of pneumoperitoneum. Intraoperative findings revealed a segmental ileal dilatation with no evidence of mechanical obstruction. The abnormal dilated bowel was excised and sent for histopathological examination. He recovered well after surgery.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of CSID can be challenging due to its clinical polymorphism and non-specific radiological findings. CSID should be suspected in neonates with feeding intolerance and focal intestinal dilatation without clinical features of sepsis, peritonitis, or mechanical obstruction. Surgical excision is curative with a good outcome.
Quantification of pulmonary opacities using artificial intelligence in chest CT scans during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: validation and prognostic assessment
Authors: Montoro Fernando Sánchez , Gordo María Luz Parra , Tascón Áurea Díez , de Gracia Milagros Martí , Velez Silvia Ossaba , Fernández Susana Fernández , Vallano Rebeca Gil , Acosta Velásquez Kevin Stephen
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To assess whether the analysis of pulmonary opacities on chest CT scans by AI-RAD Companion, an artificial intelligence (AI) software, has any prognostic value.

Background

In December 2019, a new coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2 emerged in Wuhan, China, causing a global pandemic known as COVID-19. The disease initially presents with flu-like symptoms but can progress to severe respiratory distress, organ failure, and high mortality rates. The overwhelming influx of patients strained Emergency Rooms worldwide. To assist in diagnosing and categorizing pneumonia, AI algorithms using deep learning and convolutional neural networks were introduced. However, there is limited research on how applicable these algorithms are in the Emergency Room setting, and their practicality remains uncertain due to most studies focusing on COVID-19-positive patients only.

Methods

Our study has an observational, analytical, and longitudinal design. The sample consisted of patients who visited our emergency room from August 5, 2021, to September 9, 2021, were suspected of having COVID-19 pneumonia, and underwent a chest CT scan. They were categorized into COVID-19 negative and positive groups based on PCR confirmation. Lung opacities were evaluated separately by a team of radiologists and a commercial AI software called AI-Rad Companion (by Siemens Healthineers). After 5 months we gathered clinical data, such as hospital admission, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, death, and hospital stay.

Results

The final sample included 304 patients (144 females, 160 males) with a mean age of 68 ± 19 std. Among them, 129 tested negative for COVID-19 and 175 tested positive. We used AI-generated opacity quantification, compared to radiologists' reports, to create receiver operating characteristic curves. The area under the curve ranged from 0.8 to 0.9 with a 95% confidence interval. We then adjusted opacity tests to a sensitivity cut-off of 95%. We found a significant association between these opacity tests and hospital admission and ICU admission (Chi-Squared, P < 0.05), as well as between the percentage of lung opacities and length of hospital stay (Spearman's rho 0.53–0.54, P < 0.05) in both groups.

Conclusions

During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, AI-based opacity tests demonstrated an association with certain prognostic markers in patients with suspected COVID-19 pneumonia, regardless of whether a PCR-confirmed coronavirus infection was ultimately detected.
hMSCs treatment attenuates murine herpesvirus-68 (MHV-68) pneumonia through altering innate immune response via ROS/NLRP3 signaling pathway
Authors: Qin Aiping , Wang Xiao-juan , Fu Jijun , Shen Ao , Huang Xiaotao , Chen Zhida , Wu Huiting , Jiang Yu , Wang Qian , Chen Fei , Xiang Andy Peng , Yu Xiyong
Published: September 2023

Immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable to viral infections and reactivation, especially endogenous herpes viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of oncogenic gamma-herpesviruses, which are commonly linked to pneumonia and consequently significant morbidity and mortality. In the study of human and animal oncogenic gammaherpesviruses, the murine gamma-herpesviruses-68 (MHV-68) model has been applied, as it can induce pneumonia in immunocompromised mice. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment has demonstrated therapeutic potential for pneumonia, as well as other forms of acute lung injury, in preclinical models. In this study, we aim to investigate the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanisms of human bone marrow-derived MSC (hMSC) on MHV-68-induced pneumonia. We found that intravenous administration of hMSCs significantly reduced lung damages, diminished inflammatory mediators and somehow inhibited MHV-68 replication. Furthermore, hMSCs treatment can regulate innate immune response and induce macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 phenotype, could significantly alter leukocyte infiltration and reduce pulmonary fibrosis. Our findings with co-culture system indicated that hMSCs effectively reduced the secretion of of inflammation-related factors and induced a shift in macrophage polarization, consistent with in vivo results. Further investigations revealed that hMSCs treatment suppressed the activation of macrophage ROS/NLRP3 signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, administration of MCC950, a selective NLRP3 inhibitor has been shown to effectively reduce ROS production and subsequently alleviate inflammation induced by MHV-68. Taken together, our work has shown that hMSCs can effectively protect mice from lethal MHV-68 pneumonia, which may throw new light on strategy for combating human EBV-associated pneumonia.
Converted-wave reflection traveltime inversion with free-surface multiples for ocean-bottom-node data
Authors: Wang Tengfei , Liu Xueyi , Cheng Jiubing
Published: September 2023

Advancements in ocean-bottom-node (OBN) technologies have enabled the recording of high-quality multicomponent seismic data, which can provide crucial information about subsurface properties through elastic seismic imaging. However, imaging multicomponent data is challenging due to the requirement for P- and S-wave velocity models. Conventional processing relies on estimating the S-wave velocity model using a primary converted wave (C wave) because the pure S-wave primaries are not available if using standard air-gun sources. When a free surface is present, the C waves recorded with geophones can be contaminated by source-side P-wave multiples, especially water-layer reverberations, which are difficult to remove even using state-of-the-art wavefield decomposition methods. These C-wave multiples can cause significant mismatches between synthetic and observed data during reflection traveltime or waveform inversion if only primary P-to-S (PS) conversions are simulated. To address these issues and reliably build an S-wave velocity model for PS imaging, we develop a C-wave reflection traveltime inversion method that takes source-side free-surface multiples into account. The traveltime misfit of C-wave data is extracted using dynamic image warping to ensure a better match between the synthetic and observed data. The functional gradient of the objective function is derived using the adjoint state method. Based on sensitivity kernel analyses, a convenient gradient preconditioning strategy is developed to robustly separate the contribution of primary and multiple C waves during backpropagation. This strategy can effectively mitigate the high-wavenumber crosstalk associated with nonphysical wavepaths in the gradient and thus allow more accurate updating for the S-wave velocity model. The synthetic data and shallow-water OBN data from the East China Sea indicate that this approach can reliably recover the S-wave macrovelocity structures for PS imaging.
The Modest Genius: Mathematics, Certainty, and the Creation of the Public Newton
Authors: Mattana Alessio
Published: September 2023

This essay examines the myth of Isaac Newton's modesty in eighteenth-century Britain. By analyzing both primary sources by and on Newton and scholarship on the concept of “modest witnessing,” this essay argues that a number of actors concerned with Newton's public relevance progressively divested his scientific ideas of mathematics with the goal of smoothing their dogmatic edges and making them more accessible to the polite public. This process, it will be claimed, resulted in creating the myth of the modest Newton, the genius who had discovered the secrets of nature and made them available for the public good.
Controlling Excited-State Dynamics and Chemical Reactivities of Platinum Acetylide Complexes via Self-Threading Ligands with Permethylated α-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Masai Hiroshi
Published: September 2023

Exterting control over the excited-state dynamics and chemical reactivities of transition metal complexes allows an enhancement in their physical properties and the development of their applications to novel materials. Hence, in this study, transition metal complexes were incorporated into a protective environment using permethylated α-cyclodextrin (PM α-CD)-based macrocycles. As a novel design concept for protective ligands in transition metal complexes, the macrocyclic PM α-CDs were efficiently introduced and fixed close to the metal centers via covalent bonding with the self-threading structures of rigid π-conjugated ligands. The protection of the transition metal complexes prevented undesired conformational changes and chemical reactions, thereby enhancing their functional properties and revealing the potential reactivities of the transition metals. In this account, the unique chemical reactivities and optical properties of transition metal complexes protected with PM α-CDs are summarized, with a focus on the distinctive features of platinum acetylide complexes and their applications to polymer materials.
Structure Identification of Dynamic Zinc(II)-ligand Assemblies in Solution Based on Ligand Chirality
Authors: Ogata Daiji , Yuasa Junpei
Published: September 2023

This study demonstrates that pendant chirality on building ligands functions as a valuable indicator for identifying metal-ligand dynamic assemblies in solution: Racemic ligands (L(R) and L(S)) with zinc ions (Zn2+) give (Zn2+)2(L(R))n(L(S))(4−n) (n = 0–4) assemblies with statistical L(R) and L(S) positioning, which can be analyzed by 1H NMR spectroscopy with a statistical model.
Post-graduate educational environment of two parallel programs in Pediatric Medicine
Authors: Hamid Muhmmad Haroon , Mahboob Usman , Khan Rehan Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Objective: To compare the trainees’ perception of the Educational Environment (EE) of the two parallel post-graduate training programs (MD & FCPS) in Pediatric Medicine.

Methods: This quantitative cross-sectional study was carried out by Department of Medical Education UOL and Department of Pediatric Medicine KEMU from February to December 2021. Data about the perception of EE was collected from the Pediatric Medicine trainees by purposive sampling using the 40 items PHEEM inventory. The inventory has three perception domains: role autonomy, teaching, and social support. In addition, to mean scores, the inventory also gives interpretation according to the score ranges. The FCPS and MD trainees of both genders and all years of training across the institutions of Punjab were approached using Google Forms. SPSS (v 23.0) was used for descriptive and analytic statistics.

Results: A total of 327 trainees’ responses were included-188 (57.5%) FCPS and 139 (42.5%) MD trainees. The mean overall score was 92±19.7 for FCSP and 93.88±21.5 for MD trainees (p-value 0.41). The interpretation of the overall score was “more positive than negative but room for improvement” in 67.3%. For the subscales of role autonomy, teaching, and social support, the perception was positive by 71%, 80%, and 45% of trainees, respectively. Except for three individual items, the mean scores of the subscales and the individual items were not statistically different between the two groups.

Conclusion: The Pediatric Medicine trainees’ perception of the educational environment in the FCPS and MD groups was comparable overall and in all three domains. Individual item analysis showed almost similar areas for improvement in both programs.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7696

How to cite this: Hamid MH, Mahboob U, Khan RA. Post-graduate educational environment of two parallel programs in Pediatric Medicine. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(6):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7696

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Perceptions about the Implementation and Education of Telemedicine among University Students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Arain Shoukat  Ali , Al Ajlan Juman Saleh , Ahmed Mohammed Ejaz , Alshehry Amjad Abdullah , Meo Sultan Ayoub
Published: September 2023

Objectives: This study evaluated and compared the perceptions, awareness, and experiences of telemedicine among university students in Riyadh.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was distributed electronically to undergraduate university students in Riyadh. The study was conducted from September 2021 to March 2022. Five-point Likert scale data were reported as percent agreement, while open-text comments were reported as recurring themes. Besides, the perceptions of medical students were compared with students from other disciplines.

Results: Of 564 participants, 209 (37%) were medical students. Most respondents agreed that telemedicine could save patients’ time (77.7%) and improve access to healthcare (73.4%). The agreement was low for the statements that doctors would effectively evaluate the clinical features (39.2%) and that patients would effectively communicate their illnesses (44.3%). The agreement of medical students compared to students from other disciplines was even lower for these statements (25% vs. 47%; p<0.001) and (37% vs. 48%; p=0.03), respectively. Most medical students reported that they never learned about telemedicine (65%) and its tools (69%). Lack of awareness, training of healthcare workers and perceived lower quality of healthcare emerged as the most relevant factors for the limited acceptance of telemedicine.

Conclusions: Most participants perceived that telemedicine could save patients’ time and improve access to healthcare. The low agreement, especially of medical students, for the ability of physicians to evaluate clinical features and of patients to communicate illnesses effectively possibly represented suboptimal education of telemedicine in medical curricula. Thus, incorporating telemedicine into medical curricula and improving public awareness might expedite telemedicine implementation.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7797

How to cite this: Arain SA, Al Ajlan JS, Ahmed ME, Alshehry AA, Meo SA. Perceptions about the Implementation and Education of Telemedicine among University Students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(6):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7797

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Stakeholders’ perspectives and experiences of patient and public involvement (PPI) in clinical trials in maternal and neonatal healthcare: protocol for a qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Hannon Kathleen , Eustace-Cook Jessica , Daly Déirdre , Smith Valerie
Published: September 2023

Background: Patient and public involvement (PPI) has the potential to improve the relevance of trial outcomes and improve participant recruitment within clinical trials. However, the literature on PPI approaches, outcomes, and attitudes towards PPI in specific clinical research areas is limited. We are interested to know the current approaches to and views of PPI within maternal and neonatal clinical trials, from the perspective and experience of involved stakeholders. 

Methods: A qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) of stakeholders’ perspectives and experiences of PPI will be conducted. Stakeholders will include any individual involved in maternal or neonatal clinical trials with experience of PPI in the area or who expresses their views on PPI. The electronic bibliographic databases CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Maternity and Infant Care (OVID) will be searched from inception. Qualitative studies, mixed-methods studies where the qualitative data can be extracted independently, and surveys with open-ended qualitative questions, will be included.

Aims: The QES seeks to explore stakeholders’, including PPI contributors, trial participants and guardians, and trial researchers, perspectives and experiences of PPI in maternal and neonatal clinical trials.

Discussion: THE QES will provide an understanding of how PPI is understood, operationalised and experienced by stakeholders in maternal and neonatal clinical trials, with the aim of identifying good practice and areas for improvement.

PROSPERO registration: CRD42023383878 (2nd March 2023)
The impact of COVID-19 on the care of diabetic foot ulcers: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Flynn Sinead , Kirwan Ellen , MacGilchrist Claire , McIntosh Caroline
Published: September 2023

Background: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a significant and on-going impact on the delivery of health and social care services across the globe due to imposed restrictions required to control the spread of the virus. This, undoubtedly, impacted population health through disruption to healthcare services and delayed delivery of care. The impact of these restrictions and precautions were especially pertinent to those who were deemed at high risk of developing complications from COVID-19, for example, those living with chronic disease and significant comorbidities including diabetes mellitus (DM) and diabetic foot ulceration (DFU).

Objectives: The objectives of this scoping review are to conduct a systematic search of the literature to identify the nature and extent of the research evidence to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacted and disrupted the care of DFU and the subsequent impact on patient outcomes. Secondly, to identify transformation in models of care and service delivery, adoption of new technologies and new models of service innovations including modalities such as telehealth that were adopted during the pandemic.

Methods: This systematic scoping review will be conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR).     

Discussion: It is well established that DFU are a devastating complication of DM that cause significant morbidity and mortality, however, there is a need to establish the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on those living with DFU during the pandemic. We will synthesise and appraise the current literature to provide an in depth understanding of the impact of COVID-19 and the global response on the care of DFU including radical transformation in models of care and service delivery, adoption of new technologies and new models of service innovations, including modalities such as telehealth.
Effectiveness of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy(PCIT) for Children with Problem Behavior: Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Jeongok , Lee Sanghee
Published: September 2023

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based short-term treatment program designed for preschool children (2 to 7 years old) and parents with behavior or emotional problems, and is an effective intervention method to improve parent-child relationships and reduce children’s problem behavior. The purpose of this study is to estimate the effect of PCIT studied in Korea and to prepare an integrated basis. From 1991 to February 2022, papers studied in Korea were selected as exploration and target studies. A total of 17 studies were selected, and 11 studies (212 children, 12 father, 212 mother, 436 total) were finally included in the meta-analysis study, excluding 3 studies that presented the ranking sum. As a result of this study, the effect of PCIT improved children's problem behavior (1.32), reduced parenting stress (1.06) and mother's depression (0.99), and increased parenting efficacy (1.06) and spouse's parenting cooperation (0.86), which showed a significant effect (d>.8). This study is the first to conduct a meta-analysis on the effects of PCIT based on domestic literature and is expected to be widely used as a child counseling and parent education program.
Estimating the cost-effectiveness of proton-pump inhibitors vs over-the-counter antacids for acid reflux: an overview of methods
Authors: Watts Karina , Taylor Matthew
Published: September 2023

Matthew Taylor and Karina Watts outline methods of evaluating the cost-effectiveness of different treatments for acid reflux, focusing on antacids and proton-pump inhibitors.
Springboard
Authors: Gooding Richard
Published: September 2023

Addressing the complex design, weight, manufacturing costs and production scalability of conventional hydrogen fuel cell stacks, Bramble Energy's Printed Circuit Board Fuel Cell technology aims to revolutionize the FCEV transport sectors