bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parents’ intention to vaccinate their 5- to 11-year-old children with the COVID-19 vaccine: rates, predictors and the role of incentives
Authors: Shmueli Liora
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Immediately after Pfizer announced encouraging effectiveness and safety results from their COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials in 5- to 11-year-old children, this study aimed to assess parents’ perceptions and intention to vaccinate their 5-11-year-old children and to determine socio-demographic, health-related, behavioral factors, as well as the role of incentives.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey of parents of children between 5 and 11 years of age among the Jewish population in Israel (n = 1,012). The survey was carried out between September 23 and October 4, 2021, at a critical time, immediately after Pfizer’s announcement. Two multivariate regressions were performed to determine predictors of parents’ intention to vaccinate their 5-11-year-old children against COVID-19.

Results

Overall, 57% of the participants reported that they intend to vaccinate their 5-11-year-old children against COVID-19 in the winter of 2022. 27% noted that they would vaccinate their 5-11-year-old children immediately; 26% within three months; and 24% within more than three months. Perceived susceptibility, benefits, barriers and cues to action, as well as two incentives - vaccine availability and receiving a “Green Pass” - were all significant predictors. However, Incentives such as monetary rewards or monetary penalties did not increase the probability of parents’ intention to vaccinate their children. Parental concerns centered around the safety of the vaccine, fear of severe side effects, and fear that clinical trials and the authorization process were carried out too quickly.

Conclusion

This study provides data on the role of incentives in vaccinating 5-11-year-old children, how soon they intend to do so, and the predictors of those intentions, which is essential knowledge for health policy makers planning vaccination campaigns.
The relationship between social determinants of health and postpartum weight retention based on the World Health Organization model: path analysis
Authors: Bazzazian Shahin , Ozgoli Giti , Riazi Hedyeh , Mahmoodi Zohreh , Vafa Mohammadreza , Nasiri Malihe
Published: February 2023

Background

Postpartum weight retention (PPWR) causes obesity, chronic diseases, and occurring adverse maternal-fetal and neonatal outcomes. Given the social factors’ effect on health and disease and considering the lack of information on social determinants of health (SDH) effects on PPWR, this study was conducted to survey the relationship between SDH and PPWR based on the World Health Organization (WHO) model.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed on 400 women six months after delivery in 2020. Twelve health centers were randomly selected from the three universities of Medical Sciences in the city of Tehran, Iran. Participants were selected by convenience method and based on eligibility. Questionnaires used included: Lifestyle Profile Health Promoting II, Short Form Postpartum Quality of Life Questionnaire, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Postpartum Social Support, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales, and questionnaires designed by reviewing the literature about breastfeeding, sleep, contraceptive, child health, unhealthy behaviors, postpartum nutritional awareness/beliefs, body satisfaction, access to postpartum care, socioeconomic status, demographic, and obstetric questionnaire. Data analysis was performed in SPSS-23, and the relationship model was examined using the path analysis method in LISREL-8.8.

Results

Path analysis indicated the direct effect of six intermediate factors on PPWR including: gestational weight gain (β = 0.42), access to postpartum care (β = 0.11), postpartum nutritional awareness/beliefs (β=-0.17), anxiety (β = 0.09), sleep duration (β=-0.09), pre-pregnancy body mass index (β = 0.09). Among the structural factors, woman’s education and socioeconomic status had an indirect negative effect on PPWR. The model fit indices showed good fit (RMSE = 0/05, GFI = 0.92, CFI = 0.92, χ2/df = 2.17).

Conclusion

The results indicate the effect of structural and intermediate determinants of health on PPWR. It is recommended to use the proposed model as an appropriate framework in the research, design, and implementation of programs to prevent and control PPWR.
Are HOMA-IR and HOMA-B good predictors for diabetes and pre-diabetes subtypes?
Authors: Khalili Davood , Khayamzadeh Marjan , Kohansal Karim , Ahanchi Noushin Sadat , Hasheminia Mitra , Hadaegh Farzad , Tohidi Maryam , Azizi Fereidoun , Habibi-Moeini Ali Siamak
Published: February 2023

Background

To investigate the association between the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and Homeostasis Model Assessment of Beta-cell function (HOMA-B) with the incidence of diabetes and pre-diabetes subtypes.

Methods

A total of 3101 normoglycemic people aged 20–70 years were included in the 6-year follow-up study. Multinomial logistic regression was used to calculate the incidence possibility of isolated Impaired Fasting Glucose (iIFG), isolated Impaired Glucose Tolerance (iIGT), Combined impaired fasting glucose & impaired glucose tolerance (CGI), and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) per standard deviation (SD) increment in HOMA-IR and HOMA-B in the crude and multivariable model.

Results

In the multivariate model, an increase in one SD change in HOMA-IR was associated with a 43, 42, 75, and 92% increased risk of iIFG, iIGT, CGI, and DM, respectively. There was a positive correlation between the increase in HOMA-B and the incidence of iIGT; however, after adjusting the results for metabolic syndrome components, it was inversely correlated with the incidence of iIFG [Odds Ratio = 0.86(0.75–0.99)].

Conclusions

HOMA-IR is positively correlated with diabetes and pre-diabetes subtypes’ incidence, and HOMA-B is inversely correlated with the incidence of iIFG but positively correlated with iIGT incidence. However, none of these alone is a good criterion for predicting diabetes and pre-diabetes.
Association between oral health behavior and chronic diseases among middle-aged and older adults in Beijing, China
Authors: Guo Dan , Shi Zhenyu , Luo Yanan , Ding Ruoxi , He Ping
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the association between oral health behavior and multiple chronic diseases among middle-aged and older adults.

Methods

We obtained data of the Beijing Health Service Survey and used multivariate logistic models to estimate the association between oral hygiene behavior and the risk of chronic diseases.

Results

The risk of any chronic diseases (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.18–1.37), cardiovascular diseases (CVD, OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.21–1.39), and endocrine or nutritional metabolic disorders (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.01–1.22) was higher in those who with poor oral health behavior. There was no significant correlation between oral health behavior and the risk of diseases of the musculoskeletal, respiratory, digestive, and genitourinary systems.

Conclusions

Poor oral hygiene practices were associated with higher risk of chronic diseases, CVD and diabetes mellitus (DM) among middle-aged and older adults. These findings motivate further studies to evaluate whether improved oral health behavior may prevent the incidence of chronic diseases.
Enhancing end of life care on general internal medical wards: the 3 Wishes Project
Authors: Reid Julie C. , Dennis Brittany , Hoad Neala , Clarke France , Hanmiah Rajendar , Vegas Daniel Brandt , Boyle Anne , Toledo Feli , Rudkowski Jill C. , Soth Mark , Heels-Ansdell Diane , Cheung Andrew , Willison Kathleen , Neville Thanh H. , Cheung Jason , Woods Anne , Cook Deborah
Published: February 2023

Background

Initially developed in the intensive care unit (ICU) at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton (SJHH) the 3 Wishes Project (3WP) provides personalized, compassionate care to dying patients and their families. The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate 3WP expansion strategies for patients cared for on General Internal Medicine (GIM) wards in our hospital.

Methods

From January 2020-November 2021, we developed a phased, multicomponent approach for program expansion. We enrolled patients on the GIM wards who had a high probability of dying in hospital, then elicited, implemented, and documented wishes for them or their families. Data were analyzed descriptively.

Results

From March 2020 to November 2020, we implemented staff education and engagement activities, created an Expansion Coordinator position, held strategic consultations, and offered enabling resources. From March 2020 to November 2021, we enrolled 62 patients and elicited 281 wishes (median [1st, 3rd quartiles] 4 [4, 5] wishes/patient). The most common wish categories were personalizing the environment (67 wishes, 24%), rituals and spiritual support (42 wishes, 15%), and facilitating connections (39 wishes, 14%). The median [1st, 3rd] cost/patient was $0 [0, $10.00] (range $0 to $86); 91% of wishes incurred no cost to the program.

Conclusions

The formal expansion of the 3WP on GIM wards has been successful despite COVID-19 pandemic disruptions. While there is still work ahead, these data suggest that implementing the 3WP on the GIM wards is feasible and affordable. Increased engagement of the clinical team during the pandemic suggests that it is positively received.
The effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Rheum ribes on insulin-resistance and apolipoproteins in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ghafouri Atieh , Jafari Karegar Sahar , Hajiluian Ghazaleh , Hosseini Sharieh , Shidfar Shahrzad , Kamalinejad Mohammad , Hosseini Agha Fatemeh , Heydari Iraj , Shidfar Farzad
Published: February 2023

Background and aim

Previous studies have shown thatRheum ribes(R. ribes) could be effective in controlling the blood glucose levels. This study was conducted to determine the effects ofR. ribessupplementation on glycemic indices and apolipoproteins in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

In the present randomized double-blind controlled trial, 60 type 2 diabetic patients aged 30–60 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 20–30 kg/m2and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 6–8% were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 450 mg of aqueousR. ribesextract (AG), 450 mg of ethanolicR. ribesextract (EG), or placebo (PG) three times daily for 6 weeks. At the baseline and at the end of the study, blood glucose levels, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the homeostatic model assessment of β-cell dysfunction (HOMA-B), as well as apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA1) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) were measured.

Results

There was a significant decrease in the serum levels of insulin in AG and EG groups (P = 0.003 andP = 0.001, respectively), HOMA-IR (P = 0.01 andP = 0.001, respectively), HOMA-B (P = 0.002 andP = 0.001, respectively), ApoB (P = 0.006 andP = 0.03, respectively), ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (P = 0.016 andP = 0.04, respectively). However, a significant increase in ApoA1 (P = 0.08 andP = 0.05, respectively) with no significant changes in blood glucose, at the end of study compared to beginning values, were observed. None of the variables showed a significant change in PG. At the end of the study; while there were significant differences in insulin (P = 0.04), HOMA-IR (P = 0.03), HOMA-B (P = 0.01), ApoB (P = 0.02), and ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (P = 0.03) among the groups but ApoA1 had no significant change.

Conclusion

Consumption ofR. ribesintake could have beneficial effects on insulin resistance and apolipoproteins in type 2 diabetic patients. (Registered at en.irct.ir, identification number: IRCT201410142709N31).
Associations between types and sources of dietary carbohydrates and cardiovascular disease risk: a prospective cohort study of UK Biobank participants
Authors: Kelly Rebecca K. , Tong Tammy Y. N. , Watling Cody Z. , Reynolds Andrew , Piernas Carmen , Schmidt Julie A. , Papier Keren , Carter Jennifer L. , Key Timothy J. , Perez-Cornago Aurora
Published: February 2023

Background

Recent studies have reported that the associations between dietary carbohydrates and cardiovascular disease (CVD) may depend on the quality, rather than the quantity, of carbohydrates consumed. This study aimed to assess the associations between types and sources of dietary carbohydrates and CVD incidence. A secondary aim was to examine the associations of carbohydrate intakes with triglycerides within lipoprotein subclasses.

Methods

A total of 110,497 UK Biobank participants with ≥ two (maximum five) 24-h dietary assessments who were free from CVD and diabetes at baseline were included. Multivariable-adjusted Cox regressions were used to estimate risks of incident total CVD (4188 cases), ischaemic heart disease (IHD; 3138) and stroke (1124) by carbohydrate intakes over a median follow-up time of 9.4 years, and the effect of modelled dietary substitutions. The associations of carbohydrate intakes with plasma triglycerides within lipoprotein subclasses as measured by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were examined in 26,095 participants with baseline NMR spectroscopy measurements.

Results

Total carbohydrate intake was not associated with CVD outcomes. Free sugar intake was positively associated with total CVD (HR; 95% CI per 5% of energy, 1.07;1.03–1.10), IHD (1.06;1.02–1.10), and stroke (1.10;1.04–1.17). Fibre intake was inversely associated with total CVD (HR; 95% CI per 5 g/d, 0.96;0.93–0.99). Modelled isoenergetic substitution of 5% of energy from refined grain starch with wholegrain starch was inversely associated with total CVD (0.94;0.91–0.98) and IHD (0.94;0.90–0.98), and substitution of free sugars with non-free sugars was inversely associated with total CVD (0.95;0.92–0.98) and stroke (0.91;0.86–0.97). Free sugar intake was positively associated with triglycerides within all lipoproteins.

Conclusions

Higher free sugar intake was associated with higher CVD incidence and higher triglyceride concentrations within all lipoproteins. Higher fibre intake and replacement of refined grain starch and free sugars with wholegrain starch and non-free sugars, respectively, may be protective for incident CVD.
Association of four lipid-derived indicators with the risk of developing type 2 diabetes: a Chinese population-based cohort study
Authors: He Linfeng , Zheng Wenbin , Li Zeyu , Kong Wen , Zeng Tianshu
Published: February 2023

Background

Studies have reported that lipid-derived indicators are associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in various populations; however, it is unclear which lipid-derived indicators could effectively predict T2D risk. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the association between four lipid-derived indicators and T2D risk.

Methods

This was a post-hoc analysis from a large cohort that included data from 114,700 Chinese individuals aged 20 years and older from 11 cities and 32 sites. The association between four lipid-derived indicators and T2D risk was determined using Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival curves, Cox regression, and restricted cubic spline analyses. This study used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for assessing the ability of four lipid-derived indicators to accurately predict the development of T2D during follow-up.

Results

This study included a total of 114,700 participants, with a mean age of 44.15. These individuals were followed up for 3.1 years, of which 2668 participants developed T2D. ROC curve analysis showed that TyG was the most robust predictor of 3-year [aera under the ROC (AUC) = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.768, 0.772] and 5-year T2D risk (AUC = 0.763, 95% CI: 0.760, 0.765). In addition, sensitivity analysis showed an association between TyG and an increased incidence of T2D.

Conclusions

The results suggest that TyG was a superior for predicting the risk of developing T2D in the general Chinese population.
The effect of DASH diet on glycemic response, meta-inflammation and serum LPS in obese patients with NAFLD: a double-blind controlled randomized clinical trial
Authors: Rooholahzadegan Farnaz , Arefhosseini Sara , Tutunchi Helda , Badali Taghi , Khoshbaten Manuchehr , Ebrahimi-Mameghani Mehrangiz
Published: February 2023

Background

As dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) dietary pattern has been shown to be effective in hypertension and obesity, the present study investigated the effects of following DASH diet on glycemic, meta-inflammation, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and liver function in obese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

In this double-blind controlled randomized clinical trial, 40 obese patients with NAFLD were randomly allocated into either “DASH diet” (n = 20) or calorie-restricted diet as "Control” (n = 20) group for 8 weeks. Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, glycemic response, liver enzymes, toll-like reseptor-4 (TLR-4) and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1) and LPS as well as Dixon's DASH diet index were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks.

Results

After 8 weeks, although all obesity indices decreased significantly in both groups, the reduction in all anthropometric measures were significantly greater in DASH vs control group, after adjusting for baseline values and weight change. Fasting glucose level decreased in both group, however, no inter-group significant difference was found at the end of study. Nevertheless, serum levels of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), TLR-4, MCP-1 and LPS as well as aspartate aminotransferase (AST) decreased significantly in DASH group, after adjusting for baseline values and weight change (p < 0.001, p = 0.004, p = 0.027, p = 0.011, and p = 0.008, respectively). The estimated number needed to treats (NNTs) for one and two grade reductions in NAFLD severity following DASH diet were 2.5 and 6.67, respectively.

Conclusion

Adherence to DASH diet could significantly improve weight, glycemia, inflammation and liver function in obese patients with NAFLD.
Inhaled amikacin for pneumonia treatment and dissemination prevention: an experimental model of severe monolateral Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia
Authors: Motos Ana , Yang Hua , Li Bassi Gianluigi , Yang Minlan , Meli Andrea , Battaglini Denise , Cabrera Roberto , Bobi Joaquim , Pagliara Francesco , Frigola Gerard , Camprubí-Rimblas Marta , Fernández-Barat Laia , Rigol Montserrat , Ferrer-Segarra Antoni , Kiarostami Kasra , Martinez Daniel , Nicolau David P. , Artigas Antonio , Pelosi Paolo , Vila Jordi , Torres Antoni
Published: February 2023

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia is commonly treated with systemic antibiotics to ensure adequate treatment of multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria. However, intravenous (IV) antibiotics often achieve suboptimal pulmonary concentrations. We therefore aimed to evaluate the effect of inhaled amikacin (AMK) plus IV meropenem (MEM) on bactericidal efficacy in a swine model of monolateral MDR P. aeruginosa pneumonia.

Methods

We ventilated 18 pigs with monolateral MDR P. aeruginosa pneumonia for up to 102 h. At 24 h after the bacterial challenge, the animals were randomized to receive 72 h of treatment with either inhaled saline (control), IV MEM only, or IV-MEM plus inhaled AMK (MEM + AMK). We dosed IV MEM at 25 mg/kg every 8 h and inhaled AMK at 400 mg every 12 h. The primary outcomes were the P. aeruginosa burden and histopathological injury in lung tissue. Secondary outcomes included the P. aeruginosa burden in tracheal secretions and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, the development of antibiotic resistance, the antibiotic distribution, and the levels of inflammatory markers.

Results

The median (25–75th percentile) P. aeruginosa lung burden for animals in the control, MEM only, and MEM + AMK groups was 2.91 (1.75–5.69), 0.72 (0.12–3.35), and 0.90 (0–4.55) log10 CFU/g (p = 0.009). Inhaled therapy had no effect on preventing dissemination compared to systemic monotherapy, but it did have significantly higher bactericidal efficacy in tracheal secretions only. Remarkably, the minimum inhibitory concentration of MEM increased to > 32 mg/L after 72-h exposure to monotherapy in 83% of animals, while the addition of AMK prevented this increase (p = 0.037). Adjunctive therapy also slightly affected interleukin-1β downregulation. Despite finding high AMK concentrations in pulmonary samples, we found no paired differences in the epithelial lining fluid concentration between infected and non-infected lungs. Finally, a non-significant trend was observed for higher amikacin penetration in low-affected lung areas.

Conclusions

In a swine model of monolateral MDR P. aeruginosa pneumonia, resistant to the inhaled AMK and susceptible to the IV antibiotic, the use of AMK as an adjuvant treatment offered no benefits for either the colonization of pulmonary tissue or the prevention of pathogen dissemination. However, inhaled AMK improved bacterial eradication in the proximal airways and hindered antibiotic resistance.
Effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass on the metabolic profile and systemic inflammatory status of women with metabolic syndrome: randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Felipe Lucenda A. , Bachi André L. L. , Oliveira Miriã C. , Moreira Sandra M. B. P. , Afonso João Pedro R. , Lino Maria E. M. , Paixão Vitória , Silva Carlos H. M. , Vieira Rodolfo P. , Vencio Sergio , Jirjos Elias I. , Malheiros Carlos A. , Insalaco Giuseppe , Júnior Wilson R. Freitas , Oliveira Luis V. F.
Published: February 2023

Background

Obesity remains a public health problem worldwide. The high prevalence of this condition in the population raises further concerns, considering that comorbidities are often associated with obesity. Among the comorbidities closely associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome (MS) is particularly important, which potentially increases the risk of manifestation of other disorders, such as the prothrombotic and systemic pro-inflammatory states.

Methods

A randomized, controlled clinical trial was performed involving female patients (n = 32) aged between 18 and 65 years, with a clinical diagnosis of MS, with severe obesity undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The study design followed the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement (CONSORT). Lipid profile, blood glucose and adipokines (adiponectin, leptin, and resistin) and (cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, and TNF-α) in blood plasma samples were evaluated before and six months after RYGB.

Results

Patients undergoing RYGB (BSG) showed a significant improvement from preoperative grade III obesity to postoperative grade I obesity. The results showed that while HDL levels increased, the other parameters showed a significant reduction in their postoperative values when compared not only to the values observed before surgery in the BSG group, but also to the values obtained in the control group (CG). As for systemic inflammatory markers adiponectin, leptin, resistin, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23 and TNF- α it was observed that the levels of resistin and IL-17 in the second evaluation increased significantly when compared to the levels observed in the first evaluation in the CG. In the BSG group, while the levels of adiponectin increased, the levels of the other markers showed significant reductions in the postoperative period, in relation to the respective preoperative levels. The analysis of Spearman’s correlation coefficient showed a significant positive correlation between IL-17 and IL-23 in the preoperative period, significant positive correlations between TNF-α and IL-6, TNF-α and IL-17, IL-6 and IL-17, and IL-17 and IL-23 were observed postoperatively.

Conclusions

According to our results, the reduction of anthropometric measurements induced by RYGB, significantly improves not only the plasma biochemical parameters (lipid profile and glycemia), but also the systemic inflammatory status of severely obese patients with MS.

Trials registration NCT02409160
UnCorrupt SMILES: a novel approach to de novo design
Authors: Schoenmaker Linde , Béquignon Olivier J. M. , Jespers Willem , van Westen Gerard J. P.
Published: February 2023

Generative deep learning models have emerged as a powerful approach for de novo drug design as they aid researchers in finding new molecules with desired properties. Despite continuous improvements in the field, a subset of the outputs that sequence-based de novo generators produce cannot be progressed due to errors. Here, we propose to fix these invalid outputs post hoc. In similar tasks, transformer models from the field of natural language processing have been shown to be very effective. Therefore, here this type of model was trained to translate invalid Simplified Molecular-Input Line-Entry System (SMILES) into valid representations. The performance of this SMILES corrector was evaluated on four representative methods of de novo generation: a recurrent neural network (RNN), a target-directed RNN, a generative adversarial network (GAN), and a variational autoencoder (VAE). This study has found that the percentage of invalid outputs from these specific generative models ranges between 4 and 89%, with different models having different error-type distributions. Post hoc correction of SMILES was shown to increase model validity. The SMILES corrector trained with one error per input alters 60–90% of invalid generator outputs and fixes 35–80% of them. However, a higher error detection and performance was obtained for transformer models trained with multiple errors per input. In this case, the best model was able to correct 60–95% of invalid generator outputs. Further analysis showed that these fixed molecules are comparable to the correct molecules from the de novo generators based on novelty and similarity. Additionally, the SMILES corrector can be used to expand the amount of interesting new molecules within the targeted chemical space. Introducing different errors into existing molecules yields novel analogs with a uniqueness of 39% and a novelty of approximately 20%. The results of this research demonstrate that SMILES correction is a viable post hoc extension and can enhance the search for better drug candidates.

Graphical Abstract
Transcriptionally imprinted glycomic signatures of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Blöchl Constantin , Wang Di , Mayboroda Oleg A. , Lageveen-Kammeijer Guinevere S. M. , Wuhrer Manfred
Published: February 2023

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous disease that has been suffering from stagnant survival curves for decades. In the endeavor toward improved diagnosis and treatment, cellular glycosylation has emerged as an interesting focus area in AML. While mechanistic insights are still limited, aberrant glycosylation may affect intracellular signaling pathways of AML blasts, their interactions within the microenvironment, and even promote chemoresistance. Here, we performed a meta-omics study to portray the glycomic landscape of AML, thereby screening for potential subtypes and responsible glyco-regulatory networks.

Results

Initially, by integrating comprehensive N-, O-, and glycosphingolipid (GSL)-glycomics of AML cell lines with transcriptomics from public databases, we were able to pinpoint specific glycosyltransferases (GSTs) and upstream transcription factors (TFs) associated with glycan phenotypes. Intriguingly, subtypes M5 and M6, as classified by the French-American-British (FAB) system, emerged with distinct glycomic features such as high (sialyl) Lewisx/a ((s)Lex/a) and high sialylation, respectively. Exploration of transcriptomics datasets of primary AML cells further substantiated and expanded our findings from cell lines as we observed similar gene expression patterns and regulatory networks that were identified to be involved in shaping AML glycan signatures.

Conclusions

Taken together, our data suggest transcriptionally imprinted glycomic signatures of AML, reflecting their differentiation status and FAB classification. This study expands our insights into the emerging field of AML glycosylation and paves the way for studies of FAB class-associated glycan repertoires of AML blasts and their functional implications.
Renewable energy from secondary wood products contributes to local green development: the case of small-scale privately owned forests in Ciamis Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Siarudin Mohamad , Awang San Afri , Sadono Ronggo , Suryanto Priyono
Published: February 2023

Background

Wood biomass from forests is a renewable energy source that has the potential to support global green development. However, the process of traditional firewood extraction and its contribution to the energy supply varies and is usually underrecognized, especially in the local context. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the traditional use and estimate the supply and demand for wood bioenergy from small-scale privately owned forests (SSPF) in Ciamis Regency, West Java Province, Indonesia.

Methods

The sample location was determined in 3 subdistricts, namely, Sukamantri, Ciamis, and Banjaranyar, which represent the northern, central, and southern regions, respectively. The data were collected through observations on stands, interviews with respondents, key informants from users and business actors of wood in the SSPF, and observations on the processes taking place in the flow and use of biomaterials and firewoods.

Results and conclusion

Firewood is a secondary product that cannot be separated from the main products along SSPF’s chain of production based on the integration of raw material sources, linkages between actors, and volume sharing. The local knowledge and wisdom entanglements included the identification of the type and quality of firewood, distribution of resource allocation for household and industrial needs, and sharing of firewood for household needs. Although wood biomass contributes to the fulfillment of households and industrial needs of 8.51 million m3, there are indications of an imbalance between the potential supply and the demand for firewood due to its high intensity of use in industries. Therefore, multistakeholder and cross-regional support are needed to achieve sustainable SSPF management and fulfill the self-sufficiency of wood energy.
The human gut microbiome of athletes: metagenomic and metabolic insights
Authors: Fontana Federico , Longhi Giulia , Tarracchini Chiara , Mancabelli Leonardo , Lugli Gabriele Andrea , Alessandri Giulia , Turroni Francesca , Milani Christian , Ventura Marco
Published: February 2023

Background

The correlation between the physical performance of athletes and their gut microbiota has become of growing interest in the past years, since new evidences have emerged regarding the importance of the gut microbiota as a main driver of the health status of athletes. In addition, it has been postulated that the metabolic activity of the microbial population harbored by the large intestine of athletes might influence their physical performances. Here, we analyzed 418 publicly available shotgun metagenomics datasets obtained from fecal samples of healthy athletes and healthy sedentary adults.

Results

This study evidenced how agonistic physical activity and related lifestyle can be associated with the modulation of the gut microbiota composition, inducing modifications of the taxonomic profiles with an enhancement of gut microbes able to produce short-fatty acid (SCFAs). In addition, our analyses revealed a correlation between specific bacterial species and high impact biological synthases (HIBSs) responsible for the generation of a range of microbially driven compounds such vitamin B12, amino acidic derivatives, and other molecules linked to cardiovascular and age-related health-risk reduction.

Conclusions

Notably, our findings show how subsist an association between competitive athletes, and modulation of the gut microbiota, and how this modulation is reflected in the potential production of microbial metabolites that can lead to beneficial effects on human physical performance and health conditions.
The promising role of bacteriophage therapy in managing total hip and knee arthroplasty related periprosthetic joint infection, a systematic review
Authors: Khalifa Ahmed A. , Hussien Sarah M.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Total hip and knee arthroplasty periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) poses a management dilemma owing to the emergence of resistant organisms. A promising option is Bacteriophage therapy (BT) was used as an adjuvant for PJI management, aiming at treating resistant infections, decreasing morbidity, and mortality. The current review aimed to demonstrate the role and safety of using BT as an adjuvant to treat PJIs.

Methods

A systematic search was performed through four databases (Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) up to March 2022, according to the predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

Our systematic review included 11 case reports of 13 patients in which 14 joints (11 TKAs and three THAs) were treated. The patients’ average age was 73.7 years, underwent an average of 4.5 previous surgeries. The most common organism was the Staphylococcus aureus species. All patients underwent surgical debridement; for the 13 patients, eight received a cocktail, and five received monophage therapy. All patients received postoperative suppressive antibiotic therapy. After an average follow‐up of 14.5 months, all patients had satisfactory outcomes. No recurrence of infection in any patient. Transaminitis complicating BT was developed in three patients, needed stoppage in only one, and the condition was reversible and non‐life‐threatening.

Conclusion

BT is a safe and potentially effective adjuvant therapy for treating resistant and relapsing PJIs. However, further investigations are needed to clarify some BT‐related issues to create effective and reproducible therapeutics. Furthermore, new ethical regulations should be implemented to facilitate its widespread use.
Transforaminal Interbody Fusion Using the Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic Technique Compared With Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for the Treatment of Lumbar Spine Diseases: Analysis of Clinical and Radiological Outcomes
Authors: Zheng Bo , Zhang Xiu-Li , Li Peng
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

There has been a widespread application of minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques in the past few years. Unilateral biportal endoscopic has been successfully used in a variety of lumbar spine diseases, but there are few studies on lumbar fusion assisted by unilateral biportal endoscopy.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of transforaminal interbody fusion using the unilateral biportal endoscopic technique (UBEIF) and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in patients with lumbar disease.

METHODS:

We studied 128 patients, 58 in the UBEIF group and 70 in the TLIF group. The Oswestry disability index, creatine kinase, visual analog score (VAS) for leg and back pain were used to assess clinical outcomes. Radiographic outcomes were assessed using the fusion rate, internal fixation loosening, and adjacent segment degeneration.

RESULTS:

Back and leg pain VAS scores in both groups were significantly lower 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery (P < .05). A significant reduction in Oswestry disability index in both groups was observed 6 and 12 months after surgery (P < .05). Compared with the TLIF group at 1 week after surgery, UBEIF patients' VAS score for back pain significantly improved (P < .05). There was no difference in fusion rate between the 2 groups (98.27% vs 98.57%).

CONCLUSION:

UBEIF and TLIF have similar clinical and radiographic outcomes in the treatment of single-segment lumbar disease with lumbar instability, including improved back and leg pain, improved disability, and high fusion rates. Furthermore, with UBEIF, less blood is lost, there is better relief of early back pain, and hospital stays are shorter.
In vivoquantitative high-throughput screening for drug discovery and comparative toxicology
Authors: Dranchak Patricia K. , Oliphant Erin , Queme Bryan , Lamy Laurence , Wang Yuhong , Huang Ruili , Xia Menghang , Tao Dingyin , Inglese James
Published: February 2023

Quantitative high-throughput screening (qHTS) pharmacologically evaluates chemical libraries for therapeutic uses, toxicological risk and, increasingly, for academic probe discovery. Phenotypic high-throughput screening assays interrogate molecular pathways, often relying on cell culture systems, historically less focused on multicellular organisms. Caenorhabditis elegans has served as a eukaryotic model organism for human biology by virtue of genetic conservation and experimental tractability. Here, a paradigm enabling C. elegans qHTS using 384-well microtiter plate laser-scanning cytometry is described, in which GFP-expressing organisms revealing phenotype-modifying structure–activity relationships guide subsequent life-stage and proteomic analyses, and Escherichia coli bacterial ghosts, a non-replicating nutrient source, allow compound exposures over two life cycles, mitigating bacterial overgrowth complications. We demonstrate the method with libraries of anti-infective agents, or substances of toxicological concern. Each was tested in seven-point titration to assess the feasibility of nematode-based in vivo qHTS, and examples of follow-up strategies were provided to study organism-based chemotype selectivity and subsequent network perturbations with a physiological impact. We anticipate that this qHTS approach will enable analysis of C. elegans orthologous phenotypes of human pathologies to facilitate drug library profiling for a range of therapeutic indications.
De negócios de impacto para o impacto dos negócios
Authors: Barki Edgard
Published: February 2023

Temos de nos movimentar de uma mentalidade limitante para uma visão mais sistêmica, profunda e inclusiva para lidar com os problemas complexos da atualidade e transformar a sociedade de forma mais radical.
Pottery and social interaction
Authors: Σίλβα-Γκαρσία Τερέσα
Published: February 2023

Η εξέταση επιτραπέζιων σκευών και διακοσμημένων αγγείων από τρεις σύγχρονες τοποθεσίες της Ύστερης Νεολιθικής Ι (5400-4800 π.Χ.) στη Βόρεια Ελλάδα καταδεικνύει πώς η κεραμική ενεπλάκη σε διάφορες κλίμακες δικτύων. Οι σημαντικά διαφορετικές στυλιστικές επιλογές που παρατηρούνται σε κάθε τοποθεσία σχετίζονται με διαφορετικές στρατηγικές χρήσης κεραμικής ως μέρος των αλληλεπιδράσεών τους, τόσο καθημερινά όσο και σε πιο ειδικά πλαίσια. Η τεχνοτροπική ανάλυση της κεραμικής δύο οικοπέδων στη Σταυρούπολη-Θεσσαλονίκη είναι ενσωματωμένη σε στρωματογραφική ανάλυση για να σχηματίσει μια σχετική χρονολογία. Η σχετική χρονολογία με τη σειρά της σχηματίζει μια χρονολογία μετατοπίσεων στις επιλογές της έντασης των περιφερειακών και κοινοτικών αλληλεπιδράσεων. Η χρονολογημένη κεραμική με ραδιοάνθρακα από το λάκκο της Τούμπας Κρεμαστής Κοιλάδας συνδυάζεται με ανάλυση συμφραζομένων για να καταδείξει μια ποικιλία συμπεριφορών που ωστόσο υποστηρίχθηκαν και διατηρήθηκαν από μια αξιοσημείωτα στιλιστική σταθερή, ομοιογενή κεραμική συναρμολόγηση. Η εξέταση ενός δείγματος κεραμικής από τα Παλιάμπελα-Κολινδρού που δείχνει τόσο ποικιλομορφία όσο και ομοιογένεια και καταδεικνύει πόσες πιθανές διαφορετικές στρατηγικές διαδραματίστηκαν κατά την περίοδο αυτή στις περιοχές της Δυτικής και Κεντρικής Μακεδονίας. Με την ενσωμάτωση της ανάλυσης συμφραζομένων, της στιλιστικής ανάλυσης και της θεωρίας δικτύων, αυτά τα αποτελέσματα έχουν επιπτώσεις για μελλοντικές περιφερειακές προσεγγίσεις καθώς μπορούν να μελετηθούν περισσότερες τοποθεσίες καθώς και να καταδειχθεί η συνεχής χρησιμότητα της στυλιστικής ανάλυσης σε νεότερα θεωρητικά παραδείγματα.
The impact of ovarian response on cumulative live birth rates
Authors: Δρακόπουλος Παναγιώτης
Published: February 2023

Στην εποχή του πρωτοκόλλου ανταγωνιστή στην IVF σε συνδυασμό με τη δυνατότητα της στρατηγικής «freeze all», η σωρευτική πιθανότητα γεννήσεων αυξάνεται σταθερά με τον αριθμό των ωαρίων που ανακτώνται, φτάνοντας ακόμη και70% όταν συλλέγονται ≥25 ωάρια. Το ποσοστό γεννήσεων στους φρέσκους κύκλους IVF δεν διαφέρει σημαντικά κατά τη σύγκριση υψηλών (>15 ωαρίων) έναντι φυσιολογικών (10-15 ωαρίων) είτε φυσιολογικών (10-15 ωαρίων) έναντι μη βέλτιστων (4-9 ωαρίων) απαντητριών. Η πτώση των των ποσοστών ζώντων γεννήσεων σε άτομα με υψηλή ανταπόκριση θα μπορούσαν να αποδοθούν στη σταδιακή αύξηση των ποσοστών «freeze all» λόγω του κινδύνου συνδρόμου υπερδιέγερσης των ωοθηκών. Οι γυναίκες με υποβέλτιστη ανταπόκριση (4-9 ωάρια που ανακτήθηκαν) φαίνεται να αποτελούν μια ξεχωριστή κατηγορία ωοθηκικής απόκρισης. Η κοριφολλιτροπίνη άλφα ακολουθούμενη από hp-HMG δεν αυξάνει τα ποσοστά εγκυμοσύνης, τα ποσοστά γεννήσεων (LBR) και αθροιστικών LBR σε σύγκριση με τη rFSH σε νεαρά άτομα με φτωχή ανταπόκριση με βάση τα κριτήρια της Μπολόνια. Μια αύξηση της δόσης των γοναδοτροπινών σε έναν επόμενο κύκλο εξωσωματικής γονιμοποίησης μπορεί να ξεπεράσει την της υποβέλτιστη απόκριση σε προηγούμενο κύκλο.
Συγκριτική μελέτη μοριακών τεχνικών και ανοσοφθορισμού στην ανίχνευση κυκλοφορούντων καρκινικών κυττάρων στο αίμα ασθενών με καρκίνο του μαστού
Authors: Πολιτάκη Ελένη
Published: February 2023

Εισαγωγή: Πολλές τεχνολογίες απομόνωσης και ανίχνευσης των κυκλοφορούντων καρκινικών κυττάρων (circulating tumor cells, CTCs ή ΚΚΚ) έχουν αναπτυχθεί τα τελευταία χρόνια με ραγδαίο ρυθμό. Παρ΄ όλα αυτά η ασυμφωνία μεταξύ των διαφορετικών μεθόδων είναι μεγάλη, γεγονός που δυσχεραίνει την εφαρμογή τους στην καθημερινή κλινική πράξη. Σε αυτή την μελέτη, σκοπός είναι να συγκρίνουμε τρεις μεθοδολογίες ανίχνευσης των κυττάρων στο αίμα ασθενών με μεταστατικό και πρώιμο καρκίνο μαστού: την ποσοτική αλυσιδωτή αντίδραση της πολυμεράσης πραγματικού χρόνου [Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR)] για την ανίχνευση του mRNA της κυτταροκερατίνης 19 [Cytokeratin 19 (CK19)], τον ανοσοφθορισμό σε επιστρωμένες αντικειμενοφόρες πλάκες και το εγκεκριμένο από τον Αμερικάνικο Οργανισμό Τροφίμων και Φαρμάκων (Food and Drug Administration, FDA) σύστημα Cell Search (Menarini, Silicon Biosystems, Italy), καθώς και να εκτιμήσουμε την αποτελεσματικότητα της ανίχνευσης σε σχέση με την κλινική έκβαση των ασθενών. Μέθοδοι: 200 ασθενείς με πρώιμο καρκίνο μαστού και 164 με μεταστατικό καρκίνο μαστού ελέγχθησαν πριν την έναρξη συμπληρωματικής ή πρώτης γραμμής θεραπείας χρησιμοποιώντας το σύστημα Cell Search , την RT-qPCR για την ανίχνευση του CK-19 mRNA και την τεχνική του ανοσοφθορισμού για την ανίχνευση των CTCs.Αποτελέσματα: Με το Cell Search System, το ποσοστό των ασθενών με πρώιμη νόσο που είχαν CTCs (cut off ≥1 και ≥2 CTCs σε 23 ml αίματος) ήταν 37% και 16.5% αντίστοιχα, με RT-qPCR 18.0% και με ανοσοφθορισμό 16.9%. Μεταξύ των μεθόδων δεν υπήρξε συμφωνία. Όσον αφορά στους μεταστατικούς ασθενείς, με το Cell Search System, ανιχνεύτηκαν CTCs στο 34.8% και 53.7% των ασθενών αντίστοιχα (για ≥ 5 και ≥ 2 CTCs σε 7.5 ml αίματος), με RT-qPCR 37.8% και με ανοσοφθορισμό 28.5%. Μία στατιστικά σημαντική συμφωνία παρατηρήθηκε μεταξύ του Cell Search System και της RT-qPCR. Σε ποσοστό 60.8% των περιπτώσεων, διαφορετική έκφραση του EpCAM (Epithelial cell adhesion molecule) και της CK-19 στα CTCs με ανοσοφθορισμό θα μπορούσε να εξηγήσει εν μέρει τις διαφωνίες μεταξύ CellSearch System και RT-qPCR. Στην ομάδα των ασθενών με μεταστατική νόσο η ανίχνευση των CTCs με οποιαδήποτε από τις τρείς μεθόδους σχετίζονταν με μειωμένη συνολική επιβίωση. Συμπέρασμα: Μία στατιστικά σημαντική συμφωνία παρατηρήθηκε όσον αφορά την ανίχνευση των CTCs με την τεχνολογία Cell Search System και RT-qPCR στους μεταστατικούς ασθενείς και όχι στους ασθενείς με πρώιμη νόσο μαστού. Εξαιτίας της ετερογένειας των καρκινικών κυττάρων, κάποιες διαφορές μεταξύ των αποτελεσμάτων θα μπορούσαν να δικαιολογηθούν. Η ανίχνευση των CTCs με όλες τις μεθόδους αποδείχθηκε ότι είχε προγνωστική σημασία στις ασθενείς με μεταστατική νόσο.
Spatial transcriptomics dimensionality reduction using wavelet bases
Authors: Xu Zhuoyan , Sankaran Kris
Published: February 2023

Background: Spatially resolved transcriptomics (ST) measures gene expression along with the spatial coordinates of the measurements. The analysis of ST data involves significant computation complexity. In this work, we propose a gene expression dimensionality reduction algorithm that retains spatial structure.

Methods: We combine the wavelet transformation with matrix factorization to select spatially-varying genes. We extract a low-dimensional representation of these genes. We adopt an Empirical Bayes perspective, imposing regularization through the prior distribution of factor genes. Additionally, we visualize the extracted representations, providing an overview of global spatial patterns. We illustrate the performance of our methods through spatial structure recovery and gene expression reconstruction using a simulation and real data analysis.

Results: In real data experiments, our method identifies spatial structure of gene factors and outperforms regular decomposition regarding reconstruction error. We find a connection between the fluctuation of gene patterns and wavelet estimates, and this allows us to provide smoother visualizations. We develop the package and share the workflow generating reproducible quantitative results and gene visualization. The package is available at https://github.com/OliverXUZY/waveST.

Conclusions: We have proposed a pipeline for dimensionality reduction that respects spatial structure. Both simulations and real data experiments demonstrate that wavelet and shrinkage techniques show positive results in spatially resolved transcriptomics data. We highlight the idea of combining image processing techniques and statistical methods for application in a spatial genomics context
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in nursing homes – the experience of care workers in Poland
Authors: Necel Ryszard
Published: February 2023

Background: Nursing homes in Poland are the most common formal care institutions for dependent people. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, nursing homes had particularly high infection rates. In this context, it is important to ask about the experiences of the care workers working in these institutions.

Methods: This research was conducted using the computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) technique in five provinces in Poland. The field research was carried out in April 2021. The research sample included, among others, nurses, care workers, therapists, social workers and the management staff of institutions whose representatives worked during the COVID-19 pandemic. Respondents were asked to assess the care provided to residents.

Results: It turned out that the vast majority of respondents positively assessed the fulfillment of the basic living needs of residents and the availability of care. The assessment of the organization of residents’ leisure time, the fulfillment of their religious and cultural needs, and the issue of maintaining contacts with the social environment was less satisfactory. The article also describes the results of care institution employees’ self-assessment of their mental health. For the majority, the most stressful factor was the need to work in a health-threatening environment and the sense of responsibility for the residents. Regarding the availability of the forms of support offered to workers experiencing deteriorating mental health due to working in the pandemic situation, more than a third said that their institution did not offer any form of assistance.

Conclusions: The article lists a number of recommendations. In the light of the data obtained, it is necessary to increase the intensity of services provided to residents of nursing homes in terms of organizing their free time, meeting their religious and cultural needs and maintaining contact with the social environment.