bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adverse events associated with Pegaspargase biosimilar in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A prospective single-center study
Authors: Panda Bijoy Kumar , Gaikwad Mahima , Bafna Vibha , Vaidya Neela , Aundhe Vishal , Mhatre Angha
Published: July 2023

Background

While Pegaspargase is an essential component of the treatment of acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL) in children, it causes adverse events (AEs) that sometimes make full use impossible.

Objective

The objective was to investigate the safety of Pegaspargase biosimilar in pediatric ALL patients undergoing treatment according to ICiCLe ALL-14 protocol.

Method and Materials

A prospective study was carried out in a university teaching hospital located in the state of Maharashtra, India. Data on clinical factors and adverse reaction characteristics were gathered from hospital medical records. Suspected AEs were classified according to causality and severity.

Results

During the study period, 72 children had 52 suspicions of AEs during treatment with biosimilar Pegaspargase. The odds ratio of 1.11 (95%CI, 0.41–2.98) suggested that males and females were both equally likely to experience adverse drug events, despite the fact that the frequency of suspected AEs was higher in boys (66%) than in girls (33%). None of the patients experienced allergic reactions. The high-risk category had the highest number of suspected AEs (56%), followed by intermediate risk (20%) and standard risk (20%). These patients showed a high frequency of suspected AEs during the induction phase (43%) followed by the consolidation phase (26%). Sixty percent of the reactions were classified as grade 1 or 2. ALL cell type ( p = 0.02), risk category ( p = 0.04) and length of hospitalization ( p = 0.003) were significantly correlated with suspected AEs.

Conclusion

Bio-similar Pegaspargase in combination with chemotherapy was safe and tolerable in the pediatric ALL patients treated according to ICiCLe ALL-14 protocol. Suspected AEs ranged from mild to moderate and hepatic failure and hyperglycemia being severe.
Risk factors and incidence of peripheral venous catheters-related phlebitis between 2017 and 2021: A multicentre study (Flebitis Zero Project)
Authors: Cernuda Martínez José Antonio , Suárez Mier María Belén , Martínez Ortega María del Carmen , Casas Rodríguez Raquel , Villafranca Renes Carmelo , Del Río Pisabarro Camino
Published: July 2023

Background:

The peripheral venous catheter is one of the most frequently used devices in inpatient units worldwide. The risk of complications arising from use of peripheral venous catheters is low, but phlebitis frequently develops.

Methods:

A multicentre, prospective cohort study was conducted in 65 Spanish hospitals on 10,247 inpatients who had had a total of 38,430 peripheral venous catheters inserted. Data were collected for 15 consecutive days in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. Central tendency and dispersion were measured, cumulative incidence and incidence density were determined and odds ratios (OR) were also calculated using binary logistic regression.

Results:

The incidence density of phlebitis, during the period from 2017 to 2021, was 1.82 cases of phlebitis per 100 venous catheter-days. The difference between average cumulative incidence of phlebitis per year was statistically significant as determined by ANOVA test results ( F = 10.51; df = 4; p < 0.000). Unequivocal risk factors for phlebitis were revealed to be hospitals with more than 500 beds (OR = 1.507; p < 0.001), patients suffering from neoplastic disease (OR = 1.234; p < 0.001) and the first 3–4 days after insertion (OR = 1.159; p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

A correct knowledge of insertion technique and venous catheter maintenance is likely to reduce the incidence of phlebitis and other complications, and hence continuing education of nurses is essential.
Insights into Omicron’s Low Fusogenicity through In Silico Molecular Studies on Spike-Furin Interactions
Authors: Mondol Spencer Mark , Hasib Md , Limon Md. Belayet Hasan , Alam A S M Rubayet Ul
Published: July 2023

The Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron variant and its subvariants have a unique set of mutations. Two of those mutations (N679 K and P681 H) reside close to the S1 /S2 furin cleavage site (FCS; 685-686). When these mutations reside together, they exert less-efficient membrane fusion than wild type and most other variants of concern such as the Delta variant. Here, we in silico targeted these mutations to find out which of the amino acids and interactions change plays the key role in fusion. To comprehend the epistatic effect of N679 K and P681 H mutations on the spike protein, we in silico constructed three types of spike protein sequences by changing the respective amino acids on 679 and 681 positions (P681 H, N679 K, K679 N-H681 P variants). We then analyzed the binding affinity of furin and spike (Furin-Wild, Furin-Omicron, Furin-P681 H, Furin-N679 K, and Furin-K679 N/H681 P) complexes. Omicron and P681 H variants showed a similar higher binding energy trend compared to the wild type and N679 K. The variation in hydrogen, hydrophobic, and salt bridge bonds between spike protein and furin provided an explanation for the observed low fusogenicity of Omicron. The fate of the epistasis in furin binding and possible cleavage depends on the efficient interaction between FCS in spike and furin catalytic triad, and in addition, the loss of the hydrogen bond between Arg 681 (spike) and Asn 295 (furin) along with inhibitor-like ineffective higher affinity plays an important role in the enzymatic activity.
The tribological performance analysis of palm olein-based grease lubricants containing copper nanoparticle additive
Authors: Muhammad Arif Izzuddin , Mohd Yusof Nurul Farhana , Ripin Zaidi Mohd
Published: July 2023

Mineral oil-based lubricants have been widely used for their beneficial properties. However, their environmental impact and toxicity have raised concerns, resulting in a search for sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. This study investigates the tribological behavior of palm olein-based grease with copper nanoparticles additive concentrations of 0.25 and 0.50 wt%. The friction and wear tests were conducted using a four-ball tribometer to evaluate the performance of the formulated grease and compare it with commercial mineral grease. The results showed that the palm olein-based grease with a 0.25 wt% copper nanoparticle additive concentration had excellent lubricant performance, with low friction and wear prevention characteristics. This concentration of Cu nanoparticles led to a 35.05% reduction in average friction coefficient (COF), a 32.56% reduction in wear scar diameter (WSD), and a 48.02% reduction in wear volume compared to pure palm olein-based grease.
Evolution of microstructure, microhardness, crystallographic texture, and grain size variation in dissimilar joints used in concentrated solar power plants application
Authors: Nandhakumar S , Gokul Kumar K
Published: July 2023

High carbon stainless steel 347H (SS347H) and Inconel 625 (IN625) are high-strength alloys, commonly used in high-temperature applications. These metals are commonly used in the fabrication of concentrated solar power energy storage tanks and pipelines. Construction of such tanks involves dissimilar welding as the primary manufacturing process. The critical factor to consider when joining two different materials is the development of microstructure, as it directly impacts the mechanical characteristics of the joints. According to the available literature, an increase in the heat input (HI) promotes alloying element segregation and susceptibility to weld cracking. Traditional arc welding processes, such as metal inert gas (MIG) welding, produce a higher HI. Therefore, there is a need to develop welding techniques that result in reduced HI. In the present study, a pulse-current MIG (PC-MIG) welding method was employed, utilizing current pulsing to minimize HI during the welding process. The welding was followed by metallographic and mechanical characterization. The microstructural examination found variations in microstructure at different regions. Electron backscatter diffraction analysis shows the crystallographic orientation at different regions. Analysis shows that both SS347H and IN625 have a face-centred cubic austenite structure. The inverse pole figure discloses strong texture formation. The average tensile strength of dissimilar weldments was found to be 479 MPa, while the average hardness value of the fusion zone was measured to be 235 HV. The research indicates that the PC-MIG technique is suitable for joining dissimilar materials with reduced HI, effectively eliminating the risk of cracking and enhancing the efficiency of the joint.
“Give me the knowledge, and I can do what I want with it, it’s my right and my choice”: Triangulated perspectives on the disclosure of young onset dementia
Authors: Fox Siobhán , Foley Tony , Cahill Suzanne , Kilty Caroline
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Receiving a diagnosis of young onset dementia is particularly distressing; the person under 65 years is often in employment, with financial commitments, young children, and an active social life. Some of the stress experienced by younger people experiencing cognitive changes can be reduced by an early and accurate diagnosis, but this is contingent on the timing of disclosure and a process which is sensitive and appropriate to the person. The study aim was to explore experiences of giving and receiving a diagnosis of young onset dementia, by triangulating the perspectives of the key parties involved.

Methods

A qualitative design was employed, using semi-structured interviews. Participants ( N = 47) included people with young onset dementia ( n = 10), family members ( n = 12), and health and social care professionals ( n = 25). Thematic analysis and triangulation enabled identification of overall themes across different participant groups.

Results

All participant groups agreed on key aspects of good disclosure practice, with two overarching themes: The optimal conditions for disclosure, and how best to disclose a diagnosis. Positive experiences of disclosure were prefaced on having the appropriate space and time; having a support person present; clearly labelling the diagnosis; providing appropriate information at the right pace. Other findings include recommendations for longer appointment times, offering additional support for young families, and for carers of people with atypical presentations (e.g. frontotemporal dementia).

Conclusion

Many people with young onset dementia had unsatisfactory disclosure experiences. Health and social care professionals should provide a ‘pre-disclosure’ appointment, elicit the amount of information the person may want at the point of disclosure of the diagnosis, balance truth and hope, provide contact details for follow-up, and overall be mindful of the individual in front of them. While young onset dementia may be a life-altering diagnosis, a disclosure meeting which is sensitively undertaken can increase the person’s agency, coping ability, and ultimately empower them to live well with their diagnosis.
Normative Processing Needs Multiple Levels of Explanation: From Algorithm to Implementation
Authors: Vogel Todd , Lockwood Patricia L.
Published: July 2023

Norms are the rules about what is allowed or forbidden by social groups. A key debate for norm psychology is whether these rules arise from mechanisms that are domain-specific and genetically inherited or domain-general and deployed for many other nonnorm processes. Here we argue for the importance of assessing and testing domain-specific and domain-general processes at multiple levels of explanation, from algorithmic (psychological) to implementational (neural). We also critically discuss findings from cognitive neuroscience supporting that social and nonsocial learning processes, essential for accounts of cultural evolution, can be dissociated at these two levels. This multilevel framework can generate new hypotheses and empirical tests of cultural evolution accounts of norm processing against purely domain-specific nativist alternatives.
The oddity of desiring informality
Authors: Cobbinah Patrick Brandful
Published: July 2023

Informality has become central to urban sustainability and one of the most polemically debated topics in modern urban studies and human geography. Finn's analysis intends to bring critical geo-historical colonial research to this debate and remains an important contribution. In this essay, my main argument – which expands on Finn's work – is that informality in its current conception does not comprehend fully the colonial and neocolonial structures in Africa and fails to engage deeply enough to recognize informality's indispensability and alter existing notions and patterns of inequalities. I reflect on the embodiment of informality as Africa's urban culture and argue for its support to deliver sustainable outcomes.
A quantum model of climate change? Insights from community-based natural resource management in Namibia
Authors: Heffernan Andrew , Murphy Michael P. A.
Published: July 2023

Quantum approaches to International Relations (IR) offer theoretically rich explanatory frameworks attuned to the complexity and uncertainty of the social world. Recognizing that the payoff of quantum approaches to IR may be clarified through their application to empirical cases, we approach the radically complex and uncertain case of climate change's impacts on Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) in Namibia from a quantum perspective. Established to protect the vibrant flora and fauna of Namibia while also promoting community and economic development aims, CBNRM conservancies face complex challenges from climate change. Inspired by Karen O’Brien's call for ‘quantum social change’ in our response to climate change, we draw on the quantum social theory to unpack how desertification, extreme weather patterns, and drought conditions radically reshape the possibilities available to conservancies, communities, farmers, and the state itself. By conceptualizing futures as wavefunctions encompassing the spectrum of potential future states, we demonstrate how a quantum imaginary can help to develop novel explanatory frameworks for the complexity of the world around us.
Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies Among Healthy Children From Colorado From 2020 to 2021: A Brief Report
Authors: Frost Holly M. , Geno Rasmussen Cristy , Shorrosh Hanan , Pyle Laura , Bautista Kimberly , Frohnert Brigitte I. , Stahl Marisa , Simmons Kimber , Steck Andrea K. , Jia Xiaofan , Yu Liping , Rewers Marian
Published: July 2023

There are few estimates of the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among children in the United States. We measured vaccine and infection induced seroprevalence among nearly 5000 healthy 1 to 17-year-old children in Colorado from 2020 to 2021. By December 2021, 89% of older children, ages 12 to 18, had antibodies detected. The increase was largely driven from vaccination rather than infection.
Impact of Undergoing Thoracolumbar Surgery on Patient Psychosocial Profiles
Authors: Rogers Samantha , Manson Neil , Bigney Erin , McPhee Rory , Vandewint Amanda , Richardson Eden , El-Mughayyar Dana , Abraham Edward
Published: July 2023

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Objective

Investigate the impact of thoracolumbar surgery on patients’ psychosocial profiles.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of thoracolumbar surgery patients (N = 177). Measures of interest collected at baseline and 24-months after surgery were: modified Oswestry Disability Index (mODI), Numerical Rating Scores for Back Pain (NRS-B), Leg Pain (NRS-L), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire-8 (CPAQ-8), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Mental Component Summary (MCS) and patient expectations for surgery impacts on mental well-being. Cohorts were separated based on attaining meaningful change defined as either 30% improvement or minimal scores in NRS-B, NRS-L and mODI. Mixed measures ANOVAs were run (α = .05).

Results

Patients who showed meaningful change had significant improvements in PCS, TSK and CPAQ-8 scores but not in MSPSS scores. Patients had improvement in MCS scores over 24-months follow-up, but this change was not significantly different based on attainment of meaningful change. Overall, 75.9% of patients reported their mental well-being expectations were met. Patients who did not achieve meaningful change showed no change on any psychosocial measures with only 55.9% reporting their mental well-being expectations met.

Conclusion

Thoracolumbar surgery results in significant improvement of psychosocial variables for patients who experienced meaningful change for pain and disability. Worsening of psychosocial health was not evident in patients who did not attain meaningful change.
Intercultural Communication Challenges in IT Companies in India: A Case Study
Authors: Bharadwaj Apoorva
Published: July 2023

This case study tries to diagnose the intercultural communication challenges besetting the Indian IT industry, which has become a major IT hub globally, so as to map the relevance of the theories proposed by prominent interculturalists in the contemporary work settings. The article explores answers to the research questions formulated on the basis of intercultural theories by analyzing the responses of 178 IT managers collected over a period of 38 months of rigorous field work. The article closes with implications of this case study for the executive training needs of the Indian engineers requiring an ethno-relative focus in intercultural communications.
BPACE: A Bayesian, Patient-Centered Procedure for Matrix Speech Tests in Noise
Authors: Schmid Christoph , Wimmer Wilhelm , Kompis Martin
Published: July 2023

Matrix sentence tests in noise can be challenging to the listener and time-consuming. A trade-off should be found between testing time, listener’s comfort and the precision of the results. Here, a novel test procedure based on an updated maximum likelihood method was developed and implemented in a German matrix sentence test. It determines the parameters of the psychometric function (threshold, slope, and lapse-rate) without constantly challenging the listener at the intelligibility threshold. A so-called “credible interval” was used as a mid-run estimate of reliability and can be used as a termination criterion for the test. The procedure was evaluated and compared to a STAIRCASE procedure in a study with 20 cochlear implant patients and 20 normal hearing participants. The proposed procedure offers comparable accuracy and reliability to the reference method, but with a lower listening effort, as rated by the listeners ([Formula: see text] points on a 10-point scale). Test duration can be reduced by 1.3 min on average when a credible interval of 2 dB is used as the termination criterion instead of testing 30 sentences. Particularly, normal hearing listeners and well performing, cochlear implant users can benefit from shorter test duration. Although the novel procedure was developed for a German test, it can easily be applied to tests in any other language.
Assessment of drug-related problems associated with narrow therapeutic index drugs: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Chhatrala Charmi Manoj , M Bhanu Kumar , Madhan Ramesh , Chalasani Sri Harsha , Syed Jehath , Pal Nikita
Published: July 2023

Background

A narrow therapeutic index drug (NTID) has a narrow window between its effective doses and doses that can cause adverse toxic effects, necessitating strict monitoring for drug safety. This study aimed to identify and classify the drug-related problems (DRPs) associated with the use of NTI drugs.

Method

A prospective cohort study was carried out in the in-patient departments of General Medicine, Paediatrics, Cardiology, and Neurology at a tertiary care hospital over a nine-month period. Patients of either gender receiving at least one NTID included after obtaining their consent. The patients were followed until their discharge for any DRP occurrence. The list of the NTIDs was compiled through a review of literature review and the hospital's formulary. Hepler & Strand's classification was adopted to classify the identified DRPs. The odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to determine the predictors for DRP occurrence.

Results

A total of 241 DRPs associated with NTIDs were identified among 120 patients. Drug–drug interactions accounted for 61% of the DRPs, followed by subtherapeutic dosing (18.26%) and adverse drug reactions (9.96%). On average, each patient experienced 2.74 DRPs. The predictors for DRP occurrence included gender (odds ratio [OR] 2.65, p = .012), comorbid conditions (OR 2.947, p < .001), polypharmacy involving more than 11 drugs (OR 3.987, p < .033), and a hospital stay exceeding 7 days (OR 1.087, p = .022).

Conclusion

Despite providing the best therapeutic care, DRPs associated with NTIDs persist and can compromise patient safety. Therefore, involving clinical pharmacists in the early detection of DRPs can enhance overall patient safety.
Mental Health Disorders Post-Stroke: A Scenario in India
Authors: Patra Abhilash , Kamalakannan Sureshkumar , Pant Hira B. , Agiwal Varun , A.Y. Nirupama , Chaudhuri Sirshendu , Murthy Gudlavalleti S.
Published: July 2023

Mental health disorders were reported in more than 33% of stroke survivors, which lead to increased comorbidities, delayed care, affect recovery, and impact physical and social functioning. Furthermore, it diminishes the quality of life and has impact on the well-being of both their families and caregivers. However, existing screening tools available for diagnosis of mental health disorders post-stroke detect many undiagnosed and underreported stroke survivors. Globally and in India, there has been a significant prevalence of post-stroke depression and anxiety. Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) ranged from 11% to 34%, worldwide. However, in India, only few case reports were reported for post-stroke psychosis, mania, and PBA. Although guidelines exist in developed countries for screening, referral, and rehabilitation of mental health disorders, there are lack of such resources in India. Also, the District Mental Health Program (DMHP) has received conflicting evaluations regarding its successes and shortcomings. Hence, this situation highlights the need for robust evidence-based strategies to develop effective screening, referral, and rehabilitation guidelines tailored to the Indian context. Also, by leveraging existing resources and collaborating with experts in the field, India can develop a comprehensive and effective approach to addressing post-stroke mental health disorders.
Tree flexing: Forest politics and land struggles in the green economy
Authors: Böhm Steffen
Published: July 2023

Planting trees is widely regarded as a positive contribution to combating climate change and establishing a future-proof, green economy. Yet, there is mounting evidence from many tropical, sub-tropical and temperate regions of the world that tree plantations can have multiple negative economic, social and environmental impacts. These are not always accounted for by the private and public institutions who have heavily supported the forestry sector in recent decades. This ‘tropical provocation’ reports from a recent fieldtrip to the Wallmapu, the region the Mapuche Indigenous people call their ancestral homeland. There, I saw with my own eyes that the so-called green economy does not work for Mapuche communities, as they experience extreme water shortages, wildfires and other plundering from what they regard as their territory.
Sedimentology of the Jura Molasse: Miocene tidal clastics and freshwater carbonates from the Tramelan-2 Borehole, NW Switzerland
Authors: Platt Nigel H. , Matter Albert
Published: July 2023

The Tramelan-2 borehole (Canton Bern, Switzerland) continuously cored a 275.60 m sequence of Palaeogene to Neogene sediments, providing a rare opportunity for sedimentological analysis of the Jura Molasse. Lithostratigraphy, sedimentary facies and heavy minerals allow correlation with the classical Swiss Molasse. Evidence for clastic input from Alpine and non-Alpine sources is consistent with deposition at the northern feather edge of the Molasse Basin. Grey sandstones at the base of the succession are tentatively interpreted as fluvial facies of the Lower Freshwater Molasse (USM). These are overlain by erosively-based conglomerates, interpreted as winnowed storm lags of locally-derived clasts and distantly-sourced Alpine material at the transgressive base of the Upper Marine Molasse (OMM). Above this, a range of plane-laminated and cross-bedded bioclastic sandstones are interpreted as the deposits of a meso- or macrotidal flat or estuarine complex. Facies evolution in the upper OMM records a series of stacked regressive cycles within an overall upward trend of reducing current energy, reflecting a transition from offshore to nearshore shallow marine environments. The unconformably overlying Upper Freshwater Molasse (OSM) passes upwards from micaceous siltstones and marls into a series of freshwater carbonates, dominated by lacustrine limestones which are arranged in repeated regressive cycles, each capped by organic-rich horizons. The middle part of the carbonate interval comprises palustrine limestones with pedogenetic fabrics recording periodic subaerial exposure. Stable isotope signatures from the palustrine facies reflect subaerial pedogenetic overprint, while the lacustrine carbonates record cyclical variations in δ13C which may reflect increases in organic material during progressive lake fill and/or an increased influence of aquifer waters during flooding events. The Jura Molasse onlapped a Mesozoic carbonate pediment hosting a regional karst system which remained active at least until the Burdigalian transgression on footwall highs bounding the Delémont Basin, and locally into the Langhian near Tramelan. This configuration controlled subsequent deposition of OSM carbonates which onlapped erosional and potentially early tectonic relief, and were deposited in groundwater-fed seasonal lacustrine/palustrine environments, where the karstic aquifer controls on seasonal hydrology appear to have been comparable to Caribbean freshwater carbonate wetland systems today.
The risk may not be limited to flooding: polluted flood sediments pose a human health threat to the unaware public
Authors: Weber Alexandra , Wolf Stefanie , Becker Nadine , Märker-Neuhaus Leonie , Bellanova Piero , Brüll Catrina , Hollert Henner , Klopries Elena-Maria , Schüttrumpf Holger , Lehmkuhl Frank
Published: July 2023

Background

Because of global climate change, extreme flood events are expected to increase in quantity and intensity in the upcoming decades. In catchments affected by ore mining, flooding leads to the deposition of fine sediments enriched in trace metal(loid)s. Depending on their concentration, trace metal(loid)s can be a health hazard. Therefore, exposure of the local population to flood sediments, either by ingestion (covering direct ingestion and consuming food grown on these sediments) or via inhalation of dried sediments contributing to atmospheric particulate matter, is of concern.

Results

The extreme flood of July 2021 deposited large amounts of sediment across the town of Eschweiler (western Germany), with the inundation area exceeding previously mapped extreme flood limits (HQextreme). These sediments are rich in fine material (with the < 63 µm fraction making up 32% to 96%), which either can stick to the skin and be ingested or inhaled. They are moderately to heavily enriched in Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd > Sn compared to local background concentrations. The concentrations of Zn, Pb, Cd, Cu, and As in flood sediments exceed international trigger action values. A simple assessment of inhalation and ingestion by humans reveals that the tolerable daily intake is exceeded for Pb. Despite the enrichment of other trace elements like Zn, Cu, Cd, and Sn, they presumably do not pose a risk to human well-being. However, exposure to high dust concentrations may be a health risk.

Conclusions

In conclusion, flood sediments, especially in catchments impacted by mining, may pose a risk to the affected public. Hence, we propose to (I) improve the flood mapping by incorporating potential pollution sources; (II) extend warning messages to incorporate specific guidance; (III) use appropriate clean-up strategies in the aftermath of such flooding events; (IV) provide medical support, and (V) clue the public and medical professionals in on this topic accordingly.

Graphical Abstract
Landscape of internal N7-methylguanosine of long non-coding RNA modifications in resistant acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Han Jingyi , Liu Qinqin , Zhou Yao , Li Dong , Wang Ran
Published: July 2023

Background

Growing evidence indicates that RNA methylation plays a fundamental role in epigenetic regulation, which is associated with the tumorigenesis and drug resistance. Among them, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as the top acute leukemia for adults, is a deadly disease threatening human health. Although N7-methylguanosine (m7G) has been identified as an important regulatory modification, its distribution has still remained elusive.

Methods

The present study aimed to explore the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) functional profile of m7G in AML and drug-resistant AML cells. The transcriptome-wide m7G methylation of lncRNA was analyzed in AML and drug-resistant AML cells. RNA MeRIP-seq was performed to identify m7G peaks on lncRNA and differences in m7G distribution between AML and drug-resistant AML cells. The Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted to predict the possible roles and m7G-associated pathway.

Results

Using m7G peak sequencing, it was found that a sequence motif was necessary for m7G methylation in drug-resistant AML lncRNA. Unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis confirmed that lncRNA m7G methylation occurred more frequently in drug-resistant AML cells than in AML cells. RNA sequencing demonstrated that more genes were upregulated by methylation in drug-resistant AML cells, while methylation downregulated more genes in AML cells. The GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses revealed that genes having a significant correlation with m7G sites in lncRNA were involved in drug-resistant AML signaling pathways.

Conclusion

Significant differences in the levels and patterns of m7G methylation between drug-resistant AML cells and AML cells were revealed. Furthermore, the cellular functions potentially influenced by m7G in drug-resistant AML cells were predicted, providing evidence implicating m7G-mediated lncRNA epigenetic regulation in the progression of drug resistance in AML. These findings highlight the involvement of m7G in the development of drug resistance in AML.
Identification of crucial genes related to heart failure based on GEO database
Authors: Chen Yongliang , Xue Jing , Yan Xiaoli , Fang Da-guang , Li Fangliang , Tian Xuefei , Yan Peng , Feng Zengbin
Published: July 2023

Background

The molecular biological mechanisms underlying heart failure (HF) remain poorly understood. Therefore, it is imperative to use innovative approaches, such as high-throughput sequencing and artificial intelligence, to investigate the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and potential treatment of HF.

Methods

First, we initially screened Two data sets (GSE3586 and GSE5406) from the GEO database containing HF and control samples from the GEO database to establish the Train group, and selected another dataset (GSE57345) to construct the Test group for verification. Next, we identified the genes with significantly different expression levels in patients with or without HF and performed functional and pathway enrichment analyses. HF-specific genes were identified, and an artificial neural network was constructed by Random Forest. The ROC curve was used to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of the constructed model in the Train and Test groups. Finally, immune cell infiltration was analyzed to determine the role of the inflammatory response and the immunological microenvironment in the pathogenesis of HF.

Results

In the Train group, 153 significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with HF were found to be abnormal, including 81 down-regulated genes and 72 up-regulated genes. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that the down-regulated genes were primarily enriched in organic anion transport, neutrophil activation, and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. The upregulated genes were mainly enriched in neutrophil activation and the calcium signaling. DEGs were identified using Random Forest, and finally, 16 HF-specific genes were obtained. In the ROC validation and evaluation, the area under the curve (AUC) of the Train and Test groups were 0.996 and 0.863, respectively.

Conclusions

Our research revealed the potential functions and pathways implicated in the progression of HF, and designed an RNA diagnostic model for HF tissues using machine learning and artificial neural networks. Sensitivity, specificity, and stability were confirmed by ROC curves in the two different cohorts.
Gut microbiota analyses of inflammatory bowel diseases from a representative Saudi population
Authors: Alsulaiman Raed M. , Al-Quorain Abdulaziz A. , Al-Muhanna Fahad A. , Piotrowski Stanley , Kurdi Ezzeddin A. , Vatte Chittibabu , Alquorain Ahmed A. , Alfaraj Noorah H. , Alrezuk Abdulaziz M. , Robinson Fred , Dowdell Alexa K. , Alamri Turki A. , Hamilton Lauren , Lad Hetal , Gao Hui , Gandla Divya , Keating Brendan J. , Meng Ryan , Piening Brian , Al-Ali Amein K.
Published: July 2023

Background

Crohn’s diseases and ulcerative colitis, both of which are chronic immune-mediated disorders of the gastrointestinal tract are major contributors to the overarching Inflammatory bowel diseases. It has become increasingly evident that the pathological processes of IBDs results from interactions between genetic and environmental factors, which can skew immune responses against normal intestinal flora.

Methods

The aim of this study is to assess and analyze the taxa diversity and relative abundances in CD and UC in the Saudi population. We utilized a sequencing strategy that targets all variable regions in the 16 S rRNA gene using the Swift Amplicon 16 S rRNA Panel on Illumina NovaSeq 6000.

Results

The composition of stool 16 S rRNA was analyzed from 219 patients with inflammatory bowel disease and from 124 healthy controls. We quantified the abundance of microbial communities to examine any significant differences between subpopulations of samples. At the genus level, two genera in particular, Veillonella and Lachnoclostridium showed significant association with CD versus controls. There were significant differences between subjects with CD versus UC, with the top differential genera spanning Akkermansia, Harryflintia, Maegamonas and Phascolarctobacterium. Furthermore, statistically significant taxa diversity in microbiome composition was observed within the UC and CD groups.

Conclusions

In conclusion we have shown that there are significant differences in gut microbiota between UC, CD and controls in a Saudi Arabian inflammatory bowel disease cohort. This reinforces the need for further studies in large populations that are ethnically and geographically diverse. In addition, our results show the potential to develop classifiers that may have add additional richness of context to clinical diagnosis of UC and CD with larger inflammatory bowel disease cohorts.
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis presenting as a solitary renal mass: a case report
Authors: Higashihara Mai , Kawamura Tetsuya , Miyazaki Yoichi , Yokoo Takashi , Joh Kensuke
Published: July 2023

Background

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is characterized by necrotizing granulomatous vasculitis involving small-sized vessels in the upper airways, lower airways, and kidneys. Renal pathology is usually characterized by focal segmental necrotizing glomerulonephritis, which often leads to rapidly progressive renal failure. This type of renal involvement is usually unapparent on radiography. The presence of a renal mass in a patient with GPA, although extremely rare, is recognizable. Herein, we report a rare case of GPA presenting as a solitary renal mass and present a review of the literature.

Case presentation

A 75-year-old woman presented with a solitary right kidney mass measuring 4 × 3.5 cm detected by enhanced computed tomography. There was no history of sinusitis, rhinitis, cough, or pneumonia suggestive of systemic GPA. Nephrectomy was performed based on the suspicion of renal cell carcinoma or malignant lymphoma. Three months later, she was admitted because her serum creatinine levels increased from 54.81 μmol/L to 405.76 μmol/L accompanied by a high C-reactive protein level of 159 mg/L. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies against myeloperoxidase and anti-proteinase 3 were negative. Histological examinations of the solitary renal mass revealed necrotizing granulomatous arteritis in the cortex and medullary vasa recta, surrounded by interstitial fibrosis, and focal segmental necrotizing glomerulonephritis in the localized lesion; however, signs of vasculitis were not observed in areas other than the solitary mass. Therefore, the patient was diagnosed with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). Despite treatment with prednisolone (30 mg/day), the patient developed oliguria with an elevation of her serum creatinine level to 583.44 μmol/L, which required hemodialysis within one month after the initiation of steroid therapy. The patient could successfully discontinue hemodialysis 21 months later, following a decrease in her serum creatinine level to 251.06 μmol/L.

Conclusions

GPA should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses of a solitary renal mass. Furthermore, patients with solitary renal masses associated with GPA may exhibit a favorable response to steroid or immunosuppressive treatment.
A factor analytic comparison of three commonly used depression scales (HAMD, MADRS, BDI) in a large sample of depressed inpatients
Authors: Seemüller Florian , Schennach Rebecca , Musil Richard , Obermeier Michael , Adli Mazda , Bauer Michael , Brieger Peter , Laux Gerd , Gaebel Wolfgang , Falkai Peter , Riedel Michael , Möller Hans-Jürgen
Published: July 2023

Background

Quantifying depression mainly relies on the use of depression scales, and understanding their factor structure is crucial for evaluating their validity.

Methods

This post-hoc analysis utilized prospectively collected data from a naturalistic study of 1014 inpatients with major depression. Confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses were performed to test the psychometric abilities of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale, and the self-rated Beck Depression Inventory. A combined factor analysis was also conducted including all items of all scales.

Results

All three scales showed good to very good internal consistency. The HAMD-17 had four factors: an "anxiety" factor, a "depression" factor, an "insomnia" factor, and a "somatic" factor. The MADRS also had four factors: a “sadness” factor, a neurovegetative factor, a “detachment” factor and a “negative thoughts” factor, while the BDI had three factors: a "negative attitude towards self" factor, a "performance impairment" factor, and a "somatic" factor. The combined factor analysis suggested that self-ratings might reflect a distinct illness dimension within major depression.

Conclusions

The factors obtained in this study are comparable to those found in previous research. Self and clinician ratings are complementary and not redundant, highlighting the importance of using multiple measures to quantify depression.
Disparities in breast cancer mortality among Latin American women: trends and predictions for 2030
Authors: Torres-Román J. Smith , Ybaseta-Medina Jorge , Loli-Guevara Silvana , Bazalar-Palacios Janina , Valcarcel Bryan , Arce-Huamani Miguel A. , Alvarez Christian S , Hurtado-Roca Yamilee
Published: July 2023

Background

Breast cancer is among the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) women, but a comprehensive and updated analysis of mortality trends is lacking. The objective of this study was to determine the breast cancer mortality rates between 1997 and 2017 for LAC countries and predict mortality until 2030.

Methods

We retrieved breast cancer deaths across 17 LAC countries from the World Health Organization mortality database. Age-standardized mortality rates per 100,000 women-years were estimated. Mortality trends were evaluated with Joinpoint regression analyses by country and age group (all ages, < 50 years, and ≥ 50 years). By 2030, we predict number of deaths, mortality rates, changes in population structure and size, and the risk of death from breast cancer.

Results

Argentina, Uruguay, and Venezuela reported the highest mortality rates throughout the study period. Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua reported the largest increases (from 2.4 to 2.8% annually), whereas Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay reported downward trends (from − 1.0 to − 1.6% annually). In women < 50y, six countries presented downward trends and five countries showed increasing trends. In women ≥ 50y, three countries had decreased trends and ten showed increased trends. In 2030, increases in mortality are expected in the LAC region, mainly in Guatemala (+ 63.0%), Nicaragua (+ 47.3), El Salvador (+ 46.2%), Ecuador (+ 38.5%) and Venezuela (+ 29.9%).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest considerable differences in breast cancer mortality across LAC countries by age group. To achieve the 2030 sustainable developmental goals, LAC countries should implement public health strategies to reduce mortality by breast cancer.
Oral health literacy, knowledge and perceptions in a socially and culturally diverse population: a mixed methods study
Authors: King Shalinie , Thaliph Ayesha , Laranjo Liliana , Smith Ben J. , Eberhard Joerg
Published: July 2023

Background

Poor oral health literacy has been proposed as a causal factor in disparities in oral health outcomes. This study aims to investigate oral health literacy (OHL) in a socially and culturally diverse population of Australian adults visiting a public dental clinic in Western Sydney.

Methods

A mixed methods study where oral health literacy was assessed using the Health Literacy in Dentistry scale (HeLD-14) questionnaire and semi-structured interviews explored oral health related knowledge, perceptions and attitudes. Interviews were analysed using a thematic approach.

Results

A sample of 48 participants attending a public dental clinic in Western Sydney was recruited, with a mean age of 59.9 (SD16.2) years, 48% female, 50% born in Australia, 45% with high school or lower education, and 56% with low-medium OHL. A subgroup of 21 participants with a mean age of 68.1 (SD14.6) years, 40% female, 64% born in Australia, 56% with a high school or lower education, and 45% with low-medium OHL completed the interview. Three themes identified from the interviews included 1) attitudes and perceptions about oral health that highlighted a lack of agency and low prioritisation of oral health, 2) limited knowledge and education about the causes and consequences of poor oral health, including limited access to oral health education and finally 3) barriers and enablers to maintaining good oral health, with financial barriers being the main contributor to low OHL.

Conclusions

Strategies aimed at redressing disparities in oral health status should include improving access to oral health information. The focus should be on the impact poor oral health has on general health with clear messages about prevention and treatment options in order to empower individuals to better manage their oral health.
Prevalence and characteristics of metabolic syndrome and its components among adults living with and without HIV in Nigeria: a single-center study
Authors: Jumare Jibreel , Dakum Patrick , Sam-Agudu Nadia , Memiah Peter , Nowak Rebecca , Bada Florence , Oguama Uzoamaka , Odonye George , Adebiyi Ruxton , Cairo Cristiana , Kwaghe Vivian , Adebamowo Clement , Abimiku Alash’le , Charurat Man
Published: July 2023

Background

Persons living with HIV (PLHIV) now live longer due to effective combination antiretroviral therapy. However, emerging evidence indicates that they may be at increased risk for some cardiometabolic disorders. We compared the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its component disorders between persons living with and without HIV in Nigeria.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a prospective cohort study of non-communicable diseases among PLHIV along with age- and sex-matched persons without HIV (PWoH) at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital Nigeria. We collected sociodemographic and clinical data, including anthropometric measures and results of relevant laboratory tests. MetS was defined using a modification of the third report of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP ATP III) criteria.

Results

Of the 440 PLHIV and 232 PWoH, women constituted 50.5% and 51.3% respectively. The median age of the PLHIV was 45 years while that of the PWoH was 40 years. The prevalence of MetS was 30.7% (95% CI: 26.4%, 35.2%) and 22.8% (95% CI: 17.6%, 28.8%) among the PLHIV and PWoH respectively (P = 0.026). Independent associations were found for older age (P < 0.001), female sex (P < 0.001), family history of diabetes (P < 0.001), family history of hypertension (P = 0.013) and alcohol use (P = 0.015). The prevalence of component disorders for PLHIV versus PWoH were as follows: high blood pressure (22.3% vs 20.3%), prediabetes (33.8% vs 21.1%), diabetes (20.5% vs 8.2%), high triglycerides (24.5% vs 17.2%), low HDL-Cholesterol (51.1% vs 41.4%), and abdominal obesity (38.4% vs 37.1%). Adjusting for age and sex, prediabetes, diabetes, and low HDL-Cholesterol were significantly associated with HIV status. Duration on antiretroviral therapy, protease inhibitor-based regimen, CD4 count, and viral load were associated with some of the disorders mostly in unadjusted analyses.

Conclusion

We found a high burden of MetS and its component disorders, with significantly higher prevalence of dysglycemia and dyslipidemia among PLHIV as compared to PWoH. Integration of strategies for the prevention and management of MetS disorders is needed in HIV treatment settings.
Transcultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the spanish version of the therapeutic relationship Assessment Scale-Nurse
Authors: Roldán Merino Juan , Coelho Joana , Sampaio Francisco , Agüera Zaida , Puig Llobet Montserrat , Lluch Canut Teresa , Rodriguez Nogueira Oscar , Ventosa Ruiz Ana , Sequeira Carlos , Moreno Poyato Antonio R.
Published: July 2023

Background

The nurse-patient therapeutic relationship is considered a pillar of mental health nursing, contributing to improved person-centered care and shared decision making with the patient. Given the importance of the nurse-patient therapeutic relationship, appropriate evaluation instruments are required to assess its quality. The aim of this study was to adapt and validate the Spanish version of the Therapeutic Relationship Assessment Scale-Nurse.

Methods

A translation and back-translation of the scale was carried out. To analyze the psychometric properties, the scale was administered to 213 nurses working in the field of mental health care. Temporal stability or test-retest was examined by means of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) in a sample of 100 nurses.

Results

Confirmatory Factor Analysis revealed a four-factor structure identical to the original version, with some poor model fit indices. The ordinal alpha values for the total scale and the four factors were 0.939, 0.654, 0.798, 0.801, and 0.866, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.928 (95% CI: 0.893–0.952).

Conclusions

The results show that the Spanish version of the Therapeutic Relationship Assessment Scale-Nurse is reliable for determining the quality of the therapeutic relationship that mental health nurses can establish with their patients. However, more studies are needed to analyse the model fit of the instrument’s factor structure in the Spanish population.