bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Thymoquinone Alone or Combined with Swimming Exercise Protect against Microcystin‐LR‐Induced Oxidative Injury in Mice
Authors: Altyar Ahmed E. , Bekhet Amira Hassan , Kamel Mohamed , Albadrani Ghadeer M. , Kensara Osama A. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M.
Published: February 2023

Microcystin‐leucine‐arginine (MCLR) is the most abundant cyanotoxin produced by cyanobacteria. It induces potent cytotoxicity through oxidative stress and DNA damage. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a natural nutraceutical antioxidant derived from black cumin (Nigella sativa). Physical exercise (EX) improves whole‐body metabolic homeostasis. Therefore, this study examined the protective role of swimming exercise and TQ against MC‐induced toxicity in mice. Fifty‐six healthy adult male albino mice (25–30 g) were randomized into seven groups; group (I) was the negative control and received oral physiological saline for 21 days; group (II) received water EX for 30 min daily; group (III) was intraperitoneally injected with TQ (5 mg/kg daily, for 21 days); group (IV) was intraperitoneally administered MC (10 μg/kg daily, for 14 days) and acted as the positive toxic control; group (V) was treated with MC and water EX; group (VI) was injected with MC and TQ; finally, group (VII) was treated with MC with TQ and water EX. In comparison with the control group, the results showed hepatic, renal, and cardiac toxicity in the MCLR‐treated group, indicated by a significant increase (p < 0.05) in serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT), cholesterol, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase‐myocardial band (CK‐MB), urea, creatinine, interleukin‐6, interleukin ‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α levels. In addition, there were significant elevations (p < 0.05) in malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels and a significant decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in hepatic, cardiac, and renal tissues. Treatment with either TQ or water EX significantly improved (p < 0.05) the MC‐induced toxicity with superiority of the TQ group in the restoration of normal ranges; however, cotreatment with both TQ and swimming EX showed the most improvement and restoration to normal ranges as a result of increasing EX clinical efficacy by TQ.
Early Onset Outlet Obstruction of a Temporary Diverting Loop Ileostomy Secondary to Urinary Retention
Authors: Akova Umut , Dogru Volkan , Esen Eren , Remzi Feza
Published: February 2023

A mechanical obstruction is not a physiological entity, and when it occurs within the 30-day postoperative period, it is called an early postoperative small bowel obstruction. Kinking of small bowel segments at the ileostomy outlet secondary to a distended bladder is an unusual source of early postoperative small bowel obstruction. A 36-year-old female underwent a redo J-Pouch surgery and creation of loop ileostomy after pouch failure related to recurrent small bowel obstruction and perianal fistulae. Her foley catheter was removed on postoperative day 3 and she passed a trial of void test. On postoperative day 6, the abdomen became progressively more distended. Computerized tomography (CT) imaging with IV contrast showed small bowel distension extending to the midline anterior to the urinary bladder where it demonstrated a narrowed lumen. These findings were thought to be the cause of small bowel obstruction at this level before the ileostomy. Immediately after CT, a foley catheter was applied with which 2 L of urine was removed, and consequently, gas and stool were observed in the ostomy soon thereafter. Although rare, urinary retention may cause intestinal obstruction, especially in the presence of a loop ileostomy in close proximity.
Patient-Reported Outcomes in Young Adults with Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Bao Mei , Zhang Mengyu , Shi Hongxia , Liu Xiaoli , Duan Minghui , Zhuang Junling , Du Xin , Qin Ling , Hui Wuhan , Liang Rong , Wang Meifang , Chen Ye , Li Dongyun , Yang Wei , Tang Gusheng , Zhang Weihua , Kuang Xia , Su Wei , Han Yanqiu , Chen Limei , Xu Jihong , Liu Zhuogang , Huang Jian , Zhao Chunting , Tong Hongyan , Hu Jianda , Chen Chunyan , Chen Xiequn , Xiao Zhijian , Jiang Qian
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Genetic landscape, disease characteristics, and clinical outcomes of young adults with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) were reported. However, data on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in young adults with MPNs were rare. Methods: We conducted a multicenter, cross-sectional study to compare the PROs in respondents with thrombocythemia (ET), polycythemia vera (PV), and myelofibrosis (MF) by age at survey, including the young group (18–40 years), middle-aged group (41–60 years), and elderly group (>60 years). Results: Of the 1,664 respondents with MPNs, 349 (21.0%) were young including 244 (69.9%) with ET, 34 (9.7%) with PV, and 71 (20.3%) with MF. In multivariate analyses, the young groups with ET and MF were associated with the lowest MPN-10 scores among the 3 age groups; those with MF, highest proportion of reporting negative impact of disease and therapy on their daily life and work. The young groups with MPNs had the highest physical component summary scores but the lowest mental component summary scores in those with ET. The young groups with MPNs were most concerned about fertility; those with ET, treatment-related adverse events and long-term efficacy of treatment. Conclusions: We concluded that young adults with MPNs have different PROs compared with middle-aged and elderly patients.
Diagnostic Value of Serum Golgi Protein 73 for Liver Fibrosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Peng Se , Wu Qingrong , Huang Xiaoting , He Xuehua , Li Zhong , Xu Jianfeng , Wang Lei , Zhuang Jialing
Published: February 2023

Background: The assessment of liver fibrosis has been a critical component in the clinical management of liver diseases. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate serum Golgi protein 73 (GP73) in the diagnosis of liver fibrosis. Methods: A literature search was performed in eight databases until July 13, 2022. We strictly searched studies according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, extracted data, and then assessed quality. We pooled the sensitivity, specificity, and other diagnostic estimates of serum GP73 to assess liver fibrosis. Moreover, publication bias, threshold analysis, sensitivity analysis, meta-regression, subgroup analysis, and post-test probability were evaluated. Results: Our research integrated 16 articles including 3,676 patients. Potential publication bias and threshold effect were not found. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve of the summary receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.63, 0.79, and 0.818 for significant fibrosis; 0.77, 0.76, and 0.852 for advanced fibrosis; and 0.80, 0.76, and 0.894 for cirrhosis, respectively. The aetiology was one of the important sources of heterogeneity. Conclusion: Serum GP73 was a feasible diagnostic marker for liver fibrosis, which is of great significance for the clinical management of liver diseases.
Morphology of all the developmental stages of Neogreenia osmanthus (Yang & Hu) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha), and transfer of the genera Neogreenia MacGillivray and Jansenus Foldi to the family Qinococcidae
Authors: ZHENG XINYI , WU SAN’AN
Published: February 2023

All the developmental stages of Neogreenia osmanthus (Yang & Hu 1994) are described and illustrated (first- and second-instar nymphs, third-instar male and female nymphs, pupa and adult male), and the adult female is redescribed and re-illustrated. A key to all the developmental stages is provided and a brief biology of N. osmanthus is given. The relationship between the genus Neogreenia MacGillivray and Qinococcus Wu is discussed. Neogreenia (in the family Kuwaniidae) and the genus Jansenus Foldi (in the family Xylococcidae) are transferred to the family Qinococcidae, and the diagnosis of Qinococcidae is revised.
Taxonomic status of the enigmatic Natrix sexcarinata Wagler, 1824 (Serpentes: Colubridae: Colubrinae)
Authors: LOPES LEONARDO V. , PASSOS PAULO
Published: February 2023

Wagler described Natrix sexcarinata through a specimen collected on the banks of the Amazon River in Brazil, without citing a specific location. The species was later transferred to different Neotropical genera (Chironius, Herpetodryas, Phrynonax, and Pseustes) currently allocated in the Family Colubridae. The taxonomic instability of Natrix sexcarinata is probably due to its brief original description in combination with its supposedly inaccurate illustration. Despite the holotype being lost during World War II, some authors have pointed out that its description is somewhat similar to the widespread concept of Pseustes poecilonotus. More recently, a molecular study proposed the synonymy of the genera Pseustes with Spilotes, resurrecting the Phrynonax genus to allocate Ph. poecilonotus and Ph. polylepis. However, the taxonomic positioning of Natrix sexcarinata remains unsatisfactory with respect to the cis-Andean taxa placed in Phrynonax or even Spilotes throughout the Amazon. Considering the taxonomic and nomenclatural problems mentioned above, we investigated how many Phrynonax species occur along the Amazon Basin and what would be their applicable name. We examined the external morphology (meristic, morphometric, and color pattern data) of 118 Phrynonax specimens and prepared the hemipenes of seven specimens to understand geographic, sexual, and ontogenetic variability parameters. Our result suggests the synonymy of Ph. polylepis and N. sexcarinata under the combination Phrynonax sexcarinatus. Based on available evidence, we reinforce that Phrynonax sexcarinatus is the only congener that occurs along the Amazon Basin. We have also designated a Natrix sexcarinata neotype to stabilize its complex nomenclature.
Integrative description of two new species and two new subspecies of Lamprospilus Geyer (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)
Authors: PRIETO CARLOS , FAYNEL CHRISTOPHE , LORENC-BRUDECKA JADWIGA
Published: February 2023

Lamprospilus stegmaier Prieto & Faynel sp. nov. is described from five specimens collected in sympatry with L. nicetus C. Felder & R. Felder on the northern central range of the Colombian Andes. Lamprospilus bicolor Faynel & Prieto sp. nov. is described from specimens collected in Colombia, Peru and Bolivia. Lamprospilus bicolor mirador Faynel & Prieto ssp. nov. is described from specimens collected in Peru and Bolivia. Lamprospilus decorata valluna Prieto & Faynel ssp. nov. is described from specimens collected in Western Colombia. Male and female phenotypes are associated, and we present morphological and molecular diagnostic characters for the new species. We also evaluate the congruence between a priori morphology-based species identifications and Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) delimitations based on Barcode Index Numbers (BINs) in the genus. DNA barcodes are in perfect agreement with morphology in 64% of the species. Interspecific distances were found to range from 3.22% to 8.42% (average 5.48%), whilst their mean intraspecific variation ranges from 0.0% to 4.30% (average 1.78%). Based on DNA barcodes evidence of topotypic individuals, the study of original descriptions and illustrations of the holotypes, we consider here that Lamprospilus occidentalis Johnson & Salazar 2004 is a new junior subjective synonym of L. draudti Lathy, 1932.
The spider wasp genus Erythropompilus Shimizu & Pitts, 2021 (Hymenoptera, Pompilidae) in China, with description of two new species and an updated key to world species
Authors: WU HAIYING , LI QIANG , MA LI
Published: February 2023

The taxonomy of the genus Erythropompilus from China is studied, with description of two new species, namely Erythropompilus venterisetalis Wu & Ma, sp. nov., and Erythropompilus macroplacoideus Wu & Ma, sp. nov. Additionally, the genus is newly recorded from mainland China, and E. thailandensis is newly recorded from China. An updated key to the world species of Erythropompilus is provided.
Three new species of Omaliopsis Jeannel, 1940 and Omalium Gravenhorst, 1802 from Taiwan (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Omaliinae, Omaliini)
Authors: SHAVRIN ALEXEY V.
Published: February 2023

Three new species of Omaliini McLeay, 1825 from Taiwan are described and illustrated: Omaliopsis propinqua sp.n. (Nantou Hsien, Ilan Hsien), Omalium alienum sp.n. (Hualien Hsien, Nantou Hsien and Taichung Hsien) and O. latissimum sp.n. (Chiayi Hsien). Both genera are recorded from Taiwan for the first time.
Two new huntsman spiders from Xiaolong Mountains in Gansu Province, China (Araneae, Sparassidae)
Authors: ZHANG RUI , ZHANG BAOSHI , ZHANG FENG
Published: February 2023

Two new species of the sparassid genera Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 and Sinopoda Jäger, 1999 are described from Xiaolong Mountains, Gansu, China: Pseudopoda tricuspidata sp. n. (♂♀) and Sinopoda subcampanacea sp. n. (♂♀). Photos of habitus and genitalia are provided.
Discovery of Buea bangem Mvogo Ndongo, von Rintelen, Tomedi-Eyango & Cumberlidge, 2020 (Crustacea: Potamoidea: Potamonautidae: Liberonautinae) from Mt. Nlonako Wildlife Reserve, Cameroon
Authors: NDONGO PIERRE A. MVOGO , RINTELEN THOMAS VON , CLARK PAUL F. , SHAHDADI ADNAN , CUMBERLIDGE NEIL
Published: February 2023

N/A
Orphilus aegeanus (Coleoptera, Dermestidae, Orphilinae): a new species from Greece and Turkey
Authors: HOLLOWAY GRAHAM J. , HERRMANN ANDREAS
Published: February 2023

N/A
An annotated checklist of the species of Lopogastrida and Mysida (Crustacea: Peracarida) from Thailand and its adjacent waters
Authors: YOLANDA ROFIZA , AMBARWATI RENI , RAHAYU DWI ANGGOROWATI , BUDIJASTUTI WIDOWATI , FITRIHIDAJATI HERLINA , KUNTJORO SUNU , RACHMADIARTI FIDA , PURNOMO TARZAN
Published: February 2023

A compilation of mysid shrimps species found in brackish water to seawater has been carried out based on published records. The checklist includes the taxonomic position of each species, local distribution and depth range, the geographic zones and also the bibliographic references where they were recorded. Altogether 3 Lophogastrida and 52 Mysida species and 1 subspecies are listed. Most of them are distributed in the Andaman Sea (41 species), some in the Gulf of Thailand (13 species) and a few in the Songkhla Lagoon System (5 species). Mysids from the tribe Erythropini and Neomysini are the most predominant overall recorded species. Two of the recorded Mysida species are possibly endemic to the Songkhla Lagoon System (Deltamysis songkhlaensis and Nanomysis siamensis), whereas two species are endemic to the Phuket Island (Anisomysis phuketensis and Erythrops phuketensis). Previously, Rhopalophthalmus egregius was claimed to live in the Songkhla Lagoon System, however, further investigation show that this is not the case.
A new species of Phyllurus leaf-tailed gecko (Lacertilia: Carphodactylidae) from Scawfell Island, mid-east Queensland, Australia
Authors: HOSKIN CONRAD J.
Published: February 2023

A recent targeted reptile survey of Scawfell Island, in the South Cumberland Group, revealed a species of Phyllurus gecko that could not be morphologically assigned to any described species. Here I describe this as a new species, Phyllurus fimbriatus sp. nov., based on differences in a number of morphometric and scalation traits from congeners. Phyllurus fimbriatus sp. nov. is restricted to deeply-piled boulder habitat under rainforest canopy on Scawfell Island, approximately 50 km offshore from Mackay in mid-east Queensland. A survey in rocky, rainforest habitat on nearby Carlisle Island failed to find the species, and other nearby islands appear to lack sufficiently deep rock outcropping to support the species. Phyllurus fimbriatus sp. nov. is known from two small patches of habitat on Scawfell Island, but it is common within these, and is likely to be found in other suitable habitat patches on the island. Based on assessment of imagery, the total area of habitat occupied may be < 1 km2. The island is protected within South Cumberland National Park, but fire encroachment from adjacent dry sclerophyll habitats, climate change, competition from introduced Asian House Geckos (Hemidactylus frenatus Duméril & Bibron, 1836), and poaching are potential threats.
The incredible biodiversity of American Lamiinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae): description of four new species, synonymy, and taxonomical notes
Authors: SANTOS-SILVA ANTONIO , MONNÉ MIGUEL A.
Published: February 2023

Four new species are described: Urgleptes noguerai sp. nov. (Acanthocinini), from Mexico; Styloleptus charynae sp. nov. (Acanthocinini), from Bolivia; Nealcidion achiraense sp. nov. (Acanthocinini), from Bolivia; and Estola nearnsi sp. nov. (Desmiphorini), from Bolivia. Notes on the differences between Pseudolepturges Gilmour, 1957 and Urgleptes Dillon, 1956 are provided. Styloleptus nigricans (Fisher, 1935) is synonymized with Leptostylus lilliputanus Thomson, 1865, and the species is transferred to Styloleptus Dillon, 1956.
A review of Afrotropical Porricondylinae (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), with descriptions of five new species of Asynaptini from KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa
Authors: JASCHHOF MATHIAS , JASCHHOF CATRIN
Published: February 2023

Porricondylinae, a subfamily of gall midges (Cecidomyiidae) with mycophagous larvae, are poorly researched outside Europe. Twelve species were previously named from the entire Afrotropical Region, although 500+ species are likely to occur there. Here a fresh start is made to explore the taxonomic diversity of Afrotropical Porricondylinae using a more methodical approach than was done in the past. This first contribution focuses on several representatives of the tribe Asynaptini that occur in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province. Asycampta Mamaev & Zaitzev, stat. nov., previously a synonym of Pseudocamptomyia Parnell at the subgeneric level, is instated as a valid genus. The genera Asycampta (Afrotropical), Pseudocamptomyia (Nearctic) and Zadbimyia Jaschhof & Jaschhof (Neotropical) are redefined and hypothesized to form the Pseudocamptomyia group, a monophyletic subset of Asynaptini. Asycampta is shown to contain five species: two from Somalia, the type species A. palpata Mamaev & Zaitzev and A. africana (Mamaev & Zaitzev) comb. nov., and three from South Africa, A. karkloofensis Jaschhof & Jaschhof sp. nov., A. mpofana Jaschhof & Jaschhof sp. nov., and A. umngeni Jaschhof & Jaschhof sp. nov. The genus Camptomyia Kieffer is recorded for the first time from the Afrotropics, with two new species named C. mostovskii Jaschhof & Jaschhof sp. nov. and C. kwazulunatalensis Jaschhof & Jaschhof sp. nov. Our results show that all three large subgroups of Asynaptini, namely Asynapta Loew, Camptomyia, and the Pseudocamptomyia group of genera are Afrotropical. Clinophaena Kieffer, 1913 is recognized as a new junior synonym of Winnertzia Rondani, 1860 (a genus of the subfamily Winnertziinae), and Winnertzia mahensis (Kieffer), originally described in Holoneurus Kieffer and subsequently designated as the type species of Clinophaena, is a new combination.
Complementary data on the distribution of Nephus (Nephus) incisus (Har. Lindberg, 1950) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in the Palaearctic and Afrotropical regions
Authors: BIRANVAND AMIR , VĚTROVEC JAROSLAV , MERZOUG AICHA , BOUALEM MALIKA , FEKRAT LIDA , CERYNGIER PIOTR
Published: February 2023

Nephus incisus has previously been considered to be a species endemic to the Canary Islands. In this note we present data indicating that its range is wider. The newly recorded sites are in northern Algeria, south of mainland Spain and Cape Verde.
Correction of the homonymy of the nematode genus Singhiella Rao, 1958 (Oxyuridomorpha: Thelastomatoidea: Travasossinematidae) parasite from mole crickets (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae)
Authors: MORFFE JANS , GARCÍA NAYLA
Published: February 2023

N/A
Impact of health literacy and social support on medication adherence in patients with hypertension: a cross-sectional community-based study
Authors: Guo Aizhen , Jin Hua , Mao Jianbo , Zhu Weihong , Zhou Ye , Ge Xuhua , Yu Dehua
Published: February 2023

Background

Previous studies have examined the associations of health literacy and social support with medication adherence among patients with hypertension. However, limited evidence exists regarding the mechanisms underlying the relationship between these factors and medication adherence.

Purpose

To explore the prevalence of medication adherence and its determinants in patients with hypertension in Shanghai.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1697 participants with hypertension. We collected sociodemographic and clinical characteristics as well as data regarding health literacy, social support, and medication adherence using questionnaires. We examined interactions among the factors using a structural equation model.

Results

The participants included 654 (38.54%) patients with a low degree of medication adherence and 1043 (61.46%) patients with a medium/high degree of adherence. Social support directly influenced adherence (β = 0.165, P < 0.001) and indirectly influenced adherence through health literacy (β = 0.087, P < 0.001). Health literacy directly influenced adherence (β = 0.291, P < 0.001). Education indirectly affected adherence through both social support (β = 0.048, P < 0.001) and health literacy (β = 0.080, P < 0.001). Moreover, there was a sequential mediating effect of social support and health literacy on the association between education and adherence (β = 0.025, P < 0.001). After controlling for age and marital status, similar results were also obtained, indicating a good model fit.

Conclusions

The degree of medication adherence among hypertensive patients needs to improve. Health literacy and social support had both direct and indirect effects on adherence, and thus, these factors should be considered as tools to improve adherence.
A descriptive study of abdominal complications in patients with mild COVID-19 presenting to the emergency department: a single-center experience in Japan during the omicron variant phase
Authors: Maruyama Shuhei , Wada Daiki , Oishi Takahiro , Saito Fukuki , Yoshiya Kazuhisa , Nakamori Yasushi , Kuwagata Yasuyuki
Published: February 2023

Background

COVID-19 is widely known to induce a variety of extrapulmonary manifestations. Gastrointestinal symptoms have been identified as the most common extra-pulmonary manifestations of COVID-19, with an incidence reported to range from 3 to 61%. Although previous reports have addressed abdominal complications with COVID-19, these have not been adequately elucidated for the omicron variant. The aim of our study was to clarify the diagnosis of concomitant abdominal diseases in patients with mild COVID-19 who presented to hospital with abdominal symptoms during the sixth and seventh waves of the pandemic of the omicron variant in Japan.

Methods

This study was a retrospective, single-center, descriptive study. In total, 2291 consecutive patients with COVID-19 who visited the Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Kansai Medical University Medical Center, Osaka, Japan, between January 2022 and September 2022 were potentially eligible for the study. Patients delivered by ambulance or transferred from other hospitals were not included. We collected and described physical examination results, medical history, laboratory data, computed tomography findings and treatments. Data collected included diagnostic characteristics, abdominal symptoms, extra-abdominal symptoms and complicated diagnosis other than that of COVID-19 for abdominal symptoms.

Results

Abdominal symptoms were present in 183 patients with COVID-19. The number of patients with each abdominal symptom were as follows: nausea and vomiting (86/183, 47%), abdominal pain (63/183, 34%), diarrhea (61/183, 33%), gastrointestinal bleeding (20/183, 11%) and anorexia (6/183, 3.3%). Of these patients, 17 were diagnosed as having acute hemorrhagic colitis, five had drug-induced adverse events, two had retroperitoneal hemorrhage, two had appendicitis, two had choledocholithiasis, two had constipation, and two had anuresis, among others. The localization of acute hemorrhagic colitis was the left-sided colon in all cases.

Conclusions

Our study showed that acute hemorrhagic colitis was characteristic in mild cases of the omicron variant of COVID-19 with gastrointestinal bleeding. When examining patients with mild COVID-19 with gastrointestinal bleeding, the potential for acute hemorrhagic colitis should be kept in mind.
Image quality comparison of lower extremity CTA between CT routine reconstruction algorithms and deep learning reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Daming , Mu Chunlin , Zhang Xinyue , Yan Jing , Xu Min , Wang Yun , Wang Yining , Xue Huadan , Chen Yuexin , Jin Zhengyu
Published: February 2023

Background

To evaluate the image quality of lower extremity computed tomography angiography (CTA) with deep learning–based reconstruction (DLR) compared to model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR), hybrid-iterative reconstruction (HIR), and filtered back projection (FBP).

Methods

Fifty patients (38 males, average age 59.8 ± 19.2 years) who underwent lower extremity CTA between January and May 2021 were included. Images were reconstructed with DLR, MBIR, HIR, and FBP. The standard deviation (SD), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), noise power spectrum (NPS) curves, and the blur effect, were calculated. The subjective image quality was independently evaluated by two radiologists. The diagnostic accuracy of DLR, MBIR, HIR, and FBP reconstruction algorithms was calculated.

Results

The CNR and SNR were significantly higher in DLR images than in the other three reconstruction algorithms, and the SD was significantly lower in DLR images of the soft tissues. The noise magnitude was the lowest with DLR. The NPS average spatial frequency (fav) values were higher using DLR than HIR. For blur effect evaluation, DLR and FBP were similar for soft tissues and the popliteal artery, which was better than HIR and worse than MBIR. In the aorta and femoral arteries, the blur effect of DLR was worse than MBIR and FBP and better than HIR. The subjective image quality score of DLR was the highest. The sensitivity and specificity of the lower extremity CTA with DLR were the highest in the four reconstruction algorithms with 98.4% and 97.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

Compared to the other three reconstruction algorithms, DLR showed better objective and subjective image quality. The blur effect of the DLR was better than that of the HIR. The diagnostic accuracy of lower extremity CTA with DLR was the best among the four reconstruction algorithms.
Is obesity a risk factor for melanoma?
Authors: Arbel Yuval , Arbel Yifat , Kerner Amichai , Kerner Miryam
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Are twofold: 1) to estimate the relationship between obesity (BMI ≥30) and the prevalence of melanoma in different US states and 2) to examine the possibility of defining a new risk group. This might enhance the possibility of detection, which in turn, might increase the survival rates of patients.

Study design

A cohort Study, based on data at the US statewide level in 2011–2017, where the dependent variable (the annual new melanoma cases per 100,000 persons) is adjusted for age.

Method

Quadratic regression analysis. This model permits a non-monotonic variation of obesity with new melanoma cases adjusted for age, where the control variable is the level of UV radiation.

Results

Demonstrate a negative correlation between obesity and incidence of melanoma. This outcome is further corroborated for Caucasians.

Conclusions

We should continue to establish primary prevention of melanoma by raising photo protection awareness and secondary prevention by promoting skin screening (by physician or self) among the entire population group in all BMI ranges. Advanced secondary melanoma prevention including noninvasive diagnosis strategies including total body photography, confocal microscopy, AI strategies should focus the high-risk sub group of Caucasians with BMI < 30.
Serum Rcn3 level is a potential diagnostic biomarker for connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease and reflects the severity of pulmonary function
Authors: Ding Fangping , Yang Liu , Wang Yingfei , Wang Jing , Ma Yingmin , Jin Jiawei
Published: February 2023

Background

Although reticulocalbin 3 (Rcn3) has a critical role in alveolar epithelial function as well as in pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis, no study has yet examined its diagnostic and prognostic values for interstitial lung disease (ILD). This study aimed to evaluate Rcn3 as a potential marker in differential diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) and in reflecting the severity of disease.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational pilot study included 71 ILD patients and 39 healthy controls. These patients were stratified into IPF group (39) and CTD-ILD group (32). The severity of ILD was evaluated through pulmonary function test.

Results

Serum Rcn3 level was statistically higher in CTD-ILD patients than that in IPF patients (p = 0.017) and healthy controls (p = 0.010). Serum Rcn3 further showed statistically negative correlation with pulmonary function indexes (TLC% pred and DLCO% pred) and positive correlation with inflammatory indexes (CRP and ESR) (r =  − 0.367, p = 0.039; r =  − 0.370, p = 0.037; r = 0.355, p = 0.046; r = 0.392, p = 0.026, respectively) in CTD-ILD patients rather than IPF patients. ROC analysis demonstrated that serum Rcn3 had superior diagnostic value for CTD-ILD and a cutoff value of 2.73 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 69%, a specificity of 69% and an accuracy of 45% for diagnose of CTD-ILD.

Conclusions

Serum Rcn3 levels might be a clinically useful biomarker in screening and evaluating CTD-ILD.
Relative decline in serum albumin help to predict anastomotic leakage for female patients following sphincter-preserving rectal surgery
Authors: Hu Kang , Tan Ke , Shang Quanzhen , Li Chao , Zhang Zhe , Huang Bin , Zhao Song , Li Fan , Zhang Anping , Li Chunxue , Liu Baohua , Tong Weidong
Published: February 2023

Background

Patients with normal preoperative serum albumin still suffer from a significant reduction in serum albumin after major abdominal surgery. The current study aims to explore the predictive value of ∆ALB for AL in patients with normal serum albumin and examine whether there is a gender difference in the prediction of AL.

Methods

Medical reports of consecutive patients undergoing elective sphincter-preserving rectal surgery between July 2010 and June 2016 were reviewed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was adopted to examine the predictive ability of ∆ALB and determine the cut-off value according to the Youden index. The logistic regression model was performed identify independent risk factors for AL.

Results

Out of the 499 eligible patients, 40 experienced AL. Results of the ROC analyses showed that ΔALB displayed a significant predictive value for females, and the AUC value was 0.675 (P = 0.024), with a sensitivity of 93%. In male patients, the AUC was 0.575 (P = 0.22), but did not reach a significant level. In the multivariate analysis, ∆ALB ≥ 27.2% and low tumor location prove to be independent risk factors for AL in female patients.

Conclusions

The current study suggested that there may be a gender difference in the prediction of AL and ∆ ALB can serve as a potential predictive biomarker for AL in females. A cut-off value of the relative decline in serum albumin can help predict AL in female patients as early as postoperative day 2. Although our study needs further external validation, our findings may provide an earlier, easier and cheaper biomarker for the detection of AL.
Effect of filament types and loops number on the force degradation of elastomeric chains used for orthodontic treatment: an in-vitro study
Authors: Zheng Bowen , Al-Somairi Majedh Abdo Ali , Li Zhiyuan , Zhao Yang , Liu Yi
Published: February 2023

Background

In orthodontic treatment, closing spaces, specifically the extraction and scattered spaces of the anterior teeth, requires some auxiliary bias, such as an elastomeric chain. Many factors affect the mechanical properties of elastic chains. In this study, we investigated the relationship of the filament type, the number of loops, and the force degradation of elastomeric chains under thermal cycling conditions.

Methods

The orthogonal design included three filament types (i.e., close, medium, and long). Four, five, and six loops of each elastomeric chain were stretched to have an initial force of 250 g in an artificial saliva environment at 37 °C and thermocycling between 5 and 55 °C three times a day. The remaining force of the elastomeric chains was recorded at different time points (4 h, 24 h, 7 days, 14 days, 21 days, and 28 days), and the percentage of the remaining force was calculated.

Results

The force decreased significantly in the initial 4 h and degraded mostly within the first 24 h. In addition, the percentage of force degradation increased slightly between 1 and 28 days.

Conclusions

Under the same initial force, the longer the connecting body is, the fewer the number of loops and the greater the force degradation of the elastomeric chain are.
Improving oncology first-in-human and Window of opportunity informed consent forms through participant feedback
Authors: Avinger Anna M. , Sibold Hannah Claire , Campbell Gavin , Abernethy Eli , Bourgeois John , McClary Tekiah , Blee Shannon , Dixon Margie , Harvey R. Donald , Pentz Rebecca D.
Published: February 2023

Background

Although patient advocates have developed templates for standard consent forms, evaluating patient preferences for first in human (FIH) and window of opportunity (Window) trial consent forms is critical due to their unique risks. FIH trials are the initial use of a novel compound in study participants. In contrast, Window trials give an investigational agent over a fixed duration to treatment naïve patients in the time between diagnosis and standard of care (SOC) surgery. Our goal was to determine the patient-preferred presentation of important information in consent forms for these trials.

Methods

The study consisted of two phases: (1) analyses of oncology FIH and Window consents; (2) interviews of trial participants. FIH consent forms were analyzed for the location(s) of information stating that the study drug has not been tested in humans (FIH information); Window consents were analyzed for the location(s) of information stating the trial may delay SOC surgery (delay information). Participants were asked about their preferred placement of the information in their own trial’s consent form. The location of information in the consent forms was compared to the participants’ suggestions for placement.

Results

34 [17 FIH; 17 Window] of 42(81%) cancer patients approached participated. 25 consents [20 FIH; 5 Window] were analyzed. 19/20 FIH consent forms included FIH information, and 4/5 Window consent forms included delay information. 19/20(95%) FIH consent forms contained FIH information in the risks section 12/17(71%) patients preferred the same. Fourteen (82%) patients wanted FIH information in the purpose, but only 5(25%) consents mentioned it there. 9/17(53%) Window patients preferred delay information to be located early in the consent, before the “Risks” section.  3/5(60%) consents did this.

Conclusions

Designing consents that reflect patient preferences more accurately is essential for ethical informed consent; however, a one-size fits all approach will not accurately capture patient preferences. We found that preferences differed for FIH and Window trial consents, though for both, patients preferred key risk information early in the consent. Next steps include determining if FIH and Window consent templates improve understanding.
ER ribosomal-binding protein 1 regulates blood pressure and potassium homeostasis by modulating intracellular renin trafficking
Authors: Chiu Chu-Hsuan , Hsuan Chin-Feng , Lin Shih-Hua , Hung Yi-Jen , Hwu Chii-Min , Hee Siow-Wey , Lin Shu-Wha , Fong Sitt-Wai , Hsieh Patrick Ching-Ho , Yang Wei-Shun , Lin Wei-Chou , Lee Hsiao-Lin , Hsieh Meng-Lun , Li Wen-Yi , Lin Jou-Wei , Hsu Chih-Neng , Wu Vin-Cent , Chuang Gwo-Tsann , Chang Yi-Cheng , Chuang Lee-Ming
Published: February 2023

Background

Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have linked RRBP1 (ribosomal-binding protein 1) genetic variants to atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases and serum lipoprotein levels. However, how RRBP1 regulates blood pressure is unknown.

Methods

To identify genetic variants associated with blood pressure, we performed a genome-wide linkage analysis with regional fine mapping in the Stanford Asia–Pacific Program for Hypertension and Insulin Resistance (SAPPHIRe) cohort. We further investigated the role of the RRBP1 gene using a transgenic mouse model and a human cell model.

Results

In the SAPPHIRe cohort, we discovered that genetic variants of the RRBP1 gene were associated with blood pressure variation, which was confirmed by other GWASs for blood pressure. Rrbp1- knockout (KO) mice had lower blood pressure and were more likely to die suddenly from severe hyperkalemia caused by phenotypically hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism than wild-type controls. The survival of Rrbp1-KO mice significantly decreased under high potassium intake due to lethal hyperkalemia-induced arrhythmia and persistent hypoaldosteronism, which could be rescued by fludrocortisone. An immunohistochemical study revealed renin accumulation in the juxtaglomerular cells of Rrbp1-KO mice. In the RRBP1-knockdown Calu-6 cells, a human renin-producing cell line, transmission electron and confocal microscopy revealed that renin was primarily retained in the endoplasmic reticulum and was unable to efficiently target the Golgi apparatus for secretion.

Conclusions

RRBP1 deficiency in mice caused hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism, resulting in lower blood pressure, severe hyperkalemia, and sudden cardiac death. In juxtaglomerular cells, deficiency of RRBP1 reduced renin intracellular trafficking from ER to Golgi apparatus. RRBP1 is a brand-new regulator of blood pressure and potassium homeostasis discovered in this study.

Graphical Abstract
Assessment of artemisinin tolerance in Plasmodium falciparum clinical isolates in children with uncomplicated malaria in Ghana
Authors: Ahorhorlu Samuel Yao , Quashie Neils Ben , Jensen Rasmus Weisel , Kudzi William , Nartey Edmund Tetteh , Duah-Quashie Nancy Odurowah , Zoiku Felix , Dzudzor Bartholomew , Wang Christian William , Hansson Helle , Alifrangis Michael , Adjei George Obeng
Published: February 2023

Background

Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) is the first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria in Ghana. Artemisinin (ART) tolerance in Plasmodium falciparum has arisen in Southeast Asia and recently, in parts of East Africa. This is ascribed to the survival of ring-stage parasites post treatment. The present study sought to assess and characterize correlates of potential ART tolerance based on post-treatment parasite clearance, ex vivo and in vitro drug sensitivity, and molecular markers of drug resistance in P. falciparum isolates from children with uncomplicated malaria in Ghana.

Methods

Six months to fourteen years old children presenting with acute uncomplicated malaria (n = 115) were enrolled in two hospitals and a Health Centre in Ghana’s Greater Accra region and treated with artemether-lumefantrine (AL) according to body weight. Pre- and post-treatment parasitaemia (day 0 and day 3) was confirmed by microscopy. The ex vivo ring-stage survival assay (RSA) was used to detect percent ring survival while the 72 h SYBR Green I assay was used to measure the 50% inhibition concentration (IC50s) of ART and its derivatives and partner drugs. Genetic markers of drug tolerance /resistance were evaluated using selective whole genome sequencing.

Results

Of the total of 115 participants, 85 were successfully followed up on day 3 post-treatment and 2/85 (2.4%) had parasitaemia. The IC50 values of ART, artesunate (AS), artemether (AM), dihydroartemisinin (DHA), amodiaquine (AQ), and lumefantrine (LUM) were not indicative of drug tolerance. However, 7/90 (7.8%) pre-treatment isolates had > 10% ring survival rates against DHA. Of the four isolates (2 RSA positive and 2 RSA negative) with high genomic coverage, P. falciparum (Pf) kelch 13 K188* and Pfcoronin V424I mutations were only present in the two RSA positive isolates with > 10% ring survival rates.

Conclusions

The observed low proportion of participants with day-3 post-treatment parasitaemia is consistent with rapid ART clearance. However, the increased rates of survival observed in the ex vivo RSA against DHA, maybe a pointer of an early start of ART tolerance. Furthermore, the role of two novel mutations in PfK13 and Pfcoronin genes, harboured by the two RSA positive isolates that had high ring survival in the present study, remains to be elucidated.
‘I’m not going to leave someone to die’: carriage of naloxone by police in Scotland within a public health framework: a qualitative study of acceptability and experiences
Authors: Speakman Elizabeth M. , Hillen Peter , Heyman Inga , Murray Jennifer , Dougall Nadine , Aston Elizabeth V. , McAuley Andrew
Published: February 2023

Background

Scotland has one of the highest rates of drug-related deaths (DRDs) per capita in Europe, the majority of which involve opioids. Naloxone is a medication used to reverse opioid-related overdoses. In efforts to tackle escalating DRDs in many countries, naloxone is increasingly being provided to people who are likely first responders in overdose situations. This includes non-healthcare professionals, such as police officers. A pilot exercise to test the carriage and administration of naloxone by police officers was conducted in selected areas of Scotland between March and October 2021. The aim of the study was to explore the acceptability and experiences of naloxone carriage and administration by police in Scotland.

Methods

The study comprised of two stages. Stage 1 involved in-depth one-to-one qualitative interviews with 19 community stakeholders (people with lived experience, family members, support workers). Stage 2 involved a mixture of in-depth one-to-one interviews and focus groups with 41 police officers. Data were analysed thematically, and the findings from the two stages were triangulated to develop overarching themes and subthemes.

Results

By the end of the pilot, 808 police officers had been trained in the use of intranasal naloxone. Voluntary uptake of naloxone kits among police officers who completed training was 81%. There were 51 naloxone administration incidents recorded by police officers at suspected opioid-related overdose incidents during the pilot. Most officers shared positive experiences of naloxone administration. Naloxone as a first aid tool suited their role as first responders and their duty and desire to preserve life. Perceived barriers included concerns about police undertaking health-related work, potential legal liabilities and stigmatising attitudes. The majority of participants (and all community stakeholders) were supportive of the pilot and for it to be expanded across Scotland.

Conclusions

Police carriage of naloxone is an acceptable and potentially valuable harm reduction tool to help tackle the DRDs crisis in Scotland. However, it requires appropriate integration with existing health and social care systems. The intervention lies at the intersection between public health and policing and implies a more explicit public health approach to policing.
A head-to-head comparison of the EQ-5D-5L and 15D descriptive systems and index values in a general population sample
Authors: Nikl Anna , Janssen Mathieu F. , Brodszky Valentin , Rencz Fanni
Published: February 2023

Background

The EQ-5D-5L and 15D are generic preference-accompanied health status measures with similar dimensions. In this study, we aim to compare the measurement properties of the EQ-5D-5L and 15D descriptive systems and index values in a general population sample.

Methods

In August 2021, an online cross-sectional survey was conducted in a representative adult general population sample (n = 1887). The EQ-5D-5L and 15D descriptive systems and index values were compared in terms of ceiling and floor, informativity (Shannon’s Evenness index), agreement, convergent and known-groups validity for 41 chronic physical and mental health conditions. Danish value sets were used to compute index values for both instruments. As a sensitivity analysis, index values were also estimated using the Hungarian EQ-5D-5L and Norwegian 15D value sets.

Results

Overall, 270 (8.6%) and 1030 (3.4*10−6%) unique profiles occurred on the EQ-5D-5L and 15D. The EQ-5D-5L dimensions (0.51–0.70) demonstrated better informativity than those of 15D (0.44–0.69). EQ-5D-5L and 15D dimensions capturing similar areas of health showed moderate or strong correlations (0.558–0.690). The vision, hearing, eating, speech, excretion and mental function 15D dimensions demonstrated very weak or weak correlations with all EQ-5D-5L dimensions, which may indicate potential room for EQ-5D-5L bolt-ons. The 15D index values showed lower ceiling than the EQ-5D-5L (21% vs. 36%). The mean index values were 0.86 for the Danish EQ-5D-5L, 0.87 for the Hungarian EQ-5D-5L, 0.91 for the Danish 15D and 0.81 for the Norwegian 15D. Strong correlations were found between the index values (Danish EQ-5D-5L vs. Danish 15D 0.671, Hungarian EQ-5D-5L vs. Norwegian 15D 0.638). Both instruments were able to discriminate between all chronic condition groups with moderate or large effect sizes (Danish EQ-5D-5L 0.688–3.810, Hungarian EQ-5D-5L 1.233–4.360, Danish 15D 0.623–3.018 and Norwegian 15D 1.064–3.816). Compared to the 15D, effect sizes were larger for the EQ-5D-5L in 88–93% of chronic condition groups.

Conclusions

This is the first study to compare the measurement properties of the EQ-5D-5L and 15D in a general population sample. Despite having 10 fewer dimensions, the EQ-5D-5L performed better than the 15D in many aspects. Our findings help to understand the differences between generic preference-accompanied measures and support resource allocation decisions.