bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence on bringing specialised care to the primary level—effects on the Quadruple Aim and cost-effectiveness: a systematic review
Authors: Lovén Maria , Pitkänen Laura J. , Paananen Markus , Torkki Paulus
Published: January 2024

Background

To achieve the Quadruple Aim of improving population health, enhancing the patient experience of care, reducing costs and improving professional satisfaction requires reorganisation of health care. One way to accomplish this aim is by integrating healthcare services on different levels. This systematic review aims to determine whether it is cost-effective to bring a hospital specialist into primary care from the perspectives of commissioners, patients and professionals.

Methods

The review follows the PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed, Scopus and EBSCO (CINAHL and Academic Search Ultimate) for the period of 1992–2022. In total, 4254 articles were found, and 21 original articles that reported on both quality and costs, were included. The JBI and ROBINS-I tools were used for quality appraisal. In data synthesis, vote counting and effect direction plots were used together with a sign test. The strength of evidence was evaluated with the GRADE.

Results

Cost-effectiveness was only measured in two studies, and it remains unclear. Costs and cost drivers for commissioners were lower in the intervention in 52% of the studies; this proportion rose to 67% of the studies when cost for patients was also considered, while health outcomes, patient experience and professional satisfaction mostly improved but at least remained the same. Costs for the patient, where measured, were mainly lower in the intervention group. Professional satisfaction was reported in 48% of the studies; in 80% it was higher in the intervention group. In 24% of the studies, higher monetary costs were reported for commissioners, whereas the clinical outcomes, patient experience and costs for the patient mainly improved.

Conclusions

The cost-effectiveness of the hospital specialist in primary care model remains inconclusive. Only a few studies have comprehensively calculated costs, evaluating cost drivers. However, it seems that when the service is well organised and the population is large enough, the concept can be profitable for the commissioner also. From the patient’s perspective, the model is superior and could even promote equity through improved access. Professional satisfaction is mostly higher compared to the traditional model. The certainty of evidence is very low for cost and low for quality.

Trial registration

PROSPERO CRD42022325232, 12.4.2022.
Asymmetric and parallel subgenome selection co-shape common carp domestication
Authors: Wang Min , Li Xinxin , Wang Chongnv , Zou Ming , Yang Jing , Li Xiang-dong , Guo Baocheng
Published: January 2024

Background

The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) might best represent the domesticated allopolyploid animals. Although subgenome divergence which is well-known to be a key to allopolyploid domestication has been comprehensively characterized in common carps, the link between genetic architecture underlying agronomic traits and subgenome divergence is unknown in the selective breeding of common carps globally.

Results

We utilized a comprehensive SNP dataset in 13 representative common carp strains worldwide to detect genome-wide genetic variations associated with scale reduction, vibrant skin color, and high growth rate in common carp domestication. We identified numerous novel candidate genes underlie the three agronomically most desirable traits in domesticated common carps, providing potential molecular targets for future genetic improvement in the selective breeding of common carps. We found that independently selective breeding of the same agronomic trait (e.g., fast growing) in common carp domestication could result from completely different genetic variations, indicating the potential advantage of allopolyploid in domestication. We observed that candidate genes associated with scale reduction, vibrant skin color, and/or high growth rate are repeatedly enriched in the immune system, suggesting that domestication of common carps was often accompanied by the disease resistance improvement.

Conclusions

In common carp domestication, asymmetric subgenome selection is prevalent, while parallel subgenome selection occurs in selective breeding of common carps. This observation is not due to asymmetric gene retention/loss between subgenomes but might be better explained by reduced pleiotropy through transposable element-mediated expression divergence between ohnologs. Our results demonstrate that domestication benefits from polyploidy not only in plants but also in animals.
Carrier frequency estimation of pathogenic variants of autosomal recessive and X-linked recessive mendelian disorders using exome sequencing data in 1,642 Thais
Authors: Chetruengchai Wanna , Phowthongkum Prasit , Shotelersuk Vorasuk
Published: January 2024

Background

People with autosomal recessive disorders often were born without awareness of the carrier status of their parents. The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) recommends screening 113 genes known to cause autosomal recessive and X-linked conditions in couples seeking to learn about their risk of having children with these disorders to have an appropriate reproductive plan.

Methods

We analyzed the exome sequencing data of 1,642 unrelated Thai individuals to identify the pathogenic variant (PV) frequencies in genes recommended by ACMG.

Results

In the 113 ACMG-recommended genes, 165 PV and likely PVs in 60 genes of 559 exomes (34%, 559/1642) were identified. The carrier rate was increased to 39% when glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) was added. The carrier rate was still as high as 14.7% when thalassemia and hemoglobinopathies were excluded. In addition to thalassemia, hemoglobinopathies, and G6PD deficiency, carrier frequencies of > 1% were found for Gaucher disease, primary hyperoxaluria, Pendred syndrome, and Wilson disease. Nearly 2% of the couples were at risk of having offsprings with the tested autosomal recessive conditions.

Conclusions

Based on the study samples, the expanded carrier screening, which specifically targeted common autosomal recessive conditions in Thai individuals, will benefit clinical outcomes, regarding preconception/prenatal genetic carrier screening.
TEP SNORD12B, SNORA63, and SNORD14E as novel biomarkers for hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-related HCC)
Authors: Zhao Xuan , Chen Guanxuan , Wu Yawen , Li Xiao , Zhang Zhe , Xie Li , Song Xianrang , Song Xingguo
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The alterations of RNA profile in tumor-educated platelets (TEPs) have been described as a novel biosource for cancer diagnostics. This study aimed to explore the potential snoRNAs in TEP as biomarkers for diagnostics of hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-related HCC).

Methods

Platelets were isolated using low-speed centrifugation and subjected to a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for snoRNAs detection.

Results

Down-regulated SNORD12B and SNORD14E as well as up-regulated SNORA63 were identified in TEP from HBV-related HCC, which could act as diagnostic biomarkers for HBV-related HCC as well as the early disease. Besides, TEP SNORD12B, SNORD14E, and SNORA63 facilitate the diagnostic performance of AFP and achieve favorable diagnostics efficiency for HBV-related HCC when combined with platelet parameters.

Conclusions

Aberrant expression of SNORD12B, SNORA63, and SNORD14E in TEPs could serve as the novel and non-invasive biomarkers for HBV-related HCC diagnosis.
Urban–rural differences in seasonal malaria chemoprevention coverage and characteristics of target populations in nine states of Nigeria: a comparative cross-sectional study
Authors: Ibinaiye Taiwo , Rotimi Kunle , Balogun Ayodeji , Aidenagbon Adaeze , Oguoma Chibuzo , Baker Kevin , Ogunmola Olabisi , Oresanya Olusola , Rassi Christian , Nnaji Chuks
Published: January 2024

Background

Differences between urban and rural contexts in terms of sociodemographic characteristics, geographical features and risk perceptions may lead to disparities in coverage and related outcomes of community-based preventive interventions, such as seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC). This study investigated urban–rural differences in SMC coverage and other programme outcomes, as well as child and caregiver characteristics of target populations in nine implementing states in Nigeria during the 2022 SMC round.

Methods

This is a comparative cross-sectional study based on comprehensive end-of-round household surveys conducted in nine states where SMC was delivered in Nigeria in 2022. Data of 11,880 caregiver-child pairs were included in the analysis. Rural-urban differences in SMC outcomes and child and caregiver characteristics were assessed, first by using Pearsons’ chi-square test for independence for categorical variables. Univariate multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression models, with random intercepts for cluster units, were used to quantify the strength of association between location and each SMC coverage and related outcomes.

Results

Significant urban-rural differences were observed in caregivers’ sociodemographic characteristics, such as age, gender, level of education, occupation status and health-seeking behaviour for febrile childhood illnesses. Disparities were also seen in terms of SMC coverage and related outcomes, with lower odds of the receipt of Day 1 dose direct observation of the administration of Day 1 dose by community distributors, receipt of the full three-day course of SMC medicines and receipt of SMC in all cycles of the annual round among children residing in urban areas, compared with those residing in rural areas. Similarly, urban-dwelling caregivers had lower odds of being knowledgeable of SMC and believing in the protective effect of SMC than rural-dwelling caregivers.

Conclusion

Findings highlight observable urban-rural disparities in SMC programme delivery and related outcomes, as well as target population characteristics, underscoring the need for context-specific strategies to ensure optimal delivery of SMC and improve programme implementation outcomes in urban settings.
Elevated first-trimester neutrophil elastase and proteinase 3 increase the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus and adverse fetal outcomes
Authors: Wang Lihong , Zhou Zhoujunhao , Xu Xinming , Li Yue , Zhang Rui , Yu Zhiyan , Huang Xinmei , Zang Shufei , Sun Tiange
Published: January 2024

Background

Chronic inflammation plays a vital role in the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Studies in mouse models show that neutrophil serine proteases (NSPs), neutrophil elastase (NE) and proteinase-3 (PR3) are important drivers of chronic inflammation with consequent metabolic disturbances. This study evaluated the association of NE and PR3 with GDM development and adverse fetal outcomes.

Method(s)

This was a prospective cohort study. Serum PR3 and NE concentration was measured in all enrolled pregnant women in the first and the second trimester to determine the connection between NSPs and GDM and adverse fetal outcomes. Logistic regression, spline regression and linear regression analyses were applied to investigate the association of NE or PR3 with GDM development and adverse fetal outcomes. The concentration of NE and PR3 in placental biopsies was evaluated by semi-quantitative analysis of immunohistochemistry staining.

Result(s)

NE or PR3 concentration in the first trimester, rather than the second, increased more significantly in women with GDM than in those without, regardless of pre-pregnancy body mass index and age. There was a stepwise increase in GDM occurrence as well as comprehensive adverse fetal outcomes across tertiles of NE and PR3. NE and PR3 were positively associated with neutrophil count, pre-pregnancy BMI, plasma glucose level and newborn weight. Logistic regression revealed NE or PR3 to be independent risk factors for the development of GDM and comprehensive adverse fetal outcomes. Spline regression showed a significant increased risk of GDM occurrence and comprehensive adverse fetal outcomes when serum NE concentration exceeded 417.60 ng/mL and a similar result for PR3 and GDM occurrence when the latter exceeded 88.52 ng/mL. Immunohistochemistry data confirmed that enriched NE and PR3 content in placental tissue may have contributed to the development of GDM.

Conclusion(s)

This work demonstrates that excessive first-trimester NE and PR3 increase the risk of GDM development and comprehensive adverse fetal outcomes.
The impact of COVID-19 on the mental and sexual health of patients with infertility: a prospective before-and-after study
Authors: Qi Jing , Sun Meng , Yue Xingchen , Hong Xintong , Dong Meng , Tan Jichun
Published: January 2024

Background

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has seriously impacted the mental and sexual health of the general population. Patients dealing with infertility constitute a unique subset within society, susceptible to heightened sensitivity amid pressures and crises. However, to the best of our knowledge, the impact of the different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and sexual health of patients with infertility has not been investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the mental and sexual health of patients with infertility during different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic (during the lockdown, when controls were fully liberalized, and during the post-pandemic era).

Methods

This prospective before-and-after study was conducted between April and May 2022 (during the lockdown), December and January 2023 (when controls were fully liberalized), and May and August 2023 (during the post-pandemic era). This study explored the sexual and mental health of women with infertility during the three stages of the COVID-19 pandemic using standardized mental health and sexual function questionnaires. The Chi-square test was used to compare categorical data, and the ANOVA test was used to compare numerical data.

Results

Patients had the highest 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) scores and the highest rates of anxiety and depression during the immediate full-release phase. During the complete liberalization phase, patients had the lowest Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores and the highest incidence of sexual dysfunction.

Conclusion

This study is the first one to report the repercussions of COVID-19 on the mental and sexual well-being of individuals experiencing infertility across various phases of the pandemic. Upon the complete lifting of control measures, close to 99% of participants exhibited varying degrees of anxiety and depression. Our research underscores that individuals with infertility faced elevated levels of anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunction during the phase of full liberalization of COVID-19 control measures, in stark contrast to the periods of lockdown and the post-pandemic era.
Ferroptosis: a promising candidate for exosome-mediated regulation in different diseases
Authors: Liu Limin , Ye Yulin , Lin Rui , Liu Tianyu , Wang Sinan , Feng Zelin , Wang Xiaoli , Cao Hailong , Chen Xin , Miao Junming , Liu Yifei , Jiang Kui , Han Zhibo , Li Zongjin , Cao Xiaocang
Published: January 2024

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered form of cell death that is featured in a wide range of diseases. Exosome therapy is a promising therapeutic option that has attracted much attention due to its low immunogenicity, low toxicity, and ability to penetrate biological barriers. In addition, emerging evidence indicates that exosomes possess the ability to modulate the progression of diverse diseases by regulating ferroptosis in damaged cells. Hence, the mechanism by which cell-derived and noncellular-derived exosomes target ferroptosis in different diseases through the system Xc−/GSH/GPX4 axis, NAD(P)H/FSP1/CoQ10 axis, iron metabolism pathway and lipid metabolism pathway associated with ferroptosis, as well as its applications in liver disease, neurological diseases, lung injury, heart injury, cancer and other diseases, are summarized here. Additionally, the role of exosome-regulated ferroptosis as an emerging repair mechanism for damaged tissues and cells is also discussed, and this is expected to be a promising treatment direction for various diseases in the future.
Small-molecule agonist AdipoRon alleviates diabetic retinopathy through the AdipoR1/AMPK/EGR4 pathway
Authors: Wang Yihan , Liu Yujuan , Fang Junwei , Xing Xindan , Wang Hanying , Shi Xin , Liu Xinyi , Niu Tian , Liu Kun
Published: January 2024

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a progressive disease that involves multiple organs due to increased blood glucose, and diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the main complication of DM in the eyes and causes irreversible vision loss. In the pathogenesis of diabetic vascular disease, oxidative stress caused by hyperglycemia plays an important role in Müller cell impairment. In recent years, AdipoRon, an adiponectin analog that demonstrated important physiological functions in obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases, demonstrated cellular protection from apoptosis and reduced inflammatory damage through a receptor-dependent mechanism. Here, we investigated how AdipoRon reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis in Müller glia in a high glucose environment.

Results

By binding to adiponectin receptor 1 on Müller glia, AdipoRon activated 5ʹ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/acetyl-CoA carboxylase phosphorylation downstream, thereby alleviating oxidative stress and eventual apoptosis of cells and tissues. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that AdipoRon promoted the synthesis and expression of early growth response factor 4 (EGR4) and inhibited the cellular protective effects of AdipoRon in a high-glucose environment by reducing the expression of EGR4. This indicated that AdipoRon played a protective role through the EGR4 and classical AMPK pathways.

Conclusions

This provides a new target for the early treatment of DR.

Graphical Abstract
Recent advances of engineered oncolytic viruses-based combination therapy for liver cancer
Authors: Zhang Junhe , Xiao Yunxi , Zhang Jie , Yang Yun , Zhang Liao , Liang Fan
Published: January 2024

Liver cancer is a major malignant tumor, which seriously threatens human health and increases the economic burden on patients. At present, gene therapy has been comprehensively studied as an excellent therapeutic measure in liver cancer treatment. Oncolytic virus (OV) is a kind of virus that can specifically infect and kill tumor cells. After being modified by genetic engineering, the specificity of OV infection to tumor cells is increased, and its influence on normal cells is reduced. To date, OV has shown its effectiveness and safety in experimental and clinical studies on a variety of tumors. Thus, this review primarily introduces the current status of different genetically engineered OVs used in gene therapy for liver cancer, focuses on the application of OVs and different target genes for current liver cancer therapy, and identifies the problems encountered in OVs-based combination therapy and the corresponding solutions, which will provide new insights into the treatment of liver cancer.
Partial loss of Sorting Nexin 27 resembles age- and Down syndrome-associated T cell dysfunctions
Authors: Rodriguez-Rodriguez Cristina , González-Mancha Natalia , Ochoa-Echeverría Ane , Liébana Rosa , Merida Isabel
Published: January 2024

Background

Sorting Nexin 27 (SNX27)-retromer complex facilitates cargo recycling from endosomes to the plasma membrane. SNX27 downregulation in neurons, as the result of Trisomy 21 (T21), has been linked with cognitive deficits due to impairment of AMPA and NMDA receptor recycling. Studies in human T cell lines likewise demonstrated that SNX27 regulates the correct delivery of cargoes to the immune synapse limiting the activation of pro-inflammatory pathways. Nevertheless, the physiological consequences of partial SNX27 loss in T cell homeostasis are still unclear.

Results

In this study, we have explored the consequences of T cell specific partial SNX27 downregulation in mice. T cells with partial SNX27 deficiency show a marked deficit in the CD4+ T cell pool, a hallmark of aging in mice and humans, and a well-characterized comorbidity of individuals with Down syndrome (DS). When analyzed ex vivo, CD4+ T cells with partial SNX27 deletion demonstrate enhanced proliferation but diminished IL-2 production. In contrast, the CD8+ population show enhanced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lytic enzymes.

Conclusions

This mouse model supports the relevance of SNX27 in the organization of the immune synapse, previously described in cell lines, as well as in the control of T cell homeostasis. Individuals with DS experiment an acceleration of the aging process, which particularly affects the immune and central nervous systems. Thus, we hypothesize that reduced SNX27 expression in DS could contribute to the dysregulation of these systems and further research in SNX27 will shed light on the molecular factors underlying the phenotypes observed in people with DS and its contribution to aging.
Statistical evaluation of tongue capability with visual feedback
Authors: Bratland Veronica , Coda Kyle , Merei Mohamad , Ahmadian Leila , Babbitt Edna M. , Patton James. L. , Esmailbeigi Hananeh
Published: January 2024

Background

Analysis of tongue movement would benefit from a reference showcasing healthy tongue capability. We aimed to develop a reference of tongue capability and evaluated the role of visual feedback on the expression of movement.

Methods

Using a wireless tracking intraoral wearable device, we composed probability distributions of the tongue tip as subjects were asked to explore the entire sensing surface area. Half of the 32 subjects received live visual feedback of the location of the center of the tongue tip contact.

Results

We observed that the visual feedback group was 51.0% more consistent with each other in the position domain, explored 21.5% more sensing surface area, and was 50.7% more uniformly distributed. We found less consistent results when we evaluated velocity and acceleration.

Conclusion

Visual feedback best established a healthy capability reference which can be used for designing new interfaces, quantifying tongue ability, developing new diagnostic and rehabilitation techniques, and studying underlying mechanisms of tongue motor control.
Photoinactivation of the bacteriophage PhiX174 by UVA radiation and visible light in SM buffer and DMEM-F12
Authors: Sommerfeld Florian , Weyersberg Laura , Vatter Petra , Hessling Martin
Published: January 2024

Objective

It has been observed that viruses can be inactivated by UVA radiation and visible light. The aim of this study is to investigate whether a medium that contains a photosensitizer might have an influence on viral reduction under irradiation by UVA, violet or blue light. Test virus is the bacteriophage PhiX174 in the photosensitizer-free SM buffer and DMEM-F12, which contains the known photosensitizer riboflavin.

Results

The determined PhiX174 D90 doses in SM buffer and DMEM were 36.8 J/cm² and 13.6 J/cm² at 366 nm, 153.6 J/cm² and 129.1 J/cm² at 408 nm and 4988 J/cm² and 2477.1 J/cm² at 455 nm, respectively. It can be concluded that the medium has a large influence on the results. This might be caused by the photosensitizer riboflavin in DMEM-F12. As riboflavin is a key component in many cell culture media, irradiation experiments with viruses in cell culture media should be avoided if the investigation of intrinsical photoinactivation properties of viruses is aimed for.
Gene function annotations for the maize NAM founder lines
Authors: Fattel Leila , Yanarella Colleen F. , Ngara Blessing , Johnson Olivia T. , Campbell Darwin A. , Wimalanathan Kokulapalan , Lawrence-Dill Carolyn J.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

We annotated the latest published sequences of the 26 Zea mays Nested Association Mapping (NAM) founder lines using GOMAP, the Gene Ontology Meta Annotator for Plants. The maize NAM panel enables researchers to understand and identify the genetic basis of complex traits. Annotations of predicted functions for genes can help researchers investigate gene-phenotype associations, prioritize candidate genes for phenotypes of interest, and formulate testable hypotheses about gene function/phenotype associations. The creation and release of high-confidence, high-coverage gene function annotation sets for the NAM founder lines is critical to accelerate the generation of knowledge in maize genetics research. GOMAP is a high-throughput computational pipeline that annotates gene functions genome-wide in plant genomes using Gene Ontology functional class terms. Here we report and share GOMAP-generated functional annotations for the NAM founder lines.

Data description

Datasets include the protein sequences used as input, GOMAP-generated annotation files, scripts used to update obsolete terms, and GAF-formatted tab-delimited text files of gene function annotations along with README files that describe formatting, content, and how files relate to each other.
First report of Cryptosporiopsis tarraconensis causing leaf lesion of Corylus avellana in Central Europe (Poland)
Authors: Patejuk Katarzyna , Baturo-Cieśniewska Anna , Kaczmarek-Pieńczewska Agata , Piegdoń Amelia , Fałtynowicz Wiesław , Wasilewska Pola , Ogonowska Magdalena
Published: January 2024

Key message

As a result of our research, we determined that Cryptosporiopsis tarraconensis—as a new species for Central Europe—is the causative agent of leaf lesions in natural populations of hazel (Corylus avellana). Until now, this species had not been described in a natural population of C. avellana or out of the temperate climate. This is the fifth notification of this rare fungus in the world and the first from Central Europe and the natural population of the host.
Effect of glycemic control on cognitive function in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hua Wenting , Du Zouxi , Lu Tingting , Tian Limin
Published: January 2024

Background

It is controversial whether the level of glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) correlates with reduced cognitive function. This study explored the influence of glycemic management quality on cognitive function in T1DM patients by examining the association between glycemic control level and impaired cognitive function.

Methods

The electronic databases PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal database, Wanfang database, and China Biology Medicine disc database were systematically searched to identify eligible studies published before January 2023. Search, selection, and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers. RevMan 5.4 software was used for meta-analysis, and standardized mean difference (SMD) between groups was calculated.

Results

Six studies involving 351 patients with T1DM were included in this study. Compared with T1DM subjects with good glycemic control, those with poor glycemic control performed worse in full-scale intellectual quotient (P = 0.01, SMD = −0.79, 95%CI = −1.42 to −0.17), but no significant differences were observed in verbal intellectual quotient (P = 0.08, SMD = −1.03, 95%CI = −2.20 to 0.13), memory (P = 0.05, SMD = −0.41, 95%CI = −0.82 to 0.00), and attention (P = 0.23, SMD = −0.26, 95%CI = −0.69 to 0.16).

Conclusions

T1DM patients with suboptimal glycemic control may have a worse cognitive function, mainly focusing on the full-scale intellectual quotient. The current study highlights the significance of maintaining satisfactory glycemic control in T1DM patients to improve their health status and quality of life. Standardized tests should be employed in clinical neuropsychological practice to provide early and complete cognitive assessment of individuals with poor glycemic control.

Systematic review registration

The study protocol has been registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023390456).
Necessary and sufficient conditions for discrete inequalities of Jensen–Steffensen type with applications
Authors: Horváth László
Published: January 2024

In this paper we give a necessary and sufficient condition for the discrete Jensen inequality to be satisfied for real (not necessarily nonnegative) weights. The result generalizes and completes the classical Jensen–Steffensen inequality. The validity of the strict inequality is studied. As applications, we first give the form of our result for strongly convex functions, then we study discrete quasi-arithmetic means with real (not necessarily nonnegative) weights, and finally we refine the inequality obtained.
Periodic solutions for second-order even and noneven Hamiltonian systems
Authors: Xiao Juan , Chen Xueting
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we consider the second-order Hamiltonian system $$ \ddot{x}+V^{\prime}(x)=0,\quad x\in \mathbb{R}^{N}. $$

x
¨

+

V
′

(
x
)
=
0
,

x
∈

R
N

.
We use the monotonicity assumption introduced by Bartsch and Mederski (Arch. Ration. Mech. Anal. 215:283–306, 2015). When V is even, we can release the strict convexity hypothesis, which is used by Bartsch and Mederski combined with the monotonicity assumption. When V is noneven, we weaken the strict convexity assumption and introduce another hypothesis (see (V10)). Then in both cases, we can build the homomorphism between the Nehari manifold and the unit sphere of some suitable space. Using the Nehari manifold method introduced by Szulkin (J. Funct. Anal. 257:3802–3822 2009), we prove the existence of T-periodic solutions with minimal period T.
The effects of segmentation on cognitive load, vocabulary learning and retention, and reading comprehension in a multimedia learning environment
Authors: Liu Dongyang
Published: January 2024

Background

Segmentation is a common pedagogical approach in multimedia learning, but its effects on cognitive processes and learning outcomes have yet to be comprehensively explored. Understanding the role of segmentation is crucial, as it has the potential to influence the way instructional materials are designed and delivered in digital learning environments.

Objectives

This research aims to fill this gap by examining the impact of segmentation on cognitive load, vocabulary acquisition, retention, and reading comprehension in a multimedia learning context.

Methodology

Participants were selected from two language schools in Zhengzhou through a multi-stage random sampling method. Ninety teenage students were randomly assigned to six experimental groups. The study utilized a 2 × 3 factorial design to examine segmentation and textual augmentation effects. Four assessment instruments were employed: a Reading Comprehension Test, a Vocabulary Assessment Test, a Cognitive Load Assessment Scale, and a Prior Knowledge Test. The experiment comprised four stages: pre-test, Instruction, post-test, and follow-up. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 22 software, involving descriptive statistics, one-way, and multi-way analysis of variance.

Results

Results indicated that high segmentation significantly impacts cognitive load, vocabulary learning, retention, and reading comprehension across various aspects of multimedia learning. In essence, segmentation reduces cognitive load, supports learning efficiency, and facilitates more profound understanding, vocabulary learning, and retention.

Conclusions and implications

High segmentation in multimedia learning significantly impacts cognitive load, vocabulary learning, comprehension, and retention. Educators should prioritize segmentation for more effective and engaging e-learning experiences.
Effect of tactile and/or kinesthetic stimulation therapy of preterm infants on their parents’ anxiety and depressive symptoms: A systematic review
Authors: Guittard Cassandre , Eutrope Julien , Caillies Stéphanie , Loron Gauthier
Published: January 2024

Background

In the case of preterm birth, the idealized postnatal period is replaced by an anxious and even traumatic experience for parents. Higher prevalence of parental anxiety, postnatal depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder has been observed in mothers of preterm infants up to 18 months after childbirth. There is increasing evidence that proprioceptive stimulation has a beneficial effect on preterms’ short-term outcomes. Could this care also have an impact on parental anxiety and depressive symptoms? We reviewed recent publications on the impact on parents’ anxiety and depressive symptoms of delivering tactile and/or kinesthetic stimulation to their premature newborn.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review by searching the PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar databases for English-language publications from the past 10 years. We focused on the mothers or fathers of infants born preterm (before 37 weeks of gestation) who provided tactile and/or kinesthetic stimulation to their premature newborn in the neonatal intensive care unit. Relevant outcomes were the parents’ anxiety, stress, depressive symptoms, and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, assessed with reliable standardized inventories.

Results

Eleven articles were included in the systematic review. Results suggested a beneficial effect of parents’ early tactile and kinesthetic stimulation of their preterm infants.

Conclusions

These interventions may act as protective factors against the occurrence of anxiety and depressive symptoms in parents and deserve to be studied further in this population.
That head lag is impressive! Infantile botulism in the NICU: a case report
Authors: Wardinger Jaimie E , Darwish Nada , Amatya Shaili
Published: January 2024

Background

Infantile botulism (IB) is a devastating and potentially life-threatening neuromuscular disorder resulting from intestinal colonization by Clostridium botulinum and the resultant toxin production. It can present with constipation, descending paralysis, and, potentially, respiratory failure. Botulism is a diagnosis that is more commonly seen in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) or on the general pediatric wards and would not typically be managed in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and therefore requires high clinical suspicion to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Case presentation

We discuss a case where an infant from central Pennsylvania presented to a Level IV NICU rather than to the PICU for an evaluation for sepsis and was uniquely diagnosed with IB. The infant presented with poor oral feeding and reduced oral intake, hypothermia, and lethargy. His symptoms progressed into hypoxia and acute respiratory failure. Interestingly, this infant had no known exposure to honey or any other identifiable sources of botulism contact. The infant’s twin brother and the other infants who attended the mother’s in-home daycare remained asymptomatic. This infant was initially evaluated and managed for a potential infectious etiology. However, a diagnosis of IB was suspected, and was later confirmed through the detection of botulinum toxin in the infant’s stools. A high level of suspicion allowed for timely treatment with Botulism Immune Globulin neutralizing antibodies (BabyBIG), even prior to confirmatory testing. We describe the process of obtaining BabyBIG, as well as the natural course of illness after treatment in our patient who ultimately made a complete recovery.

Conclusions

This case highlights the importance of considering infantile botulism as a diagnostic possibility even in the absence of risk factors, and the need for vigilance in diagnosing and treating this rare but potentially life-threatening condition. With timely recognition, subsequent treatment with BabyBIG, and supportive care, infants with infantile botulism can be expected to recover completely. This information is particularly important for neonatologists providing care for infants outside the neonatal period, especially during times of high patient census and resulting overflow of pediatric admissions in the NICU.
Preoperative visualization of mammary artery for breast reduction surgery based on computed tomography angiography
Authors: Li Xiaoshi , Geng Jigang , Jin Dayong , Zhu Yinhu , Li Xin , Wang Lei , Qin Yue
Published: January 2024

Background

Macromastia, characterized by an increase in breast size, poses challenges such as elevated body burden and chest oppression, potentially leading to cardiac and pulmonary overload. A crucial aspect of addressing these challenges involves preoperative planning, aiming to acquire detailed images and a 3D model of the internal mammary artery with minimal radiation exposure.

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the clinical significance of computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the mammary artery in preoperative planning for breast reduction surgery.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was conducted on CT images from 60 patients scheduled for breast reduction surgery in the plastic surgery department. These images were processed using a post-processing workstation to extract internal mammary arteries for subsequent 3D modeling. Radiologists and plastic surgeons collaborated to perform preoperative planning based on the 3D model and associated measurement parameters. Subsequent follow-up examinations occurred 4 to 9 months post-surgery, evaluating necrosis rates and complications of the nipple-areola complex (NAC).

Results

A total of 206 blood vessels were reconstructed and extracted in 60 patients, including 156 main arteries and 50 arterioles. There were no instance of NAC necrosis, complications, or infections in the 4–9 months follow-up period.

Conclusions

Preoperative Mammary artery CTA emerged as a valuable tool, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the internal mammary arteries and the primary blood supply in the NAC region. This approach effectively minimizes the risk of NAC supply artery injury during surgery, thereby preserving the functionality of the nipple and areola.
Epidemiologic data on acute gastrointestinal bleeding in Albania: an overview of upper and lower GI bleeding
Authors: Sadiku Edite , Cuko Liri , Pasho Ina , Jucja Orion , Taci Stela , Hoti Kliti , Kraja Bledar
Published: January 2024

Background

Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a significant medical condition that poses a considerable burden on healthcare systems worldwide. To effectively manage and improve outcomes for patients, it is essential to have comprehensive epidemiologic data on GIB, including its various aspects such as upper and lower GIB, treatment modalities, and overall mortality rates.

Aim

The objective of this study is to present the first epidemiological data on acute gastrointestinal bleeding in our country, which includes a comprehensive analysis of upper and lower AGIB, as well as the use of endoscopic and surgical treatments, and an assessment of overall mortality rates for the year 2015.

Material and methods

A retrospective analysis of medical records and databases was conducted to gather epidemiologic data related to acute GIB cases during the specified period. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, diagnostic findings, treatment approaches (including endoscopic and surgical interventions), and overall mortality rates were evaluated and analyzed.

Results

The study included a total of 926 patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding during 2015. Among them, 70% presented with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), while 30% had lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). The remaining cases involved both upper and lower GIB.

Regarding treatment modalities, 80% of patients with UGIB underwent endoscopic interventions, which included various techniques such as endoscopic hemostasis, band ligation, and sclerotherapy. On the other hand, 60% of patients with LGIB required surgical intervention due to the severity or complexity of their bleeding.

The overall mortality rate for acute GIB during the study period was calculated to be 8%. Subgroup analysis revealed that patients with UGIB had a mortality rate of 5%, while patients with LGIB had a mortality rate of 10%.

Conclusions

This study provides important epidemiologic data on acute gastrointestinal bleeding, focusing on upper and lower GIB, endoscopic and surgical treatment approaches, and overall mortality rates during the year 2015 in Albania. It refers to the first data, not published and gathered on this therapeutic field, that can be used as a reference for comparison in the latest publications and reports.

Our study results showed that the higher incidence of UGIB compared to LGIB highlights the need for focused attention on upper gastrointestinal pathologies as significant contributors to GIB cases. The utilization of endoscopic interventions as the primary treatment modality for UGIB indicates the effectiveness and importance of timely endoscopic evaluation and intervention in controlling bleeding and improving patient outcomes.

Based on the findings of this initial study, our future research endeavors were primarily focused on investigating patients within the upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) cohort.
Seismic Soundoff: Solving future challenges for deep exploration
Authors: Geary Andrew
Published: January 2024

Chao Wang and Stephen Graf discuss the state of the art in deep exploration, from ocean-bottom nodes to AI-assisted interpretation.
The influence of environment-based reputation on cooperation in spatial prisoner's dilemma game
Authors: Huang S. , Hu Y. , Liu X. , Fu X.
Published: January 2024

Research has shown that reputation mechanism can be effective in facilitating the generation and maintenance of cooperation in social dilemmas. In the traditional reputation mechanism, the amount of change in reputation is fixed. However, in real life, people's impression scores of a player are often influenced by the environment in which he lives. In other words, we prefer to celebrate the cooperative heroes who are surrounded by defectors and spurn the defectors who are hidden among the many cooperators. Thus, this paper proposes an environment-based reputation model, in which the increment of a player's reputation will be influenced by the local and global environment. The results of the research indicate that the greater the intensity of the environmental influence, the more it promotes the evolution of cooperation. It is worth noting that the local and global environmental focus shows peculiarities. Focusing on the global environment can improve the fraction of cooperators at low defection temptations while focusing on the local environment will facilitate cooperators’ survival at higher defection temptations.
Orthostatic Hypotension Promotes the Progression From Mild Cognitive Impairment to Dementia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Xiong Qiao , Li Fang , Chi Haiyan , Yang Yachao , Li Mengfan , Liu Yingxiao , Zhang Yupan , Leng Bing , Qi Xiaoxiao , Sun Hairong , Li Zhenguang , Zhang Jinbiao
Published: January 2024

Context

In type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), orthostatic hypotension (OH) is associated with cognition, but the mechanisms governing the link between OH and cognition are still unclear.

Objective

We sought to analyze Alzheimer’s disease (AD) biomarkers and the part of complement proteins in modulating the association of OH with cognitive impairment and examine whether OH could accelerate the clinical progression of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia in T2DM.

Methods

We recruited patients with T2DM with MCI and collected general healthy information and blood samples. Complement proteins of astrocyte-derived exosomes were isolated and AD biomarkers of neuronal cell-derived exosomes isolated were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cognitive assessments were performed at patient enrollment and follow-up.

Results

Mediation analysis showed that the influence of OH on cognition in T2DM was partly mediated by baseline AD biomarkers and complement proteins. Cox proportional-hazards regression proved the OH group had a higher risk of developing dementia compared to the T2DM without OH group.

Conclusion

In T2DM with MCI patients, AD biomarkers and complement proteins mediate the effects of OH on cognitive impairment and OH may be a risk factor of progression from MCI to dementia in T2DM.
Two new species of the genus Indoartemon (Gastropoda: Stylommatophora: Streptaxidae) from Northwestern Vietnam
Authors: Sang Do Duc , Son Nguyen Thanh
Published: January 2024

Two new species of the genus Indoartemon are described from Son La Province, Northwestern Vietnam. Indoartemon parallelilabris n. sp., has an oblique-heliciform shell with an axially deflected last whorl. Apertural dentition consists of one large parietal lamella, one triangular palatal lamella, and one distinct, knob-shaped columellar lamella. Indoartemon deformis n. sp., has an approximately triangular aperture, a wide and deep umbilicus, and apertural dentition consisting of one large parietal lamella and one strong palatal lamella. Additionally, new records of Indoartemon fuchsianus tonkinianus Jaeckel, 1950 are provided.
Μοριακή μελέτη για την ανακάλυψη βιοδεικτών και θεραπευτικών στόχων στον καρκίνο της ουροδόχου κύστης
Authors: Μουλαβασίλης Ναπολέων
Published: January 2024

Η διάγνωση, αντιμετώπιση και παρακολούθηση του καρκίνου της ουροδόχου κύστης αποτελεί ένα σύνθετο πρόβλημα της παγκόσμιας υγείας. Ο ρόλος της κυτταρολογίας στη διάγνωση και παρακολούθηση του καρκίνου της ουροδόχου κύστης είναι καθοριστικός. Το αναθεωρημένο σύστημα αναφοράς της κυτταρολογικής εξέτασης των ούρων κατά Paris (TPS) καθόρισε μορφολογικά κριτήρια δίνοντας έμφαση στον υψηλόβαθμης κακοήθειας ουροθηλιακό καρκίνο, μειώνοντας τις αβέβαιες διαγνώσεις. Στη μελέτη μας αξιολογήσαμε τον κίνδυνο κακοήθειας (ROM) για κάθε κατηγορία ΤPS μελετώντας προοπτικά 110 ασθενείς που υπεβλήθησαν σε διουρηθρική αφαίρεση όγκου κύστης στην κλινική μας. Η διαγνωστική ακρίβεια της κυτταρολογικής εξέτασης ούρων αποδείχθηκε πολύ υψηλή για τη διάγνωση του υψηλόβαθμης κακοήθειας ουροθηλιακό καρκίνωμα, υποστηρίζοντας το θεμελιώδη ρόλο της κυτταρολογίας στην ογκολογία του ουροποιητικού. Στη συνέχεια, σε μια προσπάθεια να ενισχύσουμε τη δυνατότητα πρόβλεψης της υποτροπής του καρκίνου της ουροδόχου κύστης, συγκεντρώσαμε μία μετα-κοόρτη τι ανακάλυψης 1135 μικροσυστοιχιών μεταγραφωμάτων καρκίνου ουροδόχου κύστης και προσεγγίσαμε τη νόσο ως μια μοριακή συνέχεια αλλαγών. Χρησιμοποιώντας το στάδιο (Τ) της νόσου ως μεταβλητή ελέγχου που αντικατοπτρίζει την ανάπτυξη και εξέλιξη του όγκου, διερευνήσαμε τις μοριακές αλλαγές και τις αλλαγές στα επίπεδα γονιδιακής έκφρασης. Με την υπόθεση ότι τα επίπεδα έκφρασης των βέλτιστων προγνωστικών βιοδεικτών θα πρέπει να ακολουθούν μια μονοτονική τάση με το υψηλότερο στάδιο της νόσου, καταλήξαμε σε μια υπογραφή 8 γονιδίων ικανή να διαστρωματώνει τους ασθενείς σε χαμηλού και υψηλού κινδύνου για πιθανότητα υποτροπής του καρκίνου της ουροδόχου κύστης. Τέλος, επιλέγοντας ένα από τα 8 γονίδια της γονιδιακής υπογραφής, το ZFP2, που είναι και το λιγότερο μελετημένο στη βιβλιογραφία, δημιουργήσαμε μια προκαταρκτική κοόρτη με 14 ασθενείς που υπεβλήθησαν σε διουρηθρική αφαίρεση του όγκου της κύστης τους στην Ά Ουρολογική κλινική ΕΚΠΑ. Σε αυτά τα δείγματα μετρήσαμε την έκφραση του γονιδίου ZFP2 με ανάλυση ΡT-PCR. Η ανάλυση των δεδομένων επιβεβαίωσε τις παρατηρήσεις μας και μας έδειξε ότι τα επίπεδα έκφρασής του γονιδίου ZFP2 αυξoρυθμίζονται στους ασθενείς εκείνους που παραμένουν ελεύθεροι υποτροπής. Η χρήση του, εφόσον επιβεβαιωθεί σε περισσότερες μελέτες, θα μπορέσει να προταθεί στη παρακολούθηση των ασθενών με καρκίνο της ουροδόχου κύστης.