bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between effects of Clonazepam and Dexmedetomidine as sedative in elective Caesarean section under Subarachnoid anaesthesia
Authors: Karim Md Enayet , Rashid RAM Mustafijur , Akram Mohammad Saleh , Ershad Reza , Kamal Md Mustafa , Hassan Mehdi
Published: August 2023

Background: Regional anaesthesia has become an important anaesthetic technique now a days. Theuse of spinal (subarachnoid) anaesthesia is often limited by the unwillingness of patients to remainawake during surgery. Pharmacologically induced tranquility improves acceptance of regionaltechnique. This study compares Clonazepam and Dexmedetomidine in terms of onset and recovery ofsedation, haemodynamic effects, respiratory effects and adverse effects of both the drugs during electiveCaesarian section under spinal anaesthesia.
Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial included 60 ASA (American Society ofAnaesthesiologists) grade I patients between age 20-40 years undergoing elective Caesarean sectionsunder Subarachnoid anaesthesia during the period January 2022 to June 2022. Patients wererandomly allocated to one of two groups: Clonazepam group (Group C, n=30), who received Clonazepamin a single dose of 0.015mg/kg and Dexmedetomidine group (Group D, n=30), who receivedDexmedetomidine in a single dose of 2mcg/kg. Spinal anaesthesia was conducted by injecting ahyperbaric solution of 0.5% bupivacaine 3ml through a 25G spinal needle at L3-4 level. All parameterswere documented at 5 min intervals until arousal of the patient. The onset of sedation i.e. time from iv(intravenous) injection of Clonazepam or Dexmedetomidine to closure of eye lids (OAA/S score of 3) andthe arousal time from sedation i.e. time from closing of the eye lids to OAA/S score of 5 ( patient isawake clinically) were noted. Any complication during operation was documented. The patient’ssatisfaction with the sedation was assessed by the 5 point ‘Likert verbal rating scale.’
Results: There was no significant difference of mean blood pressure and mean heart rate between thetwo groups at different time intervals (P>0.05). Time of onset of sedation was significantly delayed inDexmedetomidine group (P<0.05). Duration of sedation was comparable between the two groups (Pvalue 0.326). Incidence of peroperative complications were comparable between the two groups (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Although onset of sedation was significantly delayed in Dexmedetomidine group,duration of sedation was not significantly different between Clonazepam and Dexmedetomidine insingle dose technique for sedation during Caesarean section. Haemodynamic effects and adverse effectsof two drugs were comparable. Thus it is recommended that either Clonazepam or Dexmedetomidinecan be used for sedation during subarachnoid block for Caesarean section.
JBSA 2022; 35 (2) : 30-36
SALVIA VERTICILLATA L., ACHILLEA BIEBERSTEINII AFAN., TRAGOPOGON AUREUS BOISS. VE CEPHALARIA PROCERA FISCH. & AVÉ-LALL.’NIN HEMOSTATİK PERFORMANSLARININ İN VİTRO DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: KARAKAYA Songül , ÖZDEMİR Özlem , İNCEKARA Ümit , TÜRKEZ Hasan , SYTAR Oksana , AKSAKAL Özkan
Published: August 2023

Amaç: Hemostaz, kanamayı önlemek veya durdurmak için doğal bir işlev ve doğal bir süreçtir. Günümüzde kanama kontrolü için yeni, ekonomik ve yüksek performanslı ürünler geliştirmek için büyük çaba sarf edilmektedir. Bu çalışmada, halk hekimliğinde farklı amaçlarla kullanılan Salvia verticillata, Achillea biebersteinii, Tragopogon aureus ve Cephalaria procera gibi dört farklı bitki türünün in vitro hemostatik etkilerini değerlendirmeyi amaçladık.
Gereç ve Yöntem: Farklı polaritelerde ekstreler hazırlandı ve hemostatik etkinlikleri optik agregometri kullanılarak belirlendi.
Sonuç ve Tartışma: Mevcut sonuçlar, diğer bitki özleri ile karşılaştırıldığında S. verticillata ekstrelerinin adenozin-difosfat (ADP) (%80.77), kollajen (%80.78) ve araşidonik asit (AA) (%73.71) varlığında trombosit agregasyonu üzerinde en yüksek etkinliği gösterdiğini açıkça ortaya koymuştur. Yine epinefrin (EPI) varlığında en etkili trombosit agregasyonu (%47.27) C. procera uygulamasından sonra belirlendi. Ayrıca, öncelikle etil asetat ekstrelerinin APD, kollajen, AA ve EPI olgusunda en yüksek trombosit agregasyonu yüzdelerini göstermiştir. Sonuç olarak, bulgularımız, özellikle S. verticillata ve C. procera'nın etkili hemostatik ajanların yeni ve doğal kaynakları olabileceğini gösterdi.
Status Gizi dan Gaya Hidup Wanita dengan Sindrom Ovarium Polikistik (PCOS) di Yogyakarta
Authors: Kurniawati Erna Yovi , Hutabarat Naomi Christina , Noviasari Elin
Published: August 2023

PCOS adalah kondisi gangguan endokrin yang mempengaruhi hingga 13% wanita usia reproduksi. Gejala metabolik, psikologis, dan reproduktif PCOS meliputi hiperandrogenisme, menstruasi yang tidak teratur, anovulasi, dan infertilitas. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perubahan berat badan dan faktor eksternal seperti gaya hidup, karakteristik psikososial, dan keterlibatan profesional perawatan kesehatan pada wanita dengan PCOS. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif analitik dengan desain cross-sectional study. Penelitian ini melibatkan wanita usia 18 hingga 40 tahun di Yogyakarta dengan diagnosis sindrom ovarium polikistik. Teknik sampling menggunakan purposive sampling, dari 105 populasi terjangkau discreening berdasarkan kriteria inklusi dan eksklusi dan didapatkan 97 sampel. Pengumpulan data menggunakan Dietary Questionnaire for Epidemiological Studies Versi 2 (Food Frequency Questionnaire-FFQ), International Physical Activity Questionnaires (IPAQ), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS 42). Wanita dengan PCOS 68 % mengalami overweight, rerata PA 886.6 METmin, 72% mengalami stress, kecemasan dan depresi tingkat sedang, 29% mengalami gangguan tidur, 80% tidak merokok dan 94% bukan peminum. Wanita dengan PCOS memiliki tingkat status gizi tinggi  dengan gaya hidup yang tidak sehat. Perlunya terapi pendamping perubahan gaya hidup dan normalisasi status gizi.
Kinematic and Kinetic Assessment of a Novel Polycentric Knee Joint for Powered Walking Assist Exoskeletons
Authors: Séguin Émélie , Doumit Marc
Published: August 2023

Loss of mobility and independence directly affects the quality of life of many vulnerable individuals. In order to address this, researchers have been developing wearable walking assist exoskeletons to aid users with their daily activities. While this technology has advanced tremendously in the past decade, current exoskeletons are yet to be ergonomic, causing discomfort and injuries to the user, leading to early device rejection. This research intends to assess the kinematic and kinetic compatibility of a novel knee joint suitable for exoskeletons. The proposed knee design can be adapted to accommodate a kinematic offset and optimize force delivery. This is achieved by ensuring that the mechanical and biological joint rotation axes are aligned and that the moment arm can be varied to mimic the mechanical characteristics of a biological knee. Model simulations and mechanical testing of fabricated prototypes were achieved to analyze and validate the design. Results confirmed the compatibility of the design, which demonstrated kinematic absolute error values of 1.68 and 0.32 mm for the offset and aligned joints, respectively. It was shown that the moment arm can be varied throughout flexion, allowing future iterations to achieve optimal and effective moment transfer.
KORELASI DAKWAH KYAI DALAM PENGAJIAN KITAB AL-KABA’IR DENGAN TINGKAT KESADARAN SANTRI PADA BAHAYA DOSA BESAR
Authors: Mufidzati Khumairo , Masruroh Sayidah Afyatul
Published: August 2023

Da’wa, in general, is an activity of inviting or exhorting towards good deeds and abstaining from bad deeds, through preaching delivered by a religious teacher (kyai) during the study of the book Al-Kaba'ir. This direct preaching enhances the knowledge, understanding, and awareness of the students (santri) of Pondok Pesantren Nurul Ilmi Wal Fikri Tebuireng Jombang regarding the dangers of major sins, thereby encouraging their attitudes and behaviors to avoid committing major sins and developing a sense of consciousness within themselves. The aim of this research is to determine the correlation between the kyai's preaching in the study of the book Al-Kaba'ir and the level of consciousness among the students regarding the dangers of major sins at Nurul Ilmi Wal Fikri Tebuireng Jombang Islamic boarding school. This study employs a quantitative method, specifically correlational research. It can be concluded from this research that there is a significant, strong, and positive correlation between the kyai's preaching in the study of the book Al-Kaba'ir and the level of consciousness among the students regarding the dangers of major sins. This is evidenced by the assessments of the respondents (students of Pondok Pesantren Nurul Ilmi Wal Fikri Tebuireng Jombang). It is also supported by the results of the Spearman rank correlation test, which yielded a Sig value of 0.000 < 0.05. Therefore, the alternative hypothesis (Ha) is accepted, and the null hypothesis (H0) is rejected, indicating that there is a correlation (relationship) between the kyai's preaching in the study of the book Al-Kaba'ir and the level of consciousness among the students regarding the dangers of major sins. The obtained correlation coefficient is 0.697.
The Democratic Returns of Pluralism in Autocracy: Opposition Representation and Local Development in Cambodia's Commune Councils
Authors: Right Lucy
Published: August 2023

The proliferation of competitive authoritarian regimes has rendered the participation of legal opposition parties commonplace in authoritarian elections, legislatures, and sub-national councils, yet we know little about how the opposition's participation in these institutions affects governance. In this paper, I theorize several mechanisms through which the opposition party's participation in local authoritarian institutions might "matter" for public goods delivery: political competition, opposition oversight, and opposition representation. Drawing on original data on over 16,000 local infrastructure projects in Cambodia, I find evidence that increased political competition alone fails to lead to improvements in local governance; however, increases in the opposition's share of seats in local institutions leads to significant improvements in procurement practices consistent with better governance. The findings suggest that opposition parties' participation in local political institutions can have important effects on authoritarian governance, even when prospects for outright opposition victory remain low.
Intra-country inequality and involvement in GVCs: the case of EU-28
Authors: Duarte Rosa , Espinosa Gracia Adrian , Jiménez Sofía , Sánchez Chóliz Julio
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, production is configured around Global Value Chains, and countries’ involvement in those has become important objectives for achieving economic upgrading. However, social outcomes are neither equally distributed between countries, nor among social classes within countries. Indeed, GVCs and the potential gains of countries' involvement in them, yield uncertain implications of the effects of globalization on inequality within countries. In this context, the aim of this work is to analyze the link between the performance of countries in GVCs (measured trough participation and position) and the levels of intra-country inequality. In more depth, we focus on Europe (specifically, EU28 countries), as it offers a wide and cohesive scenario of developed countries in which to test the effects of linking into GVCs on internal inequalities. We get a positive effect of participation in GVCs on increasing intra-country inequality, while more upstream positions are linked to decreases in income inequality. Besides, if we differentiate by geographical area, Western and Southern European countries would achieve higher reductions in inequality than Northern countries by moving towards more upstream positions.
The role of stress and fluid saturation on the acoustic response of fractured rock
Authors: Lisabeth Harrison P. , Ajo-Franklin Jonathan
Published: August 2023

Standard rock physics models are formulated to describe the behavior of porous sedimentary reservoirs, with clean sandstones being the archetypal system; however, many situations demand geophysical monitoring of rocks with significantly different structures, such as low porosity, fractured reservoirs. Conventional models also suggest that these “stiff” reservoirs can be challenging to monitor seismically due to small fluid substitution effects, but the presence of fractures leads to stress dependence which may be leveraged for remote monitoring purposes. Using samples from the Duperow Formation (dolostone) obtained from the Danielson test well in Kevin Dome, MT, we conducted ultrasonic and multi-scale structural (profilometry, synchrotron micro-tomography, pressure sensitive film) measurements on naturally fractured core in order to characterize the effects of fluid substitution and effective stress on the acoustic response of fractured reservoir rock with a focus in particular on the textural and seismic characteristics of natural fractures. We find that changes in effective stress can yield changes in velocity of up to 20% and changes in attenuation up to 200%. Measured fluid substitution effects are resolvable, but stress effects dominate. These measurements provide insight into the physical processes controlling acoustic response of fractured rocks in general and can also be used to inform monitoring efforts in fractured reservoirs.
Formation and evolution of soil salinization based on multivariate statistical methods in Ningxia Plain, China
Authors: Liu Zhenlin , Gao Maosheng , Sun Qiming , Hou Guohua , Zhao Yinxin
Published: August 2023

The Ningxia Plain, situated in the arid zone of northwest China, is a typical dryland plain that faces significant challenges to sustainable agricultural development due to soil salinization. In this study, we employed multivariate analysis and geostatistical methods to investigate the degree and distribution types of soil salinization and the hydrochemical characteristics of shallow groundwater. We also examined the relationship between soil salinization and hydrogeochemical characteristics by analyzing the sources of groundwater ions. This study developed a hydrogeochemical model to describe the soil salinization process in the Ningxia Plain. The results indicate that the majority of surface soils are alkaline type soils, followed by chloride-sulfate type soils. The groundwater is mainly fresh water and brackish water, with a hydrochemical type of SO4·HCO3–Ca·Mg or SO4·Cl–Ca·Mg. Saline water and salt water are represented by Cl–Na·Mg or Cl·SO4–Na·Mg. We also observed spatial trends in groundwater depth and total dissolved solids (TDS) concentrations that were opposite to soil salinity, which suggests a certain degree of second-order trend effect. Furthermore, the degree of soil salinization increased and then decreased from the pre-mountain alluvial plain to the Yellow River alluvial plain, while the groundwater chemistry ranged from simple to complex. The most severe area of soil salinization was found to be concentrated between Hongguang and Yaofu, which is also the area where shallow groundwater salinity accumulation is mainly influenced by continental salinization. In summary, this study provides valuable insights into the hydrogeochemical characteristics of the Ningxia Plain, which can inform strategies for mitigating soil salinization and promoting sustainable agriculture development in arid regions.
The case report of MOG and NMDAR IgG double positive encephalitis treated with subcutaneous ofatumumab
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wang Li , Tao Yongli , Zhang Xiaofeng , Liu Kai , Song Bo , Xu Yuming
Published: August 2023

The phenotypic spectrum of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)- IgG–associated disorders (MOGAD) has broadened in the past few years, and atypical phenotypes are increasingly recognized. Isolated seizures and MRI-negative brainstem and cerebellar symptoms or encephalitis have rarely been reported as a feature of MOGAD and represent a diagnostic challenge. Meanwhile, the coexistence of MOG IgG and other CNS autoimmune antibodies is infrequent. We report a patient presented with isolated epileptic onset, relapsed with MRI-negative brainstem symptoms and MRI-negative encephalitis. He was positive for MOG IgG throughout the disease course while concomitant NMDAR IgG was not detected positive until second relapse. He showed decreasing response to conventional first-line therapy. The last relapse was during a COVID-19 epidemic with limited inpatient resources. Fortunately, he was ultimately controlled on subcutaneous ofatumumab, a novel fully humanized anti-CD20 mAb. This is the first report about subcutaneous ofatumumab treatment in MOG and NMDAR IgG double positive encephalitis with 12-month follow-up, depicting its potential as a therapeutic option.
Multi-omics in HIV: searching insights to understand immunological non-response in PLHIV
Authors: Espineira Sonia , Flores-Piñas Marina , Chafino Silvia , Viladés Consuelo , Negredo Eugenia , Fernández-Arroyo Salvador , Mallolas Josep , Villar Beatriz , Moreno Santiago , Vidal Francesc , Rull Anna , Peraire Joaquim
Published: August 2023

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) induces persistent suppression of HIV-1 replication and gradual recovery of T-cell counts, and consequently, morbidity and mortality from HIV-related illnesses have been significantly reduced. However, in approximately 30% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) on ART, CD4+ T-cell counts fail to normalize despite ART and complete suppression of HIV viral load, resulting in severe immune dysfunction, which may represent an increased risk of clinical progression to AIDS and non-AIDS events as well as increased mortality. These patients are referred to as “immune inadequate responders”, “immunodiscordant responders” or “immune nonresponders (INR)”. The molecular mechanisms underlying poor CD4+ T-cell recovery are still unclear. In this sense, the use of omics sciences has shed light on possible factors involved in the activity and metabolic dysregulation of immune cells during the failure of CD4+ T-cell recovery in INR. Moreover, identification of key molecules by omics approaches allows for the proposal of potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets to improve CD4+ T-cell recovery and the quality of life of these patients. Hence, this review aimed to summarize the information obtained through different omics concerning the molecular factors and pathways associated with the INR phenotype to better understand the complexity of this immunological status in HIV infection.
Growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonist MIA-602 inhibits inflammation induced by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and bacterial lipopolysaccharide synergism in macrophages and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Granato Giuseppina , Gesmundo Iacopo , Pedrolli Francesca , Kasarla Ramesh , Begani Laura , Banfi Dana , Bruno Stefania , Lopatina Tatiana , Brizzi Maria Felice , Cai Renzhi , Sha Wei , Ghigo Ezio , Schally Andrew V. , Granata Riccarda
Published: August 2023

COVID-19 is characterized by an excessive inflammatory response and macrophage hyperactivation, leading, in severe cases, to alveolar epithelial injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Recent studies have reported that SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein interacts with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to boost inflammatory responses in vitro, in macrophages and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and in vivo. The hypothalamic hormone growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), in addition to promoting pituitary GH release, exerts many peripheral functions, acting as a growth factor in both malignant and non-malignant cells. GHRH antagonists, in turn, display potent antitumor effects and antinflammatory activities in different cell types, including lung and endothelial cells. However, to date, the antinflammatory role of GHRH antagonists in COVID-19 remains unexplored. Here, we examined the ability of GHRH antagonist MIA-602 to reduce inflammation in human THP-1-derived macrophages and PBMCs stimulated with S protein and LPS combination. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis revealed the presence of GHRH receptor and its splice variant SV1 in both THP-1 cells and PBMCs. Exposure of THP-1 cells to S protein and LPS combination increased the mRNA levels and protein secretion of TNF-α and IL-1β, as well as IL-8 and MCP-1 gene expression, an effect hampered by MIA-602. Similarly, MIA-602 hindered TNF-α and IL-1β secretion in PBMCs and reduced MCP-1 mRNA levels. Mechanistically, MIA-602 blunted the S protein and LPS-induced activation of inflammatory pathways in THP-1 cells, such as NF-κB, STAT3, MAPK ERK1/2 and JNK. MIA-602 also attenuated oxidative stress in PBMCs, by decreasing ROS production, iNOS and COX-2 protein levels, and MMP9 activity. Finally, MIA-602 prevented the effect of S protein and LPS synergism on NF-кB nuclear translocation and activity. Overall, these findings demonstrate a novel antinflammatory role for GHRH antagonists of MIA class and suggest their potential development for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as COVID-19 and related comorbidities.
Case report: Exploring teduglutide as a therapeutic option for refractory microscopic colitis: insights and implications
Authors: Rim Daniel Sungku , Shin Jeong-Hun , Jacoba Isa , Sharma Kavita , Kim Dong Wook
Published: August 2023

Microscopic colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon characterized by chronic watery diarrhea, generally with endoscopically normal or nonspecific findings, and can be diagnosed by histopathological examination of colon mucosal biopsies. Some patients experience severe symptoms that do not respond to conventional medical treatment. A glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) analog, teduglutide, is used in patients with short bowel syndrome (SBS) dependent on parenteral support. In this case report, we describe a patient with microscopic colitis who demonstrated significant symptom improvement following teduglutide treatment.
Structure-dependent activity of plant natural products against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Moreno Cardenas Calisto , Çiçek Serhat S.
Published: August 2023

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the major causes for nosocomial infections and has been classified as “high priority pathogen” by the World Health Organization. Its ability to develop resistances has been a challenge for the last decades and is still a threat to health care systems, as strains with resistances to the so-called drugs of last resort have been discovered. Therefore, new antibiotics are urgently needed. Natural products are an important source for the development of new drugs, thereby mostly serving as lead compounds for further modification. In this review, the data on plant natural products with reported anti-MRSA activity until the end of 2022 is discussed, highlighting the most effective drugs with respect to their inhibitory concentrations as well as with regard to eventual synergistic effects with existing antibiotics. In the latter sense, the class of alkaloids must be mentioned, exhibiting additive or synergistic effects by inhibiting bacterial efflux pumps. With regard to the antibiotic activity, phloroglucinol derivatives certainly belong to the most promising compounds, revealing several candidates with remarkable effects, e.g., lupulone, ivesinol, rhodomyrtone, aspidinol, or hyperforin. Also, the class of terpenoids yielded noteworthy compounds, such as the sesquiterpene lactones parthenolide and lactopicrin as well as acetophenone sesquiterpenes and sphaerodiene type diterpenoids, respectively. In addition, pronounced effects were observed for the macrolide neurymenolide A and three flavonol dicoumaroylrhamnosides.
Intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke in COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Stuckart Isabella , Kabsha Ahmed , Siepmann Timo , Barlinn Kristian , Barlinn Jessica
Published: August 2023

Background

The impact of COVID-19 on clinical outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients receiving reperfusion therapy remains unclear. We therefore aimed to synthesize the available evidence to investigate the safety and short-term efficacy of reperfusion therapy in this patient population.

Methods

We searched the electronic databases MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library Reviews for randomized controlled trials and observational studies that investigated the use of intravenous thrombolysis, endovascular therapy, or a combination of both in acute ischemic stroke patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, compared to controls. Our primary safety outcomes included any intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), symptomatic ICH and all-cause in-hospital mortality. Short-term favorable functional outcomes were assessed at discharge and at 3 months. We calculated pooled risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model. Heterogeneity was evaluated using Cochran’s Q test and I2 statistics.

Results

We included 11 studies with a total of 477 COVID-19 positive and 8,092 COVID-19 negative ischemic stroke patients who underwent reperfusion therapy. COVID-19 positive patients exhibited a significantly higher risk of experiencing any ICH (RR 1.54, 95% CI 1.16–2.05, p < 0.001), while the nominally increased risk of symptomatic ICH in these patients did not reach statistical significance (RR 2.04, 95% CI 0.97–4.31; p = 0.06). COVID-19 positive stroke patients also had a significantly higher in-hospital mortality compared to COVID-19 negative stroke patients (RR 2.78, 95% CI 2.15–3.59, p < 0.001). Moreover, COVID-19 positive stroke patients were less likely to achieve a favorable functional outcome at discharge (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.51–0.86, p < 0.001) compared to COVID-19 negative patients, but this difference was not observed at 3-month follow-up (RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.14–2.91, p = 0.56).

Conclusion

COVID-19 appears to have an adverse impact on acute ischemic stroke patients who undergo reperfusion therapy, leading to an elevated risk of any ICH, higher mortality and lower likelihood of favorable functional outcome.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022309785.
Neural control of cerebral blood flow: scientific basis of scalp acupuncture in treating brain diseases
Authors: Jin Guan-Yuan , Jin Louis Lei , Jin Bonnie Xia , Zheng Jin , He Belinda Jie , Li Shi-Jiang
Published: August 2023

Scalp acupuncture (SA), as a modern acupuncture therapy in the treatment of brain diseases, especially for acute ischemic strokes, has accumulated a wealth of experience and tons of success cases, but the current hypothesized mechanisms of SA therapy still seem to lack significant scientific validity, which may not be conducive to its ultimate integration into mainstream medicine. This review explores a novel perspective about the mechanisms of SA in treating brain diseases based on its effects on cerebral blood flow (CBF). To date, abundant evidence has shown that CBF is significantly increased by stimulating specific SA points, areas or nerves innervating the scalp, which parallels the instant or long-term improvement of symptoms of brain diseases. Over time, the neural pathways that improve CBF by stimulating the trigeminal, the facial, and the cervical nerves have also been gradually revealed. In addition, the presence of the core SA points or areas frequently used for brain diseases can be rationally explained by the characteristics of nerve distribution, including nerve overlap or convergence in certain parts of the scalp. But such characteristics also suggest that the role of these SA points or areas is relatively specific and not due to a direct correspondence between the current hypothesized SA points, areas and the functional zones of the cerebral cortex. The above evidence chain indicates that the efficacy of SA in treating brain diseases, especially ischemic strokes, is mostly achieved by stimulating the scalp nerves, especially the trigeminal nerve to improve CBF. Of course, the mechanisms of SA in treating various brain diseases might be multifaceted. However, the authors believe that understanding the neural regulation of SA on CBF not only captures the main aspects of the mechanisms of SA therapy, but also facilitates the elucidation of other mechanisms, which may be of greater significance to further its clinical applications.
Brain organoid data synthesis and evaluation
Authors: Brémond-Martin Clara , Simon-Chane Camille , Clouchoux Cédric , Histace Aymeric
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Datasets containing only few images are common in the biomedical field. This poses a global challenge for the development of robust deep-learning analysis tools, which require a large number of images. Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) are an increasingly used solution to expand small datasets, specifically in the biomedical domain. However, the validation of synthetic images by metrics is still controversial and psychovisual evaluations are time consuming.

Methods

We augment a small brain organoid bright-field database of 40 images using several GAN optimizations. We compare these synthetic images to the original dataset using similitude metrcis and we perform an psychovisual evaluation of the 240 images generated. Eight biological experts labeled the full dataset (280 images) as syntetic or natural using a custom-built software. We calculate the error rate per loss optimization as well as the hesitation time. We then compare these results to those provided by the similarity metrics. We test the psychovalidated images in a training step of a segmentation task.

Results and discussion

Generated images are considered as natural as the original dataset, with no increase of the hesitation time by experts. Experts are particularly misled by perceptual and Wasserstein loss optimization. These optimizations render the most qualitative and similar images according to metrics to the original dataset. We do not observe a strong correlation but links between some metrics and psychovisual decision according to the kind of generation. Particular Blur metric combinations could maybe replace the psychovisual evaluation. Segmentation task which use the most psychovalidated images are the most accurate.
The impact of Alzheimer’s disease risk factors on the pupillary light response
Authors: Sparks Sierra , Pinto Joana , Hayes Genevieve , Spitschan Manuel , Bulte Daniel P.
Published: August 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, and its prevalence is increasing and is expected to continue to increase over the next few decades. Because of this, there is an urgent requirement to determine a way to diagnose the disease, and to target interventions to delay and ideally stop the onset of symptoms, specifically those impacting cognition and daily livelihood. The pupillary light response (PLR) is controlled by the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system, and impairments to the pupillary light response (PLR) have been related to AD. However, most of these studies that assess the PLR occur in patients who have already been diagnosed with AD, rather than those who are at a higher risk for the disease but without a diagnosis. Determining whether the PLR is similarly impaired in subjects before an AD diagnosis is made and before cognitive symptoms of the disease begin, is an important step before using the PLR as a diagnostic tool. Specifically, identifying whether the PLR is impaired in specific at-risk groups, considering both genetic and non-genetic risk factors, is imperative. It is possible that the PLR may be impaired in association with some risk factors but not others, potentially indicating different pathways to neurodegeneration that could be distinguished using PLR. In this work, we review the most common genetic and lifestyle-based risk factors for AD and identify established relationships between these risk factors and the PLR. The evidence here shows that many AD risk factors, including traumatic brain injury, ocular and intracranial hypertension, alcohol consumption, depression, and diabetes, are directly related to changes in the PLR. Other risk factors currently lack sufficient literature to make any conclusions relating directly to the PLR but have shown links to impairments in the parasympathetic nervous system; further research should be conducted in these risk factors and their relation to the PLR.
Sinapic acid alleviates inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through localization of tight junction proteins by direct binding to TAK1 and improves intestinal microbiota
Authors: Jang Sehyeon , Kim San , So Bo Ram , Kim Younghoon , Kim Chang-Kil , Lee Jeong Jae , Jung Sung Keun
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Although sinapic acid is found in various edible plants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties including colitis, its underlying mechanism and effects on the composition of the gut microbiota are largely unknown. We aimed to identify an early response kinase that regulates the localization of tight junction proteins, act at the onset of the inflammatory response, and is regulated by sinapic acid. Additionally, we analyzed the effects of sinapic acid on the homeostasis of the intestinal microbiome.

Methods: We examined the aberrant alterations of early response genes such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and activating transcription factor (ATF)-2 within 2 h of sinapic acid treatment in fully differentiated Caco-2 cells with or without lipopolysaccharide and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α stimulation. To confirm the effect of sinapic acid on stimulus-induced delocalization of tight junction proteins, including zonula occludens (ZO)-1, occludin, and claudin-2, all tight junction proteins were investigated by analyzing a fraction of membrane and cytosol proteins extracted from Caco-2 cells and mice intestines. Colitis was induced in C57BL/6 mice using 2% dextran sulfate sodium and sinapic acid (2 or 10 mg/kg/day) was administrated for 15 days. Furthermore, the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical activities of sinapic acid for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) evaluated.

Results: We confirmed that sinapic acid significantly suppressed the stimulus-induced delocalization of tight junction proteins from the intestinal cell membrane and abnormal intestinal permeability as well as the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β and TNF-α in vitro and in vivo. Sinapic acid was found to bind directly to transforming growth factor beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) and inhibit the stimulus-induced activation of NF-κB as well as MAPK/ATF-2 pathways, which in turn regulated the expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MLCK). Dietary sinapic acid also alleviated the imbalanced of gut microbiota and symptoms of IBD, evidenced by improvements in the length and morphology of the intestine in mice with colitis.

Discussion: These findings indicate that sinapic acid may be an effective nutraceutical and pharmaceutical agent for IBD treatment as it targets TAK1 and inhibits subsequent NF-κB and ATF-2 signaling.
Pedigree-based QTL analysis of flower size traits in two multi-parental diploid rose populations
Authors: Rawandoozi Zena , Young Ellen L. , Liang Shuyin , Wu Xuan , Fu Qiuyi , Hochhaus Tessa , Yan Muqing , Rawandoozi Maad Y. , Klein Patricia E. , Byrne David H. , Riera-Lizarazu Oscar
Published: August 2023

Rose (Rosa spp.) is one of the most economically important ornamental species worldwide. Flower diameter, flower weight, and the number of petals and petaloids are key flower-size parameters and attractive targets for DNA-informed breeding. Pedigree-based analysis (PBA) using FlexQTL software was conducted using two sets of multi-parental diploid rose populations. Phenotypic data for flower diameter (Diam), flower weight (fresh (FWT)/dry (DWT)), number of petals (NP), and number of petaloids (PD) were collected over six environments (seasons) at two locations in Texas. The objectives of this study were to 1) identify new and/or validate previously reported QTL(s); 2) identify SNP haplotypes associated with QTL alleles (Q-/q-) of a trait and their sources; and 3) determine QTL genotypes for important rose breeding parents. Several new and previously reported QTLs for NP and Diam traits were identified. In addition, QTLs associated with flower weight and PD were identified for the first time. Two major QTLs with large effects were mapped for all traits. The first QTL was at the distal end of LG1 (60.44–60.95 Mbp) and was associated with Diam and DWT in the TX2WOB populations. The second QTL was consistently mapped in the middle region on LG3 (30.15–39.34 Mbp) and associated with NP, PD, and flower weight across two multi-parent populations (TX2WOB and TX2WSE). Haplotype results revealed a series of QTL alleles with differing effects at important loci for most traits. This work is distinct from previous studies by conducting co-factor analysis to account for the DOUBLE FLOWER locus while mapping QTL for NP. Sources of high-value (Q) alleles were identified, namely, ‘Old Blush’ and Rosa wichuraiana from J14-3 for Diam, while ‘Violette’ and PP-J14-3 were sources for other traits. In addition, the source of the low-value (q) alleles for Diam was ‘Little Chief’, and Rosa wichuraiana through J14-3 was the source for the remaining traits. Hence, our results can potentially inform parental/seedling selections as means to improve ornamental quality in roses and a step towards implementing DNA-informed techniques for use in rose breeding programs.
Development and initial validation of the Career Self-Management scale for Chinese coaches
Authors: Zhang Chonghui , Liu Jing-Dong
Published: August 2023

Objective

The purpose of the study was to develop and initially validate a context-specific scale assessing Career Self-Management for Chinese coaches (Career Self-Management Scale-CC; CSMS-CC).

Methods

Firstly, qualitative data obtained from in-depth interview with coaches were contently analyzed to generate potential CSMS-CC items. The content validity of the items was evaluated by a panel of experts. Secondly, the factor structure and item performance of the CSMS-CC were examined using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and internal consistency reliability of its subscales were evaluated in sample 1 (n= 229, 24.01% females). Thirdly, factor structure of the CSMS-CC was further examined using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in sample 2 (n= 295, 32.54% females). Internal consistency reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’ alpha coefficient and composite reliability. Nomological validity was examined using Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling (SEM) by investigating the correlations between CSMS-CC subscales with career success. Finally, measurement invariance and latent mean difference of the CSMS-CC was examined across gender, professional title and coaching class using multiple-group CFA (MGCFA).

Results

Based on the results of the content analysis and content validity evaluation, 18 CSMS-CC items were retained for further analysis. Results of EFA in sample 1 revealed that eight items were problematic and removed. The second round of EFA revealed that three components were retained and labelled as Networking Behavior (4 items), Training Exploration (3 items), and Guanxi Development (3 items). Results of CFA in sample 2 suggested that the 10-item three-correlated-factors model of CSMS-CC demonstrated acceptable model fit to the data, χ2= 135.01, df = 32,p< 0.01, CFI = 0.91, TLI = 0.90, SRMR = 0.05, RMSEA = 0.092 (90% CI = 0.076–0.108). Composite reliability (ranging from 0.84 to 0.88) and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients (ranging from 0.78 to 0.81) of three subscales were found satisfactory. Nomological validity was supported by the results that total score and subscale scores of the CSMS-CC were significantly associated with internal marketability and external marketability. It was found that the CSMS-CC measurement model was strict invariant across gender, professional title and coaching class. Significant differences on all three subscales across professional title and on Guanxi development across coaching class were revealed.

Conclusion

Results of this study provided initial support for the psychometric properties of the 10-item CSMS-CC, which suggested that the CSMS-CC could be used for measuring the career self-management of Chinese coaches.
Piloting, testing and scaling parental training: a multi-partnership approach in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Anago Romuald , Forzy Tiphaine , Guei Sosthene , Pelras Charlotte , Ramde Samuel , Tevenart Camille , Vera Rueda Julieta , Macours Karen
Published: August 2023

Background and objectives

Early Childhood Development is high on the policy agenda in Côte d’Ivoire, where the government has identified it as part of its overall approach to improve human capital outcomes. This paper describes a multi-partner approach to piloting, monitoring, adaption, testing and scaling of parental training for ECD. It discusses the learnings from the pilots, and present early evaluation results from two RCTs, focusing on parental participation in trainings and acceptability of messages, with the objective to inform national scaling strategies. As such, this paper illustrates how “MEL systems contributed to ensuring that positive early childhood development (ECD) outcomes were improved as interventions were seeking to achieve scale,” one of the research questions outlined in the call description for the special issue. The paper further provides a real-world example of “How MEL systems can support contributions and buy-in from a variety of stakeholders as ECD interventions (seek to) achieve impacts at scale (e.g., through the public system)?

Methods

Five training approaches to improve caregivers’ knowledge and practices around nutrition, preventive health, stimulation, and disciplining were piloted at small scale between 2018 and 2020. An intensive process evaluation was embedded to identify strengths and weaknesses, adapt through an iterative phase, and ultimately make recommendations for their scale up against 11 defined criteria. In early 2021, the two most promising approaches were scaled through two clustered randomized control trials to more than 150 villages each. A cost-effectiveness study was designed in consultation with government stakeholders, centered around targeting different caregivers and decision makers in the household and the extended family and on enhancing community interactions around ECD.

Results

The evaluation of the five pilots identified one model recommended to be scaled, and one other model to scale after further adaptations. Monitoring and evaluation data from the two models at scale show high levels of participation and acceptability of core messages. Experimental variations involving community champions and fathers increase participation.

Conclusion

The iterative and multi-partner process led to two models of parenting training that have wide acceptability. Future work will analyze impacts on cognitive and socio-emotional outcomes, together with cost analysis.
A coalition-driven examination of organization capacity to address food insecurity in Greater Houston: a qualitative research study
Authors: John Jemima C. , Gonzalez Jennifer , Chan Sara-Grace , McPherson Heidi , Aiyer Jennifer N. , Galvan Esperanza , Browning Nicole , Sharma Shreela V.
Published: August 2023

Background

Economic and social hardships have worsened food insecurity, particularly among low income and racial-ethnic minority groups. Given the core goal of the 150+ member Houston Health Equity Collective (HEC) to reduce food insecurity by 5% in 2025, we explored member organizations' capacity and challenges faced in screening and responding to food insecurity through care coordination efforts.

Methods

A twice-administered Qualtrics XM survey (Provo, Utah) with 76 organizations, followed by five focus groups with 22 of these organizations, explored reach and response efforts to food insecurity. Qualitative assessments lasted between 0.5 to 1.5 h, were audio-recorded, cleaned, coded, and thematically analyzed using NVivo, version 11 (Burlington, Massachusetts). The qualitative study was guided by a general inductive approach. In total, over 6 h of audiovisual recording were extracted, and over 100 pages of text exported to NVivo for data analysis. The research team read and coded transcripts independently using the codebook, and met routinely to discuss and resolve codes -resulting in numerous revisions to the codebook. Coding structure was discussed at multiple meetings and differences were addressed through consensus. Predominant qualitative themes impacting food insecurity screening were “stigma and cultural-related barriers”, “clinic capacity and attitudes”, “need to focus on upstream influences of food insecurity and SDOH needs”, “impact of COVID-19”, and “need for HEC system responses”. Main recommendations to enhance screening and reach included improving staff culture, enhancing cultural sensitivity across organizational practices, and using shared technology to coordinate care. Respondents stated that the HEC can drive these recommendations through networking opportunities, use of shared resource directory, and placing focus on upstream factors.

Conclusions

Recommendations to target food insecurity must focus on organizational staff responsiveness and sensitivity to patients' needs. Of equal importance is the need for increased attention to the upstream influencers and integration of systems-level interventions to holistically target the barriers impacting food insecurity.
“I fear those things”: non-uptake of contraceptives, and barriers to use among adolescent girls and young women at high risk of HIV infection in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Kawuma Rachel , Lunkuse Jane Frances , Ssembajjwe Wilber , Kayesu Ivy , Price Matt A. , Brickley Debbie B. , Abaasa Andrew , Mayanja Yunia
Published: August 2023

Background

Adolescent girls and young women involved in risky behaviors are vulnerable to multiple health problems, yet sexual and reproductive health services remain underutilized. We evaluated factors associated with non-uptake of contraceptives and barriers to use among adolescent girls and young women (14–24 years old) at high risk of HIV infection in an environment where contraceptives were provided at no cost.

Methods

We conducted a mixed methods study, utilizing data from a baseline cross sectional survey and qualitative in-depth interviews. Survey participants tested negative for pregnancy and reported willingness to use contraception. Non-uptake of contraceptives was defined as not taking contraception at any study visit (baseline and throughout the study). Logistic regression model was used to assess factors associated with non-uptake of contraceptives. We purposively selected participants for interviews to discuss their knowledge and experiences with contraceptives and make suggestions to improve uptake. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically.

Results

All 285 participants were included in the analysis. Out of the 285 participants 127 were not using contraceptives and of the 127, 44 (34.6%) did not take up any method throughout the study while 43 of the 83 remaining participants (who took up a method) chose male condoms only. Non-uptake of contraceptives was less likely among older women (20–24 years) (aOR = 0.32, 95% CI 0.16–0.89) compared to younger women (less than 20 years). Qualitative data showed that concerns about future fertility, fear of associated side effects and influence from close relations contributed to non-uptake of contraception.

Conclusion

Non-uptake of contraceptives was common despite the promotion and provision of contraceptives in the context of a research study mainly because adolescents lack autonomy while making contraceptive decisions. Identifying and addressing their concerns and continued counselling on contraceptive use alongside condom promotion may improve uptake and utilization of contraceptives.