bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of the Extracts of Hormophysa triquetra and Padina gymnospora
Authors: Osman Nehal A.H.K. , Arooj Madeeha , Kang Hee-Kyoung , Hyun Jin Won , Koh Young-Sang
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Hormophysa triquetra and Padina gymnospora are widely distributed seaweeds in subtropical and tropical seas; however, there are limited or no reports on their biomedical applications. The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition of these species and present their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Methods: The total phenolic content in an 80% methanol extract of the species was measured. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to assess the components of the extracts. Antioxidant activity against AAPH- or H2O2-induced oxidative stress in Vero cells was measured using the MTT assay. For anti-inflammatory assessment, the Griess assay was used to measure nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay was employed to measure the inhibition of cytokine production in LPS-stimulated bone marrow-derived dendritic cells. Results: Both seaweed species exhibited significant phenolic content. HPLC profiles revealed 19 compounds, with cinnamic acid (29.63 µg/g) and pyrogallol (25.33 µg/g) dominating in Hormophysa triquetra and Padina gymnospora, respectively. GC-MS profiles were dominant for fatty acids and their derivatives, along with diterpenes. The extracts exhibited protective effects against oxidative stress. Furthermore, the extracts inhibited the production of NO and cytokines in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of the species against oxidative stress and inflammation, suggesting their applicability in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
The effectiveness of home-based transcranial direct current stimulation on chronic pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Antonioni Annibale , Baroni Andrea , Fregna Giulia , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Straudi Sofia
Published: November 2024

Objective

As highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, identifying strategies for home-based patient management is crucial. As pain is highly prevalent and imposes significant burdens, interest in its remote management is steadily increasing. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) seems promising in this context.

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness of home-based tDCS in pain management (PROSPERO, CRD42023452899). The extracted data included clinical conditions, interventions, comparators, outcome measures, adverse effects, and risk of bias; the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment was carried out.

Results

12 records (9 randomized controlled trials [RCTs], 446 participants, 266 undergoing tDCS) were included in the systematic review. The meta-analysis showed that home-based tDCS might produce large and clinically relevant improvement in chronic pain intensity at the end of the intervention (standard mean difference [SMD] −0.95, 95% CI −1.34 to −0.56; p < 0.01; 404 participants, low certainty), as well as small clinically unimportant improvement at short-term follow-up (SMD −0.50, 95% CI −0.82 to −0.19; p < 0.01; 160 participants, moderate certainty). A subgroup analysis showed that it might clinically improve the chronic pain related to fibromyalgia and knee osteoarthritis. Moreover, home-based tDCS seems to modulate pressure pain threshold, heat pain threshold, and heat and cold tolerance at the end of the intervention. Notably, tDCS appeared to be generally safe, well-accepted and easily applied at home.

Conclusions

Low to moderate certainty evidence suggests that home-based self-administered tDCS is a safe and effective tool for managing various types of chronic pain. Further well-designed, large-scale RCTs are warranted.
The Role of Cynicism in Social Responses to the Climate Emergency
Authors: Davidson Debra J.
Published: November 2024

Cynicism poses a potentially formidable barrier to personal and collective investments in addressing the climate emergency that has yet to receive substantive research attention. In this article, the results of a qualitative study involving interviews with 74 participants in Canada and the United States regarding personal perspectives on climate change are presented. Several different forms of cynicism were expressed across the sample, including media cynicism, government cynicism, policy cynicism, political economy cynicism, human nature cynicism, and science cynicism. Using cooccurrence analysis, cynicism was found to be strongly associated with confidence in societal response to the climate emergency, and personal feelings of powerlessness. Although not the most prevalent cynicism code, political economy cynicism had the strongest level of cooccurrence with low response confidence and powerlessness. The implications for research and praxis are discussed.
Nurse-Led Mobile Phone Intervention to Promote Self-Management in Type 2 Diabetes in Ghana: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Asante Ernest , Carter Gillian , McAneney Helen , Bam Victoria , Sarfo-Kantanka Osei , Prue Gillian
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to test the effectiveness of a nurse-led mobile phone intervention (NMPI) on glycemic variability and self-management among people living with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in Ghana.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, the intervention group received a 3-month NMPI program plus standard care, and the control group received standard care alone in a tertiary health care setting. Ninety-eight participants (baseline A1C > 7%) were randomized 1:1 to either NMPI or standard care group. The primary study outcomes were changes in A1C testing and self-management assessed using the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities tool at baseline and end of the study.

Results

The intervention group had statistically significant improvement in their mean A1C level from baseline to the end of the study. In comparison, the control group also had improvement in their mean A1C level but was not statistically significant. Consistently, the intervention participants had better statistically significant improvements in self-management behaviors than the control group. There was a medium, negative correlation between A1C changes and overall self-care changes for the intervention group, whereas that of the control group was smaller.

Conclusions

Study findings have shown that a tailored NMPI program in addition to standard care could improve glycemic variability and self-management among people living with poorly managed T2DM in Ghana better than standard care alone.
Mathematics for social justice: An action research study with working-class children in a Pakistani classroom
Authors: Khan Shugufta Sojhro , Rizvi Nusrat Fatima
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the integration of social justice in mathematics teaching in Pakistani classrooms. It has been widely observed that mathematics lessons usually focus on factual recall and procedural fluency which do not promote students’ capability of using mathematics for critical analysis of societal practices. Therefore, critical mathematics education makes an effort to shift the focus of mathematics teaching from procedural fluency to thinking critically about mathematical concepts, understanding the socio-political context of mathematics, and promoting a more inclusive and equitable learning environment. Hence, this approach recognizes that mathematics is not a neutral subject but is influenced by cultural, social, and historical factors. Like many countries, Pakistan also views education as a prerequisite for fighting poverty, improving living standards, and eliminating all forms of discrimination. So, these purposes of education can be better achieved by developing a sense of awareness and importance of social issues among students. Therefore, this action research explored the integration of the concepts of social justice in teaching mathematics. Consequently, the study incorporated a range of mathematical concepts such as percentages, fractions, and decimals to engage students in discussion, debate, and thinking to explore alternatives to address the inequalities prevalent in the society. The study concludes that social justice pedagogy allows students to explore mathematics beyond the classrooms, develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts, and acquire knowledge to become critical individuals. Moreover, integrating social justice issues into teaching mathematics has potential to help students develop an awareness of social inequality and a sense of social agency.
Simplified calculation model for typical Dou-gong under horizontal load
Authors: Chen Qi , Chun Qing , Li Pan , Zhang Chengwen , Jia Xiaohu , Lin Yijie , Hua Yiwei
Published: November 2024

Dou-gong is important component of ancient timber buildings in China, Japan, and South Korea, etc. It has important decoration and load transferring functions. Due to its complex structure, Dou-gong is difficult to be fully analyzed in large-scale structured. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a reliable and simplified Dou-gong calculation model. In this study, some traditional Chinese timber buildings built in the Song and Yuan dynasties (960–1368 AD) are investigated, and the characteristics of the typical Dou-gong model are obtained. Experimental study and refined finite-element analysis of the typical Dou-gong model is then carried out to study the load transferring mechanism under horizontal load. Then, the load path is extracted from the force-flow perspective to establish a simplified beam element model. The simplified model is then numerically and experimentally verified. The results show that the simplified model has a good consistency with the experimental model, and it is suitable for large-scale structural analysis of ancient timber buildings.
3D morphometric analysis of the epiglottis using CBCT: age and gender differences
Authors: Özeren Keşkek Ceren , Aytuğar Emre
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aimed to perform a comprehensive morphometric analysis of the epiglottis using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images, including the determination of epiglottis dimensions, the investigation of shape variations, and the assessment of their relationship with gender and age.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on high-quality CBCT images from 100 patients, obtained using the NewTom 5G system. In CBCT images, epiglottis thicknesses (right, midline, left) and horizontal angle at three levels (suprahyoid, hyoid, infrahyoid) were measured in axial sections, while the length and vertical angle of epiglottis were measured in midsagittal view. Epiglottis shapes were identified through 3D visualization.

Results

The midline epiglottis thicknesses were 4.68 mm at the suprahyoid level, 5.51 mm at the hyoid level, and 6.80 mm at the infrahyoid levels. Epiglottis thicknesses and length were statistically significantly greater in males. Of the 100 patients, 51 had a normal curvature, 41 had a flat epiglottis, and 8 had an omega epiglottis. The omega-shaped epiglottis was significantly longer compared to both the flat and normal curvature types (p = 0.011). There was a positive correlation between age and epiglottis thicknesses at the suprahyoid level and horizontal angles at three levels.

Conclusions

This study visualizes epiglottis morphology and uncovers significant morphometric differences. Males exhibit greater epiglottis thickness and length compared to females, while the omega-shaped epiglottis is notably longer than other types. These findings underscore the need for further investigation into the clinical relevance of these morphometric differences, particularly in improving airway management and refining approaches to swallowing function.
Effect of a playful parenting programme on early childhood development and care outcomes of young children in vulnerable communities: findings from a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Sargsyan Viktoria , Walea Harriet , Mahat Bal , Tamale Robert , Chaudhary Ramdhani , Birungi Janet , Marasini Sabina , Thapa Nisha , Kuikel Bihari Sharan , Karmacharya Biraj , Rasheed Muneera A.
Published: November 2024

Background

World Vision launched the Inclusive Playful Parenting for a Brighter Childhood (IPP4BC) project in identified vulnerable communities in Nepal and Uganda to mitigate risk for children at risk of poor development due to COVD 19. The intervention, based on the nurturing care framework, offered a customized parenting curriculum for young children, emphasizing holistic development through behavior change approaches tailored to local contexts.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of the IPP4BC project, on early childhood development (ECD) and care outcomes of children under 6 years in vulnerable communities in Nepal and Uganda, particularly those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

The intervention was delivered by trained facilitators over a 7-month period in different arms defined by the dosage: high (10 group sessions, 4 home visits) medium (5 group sessions, 2 home visits) or low (delivery of key messages through media) dose. An endline evaluation designed as quasi-experimental non-equivalent control groups post-test only study, assessed the effect of the project utilizing the Malawi Development Assessment Tool (MDAT) for child outcomes and the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) for caregiver outcomes. Additionally, an implementation survey was conducted to assess program fidelity and participant engagement.

Findings

In Nepal, higher intervention doses were associated with significantly better child development outcomes (High dose M = 1.20, SD = 2.22, Medium dose M = 1.01, SD = 1.99; Low dose M = 0.43, SD = 2.32, p < 0.001) whereas in Uganda, only medium dose (M = -0.03, SD = 1.28) showed significant improvement (High dose M = -0.30, SD = 1.30; Low dose M = -0.28, SD = 1.51, p = 0.015). A higher proportion of caregivers in both high and medium dose reported engagement with early learning practices compared to low dose. With respect to uptake, in Nepal, a higher number of families received home visits compared to group sessions, while in Uganda, more families reported attending group sessions than receiving home visits.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that higher intervention doses were associated with better child development outcomes in Nepal and only with medium dose in Uganda, emphasizing the importance of implementation factors like dosage, quality and delivery modality in community-based interventions for improving ECD outcomes in vulnerable populations.
Effect of households’ members disability and serious illness on public health insurance subscription among urban refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya
Authors: Oyekale Abayomi Samuel , Molelekoa Thonaeng Charity
Published: November 2024

Background

The adverse selection theory speculates a high level of demand for health insurance by people with vulnerable health conditions. However, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the prevailing narratives and pattern of healthcare utilization in many African countries. This study estimated the effects of household member’s disability and presence of serious illness on the probability of National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) subscription with the average treatment effect (ATE) and average treatment effect on the treated (ATET).

Methods

The data were collected telephonically in 2020 using the sampling frame of the United Nations High Commission on Refugees (UNHCR). The respondents were refugees with active phone numbers who were registered by the UNHCR in Nairobi, Mombasa and Nakuru cities. A total of 2,438 completed the surveys. The data were analysed with Treatment Effects Probit regression model using the regression adjustment estimator.

Results

The results showed that 24.89% of the respondents had health insurance. Also, 3.28%, 1.39% and 2.46%, respectively suffered from physical, cognitive and sensory disability, while 8.28% had some form of serious illness. The Probit regression results showed that probability of being health insured significantly increased (p < 0.05) with membership of community-based organizations (CBO), asset index, possession of bank savings account, residence in Nairobi and household size, while residence in Nakuru reduced it. The ATE for physical and cognitive disabilities were significant (p < 0.05) with 0.1100 and 0.1816, respectively, while that for serious illness was 0.1046 (p < 0.01). The ATET for physical disability and serious illness were also significant (p < 0.05) with 0.1251 and 0.0996, respectively.

Conclusion

It was concluded that efforts to facilitate NHIF subscriptions among the refugees should be channelled among people with disability and serious illness. In addition, there is the need to promote refugees’ welfare through employment that can induce formal savings and promote less reliance on informal borrowing. The operational mechanisms and differences in healthcare service distribution between the three cities should be considered along some salient interventions for health insurance subscription that are channelled through some CBOs.
The development and effects of a social constructivist approach in an interprofessional discomfort care online education program
Authors: Choi Young-Rim , Lee Ye-NA , Kwon Dai Young , Kim Dayeong , Park Won Hee , Chang Sung Ok
Published: November 2024

Background

The importance of interprofessional education (IPE) programs is increasing due to the complexity and multidimensional aspects of discomfort in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). The social constructivist approach, which is helpful in IPE, has received considerable attention in education. This study aimed to develop and identify the effects of an interprofessional discomfort management online education program using a social constructivist approach.

Methods

Using the Network-Based Instructional System Design model, five steps were employed for online educational program development: analysis, design, production, implementation, and evaluation. We modified the framework of interprofessional discomfort care and a C3 (case-based, collaborative, and contextual learning) instructional model to construct the program. The study used a non-equivalent control group pre-post-test design with 54 interprofessional participants from four LTCFs.

Results

The pre-post outcomes were statistically significant for proactivity in problem-solving (t = − 2.244, p = 0.030), team outcomes (t = − 2.457, p = 0.017), and transactive memory system (t = − 3.229, p = 0.002). The results of the learners’ educational program-related satisfaction were as follows: overall degree of satisfaction, 3.67 ± 0.67; difficulty, 3.56 ± 0.82; suitability for practice, 3.83 ± 0.64, content, 3.69 ± 0.75; and educational method, 3.46 ± 0.86.

Conclusions

These findings support the effectiveness of the social constructivist approach education program for the awareness of discomfort care in LTCF healthcare professionals and can contribute to the improvement of IPE.
I love my job. But it’s physically, mentally, and emotionally draining”: a cross-sectional survey exploring midwives’ intentions of leaving the profession in Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Matthews Robyn P , Newton Michelle S , Hyde Rebecca L , Shafiei Touran , Llewelyn Fleur , Forster Della A
Published: November 2024

Background

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic there were midwifery workforce deficits reported in Australia, but inadequate workforce data to identify retention and attrition in the profession. In the post-pandemic era, workforce deficits continue. This paper reports on midwives’ intentions to leave the profession and explores reasons for and factors associated with having high intention to leave, to inform strategies that can address retention and attrition of midwives.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey with midwives was conducted in 2017 via an online survey in two maternity care sites in Victoria, Australia. Plans for remaining in or leaving the profession were explored along with reasons for leaving or intending to leave the profession. Other data collected included demographic and workforce characteristics and occupational stressors. Burnout was measured using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory and job satisfaction using the Midwifery Process Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, univariate, multivariate analyses, and content analysis were used for data analysis.

Results

Of the 326 respondents (326/508, 64%), over half had considered leaving the midwifery profession in 12 months prior to the study, 20% had thought about leaving frequently and 12% were planning on leaving in the next five years. The main reasons for leaving were not wanting to do shift work, feeling worn out, and experiencing work-related stress. Factors associated with a high intention to leave the profession were work-related burnout, poor job satisfaction and a high intention to leave the workplace. Age did not impact intention to leave but was influential on the reasons for leaving.

Conclusions

Pre-pandemic, midwives in Victoria, Australia had a high intention to leave the profession regardless of age. Approaches that address midwifery stress, burnout, and fatigue need to be considered, including developing options that offer employment that does not require shift work. To provide safe quality care that supports positive outcomes for women and their families, an appropriate midwifery workforce must be achieved and maintained. Understanding midwives’ intentions to leave the profession is critical and requires ongoing attention given the workforce is likely to remain under significant stress until the major contributing factors are addressed.
Vital lessons from struggling partnerships and potential partnerships: an international study with leaders across the health sector
Authors: Zwisler Greg , Sauer Christopher Martin , Shoultz David
Published: November 2024

Background

Inter-organizational partnerships and collaborations, used here interchangeably, have growing prominence across the health sector. Successful partnerships have received extensive study. However, especially for partnerships including nonprofit partners, limited attention has been given to negative factors that contribute to struggling partnerships, including failed partnerships, and/or impede potential partnerships, including unexplored and undeveloped potential partnerships. This study aimed to explore these across diverse examples of struggling and potential partnerships considered otherwise worthwhile in principle, according to leaders and managers—in 13 countries across Asia-Pacific, EU+, North America—from diverse roles and settings across the health sector. It also aimed to explore success factors they said contributed to successful partnerships.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with 70 practitioners in 13 countries and a wide range of roles and nonprofit, industry, and government settings, including research institutions, across the health sector. Interviews covered their examples of struggling, potential, and successful partnerships; and, factors. Interview data were analyzed inductively, employing thematic network analysis. Comments underlying themes were reviewed regarding the participants concerned to note range (e.g., regions).

Results

Key findings included: (1) the many negative factors and success factors identified as themes; (2) their occurrence across diverse contexts, including different regions and institutional sectors (i.e., nonprofit, industry, government); (3) the complementarity of negative factors and success factors, with each set placing different emphasis on certain topics and negative factors both broadening the overall range of topics and contributing more to literature; (4) the occurrence of most negative factors with both struggling and potential partnerships. The 255 partnerships and potential partnerships discussed included nonprofit (190/255), industry (112/255), and/or government (140/255) partners. Many spanned two different institutional sectors (147/255); 86/255 spanned one; 20/255 spanned three.

Conclusions

The findings suggest three takeaways for practitioners: (1) factors used to consider partnerships should reflect factors from struggling partnerships and/or potential partnerships, plus successful partnerships; (2) negative factors can highlight opportunities to advance partnerships, individually and systematically; (3) practitioners should consider developing frameworks of factors from literature and experience to facilitate judicious consideration of partnerships and inform approaches, lessons drawn, and potential partnerships sought. Struggling and potential partnerships merit scholarly attention.
The epidemiology of low back pain in chiropractors and chiropractic students: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Ead Lauren , Wong Jessica , Hogg-Johnson Sheilah , Mior Silvano , Plener Joshua , Côté Pierre
Published: November 2024

Background

Chiropractors and chiropractic students commonly report low back pain (LBP). However, the burden of LBP in this occupational group has not been synthesized in the literature. This systematic review aims to describe the epidemiology of LBP in chiropractors and chiropractic students.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO from inception to May 1, 2023. Eligible studies were cross-sectional, cohort, or case–control studies investigating the prevalence, incidence, associated factors, or risk factors of LBP in chiropractors or chiropractic students. Reviewers independently screened articles and assessed risk of bias using the appropriate JBI Checklists for the observational study design. We descriptively synthesized studies that were rated as low or moderate risk of bias.

Results

Of 2012 citations screened, we included 2 cross-sectional studies in the evidence synthesis (1 study rated as moderate risk of bias on chiropractors, and 1 rated as low risk of bias on chiropractic students). For chiropractors, the 12-month prevalence of work-related overuse injuries to the low back was 35.6% (95% CI 29.1, 42.0) in women and 22.4% (95% CI 16.3, 29.6) in men. The 12-month prevalence of work-related acute physical injuries to the low back in chiropractors were 3.4% (95% CI 1.6, 6.8) for women and 0.7% (95% CI 0.1, 3.7) for men. Among chiropractic students, the 1-week prevalence of LBP was 69% (95% CI 64.8, 73.0). This was higher among female students (72.5%, 95% CI 67.1, 77.4) and lower among male students (64%, 95% CI 57.0, 70.6).

Conclusion

There is limited high-quality evidence on the epidemiology of LBP in chiropractors and chiropractic students. Our systematic review provides a synthesis of the body of literature, highlighting that chiropractors and chiropractic students commonly report LBP. Future high-quality research is needed to address the incidence, associated factors, and risk factors of LBP.
A systematic review of candidate genes and their relevant pathways for metastasis among adults diagnosed with breast cancer
Authors: Gehling Gina M. , Alfaqih Miad , Pruinelli Lisiane , Starkweather Angela , Dungan Jennifer R.
Published: November 2024

Background

Presently incurable, metastatic breast cancer is estimated to occur in as many as 30% of those diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. Timely and accurate identification of those at risk for developing metastasis using validated biomarkers has the potential to have profound impact on overall survival rates. Our primary goal was to conduct a systematic review and synthesize the existing body of scientific knowledge on the candidate genes and their respective single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with metastasis-related outcomes among patients diagnosed with breast cancer. This knowledge is critical to inform future hypothesis-driven and validation research aimed at enhancing clinical decision-making for breast cancer patients.

Methods

Using PRISMA guidelines, literature searches were conducted on September 13th, 2023, using PubMed and Embase databases. The systematic review protocol was registered with INPLASY (DOI: https://doi.org/10.37766/inplasy2024.8.0014). Covidence software was used to facilitate the screening and article extraction processes. Peer-reviewed articles were selected if authors reported on single nucleotide polymorphisms directly associated with metastasis among adults diagnosed with breast cancer.

Findings

We identified 451 articles after 44 duplicates were removed resulting in 407 articles to be screened for study inclusion. Three reviewers completed the article screening process which resulted in 86 articles meeting the study inclusion criteria. Sampling varied across studies with the majority utilizing a case-control design (n = 75, 87.2%), with sample sizes ranging from 23 to 1,017 participants having mean age 50.65 ± 4.50 (min-max: 20–75). The synthesis of this internationally generated evidence revealed that the scientific area on the underlying biological contributions to breast cancer metastasis remains predominantly exploratory in nature (n = 74, 86%). Of the 12 studies with reported power analyses, only 9 explicitly stated the power values which ranged from 47.88 to 99%.

Discussion

Understanding the underlying biological mechanisms contributing to metastasis is a critical component for precision oncological therapeutics and treatment approaches. Current evidence investigating the contribution of SNPs to the development of metastasis is characterized by underpowered candidate gene studies. To inform individualized precision health practices and improve breast cancer survival outcomes, future hypothesis-driven research is needed to replicate these associations in larger, more diverse datasets.
Integrated analyses of multi-omic data derived from paired primary lung cancer and brain metastasis reveal the metabolic vulnerability as a novel therapeutic target
Authors: Duan Hao , Ren Jianlan , Wei Shiyou , Yang Zhenyu , Li Chuan , Wang Zhenning , Li Meichen , Wei Zhi , Liu Yu , Wang Xiuqi , Lan Hongbin , Zeng Zhen , Xie Maodi , Xie Yuan , Wu Suwen , Hu Wanming , Guo Chengcheng , Zhang Xiangheng , Liang Lun , Yu Chengwei , Mou Yanhao , Jiang Yu , Li Houde , Sugarman Eric , Deek Rebecca A. , Chen Zexin , Li Tao , Chen Yaohui , Yao Maojin , Chen Likun , Liu Lunxu , Zhang Gao , Mou Yonggao
Published: November 2024

Background

Lung cancer brain metastases (LC-BrMs) are frequently associated with dismal mortality rates in patients with lung cancer; however, standard of care therapies for LC-BrMs are still limited in their efficacy. A deep understanding of molecular mechanisms and tumor microenvironment of LC-BrMs will provide us with new insights into developing novel therapeutics for treating patients with LC-BrMs.

Methods

Here, we performed integrated analyses of genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and single-cell RNA sequencing data which were derived from a total number of 154 patients with paired and unpaired primary lung cancer and LC-BrM, spanning four published and two newly generated patient cohorts on both bulk and single cell levels.

Results

We uncovered that LC-BrMs exhibited a significantly greater intra-tumor heterogeneity. We also observed that mutations in a subset of genes were almost always shared by both primary lung cancers and LC-BrM lesions, including TTN, TP53, MUC16, LRP1B, RYR2, and EGFR. In addition, the genome-wide landscape of somatic copy number alterations was similar between primary lung cancers and LC-BrM lesions. Nevertheless, several regions of focal amplification were significantly enriched in LC-BrMs, including 5p15.33 and 20q13.33. Intriguingly, integrated analyses of transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data revealed mitochondrial-specific metabolism was activated but tumor immune microenvironment was suppressed in LC-BrMs. Subsequently, we validated our results by conducting real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR experiments, immunohistochemistry, and multiplexed immunofluorescence staining of patients’ paired tumor specimens. Therapeutically, targeting oxidative phosphorylation with gamitrinib in patient-derived organoids of LC-BrMs induced apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation. The combination of gamitrinib plus anti-PD-1 immunotherapy significantly improved survival of mice bearing LC-BrMs. Patients with a higher expression of mitochondrial metabolism genes but a lower expression of immune genes in their LC-BrM lesions tended to have a worse survival outcome.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our findings not only provide comprehensive and integrated perspectives of molecular underpinnings of LC-BrMs but also contribute to the development of a potential, rationale-based combinatorial therapeutic strategy with the goal of translating it into clinical trials for patients with LC-BrMs.
Influences of sex and gender on the associations between risk and protective factors, brain, and behavior
Authors: Brosch Katharina , Dhamala Elvisha
Published: November 2024

Risk and protective factors for psychiatric illnesses are linked to distinct structural and functional changes in the brain. Further, the prevalence of these factors varies across sexes and genders, yet the distinct and joint effects of sex and gender in this context have not been extensively characterized. This suggests that risk and protective factors may map onto the brain and uniquely influence individuals across sexes and genders. Here, we review how specific risk (childhood maltreatment, the COVID-19 pandemic, experiences of racism), and protective factors (social support and psychological resilience) distinctly influence the brain across sexes and genders. We also discuss the role of sex and gender in the compounding effects of risk factors and in the interdependent influences of risk and protective factors. As such, we call on researchers to consider sex and gender when researching risk and protective factors for psychiatric illnesses, and we provide concrete recommendations on how to account for them in future research. Considering protective factors alongside risk factors in research and acknowledging sex and gender differences will enable us to establish sex- and gender-specific brain-behavior relationships. This will subsequently inform the development of targeted prevention and intervention strategies for psychiatric illnesses, which have been lacking. To achieve sex and gender equality in mental health, acknowledging and researching potential differences will lead to a better understanding of men and women, males and females, and the factors that make them more vulnerable or resilient to psychopathology.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor promotes bone regeneration in a canine model of peri-implantitis
Authors: Kono Shoko , Sasaki Shinya , Matsuda Shinji , Takeda Katsuhiro , Iwata Tomoyuki , Ouhara Kazuhisa , Kajiya Mikihito , Kurihara Hidemi , Mizuno Noriyoshi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to determine whether the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA) complex could regenerate bone around implants lost due to peri-implantitis.

Methods

Dogs had their three premolars extracted, and three implants were placed on each side. After osseointegration, 3-0 silk threads were ligated around the healing abutment for 12 weeks. Implants were classified into four groups—no treatment (control group), non-surgical debridement (debridement group), non-surgical debridement with application of HMW-HA (HMW-HA group), and non-surgical debridement with application of BDNF/HMW-HA complex (BDNF/HMW-HA group). Probing pocket depth (PPD), attachment level (AL), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded before and 12 weeks after each treatment. Standardized intraoral radiographs were obtained, and histological analysis was conducted.

Results

The bone level on radiographs significantly improved (median −0.15 mm, IQR −0.31 to 0.10) only in the BDNF/HMW-HA group, while changes in PPD and AL were similar to those in other groups. The BOP positivity rate decreased in the debridement and BDNF/HMW-HA groups. Unlike images of the other groups, histological images of the BDNF/HMW-HA group showed no epithelial migration toward the tip of the implant. Inflammatory cell infiltration was reduced compared with that in the other groups. New bone was observed around the implants only in the BDNF/HMW-HA group.

Conclusions

The BDNF/HMW-HA complex appears to promote bone regeneration when combined with non-surgical debridement for peri-implantitis.
Association between maternal and child health care and neonatal death in Angola: a secondary analysis of Angola Demographic Health Survey 2015–16
Authors: Saito Akiko , Kondo Masahide
Published: November 2024

Background

Neonatal mortality has decreased in Angola; however, it remains high. Quality maternal and child health (MCH) care is key to improving neonatal survival. In Angola, however, the association between neonatal mortality and MCH care has not yet been investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the association between neonatal mortality and MCH services in Angola.

Methods

We used the Angola Demographic Health Survey 2015–16, which is the latest nationally representative dataset of Angola. The associations between early/late neonatal death and MCH care utilization were identified by a multivariable logistic regression analysis, adjusted by the sex of the child, type of residence, wealth index, caesarian section, size of the child at birth and delivery assisted by skilled birth attendant. The individual sample weight, sample strata for sampling errors/design, and cluster number were incorporated in a descriptive and logistic regression analysis to account for the unequal probability sampling in different strata.

Results

The early and late neonatal mortality rates were 22 and 2 per 1000 live births, respectively. We found that having none, one, two or three tetanus injections before the last pregnancy compared to five or more injections, and no postnatal health check for children before discharge were associated with the occurrence of late neonatal death. During the first 2 days after childbirth, no observation of breastfeeding, no counseling on breastfeeding, no counseling on newborn danger signs, no measurement of child body temperature, and no examination of the cord as well as not checking child health before discharge were associated with early neonatal death.

Conclusions

Doses of maternal tetanus vaccination and postnatal child health check before discharge were modifiable factors associated to late neonatal death. Further studies to improve MCH care coverage are needed.
Mi-maml: classifying few-shot advanced malware using multi-improved model-agnostic meta-learning
Authors: Ji Yulong , Zou Kunjin , Zou Bin
Published: November 2024

Malware classification has been successful in utilizing machine learning methods. However, it is limited by the reliance on a large number of high-quality labeled datasets and the issue of overfitting. These limitations hinder the accurate classification of advanced malware with only a few samples available. Meta-learning methods offer a solution by allowing models to quickly adapt to new tasks, even with a small number of samples. However, the effectiveness of meta-learning approaches in malware classification varies due to the diverse nature of malware types. Most meta-learning-based methodologies for malware classification either focus solely on data augmentation or utilize existing neural networks and learning rate schedules to adapt to the meta-learning model. These approaches do not consider the integration of both processes or tailor the neural network and learning rate schedules to the specific task. As a result, the classification performance and generalization capabilities are suboptimal. In this paper, we propose a multi-improved model-agnostic meta-learning (MI-MAML) model that aims to address the challenges encountered in few-shot malware classification. Specifically, we propose two data augmentation techniques to improve the classification performance of few-shot malware. These techniques involve utilizing grayscale images and the Lab color space. Additionally, we customize neural network architectures and learning rate schemes based on the representative few-shot classification method, MAML, to further enhance the model’s classification performance and generalization ability for the task of few-shot malware classification. The results obtained from multiple few-shot malware datasets demonstrate that MI-MAML outperforms other models in terms of categorical accuracy, precision, and f1-score. Furthermore, we have conducted ablation experiments to validate the effectiveness of each stage of our work.
Maternal Wealth Implications of Child Incarceration: Examining the Upstream Consequences of Children's Incarceration for Women's Assets, Homeownership, and Home Equity
Authors: Bryan Brielle , Farooqi Hira
Published: November 2024

Qualitative research has documented mothers’ critical role in supporting adult children during and after incarceration. Yet, the implications of incarceration for mothers have been relatively unexplored. Wealth research has also largely overlooked the influence of adult children on parental wealth. Using linked mother–child data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 (NLSY79) and the NLSY79 Child and Young Adult study, we investigate whether a child's incarceration influences mothers’ wealth and whether accounting for child incarceration history helps explain the racial wealth gap. We use an event-study analysis and fixed-effects models to assess the evidence that children's incarceration affects three forms of wealth: financial assets, homeownership, and home equity. We find significant relationships between child incarceration and maternal wealth, but the importance of current versus prior child incarceration depends on the type of wealth considered. We also find that child incarceration is much more detrimental in dollar terms for White women than for Black or Hispanic women, but the financial asset penalty associated with child incarceration is larger in percentage terms for Black women than for White women.
Odysseus and Adorno: A Note on Cunning and Dialectics
Authors: Allen William S.
Published: November 2024

The reading of the Odysseus excursus in Dialektik der Aufklärung has been hampered by the insistence that the character of Odysseus is merely a prototype of bourgeois instrumental reason. However, this characterization fails to grasp the full breadth of the dialectic of myth and enlightenment, and overlooks the significant role played by Odysseus’s cunning in the development of reason. In addressing these problems, it becomes apparent that cunning is a form of mimetic intelligence and bears its own form of dialectic, which has implications for the understanding of Adorno’s later works.
Outcome of Fourth Ventricular Hemorrhage in Ruptured Brain Aneurysms: Impact of Active Blood Clearance and Delayed Cerebral Ischemia Prevention
Authors: Overstijns Manou , Csók István , Watzlawick Ralf , Scheiwe Christian , Reinacher Peter , Beck Jürgen , El Rahal Amir , Roelz Roland
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Blood in the fourth ventricle is associated with poor outcomes in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). We investigated (1) the prognostic significance of the amount of blood in the fourth ventricle and (2) the influence of active blood clearance and delayed cerebral ischemia prevention (ABCD).

METHODS:

We reviewed 817 consecutive aSAH patients admitted between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2022, assessing blood amount in the fourth ventricle using a fourth ventricular hemorrhage scale (FVH): grade 1 (no or minimal blood), grade 2 (partially filled), grade 3 (completely filled/cast), and grade 4 (ballooning). Incidence of poor outcomes was evaluated using multivariate analysis before and after the introduction of ABCD (October 2015). Subsequently, a 1:1 matched-pairs analysis compared outcomes specifically between patients who underwent ABCD and matched controls receiving standard care. Neurological outcomes were evaluated at 6 months (independent modified Rankin scale).

RESULTS:

Before ABCD, poor outcomes occurred in 31/41 FVH grade 3 patients (76%; odds ratio (OR) 4.4) and in 38/41 FVH grade 4 patients (93%; OR 29.1). After ABCD, the incidence of poor outcomes decreased to 23/40 in FVH grade 3 patients (58%; P = .043; OR 1.3) and 31/41 in FVH grade 4 patients (76%; P = .017; OR: 3.6). The matched-pairs analysis also showed improvement in poor outcomes for FVH grade 4 patients who underwent ABCD compared with standard care (64% vs 89%, P = .024), but not for FVH grade 1 to 3 patients. No increase in the incidence of ventriculitis was seen in patients receiving ABCD treatment (P = .836).

CONCLUSION:

Ballooning fourth ventricular hemorrhage (grade 4 FVH) is a powerful predictor of poor outcomes after aSAH. With the introduction of ABCD, the prognosis of these patients improved considerably and 25% reached functional independence 6 months after aSAH.
Evaluation of 2 Surgical Techniques—Transposition Versus Interposition Microvascular Decompression for Hemifacial Spasm: A Systematic Review of 19 437 Patients
Authors: Tugend Margaret , Joncas Colby T. , Lee Veronica , Simmons Grace B. , Sekula Raymond F.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Hemifacial spasm (HFS) is a rare movement disorder characterized by brisk, irregular, involuntary, and unilateral contraction of the facial musculature. This systematic review aims to synthesize the existing literature and compare the use of 2 microvascular decompression (MVD) techniques—transposition and interposition—used in the treatment of HFS.

METHODS:

A retrospective systematic review of randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, case-control studies, and case series examining transposition and/or interposition during MVD for HFS was performed using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. Data extracted included study objective and size, surgical method, demographic information, operative technique notes, number and location of offending vessels, complications, follow-up duration, rate of spasm freedom at last follow-up, and additional outcomes. Cohorts of at least 20 patients with HFS treated with MVD reported in studies explicitly mentioning surgical techniques were included.

RESULTS:

PubMed, Embase, and Scopus database searches yielded 1300 records, of which 528 were duplicates. Sixty-two studies reporting 68 cohorts met inclusion criteria, including 5 on transposition, 51 on interposition, and 6 using both techniques. Interposition was used in 18 627 cases, and transposition was used in 810 cases. Spasm freedom at final follow-up was similar between transposition and interposition (90.4% vs 89.6%). Complication rates were similar between techniques, with the largest difference being higher rates of temporary facial nerve weakness/palsy among the transposition series (9.52%) than the interposition series (6.03%).

CONCLUSION:

Both transposition and interposition are safe and effective techniques for MVD in patients with HFS. Available literature to date does not provide conclusive evidence that 1 method is superior to the other in safety or efficacy although there are specific instances that favor the use of interposition. A prospective trial would be required to delineate the true differences between these techniques.