bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sample representativeness and influence of attrition on longitudinal data collected as part of a national medical career tracking project
Authors: Connell Charlotte J. W. , Salkeld Alexander J , Wells Cameron , Verstappen Antonia C. , Poole Phillippa , Wilkinson Tim J , Bagg Warwick
Published: July 2023

Background

The Medical Schools Outcomes Database and Longitudinal Tracking Project (MSOD) in New Zealand is one example of a national survey-based resource of medical student experiences and career outcomes. Longitudinal studies of medical students are valuable for evaluating the outcomes of medical programs against workforce objectives. As a prospective longitudinal multiple-cohort study, survey response rates at each collection point of MSOD vary. This paper assesses the effects of participant non-response rates on MSOD data.

Methods

Demographic variables of MSOD respondents between 2012 and 2018 were compared to the distribution of the demographic variables in the population of all NZ medical graduates to ascertain whether respondent samples at multiple survey collection points were representative of the population. Analysis using logistic regression assessed the impact of participant non-response on variables at collection points throughout MSOD.

Results

2874 out of a total population of 2939 domestic medical students graduating between 2012 and 2018 responded to MSOD surveys. Entry and exit surveys achieved response rates around 80% and were broadly representative of the total population on demographic variables. Post-graduation survey response rates were around 50% of the total population of graduates and underrepresented graduates from the University of Auckland. Between the entry and exit and the exit and postgraduation year three samples, there was a significant impact of non-response on ascribed variables, including age at graduation, university, gender and ethnic identity. Between the exit and postgraduation year one sample, non-response significantly impacted ascribed and non-ascribed variables, including future practice intentions.

Conclusion

Samples collected from MSOD at entry and exit are representative, and findings from cross-sectional studies using these datasets are likely generalisable to the wider population of NZ medical graduates. Samples collected one and three years post-graduation are less representative. Researchers should be aware of this bias when utilizing these data. When using MSOD data in a longitudinal manner, e.g. comparing the change in career intentions from one collection point to the next, researchers should appropriately control for bias due to non-response between collection points. This study highlights the value of longitudinal career-tracking studies for answering questions relevant to medical education and workforce development.
Assessment of bidirectional relationships between brain imaging-derived phenotypes and stroke: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yu Ke , Chen Xiao-Feng , Guo Jing , Wang Sen , Huang Xiao-Ting , Guo Yan , Dong Shan-Shan , Yang Tie-Lin
Published: July 2023

Background

Stroke is a major cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide. Whether the associations between brain imaging-derived phenotypes (IDPs) and stroke are causal is uncertain.

Methods

We performed two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to explore the causal associations between IDPs and stroke. Summary data of 587 brain IDPs (up to 33,224 individuals) from the UK Biobank and five stroke types (sample size range from 301,663 to 446,696, case number range from 5,386 to 40,585) from the MEGASTROKE consortium were used.

Results

Forward MR indicated 14 IDPs belong to projection fibers or association fibers were associated with stroke. For example, higher genetically determined mean diffusivity (MD) in the right external capsule was causally associated with an increased risk of small vessel stroke (IVW OR = 2.76, 95% CI 2.07 to 3.68, P = 5.87 × 10−12). Reverse MR indicated that genetically determined higher risk of any ischemic stroke was associated with increased isotropic or free water volume fraction (ISOVF) in body of corpus callosum (IVW β = 0.23, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.33, P = 3.22 × 10−7). This IDP is a commissural fiber and it is not included in the IDPs identified by forward MR.

Conclusions

We identified 14 IDPs with statistically significant evidence of causal effects on stroke or stroke subtypes. We also identified potential causal effects of stroke on one IDP of commissural fiber. These findings might guide further work toward identifying preventative strategies at the brain imaging levels.
A female of progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 3 caused by heterozygous mutations of ABCB4 gene and her cirrhosis improved after treatment of ursodeoxycholic acid: a case report
Authors: Qiao Fei , Ren Feng , Lu Weiting , Yang Haoran , Mo Guiling , Wang Shuangshuang , Liu Lina , Xu Xiangtao
Published: July 2023

Background

Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) is a group of rapidly progressive autosomal recessive disorders characterized by intrahepatic cholestasis. PFIC-3 is caused by mutations in the ATP-binding cassette subfamily B member 4 gene (ABCB4), which encodes multidrug resistance protein 3 (MDR3/ABCB4). Patients are usually in infancy or childhood, but cirrhosis and portal hypertension may be the first manifestation in older children or young adults.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old young woman with recurrent abnormal hepatic function was mainly characterized by increased gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and bile acid with cryptogenic cirrhosis. After 7 months of treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), her hepatic pathology suggested there were also obvious widening and venous fibrosis around the portal vein, and slight bile duct hyperplasia at the edge of the portal area. Infiltration of inflammatory cells around the portal vein and hepatocyte ABCB4/MDR3 protein was basically normal. Sequencing indicated the patient had heterozygous mutations in the ABCB4 gene: c.2696C > G and wes [hg19]7q21.12(87032513–87033422) × 1. Through SWISS-MODEL Predict for protein structures, the missense mutation results in protein side chain missing a methyl group (-CH3), and the deletion mutation results in the serious damage to the structure of MDR3 protein which lead to phosphatidylcholine deficiency of bile in the capillary bile ducts. The toxic effect of bile salts then damages the bile ducts, causing cholestasis and cholangitis, which can then develop into biliary cirrhosis. Through the analysis of pathogenicity prediction software, the mutations led to PFIC3. After treatment of UDCA for 29 months, her cirrhosis was improved, hepatic function was close to normal.

Conclusion

Novel heterozygous mutations are the molecular pathological cause of PFIC3 in this patient. All young adult patients with occult cirrhosis should be tested for ABCB4. Early diagnosis of PFIC3 and continued treatment with UDCA are key to improving prognosis and delaying the onset of end-stage liver disease.
Perioperative opioid-minimization approach as a useful protocol in the management of patients with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome-hypermobility type, craniocervical instability and severe chronic pain who are to undergo occipito-cervical fixation
Authors: Ramírez-Paesano Carlos , Rodiera Clarens Claudia , Sharp Segovia Allan , Coila Bustinza Alan , Rodiera Olive Josep , Juanola Galceran Albert
Published: July 2023

Patients suffering from connective tissue disorders like Ehlers–Danlos syndrome hypermobility type/joint hypermobility syndrome (EDS-HT/JHS) may be affected by craniocervical instability (CCI). These patients experience myalgic encephalomyelitis, chronic fatigue, depression, extreme occipital-cervical pain, and severe widespread pain that is difficult to relieve with opioids. This complex and painful condition can be explained by the development of chronic neuroinflammation, opioid-induced hyperalgesia, and central sensitization. Given the challenges in treating such severe physical pain, we evaluated all the analgesic methods previously used in the perioperative setting, and updated information was presented. It covers important physiopathological aspects for the perioperative care of patients with EDS-HT/JHS and CCI undergoing occipital-cervical/thoracic fixation/fusion. Moreover, a change of paradigm from the current opioid-based management of anesthesia/analgesia in these patients to the perioperative opioid minimization strategies used by the authors was analyzed and proposed as follow-up considerations from our previous case series. These strategies are based on total-intravenous opioid-free anesthesia, multimodal analgesia, and a postoperative combination of anti-hyperalgesic coadjuvants (lidocaine, ketamine, and dexmedetomidine) with an opioid-sparing effect.
The UK BiLEVE and Mendelian randomisation: using multivariable instrumental variables to address “damned if you, damned if you don’t” adjustment problems
Authors: Woolf Benjamin , Gill Dipender , Sallis Hannah , Munafò Marcus R.
Published: July 2023

Objective

To explore the use of multivariable instrumental variables to resolve the “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” adjustment problem created for Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis using the smoking or lung function related phenotypes in the UK Biobank (UKB).

Result

“damned if you do, damned if you don’t” adjustment problems occur when both adjusting and not-adjusting for a variable will induce bias in an analysis. One instance of this occurs because the genotyping chip of UKB participants differed based on lung function/smoking status. In simulations, we show that multivariable instrumental variables analyses can attenuate potential collider bias introduced by adjusting for a proposed covariate, such as the UKB genotyping chip. We then explore the effect of adjusting for genotyping chip in a multivariable MR model exploring the effect of smoking on seven medical outcomes (lung cancer, emphysema, hypertension, stroke, heart diseases, depression, and disabilities). We additionally compare our results to a traditional univariate MR analysis using genome-wide analyses summary statistics which had and had not adjusted for genotyping chip. This analysis implies that the difference in genotyping chip has introduced only a small amount of bias.
Proteomic dataset of Candida albicans (ATCC 10231) Biofilm
Authors: Zore Gajanan , Abdulghani Mazen , Kazi Rubina , Shelar Amruta , Patil Rajendra
Published: July 2023

Objectives

The ability to form biofilm is considered as one of major virulence factors of Candida albicans, as biofilms form growth confers antifungal resistance and facilitate immune evasion. It is intriguing to understand morphophysiological modulations in the C. albicans cells growing under biofilm form growth.

Data description

In present study, we have profiled biofilm-specific proteins using LC-MS/MS analysis. Whole cell proteins of C. albicans cells grown under biofilm form growth (test) and planktonic (control) growth for 24 h were extracted, digested and identified using micro-Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The present data represents proteomic profile (SWATH Spectral Libraries) of C. albicans biofilm intended to be useful to scientific community as it exhibits reuse potential.
Bovine tuberculosis in Spain, is it really the final countdown?
Authors: Bezos Javier , Sáez-Llorente José Luis , Álvarez Julio , Romero Beatriz , Díez-Guerrier Alberto , Domínguez Lucas , de Juan Lucía
Published: July 2023

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a severe zoonotic disease that has major impacts on both health and the economy, and which has been subjected to specific eradication programmes in many countries for decades. This manuscript highlights the relevance of this disease in the context of the European Union (EU) and summarizes the epidemiological situation and the main tools (e.g. antemortem diagnostic tests, slaughterhouse surveillance, laboratories, comprehensive databases, etc.) used to control and eradicate bTB in the various EU countries with a focus on the situation in Spain. A comprehensive description of the specific bTB epidemiological situation in Spain is provided, together with an assessment of the evolution of different epidemiological indicators throughout the last decades. Moreover, the main features of the Spanish bTB eradication programme and its control tools are described, along with the studies carried out in Spain that have allowed the updating of and improvement to the programme over the years with the aim of eradication, which has been established for 2030.
Microbe-driven elemental cycling enables microbial adaptation to deep-sea ferromanganese nodule sediment fields
Authors: Zhang Dechao , Li Xudong , Wu Yuehong , Xu Xuewei , Liu Yanxia , Shi Benze , Peng Yujie , Dai Dadong , Sha Zhongli , Zheng Jinshui
Published: July 2023

Background

Ferromanganese nodule-bearing deep-sea sediments cover vast areas of the ocean floor, representing a distinctive habitat in the abyss. These sediments harbor unique conditions characterized by high iron concentration and low degradable nutrient levels, which pose challenges to the survival and growth of most microorganisms. While the microbial diversity in ferromanganese nodule-associated sediments has been surveyed several times, little is known about the functional capacities of the communities adapted to these unique habitats.

Results

Seven sediment samples collected adjacent to ferromanganese nodules from the Clarion–Clipperton Fracture Zone (CCFZ) in the eastern Pacific Ocean were subjected to metagenomic analysis. As a result, 179 high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) were reconstructed and assigned to 21 bacterial phyla and 1 archaeal phylum, with 88.8% of the MAGs remaining unclassified at the species level. The main mechanisms of resistance to heavy metals for microorganisms in sediments included oxidation (Mn), reduction (Cr and Hg), efflux (Pb), synergy of reduction and efflux (As), and synergy of oxidation and efflux (Cu). Iron, which had the highest content among all metallic elements, may occur mainly as Fe(III) that potentially functioned as an electron acceptor. We found that microorganisms with a diverse array of CAZymes did not exhibit higher community abundance. Instead, microorganisms mainly obtained energy from oxidation of metal (e.g., Mn(II)) and sulfur compounds using oxygen or nitrate as an electron acceptor. Chemolithoautotrophic organisms (Thaumarchaeota and Nitrospirota phyla) were found to be potential manganese oxidizers. The functional profile analysis of the dominant microorganisms further indicated that utilization of inorganic nutrients by redox reactions (rather than organic nutrient metabolism) is a major adaptive strategy used by microorganisms to support their survival in the ferromanganese nodule sediments.

Conclusions

This study provides a comprehensive metagenomic analysis of microbes inhabiting metal-rich ferromanganese nodule sediments. Our results reveal extensive redundancy across taxa for pathways of metal resistance and transformation, the highly diverse mechanisms used by microbes to obtain nutrition, and their participation in various element cycles in these unique environments.
Storytelling for impact: the creation of a storytelling program for patient partners in research
Authors: Getchell Leah E. , Reich Marian , Allu Selina , Woods Cathy , Atkinson Teresa , Beaucage Mary , Stalker Leanne , Sparkes Dwight , Turner Catherine , L’Esperance Audrey , Burns Kevin , Elliott Meghan J. , Chiu Helen , Rosenblum Norman D. , Sapir-Pichhadze Ruth
Published: July 2023

Storytelling is a powerful means to evoke empathy and understanding among people. When patient partners, which include patients, family members, caregivers and organ donors, share their stories with health professionals, this can prompt listeners to reflect on their practice and consider new ways of driving change in the healthcare system. However, a growing number of patient partners are asked to ‘share their story’ within health care and research settings without adequate support to do so. This may ultimately widen, rather than close, the gap between healthcare practitioners and people affected by chronic disease in this new era of patient and public involvement in research. To better support patient partners with storytelling in the context of a patient-oriented research network, Canadians Seeking Solutions and Innovations to Overcome Chronic Kidney Disease (Can-SOLVE CKD) Network adapted an existing in-person storytelling workshop for patient educators within a hospital setting. The result is a 6-week virtual program called Storytelling for Impact, which guides patients, family members, caregivers and organ donors in developing impactful stories and sharing them at health care and research events, e.g., conferences. The online series of synchronous workshops is co-facilitated by story coaches, who are program alumni and Can-SOLVE CKD staff with trained storytelling experience. Each story follows a structure that includes a call to action, which aims to positively impact the priority-setting and delivery of care and research in Canada. The program has been a transformational process for many who have completed it, and numerous other health organizations have expressed interest in sharing this tool with their own patient partners. As result, we have also created an asynchronous online program that can be used by other interested parties outside our network. Patient partners who share their stories can be powerful mediators for inspiring changes in the health care and research landscape, with adequate structured support. We describe two novel programs to support patient partners in impactful storytelling, which are applicable across all health research disciplines. Additional resources are required for sustainability and scale up of training, by having alumni train future storytellers.
The role of mitochondrial genes on nuclear gene expression in neovascular age related macular degeneration: analysis of nuclear VEGF gene expression after ranibizumab treatment in cytoplasmic hybrid retinal pigment epithelial cell lines correlated with clinical evolution
Authors: Costa Rodrigo Donato , Thomaz Neto Farid José , Moustafa M. Tarek , Atilano Shari R. , Chwa Marilyn , Cáceres-del-Carpi Javier , Mohamed Mohamed Hamid , Kenney M. Cristina , Kuppermann Baruch D.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The present study tests the hypothesis that mitochondrial genes have retrograde signaling capacity that influences the expression of nuclear genes related to angiogenesis pathways. Cytoplasmic hybrid (cybrid) in vitro cell lines with patient specific mitochondria inserted into an immortalized retinal pigment epithelial cell line (ARPE-19) were used to test this hypothesis. This type of analysis can provide important information to identify the optimal regimen of anti-VEGF treatment, personalizing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) therapies.

Methods

Mitochondria deficient ARPE-19 cells (Rho0) were fused with AMD donor’s platelets to create individual cybrid cell lines containing mitochondria from patients with phenotypic AMD disease and nuclear DNA from the immortalized RPE cell line. The cybrids were treated with Ranibizumab (Lucentis, Genentech, San Francisco, CA), at 4 different concentrations for 24 h, and subsequently the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), gene expression for VEGF-A, hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1-a) and manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2) were measured. The clinical evolution of the two AMD-donors were correlated with the molecular findings found in their ‘personalized’ cybrids.

Results

Cybrids from Patient-01 showed down-regulation of gene expression of VEGF-A and HIF-1a at both 1X and 4X Ranibizumab concentrations. Patient-01 AMD cybrid cultures had an increase in the ROS levels at 1X (P = 0.0317), no changes at 2X (P = 0.8350) and a decrease at 4X (P = 0.0015) and 10X (P = 0.0011) of Ranibizumab. Clinically, Patient-01 responded to anti-VEGF therapy but eventually developed geographic atrophy. Patient-02 cybrids demonstrated up-regulation of gene expression of VEGF-A and HIF-1a at Ranibizumab 1X and 4X concentrations. There was decreased ROS levels with Ranibizumab 1X (P = 0.1606), 2X (P = 0.0388), 4X (P = 0.0010) and 10X (P =  < 0.0001). Clinically, Patient-02 presented with a neovascular lesion associated with a prominent production of intraretinal fluid in clinical follow-up requiring regular and repeated intravitreal injections of Ranibizumab with recurrent subretinal fluid.

Conclusions

Our cybrid model has the potential to help personalize the treatment regimen with anti-VEGF drugs in patients with neovascular AMD. Further investigation is needed to better understand the role that the mitochondria play in the cellular response to anti-VEGF drugs. Future studies that focus on this model have the potential to help personalize anti-VEGF treatment.
Cognitive perspectives on maintaining physicians’ medical expertise: II. Acquiring, maintaining, and updating cognitive skills
Authors: Caddick Zachary A. , Fraundorf Scott H. , Rottman Benjamin M. , Nokes-Malach Timothy J.
Published: July 2023

Over the course of training, physicians develop significant knowledge and expertise. We review dual-process theory, the dominant theory in explaining medical decision making: physicians use both heuristics from accumulated experience (System 1) and logical deduction (System 2). We then discuss how the accumulation of System 1 clinical experience can have both positive effects (e.g., quick and accurate pattern recognition) and negative ones (e.g., gaps and biases in knowledge from physicians’ idiosyncratic clinical experience). These idiosyncrasies, biases, and knowledge gaps indicate a need for individuals to engage in appropriate training and study to keep these cognitive skills current lest they decline over time. Indeed, we review converging evidence that physicians further out from training tend to perform worse on tests of medical knowledge and provide poorer patient care. This may reflect a variety of factors, such as specialization of a physician’s practice, but is likely to stem at least in part from cognitive factors. Acquired knowledge or skills gained may not always be readily accessible to physicians for a number of reasons, including an absence of study, cognitive changes with age, and the presence of other similar knowledge or skills that compete in what is brought to mind. Lastly, we discuss the cognitive challenges of keeping up with standards of care that continuously evolve over time.
Addressing neglected tropical diseases in Africa: a health equity perspective
Authors: George Nsikakabasi Samuel , David Success Chekwube , Nabiryo Maxencia , Sunday Blessing Abai , Olanrewaju Omotayo Faith , Yangaza Yonah , Shomuyiwa Deborah Oluwaseun
Published: July 2023

Africa accounts for over one-third of the global burden of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Although continental efforts have been made to combat these diseases, there still exists a significant gap in the fight, ranging from a lack of data to multisectoral participation and, most critically, health inequity. Here, we assess the effort made to combat challenges caused by health disparities to prevent and control neglected tropical diseases. This article engages a health equity view to addressing the need for inclusion in achieving universal health coverage towards eradicating NTDs and outlines strategies to achieve such. Health disparities exist, and there is substantial and irrefutable evidence for them. Inequitable distribution and limited access to basic and essential life resources such as water, housing, toilets, soap, and literacy continue to facilitate the existence of NTDs such as Schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminths, and trachoma, the occurrence of which can be avoided if affected populations have better access to those resources. To eradicate NTDs, health disparities must be addressed to provide excellent health care to all populations and adequate universal health coverage for long-term sustainability. NTD programmes need to be data-driven to ensure better decision-making and ensure the inclusion of diverse population groups including women, children, and youths. This will ensure that no one is left behind, drawing upon the sustainable development goals. Community participation and engagement should also be considered as an essential approach to ensure people are at the centre of health programmes and their implementation.
Transient synchronous stability analysis and enhancement control strategy of a PLL-based VSC system during asymmetric grid faults
Authors: Luo Yi , Yao Jun , Chen Zhaoyang , Huang Sen , Chen Shiyue , Zhang Qi , Qin Zhentao
Published: July 2023

The stability of a voltage source converters (VSC) system based on phase-locked loop (PLL) is very important issue during asymmetric grid faults. This paper establishes a transient synchronous stability model of a dual-sequence PLL-based VSC system during low voltage ride-through by referring to the equivalent rotor swing equation of synchronous generators. Based on the model, the synchronization characteristics of the VSC system under asymmetric grid faults are described, and the interaction mechanisms, as well as the transient instability phenomena of positive and negative sequence PLL during asymmetric faults are explained. Using the equal area criterion, the influences of sequence control switching action, detection delay, and interaction between the positive and negative sequence PLL on the transient synchronous stability of the VSC system are analyzed, respectively. In addition, a transient stability assessment criterion based on the critical fault clearance angle and time and an enhancement control strategy based on the improved positive and negative sequence PLL are proposed. Finally, the analytical results are validated through simulation and experiments.
Bupivacaine improves surgical field and postoperative pain control in endoscopic sinus surgery: a clinical trial
Authors: Janakan S. R. , Thakur Jagdeep S. , Azad Ramesh K. , Dadwal Madhuri , Chauhan Gian , Thakur Anamika
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Endoscopic sinus surgery is often challenging because of bleeding and pain. A variety of techniques have been explored to reduce surgical function and pain, with the sphenopalatine ganglion block showing the most promising results. All of these researches, however, had methodological flaws since saline was used as a placebo injection, which could have irritated the ganglion and produced less-than-ideal results, in accordance with our theory.

Aim and objective

To determine the effect of sphenopalatine ganglion block with bupivacaine on intraoperative endoscopic surgical field and postoperative pain.

Patients and methods

A prospective double blind, randomized study was conducted in 50 subjects undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis with or without polyp. The case group received 1.5 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine in sphenopalatine ganglion block while control group didn’t receive any drug in ganglion. The intra-operative surgical field grade and postoperative pain score was recorded to analyze the effect of the block.

Results

We discovered a statistically significant difference in the endoscopic surgical field between the case and control groups. In comparison to the control group, the surgical field was more visible in the sphenopalatine ganglion block group. The case group significantly outperformed the control group in terms of pain visual analogue score throughout the observation period, with the exception of the first day following surgery.

Conclusion

Sphenopalatine ganglion block with bupivacaine 0.5% is a straightforward, efficient, and secure way to improve the endoscopic surgical field and lessen postoperative pain in patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery.
Effects of semaglutide on body weight in clozapine-treated people with schizophrenia and obesity: study protocol for a placebo-controlled, randomised multicentre trial (COaST)
Authors: Siskind Dan , Baker Andrea , Russell Anthony , Warren Nicola , Robinson Gail , Parker Stephen , Medland Sarah , Kisely Steve , Hager Tineka , Arnautovska Urska
Published: July 2023

Background

People with schizophrenia die almost 20 years earlier than the general population, most commonly from avertable cardiometabolic disease. Existing pharmacological weight-loss agents including metformin have limited efficacy. Recently available glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists such as semaglutide have shown promise for weight loss but have yet to be trialled in this population.

Aims

To examine the efficacy of semaglutide to ameliorate antipsychotic-induced obesity in people with schizophrenia who have been treated with clozapine for more than 18 weeks.

Method

This is a 36-week, double-blinded, randomised placebo-controlled trial. We will recruit 80 clozapine-treated patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, aged 18–64 years, with a baseline body mass index ≥26 kg/m2, who will be randomised to subcutaneous semaglutide of 2.0 mg once a week or placebo for 36 weeks. The primary endpoint will be percentage change in body weight from baseline.

Results

This trial will assess the efficacy and side-effects of the GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide on body weight and provide evidence on the possible clinical utility of semaglutide in patients with inadequate response to metformin. The study is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (www.anzctr.org.au) with clinical trial registration number ACTRN12621001539820.

Conclusion

This research could benefit individuals with schizophrenia who experience significant health issues, leading to premature mortality, owing to antipsychotic-induced weight gain. Study findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
Liver Fat, Bone Marrow Adipose Tissue, and Bone Mineral Density in Children With Overweight
Authors: Labayen Idoia , Cadenas-Sánchez Cristina , Idoate Fernando , Medrano María , Tobalina Ignacio , Villanueva Arantxa , Rodríguez-Vigil Beatriz , Álvarez de Eulate Natalia , Osés Maddi , Cabeza Rafael
Published: July 2023

Context

Hepatic steatosis is associated with decreased bone mineral density (BMD). Bone marrow fat fraction (BMFF) could play a role in this relationship in children with obesity.

Objective

The objectives of this work were (i) to examine the relationship between the lumbar spine (LS) BMFF and BMD, and (ii) to explore the mediating role of LS-BMFF on the relationship between percentage hepatic fat with LS-BMD in preadolescent children with overweight/obesity.

Methods

Hepatic fat and LS-BMFF (magnetic resonance imaging) and areal LS-BMD (LS-aBMD, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) were measured in 106 children (aged 10.6 ± 1.1 years, 53.8% girls) with overweight/obesity.

Results

LS-BMFF was inversely associated with LS-aBMD (r = −0.313; P = .001) and directly related with percentage hepatic fat (r = 0.276; P = .005). LS-BMFF was significantly greater in children with than without hepatic steatosis (P = .003; Cohen's d: 0.61; 95% CI, −0.21 to 1.0), while no significant difference was seen between children with overweight and those with obesity (P = .604; Cohen's d: 0.16; 95% CI, −0.21-0.55). Mediating analysis indicated that LS-BMFF is an important mediator (50%) in the association of hepatic fat with lower LS-aBMD (indirect effect: β = −.076; 95% CI, −0.143 to −0.015).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that hepatic steatosis, rather than overall excess adiposity, is associated with greater bone marrow adipose tissue in preadolescent children with overweight/obesity, which in turn, is related to lower BMD. Hepatic steatosis could be a potential biomarker of osteoporosis risk, and a therapeutic target for interventions that aim to reduce not only hepatic steatosis, but for those designed to improve bone health in such children.
Exposure to Armed Conflict and HIV Risk Among Rwandan Women
Authors: Schmeer Kammi K. , Echave Paola Andrea , Nzitatira Hollie Nyseth
Published: July 2023

This article focuses on the link between past exposure to violence and a critical public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa: HIV-positive status in women of reproductive age. Specifically, we use biosocial data from the Rwandan Demographic and Health Survey (2005‒2014) to assess how the timing and intensity of women's exposure to the war and genocide in Rwanda (1990‒1994) may be associated with their HIV status. We find significant differences in risk across age cohorts, with the late adolescence cohort (women born in 1970‒1974, who were aged 16‒20 at the start of the conflict) having the highest risk of being HIV positive 10‒20 years after the violence, even after controlling for current socioeconomic and demographic characteristics. Women who reported two or more sibling deaths, excluding those related to maternal mortality, during the conflict years also had higher odds of being HIV positive, net of cohort and control variables. Age at first sexual intercourse and number of lifetime sexual partners partially—but not fully—explain the associations between cohort and sibling deaths and HIV. These findings advance research related to armed conflict and population health and indicate that experiencing conflict during key stages of the life course and at higher intensity may affect women's long-term sexual health.
Comparative biology of sleep in diverse animals
Authors: Lakhiani Rhea , Shanavas Sahana , Melnattur Krishna
Published: July 2023

Sleep is a familiar, periodic occurrence in our lives. Despite its place in everyday experience, the existence of this suspended state of consciousness has intrigued and puzzled philosophers and scientists for decades. For much of its history, sleep science has focused on humans and mammals. In contrast, in the last 20 years or so, it has become increasingly clear that sleep is essentially universal. Sleep states have been observed in animals from mammals to cnidaria. Here, we review recent progress in sleep science through the lens of comparative physiology. We highlight broad insights into sleep phenomenology, physiology and function that have come from this comparative approach. These include the plasticity of sleep in response to environmental challenges and ecological niches, the discovery of distinct sleep stages in diverse taxa and conserved functions of sleep. Indeed, we argue, a comparative approach is essential to any comprehensive account of sleep.
In vivo structure probing of RNA inArchaea: novel insights into the ribosome structure ofMethanosarcina acetivorans
Authors: Williams Allison M. , Jolley Elizabeth A. , Santiago-Martínez Michel Geovanni , Chan Cheong Xin , Gutell Robin R. , Ferry James G. , Bevilacqua Philip C.
Published: July 2023

Structure probing combined with next-generation sequencing (NGS) has provided novel insights into RNA structure–function relationships. To date, such studies have focused largely on bacteria and eukaryotes, with little attention given to the third domain of life, archaea. Furthermore, functional RNAs have not been extensively studied in archaea, leaving open questions about RNA structure and function within this domain of life. With archaeal species being diverse and having many similarities to both bacteria and eukaryotes, the archaea domain has the potential to be an evolutionary bridge. In this study, we introduce a method for probing RNA structure in vivo in the archaea domain of life. We investigated the structure of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) fromMethanosarcina acetivorans, a well-studied anaerobic archaeal species, grown with either methanol or acetate. After probing the RNA in vivo with dimethyl sulfate (DMS), Structure-seq2 libraries were generated, sequenced, and analyzed. We mapped the reactivity of DMS onto the secondary structure of the ribosome, which we determined independently with comparative analysis, and confirmed the accuracy of DMS probing inM. acetivorans. Accessibility of the rRNA to DMS in the two carbon sources was found to be quite similar, although some differences were found. Overall, this study establishes the Structure-seq2 pipeline in the archaea domain of life and informs about ribosomal structure withinM. acetivorans.
Μελέτη της επίδρασης τριών ενδοουρολογικών επεμβάσεων νεφρολιθοτριψίας στην πρόκληση οξείας νεφρικής δυσλειτουργίας
Authors: Μέμμος Δημήτριος
Published: July 2023

Εισαγωγήː Δεν υπάρχουν μελέτες παρατήρησης σχετικά με τη συσχέτιση των ενδοουρολογικών επεμβάσεων με τη βλάβη του νεφρικού παρεγχύματος. Αυτή η τυχαιοποιημένη δοκιμή εξέτασε την επίδραση της τυπικής διαδερμικής νεφρολιθοτομής (sPCNL) σε σύγκριση με τη μικρογραφία PCNL (mini-PCNL) και την ανιούδσ ενδονεφρική χειρουργική (RIRS) για τη θεραπεία νεφρολιθίασης σε νέους βιοδείκτες νεφρικής βλάβης. Μέθοδοιː Εβδομήντα πέντε ασθενείς τυχαιοποιήθηκαν σε αναλογία 1:1:1 για να λάβουν sPCNL, mini-PCNL και RIRS για νεφρολιθίαση. Οι αναλογίες λιποκαλίνης σχετιζόμενης με ουδετερόφιλο-ζελατινάση (NGAL), μορίου νεφρικής βλάβης-1 (KIM-1) και ιντερλευκίνης-18 (IL-18) που κανονικοποιήθηκαν για την κρεατινίνη ούρων (Cr) υπολογίστηκαν από δείγματα ούρων που συλλέχθηκαν κατά την έναρξη ( 2 ώρες-προεγχειρητικά) και στις 2, 6, 24 και 48 ώρες μετεγχειρητικά. Χρησιμοποιήθηκε αμφίδρομη μικτή ANOVA για επαναλαμβανόμενες μετρήσεις για την αξιολόγηση των επιδράσεων του τύπου της διαδικασίας και του χρόνου στους βιοδείκτες που μελετήθηκαν. Αποτελέσματαː Μεταξύ της βασικής εκτίμησης και των 2 ωρών μετεγχειρητικά, δεν παρατηρήθηκαν σημαντικές διαφορές στις αλλαγές NGAL/Cr μεταξύ sPCNL [9,46 (4,82-14,9)], mini-PCNL [12,78 (1,69-25,24)] και RIRS [6.42 (2.61-23.90)] (p=0.902). Ομοίως, δεν παρατηρήθηκαν διαφορές μεταξύ των ομάδων του KIM-1/Cr (p=0,853) και του IL-18 (p=0,980) στις 2 ώρες, και όλων των βιοδεικτών σε οποιοδήποτε χρονικό σημείο μετεγχειρητικά. Εντός των ομάδων, σημειώθηκαν σημαντικές αυξήσεις από την αρχική τιμή για το NGAL/Cr (sPCNL p<0,001, mini-PCNL p<0,001, RIRS, p=0,001), KIM-1/Cr και IL-18/Cr στις 2 ώρες. Σταδιακά χαμηλότερες αυξήσεις από την έναρξη σημειώθηκαν σε όλες τις ομάδες για τα KIM-1/Cr και IL-18/Cr στις 6, 24 και 48 ώρες μετεγχειρητικά. Ως εκ τούτου, μια σημαντική επίδραση του χρόνου αλλά όχι του τύπου της επέμβασης αποδείχθηκε με αμφίδρομη μικτή ANOVA. Δεν παρατηρήθηκαν σημαντικές διαφορές μεταξύ των ομάδων στη συχνότητα εμφάνισης και τις επιπλοκές οξείας νεφρικής βλάβης. Συμπεράσματα: Οι ενδοουρολογικές επεμβάσεις που μελετώνται σχετίζονται με παρόμοια μοτίβα πρώιμης σωληναριακής βλάβης, που ανιχνεύονται από νέους βιοδείκτες, τα οποία μειώνονται σε μεγάλο βαθμό εντός 48 ωρών και δεν υπάρχουν αλλαγές στη σπειραματική λειτουργία.
The origins and limits of limits on constitutional change
Authors: Κατερίνης Ευάγγελος
Published: July 2023

Για να επικρατεί το κράτος δικαίου σε μια πολιτεία, απαιτείται οι άρχοντες και οι αρχόμενοι να υπακούν σε ορισμένους κανόνες δικαίου. Στη διάρκεια της ιστορίας, ένα παράδειγμα έχει αποτελέσει η υποχρέωση να διατηρείται το σύνταγμα αμετάβλητο, στο σύνολό του ή όσον αφορά τα θεμελιώδη στοιχεία του· στις μέρες μας, μόνο το δεύτερο μπορεί να ισχύει καθώς οι συνθήκες μεταβάλλονται ταχύτατα, σε αντίθεση με παλαιότερες εποχές, όπου ένας πολιτισμός ήταν δυνατόν να μείνει αναλλοίωτος για αιώνες. Ένας τέτοιος περιορισμός μπορεί να δικαιολογηθεί εφόσον αφορά την αναθεώρηση του συντάγματος από δημόσιους αξιωματούχους καθώς τους αποτρέπει από το να διευρύνουν σημαντικά τις αρμοδιότητές τους εις βάρος του λαού. Αντίθετα, ο λαός θεωρείται σχεδόν παντού ικανός ακόμα και να θεμελιώσει νέο σύνταγμα, επομένως ουσιαστικά όρια στην εξουσία των πολιτών ή εκτάκτων αντιπροσώπων τους να επιφέρουν συνταγματική μεταβολή θα μπορούσαν δύσκολα να γίνουν αποδεκτά: συμβατό με τη λαϊκή κυριαρχία θα μπορούσε να είναι το αμετάβλητο συνταγματικών διατάξεων που προστατεύουν αξίες που θεωρούνται απαράγραπτες σε σχεδόν όλα, αν όχι όλα, τα κράτη. Επιπλέον, ένας κυρίαρχος δικαιούται εξ ορισμού να πραγματώσει τη βούλησή του άμεσα, επομένως τυχόν χρονικοί περιορισμοί στην εξουσία του πρέπει να είναι ιδιαίτερα ήπιοι. Ωστόσο, άλλου είδους διαδικαστικά όρια είναι δυνατόν να τεθούν ακόμα και σε μια τέτοιου είδους εξουσία: αυξημένη πλειοψηφία μπορεί να απαιτείται ακόμα και αν το αντιπροσωπευτικό σώμα είναι συντακτική συνέλευση, ενώ σε κράτη όπου ο λαός αποτελεί σύνθετη οντότητα η συναίνεση υποεθνικών ενοτήτων μπορεί να απαιτείται ακόμα και αν η διαδικασία συνταγματικής μεταβολής είναι αμεσοδημοκρατική.
Ανατομική μελέτη της σφηνοειδούς οστεοτομίας της κερκίδας στην ψευδάρθρωση του σκαφοειδούς οστού σε ανθρώπινο πτωματικό υλικό
Authors: Γαλάνης Αθανάσιος
Published: July 2023

Στην παρούσα έρευνα μελετήθηκαν 38 ανθρώπινα πτώματα εκ των οποίων 12 ήταν γυναίκες και 26 ήταν άνδρες. Οι ιστοί τοποθετήθηκαν σε διάλυμα φορμόλης 10% και πραγματοποιούνταν χρώση των ιστών με την ουσία 5-φλουορεσκεΐνης, η οποία είναι ειδική για την μελέτη του συμπαθητικού συστήματος. Όλες οι παρατηρήσεις του ερευνητή τοποθετήθηκαν σε ηλεκτρονική τράπεζα πληροφοριών (DATA) για την ασφαλή εξαγωγή παρατηρήσεων και συμπερασμάτων.Στην παρούσα διατριβή βρέθηκε ότι υπάρχει στατιστικά σημαντική διαφορά στο ολικό μήκος της κερκίδας και στο σκαφοειδές οστό όσο αφορά την ψευδάρθρωση του σκαφοειδούς. Υπάρχει άμεση συσχέτιση της ψευδάρθρωσης του σκαφοειδούς οστού όσο αφορά την ηλικία και τον βαθμό οστεοπόρωσης όπως ερευνήθηκε με την ειδική συσκευή λέιζερ. Τα p values που βρέθηκαν σε αναλύσεις των σκαφοειδών είναι μακριά από το επίπεδο στατιστικής σημαντικότητας και αυτό σημαίνει ότι η στατιστική σημαντικότητα του ελέγχου είναι ισχυρή και δύσκολα μπορεί να ανατραπεί σε οποιαδήποτε επανάληψη της έρευνας.
The genome sequence of the tree of heaven, Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, 1916
Authors: Schley Rowan J. , Leitch Ilia J. , Christenhusz Maarten J. M. ,   Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Plant Genome Sizing collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual Ailanthus altissima (tree of heaven; Streptophyta; Magnoliopsida; Sapindales; Simaroubaceae). The genome sequence is 939 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial and plastid genome assemblies are 661.1 kilobases and 161.1 kilobases long, respectively.
Analysis of gender differences of the sternum in population of 240 adult patients – original article
Authors: Wokurka Wojciech , Węgrzyniak Agata , Drobek Dominik , Winiarz Aleksandra , Szlendak Paula , Toś Katarzyna , Wojtala Kacper , Turek Michał , Wąsala Katarzyna , Grosman Sylwia
Published: July 2023

Introduction and purpose: The sternum is one of the bones that build up the anterior chest wall. It consists of three parts: manubrium, body and xiphoid process. It has been observed that this bone exhibits sexual dimorphism, which can be used in many fields of science. The aim of the study was to find morphological parameters showing sexual dimorphism that allow unambiguous sex identification.

Material and method: 240 patients (140 women and 100 men) underwent chest CT and the following measurements were taken: angle of the sternum, length of the manubrium, body and xiphoid process, sum of the length of the manubrium and body, total length of the sternum. The thickness of all three parts of it and the width of the manubrium and body were also measured. Statistical analyses were performed using the Mann-Whitney "U" test. Values of p < 0. 05 were considered statistically significant.

Results: The results of all statistical analyses did not show statistical significance as a basis for the definitive determination of gender. However, some trends between the sexes have been observed, but these cannot be regarded as universal principles of gender identification.

Conclusions: There is a need for further researches on finding metric parameters of the sternum allowing gender identification, carried out on large population groups. To achieve this goal, the results of imaging tests, which are often used in diagnostics, including post-mortem examinations - Vitropsy, may be useful.
Gastrointestinal tract carcinoid with carcinoid syndrome in 63-year-old diver – a case report
Authors: Dominik Hanna , Pawęska Wojciech , Dominik Barbara
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Carcinoid is a tumor that originates from neuroendocrine cells.[1] It was primarily named and described in 1907 by Siegfried Oberndorfer to characterize neoplasms located in GIST with a relatively indolent course.[2] Term “carcinoid” is now used to describe. neuroendocrine neoplasms, a subset of rare tumors, mostly sporadic, which are typically located in gastrointestinal tract but they may also appear beyond it (e.g. in thymus or lungs).[2,3] NET’s are highly differentiated and usually hormonally active. Biochemical proof of their presence can consist of a measurement of the released substances – serotonin, bradykinin, histamine, etc. [3]Carcinoid tumors derive from serotonin-producing enterochromaffin cells.[1] They contain high quantities of tryptophane that is transformed later into serotonin. This biogenic amine is responsible for occurrence of so called- carcinoid syndrome. It manifests with hot flushes, diarrhea, tachycardia, vertigo and excessive sweating.[3] The attacks usually last from 0,5 minutes up to half an hour and they can be triggered by food or alcohol consumption, liver palpation or general anesthesia. Due to excessive serotonin production, long lasting carcinoid might lead to right endocardial fibrosis with tricuspid valve and pulmonary valve dysfunction. [4] Description of the case: The following case describes the clinical history, diagnostic process, imaging studies and treatment applied to 63-year-old male professional diver who was admitted to University Hospital of Zielona Góra with a clinical picture that resembled carcinoid syndrome. The final diagnosis- carcinoid originating from the ileum- was settled after performing multiple studies. The patient was referred to the department of Endocrinology and Neuroendocrine Tumors in Silesian University Center in Katowice. He initiated therapy with Somatuline Autogel. The Tumor Board was conducted in order to determine the optimal treatment for the patient.
Acne vulgaris and treatment with topical retinoids - adapalene and tretinoin
Authors: Antos Maria , Wawryszuk Angelika , Bator Piotr , Łyko Grzegorz , Rachwał Krystian , Bobrzyk Adrian , Makowska Weronika , Kamińska Weronika , Kosel Alicja , Rumian Maciej
Published: July 2023

Introduction and purpose:

Acne vulgaris is a disease that mainly affects young people and is associated with overactive sebaceous glands. The disease mainly affects the face but can also occur on the back. Depending on the clinical picture, we can distinguish different types of acne and make our treatment dependent on it.

The aim of the study will be to compare the effects of topical retinoids on acne vulgaris.

State of knowledge:

Topical retinoids have a direct anti-inflammatory effect and prevent the formation of blackheads and microcomedones. Five retinoids are currently available for topical treatment of acne vulgaris. We distinguish three generations. The mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is known that they react with the RAR and RXR receptors. In the review paper, we will compare the effects of adapalene with tretinoin.

Conclusion: According to the indicated study results, there is no significant difference in the effect of treatment with adapalene or tretinoin. Adapalene showed less irritation during treatment than tretinoin. The most important thing during acne treatment is choosing the right concentration and formulation by the dermatologist so that the patient does not stop treatment.