bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of cryoablation for localized renal tumor as an alternative approach to partial nephrectomy
Authors: Barjolle Irène , Ah-Thiane Loic , Frampas Eric , Karam Georges , Rigaud Jérôme , David Arthur
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Renal cryoablation displays a profile of high tolerance, including in a frail population. Cryoablation appears as a validated alternative treatment to surgery for renal tumors smaller than 4 cm. However, evidence is lacking for larger tumors, despite encouraging data for tumors up to 7 cm.

Material and methods

This retrospective descriptive study of a population with a stage T1b renal tumor treated by cryoablation was conducted at the Nantes University Hospital between January 2009 and July 2021. Primary endpoint was 3-year rate of local recurrence. Secondary endpoints included technical efficacy, overall and cancer-specific survivals, and safety assessment.

Results

A total of 63 patients were analyzed. Three-year rate of local recurrence was 11.1%. Primary and secondary technical efficacies were achieved in 88.9% and 96.8% of patients, respectively, and 3-year overall and cancer-specific survival were 87.3% and 95.2%, respectively. Most patients (73%) experienced no complications, 13% of patients had minor (CIRSE grades 1 or 2) adverse effects, and 13% had severe but non-lethal (CIRSE grade 3) adverse effects. One patient died following cryoablation due to colic perforation. The most common AE (all grades) was hemorrhage (9.5%).

Discussion

This study showed a good efficacy and safety of cryoablation for renal tumors up to 7 cm (T1b). Our results were consistent with a rather sparse literature and contributed to guide future recommendations about cryoablation as an alternative to surgery for T1b renal tumors.
Primary presentation and clinical course of pediatric and adolescent patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma after radioiodine therapy
Authors: Burgard Caroline , Zacherl Mathias Johannes , Todica Andrei , Hornung Julia , Grawe Freba , Pekrul Isabell , Zimmermann Petra , Schmid-Tannwald Christine , Ladurner Roland , Krenz Detlef , Trupka Arnold , Wagner Johanna , Bartenstein Peter , Spitzweg Christine , Wenter Vera
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) in childhood and during adolescence is extremely rare. Pediatric DTC commonly presents with advanced disease at diagnosis including a high prevalence of cervical lymph node metastases and pulmonary metastases. Studies in children with DTC are limited. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the initial presentation, effectiveness of radioiodine therapy (RIT), and long-term outcome of prepubertal in comparison to pubertal/postpubertal patients.

Methods

Eighty-five pediatric and young patients aged 6.4 to 21.9 years with histopathologically confirmed DTC were retrospectively included. They all underwent total thyroidectomy followed by RIT. Initial presentation and outcome of prepubertal and pubertal/postpubertal patients were compared 1 year after RIT, during follow-up, and at the last visit of follow-up.

Results

Prepubertal patients presented with significantly higher T and M stages. One year after RIT, 42/81 (52%) patients still presented with evidence of disease (ED). During follow-up of a median of 7.9 years, prepubertal patients were less often in complete remission (58% vs. 82% in pubertal patients). At the last visit of follow-up, 19/80 (24%) patients still had ED without statistical differences between the two groups (42% prepubertal vs. 18% pubertal/postpubertal, p-value 0.06). None of our patients died disease-related over the observed period.

Conclusion

Prepubertal children with DTC presented with a more advanced tumor stage at the initial presentation. During follow-up, they present more often with ED. However, at the end of our study, we did not observe statistically relevant differences in patient outcomes between the prepubertal and pubertal/postpubertal groups.
The novel high-affinity humanized antibody IMM40H targets CD70, eliminates tumors via Fc-mediated effector functions, and interrupts CD70/CD27 signaling
Authors: Li Song , Chen Dianze , Guo Huiqin , Liu Dandan , Yang Chunmei , Zhang Ruliang , Wang Tianxiang , Zhang Fan , Bai Xing , Yang Yanan , Sun Nana , Zhang Wei , Zhang Li , Zhao Gui , Peng Liang , Tu Xiaoping , Tian Wenzhi
Published: October 2023

Background

A significant level of CD70 can be detected in various types of tumor tissues and CD27 is expressed on Treg cells, but CD70 expression is low in normal tissues. The interaction between CD70 and CD27 can stimulate the proliferation and survival of cancer cells and increase the level of soluble CD27, which is associated with poor prognosis in patients with lymphoma and certain solid tumors. Thus, it is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of many major CD70+ cancer indications, including CD70+ lymphoma, RCC, NSCLC, HNSCC and OC.

Methods

IMM40H was obtained through hybridoma screening and antibody humanization techniques. IMM40H was evaluated for its binding, blocking, Fc-dependent effector functions and antitumor activity characteristics in various in vitro and in vivo systems. The safety and tolerability profile of IMM40H were evaluated through single and repeated administration in cynomolgus monkeys.

Results

In vitro cell-based assays demonstrated that IMM40H had considerably stronger CD70-binding affinity than competitor anti-CD70 antibodies, including cusatuzumab, which enabled it to block the interaction of between CD70 and CD27 more effectively. IMM40H also exhibited potent Fc-dependent effector functions (ADCC/CDC/ADCP), and could make a strong immune attack on tumor cells and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Preclinical findings showed that IMM40H had potent antitumor activity in multiple myeloma U266B1 xenograft model, and could eradicate subcutaneously established tumors at a low dose of 0.3 mg/kg. IMM40H (0.3 mg/kg) showed therapeutic effects faster than cusatuzumab (1 mg/kg). A strong synergistic effect between IMM01 (SIRPα-Fc fusion protein) and IMM40H was recorded in Burkitt’s lymphoma Raji and renal carcinoma cell A498 tumor models. In cynomolgus monkeys, the highest non-severely toxic dose (HNSTD) for repeat-dose toxicity was up to 30 mg/kg, while the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for single-dose toxicity was up to 100 mg/kg, confirming that IMM40H had a good safety and tolerability profile.

Conclusion

IMM40H is a high-affinity humanized IgG1 specifically targeting the CD70 monoclonal antibody with enhanced Fc-dependent activities. IMM40H has a dual mechanism of action: inducing cytotoxicity against CD70+ tumor cells via various effector functions (ADCC, ADCP and CDC) and obstructs the proliferation and activation of Tregs by inhibiting CD70/CD27 signaling.
Light-dependent changes in the outer plexiform layer of the mouse retina
Authors: Haley Tammie L. , Hecht Ryan M. , Ren Gaoying , Carroll James R. , Aicher Sue A. , Duvoisin Robert M. , Morgans Catherine W.
Published: October 2023

The ability of the visual system to relay meaningful information over a wide range of lighting conditions is critical to functional vision, and relies on mechanisms of adaptation within the retina that adjust sensitivity and gain as ambient light changes. Photoreceptor synapses represent the first stage of image processing in the visual system, thus activity-driven changes at this site are a potentially powerful, yet under-studied means of adaptation. To gain insight into these mechanisms, the abundance and distribution of key synaptic proteins involved in photoreceptor to ON-bipolar cell transmission were compared between light-adapted mice and mice subjected to prolonged dark exposure (72 hours), by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy and immunoblotting. We also tested the effects on protein abundance and distribution of 0.5-4 hours of light exposure following prolonged darkness. Proteins examined included the synaptic ribbon protein, ribeye, and components of the ON-bipolar cell signal transduction pathway (mGluR6, TRPM1, RGS11, GPR179, Goα). The results indicate a reduction in immunoreactivity for ribeye, TRPM1, mGluR6, and RGS11 following prolonged dark exposure compared to the light-adapted state, but a rapid restoration of the light-adapted pattern upon light exposure. Electron microscopy revealed similar ultrastructure of light-adapted and dark-adapted photoreceptor terminals, with the exception of electron dense vesicles in dark-adapted but not light-adapted ON-bipolar cell dendrites. To assess synaptic transmission from photoreceptors to ON-bipolar cells, we recorded electroretinograms after different dark exposure times (2, 16, 24, 48, 72 hours) and measured the b-wave to a-wave ratios. Consistent with the reduction in synaptic proteins, the b/a ratios were smaller following prolonged dark exposure (48-72 hours) compared to 16 hours dark exposure (13-21%, depending on flash intensity). Overall, the results provide evidence of light/dark-dependent plasticity in photoreceptor synapses at the biochemical, morphological, and physiological levels.
An innovative multi-modal retinal imaging system for in vivo retinal detection in small animals
Authors: Tang Zhengyuan , Zhao Tianze , Ren Ji , Zhang Kuan , Yin Qi , Zhang Teng , Zhang Hui , Dong Tianyu , Zhang Pengfei , Zhang Jie
Published: October 2023

This paper presents an innovative retinal imaging system tailored for in vivo fundus detection in small animals. This system integrates Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscopy (SLO) and optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) techniques, enabling the simultaneous generation of images from various modalities, including SLO reflectance, SLO fluorescein angiogram, OCT, and OCT angiogram. The existing multi-modal retinal imaging systems generally encounter limitations such as the inability to detect peripheral lesion areas attributed to small Field of View (FOV) design and susceptibility to sample motion due to slow data acquisition speed. To address these challenges, it’s essential to underscore that this proposed system offers a range of notable advantages, including its compact design, the capacity for widefield imaging with a FOV of up to 100°, and a rapid OCT A-scan rate of 250 kHz, notably exceeding the capabilities of pre-existing multi-modal retinal imaging systems. Validation of the system involved imaging the eyes of normal wild-type mice and diseased mice afflicted with retinal detachment and choroidal neovascularization (CNV). The favorable imaging results demonstrate the system’s reliability in identifying retinal lesions in small animals.
A pilot study of cerebral metabolism and serotonin 5-HT2A receptor occupancy in rats treated with the psychedelic tryptamine DMT in conjunction with the MAO inhibitor harmine
Authors: Egger Klemens , Gudmundsen Frederik , Jessen Naja Støckel , Baun Christina , Poetzsch Sandra N. , Shalgunov Vladimir , Herth Matthias M. , Quednow Boris B. , Martin-Soelch Chantal , Dornbierer Dario , Scheidegger Milan , Cumming Paul , Palner Mikael
Published: October 2023

Rationale: The psychedelic effects of the traditional Amazonian botanical decoction known as ayahuasca are often attributed to agonism at brain serotonin 5-HT2A receptors by N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). To reduce first pass metabolism of oral DMT, ayahuasca preparations additionally contain reversible monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) inhibitors, namely β-carboline alkaloids such as harmine. However, there is lacking biochemical evidence to substantiate this pharmacokinetic potentiation of DMT in brain via systemic MAO-A inhibition.

Objectives: We measured the pharmacokinetic profile of harmine and/or DMT in rat brain, and tested for pharmacodynamic effects on brain glucose metabolism and DMT occupancy at brain serotonin 5-HT2A receptors.

Methods: We first measured brain concentrations of harmine and DMT after treatment with harmine and/or DMT at low sub-cutaneous doses (1 mg/kg each) or harmine plus DMT at moderate doses (3 mg/kg each). In the same groups of rats, we also measured ex vivo the effects of these treatments on the availability of serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in frontal cortex. Finally, we explored effects of DMT and/or harmine (1 mg/kg each) on brain glucose metabolism with [18F]FDG-PET.

Results: Results confirmed that co-administration of harmine inhibited the formation of the DMT metabolite indole-3-acetic acid (3-IAA) in brain, while correspondingly increasing the cerebral availability of DMT. However, we were unable to detect any significant occupancy by DMT at 5-HT2A receptors measured ex vivo, despite brain DMT concentrations as high as 11.3 µM. We did not observe significant effects of low dose DMT and/or harmine on cerebral [18F]FDG-PET uptake.

Conclusion: These preliminary results call for further experiments to establish the dose-dependent effects of harmine/DMT on serotonin receptor occupancy and cerebral metabolism.
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of ursolic acid: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Man , Wu Fengyang , Tang Zhaohong , Yang Xinyu , Liu Yanhua , Wang Fengxia , Chen Baojiang
Published: October 2023

Introduction: There is currently evidence suggesting that ursolic acid may exert a favorable influence on both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant impact. Nevertheless, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of ursolic acid have not been systematically evaluated. Consequently, this study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis regarding the impact of ursolic acid on markers of inflammatory and antioxidant activity in both animal models and in vitro systems.

Methods: The search encompassed databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, up until May 2023. All eligible articles in English were included in the analysis. Standard mean difference (SMD) was pooled using a random-effects model, and the included studies underwent a thorough assessment for potential bias.

Results: The final review comprised 31 articles. In disease-model related studies, animal experiments have consistently shown that ursolic acid significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory parameters IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in mouse tissues. In vitro studies have similarly showed that ursolic acid significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory parameters IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α. Our results showed that ursolic acid could significantly elevate SOD and GSH levels, while significantly reducing MDA levels in animal tissues. The results of in vitro studies shown that ursolic acid significantly increased the level of GSH and decreased the level of MDA.

Discussion: Findings from both animal and in vitro studies suggest that ursolic acid decreases inflammatory cytokine levels, elevates antioxidant enzyme levels, and reduces oxidative stress levels (graphical abstract). This meta-analysis furnishes compelling evidence for the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ursolic acid.
Therapeutic mechanisms of ginseng in coronary heart disease
Authors: Tang Miao-Miao , Zhao Shu-Ting , Li Ran-Qi , Hou Wei
Published: October 2023

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common clinical manifestation of cardiovascular disease. It is characterized by myocardial ischemia, which is caused by coronary atherosclerosis. CHD is a significant global health problem with increasing prevalence every year because of significant changes in the lifestyles and diets. Ginseng is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb that has been used in food preparations and traditional medicine for several centuries. Several studies have demonstrated that ginseng improved cardiac function by normalizing blood glucose levels and decreasing blood pressure, oxidative stress, platelet aggregation, and lipid dysregulation in vivo. This review describes the current understanding of the mechanisms by which ginseng alleviates CHD, and provides a reference for the clinical development and application of ginseng as an alternative therapy for CHD.
Efficacy and safety of Ophiocordyceps sinensis in the treatment of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wei Maoying , Ma Wenxin , Zhang Wenhua , Yin Dan , Tang Yiting , Jia Weiyu , Jiang Yijia , Wang Churan , Gong Yanbing
Published: October 2023

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ophiocordyceps sinensis (OS) preparations for the treatment of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT).

Methods: We searched eight databases to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of OS combined with a low-iodine diet or levothyroxine for HT. The search period was from inception to June 2023. Meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.3 software after two evaluators independently screened the literature, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias of the included studies. The GRADE system was used to assess the certainty of evidence.

Results: A total of 14 RCTs involving 1,014 patients with HT were included. Meta-analysis showed that OS preparations combined with a low-iodine diet were more effective in reducing thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) [SMD = −3.81, 95% CI (−5.07, −2.54), p < 0.00001] and thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) [SMD = −4.73, 95% CI (−6.86, −2.61), p < 0.00001] compared to a low-iodine diet. Compared with levothyroxine treatment alone, OS preparations combined with levothyroxine further reduced TPOAb [SMD = −2.04, 95% CI (−2.82, −1.26), p < 0.00001], TgAb [SMD = −2.01, 95% CI (−2.68, −1.33), p < 0.00001], tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) [SMD = −3.40, 95% CI (−5.66, −1.14), p = 0.003], interleukin-2 (IL-2) [SMD = −2.31, 95% CI (−3.98, −0.65), p = 0.006], and interleukin-6 (IL-6) [MD = −4.16, 95% CI (−6.17, −2.15), p < 0.0001], and elevated free thyroxine (FT4) [SMD = 1.34, 95% CI (0.59, 2.08), p = 0.0004], but no significant effect on free triiodothyronine (FT3) [SMD = 0.83, 95% CI (−0.12, 1.78), p = 0.09] and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) [SMD = −0.80, 95% CI (−1.71, 0.11), p = 0.08]. In terms of safety, three studies reported adverse reactions in 10 patients in each of the experimental and control groups.

Conclusion: OS preparations in combination with other treatments (low-iodine diet or levothyroxine) may decrease thyroid autoantibodies and inflammatory responses in patients with HT. In HT patients with hypothyroidism, the combination of the OS preparations with levothyroxine also improved FT4. However, the quality of the included studies was generally low. Moreover, the safety of OS preparations remains unclear. Therefore, more high-quality, multicenter, large-sample RCTs are needed in the future to validate the efficacy and safety of OS preparations.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023432663
Amphetamines in child medicine: a review of ClinicalTrials.gov
Authors: Alalalmeh Samer O. , Hegazi Omar E. , Shahwan Moyad , Alshehri Fahad S. , Ashour Ahmed M. , Algarni Alanood S. , Alorfi Nasser M.
Published: October 2023

Background: Globally, the use of amphetamines as therapeutic agents in pediatric medicine is a crucial area of concern, especially given the population’s vulnerability.

Methods: On 6 August 2023, a search was conducted on ClinicalTrials.gov using “amphetamine” as the keyword. Two independent examiners screened trials against set criteria, including a focus on amphetamine, completion status, an interventional approach, and included children. Ongoing or observational studies were excluded. Data extracted from the qualified trials encompassed primary objectives, participant counts, study duration, and outcomes, with the aim of analyzing children disorders treated by amphetamine.

Results: On 6 August 2023, a search of the ClinicalTrials.gov database with the term “amphetamines” identified 179 clinical trials. After extensive exclusion criteria, 19 trials were ultimately selected for analysis. The predominant condition under investigation was attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), present in 84.2% of studies. Key study characteristics included: phase 4 trials (36.8%), randomized allocation (63.2%), and the parallel intervention model (42.1%). Masking techniques varied, with no masking in 42.1% of studies, and double and quadruple masking both accounting for 21.1%. Geographically, 78.9% of the studies’ participants were from the United States.

Conclusion: This study highlights the notable therapeutic potential of amphetamines in pediatric ADHD populations and emphasizes the importance of recognizing potential side effects and addiction risks. As pharmacogenomics offers the prospect of personalized treatments, there is potential to increase therapeutic efficacy and decrease adverse reactions. It is vital to balance these benefits against the inherent risks, understanding the need for continued research to optimize the use of amphetamines in medicine.
Function verification of a chlorophyll a/b binding protein gene through a newly established tobacco rattle virus-induced gene silencing system in Kandelia obovata
Authors: Zhang Mingxiong , Rao Yuhui , Chen Xiaofeng , Shi Yunrui , Wei Chonglong , Wang Xianfeng , Wang Lu , Xie Chengjin , Pan Chenglang , Chen Jianming
Published: October 2023

As an important mangrove species, Kandelia obovata plays an irreplaceable role in the coastal ecosystem. However, due to a lack of genetic technology, there is limited research on its functional genes. As such, establishing an efficient and rapid functional verification system is particularly important. In this study,tobacco rattle virus (TRV) and the phytoene desaturase gene KoPDS were used as the vector and target gene, respectively, to establish a virus-induced gene silencing system (VIGS) in K. obovata. Besides, the system was also used to verify the role of a Chlorophyll a/b binding protein (Cab) gene KoCAB in leaf carbon sequestration of K. obovata.

RNA-Seq and qRT-PCR showed that the highest gene-silencing efficiency could reach 90% after 10 days of inoculation and maintain above 80% after 15 days, which was achieved with resuspension buffer at pH 5.8 and Agrobacterium culture at OD600 of 0.4-0.6. Taken together, the TRV-mediated VIGS system established herein is the first genetic analysis tool for mangroves, which may greatly impel functional genomics studies in mangrove plants.
Resilience anchors for children in an out-of-home care institution during and after COVID-19
Authors: Malindi Macalane Junel , Hay Johnnie
Published: October 2023

Growing numbers of children of all ages grow up in out-of-home care institutions due to personal and socioecological risk variables that destabilized their families of origin. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic which disrupted lives and development, there is particular interest in how children who grow up in out-of-home care institutions cope and develop. This paper reports the findings of a study that sought to document anchors of resilience in children who resided in a care institution run by a non-governmental, church-based welfare organization in one of the central provinces of South Africa. In line with recent developments in childcare, the organization mainly functions via smaller child and youth group homes across the province (compared to bigger children’s homes in the past). In our qualitative, phenomenological study, we used the participatory, child-friendly, and less intrusive draw-and-write technique to generate data. We asked the 20 participating children of one of these group homes to make drawings that mirror their lives, and to write paragraphs in which they described their drawings. All were school-going children in care, aged from 12 to 19. There were 11 girls and 9 boys in the study, and one of these identified as “other.” The grades ranged from 7 to 12 and they spoke African languages, namely Afrikaans, Sesotho, Setswana and IsiXhosa. We used inductive content analysis to process the data, and the findings indicate that, notwithstanding personal and socioecological risks during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the resilience of the participants was anchored by a number of universal personal strengths as well as socioecological resources.
Inflammation and viral infection as disease modifiers in schizophrenia
Authors: Klein Hans C. , Guest Paul C. , Dobrowolny Henrik , Steiner Johann
Published: October 2023

Numerous studies have now implicated a role for inflammation in schizophrenia. However, many aspects surrounding this aspect of the disease are still controversial. This controversy has been driven by conflicting evidence on the role of both pro-and anti-inflammatory factors and by often contentious findings concerning cytokine and immune cell profiles in the central nervous system and periphery. Current evidence supports the point that interleukin-6 is elevated in CSF, but does not support activation of microglia, resident macrophage-like cells in the brain. Furthermore, the mechanisms involving transit of the peripheral immune system factors across the blood brain barrier to central parenchyma have still not been completely elucidated. This process appears to involve perivascular macrophages and accompanying dendritic cells retained in the parenchyma by the chemokine and cytokine composition of the surrounding milieu. In addition, a number of studies have shown that this can be modulated by infection with viruses such as herpes simplex virus type I which may disrupt antigen presentation in the perivascular space, with long-lasting consequences. In this review article, we discuss the role of inflammation and viral infection as potential disease modifiers in schizophrenia. The primary viral hit may occur in the fetus in utero, transforming the immune response regulatory T-cells or the virus may secondarily remain latent in immune cells or neurons and modify further immune responses in the developing individual. It is hoped that unraveling this pathway further and solidifying our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved will pave the way for future studies aimed at identification and implementation of new biomarkers and drug targets. This may facilitate the development of more effective personalized therapies for individuals suffering with schizophrenia.
Examining the factor structure and validity of the WHOQOL-AGE among the oldest-old Chinese in Singapore
Authors: Cheng Grand H.-L. , Feng QiuShi , Chong Yap-Seng , Koh Woon-Puay
Published: October 2023

Objectives

A short measure of quality of life in old age is essential. The present study examined the factor structure and validity of the 13-item WHOQOL-AGE among the oldest-old.

Methods

Data came from 1,000 Chinese aged ≥85 years in Singapore. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyzes were conducted on the WHOQOL-AGE. Regression examined the demographic, social and health correlates of the identified factors.

Results

Factor analyzes suggested a bifactor model of the WHOQOL-AGE, which comprised three specific factors, namely “health,” “environment” and “mastery,” in addition to the general factor (“overall”). Partial scalar invariance (concerning only one item) and scalar invariance were established across gender and education level respectively, generally supporting the measurement invariance of this model. Regression results demonstrated known-groups validity. Health correlates were more predictive of “health” than “environment” and “mastery,” with more basic and instrumental activities of daily living, lower depressive symptomatology and fewer falls positively relating to “health.” Strength of social network and social engagement (social correlates) positively related to “environment” and “mastery” but not “health.”

Conclusion

The WHOQOL-AGE exhibits a bifactor structure and known-groups validity among the oldest-old Chinese in Singapore. It seems useful to capture different facets of quality of life in the concerned population.
Mandatory health insurance for the informal sector in Tanzania—has it worked anywhere!
Authors: Mori Amani Thomas
Published: October 2023

Many countries in sub-Saharan Africa are struggling to expand voluntary health insurance schemes to raise finances toward achieving universal health coverage. With more than three-quarters of the population without any insurance, the government of Tanzania has unsuccessfully tried to pass a Bill proposing a mandatory, nationwide scheme to cover the large and diverse informal sector. The Bill proposed an annual premium of ∼150 USD for a household of six or 65 USD per person. Studies in Tanzania and Kenya have shown that the majority of people in the informal sector are unwilling and unable to pay premiums as low as 4 USD, mostly due to poverty. Mandatory health insurance for the informal sector is not common in this region, mostly because it is difficult to enforce. Successful insurance schemes have included significant subsidies from tax revenues. Tanzania should not seek to raise funds for health through an unenforceable insurance scheme but rather should consider a largely tax-funded scheme for the informal sector. Contributions through low-cost voluntary schemes can enhance social contracts, reduce out-of-pocket expenditure, and promote efficient utilization. In addition, progressive health taxes should be imposed on harmful products (tobacco, alcohol, sugary drinks, etc.) to raise more funds while addressing the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases. Furthermore, efficiency in the use of scarce health resources should be promoted through realistic prioritization of public services, the use of Health Technology Assessment, and strategic purchasing.
Climate-neutral and Smart Cities: a critical review through the lens of environmental justice
Authors: Beretta Ilaria , Bracchi Caterina
Published: October 2023

The political choices made by the European institutions in the last twenty years show how the conviction is increasingly rooted that the management of environmental problems and, more specifically, the fight against climate change can find a valid solution in technology and eco-innovations. This is evident starting from the last two growth strategies adopted (Europe 2020 and the European Green Deal), from the long series of measures implemented to put them into practice and from the main R&I funding programs, such as Horizon Europe. In this context, the problem of justice and inclusiveness of the various initiatives implemented is attracting growing attention. In fact, if the institutional documents assume that green and smart participated projects are also fair and inclusive, a growing body of literature based on empirical studies seems to refute this assumption. Within this framework, the present work analyses first the critical literature and then the three main preparatory documents for the Horizon Europe Mission Climate-neutral and Smart Cities, which selected 100 European cities to become climate-neutral by 2030. These have been studied through the lens of environmental justice, in order to assess the European Commission’s understanding of the existing and arising equity issues in the path toward climate neutrality. The research shows that, while the first two documents seemed informed by the idea that participation automatically translates into equality, the last guidelines show a deeper acknowledgement of the multidimensional nature of environmental justice. One that, beyond participation, also considers issues of distribution, rights, responsibilities and recognition. The present work should nevertheless be understood as a preparatory, analytical tool that will require the further definition and implementation of Climate City Contracts by the selected cities, in order to assess how the issue of environmental justice is effectively being considered in each specific context.
Water quality mitigation strategy analysis of the Salton Sea, California, using the Delft-3D modeling suite
Authors: Lee Meng-Chen , Stenstrom Michael K.
Published: October 2023

The Salton Sea is the largest lake in California and is a shallow, hypersaline lake. The endorheic lake has been significantly maintained by agricultural return flows from Imperial Valley farming and two rivers- the New River and Alamo River- which originate in Mexicali, Mexico. The current salinity is at 74 ppt and is expected to increase due to the Quantification Settlement Agreement signed in 2003, stipulating the transfer of nearly 0.616 km3 per year of Colorado River water to urban areas for up to 75 years. This has resulted in inflows reduction, and the dust storms created by the dried-up playa have become a prominent risk to public health in the region. Massive fish and bird kills began in the 1980s and continued to occur periodically. In this study, the Delft3D numerical modeling suite- FLOW, WAVE, and WAQ- was utilized to investigate the transport and cycling of nutrients under the influence of wind-induced sediment resuspension activity. The three-dimensional hydrodynamic and water quality combined model was applied to simulate mitigation scenarios to assess long-term effects on salinity and water quality of (1) emerged islands as a nature-based solution, (2) seawater import/export, and (3) seawater import/export in addition to treating tributary rivers to remove nutrients. Overall, this study supported the findings from previous studies and showed that sediment resuspension is the driving force for nutrients cycling in the water column and that emerged islands have long-term potential to enhance burial activity for pollutants removal in the Salton Sea. Furthermore, the seawater import/export scenario showed promising results of reducing salinity level from 46 ppt to 38–39 ppt in 2 years. The 3D numerical hydrodynamic/water quality model developed in this work is the first and latest integrated modeling approach tailored to the Salton Sea's system and has the capacity to improve understanding of the complicated water quality dynamics changes in various restoration concepts. This study demonstrated that being able to explore the full potentials of restoration designs using a comprehensive 3D water quality modeling framework is critical in achieving wholesome planning that will create environmental, social, and economic benefits in the long term for the Salton Sea.
Does altitude have an effect on stroke mortality and hospitalization risk? A comprehensive evaluation of United States data
Authors: Gerken Jacob , Huber Nathan , Zapata Demi , Barron Ileana G. , Zapata Isain
Published: October 2023

Background

Globally, stroke is a leading cause of death among people over 50 years of age. In the United States alone, over 150,000 people die due to stroke every year. Environmental factors such as altitude may play a role in these outcomes; however, their effects have not yet been comprehensively explored. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of altitude along with other covariates on stroke mortality and hospitalization rates in adults.

Methods

This study utilized altitude, stroke mortality and hospitalization rates; antihypertensive and cholesterol-lowering medication usage; smoking prevalence; and sociodemographic data (MH-SVI) obtained from government databases for 3,141 counties in the United States from 2018 to 2020. Data were analyzed using generalized additive models with and without adjustments for covariates.

Results

Unadjusted models show that altitude has a comparable significant negative effect on mortality rates for Black and white populations. When including all covariates, altitude continues to have a significant protective effect against stroke fatalities in white populations (retaining 26.6 and 53.8% of the effect magnitude for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and stroke mortality, respectively), a non-significant effect in the Black population, and a detrimental effect in Hispanic and Asian Pacific populations for CVD mortality (a 21.6 and 39.1% effect increase, respectively).

Conclusion

Our findings add to the growing body of evidence that environmental factors add to disparities between racial groups and play a significant role in CVD and stroke mortality. The effect of altitude is comparable in size to that of smoking, medication usage, and social determinants of health.
Uneven ground? Intersectional gender inequalities in the commercialized cassava seed system in Tanzania
Authors: Liani Millicent L. , Cole Steven M. , Mwakanyamale Devis F. , Baumung Leanne , Saleh Nadira , Webber Ashlea , Tufan Hale A. , Kapinga Regina
Published: October 2023

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is an important crop in Africa, especially to women who rely on it as a household staple food and source of income. In Tanzania, a recent move toward commercializing the cassava seed system resulted in significantly fewer women than men farmers, known as Cassava Seed Entrepreneurs (CSEs), producing improved seed for sale to fellow farmers. To document the barriers and constraints that create gender inequalities in the seed system to better understand women’s low representation and experiences in commercialized cassava seed production, we carried out a mixed-methods study in the Southern, Eastern, and Lake Zones of Tanzania in 2021. The quantitative analysis found differences in key individual and household characteristics between CSEs and farmers who aspired to be but did not participate as CSEs (or A-CSEs) as well as between women CSEs and women A-CSEs. After running a logistic regression, results indicated that sex of the farmer (being male) was a statistically significant predictor of participating as a CSE (p < 0.05), along with having a secondary education (p < 0.05) and owning a bank account (p < 0.01). The qualitative analysis highlighted challenges women CSEs face. They spoke about having lower access to and control over prerequisite resources, which are shaped by other intersecting social identities such as marital status and age. Gender stereotypes about their capacities to manage their seed businesses can demotivate them from carrying out their work as well as experiences dealing with discriminatory gender norms that limit their travel to attend trainings outside their communities. Despite these barriers, some women CSEs expressed positive outcomes that have accrued from their participation in commercialized seed production, including enhanced social status and improved living standards. For the commercialized cassava seed system to be more socially inclusive and sustainable, we argue that there is need to adopt gender-aware approaches to address the underlying barriers and biases that exclude women and other social groups. Development efforts should consider combining social change innovations with seed system interventions to address the inequitable norms and power relations that create unique constraints for women to operate effectively as seed entrepreneurs.
Bioconcentration of carbamazepine, enalapril, and sildenafil in neotropical fish species
Authors: Rojo Macarena Gisele , Cristos Diego , Carriquiriborde Pedro
Published: October 2023

Sewage effluents are the main source of entry of Human Pharmaceutical Active Ingredients (HPAIs) to surface water bodies. Carbamazepine (CBZ), psychiatric drug, enalapril (ENA) antihypertensive, and sildenafil (SIL), to treat erectile dysfunction, have been frequently detected in receiving wastewater and in wild fish species from Argentina. This study aimed to assess the bioconcentration of selected HPAIs in native fish species of the Del Plata Basin. In a first trial, the bioconcentration factors of CBZ, ENA, and SIL were obtained by exposing Cnesterodon decemmaculatus, respectively, to 135, 309, and 70 μg/L during 96 h. Then the bioconcentration kinetic of SIL was comparatively assessed in C. decemmaculatus and Piaractus mesopotamicus exposed, respectively, to 44.1 and 16.2 μg/L during a one-week, followed by a four-day depuration phase. HPAIs concentrations in water and tissue were measured by HPLC-MS after 0.22 μm filtration and direct injection or solid-liquid extraction, respectively. Bioconcentration factors obtained empirically (BCFe) for C. decemmaculatus were CBZ = 1.5, SIL = 1.4, and ENA = 0.007. Parameters estimated by the SIL bioconcentration kinetic model for C. decemmaculatus were: uptake rate constant (k1) = 5.5 L/kg d, elimination rate constant during uptake phase (k2u) = 0.00175 d−1, maximum predicted tissue concentration (Ct(max)) = 138588 μg/kg, estimated bioconcentration factor (BCFm) = 3143, lag time between the exposure and the first detection in tissue (tlag) = 0 d, elimination rate constant in the depuration phase (k2d) = 0.49 d−1 and half-life in the tissue (t1/2) = 1.4 d. The model parameters for P. mesopotamicus were k1: 7.3 L/kg d, k2u: 0.0836 d−1, Ct(max): 1423 μg/kg, BCFm: 88, tlag: 3.8 d in the uptake phase and k2d: 0.31 d−1 and t1/2: 2.3 d in the depuration phase. The reached conclusions were: 1) the bioconcentration capacity of CBZ and SIL are similar but around 200 times higher than ENA, 2) the time to reach the bioconcentration equilibrium for SIL is longer than 1 week, then estimated BCFm are between 1 and 3 orders of magnitude higher than BCFe obtained after 96 h exposure, but actual values need to be verified, 3) substantial differences (≈30 fold) were observed in the estimated BCF of SIL among species, indicating the need for further studies toward understanding such diversity to improve HPAIs ecological risk assessment worldwide.
Molecular identification of carnivore chaphamaparvovirus 2 (feline chaphamaparvovirus) in cats with diarrhea from China
Authors: Cui Hao , Zhang Zhibin , Xu Xin , Zuo Kejing , Ji Jun , Guo Ge , Kan Yunchao , Yao Lunguang , Xie Qingmei , Bi Yingzuo
Published: October 2023

Chaphamaparvovirus carnivoran2 (feline chaphamaparvovirus, FeChPV) is a novel feline parvovirus originally detected in Canadian cats in 2019, and it has also been identified in domestic cats in other nations. To evaluate the prevalence and genetic diversity of FeChPV in China, rectal swabs of pet cats from Henan, Guangdong, Anhui, Zhejiang, and Inner Mongolia provinces were collected. Of the 230 samples subjected to nested polymerase chain reaction, 6 (2.6%) tested positive for FeChPV. Although all positive samples were from cats with diarrhea, statistical analyses revealed no correlation between the presence of the virus and clinical symptoms (p > 0.05). Phylogenetic trees of nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) and capsid protein (VP1) demonstrated that these six new strains formed a major branch with other reference FeChPV strains and considerably differed from Chaphamaparvoviru carnivoran1. Moreover, recombination analysis revealed that the FeChPV strain CHN20201025, previously detected in a dog, was a recombinant and strains CHN200228 and CHN180917, identified in this study, were the closest relatives to the parental strains. The findings of this study and a previous study wherein FeChPV was detected in dogs suggest that FeChPV can propagate between species. Additionally, these findings indicate that the genetic diversity of FeChPV can provide an insight into the epidemiological status of FeChPV in China.
Impact of Previous Conventional Cardiac Surgery on the Clinical Outcomes After Heart Transplantation
Authors: Chen Jeng-Wei , Chou Heng-Wen , Chou Nai-Kuan , Wang Chih-Hsien , Chi Nai-Hsin , Huang Shu-Chien , Yu Hsi-Yu , Chen Yih-Sharng , Hsu Ron-Bin
Published: October 2023

The impact of the type, purpose, and timing of prior surgery on heart transplantation (HT) remains unclear. This study investigated the influence of conventional cardiac surgery (PCCS) on HT outcomes. This study analyzed HTs performed between 1999 and 2019 at a single institution. Patients were categorized into two groups: those with and without PCCS. Short-term outcomes, including post-transplant complications and mortality rates, were evaluated. Cox proportional and Kaplan–Meier survival analyses were used to identify risk factors for mortality and assess long-term survival, respectively. Of 368 patients, 29% had PCCS. Patients with PCCS had a higher incidence of post-transplant complications. The in-hospital and 1 year mortality rates were higher in the PCCS group. PCCS and cardiopulmonary bypass time were significant risk factors for 1 year mortality (hazard ratios = 2.485 and 1.005, respectively). The long-term survival rates were lower in the PCCS group, particularly in the first year. In sub-analysis, patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and PCCS had the poorest outcomes. The era of surgery and timing of PCCS in relation to HT did not significantly impact outcomes. In conclusion, PCCS worsen the HT outcomes, especially in patients with ischemic etiology. However, the timing of PCCS and era of HT did not significantly affect this concern.
Linking Natural Resource Dependence to Sustainable Household Wellbeing: A Case Study in Western China
Authors: Liu Wei , He Liyuan , Xu Jie , Xu Dingde
Published: October 2023

To reduce the threat of natural disasters, protect natural resources, and promote human wellbeing, Shaanxi Province, China has implemented the largest disaster resettlement project since 2011. It has moved 2.4 million people in three prefectures over 10 years. Using survey data from southern Shaanxi, China, this article measures sustainable household wellbeing (SHWB) and natural resource dependence in the context of disaster resettlement. It explores the differences in SHWB and natural resource dependence across different groups and relocation characteristics. To specifically analyze the effects of natural resource dependence on SHWB, ordinary least square (OLS) regression models were used to investigate their relationship. The results show that natural resource dependence shows significant positive correlation with SHWB. Meanwhile, the food dependence, energy dependence, and income dependence of relocated households show significant positive correlation with SHWB. Additionally, the SHWB of relocated households, voluntary relocation households, and centralized relocation households is significantly lower than local households, involuntary relocation households, and scattered relocation households. These findings have broader implications for rural communities in China and other developing countries, and are crucial for rural households to change the heavy dependence on natural resources and improve their wellbeing.
Sugarcane Row Gaps Assessment over Successive Burned and Unburned Annual Harvests
Authors: Cavalcanti Roberta Q. , Rolim Mário M. , de Lima Renato P. , Ortiz Pedro F. S. , Pedrosa Elvira M. R. , de Moraes Rodrigues Joez A.
Published: October 2023

Mechanized harvesting operations promote a series of benefits to sugarcane production but are also a cultivation step responsible for developing a series of problems for the soil and the plants due to plant mechanical damage, resulting in a decline in production over successive cycles due to row gaps emergence. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of burned and unburned harvesting systems on the occurrence of sugarcane row gaps over annual harvests. For this study, a burned and an unburned area were selected. The row gap number and length (sum of gaps, m) were measured after the sugarcane planting and plant-cane cultivation stages and after the first, second, and third sugarcane ratoon harvests. The results revealed that there was no difference in the number and length of row gaps between the burned and unburned harvesting systems. However, the row gap number and length considerably increased after the second harvest in both treatments (burned and unburned). The row gap number and length were close to 5 and 1–5 m at the planting and plant-cane cultivation stages and increased to around 60 and 70 m as the harvest progressed, respectively, in burned and unburned harvesting. Our results suggest that row gaps in sugarcane fields are independent of the burned or unburned sugarcane harvesting system but increase as the number of harvests increases.