bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and associated factors of frailty among community dweller older adults living in Gondar town, northwest, Ethiopia: a community based cross-sectional study
Authors: Takele Mihret Dejen , Sany Kedir , Getie Kefale , Wayessa Dechasa Imiru , Jember Gashaw , Gobezie Melese , Abich Yohannes , Kibret Alemu Kassaw
Published: July 2023

Background

Frailty is a multidimensional geriatric condition that increases vulnerability to stressors, increases the risk of negative health outcomes, and lowers quality of life in older people. However, little attention has been paid to frailty in developing countries, particularly in Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of frailty syndrome and the sociodemographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors associated with it.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from April to June 2022. A total of 607 study participants were included using a single cluster sampling technique. The Tilburg frailty indicator, which is a self-reported schedule for assessment of frailty, required respondents to answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ and the total attainable score ranged from 0 to 15. An individual with a score of ≥ 5 considered frail. Data were collected by interviewing the participants using a structured questionnaire, and the data collection tools were pre-tested before the actual data collection period to check for the accuracy of responses, language clarity, and appropriateness of the tools. Statistical analyses were performed using the binary logistic regression model.

Results

More than half of the study participants were male, and the median age of the study participants was 70, with an age range of 60–95 years. The prevalence of frailty was 39% (CI 95%, 35.51–43.1). In the final multivariate analysis model, the following factors associated with frailty were obtained: older age (AOR = 6.26 CI (3.41–11.48), presence of two or more comorbidities (AOR = 6.05 CI (3.51–10.43), activity of daily life dependency (AOR = 4.12 CI (2.49–6.80), and depression (AOR = 2.68 CI (1.55–4.63) were found to be significant factors.

Conclusion and recommendations

Our study provides epidemiological characteristics and the risk factors of frailty in the study area. Efforts to promote physical, psychological, and social health in older adults are a core objective of health policy, especially for older adults aged 80 and above years, and those with two or more comorbidities.
Self-rated physical and mental health among older adults 80 years and older: cross-sectional results from a National community sample in Thailand
Authors: Pengpid Supa , Peltzer Karl
Published: July 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the self-reported physical health (SRPH) and self-reported mental health (SRMH) of older adults 80 years and older in Thailand.

Methods

We analyze national cross-sectional data from the Health, Aging and Retirement in Thailand (HART) in 2015. Physical and mental health status was assessed by self-report.

Results

The sample included 927 participants (excluding 101 proxy interviews), 80–117 years, median age 84 years [interquartile range (IQR) 81–86 years]. The median SRPH was 70.0 (IQR = 50.0–80.0), and median SRMH was 80.0 (IQR = 70.0 to 90.0). The prevalence of (good) SRPH was 53.3%, and the prevalence of (good) SRMH was 59.9%. In the final adjusted model, low or no income, living in the Northeastern, Northern and Southern region, daily activity limitations, moderate/severe pain, having one or two or more physical conditions, and low cognitive functioning were negatively associated, and higher physical activity was positively associated with good SRPH. No or low income, residing in the northern region of the country, daily activity limitations, low cognitive functioning, and probable depression were negatively associated with good SRMH, and physical activity was positively associated with good SRMH.

Conclusion

SRPH and SRMH was relatively high rated among the oldest old in Thailand, and influenced by various social, economic, and health-related factors. Special attention should be given to those with no or low income, those living in the non-central regions and those having no or low formal social engagement. Health care and other services should improve physical activity, financial support, and physical and mental care management to promote physical and mental well-being of older adults 80 years and older in Thailand.
Social network analysis of COVID-19 vaccine YouTube videos in Odisha, India: mapping the channel network and analyzing comment sentiment
Authors: Alperstein Neil , Pascual-Ferrá Paola , Ganjoo Rohini , Bhaktaram Ananya , Burleson Julia , Barnett Daniel J. , Jamison Amelia M. , Kluegel Eleanor , Mohanty Satyanarayan , Orton Peter Z. , Parida Manoj , Rath Sidharth , Rimal Rajiv
Published: July 2023

India has reported more than 35 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and nearly half a million cumulative deaths. Although vaccination rates for the first vaccine dose are quite high, one-third of the population has not received a second shot. Due to its widespread use and popularity, social media can play a vital role in enhancing vaccine acceptance. This study in a real-world setting utilizes YouTube videos in Odisha, India where the platform has deep penetration among the 18–35 target population, and secondarily their family and peers. Two contrasting videos were launched on the YouTube platform to examine how those videos operate within the broader recommender and subscription systems that determine the audience reach. Video analytics, algorithms for recommended videos, visual representation of connections created, centrality between the networks, and comment analysis was conducted. The results indicate that the video with a non-humorous tone and collectivistic appeal delivered by a female protagonist performed best with regard to views and time spent watching the videos. The results are of significance to health communicators who seek to better understand the platform mechanisms that determine the spread of videos and measures of viewer reactions based on viewer sentiment.
High apoptotic endothelial microparticle levels measured in asthma with elevated IgE and eosinophils
Authors: Strulovici-Barel Yael , Kaner Robert J. , Crystal Ronald G.
Published: July 2023

While asthma is considered an inflammatory-mediated airway epithelial and smooth muscle disorder, there is increasing evidence of airway capillary endothelial dysfunction associated with vascular remodelling and angiogenesis in some individuals with this condition. The inflammation is typically characterized as type-2 high (eosinophilic) vs type 2-low (neutrophilic and pauci-granulocytic); we hypothesized that the type-2 high group would be more likely to evidence endothelial dysfunction. As a biomarker of these processes, we hypothesized that nonsmokers with allergic asthma may have elevated plasma levels of endothelial microparticles (EMPs), membrane vesicles that are shed when endothelial cells undergo activation or apoptosis. Total and apoptotic circulating EMPs were measured by fluorescence-activated cell analysis in patients with allergic asthma (n = 29) and control subjects (n = 26), all nonsmokers. When the entire group of patients with asthma were compared to the control subjects, there were no differences in total circulating EMPs nor apoptotic EMPs. However, patients with asthma with elevated levels of IgE and eosinophils had higher levels of apoptotic EMPs, compared to patients with asthma with mildly increased IgE and eosinophil levels. This observation is relevant to precision therapies for asthma and highlights the importance of sub-phenotyping in the condition.
Association between the triglyceride–glucose index and the risk of mortality among patients with chronic heart failure: results from a retrospective cohort study in China
Authors: Zhou You , Wang Chi , Che Hebin , Cheng Liting , Zhu Di , Rao Chongyou , Zhong Qin , Li Zongren , Wang Xiao , Wu Zisheng , He Kunlun
Published: July 2023

Background

The triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index has been demonstrated to be a reliable surrogate marker of insulin resistance (IR) and an effective predictive index of cardiovascular (CV) disease risk. However, its long-term prognostic value in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) remains uncertain.

Methods

A total of 6697 consecutive patients with CHF were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into tertiles according to their TyG index. The incidence of primary outcomes, including all-cause death and CV death, was recorded. The TyG index was calculated as ln [fasting triglycerides (mg/dL) × fasting blood glucose (mg/dL)/2].

Results

During a median follow-up of 3.9 years, a total of 2158 (32.2%) all-cause deaths and 1305 (19.5%) CV deaths were documented. The incidence of primary events from the lowest to the highest TyG index tertiles were 50.61, 64.64, and 92.25 per 1000 person-years for all-cause death and 29.05, 39.40, and 57.21 per 1000 person-years for CV death. The multivariate Cox hazards regression analysis revealed hazard ratios for all-cause and CV deaths of 1.84 (95% CI 1.61–2.10;Pfor trend < 0.001) and 1.94 (95% CI 1.63–2.30;Pfor trend < 0.001) when the highest and lowest TyG index tertiles were compared. In addition, the predictive ability of the TyG index against all-cause death was more prominent among patients with metabolic syndrome and those with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction phenotype (bothPfor interaction < 0.05).

Furthermore, adding the TyG index to the established model for all-cause death improved the C‑statistic value (0.710 for the established model vs. 0.723 for the established model + TyG index,P < 0.01), the integrated discrimination improvement value (0.011,P < 0.01), the net reclassification improvement value (0.273,P < 0.01), and the clinical net benefit (probability range, 0.07–0.36).

Conclusions

The TyG index was significantly associated with the risk of mortality, suggesting that it may be a reliable and valuable predictor for risk stratification and an effective prognostic indicator in patients with CHF.
The use of RNA-based treatments in the field of cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Chehelgerdi Mohammad , Chehelgerdi Matin
Published: July 2023

Over the past several decades, mRNA vaccines have evolved from a theoretical concept to a clinical reality. These vaccines offer several advantages over traditional vaccine techniques, including their high potency, rapid development, low-cost manufacturing, and safe administration. However, until recently, concerns over the instability and inefficient distribution of mRNA in vivo have limited their utility. Fortunately, recent technological advancements have mostly resolved these concerns, resulting in the development of numerous mRNA vaccination platforms for infectious diseases and various types of cancer. These platforms have shown promising outcomes in both animal models and humans. This study highlights the potential of mRNA vaccines as a promising alternative approach to conventional vaccine techniques and cancer treatment. This review article aims to provide a thorough and detailed examination of mRNA vaccines, including their mechanisms of action and potential applications in cancer immunotherapy. Additionally, the article will analyze the current state of mRNA vaccine technology and highlight future directions for the development and implementation of this promising vaccine platform as a mainstream therapeutic option. The review will also discuss potential challenges and limitations of mRNA vaccines, such as their stability and in vivo distribution, and suggest ways to overcome these issues. By providing a comprehensive overview and critical analysis of mRNA vaccines, this review aims to contribute to the advancement of this innovative approach to cancer treatment.
Prognostic roles of hematological indicators for the efficacy and prognosis of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with advanced tumors: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zheng Fei , Meng Qingju , Zhang Lei , Chen Jingli , Zhao Liyan , Zhou Zhiguo , Liu Yibing
Published: July 2023

Background

Immunocheckpoint inhibitor(ICI) is a major breakthrough in tumor treatment. It can activate the patient’s own immune system and play an anti-tumor role, but not all patients can benefit from it. At present, there is still a lack of effective biomarkers to guide clinical application. The systemic immune inflammation(SII) index reflects the systemic inflammatory state and immune state of patients. Prognostic nutrition index(PNI) can be used to evaluate immune status of patients. Therefore, SII and PNI indexes may have some value in predicting the efficacy and prognosis of immunotherapy, but there is still a lack of relevant research. The purpose of our study was to explore the influence of SII and PNI index on the efficacy and prognosis of immunotherapy.

Methods

A total of 1935 patients treated with ICIs treatment in the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University from November 2016 to October 2021 were retrospectively collected. 435 patients who met the inclusion criteria and did not meet the exclusion criteria. The imaging data, blood results of each patient were collected within 1 week before ICIs treatment. The neutrophil lymphocyte ratio(NLR), platelet lymphocyte ratio(PLR), monocyte lymphocyte ratio(MLR), PNI,systemic inflammatory response index(SIRI),neutrophil-eosinophil ratio(NER) was calculated. The patients were followed up by in-patient, out-patient reexamination and telephone contact, and the efficacy evaluation and survival status were recorded. The deadline of follow-up: January 2021. SPSS-24.0 software was employed for statistical analysis.

Results

Among the 435 patients receiving ICI treatment, 61,236 and 138 patients were evaluated respectively as partial response (PR), stable disease (SD) and progressive disease (PD). The overall response rate(ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) of this cohort were 14.0% and 68.3%, respectively. Median progression-free survival (mPFS) is 4.0 months, The overall survival (mOS) of this cohort is 6.8 months. Multivariate analysis showed that SIRI(Hazard Ratio, HR = 1.304, P = 0.014), PNI (HR = 0.771, P = 0.019), prealbumin (PAB) (HR = 0.596, P = 0.001), and PNI(HR = 0.657, P = 0.008) were independent risk factors for PFS and OS, respectively.

Conclusions

Patients with high SIRI value and low PNI value before ICI treatment have shorter PFS. Patients with higher PNI value have better prognosis. Therefore, hematological indicators may become predictors of immunotherapy.
Pulmonary valve infective endocarditis caused by Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Olatidoye Olajide A. , Samat Sajjaad H. , Yin Kanhua , Bates Michael J.
Published: July 2023

Infective endocarditis caused by Mycobacterium abscessus is an uncommon event that, when it does occur, usually requires surgical valve replacement. The pulmonary valve is the least common heart valve involved in infective endocarditis. We present a rare case of isolated pulmonary valve endocarditis with Mycobacterium abscessus in a patient with recurrent sternal infections following repeated coronary artery bypass.
Overcoming challenges in conducting systematic reviews in implementation science: a methods commentary
Authors: Chapman Anna , Rankin Nicole M. , Jongebloed Hannah , Yoong Sze Lin , White Victoria , Livingston Patricia M. , Hutchinson Alison M. , Ugalde Anna
Published: July 2023

Consolidation of the literature using systematic reviews is a critical way to advance a discipline and support evidence-based decision-making in healthcare. However, unique challenges exist that impact the conduct of systematic reviews in implementation science. In this commentary, we reflect on our combined experience to describe five key challenges unique to systematic reviews of primary implementation research. These challenges include (1) descriptors used in implementation science publications, (2) distinction between evidence-based interventions and implementation strategies, (3) assessment of external validity, (4) synthesis of implementation studies with substantial clinical and methodological diversity, and (5) variability in defining implementation ‘success’. We outline possible solutions and highlight resources that can be used by authors of primary implementation research, as well as systematic review and editorial teams, to overcome the identified challenges and optimise the utility of future systematic reviews in implementation science.
Xylanase improves the intestinal barrier function of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed with soybean (Glycine max) meal
Authors: Wang Tong , Zhou Nannan , He Junyi , Hao Zhenzhen , Zhou Chentao , Du Yidi , Du Zhenyu , Su Xiaoyun , Zhang Meiling
Published: July 2023

Background

Soybean (Glycine max) meal is one of the important protein sources for fish, but the non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) in soybean meal impair the intestinal barrier function. Here we aimed to investigate whether xylanase can alleviate the adverse effects on the gut barrier induced by soybean meal in Nile tilapia and to explore the possible mechanism.

Results

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) (4.09 ± 0.02 g) were fed with two diets including SM (soybean meal) and SMC (soybean meal + 3,000 U/kg xylanase) for 8 weeks. We characterized the effects of xylanase on the gut barrier, and the transcriptome analysis was performed to investigate the underlying mechanism. Dietary xylanase improved intestinal morphology and decreased the concentration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in serum. The results of transcriptome and Western blotting showed that dietary xylanase up-regulated the expression level of mucin2 (MUC2) which may be related to the inhibition of protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (perk)/activating transcription factor 4 (atf4) signaling pathways. Microbiome analysis showed that addition of xylanase in soybean meal altered the intestinal microbiota composition and increased the concentration of butyric acid in the gut. Notably, dietary sodium butyrate was supplemented into the soybean meal diet to feed Nile tilapia, and the data verified that sodium butyrate mirrored the beneficial effects of xylanase.

Conclusions

Collectively, supplementation of xylanase in soybean meal altered the intestinal microbiota composition and increased the content of butyric acid which can repress the perk/atf4 signaling pathway and increase the expression of muc2 to enhance the gut barrier function of Nile tilapia. The present study reveals the mechanism by which xylanase improves the intestinal barrier, and it also provides a theoretical basis for the application of xylanase in aquaculture.
Punch-excised explants of bovine mammary gland to model early immune response to infection
Authors: Noleto Pablo Gomes , Gilbert Florence B. , Rossignol Christelle , Cunha Patricia , Germon Pierre , Rainard Pascal , Martins Rodrigo Prado
Published: July 2023

Background

Mammary gland (MG) infections (mastitis) are frequent diseases of dairy cows that affect milk quality, animal welfare and farming profitability. These infections are commonly associated with the bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Different in vitro models have been used to investigate the early response of the MG to bacteria, but the role of the teat in mastitis pathogenesis has received less attention. In this study, we used punch-excised teat tissue as an ex vivo model to study the immune mechanisms that arise early during infection when bacteria have entered the MG.

Results

Cytotoxicity and microscopic analyses showed that bovine teat sinus explants have their morphology and viability preserved after 24 h of culture and respond to ex vivo stimulation with TLR-agonists and bacteria. LPS and E. coli trigger stronger inflammatory response in teat when compared to LTA and S. aureus, leading to a higher production of IL-6 and IL-8, as well as to an up-regulation of proinflammatory genes. We also demonstrated that our ex vivo model can be applied to frozen-stored explants.

Conclusions

In compliance with the 3Rs principle (replacement, reduction and refinement) in animal experimentation, ex vivo explant analyses proved to be a simple and affordable approach to study MG immune response to infection. This model, which better reproduces organ complexity than epithelial cell cultures or tissue slices, lends itself particularly well to studying the early phases of the MG immune response to infection.
Alzheimer’s disease: using gene/protein network machine learning for molecule discovery in olive oil
Authors: Rita Luís , Neumann Natalie R. , Laponogov Ivan , Gonzalez Guadalupe , Veselkov Dennis , Pratico Domenico , Aalizadeh Reza , Thomaidis Nikolaos S. , Thompson David C. , Vasiliou Vasilis , Veselkov Kirill
Published: July 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses a profound human, social, and economic burden. Previous studies suggest that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) may be helpful in preventing cognitive decline. Here, we present a network machine learning method for identifying bioactive phytochemicals in EVOO with the highest potential to impact the protein network linked to the development and progression of the AD. A balanced classification accuracy of 70.3 ± 2.6% was achieved in fivefold cross-validation settings for predicting late-stage experimental drugs targeting AD from other clinically approved drugs. The calibrated machine learning algorithm was then used to predict the likelihood of existing drugs and known EVOO phytochemicals to be similar in action to the drugs impacting AD protein networks. These analyses identified the following ten EVOO phytochemicals with the highest likelihood of being active against AD: quercetin, genistein, luteolin, palmitoleate, stearic acid, apigenin, epicatechin, kaempferol, squalene, and daidzein (in the order from the highest to the lowest likelihood). This in silico study presents a framework that brings together artificial intelligence, analytical chemistry, and omics studies to identify unique therapeutic agents. It provides new insights into how EVOO constituents may help treat or prevent AD and potentially provide a basis for consideration in future clinical studies.
Phenotypic variability to medication management: an update on fragile X syndrome
Authors: Elhawary Nasser A. , AlJahdali Imad A. , Abumansour Iman S. , Azher Zohor A. , Falemban Alaa H. , Madani Wefaq M. , Alosaimi Wafaa , Alghamdi Ghydda , Sindi Ikhlas A.
Published: July 2023

This review discusses the discovery, epidemiology, pathophysiology, genetic etiology, molecular diagnosis, and medication-based management of fragile X syndrome (FXS). It also highlights the syndrome’s variable expressivity and common comorbid and overlapping conditions. FXS is an X-linked dominant disorder associated with a wide spectrum of clinical features, including but not limited to intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, language deficits, macroorchidism, seizures, and anxiety. Its prevalence in the general population is approximately 1 in 5000–7000 men and 1 in 4000–6000 women worldwide. FXS is associated with the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene located at locus Xq27.3 and encodes the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein (FMRP). Most individuals with FXS have an FMR1 allele with > 200 CGG repeats (full mutation) and hypermethylation of the CpG island proximal to the repeats, which silences the gene’s promoter. Some individuals have mosaicism in the size of the CGG repeats or in hypermethylation of the CpG island, both produce some FMRP and give rise to milder cognitive and behavioral deficits than in non-mosaic individuals with FXS. As in several monogenic disorders, modifier genes influence the penetrance of FMR1 mutations and FXS’s variable expressivity by regulating the pathophysiological mechanisms related to the syndrome’s behavioral features. Although there is no cure for FXS, prenatal molecular diagnostic testing is recommended to facilitate early diagnosis. Pharmacologic agents can reduce some behavioral features of FXS, and researchers are investigating whether gene editing can be used to demethylate the FMR1 promoter region to improve patient outcomes. Moreover, clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 and developed nuclease defective Cas9 (dCas9) strategies have promised options of genome editing in gain-of-function mutations to rewrite new genetic information into a specified DNA site, are also being studied.
Regional differences in oceanic migratory behavior of Japanese silver eel in waters with different vertical temperature gradients
Authors: Abe Takaaki K. , Galang Ishmerai , Daryani Ayu , Minamikawa Shingo , Mochioka Noritaka , Hakoyama Hiroshi
Published: July 2023

Background

The Japanese eel Anguilla japonica has a single spawning area on the west coast of the Mariana Islands, and the larvae disperse widely via the North Equatorial Current and the Kuroshio Current to freshwater and coastal areas of East Asia for nursery and growth habitats. Spawning adults reared in their respective habitats begin their migration to spawn from September to February, but little is known about regional differences in migration routes, their contribution to spawning populations, or their migratory behavior. To better understand the spawning migrations of Japanese eels, we tracked adult migratory stage eels (silver eels) captured in coastal areas of three regions (Tokai region, Sea of Japan coastline, and Tohoku region) from October 2019 to February 2020 using pop-up satellite archival tags.

Results

Twenty-three tagged eels were released in each coastal area, and data were collected on 15 eels for a maximum of 59 days. Eels released in the Tokai region migrated southeast along the Kuroshio Current. On the other hand, eels on the Sea of Japan coastline and in the Tohoku region tended to migrate westward and southward against the ocean current, respectively, but no eels from either region reached waters near the Kuroshio Current. In addition, the present study found region-specific vertical movement patterns among the eels. Eels from the Tokai region showed typical diurnal vertical movements, while an eel from the Sea of Japan coastline repeated non-diurnal vertical movements, which was attributed to regional differences in bathymetry and water mass structure. Except for one eel suspected of being preyed upon, all other eels did not venture into depth zones with temperatures below 4 $$^{\circ }\textrm{C}$$

∘

C

, thus suggesting that the maximum depth of vertical movement is limited by water temperature.

Conclusions

This study provided new insights into the migratory behavior of Japanese silver eel from the Sea of Japan coastline and the Tohoku region, but further long-term tracking is required to reveal the fate of the spawning adults from the coast of Japan.
Charting the motivation, self-efficacy beliefs, language learning strategies, and achievement of multilingual university students learning Arabic as a foreign language
Authors: Calafato Raees
Published: July 2023

Research on the relationship between students’ language learning motivation (LLM), language learning strategies (LLS), self-efficacy beliefs (SEB), and achievement in non-European languages has been both limited and overwhelmingly cross-sectional, often with little attention paid to their multilingualism. Combining complex dynamic systems and sociocultural perspectives, this article reports on a study that explored changes in the LLM, LLS, and SEB trajectories of two multilingual students taking Arabic at a university in Norway over two semesters, including how these trajectories, alongside their multilingual competence, related to their achievement in the course. Data were gathered through weekly semi-structured interviews and a rating scale-based log that the participants kept of their LLM and SEB, as well as their exam scores over two semesters. The results indicated that, although their LLS remained fairly consistent or grew more diversified, the participants were not completely successful in maintaining or boosting their LLM, SEB, or achievement. However, the use of more varied digital LLS appeared to prevent their LLM and SEB from further weakening. Moreover, participants’ LLM and SEB trajectories were susceptible to changes based on different timescales in that mesogenetic events had a more pronounced effect on one participant while the other was more sensitive to microgenetic events. Finally, despite both participants being multilingual, they were unable to benefit from their multilingual competence past the first semester, indicating that not all manifestations of multilingual competence are useful over time, especially when such competence does not contain a multilingual morphosyntactic awareness component.
Outcomes and influential factors in functional and dental rehabilitation following microvascular fibula flap reconstruction in the maxillomandibular region: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tahmasebi Elahe , Keykha Elham , Hajisadeghi Samira , Moslemi Hamidreza , Shafiei Shervin , Motamedi Mohammad Hosein Kalantar , Torabizadeh Arman , Tabrizi Reza , Alam Mostafa
Published: July 2023

Background

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the factors influencing and success rates of dental implants for functional and dental rehabilitation following microvascular fibula flap reconstruction in the maxillomandibular region.

Main text

We conducted a comprehensive search of electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane’s CENTRAL, as well as gray literature sources and manual searches of notable journals. The search was performed from inception until February 2023. Studies were included if they examined functional and dental rehabilitation outcomes in patients receiving maxillofacial reconstruction using microvascular fibula flaps and were retrospective or prospective cohort studies involving human subjects. Case–control studies, research involving other reconstruction methods, and animal-based studies were excluded. Data was extracted and confirmed by two independent researchers, and risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Meta-analyses were conducted for dental implant and graft success rate, with separate analyses for different factors affecting the outcome. Heterogeneity was evaluated using Cochran’s Q test and the I2 test. The pooled success rate for implants was 92% and for grafts, 95%, with significant heterogeneity. Implants in fibular grafts had a 2.91 times higher failure rate than those in natural bones. Radiated bone and smoking were identified as factors influencing implant failure, with radiated bone having a 2.29 times higher risk and smokers having a 3.16 times higher risk compared to their respective counterparts. Patient-reported outcomes showed improvements in key areas such as dietary intake, mastication, speech, and esthetics. The success rates declined over time, emphasizing the importance of long-term follow-up.

Conclusions

Dental implants in free fibula grafts generally have favorable success rates, with minimal bone resorption, manageable probing depths, and limited bleeding on probing. Implant success is influenced by factors such as smoking and radiated bone.
Effect of hollow fiber diameter and membrane surface area of polymethyl methacrylate membrane on filter lifetime
Authors: Kurihara Yoshitaka , Kokubo Kenichi , Kobayashi Yuta , Ushiroda Yosuke , Ueki Shunichi , Tsukao Hiroshi , Kobayashi Kozue , Kubota Masaru , Kobayashi Hirosuke
Published: July 2023

Background

When polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) membranes are used in continuous renal replacement therapy, especially in patients with high cytokine levels, inflammatory cytokines and other substances are removed by the adsorption effect. However, such filters are prone to clogging, and the filter lifetime can be short. This study investigated the effects of hollow fiber inner diameter and membrane area on filter lifetime and protein removal performance using an in vitro continuous hemofiltration (CHF) experimental model with porcine blood.

Methods

Three types of filters with different hollow fiber inner diameters and membrane areas were used: CH-1.0N (membrane material, PMMA; membrane area, 1.0 m2; hollow fiber inner diameter, 200 µm), CH-1.0W (prototype: PMMA; 1.0 m2; 240 µm), and CH-1.8W (PMMA; 1.8 m2; 240 µm). During the experiment, pressure changes, filter lifetime measured from pressure and protein removal performance were measured using an in vitro CHF experimental model with porcine blood.

Results

The filter lifetime of CH-1.8W was significantly longer than those of CH-1.0N and CH-1.0W. The total protein adsorption was significantly higher for the CH-1.0W and CH-1.8W filters than for the CH-1.0N filter.

Conclusions

A larger membrane area from 1.0 to 1.8 m2 contributed to a longer filter lifetime, while an increase in the hollow fiber inner diameter from 200 to 240 µm did not. On the other hand, the protein removal performance, especially the adsorption performance, was higher for membranes with a larger hollow fiber inner diameter from 200 to 240 µm.
Distribution network state estimation based on attention-enhanced recurrent neural network pseudo-measurement modeling
Authors: Wang Yaojian , Gu Jie , Yuan Lyuzerui
Published: July 2023

Because there is insufficient measurement data when implementing state estimation in distribution networks, this paper proposes an attention-enhanced recurrent neural network (A-RNN)-based pseudo-measurement modeling metho. First, based on analyzing the power series at the source and load end in the time and frequency domains, a period-dependent extrapolation model is established to characterize the power series in those domains. The complex mapping functions in the model are automatically represented by A-RNNs to obtain an A-RNNs-based period-dependent pseudo-measurement generation model. The distributed dynamic state estimation model of the distribution network is established, and the pseudo-measurement data generated by the model in real time is used as the input of the state estimation model together with the measurement data. The experimental results show that the method proposed can explore in depth the complex sequence characteristics of the measurement data such that the accuracy of the pseudo-measurement data is further improved. The results also show that the state estimation accuracy of a distribution network is very poor when there is a lack of measurement data, but is greatly improved by adding the pseudo-measurement data generated by the model proposed.
Community pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes toward epilepsy and availability of antiepileptic drugs in Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso)
Authors: Dabilgou Alfred Anselme , Ouédraogo Emile , Dravé Alassane , Kyelem Julie Marie Adeline Wendlamita , Savadogo Wendémi Jean-Noël Wendbénédo , Napon Christian , Millogo Athanase , Karfo Kapouni , Kaboré Jean
Published: July 2023

Background

The community pharmacists educate patients and their families concerning the development of adherence to their therapy, and then improving health-related quality of life for those patients. Our study aims to describe the management of epilepsy in pharmaceutical pharmacies in a low income country.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study carried out in the pharmaceutical pharmacies of the city of Ouagadougou during a period of 2 months, from November 15 to December 15, 2020.

Results

Fifty six pharmacists with a mean age of 41 ± 12.73 years were included in the study. Of them, 7.14% received specific training on epilepsy. Respondents with good knowledge about epilepsy were 48.21%. The level of “good knowledge” was significantly higher among respondents who had received specific training in epilepsy and among those with more than 15 years of experience as a dispensary pharmacist. The experience of more than 15 years was the factor significantly associated with a level of good knowledge about epilepsy. Regarding the seizure first aid management, the majority of pharmacists knew the attitudes of seizure first aid management by citing the lateral security position (83.9%). Phenobarbital was the most widely used antiepileptic drug in 96.43%. In 47.17% (n = 53) of pharmacies, demand exceeded supply.

Conclusions

Effort must be put on the supply of antiepileptic drugs and the training of health personnel.
Peripheral visual field defect of vigabatrin in pediatric epilepsy: A review
Authors: Pathan Umme Habeeba A. , Shetty Navapreetha , Anhar Safiya , Mayya Reshma
Published: July 2023

Vigabatrin is the medication used for the treatment of infantile spasms and refractory complex partial seizures, but its usage has always been contradictory due to its effect on vision. This review focuses on the registry, mechanism of injury, animal study, pharmacokinetics, risk factors, efficacy, safety and precautions of vigabatrin. The first visual defect with vigabatrin use was detected in 1997. This led to initiation of many trials including compulsory registration of patients in Sabril registry. The site of toxicity is found to be inner retina where vigabatrin tends to inhibit densely gamma amino butyric acid-C (GABA-C) receptors resulting in intoxication of visual field and also genetic variations held responsible for the injury. The toxicological studies of vigabatrin on various animals reveal different physiology, deficiency of taurine and light can effect on visual field and its related cells. Only thing need to be monitored with use of vigabatrin is visual field because it is well absorbed, with zero protein binding and no necessary dosage adjustment. The effect of vigabatrin is seen to vary with age, duration of therapy, cumulative dose and gender. The efficacy differs in various studies for different forms of epilepsy and so does the safety. Precautions are needed to be followed regarding use of vigabatrin by considering the risk versus benefit ratio for each and every individual and also discussing with the patient’s caregivers. The ultimate goal in treating with vigabatrin for any form of epilepsy is the good clinical response.
Astrocytes’ innate role in neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Ahadiat Seyed-Amirabbas , Hosseinian Zeinab
Published: July 2023

Background

Central nervous system (CNS) astrocytes have various functions in the central nervous system (CNS). Many neurodegenerative diseases are associated with astrocyte dysfunction.

Main body of the abstract

Undoubtedly, astrocytes play a crucial role in neurogenesis and synaptogenesis by controlling the intercellular permeability of the blood–brain barrier and maintaining the homeostasis of the extracellular space. Regarding nerve damage, mature astrocytes are divided into A1 and A2 astrocytes. The supportive patterns of reactive astrocytes can be converted into toxic patterns and eventually lead to the development of neurological diseases. Alterations of neurotransmitters, cell communication, receptors, and signaling pathways, especially in the site of inflammation, secretion of inflammatory factors, secretion of growth factors, protein deposition, ion homeostasis, and finally, changes in the size and number of astrocytes are among the most important pathogenic alterations in astrocytes. Astrocytes also exhibit considerable heterogeneity due to the developmental mechanisms they follow and stimulus-specific cellular responses influenced by CNS location, cell–cell interactions, and other factors.

Short conclusion

In recent years, biomolecular advances have led to a better understanding of astrocyte function, allowing them to be considered a therapeutic target in healthy and diseased individuals. Understanding the interactions between astrocytes and other cells will improve our knowledge of the regulation of astrocyte function in homeostasis and new therapeutic targets in future studies.
Emerging personalized virtual brain models: next-generation resection neurosurgery for drug-resistant epilepsy?
Authors: Wang Qiao , Jin Guangyuan , Yu Tao , Bartolomei Fabrice , Ren Liankun
Published: July 2023

Recently, a novel workflow known as the virtual epileptic patient (VEP) has been proposed by a research team from Aix Marseille Université in their papers published in Lancet Neurology, Science Translational Medicine and Epilepsia. This method involves creating an individualized virtual brain model based on computational modelling, which can facilitate clinical decision-making by estimating the epileptogenic zone and performing the virtual surgery. Here, we summarize brief workflow, strengths, and limitations of VEP, as well as its performance in a retrospective study of 53 patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy who underwent stereoelectroencephalography. A large-scale clinical trial (NCT03643016) is underway to further assess VEP, which is expected to enroll 356 patients prospectively. As supporting evidence accumulates, the clinical application of VEP has the potential to improve clinical practice, leading to better outcomes and qualities of life of patients.
Unlocking the full potential of digital transformation in banking: a bibliometric review and emerging trend
Authors: Osei Lambert Kofi , Cherkasova Yuliya , Oware Kofi Mintah
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Every aspect of life has been affected by digitization, and the use of digital technologies to deliver banking services has increased significantly. The purpose of this study was to give a thorough review and pinpoint the intellectual framework of the field of research of the digital banking transformation (DBT).

Methodology

This study employed bibliometric and network analysis to map a network in a single study, and a total of 268 publications published between 1989 and 2022 were used.

Findings

Our findings demonstrate that the UK, USA, Germany, and China are the countries that have conducted most of the studies on the digital banking transformation. Only China and India are considered emerging economies; everyone else is looking at it from a developed economy perspective. Additional research reveals that papers rated with A* and A grades frequently publish studies on digital banking transformation. Once more, the analysis identifies key theoretical underpinnings, new trends and research directions. The current research trend points toward FinTech, block chain, mobile financial services apps, artificial intelligence, mobile banking service platforms and sustainable business models. The importance of emphasizing the need for additional research in these fields of study cannot be stressed, given the expanding popularity of blockchain technology and digital currency in the literature.

Originality

It appears that this is the first study that examines the theoretical studies of digital banking transformation using bibliometric analysis. The second element of originality is about the multiple dimensions of the impact of technology in the banking sector, which includes customer, company, bank, regulation authority and society.
RESHAPE: Changes in the Prevalence of Eating Disorders Among Children and Young People Between 2017 and 2021; a National Survey
Authors: Baser Aslihan , Ford Tamsin Jane , Delgado Tamsin Newlove , O'Logbon Jessica , Cross Lauren
Published: July 2023

Aims

The last few years have witnessed dramatic increases in presentations of eating disorders to mental health services for children and adults, which could relate to a greater number of people seeking help or to an increase in eating disorders at the population level. Aims: To evaluate the feasibility of online completion of a single module of the compare the Development and Well-Being Assessment (DAWBA) and to estimate the population prevalence of eating disorders among children and young people aged 6 to 19 years in 2017 and 2021, and to estimate the prevalence of eating disorders among emerging adults aged 20 to 23 years in 2021.

Methods

The Mental Health of Children and Young People in England was a cross-sectional survey of a probability sample that recruited 9,117 children and young people in 2017. Follow-up surveys were conducted in 2020, 2021 and 2022. The DAWBA, a multi-informant standardised diagnostic assessment, was completed by parents, teachers and young people aged 11 years or more in 2017. It covered all common mental health conditions, including eating disorders. In 2021 and 2022, parents and young people aged 11 years and over completed the five initial DAWBA screening items to assess eating difficulties as part of the follow-up questionnaire. In 2021, parents and young people who screened positive (n = 1030) were invited to complete the DAWBA eating disorder module online, and a small team of clinical raters reviewed their reports to assign diagnoses according to DSM 5.

Results

There was a year delay in the provision of contact details to contact screen positives, and the response rate was 37% overall, comprising 28% of children aged 11 to 16 years, 23% of young people 17 to 25 years and 19% of parents initially invited. Our results illustrate the large and sustained increase in screen positives between 2017 and the follow-up surveys. We are currently quality-checking the clinical rating for the 2021 data, so we are close to a final prevalence of eating disorders for 2021.

There was an increase in the proportion of children aged 11–16 years with eating difficulties between 2017 (8.4% girls, 5.1 % boys) and 2021 (17.4 % girls, 8.4 % boys), which was maintained in 2021 and 2022 (17. 4% girls, 8.4 % boys). There were similar findings for young people aged 17 to 19 years (60.5% girls, 29.6% boys 2017, 76 % girls, 46% boys 2022)).

Conclusion

Inviting multiple informants provided data on more children and young people although many only had a single report from the person who screen positive. Wave 4 (2023) will integrate the eating disorder module into the original questionnaire to improve response rates. We suspect that the increase in the prevalence of eating disorders will be small despite the large and worrying increase in eating difficulties.