bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Familiarity on Conversation Turns in Dyadic Conversation Among Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Chang Wen-Shin , Tsai Meng-Ju
Published: April 2023

This study explored the effect of mutual familiarity of interlocutors on quantitative contributions of conversation turns in dyadic conversation among Mandarin Chinese-speaking older adults. A quantitative quasi-experimental study was conducted. A total of 42 healthy older adults aged 65 years or over were recruited. Percentages of contributed conversation turns for each interlocutor were computed as frequency of interlocutor conversation turns divided by total frequency of dyad conversation turns multiplied by 100. Quantitative asymmetries were differences of percentages of contributed conversation turns. A total of 60 ten-minute dyadic conversation sessions were conducted, including 30 mutually familiar-older-adult sessions (FOAS) and 30 mutually unfamiliar-older-adult sessions (UOAS). Quantitatively asymmetrical contributions of conversation turns occurred in both FOAS and UOAS, and quantitative contributions of conversation turns in FOAS were significantly more asymmetrical than those in UOAS. There were three limitations to the current study, including limited representations of everyday conversation contexts (e.g., at home); no consideration of the types of conversation modes; and no consideration of sensitivity to conversation as one of the inclusion criteria for research participants. Quantitatively asymmetrical contributions of conversation turns occurred in both mutually FOAS and UOAS dyads among Mandarin Chinese-speaking older adults. Moreover, quantitative contributions of conversation turns in mutually FOAS dyads were significantly more asymmetrical than those in mutually UOAS dyads. Sufficient knowledge of changes in conversation turns in dyadic conversation among healthy older adults might reduce misperceptions of older adults suffering from neurological disease.
Mediating Medical Comorbidities in Geriatric Patients Undergoing Surgery for OVCF: From Preoperative Screening to Risk and Outcomes Optimization
Authors: Scheyerer Max J. , Lenz Max , Jacobs Cornelius , Pumberger Matthias , Spiegl Ulrich J. A. , Ullrich Bernhard W. , von der Höh Nicolas , Schnake Klaus John
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) are a common increasing entity in elderly patients and represent a tremendous economic burden. Surgical treatment is related to high complication rates and little is known about patient-specific and internal risk factors associated with poor clinical results.

Methods

We carried out a comprehensive, systematic literature search according to the PRISMA checklist and algorithm. Risk factors for perioperative complications, for early inpatient readmission, for the duration of the hospital stay, the hospital mortality, the total mortality and the clinical result were analyzed.

Results

A total of 739 potentially usable studies were identified. After considering all inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 studies with 15,515 patients were included. Non-adjustable risk factors were age >90 years (OR 3.27), male gender (OR 1.41), BMI less than 18.5 kg/m2 (OR 3.97), ASA score >3 (OR 2.7), activity of daily live (ADL) (OR 1.52), dependence (OR 5.68), inpatient admission status (OR 3.22), Parkinson disease (OR 3.63) and disseminated cancer (OR 2.98). Adjustable factors were insufficient kidney function (GFR <60 mL/min, and Creatinine Clearance below 60 mg/dl) (OR 4.4), nutrition status (hypalbuminemia (<3.5 g/dl)), liver function (OR 8.9) and further cardiac and pulmonary comorbidities.

Discussion

We identified a couple of non-adjustable risk factors, which should be considered preoperatively in terms of risk assessment. However, even more important were adjustable factors that can be influenced preoperatively. In conclusion, we recommend a perioperative interdisciplinary cooperation, especially with geriatricians, to achieve the best possible clinical results in geriatric patients undergoing surgery for OVCF.
Management of Pathological Thoracolumbar Vertebral Fractures in Patients With Multiple Myeloma: Multidisciplinary Recommendations
Authors: Osterhoff Georg , Kreinest Michael , Kuhnt Thomas , Pohlenz Claudia , Müller-Broich Jacques , Röllig Christoph , Teipel Raphael , Scheyerer Max J. , Schnake Klaus John , Spiegl Ulrich J. A. , Disch Alexander C. ,   the Spine Section of the German Society for Orthopaedics and Trauma (DGOU)
Published: April 2023

Study Design

Mutlidisciplinary consensus recommendations for patients suffering from multiple myeloma (MM) involvement of the spinal column by the Spine Section of the German Association of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeons.

Objective

To provide a comprehensive multidisciplinary diagnostic and therapeutic approach and to summarize the current literature on the management of pathological thoracolumbar vertebral fractures in patients with multiple myeloma.

Methods

Multidisciplinary recommendations using a classical consensus process provided by radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, orthopaedic- and trauma surgeons. A narrative literature review of the current diagnostic and treatment strategies was conducted.

Results

Treatment decision has to be driven by a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, radiotherapists and spine surgeons. When considering surgery in MM patients, differing factors compared to other secondary spinal lesions have to be included into the decision process: probable neurological deterioration, the stage of the disease and prognosis, patient’s general condition, localization and number of the lesions as well as patient’s own wishes or expectations. Aiming to improve quality of life, the major goal of surgical treatment is to preserve mobility by reducing pain, secure neurological function and stability.

Conclusion

The goal of surgery is primarily to improve quality of life by restoring stability and neurological function. Interventions with an increased risk of complications due to MM-associated immunodeficiency must be avoided whenever feasible to allow early systemic treatment. Hence, treatment decisions should be based on a multidisciplinary team that considers patient’s constitution and prognosis.
Workplace Gratitude: Literature Review and Future Directions
Authors: Bala Subramanian R  , Thakur Munish Kumar , Patre Smruti
Published: April 2023

With the increasing significance of gratitude studies at the workplace, the present study aims to lay a roadmap for researchers and practitioners interested in workplace gratitude. It provides an updated overview of gratitude at the workplace (2001–2021) and identifies the critical issues in the available literature. By reviewing the antecedents and consequences of workplace gratitude, the study attempts to answer three questions: to critically evaluate the issues in gratitude measurement, to whom the employees feel grateful in the workplace (target of gratitude), how the employees reciprocate the feeling of gratitude, and which theory best explains the workplace gratitude. The study concludes by offering primary direction for future research in workplace gratitude and recommendation for gratitude measurements.
Determinants of Focused Antenatal Care Utilization Among Women in Simiyu Region Tanzania
Authors: Ngowi Agatha F. , Mkuwa Serafina , Shirima Laura , Ngalesoni Frida , Frumence Gasto
Published: April 2023

Antenatal care (ANC) is a critical period for promoting the health of both mothers and babies. ANC visit is a key entry point for a pregnant woman to the health care system to receive health intervention. The new World Health Organization (WHO) guideline recommends eight ANC contacts. However, the coverage of at least four ANC visits is still low in the Simiyu region.

Objective

To assess determinants of focused ANC visits utilization among women in the Simiyu Region Tanzania.

Methodology

The study employed a cross-sectional study among women of reproductive age. Data was collected through an interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using Stata version 15. Data were summarized using mean and standard deviation for continuous variables while frequency and percentage were used for categorical variables. A generalized linear model, Poisson family, with a log link was used to identify determinants of focused ANC utilization.

Results

All 785 women analyzed reported having at least one ANC visit, with 259 (34%) having four or more visits and only 40 (5.1%) having eight or more visits. Women who made a self-decision were 30% less likely to complete four and more ANC visits than their counterparts (APR = 0.70; 95%CI = 0.501–0.978). Women who visited the dispensary were 27% less likely to complete four ANC visits than those who visited health centers (APR = 0.73; 95%CI = 0.540–0.982). However, education level and planned pregnancy were both marginally significantly associated with focused ANC utilisation.

Conclusion

Generally, the majority of pregnant women in the Simiyu region do not adequately utilize four and more ANC visits. There is a need to enhance health education to women and their spouses on the importance of attending four or more visits and improving the quality of maternal health services to facilitate the utilization of ANC among women in the study area.
Deciphering STAT3 signaling potential in hepatocellular carcinoma: tumorigenesis, treatment resistance, and pharmacological significance
Authors: Hashemi Mehrdad , Sabouni Eisa , Rahmanian Parham , Entezari Maliheh , Mojtabavi Mahsa , Raei Behnaz , Zandieh Mohammad Arad , Behroozaghdam Mitra , Mirzaei Sepideh , Hushmandi Kiavash , Nabavi Noushin , Salimimoghadam Shokooh , Ren Jun , Rashidi Mohsen , Raesi Rasoul , Taheriazam Afshin , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Tan Shing Cheng
Published: April 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered one of the greatest challenges to human life and is the most common form of liver cancer. Treatment of HCC depends on chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and immunotherapy, all of which have their own drawbacks, and patients may develop resistance to these therapies due to the aggressive behavior of HCC cells. New and effective therapies for HCC can be developed by targeting molecular signaling pathways. The expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in human cancer cells changes, and during cancer progression, the expression tends to increase. After induction of STAT3 signaling by growth factors and cytokines, STAT3 is phosphorylated and translocated to the nucleus to regulate cancer progression. The concept of the current review revolves around the expression and phosphorylation status of STAT3 in HCC, and studies show that the expression of STAT3 is high during the progression of HCC. This review addresses the function of STAT3 as an oncogenic factor in HCC, as STAT3 is able to prevent apoptosis and thus promote the progression of HCC. Moreover, STAT3 regulates both survival- and death-inducing autophagy in HCC and promotes cancer metastasis by inducing the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). In addition, upregulation of STAT3 is associated with the occurrence of chemoresistance and radioresistance in HCC. Specifically, non-protein-coding transcripts regulate STAT3 signaling in HCC, and their inhibition by antitumor agents may affect tumor progression. In this review, all these topics are discussed in detail to provide further insight into the role of STAT3 in tumorigenesis, treatment resistance, and pharmacological regulation of HCC.

Graphical Abstract
Aggregation of magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with trans-resveratrol in aqueous solution
Authors: Nguyen Thi-Nga , Tran Quang-Hung , Terki Ferial , Charnay Clarence , Dumail Xavier , Reibel Corine , Cazals Guillaume , Valette Gilles , Jay-Allemand Christian , Bidel Luc P. R.
Published: April 2023

In the framework of a protein–ligand-fishing strategy to identify proteins that bind to trans-resveratrol, a natural phenolic compound with pharmacological benefits, we have developed magnetic nanoparticles covalently linked to trans-resveratrol through three different derivatives and examined their aggregation behavior in aqueous solution. The monodispersed magnetic core (18 nm diameter) with its mesoporous silica shell (93 nm diameter) exhibited a notable superparamagnetic behavior useful for magnetic bioseparation. The hydrodynamic diameter, deduced from dynamic light scattering analysis, of the nanoparticle increased from 100 to 800 nm when the aqueous buffer changed from pH 10.0–3.0. A size polydispersion occurred from pH 7.0–3.0. In parallel, the value of the extinction cross section increased according to a negative power law of the UV wavelength. This was mainly due to light scattering by mesoporous silica, whereas the absorbance cross section remained very low in the 230–400 nm domain. The three types of resveratrol-grafted magnetic nanoparticles exhibited similar scattering properties, but their absorbance spectrum was consistent with the presence of trans-resveratrol. Their functionalization increased their negative zeta potential when pH increased from 3.0 to 10.0. The mesoporous nanoparticles were monodispersed in alkaline conditions, where their anionic surface strongly repulsed each other but aggregated progressively under van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding when negative zeta potential decreased. The characterized results of nanoparticle behavior in aqueous solution provide critical insight for further study of nanoparticles with proteins in biological environment.
Acute hydrocephalus caused by a colloid cyst — a case report
Authors: Melicher Dóra , Gaál Szabolcs , Berényi Tamás , Fenyves Bánk Gábor , Novák Pál Kaposi , Tóth Ambrus , Szegedi László , Varga Csaba
Published: April 2023

Background

Colloid cysts are rare benign, slowly growing intracranial tumors of endodermal origin. Most colloid cysts are found incidentally and are asymptomatic, but rarely, they can lead to sudden death.

Case presentation

A 73-year-old female patient was admitted to our emergency department with complaints of dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, walking difficulties, and behavioral changes. CT imaging revealed acute obstructive hydrocephalus attributable to a third ventricular colloid cyst. The patient was immediately transferred to a tertiary center where she underwent successful neurosurgical resection of the mass. Pathology results of the lesion confirmed the diagnosis of colloid cyst.

Conclusion

The case we present emphasizes the critical importance of prompt identification of warning signs, complex thinking, and evaluation. Establishing the right diagnostic approach early on can facilitate accurate diagnosis.
g-C3N4-based photoresponsive magnetic nanocatalyst drives type-I photodynamic therapy under visible light irradiation, boosting chemo/chemodynamic synergistic therapy of colon cancer
Authors: Khoshtabiat Laya , Meshkini Azadeh , Matin Maryam M.
Published: April 2023

Background

Fenton reaction-based chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is regarded as a highly tumor-specific treatment modality due to its intrinsic tumor microenvironment (TME)-specific targeting properties, such as high amounts of lactic acid and H2O2. To improve the therapeutic efficacy of CDT, in this study, a self-tracking and external stimuli-responsive Fenton nanoreactor was accompanied by type I photodynamic therapy.

Results

A cisplatin-containing H2O2 self-supplying heterogeneous Fenton nanocatalyst (CaO2.CDDP@Fe3O4) was constructed, and it was accompanied by graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheets as a photosensitizer. The hybrid nanocomposite was decorated with ascorbic acid, which improved the tumor-targeting capabilities of the final construct (CCFCA). Besides the generation of hydroxyl radicals (·OH) by metal-based Fenton nanocatalyst (CaO2.CDDP@Fe3O4), g-C3N4-driven nonmetal-based Fenton reaction translated external energy into extremely lethal free radicals within the tumor cells through oxygen-independent type-I PDT. According to 2D and 3D cell culture experiments, CCFCA demonstrated cancer cell selectivity and a high cellular uptake efficiency under a static magnetic field (SMF) and visible light irradiation. Further investigations showed that CCFCA suppressed the antioxidant system and altered the mitochondrial membrane potential and consequently caspase activity, causing apoptosis in cancer cells. The enhanced tumor-inhibitory capability of the nanocomposites was shown by the increased anti-tumor activity of CCFCA in treated mice under SMF and light irradiation as compared to those treated with the free drug. Moreover, no deleterious effects on normal tissues and blood cells were observed in CCFCA-treated mice.

Conclusion

Based on the results obtained, dual Fenton reactions were provided in a simple platform (CCFCA) where the cooperative combination of multiple approaches (chemotherapy, magnetic therapy, and PDT) enhanced CDT efficiency against colon cancer.
Multi-factorial examination of amplicon sequencing workflows from sample preparation to bioinformatic analysis
Authors: De Wolfe Travis J. , Wright Erik S.
Published: April 2023

Background

The development of sequencing technologies to evaluate bacterial microbiota composition has allowed new insights into the importance of microbial ecology. However, the variety of methodologies used among amplicon sequencing workflows leads to uncertainty about best practices as well as reproducibility and replicability among microbiome studies. Using a bacterial mock community composed of 37 soil isolates, we performed a comprehensive methodological evaluation of workflows, each with a different combination of methodological factors spanning sample preparation to bioinformatic analysis to define sources of artifacts that affect coverage, accuracy, and biases in the resulting compositional profiles.

Results

Of the workflows examined, those using the V4-V4 primer set enabled the highest level of concordance between the original mock community and resulting microbiome sequence composition. Use of a high-fidelity polymerase, or a lower-fidelity polymerase with an increased PCR elongation time, limited chimera formation. Bioinformatic pipelines presented a trade-off between the fraction of distinct community members identified (coverage) and fraction of correct sequences (accuracy). DADA2 and QIIME2 assembled V4-V4 reads amplified by Taq polymerase resulted in the highest accuracy (100%) but had a coverage of only 52%. Using mothur to assemble and denoise V4-V4 reads resulted in a coverage of 75%, albeit with marginally lower accuracy (99.5%).

Conclusions

Optimization of microbiome workflows is critical for accuracy and to support reproducibility and replicability among microbiome studies. These considerations will help reveal the guiding principles of microbial ecology and impact the translation of microbiome research to human and environmental health.
Joint modelling of longitudinal processes and time-to-event outcomes in heart failure: systematic review and exemplar examining the relationship between serum digoxin levels and mortality
Authors: Field Ryan J. , Adamson Carly , Jhund Pardeep , Lewsey Jim
Published: April 2023

Background

Joint modelling combines two or more statistical models to reduce bias and increase efficiency. As the use of joint modelling increases it is important to understand how and why it is being applied to heart failure research.

Methods

A systematic review of major medical databases of studies which used joint modelling within heart failure alongside an exemplar; joint modelling repeat measurements of serum digoxin with all-cause mortality using data from the Effect of Digoxin on Mortality and Morbidity in Patients with Heart Failure (DIG) trial.

Results

Overall, 28 studies were included that used joint models, 25 (89%) used data from cohort studies, the remaining 3 (11%) using data from clinical trials. 21 (75%) of the studies used biomarkers and the remaining studies used imaging parameters and functional parameters. The exemplar findings show that a per unit increase of square root serum digoxin is associated with the hazard of all-cause mortality increasing by 1.77 (1.34–2.33) times when adjusting for clinically relevant covariates.

Conclusion

Recently, there has been a rise in publications of joint modelling being applied to heart failure. Where appropriate, joint models should be preferred over traditional models allowing for the inclusion of repeated measures while accounting for the biological nature of biomarkers and measurement error.
Enlightening the association between TNF-α -308 G > A and migraine: a meta-analysis with meta-regression and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Sudershan Amrit , Sudershan Srishty , Younis Mohd , Bhagat Meenakshi , Pushap Agar Chander , Kumar Hardeep , Kumar Parvinder
Published: April 2023

Background

Migraine is a complex neurological disorder that is characterized by a "lower threshold of neuronal hyperexcitability" with distinctive periodicity and complex vascular dysfunction. Genetic factors have impacted incredibly on the susceptibility of migraine and one such example is the TNF-α 308G > A.

Aim

Therefore, we aim to provide a glimpse of the association of the TNF-α 308G > A risk on the susceptibility of migraine.

Method

The pooled odds ratio with the associated 95% of confidence interval were calculated using different genetic models. Heterogeneity was accessed by using Cochran's Q Test and I2 statistics and Begg's and Egger's tests were used for finding the publication bias, tests were two-sided, and a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The Trial Sequential Analysis with Meta-regression Analysis were also utilized to find out the sample size requirement for meta-analysis to avoid type I error and source of heterogeneity respectively.

Result

A total of 13 studies with cases: 7193 and controls: 23,091 were included and after using different genetic models, no overall association with migraine and its clinical subtype migraine with aura was observed (Allele model “OR: 1.28, 95% C.I. [0.96–1.69] and OR: 0.99,95% C.I. [0.69–1.42]) respectively. Interestingly, after sub-grouping using the “ethnicity criteria” in the migraine group, it was observed that the allelic genetic model and the dominant model were found to be significantly associated with the Asian ethnic group (OR: 1.79, 95% C.I. [1.13–2.84], and OR: 1.85, 95% C.I. [1.0927; 3.1580].

Conclusion

In conclusion, the present meta-analysis has provided evidence that 308G > A increases the risk of migraine only in the Asian population.
A rare case of primary gastric Hodgkin lymphoma in an adolescent with Nijmegen breakage syndrome
Authors: Batiuk Elizabeth , Bassett Mikelle , Hakar Melanie , Lin Henry C. , Hunter Anna K.
Published: April 2023

Background

Nijmegen Breakage Syndrome (NBS) is a rare autosomal recessive DNA repair disorder that increases risk of hematological malignancy. Primary gastric malignancies are exceedingly rare in pediatric patients and not typically high on the differential of abdominal pain.

Case presentation

A 14-year-old male with NBS presented with persistent abdominal pain and was diagnosed with primary Hodgkin disease of the stomach.

Conclusions

In pediatric patients with predisposition to malignancies, such as those with underlying chromosome instability disorders, all symptoms must be carefully considered.
Comparative research on the development of college students’ physical fitness based on online physical education during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sun Jun , Chang Jie , Zhu Ergang , Sun Xugui , Tao Yu , Chen Xiaohong
Published: April 2023

Background

There are few studies that focus on the impact of online physical education teaching on college students during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This research focuses on the impact of online physical education among medical school students in China by comparing physical fitness test results for three consecutive years from 2019 to 2021.

Method

This study is a longitudinal survey. The subjects of the experiments were students enrolled in a medical school who completed a physical fitness test for three consecutive years from 2019 to 2021. The student subjects were divided into two groups, namely, male and female. The test indices included body mass index (BMI), vital capacity (VC), 50-metre run, sit-and-reach, standing long jump, pull-up (male), 1000-metre run (male), sit-ups (female) and 800-metre run (female). Repeated measures ANOVA method was used in physical fitness test indices at three consecutive time points ranging from 2019 to 2021. The Greenhouse-Geisser correction was applied when Mauchly’s hypothesis test did not meet the assumption of sphericity, and the Bonferroni method was used for pairwise comparisons.

Results

A total of 3360 students (1490 males and 1870 females) completed physical fitness tests in three consecutive years from 2019 to 2021. The proportion of overweight and obesity in male students was significantly higher than that in female students (28.0% vs. 12.7%). For all subjects, in 2020, the BMI and VC indexes improved, while the 800-/1000-metre running indexes declined. In 2021, all indexes except sit-and-reach increased.

Conclusion

The pairwise comparisons of physical fitness test results from 2019 to 2021 show that online physical education is effective in improving all items except long-distance running. Future research needs to involve a larger and geographically more dispersed sample to further analyse the effectiveness of online physical education.
Behavioral changes of preventive activities of influenza among children in satellite cities of a metropolitan area of Tokyo, Japan, by the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Matsuda Ayako , Asayama Kei , Obara Taku , Yagi Naoto , Ohkubo Takayoshi
Published: April 2023

Objective

In children in a metropolitan area of Tokyo, Japan, behavioral change and influenza infection associated with the frequency of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPI) was assessed from the 2018–2019 season (Preseason) and the 2020–2021 season (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19] season).

Methods

We conducted an exclusive survey among children attending preschool, elementary school, and junior high school in the Toda and Warabi regions, Japan, during the 2018–2019 (Preseason, distributed via mail) and 2020–2021 seasons (COVID-19 season, conducted online). The proportion of preventive activities (hand washing, face mask-wearing, and vaccination) was compared in the Preseason with that of the COVID-19 season. The multivariate logistic regression model was further applied to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for influenza infection associated with NPI frequency (hand washing and face mask wearing) in each Preseason and COVID-19 season.

Results

The proportion of vaccinated children who carried out hand washing and face mask wearing was remarkably higher during the COVID-19 season (48.8%) than in the Preseason (18.2%). A significant influenza infection reduction was observed among children who washed hands and wore face masks simultaneously (AOR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.76–0.99; P = 0.033).

Conclusions

A strong interest and performance in the intensive measures for the prevention of influenza under the COVID-19 pandemic was demonstrated. Positive association was observed from a combination of NPI, hand washing, and face mask-wearing and influenza infection. This study’s findings could help in activities or preventive measures against influenza and other communicable diseases in children.
Face mask recommendations in schools did not impact COVID-19 incidence among 10–12-year-olds in Finland – joinpoint regression analysis
Authors: Juutinen Aapo , Sarvikivi Emmi , Laukkanen-Nevala Päivi , Helve Otto
Published: April 2023

Background

In autumn 2021 in Finland, a recommendation to use face masks was implemented nationwide in schools for pupils ages 12 years and above. While national guidelines were in form of recommendations, cities implemented mandatory masking in schools. Some cities extended this mandate for younger pupils as well. Our aim was to compare COVID-19 incidence among 10–12-year-olds between cities with different recommendations on the use of face masks in schools.

Methods

COVID-19 case numbers, defined as positive laboratory verified SARS-CoV-2 test results, were obtained from the National Infectious Disease Registry (NIDR) of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare. Helsinki, Turku and Tampere were selected for comparison since the baseline COVID-19 incidence in the cities had been similar in August and September 2021. Helsinki and Tampere implemented the national recommendation on face mask use at schools, while Turku extended this to include those 10 years old and above, starting from the beginning of semester in early August. Age groups of 7–9-year-olds, 10–12-year-olds and 30–49-year-olds were included in the statistical analysis and moving averages of 14-day incidences per 100 000 inhabitants were used as a dependent variable. Joinpoint regression was used to estimate average percent changes (APC) and average daily percent changes (ADPC) in the 14-day incidences. Differences in the ADPC values between the cities were compared in one-month periods. We also calculated cumulative incidences from the beginning of August to the end of November in the cities by age group.

Results

In August, the ADPC was highest in Turku (3.9) and lowest in Tampere (2.0), while in September, the ADPC was highest in Turku (-0.3) and lowest in Helsinki (-3.2) among 10–12-year-olds. In October, the ADPC was highest in Helsinki (2.1) and lowest in Turku (-0.2) and in November, the ADPC was highest in Turku (4.1) and lowest in Tampere (-0.5) among 10–12-year-olds. We also calculated cumulative incidences from the beginning of August to the end of November in the cities by age groups of 7–9 years, 10–12 years, and 30–49 years. The cumulative incidence was highest in Turku in all age groups and lowest in Tampere.

Conclusions

According to our analysis, no additional effect was gained from mandating face masks, based on comparisons between the cities and between the age groups of the unvaccinated children (10–12 years versus 7–9 years).
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Screening of feature genes related to immune and inflammatory responses in periodontitis
Authors: Duan Azhu , Zhang Yeming , Yuan Gongjie
Published: April 2023

Background

Immune and inflammatory responses are important in the occurrence and development of periodontitis. The aim of this study was to screen for immune-related genes and construct a disease diagnostic model to further investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of periodontitis.

Methods

GSE16134 and GSE10334 datasets were used in this study. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the periodontitis and control groups were selected. Immune-related genes were identified, and functional analysis and construction of an interaction network were conducted. Immune characteristics were evaluated using gene set variation analysis GSVA. Immunity-related modules were analyzed using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). The LASSO algorithm was applied to optimize the module genes. Correlation between optimized immune-related DEGs and immune cells was analyzed.

Results

A total of 324 immune-related DEGs enriched in immune- and inflammation-related functions and pathways were identified. Of which, 23 immune cells were significantly different between the periodontitis and control groups. Nine optimal immune-related genes were selected using the WGCNA and LASSO algorithms to construct a diagnostic model. Except for CXCL1, the other eight genes were significantly positively correlated with regulatory T cells, immature B cells, activated B cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells.

Conclusion

This study identified nine immune-related genes and developed a diagnostic model for periodontitis.
Panax quinquefolius saponin inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell calcification via activation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2
Authors: Lu Xiaoting , Liu Xue , Liang Ershun , Yang Ruixue , Liu Yan , Liu Xiaoqiong , Yan Fangfang , Xing Yifan
Published: April 2023

Background

Panax quinquefolius saponin (PQS) is the main active component of Panax quinquefolius. Emerging evidence suggests that PQS exerts beneficial effects against cardiovascular diseases. However, the role and mechanism of PQS in vascular calcification are not unclear. The present study investigated the effects of PQS on the calcification of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMCs).

Methods

The present study used calcification medium containing 3 mM inorganic phosphate (Pi) to induce rat VSMCs calcification. We investigated the effects of PQS on VSMCs calcification using alizarin red staining and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assays. The intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) were determined. The mRNA and protein expression levels of Nrf2, the antioxidant gene heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), osteogenic markers, including runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) were also measured.

Results

Treatment with Pi significantly increased intracellular calcium deposition and ALP activity, which were suppressed by PQS in a concentration-dependent manner. During VSMCs calcification, PQS inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of Runx2 and BMP2. PQS treatment reduced intracellular ROS production and significantly upregulated Nrf2 transcriptional activity and the expression of Nrf2 and its target antioxidant gene HO-1. PQS suppressed the Pi-induced protein expression of Keap1, which is an endogenous inhibitor of Nrf2. Keap1 siRNA treatment induced Nrf2 expression and downregulated Runx2 expression in the presence of Pi and PQS.

Conclusion

Taken together, these findings suggest that PQS could effectively inhibit VSMCs calcification by ameliorating oxidative stress and regulating osteogenic genes via the promotion of Nrf2 expression.
Machine learning to predict virological failure among HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy in the University of Gondar Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital, in Amhara Region, Ethiopia, 2022
Authors: Mamo Daniel Niguse , Yilma Tesfahun Melese , Tewelgne Makda Fekadie , Sebastian Yakub , Bizuayehu Tilahun , Melaku Mequannent Sharew , Walle Agmasie Damtew
Published: April 2023

Background

Treatment with effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces viral load as well as HIV-related morbidity and mortality in HIV-positive patients. Despite the expanded availability of antiretroviral therapy around the world, virological failure remains a serious problem for HIV-positive patients. Thus, Machine learning predictive algorithms have the potential to improve the quality of care and predict the needs of HIV patients by analyzing huge amounts of data, and enhancing prediction capabilities. This study used different machine learning classification algorithms to predict the features that cause virological failure in HIV-positive patients.

Method

An institution-based secondary data was used to conduct patients who were on antiretroviral therapy at the University of Gondar Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital from January 2020 to May 2022. Patients’ data were extracted from the electronic database using a structured checklist and imported into Python version three software for data pre-processing and analysis. Then, seven supervised classification machine-learning algorithms for model development were trained. The performances of the predictive models were evaluated using accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, f1-score, and AUC. Association rule mining was used to generate the best rule for the association between independent features and the target feature.

Result

Out of 5264 study participants, 1893 (35.06%) males and 3371 (64.04%) females were included. The random forest classifier (sensitivity = 1.00, precision = 0.987, f1-score = 0.993, AUC = 0.9989) outperformed in predicting virological failure among all selected classifiers. Random forest feature importance and association rules identified the top eight predictors (Male, younger age, longer duration on ART, not taking CPT, not taking TPT, secondary educational status, TDF-3TC-EFV, and low CD4 counts) of virological failure based on the importance ranking, and the CD-4 count was recognized as the most important predictor feature.

Conclusion

The random forest classifier outperformed in predicting and identifying the relevant predictors of virological failure. The results of this study could be very helpful to health professionals in determining the optimal virological outcome.
Current status and influencing factors of spiritual needs of patients with advanced cancer: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Shi Xin , Wang Fengxia , Xue Lixin , Gan Zhaohong , Wang Yan , Wang Qian , Luan Xiaorong
Published: April 2023

Background

Spiritual needs have been associated with better physical health outcomes and provide a context for patients to gain hope and significance in coping with disease. This study aimed to understand the status of spiritual needs of patients with advanced cancer and conducted a quantitative study on the relationship between patient-reported physical, psychological, and social influencing factors and spiritual needs based on a biopsychosocial-spiritual model.

Methods

In this study, 200 oncology inpatients from Shandong Province were recruited using a convenience sampling method to conduct a cross-sectional survey using general data from December 2020 to June 2022. Correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between spiritual needs and cancer-related fatigue, anxiety and depression, the family care index, and social support. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the relationship between spiritual needs and the influencing factors.

Results

The spiritual needs score of the patients with advanced cancer was high. Multiple regression analysis revealed that cancer-related fatigue, social support, and religious beliefs influenced the spiritual needs of patients with advanced cancer. Compared with married patients, widowed or divorced patients scored 8.531 points higher on spiritual needs. Cancer-related fatigue, social support, religious beliefs, and marital status (divorced or widowed) explained 21.4% of the total variation in the spiritual needs of patients with advanced cancer.

Conclusion

The spiritual needs of patients with advanced cancer were significantly correlated with cancer-related fatigue, depression, social support, and other factors. Religious beliefs, marital status, cancer-related fatigue, and social support were the main factors influencing the spiritual needs of patients with advanced cancer. This is a quantitative study, and medical staff can provide targeted spiritual care for patients with cancer based on the above influencing factors.
Biosynthesis, characterization and optimization of TiO2 nanoparticles by novel marine halophilic Halomonas sp. RAM2: application of natural dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Metwally Rasha A. , El Nady Jehan , Ebrahim Shaker , El Sikaily Amany , El-Sersy Nermeen A. , Sabry Soraya A. , Ghozlan Hanan A.
Published: April 2023

Background

Metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are becoming valuable due to their novel applications. The green synthesis of TiO2 NPs is more popular as a flexible and eco-friendly method compared to traditional chemical synthesis methods. TiO2 NPs are the most commonly used semiconductor in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).

Results

The biogenic TiO2 NPs were produced extracellularly by the marine halophilic bacterium Halomonas sp. RAM2. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the biosynthesis process, resulting in a starting TiO2 concentration of 0.031 M and a pH of 5 for 92 min (⁓15 nm). TiO2 NPs were well-characterized after the calcination process at different temperatures of 500, 600, 700 and 800 °C. Anatase TiO2 NPs (calcined at 500 °C) with a smaller surface area and a wider bandgap were nominated for use in natural dye-sensitized solar cells (NDSSCs). The natural dye used as a photosensitizer is a mixture of three carotenoids extracted from the marine bacterium Kocuria sp. RAM1. NDSSCs were evaluated under standard illumination. After optimization of the counter electrode, NDSSCBio(10) (10 layers) demonstrated the highest photoelectric conversion efficiency (η) of 0.44%, which was almost as good as NDSSCP25 (0.55%).

Conclusion

The obtained results confirmed the successful green synthesis of TiO2 NPs and suggested a novel use in combination with bacterial carotenoids in DSSC fabrication, which represents an initial step for further efficiency enhancement studies.
Healthcare cost and race: analysis of young women with stroke
Authors: Jacobs Molly , Ellis Charles
Published: April 2023

Background

Over the last decade, the prevalence of young stroke has increased 40% particularly among vulnerable populations. These strokes are often more severe with worse outcomes. However, few studies have examined the impact on annual healthcare costs.

Methods

Data from the 2008 to 2018 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) was used to identify a sample of female stroke survivors aged 18 and 60. MEPS includes demographics, health status, healthcare use, and expenditures for all participants providing the largest nationally representative data source of healthcare costs in the US. First, differences in racial and ethnic healthcare expenditure among young women with stroke were evaluated controlling for insurance type and demographic characteristics. Second, the relationship between healthcare expenditure and 1) time post stroke, 2) comorbidities, 3) healthcare utilization, and 4) post-stroke functional status was assessed. Finally, differential healthcare quality was tested as a potential mitigating differential.

Results

Young Black women with stroke spend roughly 20% more on healthcare than White women after controlling for insurance, time post-stroke, healthcare utilization, and demographic differences. Costs remain 17% higher after controlling for comorbidities. Differences in expenditure are larger if survivors have diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol (78%, 24%, and 28%, respectively). Higher expenditure could not be explained by higher healthcare utilization, but lower quality of healthcare may explain part of the differential.

Conclusion

Young Black women with stroke have 20% greater healthcare expenditure than other groups. Cost differentials cannot be explained by differentials in comorbidities, utilization, time post stroke, or functionality. Additional research is needed to explain these differences.
Tumor Area Positivity (TAP) score of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1): a novel visual estimation method for combined tumor cell and immune cell scoring
Authors: Liu Chunyan , Fang Fang , Kong Ying , ElGabry Ehab A.
Published: April 2023

Background

Determination of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) protein expression level in tumor cells and tumor-associated immune cells is critical for identifying patients eligible for immunotherapy. PD-L1 manual scoring algorithms can generally be divided into two categories: cell counting and visual estimation. Cell counting can be time-consuming and is not in sync with pathology practice, which classically uses a Gestalt approach based on pattern recognition and visual estimation. In this study, we introduce the Tumor Area Positivity (TAP) score, which is a novel, straightforward method for scoring tumor cells and immune cells together using visual estimation.

Methods

To demonstrate the reproducibility of TAP scoring among pathologists, between- and within-reader precision studies were performed both within (internal) and outside of (external) our organization. We also compared the TAP score to the Combined Positive Score (CPS), which is based on cell counting, for concordance and time efficacy.

Results

The average positive agreement, average negative agreement, and overall percent agreement between and within readers were all above 85% for both internal and combined external reader precision studies. TAP score had high concordance rate at 1% and 5% cutoff compared with CPS at cutoff 1: positive percent agreement, negative percent agreement, and overall percent agreement were all above 85%.

Conclusions

Our study showed the TAP scoring method to be straightforward, significantly less time-consuming, and highly reproducible with a high concordance rate between TAP score and CPS.
The tendon unit: biochemical, biomechanical, hormonal influences
Authors: Maffulli Nicola , Cuozzo Francesco , Migliorini Filippo , Oliva Francesco
Published: April 2023

The current literature has mainly focused on the biology of tendons and on the characterization of the biological properties of tenocytes and tenoblasts. It is still not understood how these cells can work together in homeostatic equilibrium. We put forward the concept of the “tendon unit” as a morpho-functional unit that can be influenced by a variety of external stimuli such as mechanical stimuli, hormonal influence, or pathological states. We describe how this unit can modify itself to respond to such stimuli. We evidence the capability of the tendon unit of healing itself through the production of collagen following different mechanical stimuli and hypothesize that restoration of the homeostatic balance of the tendon unit should be a therapeutic target.
Phytogalactolipids activate humoral immunity against colorectal cancer
Authors: Lin Han-Huei , Wu Yi-Shin , Jian Ting-Yan , Liao Jia-Yun , Chang Meng-Ting , Shyur Lie-Fen , Lin Yu-Ling
Published: April 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most lethal cancer in the world, and its incidence is steadily rising. In this study, we investigated the induction of humoral immunity by a phytogalactolipid enriched fraction (CRA) derived from the medicinal plant Crassocephalum rabens (Benth.) S. Moore to combat CRC.

Methods

Immunocompetent BALB/c mice were used to evaluate CRA's therapeutic effects in CRC. The phenotypes of B cell subsets in splenocytes and tumors from the CRA-treated mice were isolated and analyzed by flow cytometry. The titers, isotypes, specificity, antigen recognition, and cytotoxic activity of CRA-induced anti-tumor antibodies were determined. The mechanisms of CRA on B cell differentiation were determined by cell-based analyses, including co-cultural with T cells, cytokine analysis, gene expression by qPCR, and protein expression by western blotting.

Results

CRA efficiently inhibited tumor growth in colorectal tumor-bearing allograft mice. CRA treatment attracted an abundance of B cells into the tumor consequently enhancing the anti-tumor antibodies in sera and inducing a class-switch. CRA-induced antisera (designated CRA antisera) specifically recognized surface antigens on the plasma membrane of cancer cells. CRA antisera induced cytotoxicity including antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity, phagocytosis, and complement-dependent cytotoxicity. CRA interacted with IL-6 receptor to activate STAT3 and cMaf, resulting in T cell secretion of IL-21, which, in turn induced B cell differentiation through the IL-21R/STAT3/Blimp-1 pathway.

Conclusions

CRA regulated T cell activity resulting in B cell activation and triggering of anti-tumor antibodies to impede CRC progression.