bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The edutainment program on knowledge, perception, and uptake of cervical cancer screening among Muslim women in Southern Thailand: a quasi experimental study
Authors: Weschasat Tassanapan , Wetchasat Nuttawut , Chuemchit Montakarn
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cervical cancer is a significant global health concern and is the third most common cancer in women. Owing to their religious beliefs, Muslim women in Thailand are less likely to be screened for cervical cancer.

Objective

This study aimed to explore how a Health Belief Model (HBM) (HBM = Health Belief Model)-Based Edutainment Program affects the knowledge, perception, and uptake of cervical cancer screening among Muslim women in Thailand.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study was conducted in two rural districts of Southern Thailand with 83 Muslim women (intervention = 42, control = 41). The assessment was conducted through face-to-face interviews at baseline, post-intervention, and at 3-month follow-up. The intervention included four sessions involving video clips, folk songs, and short films. Data analysis was performed using repeated-measures ANOVA (ANOVA = Analysis of Variance) at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

There were significant differences in the mean score of knowledge and perception between the intervention and control groups post-intervention and at 3-month follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean scores of knowledge and perception in the intervention group significantly increased post-intervention and at 3-month follow-up (p < 0.001). The uptake of cervical cancer screening tests in the intervention group was approximately twice as high as that in the control group (90.47% vs. 51.21%).

Conclusion

The findings revealed that the Edutainment Program could improve the knowledge, perception, and uptake of cervical cancer screening among Muslim women in Thailand. In future studies, the intervention suggests testing different population groups to improve access to primary care for everyone.
Prevalence of anxiety symptoms in infertile men: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Simbar Masoumeh , Ghasemi Vida , Taherian Reza , Kalhor Mehri , Mohammadian Fateme , Kiani Zahra
Published: July 2024

Background

Infertility in men causes problems in various aspects of their lives, including personal, family and social life. One of the most important of these problems is anxiety. Anxiety in infertile men can affect their health, quality of life, and response to treatment, highlighting the significance of anxiety in these men. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the prevalence of anxiety symptoms in infertile men.

Methods

To conduct this review study, two researchers independently searched international databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of sciences, Scopus, PsyINFO, and the Google scholar search engine in English without considering any time limit until January 2, 2024. Keywords such as "anxiety," "infertility," "prevalence," and "epidemiology" were used, taking into account the specific search method of each database. Using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS), the quality of the articles was evaluated by two researchers independently.

Results

In the systematic part of the study, 27 studies were included, and given the variety of measurement tools (8 different tools) used to investigate anxiety symptoms in infertile men, 24 studies were analyzed in five subgroups of tools. The pooled prevalence of anxiety symptoms in infertile men was 21.37% (95% CI: 15.73–27.02). The lowest and highest prevalence of anxiety in infertile men were related to the Beck anxiety inventory (BAI) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS), accounting for 7.08% (95% CI: 3.27–10.90) and 34.90% (95%CI: 28.90–40.90) values respectively. This prevalence was 19.80% (95%CI: 9.01–30.59) for the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), 30.06% (95%CI: 18.59–41.52) for the Spielberger Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-T), and 18.52% (95%CI: 7.76–29.29) for the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS).

Conclusion

The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that the prevalence of anxiety symptoms in infertile men requires special attention to healthcare planning. The healthcare system of different countries should evaluate the symptoms of anxiety in infertile men and take appropriate measures to reduce them according to the culture of the countries. It is recommended that all infertile couples be assessed for anxiety symptoms using a standardized tool during their initial evaluation.
Beyond the diagnosis of drug-resistant Tuberculosis in Norway: patients’ experiences before, during and after treatment
Authors: Storvig Eline , Harstad Ingunn , Ehrnström Birgitta , Iversen Valentina C.
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aims to explore the varied experiences of patients with drug-resistant tuberculosis in Norway. The study emphasizes challenges and implications of being diagnosed with drug-resistant tuberculosis, including the impact on psychosocial health during the diagnosis, disease, treatment, isolation and recovery phases.

Norway is a low endemic country of tuberculosis. Most patients are immigrants, and some of them have recently arrived in the country. Patients undergoing treatment for drug-resistant tuberculosis endure prolonged and demanding treatment that could affect their psychosocial health.

Methods

This qualitative study conducted 16 in-depth interviews with individuals aged 18 years and above who were diagnosed with drug-resistant tuberculosis. All participants completed the treatment between 2008 and 2020. Fourteen participants were immigrants, and eight of them had resided in Norway for less than four years before diagnosis. Data analysis followed the six-phase reflexive thematic analysis framework, focusing on identifying patterns in participants’ experiences, thoughts, expectations and attitudes.

Results

The narratives of the participants highlighted the complexities of navigating the diagnosis of drug-resistant tuberculosis, treatment, side effects and life after treatment. Immigrants encountered additional challenges, including language barriers and adapting to new social environments. All participants reported experiencing physical health issues that additionally affected their mental health and social activity. Several participants had a delayed or prolonged diagnosis that complicated their disease trajectory. Participants with suspected or confirmed contagious pulmonary tuberculosis underwent hospital isolation for periods ranging from weeks to six months. The participants reported mental health issues, social isolation and stigma, however few were offered follow-up by a psychologist. Many participants had persistent problems at the time of the interviews. Three main themes emerged from the analysis: Delayed and prolonged diagnosis; Psychosocial impact of isolation during treatment; The life after tuberculosis.

Conclusion

This study highlights the enduring impact of drug-resistant tuberculosis on patients and the significance of timely diagnosis, psychosocial support and post-treatment follow-up. The participants universally faced serious implications of the disease, including stigma and isolation. Participants who experienced delayed diagnosis, reflected on missed early intervention opportunities. We recommend further research in low endemic countries to evaluate the international and local recommendations on psychosocial support.
Cost–utility analysis of a palliative care program in Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez-Campos Luisa , Andres Rodriguez-Lesmes Paul , Palomino Cancino Analhi , del Valle Díaz Iris , Fernando Gamboa Luis , Castillo Niuman Andrea , Sebastián Salas Juan , Sarmiento Gabriela , Martínez-Bernal Jorge , González-Vélez Abel E.
Published: July 2024

Background

The economic assessment of health care models in palliative care promotes their global development. The purpose of the study is to assess the cost-effectiveness of a palliative care program (named Contigo) with that of conventional care from the perspective of a health benefit plan administrator company, Sanitas, in Colombia.

Methods

The incremental cost-utility ratio (ICUR) and the incremental net monetary benefit (INMB) were estimated using micro-costing in a retrospective, analytical cross-sectional study on the care of terminally ill patients enrolled in a palliative care program. A 6-month time horizon prior to death was used. The EQ-5D-3 L questionnaire (EQ-5D-3 L) and the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire (MQOL) were used to measure the quality of life.

Results

The study included 43 patients managed within the program and 16 patients who received conventional medical management. The program was less expensive than the conventional practice (difference of 1,924.35 US dollars (USD), P = 0.18). When compared to the last 15 days, there is a higher perception of quality of life, which yielded 0.25 in the EQ-5D-3 L (p < 0.01) and 1.55 in the MQOL (P < 0.01). The ICUR was negative and the INMB was positive.

Conclusion

Because the Contigo program reduces costs while improving quality of life, it is considered to be net cost-saving and a model with value in health care. Greater availability of palliative care programs, such as Contigo, in Colombia can help reduce existing gaps in access to universal palliative care health coverage, resulting in more cost-effective care.
Emergence of genetic diversity and multi-drug resistant Clostridium perfringens from wild birds
Authors: Song Xinglong , Zhong Zhenyu , Bai Jiade , Pu Tianchun , Wang Xuehan , He Hongxuan , Chen Yaqian , Yang Congshan , Zhang Qingxun
Published: July 2024

Background

Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) is an important zoonotic microorganism that can cause animal and human infections, however information about the prevalence status in wild birds of this pathogenic bacterium is currently limited.

Result

In this study, 57 strains of C. perfringens were isolated from 328 fecal samples of wild birds. All the isolates were identified as type A and 70.18% of the isolates carried the cpb2 gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed that and 22.80% of the isolates were classified as multidrug-resistant strains. The MLST analysis of the 57 isolates from wild birds was categorized into 55 different sequence types (STs) and clustered into eight clonal complexes (CCs) with an average of 20.1 alleles and the Simpson Diversity index (Ds) of 0.9812, and revealed a high level of genetic diversity within the C. perfringens populations. Interestingly, the isolates from swan goose were clustered in the same CC while isolates from other bird species were more scattered suggesting that a potential difference in genetic diversity among the C. perfringens populations associated with different bird species.

Conclusion

C. perfringens exhibits a wide range of host adaptations, varying degrees of antimicrobial resistance, and a high degree of genetic diversity in wild birds. Understanding the prevalence, toxin type, antimicrobial resistance, and genetic diversity of C. perfringens in wildlife populations is essential for developing effective strategies for disease control and management.
Mapping a sustainable approach: biosynthesis of lactobacilli-silver nanocomposites using whey-based medium for antimicrobial and bioactivity applications
Authors: El.Fadly E. B. , Salah A. S. , Abdella B. , Al Ali A. , AlShmrany H. , ElBaz A. M. , Abdelatty N. S. , Khamis E. F. , Maagouz O. F. , Salamah M. A. , Saleh M. N. , Sakr H. K. , El-Kemary M. A.
Published: July 2024

This study explores a sustainable approach for synthesizing silver nanocomposites (AgNCs) with enhanced antimicrobial and bioactivity using safe Lactobacillus strains and a whey-based medium (WBM). WBM effectively supported the growth of Lactobacillus delbrueckii and Lactobacillus acidophilus, triggering a stress response that led to AgNCs formation. The synthesized AgNCs were characterized using advanced spectroscopic and imaging techniques such as UV‒visible, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, transmission electron (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM–Edx). Lb acidophilus-synthesized AgNCs in WBM (had DLS size average 817.2–974.3 ± PDI = 0.441 nm with an average of metal core size 13.32 ± 3.55 nm) exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria such as Escherichia coli (16.47 ± 2.19 nm), Bacillus cereus (15.31 ± 0.43 nm), Clostridium perfringens (25.95 ± 0.03 mm), Enterococcus faecalis (32.34 ± 0.07 mm), Listeria monocytogenes (23.33 ± 0.05 mm), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (13.20 ± 1.76 mm), and filamentous fungi such as Aspergillus brasiliensis (33.46 ± 0.01 mm). In addition, Lb acidophilus-synthesized AgNCs in WBM exhibit remarkable free radical scavenging abilities, suggesting their potential as bioavailable antioxidants. These findings highlight the dual functionality of these biogenic AgNCs, making them promising candidates for applications in both medicine and nutrition.

Graphical Abstract
CCDC88C, an O-GalNAc glycosylation substrate of GALNT6, drives breast cancer metastasis by promoting c-JUN-mediated CEMIP transcription
Authors: Deng Boya , Zhang Siyang , Zhou Yingying , Sun Ting , Zhu Ying , Fei Jing , Li Ailin , Miao Yuan
Published: July 2024

Coiled-coil domain containing 88C (CCDC88C) is a component of non-canonical Wnt signaling, and its dysregulation causes colorectal cancer metastasis. Dysregulated expression of CCDC88C was observed in lymph node metastatic tumor tissues of breast cancer. However, the role of CCDC88C in breast cancer metastasis remains unclear. To address this, the stable BT549 and SKBR3 cell lines with CCDC88C overexpression or knockdown were developed. Loss/gain-of-function experiments suggested that CCDC88C drove breast cancer cell motility in vitro and lung and liver metastasis in vivo. We found that CCDC88C led to c-JUN-induced transcription activation. Overlapping genes were identified from the genes modulated by CCDC88C and c-JUN. CEMIP, one of these overlapping genes, has been confirmed to confer breast cancer metastasis. We found that CCDC88C regulated CEMIP mRNA levels via c-JUN and it exerted pro-metastatic capabilities in a CEMIP-dependent manner. Moreover, we identified the CCDC88C as a substrate of polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 6 (GALNT6). GALNT6 was positively correlated with CCDC88C protein abundance in the normal breast and breast cancer tissues, indicating that GALNT6 might be associated with expression patterns of CCDC88C in breast cancer. Our data demonstrated that GALNT6 maintained CCDC88C stability by promoting its O-linked glycosylation, and the modification was critical for the pro-metastatic potential of CCDC88C. CCDC88C also could mediate the pro-metastatic potential of GALNT6 in breast cancer. Collectively, our findings uncover that CCDC88C may increase the risk of breast cancer metastasis and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Efficacy and safety of chloroquine plus primaquine for the treatment of Plasmodium vivax malaria in Hamusit site, Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Gebrie Habtamu , Yimer Mulat , Ayehu Animen , Mohammed Hussien , Hailgiorgis Henok , Wuletaw Yonas , Hailu Mesay , Tolera Getachew , Tasew Geremew , Kassa Mogess , Gidey Bokretsion
Published: July 2024

Background

Plasmodium vivax malaria is still an important public health problem in Ethiopia. Unlike Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax has a dormant liver stage (hypnozoite) that can be a risk of recurrent vivax malaria unless treated by radical cure with primaquine. Drug resistance to chloroquine is threatening malaria control and elimination efforts. This study assessed the therapeutic efficacy and safety of chloroquine plus 14 days of primaquine on P. vivax infection based on parasitological, clinical, and haematological parameters.

Methods

A single-arm in vivo prospective therapeutic efficacy study was conducted to assess the clinical and parasitological response to the first-line treatment of P. vivax in Ethiopia, chloroquine plus 14 days low dose of (0.25 mg/kg/day) primaquine between December 2022 and March 2023 at Hamusit Health Centre using the standard World Health Organization (WHO) protocol. A total of 100 study participants with P. vivax mono-infection who were over 6 months old were enrolled and monitored for adequate clinical and parasitological responses for 42 days. The WHO double-entry Excel sheet and SPSS v.25 software were used for Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, and a paired t-test was used for analysis of haemoglobin improvements between follow up days.

Results

A total of 100 patients were enrolled among those, 96% cases were rural residents, 93% had previous malaria exposure, and predominant age group was 5–15 years (61%). 92.6% (95% CI 85.1–96.4%) of enrolled patients were adequate clinical and parasitological response, and 7.4% (95% CI 3.6–14.9%) recurrences were observed among treated patients. The fever and parasite clearance rate on day 3 were 98% and 94%, respectively. The baseline haemoglobin levels improved significantly compared to those days 14 and 42 (p < 0.001). No serious adverse event was observed during the study period.

Conclusions

In this study, co-administration of chloroquine with primaquine was efficacious and well-tolerated with fast resolution of fever and high parasites clearance rate. However, the 7.4% failure is reported is alarming that warrant further monitoring of the therapeutic efficacy study of P. vivax.
Targeted axillary dissection reduces residual nodal disease in clinically node- positive breast cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Cabıoğlu Neslihan , Karanlık Hasan , Yılmaz Ravza , Emiroğlu Selman , Tükenmez Mustafa , Bademler Süleyman , Şimşek Duygu Has , Kantarcı Tarık Recep , Yirgin İnci Kızıldağ , Bayram Aysel , Dursun Memduh
Published: July 2024

Background

Any advantage of performing targeted axillary dissection (TAD) compared to sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy (﻿SLNB) is under debate in clinically node-positive (cN+) patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Our objective was to assess the feasibility of the removal of the clipped node (RCN) with TAD or without imaging-guided localisation by SLNB to reduce the residual axillary disease in completion axillary lymph node dissection (cALND) in cN+ breast cancer.

Methods

A combined analysis of two prospective cohorts, including 253 patients who underwent SLNB with/without TAD and with/without ALND following NAC, was performed. Finally, 222 patients (cT1-3N1/ycN0M0) with a clipped lymph node that was radiologically visible were analyzed.

Results

Overall, the clipped node was successfully identified in 246 patients (97.2%) by imaging. Of 222 patients, the clipped lymph nodes were non-SLNs in 44 patients (19.8%). Of patients in cohort B (n=129) with TAD, the clipped node was successfully removed by preoperative image-guided localisation, or the clipped lymph node was removed as the SLN as detected on preoperative SPECT-CT. Among patients with ypSLN(+) (n=109), no significant difference was found in non-SLN positivity at cALND between patients with TAD and RCN (41.7% vs. 46.9%, p=0.581). In the subgroup with TAD with axillary lymph node dissection (ALND; n=60), however, patients with a lymph node (LN) ratio (LNR) less than 50% and one metastatic LN in the TAD specimen were found to have significantly decreased non-SLN positivity compared to others (27.6% vs. 54.8%, p=0.032, and 22.2% vs. 50%, p=0.046).

Conclusions

TAD by imaging-guided localisation is feasible with excellent identification rates of the clipped node. This approach has also been found to reduce the additional non-SLN positivity rate to encourage omitting ALND in patients with a low metastatic burden undergoing TAD.
Effects of a blood-free mosquito diet on fitness and gonotrophic cycle parameters of laboratory reared Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto
Authors: Mosi Faith Allan , Rutha Isaack , Velez Rita , Swai Johnson Kyeba , Mlacha Yeromin P. , Marques Joana , Silveira Henrique , Tarimo Brian B.
Published: July 2024

Background

The current rise of new innovative tools for mosquito control, such as the release of transgenic mosquitoes carrying a dominant lethal gene and Wolbachia-based strategies, necessitates a massive production of mosquitoes in the insectary. However, currently laboratory rearing depends on vertebrate blood for egg production and maintenance. This practice raises ethical concerns, incurs logistical and cost limitations, and entails potential risk associated with pathogen transmission and blood storage. Consequently, an artificial blood-free diet emerges as a desirable alternative to address these challenges. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a previously formulated artificial blood-free diet (herein referred to as BLOODless) on Anopheles gambiae (An. gambiae s.s.; IFAKARA) gonotrophic parameters and fitness compared with bovine blood.

Methods

The study was a laboratory-based comparative evaluation of the fitness, fecundity and fertility of An. gambiae s.s. (IFAKARA) reared on BLOODless versus vertebrate blood from founder generation (F0) to eighth generation (F8). A total of 1000 female mosquitoes were randomly selected from F0, of which 500 mosquitoes were fed with bovine blood (control group) and the other 500 mosquitoes were fed with BLOODless diet (experimental group). The feeding success, number of eggs per female, hatching rate and pupation rate were examined post-feeding. Longevity and wing length were determined as fitness parameters for adult male and female mosquitoes for both populations.

Results

While blood-fed and BLOODless-fed mosquitoes showed similar feeding success, 92.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) 89.7–94.9] versus 93.6% (95% CI 90.6–96.6), respectively, significant differences emerged in their reproductive parameters. The mean number of eggs laid per female was significantly higher for blood-fed mosquitoes (P < 0.001) whereas BLOODless-fed mosquitoes had significantly lower hatching rates [odds ratio (OR) 0.17, 95% CI 0.14–0.22, P < 0.001]. Wing length and longevity were similar between both groups.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the potential of the BLOODless diet as a viable and ethical alternative to vertebrate blood feeding for rearing An. gambiae s.s. This breakthrough paves the way for more efficient and ethical studies aimed at combating malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.

Graphical Abstract
Infectivity of Plasmodium parasites to Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes maintained on blood-free meals of SkitoSnack
Authors: Gonzales-Wartz Kristina K. , Sá Juliana M. , Lee Kevin , Gebremicale Yonas , Deng Bingbing , Long Carole A. , Pascini Tales V. , Laughinghouse Andre , Moretz Samuel E. , Ortega-Villa Ana M. , Fay Michael P. , Wellems Thomas E.
Published: July 2024

Background

Aedes and Anopheles mosquitoes are responsible for tremendous global health burdens from their transmission of pathogens causing malaria, lymphatic filariasis, dengue, and yellow fever. Innovative vector control strategies will help to reduce the prevalence of these diseases. Mass rearing of mosquitoes for research and support of these strategies presently depends on meals of vertebrate blood, which is subject to acquisition, handling, and storage issues. Various blood-free replacements have been formulated for these mosquitoes, but none of these replacements are in wide use, and little is known about their potential impact on competence of the mosquitoes for Plasmodium infection.

Methods

Colonies of Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi were continuously maintained on a blood-free replacement (SkitoSnack; SS) or bovine blood (BB) and monitored for engorgement and hatch rates. Infections of Ae. aegypti and An. stephensi were assessed with Plasmodium gallinaceum and P. falciparum, respectively.

Results

Replicate colonies of mosquitoes were maintained on BB or SS for 10 generations of Ae. aegypti and more than 63 generations of An. stephensi. The odds of engorgement by SS- relative to BB-maintained mosquitoes were higher for both Ae. aegypti (OR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.3–5.2) and An. stephensi (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.4–5.5), while lower odds of hatching were found for eggs from the SS-maintained mosquitoes of both species (Ae. aegypti OR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.26–0.62; An. stephensi OR = 0.59, 95% CI 0.36–0.96). Oocyst counts were similar for P. gallinaceum infections of Ae. aegypti mosquitoes maintained on SS or BB (mean ratio = [mean on SS]/[mean on BB] = 1.11, 95% CI 0.85–1.49). Similar oocyst counts were also observed from the P. falciparum infections of SS- or BB-maintained An. stephensi (mean ratio = 0.76, 95% CI 0.44–1.37). The average counts of sporozoites/mosquito showed no evidence of reductions in the SS-maintained relative to BB-maintained mosquitoes of both species.

Conclusions

Aedes aegypti and An. stephensi can be reliably maintained on SS over multiple generations and are as competent for Plasmodium infection as mosquitoes maintained on BB. Use of SS alleviates the need to acquire and preserve blood for mosquito husbandry and may support new initiatives in fundamental and applied research, including novel manipulations of midgut microbiota and factors important to the mosquito life cycle and pathogen susceptibility.

Graphical Abstract
Managing abdominal cocoon syndrome complicated by intestinal necrosis and unexpected amelioration of depression after surgery: a case report
Authors: Zhang Judong , Hsieh Yifang , Zheng Kunming , Xu Jing
Published: July 2024

Background

Abdominal cocoon is a very uncommon yet dangerous cause of intestinal obstruction.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 62-year-old Asian male patient with a history of depression who exhibited an idiopathic abdominal cocoon complicated by necrosis. Upon laparotomy investigation, nearly the entire small intestine was enveloped in a thick membrane resembling a cocoon, and it was discovered that he lacked a greater omentum. The patient recovered well and was discharged on an oral diet on the 20th day following surgery. During the 3-month follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic, even gaining 10 kg in weight, and noted that his depression had improved.

Conclusions

Small bowel obstruction presents with nonspecific symptoms, posing challenges in differential diagnosis. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is recommended since it facilitates precise preoperative assessment, optimizing surgical planning and reducing postoperative complications. Remarkably, cessation of antidepressant medication post-surgery hints at a potential correlation between omental deficit, gut microbiota alterations, and depressive symptoms.
Essential role of p21Waf1/Cip1 in the modulation of post-traumatic hippocampal Neural Stem Cells response
Authors: Chiani Francesco , Mastrorilli Valentina , Marchetti Nicole , Macioce Andrea , Nappi Chiara , Strimpakos Georgios , Pasquini Miriam , Gambadoro Alessia , Battistini Jonathan Isacco , Cutuli Debora , Petrosini Laura , Marinelli Sara , Scardigli Raffaella , Farioli Vecchioli Stefano
Published: July 2024

Background

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) represents one of the main causes of brain damage in young people and the elderly population with a very high rate of psycho-physical disability and death. TBI is characterized by extensive cell death, tissue damage and neuro-inflammation with a symptomatology that varies depending on the severity of the trauma from memory loss to a state of irreversible coma and death. Recently, preclinical studies on mouse models have demonstrated that the post-traumatic adult Neural Stem/Progenitor cells response could represent an excellent model to shed light on the neuro-reparative role of adult neurogenesis following damage. The cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21Waf1/Cip1 plays a pivotal role in modulating the quiescence/activation balance of adult Neural Stem Cells (aNSCs) and in restraining the proliferation progression of progenitor cells. Based on these considerations, the aim of this work is to evaluate how the conditional ablation of p21Waf1/Cip1 in the aNSCS can alter the adult hippocampal neurogenesis in physiological and post-traumatic conditions.

Methods

We designed a novel conditional p21Waf1/Cip1 knock-out mouse model, in which the deletion of p21Waf1/Cip1 (referred as p21) is temporally controlled and occurs in Nestin-positive aNSCs, following administration of Tamoxifen. This mouse model (referred as p21 cKO mice) was subjected to Controlled Cortical Impact to analyze how the deletion of p21 could influence the post-traumatic neurogenic response within the hippocampal niche.

Results

The data demonstrates that the conditional deletion of p21 in the aNSCs induces a strong increase in activation of aNSCs as well as proliferation and differentiation of neural progenitors in the adult dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, resulting in an enhancement of neurogenesis and the hippocampal-dependent working memory. However, following traumatic brain injury, the increased neurogenic response of aNSCs in p21 cKO mice leads to a fast depletion of the aNSCs pool, followed by declined neurogenesis and impaired hippocampal functionality.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate for the first time a fundamental role of p21 in modulating the post-traumatic hippocampal neurogenic response, by the regulation of the proliferative and differentiative steps of aNSCs/progenitor populations after brain damage.
Decoding cellular plasticity and niche regulation of limbal stem cells during corneal wound healing
Authors: Sun Di , Zhang Xiaowen , Chen Rong , Sang Tian , Li Ya , Wang Qun , Xie Lixin , Zhou Qingjun , Dou Shengqian
Published: July 2024

Background

Dysfunction or deficiency of corneal epithelium results in vision impairment or blindness in severe cases. The rapid and effective regeneration of corneal epithelial cells relies on the limbal stem cells (LSCs). However, the molecular and functional responses of LSCs and their niche cells to injury remain elusive.

Methods

Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on corneal tissues from normal mice and corneal epithelium defect models. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to confirm the distinct characteristics and cell fates of LSCs. Knockdown of Creb5 and OSM treatment experiment were performed to determine their roles of in corneal epithelial wound healing.

Results

Our data defined the molecular signatures of LSCs and reconstructed the pseudotime trajectory of corneal epithelial cells. Gene network analyses characterized transcriptional landmarks that potentially regulate LSC dynamics, and identified a transcription factor Creb5, that was expressed in LSCs and significantly upregulated after injury. Loss-of-function experiments revealed that silencing Creb5 delayed the corneal epithelial healing and LSC mobilization. Through cell–cell communication analysis, we identified 609 candidate regeneration-associated ligand-receptor interaction pairs between LSCs and distinct niche cells, and discovered a unique subset of Arg1+ macrophages infiltrated after injury, which were present as the source of Oncostatin M (OSM), an IL-6 family cytokine, that were demonstrated to effectively accelerate the corneal epithelial wound healing.

Conclusions

This research provides a valuable single-cell resource and reference for the discovery of mechanisms and potential clinical interventions aimed at ocular surface reconstruction.
Soft information acceleration aided subspace suppression MIMO detection
Authors: Xiong XiaoXiong , Dong Chao , Bian Yaohui , Niu Kai
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a multiple-input multiple-output detection structure called soft information acceleration (SIA) is proposed, which is suitable for simplifying the two-stage subspace marginalization with interference suppression (SUMIS) into one stage. The proposed one-stage method outperforms the conventional two-stage SUMIS when the subspace size is large enough. The performance advantage of the proposed SUMIS-SIA mainly results from the average number of soft information updates being equal to the ’subspace size,’ instead of only once during the two-stage SUMIS detection. Thus, the SUMIS-SIA achieves a better trade-off between performance and complexity. To further reduce the complexity, a channel-shortening method based on subspace suppression is proposed. Simulation results show that the proposed channel-shortening one-stage method also outperforms SUMIS, which benefits from SIA.
Association of preserved ratio impaired spirometry with mortality and cardiovascular diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Mengya , Chen Mengxin , Li Yang , Liu Zhiguang , Li Xiaocong , Lang Xinyue , Hu Bo , Li Wei
Published: July 2024

Background

Preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm) is a type of abnormal lung function. PRISm and mortality have been explored in several studies, but a comprehensive evaluation of the associations is limited. The current study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis in order to investigate the mortality and cardiovascular diseases in patients with PRISm.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, as well as gray literature sources, were searched for relevant studies published up to 7 September 2023 without language restrictions. This review included all published observational cohort studies that investigated the association of PRISm with mortality in the general population, as well as subgroup analyses in smokers and pre-bronchodilation spirometry studies. The outcomes of interest were all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and respiratory-related mortality. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale assessed study quality. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses explored heterogeneity and robustness. Publication bias was assessed with Egger’s and Begg’s tests.

Results

Overall, eight studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled HR was 1.60 (95% CI, 1.48–1.74) for all-cause mortality, 1.68 (95% CI, 1.46–1.94) for CVD mortality, and 3.09 (95% CI, 1.42–6.71) for respiratory-related mortality in PRISm group compared to normal group. In the subgroup analysis, participants with PRISm had a higher effect (HR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.74–2.54) on all-cause mortality among smokers relative to participants with normal spirometry. Furthermore, the association between PRISm and mortality risk was consistent across several sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

People with PRISm were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality, CVD mortality, and respiratory-related mortality as compared to those with normal lung function in the general population.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42023426872.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing Escherichia coli in urinary tract and blood stream infections: results from a nationwide surveillance network, Finland, 2018 to 2022
Authors: Ilmavirta Heikki , Ollgren Jukka , Räisänen Kati , Kinnunen Tuure , Hakanen Antti Juhani , Rantakokko-Jalava Kaisu , Jalava Jari , Lyytikäinen Outi
Published: July 2024

Background

Before the COVID-19 pandemic there has been a constant increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of Escherichia coli, the most common cause of urinary tract infections and bloodstream infections. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production in urine and blood E. coli isolates in Finland to improve our understanding on the source attribution of this major multidrug-resistant pathogen.

Methods

Susceptibility test results of 564,233 urine (88.3% from females) and 23,860 blood E. coli isolates (58.8% from females) were obtained from the nationwide surveillance database of Finnish clinical microbiology laboratories. Susceptibility testing was performed according to EUCAST guidelines. We compared ESBL-producing E. coli proportions and incidence before (2018–2019), during (2020–2021), and after (2022) the pandemic and stratified these by age groups and sex.

Results

The annual number of urine E. coli isolates tested for antimicrobial susceptibility decreased 23.3% during 2018–2022 whereas the number of blood E. coli isolates increased 1.1%. The annual proportion of ESBL-producing E. coli in urine E. coli isolates decreased 28.7% among males, from 6.9% (average during 2018–2019) to 4.9% in 2022, and 28.7% among females, from 3.0 to 2.1%. In blood E. coli isolates, the proportion decreased 32.9% among males, from 9.3 to 6.2%, and 26.6% among females, from 6.2 to 4.6%. A significant decreasing trend was also observed in most age groups, but risk remained highest among persons aged ≥ 60 years.

Conclusions

The reduction in the proportions of ESBL-producing E. coli was comprehensive, covering both specimen types, both sexes, and all age groups, showing that the continuously increasing trends could be reversed. Decrease in international travel and antimicrobial use were likely behind this reduction, suggesting that informing travellers about the risk of multidrug-resistant bacteria, hygiene measures, and appropriate antimicrobial use is crucial in prevention. Evaluation of infection control measures in healthcare settings could be beneficial, especially in long-term care.
Source and level of dietary iron influence semen quality by affecting inflammation, oxidative stress and iron utilization levels in boars
Authors: Wu Yinghui , Li Yamei , Miao Yueyue , Wei Hongkui , Luo Hefeng , Ren Chunxiao , Zhang Yawei , Chen Juan , Wei Tanghong , Deng Jiyan , Peng Jian
Published: July 2024

Background

Boars fed a mixed form of inorganic and organic iron in excess of the NRC recommended levels still develop anemia, which suggested that the current level and form of iron supplementation in boar diets may be inappropriate. Therefore, 56 healthy Topeka E line boars aged 15–21 months were randomly divided into 5 groups: basal diet supplemented with 96 mg/kg ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) and 54 mg/kg glycine chelated iron (Gly-Fe, control); 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe; 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg methionine hydroxyl analogue chelated iron (MHA-Fe, from Calimet-Fe) for 16 weeks. The effects of dietary iron supplementation with different sources and levels on semen quality in boars were investigated.

Results

1) Serum Fe and hemoglobin concentrations were not affected by reduced dietary iron levels in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe and MHA-Fe groups compared with the control group (P > 0.05). 2) Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and sperm malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe groups were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05), and higher serum superoxide dismutase levels and lower MDA levels in the 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe group (P < 0.05). 3) Boars in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe and MHA-Fe groups had lower serum hepcidin (P < 0.01), ferritin (P < 0.05), and transferrin receptor (P < 0.01) concentrations, and boars in the 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe group had higher seminal plasma Fe concentrations compared with the control group. 4) Boars in the 80 mg/kg and 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe groups had lower abnormal sperm rate and in situ oscillating sperm ratio compared to the control group at weeks 12 and/or 16 of the trial. However, the effect of Gly-Fe on improving semen quality in boars was not evident. 5) Serum IL-6 level was positively correlated with hepcidin concentration (P < 0.05), which in turn was significantly positively correlated with abnormal sperm rate (P < 0.05). Furthermore, significant correlations were also found between indicators of iron status and oxidative stress and semen quality parameters.

Conclusions

Dietary supplementation with 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe did not induce iron deficiency, but rather reduced serum inflammatory levels and hepcidin concentration, alleviated oxidative stress, increased body iron utilization, and improved semen quality in adult boars.
Land use evaluation and capacity assessment for sustainable urban physical development: case of study Ahvaz city
Authors: Shamai Ali , Jafarpour Ghalehteimouri Kamran
Published: July 2024

Land use evaluation and capacity assessment for sustainable urban development in Ahvaz city has become crucial due to rapid urban expansion negatively impacting current and future development. Urban population growth and resource demands have led to a decline in environmental quality. Over the past decades, Ahvaz has identified potential areas for future expansion until 2030. This study assesses the city's physical expansion and spatial development patterns, aiming to identify optimistic future development scenarios. Emphasizing balanced and equitable development, the study focuses on suitable areas, environmental preservation, pollution reduction, and mitigating urban hazards . Various factors, including land use, soil type, vegetation density, landform, groundwater level, geology, and distances from railways, industries, roads, hinterland cities, water networks, faults, and the city itself, are considered. Three decision-making methods—logic, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), and integrated Fuzzy-AHP—are applied to map urban physical development. Fuzzy logic, AHP models, Expert Choice, Arc GIS software, and a land fit zoning map are used for data analysis. The AHP assesses the factors' relative importance, followed by standardization based on fuzzy set theory. Criteria factors are then combined using AHP and fuzzy logic to generate a land suitability map. The study identifies five zones for Ahvaz's future development—very high, high, medium, low, and very low—based on their physical expansion potential. The third scenario, supported by maps, indicates favorable conditions for future development in the northwest and southwest zones, considering environmental characteristics, infrastructure, and land continuity.
Fishers (Pekania pennanti) are forest structure specialists when resting and generalists when moving: behavior influences resource selection in a northern Rocky Mountain fisher population
Authors: Olson Lucretia E. , Sauder Joel D. , Fekety Patrick A. , Golding Jessie D. , Lewis Carly W. , Sadak Rema B. , Schwartz Michael K.
Published: July 2024

Background

Studies of animal habitat selection are important to identify and preserve the resources species depend on, yet often little attention is paid to how habitat needs vary depending on behavioral state. Fishers (Pekania pennanti) are known to be dependent on large, mature trees for resting and denning, but less is known about their habitat use when foraging or moving within a home range.

Methods

We used GPS locations collected during the energetically costly pre-denning season from 12 female fishers to determine fisher habitat selection during two critical behavioral activities: foraging (moving) or resting, with a focus on response to forest structure related to past forest management actions since this is a primary driver of fisher habitat configuration. We characterized behavior based on high-resolution GPS and collar accelerometer data and modeled fisher selection for these two behaviors within a home range (third-order selection). Additionally, we investigated whether fisher use of elements of forest structure or other important environmental characteristics changed as their availability changed, i.e., a functional response, for each behavior type.

Results

We found that fishers exhibited specialist selection when resting and generalist selection when moving, with resting habitat characterized by riparian drainages with dense canopy cover and moving habitat primarily influenced by the presence of mesic montane mixed conifer forest. Fishers were more tolerant of forest openings and other early succession elements when moving than resting.

Conclusions

Our results emphasize the importance of considering the differing habitat needs of animals based on their movement behavior when performing habitat selection analyses. We found that resting fishers are more specialist in their habitat needs, while foraging fishers are more generalist and will tolerate greater forest heterogeneity from past disturbance.
A multi-channel stimulator with an active electrode array implant for vagal-cardiac neuromodulation studies
Authors: Liu Fangqi , Habibollahi Maryam , Wu Yu , Neshatvar Nazanin , Zhang Jiaxing , Zinno Ciro , Akouissi Outman , Bernini Fabio , Alibrandi Lisa , Gabisonia Khatia , Lionetti Vincenzo , Carpaneto Jacopo , Lancashire Henry , Jiang Dai , Micera Silvestro , Demosthenous Andreas
Published: July 2024

Background

Implantable vagus nerve stimulation is a promising approach for restoring autonomic cardiovascular functions after heart transplantation. For successful treatment a system should have multiple electrodes to deliver precise stimulation and complex neuromodulation patterns.

Methods

This paper presents an implantable multi-channel stimulation system for vagal-cardiac neuromodulation studies in swine species. The system comprises an active electrode array implant percutaneously connected to an external wearable controller. The active electrode array implant has an integrated stimulator ASIC mounted on a ceramic substrate connected to an intraneural electrode array via micro-rivet bonding. The implant is silicone encapsulated for biocompatibility and implanted lifetime. The stimulation parameters are remotely transmitted via a Bluetooth telemetry link.

Results

The size of the encapsulated active electrode array implant is 8 mm × 10 mm × 3 mm. The stimulator ASIC has 10-bit current amplitude resolution and 16 independent output channels, each capable of delivering up to 550 µA stimulus current and a maximum voltage of 20 V. The active electrode array implant was subjected to in vitro accelerated lifetime testing at 70 °C for 7 days with no degradation in performance. After over 2 h continuous stimulation, the surface temperature change of the implant was less than 0.5 °C. In addition, in vivo testing on the sciatic nerve of a male Göttingen minipig demonstrated that the implant could effectively elicit an EMG response that grew progressively stronger on increasing the amplitude of the stimulation.

Conclusions

The multi-channel stimulator is suitable for long term implantation. It shows potential as a useful tool in vagal-cardiac neuromodulation studies in animal models for restoring autonomic cardiovascular functions after heart transplantation.
Assessment of airflow limitation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: El-Sorougi Waleed Mohamed Kamal Eldin , Ali Mohamed Alaa Abdelhamid , Abdalrazik Fatmaalzahraa Saad
Published: July 2024

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep breathing disorder affecting 9–25% of the general adult population.

Aim

To assess airflow limitation by spirometric indices in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

Patients and methods

This observational case–control study was conducted on 60 subjects who were divided into four groups: Group I (control group), included 20 subjects chosen from other departments, who had no respiratory complaints with apnea–hypopnea index (AHI < 5); Group II (mild group), included 11 patients with mild sleep apnea, 5 ≤ AHI < 15; Group III (moderate group), included 17 patients with moderate sleep apnea, 15 ≤ AHI < 30; and Group IV (severe group), included 12 patients with severe sleep apnea, AHI ≥ 30 at the Chest Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, from August 2021 until June 2022.

Results

There was no statistically significant relation found between the severity of AHI and all the previous pulmonary function parameters except a statistically significant decrease in FEF (25–75%) in the moderate group than the mild group and also in the severe group than the moderate group (p-value < 0.001). There was a statistically significant positive correlation found between AHI and BMI and NC and a negative correlation found between AHI and FEF (25–75%) while no statistically significant correlation was found between AHI and the other studied parameters.

Conclusion

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with airflow limitation by spirometric indices, although this association is statistically insignificant. On the other hand, the severity of obstructive sleep apnea is directly proportional to the seriousness of the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI). Strong correlations were found between the severity of AHI and body mass index (BMI), neck circumference, and FEF (25–75%).