bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The privilege of pessimism: The politics of despair towards the digital and the moral imperative to hope
Authors: Arora Payal
Published: May 2024

The West is suffering from ‘pessimism paralysis’ – a despair towards the digital. This stands against the contagion of hope towards new technologies among young people, most of whom live in the Global South and have fast come online due to increasingly cheap mobile phones and data plans. The digital, despite the risks of surveillance and control, offers these young people with the possibility of a little more freedom to find pleasure, leisure, and spaces for self-actualization. While fears and concerns around new technology are legitimate, they become critically meaningful when they fairly account for the full spectrum of human sentiment driven by diverse lived experiences. Pessimism is a privilege for those who can afford to live with despair. It is our moral imperative to hope as this collective belief can be harnessed to align the digital with global social flourishing.
Oxidation behaviour of gamma titanium aluminides with or without protective coatings
Authors: Kim Daejin , Seo Dongyi , Huang Xiao , Sawatzky Trevor , Saari Henry , Hong Jaekeun , Kim Young-Won
Published: May 2024

The γ-TiAl alloys are promising high temperature materials for aeroengines due to their low density, high specific strength and low material cost compared with Nickel based superalloys. However, the insufficient ductility at room temperature and the limited oxidation resistance at temperatures above approximately 750°C have limited their applications. Oxidation resistance in the application temperature range of 800 and 1000°C is of particular importance. Remarkable improvement to the environmental resistance by adding ternary and quaternary elements to the γ-TiAl alloys has been reported; however, alloying additions frequently deteriorate their mechanical properties. Surface modifications or coatings, which promote the formation of highly protective alumina scales, are also viable ways to improve the environmental resistance of TiAl alloys. In this article, the research work from the last 30 years on the oxidation behaviour of bare and coated TiAl alloys will be reviewed, with special focus on the γ-TiAl alloys. The review will begin with the oxidation behaviour of TiAl substrate alloys and the oxidation behaviour of γ-TiAl alloys with high temperature coatings such as aluminide, MCrAlY, Ti–Al– X and thermal barrier coating (TBC) system will be followed.
Australian Headache Epidemiology Data (AHEAD): a pilot study to assess sampling and engagement methodology for a nationwide population-based survey
Authors: Foster Emma , Chen Zhibin , Wakefield Claire E , Ademi Zanfina , Hutton Elspeth , Steiner Timothy J , Zagami Alessandro S
Published: May 2024

Background

There are no robust population-based Australian data on prevalence and attributed burden of migraine and medication-overuse headache (MOH) data. In this pilot cross-sectional study, we aimed to capture the participation rate, preferred response method, and acceptability of self-report questionnaires to inform the conduct of a future nationwide migraine/MOH epidemiological study.

Methods

We developed a self-report questionnaire, available in hard-copy and online, including modules from the Headache-Attributed Restriction, Disability, Social Handicap and Impaired Participation (HARDSHIP) questionnaire, the Eq. 5D (quality of life), and enquiry into treatment gaps. Study invitations were mailed to 20,000 randomly selected households across Australia’s two most populous states. The household member who most recently had a birthday and was aged ≥ 18 years was invited to participate, and could do so by returning a hard-copy questionnaire via reply-paid mail, or by entering responses directly into an online platform.

Results

The participation rate was 5.0% (N = 1,000). Participants’ median age was 60 years (IQR 44–71 years), and 64.7% (n = 647) were female. Significantly more responses were received from areas with relatively older populations and middle-level socioeconomic status. Hard copy was the more commonly chosen response method (n = 736). Females and younger respondents were significantly more likely to respond online than via hard-copy.

Conclusions

This pilot study indicates that alternative methodology is needed to achieve satisfactory engagement in a future nationwide migraine/MOH epidemiological study, for example through inclusion of migraine screening questions in well-resourced, interview-based national health surveys that are conducted regularly by government agencies. Meanwhile, additional future research directions include defining and addressing treatment gaps to improve migraine awareness, and minimise under-diagnosis and under-treatment.
Migrating foreign bodies of penis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Yang Bo , Ke Ying , Qiu Aixin , Wen Lijie , Xv Xiaolong , Liu Xiaoyun , Zhang Yue
Published: May 2024

Background

Only a few cases have been reported about active foreign body implantation in the cavernous body of the penis.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old man inserted two needles from the glans penis into the bilateral penile sponge body. Subsequently, two needles migrated through the penile cavernous body into the pelvic cavity. Attempts to remove the needles through the penis were unsuccessful. Eventually, after a duration exceeding one month, the displaced needles were removed in stages from the buttocks.

Conclusion

A few cases of intracavernosal-injection-therapy-associated needle breakage and retention have been reported globally. And this is the first case in China documenting the migration of foreign bodies within the penile region. In this condition, it is of utmost importance to engage the expertise of experienced andrologists to minimize the risk of excessive manipulation, thereby ensuring that inadvertent deep penetration of the needle into the penile tissue is prevented. In case the foreign body has migrated deeper into the tissues and the patient does not exhibit any specific symptoms or risks of macrovascular injury-related bleeding, close surveillance of its movement can be implemented. Surgical intervention can be initiated once the foreign body has reached a suitable position. Moreover, a psychiatric evaluation should be recommended for patient to discover any underlying mental health disorders.
Comparative analysis of POD genes and their expression under multiple hormones in Pyrus bretschenedri
Authors: Li Guohui , Manzoor Muhammad Aamir , Wang Guoyu , Huang Shiping , Ding Xiaoyuan , Abdullah Muhammad , Zhang Ming , Song Cheng
Published: May 2024

Background

Class III peroxidase (POD) enzymes play vital roles in plant development, hormone signaling, and stress responses. Despite extensive research on POD families in various plant species, the knowledge regarding the POD family in Chinese pear (Pyrus bretschenedri) is notably limited.

Results

We systematically characterized 113 POD family genes, designated as PbPOD1 to PbPOD113 based on their chromosomal locations. Phylogenetic analysis categorized these genes into seven distinct subfamilies (I to VII). The segmental duplication events were identified as a prevalent mechanism driving the expansion of the POD gene family. Microsynteny analysis, involving comparisons with Pyrus bretschenedri, Fragaria vesca, Prunus avium, Prunus mume and Prunus persica, highlighted the conservation of duplicated POD regions and their persistence through purifying selection during the evolutionary process. The expression patterns of PbPOD genes were performed across various plant organs and diverse fruit development stages using transcriptomic data. Furthermore, we identified stress-related cis-acting elements within the promoters of PbPOD genes, underscoring their involvement in hormonal and environmental stress responses. Notably, qRT-PCR analyses revealed distinctive expression patterns of PbPOD genes in response to melatonin (MEL), salicylic acid (SA), abscisic acid (ABA), and methyl jasmonate (MeJA), reflecting their responsiveness to abiotic stress and their role in fruit growth and development.

Conclusions

In this study, we investigated the potential functions and evolutionary dynamics of PbPOD genes in Pyrus bretschenedri, positioning them as promising candidates for further research and valuable indicators for enhancing fruit quality through molecular breeding strategies.
Genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of Clostridium perfringens strains isolated from mastitis and enteritis in Egyptian dairy farms
Authors: Abo Elyazeed Heidy , Elhariri Mahmoud , Eldeen Nashwa Ezz , Aziz Dalal Ahmed , Elhelw Rehab
Published: May 2024

Background

Clostridium perfringens, a common environmental bacterium, is responsible for a variety of serious illnesses including food poisoning, digestive disorders, and soft tissue infections. Mastitis in lactating cattle and sudden death losses in baby calves are major problems for producers raising calves on dairy farms. The pathogenicity of this bacterium is largely mediated by its production of various toxins.

Results

The study revealed that Among the examined lactating animals with a history of mastitis, diarrheal baby calves, and acute sudden death cases in calves, C. perfringens was isolated in 23.5% (93/395) of the total tested samples. Eighteen isolates were obtained from mastitic milk, 59 from rectal swabs, and 16 from the intestinal contents of dead calves. Most of the recovered C. perfringens isolates (95.6%) were identified as type A by molecular toxinotyping, except for four isolates from sudden death cases (type C). Notably, C. perfringens was recovered in 100% of sudden death cases compared with 32.9% of rectal swabs and 9% of milk samples. This study analyzed the phylogeny of C. perfringens using the plc region and identified the plc region in five Egyptian bovine isolates (milk and fecal origins). Importantly, this finding expands the known data on C. perfringens phospholipase C beyond reference strains in GenBank from various animal and environmental sources.

Conclusion

Phylogenetic analyses of nucleotide sequence data differentiated between strains of different origins. The plc sequences of Egyptian C. perfringens strains acquired in the present study differed from those reported globally and constituted a distinct genetic ancestor.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) improves salinity stress tolerance in soybean seedlings by modulating their mineral nutrition, osmolyte contents, and ascorbate-glutathione cycle
Authors: Qian Zhao , Lu Liu , Zihan Wei , Qianyue Bai , Chungang Zhao , Shuheng Zhang , Jiali Pan , Jiaxin Yu , Shuang Zhang , Jian Wei
Published: May 2024

Background

In plants, GABA plays a critical role in regulating salinity stress tolerance. However, the response of soybean seedlings (Glycine max L.) to exogenous gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) under saline stress conditions has not been fully elucidated.

Results

This study investigated the effects of exogenous GABA (2 mM) on plant biomass and the physiological mechanism through which soybean plants are affected by saline stress conditions (0, 40, and 80 mM of NaCl and Na2SO4 at a 1:1 molar ratio). We noticed that increased salinity stress negatively impacted the growth and metabolism of soybean seedlings, compared to control. The root-stem-leaf biomass (27- and 33%, 20- and 58%, and 25- and 59% under 40- and 80 mM stress, respectively]) and the concentration of chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b significantly decreased. Moreover, the carotenoid content increased significantly (by 35%) following treatment with 40 mM stress. The results exhibited significant increase in the concentration of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), dehydroascorbic acid (DHA) oxidized glutathione (GSSG), Na+, and Cl− under 40- and 80 mM stress levels, respectively. However, the concentration of mineral nutrients, soluble proteins, and soluble sugars reduced significantly under both salinity stress levels. In contrast, the proline and glycine betaine concentrations increased compared with those in the control group. Moreover, the enzymatic activities of ascorbate peroxidase, monodehydroascorbate reductase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase decreased significantly, while those of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and dehydroascorbate reductase increased following saline stress, indicating the overall sensitivity of the ascorbate-glutathione cycle (AsA-GSH). However, exogenous GABA decreased Na+, Cl−, H2O2, and MDA concentration but enhanced photosynthetic pigments, mineral nutrients (K+, K+/Na+ ratio, Zn2+, Fe2+, Mg2+, and Ca2+); osmolytes (proline, glycine betaine, soluble sugar, and soluble protein); enzymatic antioxidant activities; and AsA-GSH pools, thus reducing salinity-associated stress damage and resulting in improved growth and biomass. The positive impact of exogenously applied GABA on soybean plants could be attributed to its ability to improve their physiological stress response mechanisms and reduce harmful substances.

Conclusion

Applying GABA to soybean plants could be an effective strategy for mitigating salinity stress. In the future, molecular studies may contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms by which GABA regulates salt tolerance in soybeans.
Impact of intravenous accessibility and prehospital epinephrine use on survival outcomes of adult nontraumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients
Authors: Park Song Yi , Choi Byungho , Kim Sun Hyu
Published: May 2024

Background

This study compared out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patient outcomes based on intravenous (IV) access and prehospital epinephrine use.

Methods

A retrospective study in Ulsan, South Korea, from January 2017 to December 2022, analyzed adult nontraumatic OHCA cases. Patients were grouped: Group 1 (no IV attempts), Group 2 (failed IV access), Group 3 (successful IV access without epinephrine), and Group 4 (successful IV access with epinephrine), with comparisons using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Among 2,656 patients, Group 4 had significantly lower survival to hospital discharge (adjusted OR 0.520, 95% CI 0.346–0.782, p = 0.002) and favorable neurological outcomes (adjusted OR 0.292, 95% CI 0.140–0.611, p = 0.001) than Group 1. Groups 2 and 3 showed insignificant survival to hospital discharge (adjusted OR 0.814, 95% CI 0.566–1.171, p = 0.268) and (adjusted OR 1.069, 95% CI 0.810–1.412, p = 0.636) and favorable neurological outcomes (adjusted OR 0.585, 95% CI 0.299–1.144, p = 0.117) and (adjusted OR 1.075, 95% CI 0.689–1.677, p = 0.751). In the shockable rhythm group, Group 3 had better survival to hospital discharge (adjusted OR 1.700, 95% CI 1.044–2.770, p = 0.033).

Conclusions

Successful IV access with epinephrine showed worse outcomes in both rhythm groups than no IV attempts. Outcomes for failed IV and successful IV access without epinephrine were inconclusive. Importantly, successful IV access without epinephrine showed favorable survival to hospital discharge in the shockable rhythm group, warranting further research into IV access for fluid resuscitation in shockable rhythm OHCA patients.
Access to primary health care: perspectives of primary care physicians and community stakeholders
Authors: Toal-Sullivan Darene , Dahrouge Simone , Tesfaselassie Johanna , Olejnik Laura
Published: May 2024

Background

Action on the social determinants of health is important to strengthen primary health care and promote access among underserved populations. We report on findings from stakeholder consultations undertaken at one of the Canadian sites of the Innovative Models Promoting Access-to-Care Transformation (IMPACT) program, as part of the development of a best practice intervention to improve access to primary health care. The overarching objective of this qualitative study was to understand the processes, barriers, and facilitators to connect patients to health enabling community resources (HERs) to inform a patient navigation model situated in primary care.

Methods

Focus groups and interviews were conducted with primary care physicians, and community health and social service providers to understand their experiences in supporting patients in reaching HERs. Current gaps in access to primary health care and the potential of patient navigation were also explored. We applied Levesque et al., (2013) access framework to code the data and four themes emerged: (1) Approachability and Ability to Perceive, (2) Acceptability and Ability to Seek, (3) Availability and Accommodation, and Ability to Reach, and (4) Appropriateness.

Results

Determinants of access included patient and provider awareness of HERs, the nature of the patient-provider relationship, funding of HERs, integration of primary and community care services, and continuity of information. Participants’ perspectives about the potential scope and role of a patient navigator provided valuable insight for the development of the Access to Resources in the Community (ARC) navigation model and how it could be embedded in a primary care setting.

Conclusion

Additional consultation with key stakeholders in the health region is needed to gain a broader understanding of the challenges in caring for primary care patients with social barriers and how to support them in accessing community-based primary health care to inform the design of the ARC intervention.
Physical function as a predictor of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Lin Kuan-Yin , Chen Po See , Lin Cheng-Feng
Published: May 2024

Background

A growing body of research indicates that poor functional status before chemotherapy may be correlated with the severity of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) after the neurotoxic treatment. However, little is known about the associations between pre-chemotherapy physical function and CIPN in patients with pancreatic cancer.

Purpose

To identify the predictors of CIPN in relation to pre-chemotherapy physical function in patients with pancreatic cancer.

Methods

This secondary analysis included data from patients with pancreatic cancer who participated in a longitudinal research study at National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan. Four physical function tests (i.e., grip strength, Timed Up and Go (TUG), 2-minute step test (2MST), and Romberg test) and two questionnaires (The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 [EORTC QLQ-C30] and Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Module [CIPN20]) were assessed at baseline (i.e., before first chemotherapy session) and 2-, 3-, 4-, and 6-month follow-up. Multiple linear regression with adjustment for confounding factors was used to assess the associations between the four functional tests at baseline and the CIPN20 total score and individual subscale scores (sensory, motor, and autonomic) at 6-month follow-up.

Results

Data from a total of 209 pancreatic cancer patients (mean age: 64.4 years, 54.5% male) were analyzed. The findings showed that the severity of CIPN at 6-month follow-up was significantly associated with the baseline TUG completion time (β = 0.684, p = 0.003). The TUG completion time was also positively correlated with the 6-month CIPN sensory and autonomic subscales. In addition, a baseline positive Romberg test (β = 0.525, p = 0.009) was a significant predictor of the severity of motor neuropathy at 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion

The TUG completion time and positive Romberg test before chemotherapy may be predictive factors of the CIPN severity 6 months after the commencement of chemotherapy. Accordingly, the incorporation of TUG and Romberg tests into the clinical assessment protocol emerges as imperative for individuals diagnosed with pancreatic carcinoma undergoing chemotherapy regimens.
An exploratory study on material deprivation and loneliness among older adults in Hong Kong
Authors: Tang Vivien Foong Yee , Chou Kee Lee
Published: May 2024

Background

Poverty, as a risk factor for loneliness, has been understudied, and there is a need to gain a better understanding of the relationship between poverty examined by material deprivation and loneliness among older adults in Hong Kong. It also aimed to explore the possible mediation and moderation effects of social support, social networks, neighborhood collective efficacy, and social engagement in the link between material deprivation and loneliness.

Methods

1696 Chinese older adults aged 60 years and above (Mage = 74.61; SD = 8.71) participated in a two-wave study. Older adults reported their loneliness level, material deprivation, perceived level of social support, social network, neighborhood collective efficacy, social engagement, and sociodemographic information. Logistic regression was conducted to examine the effect of material deprivation on loneliness, as well as the mediation and moderation models.

Results

The results indicated that material deprived older adults reported a significantly higher level of loneliness 2 years later when controlling for demographic variables, health-related factors, and loneliness at baseline. We also found that engagement in cultural activities partially mediated the effect of material deprivation and loneliness. Furthermore, neighborhood collective efficacy and engagement in cultural activities were significant moderators that buffer the relationship between material deprivation and loneliness.

Conclusions

Our results suggested the need to alleviate the negative impact of material deprivation on loneliness by developing interventions focused on promoting neighborhood collective efficacy and social engagement, which could be aimed at building meaningful bonds among Chinese older adults in Hong Kong.
Prognostic factors and the role of primary debulking in operable stage IVB ovarian cancer with supraclavicular lymph node metastasis: a retrospective study in Chinese patients
Authors: Quan Chenlian , Chen Xiaojun , Wen Hao , Wu Xiaohua , Li Jin
Published: May 2024

Background

Recent studies showed heterogeneity in stage IVB patients. However, few studies focused on the prognosis of supraclavicular metastatic ovarian cancer. This study aimed to explore the prognostic factors and the role of primary debulking in IVB ovarian cancer patients with supraclavicular lymph node metastasis.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients newly diagnosed as primary epithelial ovarian cancer with supraclavicular lymph node metastasis from January 2015 to July 2020. Supraclavicular lymph node metastasis was defined as either the pathological diagnosis by supraclavicular lymph node biopsy, or the radiological diagnosis by positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT).

Results

In 51 patients, 37 was diagnosed with metastatic supraclavicular lymph nodes by histology, 46 by PET-CT, and 32 by both methods. Forty-four (86.3%) with simultaneous metastatic paraaortic lymph nodes (PALNs) by imaging before surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy were defined as “continuous-metastasis type”, while the other 7 (13.7%) defined as “skip-metastasis type”. Nineteen patients were confirmed with metastatic PALNs by histology. Thirty-four patients were investigated for BRCA mutation, 17 had germline or somatic BRCA1/2 mutations (g/sBRCAm). With a median follow-up of 30.0 months (6.3–63.4 m), 16 patients (31.4%) died. The median PFS and OS of the cohort were 17.3 and 48.9 months. Survival analysis showed that “continuous-metastasis type” had longer OS and PFS than “skip-metastasis type” (OS: 50.0/26.6 months, PFS: 18.5/7.2months, p=0.005/0.002). BRCA mutation carriers also had longer OS and PFS than noncarriers (OS: 57.4 /38.5 m, p=0.031; PFS: 23.6/15.2m, p=0.005). Multivariate analysis revealed only metastatic PALNs was independent prognostic factor for OS (p=0.040). Among “continuous-metastasis type” patients, 22 (50.0%) achieved R0 abdominopelvic debulking, who had significantly longer OS (55.3/42.3 months, p =0.034) than those with residual abdominopelvic tumors.

Conclusions

In stage IVB ovarian cancer patients with supraclavicular lymph nodes metastasis, those defined as “continuous-metastasis type” with positive PALNs had better prognosis. For them, optimal abdominopelvic debulking had prognostic benefit, although metastatic supraclavicular lymph nodes were not resected. Higher BRCA mutation rate than the general population of ovarian cancer patients was observed in patients with IVB supraclavicular lymph node metastasis, leading to better survival as expected.
Methyl CpG binding protein MBD2 has a regulatory role on the BRCA1 gene expression and its modulation by resveratrol in ER+, PR+ & triple-negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Sahu Ram Krishna , Tandon Simran , Singh Shalini , Das Bhudev Chandra , Hedau Suresh T
Published: May 2024

Background

Resveratrol has demonstrated its ability to regulate BRCA1 gene expression in breast cancer cells, and previous studies have established the binding of MBD proteins to BRCA1 gene promoter regions. However, the molecular mechanism underlying these interactions remains to be elucidated. The aimed to evaluate the impact of MBD proteins on the regulation of BRCA1, BRCA2, and p16 genes and their consequential effects on breast cancer cells.

Methods

Efficacy of resveratrol was assessed using the MTT assay. Binding interactions were investigated through EMSA, ChIP, & MeIP assay. Expression analyses of MBD genes and proteins were conducted using qRT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. Functional assays, including clonogenic, migratory, and sphere formation assays were used to assess cancer cells’ colony-forming, metastatic, and tumor-forming abilities. The cytotoxicity of resveratrol on cancer cells was also tested using an apoptosis assay.

Results

The study determined an IC50 of 30µM for resveratrol. MBD proteins were found to bind to the BRCA1 gene promoter. Resveratrol exhibited regulatory effects on MBD gene expression, subsequently impacting BRCA1 gene expression and protein levels. Higher concentrations of resveratrol resulted in reduced colony and sphere formation, decreases migration of cancer cells, and an increases number of apoptotic cells in breast cancer cells.

Impact

Identification of MBD2-BRCA1 axis indicates their significant role in the induction of apoptosis and reduction of metastasis and proliferation in breast cancer cells. Further therapy can be designed to target these MBD proteins and resveratrol could be used along with other anticancer drugs to target breast cancer.

Conclusions

In conclusion MBD2 protein interact to the BRCA1 gene promoter, and resveratrol modulates MBD2 gene expression, which in turn regulates BRCA1 gene expression, and inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and induces apoptosis in ER+, PR+ & Triple negative breast cancer cells.
The outcomes of corneal sight rehabilitating surgery in Stevens-Johnson syndrome: case series
Authors: Peng Rongmei , Chi Miaomiao , Xiao Gege , Qu Hongqiang , Shen Zhan , Zhao Yinghan , Hong Jing
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To summarize the outcomes of corneal sight rehabilitating surgery in Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS).

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of a consecutive case series. Twenty-four eyes of 18 SJS patients were included in this study. The ocular parameters, surgical procedures, postoperative complications, and additional treatments of the cases were reviewed.

Results

A total of 29 corneal sight rehabilitating surgeries, which consists of 9 keratoplasties, 8 Keratolimbal allograft (KLAL) and 12 combined surgeries (keratoplasty and KLAL simultaneously) were performed on the 24 eyes. All patients were treated with glucocorticoid eyedrops and tacrolimus eyedrops for anti-rejection treatment without combining systemic immunosuppression, except two patients who were prescribed prednisone tablets for the management of systemic conditions. The mean follow-up period was 50.6 ± 28.1 months. The optimal visual acuity (VA) (0.74 ± 0.60 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR]) and endpoint VA (1.06 ± 0.82 logMAR) were both significantly better than the preoperative VA (1.96 ± 0.43 logMAR) (95% CI, p = 0.000). 57.1% patients (8/14) were no longer in the low vision spectrum, and 88.9% patients (8/9) were no longer blind. The mean epithelialization time was 7.1 ± 7.6 weeks. The success rate was 86.7%. Additional treatments for improving epithelialization included administration of serum eyedrops (n = 10), contact lens (n = 15), amniotic membrane transplantation (n = 6), and tarsorrhaphy (n = 8). Complications included delayed epithelialization (n = 4, over 12 weeks), glaucoma (n = 11), and severe allograft opacity (n = 4). Only one graft rejection was observed.

Conclusions

Keratoplasty and KLAL can remarkably enhance VA and improve low vision or even eliminate blindness for ocular complications of SJS. The outcome of the surgeries was correlated with the preoperative ocular situation and choice of operative methods.
Risk factors for delayed extubation after pediatric perineal anaplasty in patients less than 1 year of age: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Xu Jing , Huang Qinghua , Gong Tianqing , Li Jia , Cui Yu
Published: May 2024

Background

Anorectal malformation is a common congenital problem occurring in 1 in 5,000 births and has a spectrum of anatomical presentations, requiring individualized surgical treatments for normal growth. Delayed extubation or reintubation may result in a longer intensive care unit (ICU) stay and hospital stay, increased mortality, prolonged duration of mechanical ventilation, increased tracheostomy rate, and higher hospital costs. Extensive studies have focused on the role of risk factors in early extubation during major infant surgery such as Cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, and liver surgery. However, no study has mentioned the influencing factors of delayed extubation in neonates and infants undergoing angioplasty surgery.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective study of neonates and infants who underwent anorectal malformation surgery between June 2018 and June 2022. The principal goal of this study was to observe the incidence of delayed extubation in pediatric anorectal malformation surgery. The secondary goals were to identify the factors associated with delayed extubation in these infants.

Results

We collected data describing 123 patients who had anorectal malformations from 2019 to 2022. It shows that 74(60.2%) in the normal intubation group and 49(39.8%) in the longer extubation. In the final model, anesthesia methods were independently associated with delayed extubation (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

We found that the anesthesia method was independently associated with early extubation in neonates and infants who accepted pediatric anorectal malformation surgery.
The role of various physiological and bioelectrical parameters for estimating the weight status in infants and juveniles cohort from the Southern Cuba region: a machine learning study
Authors: Luna Taira Batista , Bello Jose Luis García , Carbonell Agustín Garzón , Montoya Ana de la Caridad Román , Lafargue Alcibíades Lara , Ciria Héctor Manuel Camué , Zulueta Yohandys A.
Published: May 2024

Objective

The search for other indicators to assess the weight status of individuals is important as it may provide more accurate information and assist in personalized medicine.This work is aimed to develop a machine learning predictions of weigh status derived from bioimpedance measurements and other physical parameters of healthy infant juvenile cohort from the Southern Cuba Region, Santiago de Cuba.

Methods

The volunteers were selected between 2002 and 2008, ranging in age between 2 and 18 years old. In total, 393 female and male infant and juvenile individuals are studied. The bioimpedance parameters are obtained by measuring standard tetrapolar whole-body configuration. A classification model are performed, followed by a prediction of other bioparameters influencing the weight status.

Results

The results obtained from the classification model indicate that fat-free mass, reactance, and corrected resistance primarily influence the weight status of the studied population. Specifically, the regression model demonstrates that other bioparameters derived from impedance measurements can be highly accurate in estimating weight status.

Conclusion

The classification and regression predictive models developed in this work are of the great importance for accessing to the weigh status with high accuracy of younger individuals at the Oncological Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba.
“We know what we should be eating, but we don’t always do that.” How and why people eat the way they do: a qualitative study with rural australians
Authors: Van Dyke Nina , Murphy Michael , Drinkwater Eric J.
Published: May 2024

Background

There is evidence that most people are aware of the importance of healthy eating and have a broad understanding regarding types of food that enhance or detract from health. However, greater health literacy does not always result in healthier eating. Andreasen’s Social Marketing Model and Community-Based Social Marketing both posit that, in order to change health behaviours, it is crucial to understand reasons for current behaviours and perceived barriers and benefits to improved behaviours. Limited research has been conducted, however, that explores these issues with general populations. This study aimed to help address this gap in the evidence using a qualitative methodology.

Methods

Three group discussions were conducted with a total of 23 participants: (1) young women aged 18–24 with no children; (2) women aged 35–45 with primary school aged children; and (3) men aged 35–50 living with a partner and with pre- or primary school aged children. The discussions took place in a regional centre of Victoria, Australia. Transcriptions were thematically analysed using an inductive descriptive approach and with reference to a recent integrated framework of food choice that identified five key interrelated determinants: food– internal factors; food– external factors; personal-state factors; cognitive factors; and sociocultural factors.

Results

We found that food choice was complex, with all five determinants evident from the discussions. However, the “Social environment” sub-category of “Food-external factors”, which included family, work, and social structures, and expectations (or perceived expectations) of family members, colleagues, friends, and others, was particularly prominent. Knowledge that one should practice healthy eating, which falls under the “Cognitive factor” category, while seen as an aspiration by most participants, was often viewed as unrealistic, trumped by the need and/or desire for convenience, a combination of Food-external factor: Social environment and Personal-state factor: Psychological components.

Conclusions

We found that decisions regarding what, when, and how much to eat are seen as heavily influenced by factors outside the control of the individual. It appears, therefore, that a key to improving people’s eating behaviours is to make it easy to eat more healthfully, or at least not much harder than eating poorly.
Summary of clinical investigation plan for The DIATEC trial: in-hospital diabetes management by a diabetes team and continuous glucose monitoring or point of care glucose testing – a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Olsen Mikkel Thor , Klarskov Carina Kirstine , Pedersen-Bjergaard Ulrik , Hansen Katrine Bagge , Kristensen Peter Lommer
Published: May 2024

Background

Worldwide, up to 20 % of hospitalised patients have diabetes mellitus. In-hospital dysglycaemia increases patient mortality, morbidity, and length of hospital stay. Improved in-hospital diabetes management strategies are needed. The DIATEC trial investigates the effects of an in-hospital diabetes team and operational insulin titration algorithms based on either continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data or standard point-of-care (POC) glucose testing.

Methods

This is a two-armed, two-site, prospective randomised open-label blinded endpoint (PROBE) trial. We recruit non-critically ill hospitalised general medical and orthopaedic patients with type 2 diabetes treated with basal, prandial, and correctional insulin (N = 166).

In both arms, patients are monitored by POC glucose testing and diabetes management is done by ward nurses guided by in-hospital diabetes teams. In one of the arms, patients are monitored in addition to POC glucose testing by telemetric CGM viewed by the in-hospital diabetes teams only. The in-hospital diabetes teams have operational algorithms to titrate insulin in both arms. Outcomes are in-hospital glycaemic and clinical outcomes.

Discussion

The DIATEC trial will show the glycaemic and clinical effects of in-hospital CGM handled by in-hospital diabetes teams with access to operational insulin titration algorithms in non-critically ill patients with type 2 diabetes. The DIATEC trial seeks to identify which hospitalised patients will benefit from CGM and in-hospital diabetes teams compared to POC glucose testing. This is essential information to optimise the use of healthcare resources before broadly implementing in-hospital CGM and diabetes teams.

Trial registration

Prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with identification number NCT05803473 on March 27th 2023.
The effect of supplementation with rubber seed kernel pellet on in vitro rumen fermentation characteristics and fatty acid profiles in swamp buffalo
Authors: Gunun Nirawan , Kaewpila Chatchai , Khota Waroon , Kimprasit Thachawech , Cherdthong Anusorn , Gunun Pongsatorn
Published: May 2024

Background

Rubber seed kernel is a by-product derived from rubber tree plantations. It is rich in C18 unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) and has the potential to be used as a protein source for ruminant diets. This investigation has been conducted to determine the influence of rubber seed kernel pellet (RUSKEP) supplementation on in vitro rumen fermentation characteristics and fatty acid profiles in swamp buffalo. Using a completely randomized design (CRD) and supplementation of RUSKEP at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10% dry matter (DM) of substrate.

Results

The supplementation with RUSKEP had no effect on gas kinetics, cumulative gas production, or degradability. Ruminal pH decreased linearly (P < 0.01) and ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N) concentration decreased quadratically (P < 0.01) by RUSKEP supplementation. The proportion of acetate (C2) decreased linearly (P < 0.01), but propionate (C3) and butyrate (C4) increased linearly (P < 0.01), resulting in a decrease in the acetate to propionate ratio (C2:C3) (P < 0.01) by RUSKEP supplementation. With an increasing level of dietary RUSKEP, there was a slight increase in UFA in the rumen by increasing the oleic acid (OA; C18:1 cis-9 + trans-9), linoleic acid (LA; C18:2 cis-9,12 + trans-9,12), and α-linolenic acid (ALA; C18:3 cis-9,12,15) concentrations (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Adding up to 10% of RUSKEP could improve in vitro rumen fermentation and C18 unsaturated fatty acids, especially ALA, in swamp buffalo.
Transcriptomics reveals dynamic changes in the “gene profiles” of rat supraspinatus tendon at three different time points after diabetes induction
Authors: Xu Kuishuai , Zhang Liang , Wang Tianrui , Yu Tengbo , Zhao Xia , Zhang Yingze
Published: May 2024

Objective

There is increasing evidence that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an independent risk factor for the occur of tendinopathy. Therefore, this study is the first to explore the dynamic changes of the “gene profile” of supraspinatus tendon in rats at different time points after T2DM induction through transcriptomics, providing potential molecular markers for exploring the pathogenesis of diabetic tendinopathy.

Methods

A total of 40 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal (NG, n = 10) and T2DM groups (T2DM, n = 30) and subdivided into three groups according to the duration of diabetes: T2DM-4w, T2DM-8w, and T2DM-12w groups; the duration was calculated from the time point of T2DM rat model establishment. The three comparison groups were set up in this study, T2DM-4w group vs. NG, T2DM-8w group vs. NG, and T2DM-12w group vs. NG. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in 3 comparison groups were screened. The intersection of the three comparison groups’ DEGs was defined as key genes that changed consistently in the supraspinatus tendon after diabetes induction. Cluster analysis, gene ontology (GO) functional annotation analysis and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) functional annotation and enrichment analysis were performed for DEGs.

Results

T2DM-4w group vs. NG, T2DM-8w group vs. NG, and T2DM-12w group vs. NG detected 519 (251 up-regulated and 268 down-regulated), 459 (342 up-regulated and 117 down-regulated) and 328 (255 up-regulated and 73 down-regulated) DEGs, respectively. 103 key genes of sustained changes in the supraspinatus tendon following induction of diabetes, which are the first identified biomarkers of the supraspinatus tendon as it progresses through the course of diabetes.The GO analysis results showed that the most significant enrichment in biological processes was calcium ion transmembrane import into cytosol (3 DEGs). The most significant enrichment in cellular component was extracellular matrix (9 DEGs). The most significant enrichment in molecular function was glutamate-gated calcium ion channel activity (3 DEGs). The results of KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that there were 17 major pathways (p < 0.05) that diabetes affected supratinusculus tendinopathy, including cAMP signaling pathway and Calcium signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Transcriptomics reveals dynamic changes in the“gene profiles”of rat supraspinatus tendon at three different time points after diabetes induction. The 103 DEGs identified in this study may provide potential molecular markers for exploring the pathogenesis of diabetic tendinopathy, and the 17 major pathways enriched in KEGG may provide new ideas for exploring the pathogenesis of diabetic tendinopathy.
Leveraging malaria vaccines and mRNA technology to tackle the global inequity in pharmaceutical research and production towards disease elimination
Authors: Amimo Floriano
Published: May 2024

Malaria vaccine introduction in endemic countries is a game-changing milestone in the fight against the disease. This article examines the inequity in the global pharmaceutical research, development, manufacturing, and trade landscape. The role of inequity in hindering progress towards malaria elimination is explored. The analysis finds that transformational changes are required to create an equity-enabling environment. Addressing the inequity is critical to maximizing the public health impact of vaccines and attaining sustainability. Avenues to catalyze progress by leveraging malaria vaccines and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) technology are discussed.
Positive feedback regulation between glycolysis and histone lactylation drives oncogenesis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Fei , Si Wenzhe , Xia Li , Yin Deshan , Wei Tianjiao , Tao Ming , Cui Xiaona , Yang Jin , Hong Tianpei , Wei Rui
Published: May 2024

Background

Metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic alterations contribute to the aggressiveness of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Lactate-dependent histone modification is a new type of histone mark, which links glycolysis metabolite to the epigenetic process of lactylation. However, the role of histone lactylation in PDAC remains unclear.

Methods

The level of histone lactylation in PDAC was identified by western blot and immunohistochemistry, and its relationship with the overall survival was evaluated using a Kaplan-Meier survival plot. The participation of histone lactylation in the growth and progression of PDAC was confirmed through inhibition of histone lactylation by glycolysis inhibitors or lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) knockdown both in vitro and in vivo. The potential writers and erasers of histone lactylation in PDAC were identified by western blot and functional experiments. The potential target genes of H3K18 lactylation (H3K18la) were screened by CUT&Tag and RNA-seq analyses. The candidate target genes TTK protein kinase (TTK) and BUB1 mitotic checkpoint serine/threonine kinase B (BUB1B) were validated through ChIP-qPCR, RT-qPCR and western blot analyses. Next, the effects of these two genes in PDAC were confirmed by knockdown or overexpression. The interaction between TTK and LDHA was identified by Co-IP assay.

Results

Histone lactylation, especially H3K18la level was elevated in PDAC, and the high level of H3K18la was associated with poor prognosis. The suppression of glycolytic activity by different kinds of inhibitors or LDHA knockdown contributed to the anti-tumor effects of PDAC in vitro and in vivo. E1A binding protein p300 (P300) and histone deacetylase 2 were the potential writer and eraser of histone lactylation in PDAC cells, respectively. H3K18la was enriched at the promoters and activated the transcription of mitotic checkpoint regulators TTK and BUB1B. Interestingly, TTK and BUB1B could elevate the expression of P300 which in turn increased glycolysis. Moreover, TTK phosphorylated LDHA at tyrosine 239 (Y239) and activated LDHA, and subsequently upregulated lactate and H3K18la levels.

Conclusions

The glycolysis-H3K18la-TTK/BUB1B positive feedback loop exacerbates dysfunction in PDAC. These findings delivered a new exploration and significant inter-relationship between lactate metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic regulation, which might pave the way toward novel lactylation treatment strategies in PDAC therapy.
Engaging communities as partners in health crisis response: a realist-informed scoping review for research and policy
Authors: Sahani Mateus Kambale , Maat Harro , Balabanova Dina , Woldie Mirkuzie , Richards Paul ,   PARES Research Group, Babawo Lawrence S , Berhanu Negalign , Koenraadt Sander , Makonene Diribe , Mayhew Susannah H , Mohan Vikas , Mokuwa Esther , Namakula Justine , Ngunjiri Edith , Ssengooba Freddie , Sseviiri Hakimu , Twinomuhangi Revocatus , Vandi Ahmed , Mayhew Susannah
Published: May 2024

Background

Health is increasingly affected by multiple types of crises. Community engagement is recognised as being a critical element in successful crisis response, and a number of conceptual frameworks and global guideline documents have been produced. However, little is known about the usefulness of such documents and whether they contain sufficient information to guide effective community engagement in crisis response. We undertake a scoping review to examine the usefulness of conceptual literature and official guidelines on community engagement in crisis response using a realist-informed analysis [exploring contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes(CMOs)]. Specifically, we assess the extent to which sufficient detail is provided on specific health crisis contexts, the range of mechanisms (actions) that are developed and employed to engage communities in crisis response and the outcomes achieved. We also consider the extent of analysis of interactions between the mechanisms and contexts which can explain whether successful outcomes are achieved or not.

Scope and findings

We retained 30 documents from a total of 10,780 initially identified. Our analysis found that available evidence on context, mechanism and outcomes on community engagement in crisis response, or some of their elements, was promising, but few documents provided details on all three and even fewer were able to show evidence of the interactions between these categories, thus leaving gaps in understanding how to successfully engage communities in crisis response to secure impactful outcomes. There is evidence that involving community members in all the steps of response increases community resilience and helps to build trust. Consistent communication with the communities in time of crisis is the key for effective responses and helps to improve health indicators by avoiding preventable deaths.

Conclusions

Our analysis confirms the complexity of successful community engagement and the need for strategies that help to deal with this complexity to achieve good health outcomes. Further primary research is needed to answer questions of how and why specific mechanisms, in particular contexts, can lead to positive outcomes, including what works and what does not work and how to measure these processes.