bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the characteristics, methods and reporting of systematic reviews with meta-analyses of time-to-event outcomes: a meta-epidemiological study
Authors: Goldkuhle Marius , Hirsch Caroline , Iannizzi Claire , Zorger Ana-Mihaela , Bender Ralf , van Dalen Elvira C. , Hemkens Lars G. , Monsef Ina , Kreuzberger Nina , Skoetz Nicole
Published: November 2024

Background

Time-to-event analysis is associated with methodological complexities. Previous research identified flaws in the reporting of time-to-event analyses in randomized trial publications. These hardships impose challenges for meta-analyses of time-to-event outcomes based on aggregate data. We examined the characteristics, reporting and methods of systematic reviews including such analyses.

Methods

Through a systematic search (02/2017-08/2020), we identified 50 Cochrane Reviews with ≥ 1 meta-analysis based on the hazard ratio (HR) and a corresponding random sample (n = 50) from core clinical journals (Medline; 08/02/2021). Data was extracted in duplicate and included outcome definitions, general and time-to-event specific methods and handling of time-to-event relevant trial characteristics.

Results

The included reviews analyzed 217 time-to-event outcomes (Median: 2; IQR 1–2), most frequently overall survival (41%). Outcome definitions were provided for less than half of time-to-event outcomes (48%). Few reviews specified general methods, e.g., included analysis types (intention-to-treat, per protocol) (35%) and adjustment of effect estimates (12%). Sources that review authors used for retrieval of time-to-event summary data from publications varied substantially. Most frequently reported were direct inclusion of HRs (64%) and reference to established guidance without further specification (46%). Study characteristics important to time-to-event analysis, such as variable follow-up, informative censoring or proportional hazards, were rarely reported. If presented, complementary absolute effect estimates calculated based on the pooled HR were incorrectly calculated (14%) or correct but falsely labeled (11%) in several reviews.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that limitations in reporting of trial time-to-event analyses translate to the review level as well. Inconsistent reporting of meta-analyses of time-to-event outcomes necessitates additional reporting standards.
How power and knowledge hierarchies affect communication in intrapartum care: findings from public health facilities in two southern Indian districts
Authors: Rao Abha , Srinidhi V. , Karachiwala Baneen , Santosh Sanjana , Seshadri Shreelata Rao , Thomas Sophia , Chattopadhyay Sreeparna , Sreevathsa Anuradha , Sen Gita
Published: November 2024

Background

Effective communication is a key element of medical care; it can foster a warm interpersonal relationship, facilitate the exchange of information, and enable shared decision-making. In the context of obstetric care, it is associated with a range of positive clinical and social outcomes for mother and baby. Extant communication frameworks and respectful maternity care (RMC) guidelines emphasize the importance of effective communication during intrapartum care. Yet, studies conducted in Indian public health settings suggest that there are gaps in the implementation of RMC guidelines.

Methods

As part of a larger study on disrespect and abuse in Indian public hospitals, we studied the nature of communication in the intrapartum context and the extent to which it is respectful. The study is based on interviews with 29 providers across different levels of public health facilities. Interviews were translated, transcribed, and thematically coded. We examined codes related to communication to understand what kinds of communication occur during intrapartum care and the role played by knowledge and power hierarchies. We then considered their implications for RMC.

Results

We identified four types of communication that occurred in the context of intrapartum care: (a) compassionate, to comfort and support the laboring woman, (b) factual, to obtain or provide information or updates, (c) prescriptive, to obtain consent and cooperation from the woman and her family members, and (d) defensive, to protect against accusations of poor care. Knowledge and power hierarchies operated differently in each type of communication, with prescriptive and defensive communication more likely to be disrespectful than others.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that successful implementation of RMC guidelines requires greater attention to knowledge and power hierarchies, and an understanding of the ways in which they operate in a clinical setting. Integrating this understanding into guidelines, medical education, training programmes, and interventions will facilitate effective and respectful communication during maternity care.
Associations between ethnicity and mental health problems among children and adolescents in the United Kingdom: A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Guan Shengjia , Coughlan Barry , Evans Kate , Duschinsky Robbie
Published: November 2024

Background

The associations between ethnicity and mental health problems (MHPs) among children and adolescents in the UK have been reported in recent years. However, this is the first review to compare and synthesise these associations and provides a deep understanding of child MHPs across ethnic groups in the UK.

Method

A comprehensive literature search across seven electronic databases and fifteen websites was conducted. The inclusion criteria focused on studies reporting quantitative associations between ethnicity and MHPs for children and adolescents aged 0–19 residing in the UK. Given the high heterogeneity of the studies, a narrative synthesis was adopted to analyse the associations.

Results

Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, involving a total of 48,281 participants. The review reports no significant differences in the risk of experiencing general MHPs among children from Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Black Caribbean groups compared to their White British counterparts. However, Black African children were less likely to develop general MHPs, while children in the Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Black Caribbean groups showed a higher risk for internalising problems. Externalising and conduct problems were similarly likely among children from Pakistani and Bangladeshi backgrounds compared to White children, with Black Caribbean children showing a higher likelihood of these issues.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that most ethnic minority children and adolescents in the UK have comparable risks of MHPs to their White counterparts, although specific risks vary by ethnicity and MHP types. The results underscore the need for multifaceted analyses considering socioeconomic and cultural factors, beyond simple ethnic categorisations, to inform mental health services that effectively meet the diverse needs of the UK’s child population. This review calls for more detailed and uniform categorisation in future research to understand and address the mental health disparities across different ethnic groups.
Clinical and radiographic evaluation of non-surgical therapy with and without ozone gel application in controlled type 2 diabetic patients with periodontitis: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Barahim Abeer Abubaker , Shemais Nesma , Mousa Arwa , Darhous Mona
Published: November 2024

Background

The current study aimed to assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the effect of subgingival application of ozonated gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in diabetic patients with stage III periodontitis.

Methods

Twenty-four patients with type II diabetes mellitus (DM) were randomized into two groups, with 12 patients in each group. Group I served as the intervention group, receiving both SRP and ozone gel application (SRP + Ozone), while Group II served as the control group, undergoing SRP alone. Clinical attachment level was evaluated as primary outcome, with secondary outcomes including probing pocket depth, full mouth plaque score, full mouth bleeding score, dentinal hypersensitivity, radiographic linear defect depth, radiographic defect angle, and periodontal ligament widening space assessed at 3 and 6 months.

Results

The results revealed statistically significant intragroup differences between the two groups (p < 0.05). In contrast, intergroup differences revealed no statistically significant difference across the various time intervals (p > 0.05). The reduction in PD in the SRP + Ozone group at three months was statistically significant (p = 0.04). The SRP + Ozone group showed a significant radiographic improvement compared to the SRP group. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) also demonstrated statistically significant differences between the two groups. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) significantly decreased after 6 months, with no significant signifcant differences between groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Ozone gel is suggested to be a promising potential natural adjunctive therapy for diabetic patients to enhance periodontal health, with no reported adverse effects.

Trial registration

ID: NCT05538078, Date of Registration: 09/09/2022. (https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/DownloadReceipt?uid=U0006D54&ts=3&sid=S000CGX4&cx=g1wreh).
The golden genome annotation of Ganoderma lingzhi reveals a more complex scenario of eukaryotic gene structure and transcription activity
Authors: Wang Lining , Shi Peiqi , Ping Zhaohua , Huang Qinghua , Jiang Liqun , Ma Nianfang , Wang Qingfu , Xu Jiang , Zou Yajie , Huang Zhihai
Published: November 2024

Background

It is generally accepted that nuclear genes in eukaryotes are located independently on chromosomes and expressed in a monocistronic manner. However, accumulating evidence suggests a more complex landscape of gene structure and transcription. Ganoderma lingzhi, a model medicinal fungus, currently lacks high-quality genome annotation, hindering genetic studies.

Results

Here, we reported a golden annotation of G. lingzhi, featuring 14,147 high-confidence genes derived from extensive manual corrections. Novel characteristics of gene structure and transcription were identified accordingly. Notably, non-canonical splicing sites accounted for 1.99% of the whole genome, with the predominant types being GC-AG (1.85%), GT-AC (0.05%), and GT-GG (0.04%). 1165 pairs of genes were found to have overlapped transcribed regions, and 92.19% of which showed opposite directions of gene transcription. A total of 5,412,158 genetic variations were identified among 13 G. lingzhi strains, and the manually corrected gene sets resulted in enhanced functional annotation of these variations. More than 60% of G. lingzhi genes were alternatively spliced. In addition, we found that two or more protein-coding genes (PCGs) can be transcribed into a single RNA molecule, referred to as polycistronic genes. In total, 1272 polycistronic genes associated with 2815 PCGs were identified.

Conclusions

The widespread presence of polycistronic genes in G. lingzhi strongly complements the theory that polycistron is also present in eukaryotic genomes. The extraordinary gene structure and transcriptional activity uncovered through this golden annotation provide implications for the study of genes, genomes, and related studies in G. lingzhi and other eukaryotes.
Development of a clinical metagenomics workflow for the diagnosis of wound infections
Authors: Halford Carl , Le Viet Thanh , Edge Katie , Russell Paul , Moore Nathan , Trim Fiona , Moragues-Solanas Lluis , Lukaszewski Roman , Weller Simon A. , Gilmour Matthew
Published: November 2024

Background

Wound infections are a common complication of injuries negatively impacting the patient’s recovery, causing tissue damage, delaying wound healing, and possibly leading to the spread of the infection beyond the wound site. The current gold-standard diagnostic methods based on microbiological testing are not optimal for use in austere medical treatment facilities due to the need for large equipment and the turnaround time. Clinical metagenomics (CMg) has the potential to provide an alternative to current diagnostic tests enabling rapid, untargeted identification of the causative pathogen and the provision of additional clinically relevant information using equipment with a reduced logistical and operative burden.

Methods

This study presents the development and demonstration of a CMg workflow for wound swab samples. This workflow was applied to samples prospectively collected from patients with a suspected wound infection and the results were compared to routine microbiology and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results

Wound swab samples were prepared for nanopore-based DNA sequencing in approximately 4 h and achieved sensitivity and specificity values of 83.82% and 66.64% respectively, when compared to routine microbiology testing and species-specific qPCR. CMg also enabled the provision of additional information including the identification of fungal species, anaerobic bacteria, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes and microbial species diversity.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that CMg has the potential to provide an alternative diagnostic method for wound infections suitable for use in austere medical treatment facilities. Future optimisation should focus on increased method automation and an improved understanding of the interpretation of CMg outputs, including robust reporting thresholds to confirm the presence of pathogen species and AMR gene identifications.
Co-occurring mutations identify prognostic subgroups of microsatellite stable colorectal cancer
Authors: Nunes Luís , Stenersen Jakob Mørkved , Kryeziu Kushtrim , Sjöblom Tobias , Glimelius Bengt , Lothe Ragnhild A. , Sveen Anita
Published: November 2024

Background

Co-occurring mutations in pairs of genes can pinpoint clinically relevant subgroups of cancer. Most colorectal cancers (CRCs) are microsatellite stable (MSS) and have few frequent mutations. Large patient cohorts and broad genomic coverage are needed for comprehensive co-mutation profiling.

Methods

Co-mutations were identified in a population-based Swedish cohort analyzed by whole-genome sequencing (n=819 stage I-IV MSS CRCs). Prognostic value was further evaluated in a publicly available dataset of clinically sequenced metastatic CRCs (MSK-IMPACT; n=934 MSS). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses with clinicopathological parameters were performed for locoregional (stage I-III) and metastatic (stage IV and recurrent) cancers separately.

Results

Prevalent co-mutations were detected in 23 unique gene pairs, 20 of which included APC, TP53, KRAS and/or PIK3CA. Several co-mutations involving APC were associated with good overall survival in locoregional CRC, including APC-TCF7L2 (multivariable HR: 0.49, 95% CI 0.27-0.89). This co-mutation was prognostic also in metastatic cancers (multivariable HR: 0.49 and 0.37, 95% CI: 0.24-0.98 and 0.17-0.82 in the Swedish and MSK cohorts, respectively). APC-SOX9 co-mutations were mutually exclusive with APC-TCF7L2, and the co-mutations combined had stronger prognostic associations than APC alone in both metastatic cohorts. BRAF p.V600E-RNF43 co-mutations were associated with poor overall and recurrence-free survival in locoregional CRC (multivariable HR: 4.13 and 3.2, 95% CI: 1.78-9.54 and 1.53-8.04, respectively).

Conclusions

We report a genome-wide evaluation of co-occurring mutations in MSS CRCs, and suggest that co-mutations can improve the prognostic stratification compared to single mutations alone.
Two-year scale-up dissemination study of a multi-strategic community-wide intervention promoting physical activity: a single-arm pre-post hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial
Authors: Tsuzuki Aoi , Kamada Masamitsu , Amagasa Shiho , Kitayuguchi Jun , Miyashita Takuma , Abe Takafumi , Gomi Tatsunosuke , Okuyama Kenta , Taguri Masataka , Inoue Shigeru
Published: November 2024

Background

Intervention trials that have demonstrated significant effects may not always replicate those effects when scaled up. This study aimed to test whether scaling-up a successful cluster randomized trial (the COMMUNICATE study, 9 intervention communities), which promoted population-level physical activity (PA), could promote PA in a broader citywide setting (29 communities) after two years, as a mid-term evaluation of the six-year scaled-up trial.

Methods

This is a single-arm, pre-post comparison of a multi-strategic community-wide intervention covering the entire Unnan City, Japan. The intervention for middle-aged and older people consisted of three components: information delivery, education, and support delivery. The intervention method followed the COMMUNICATE study but adapted and introduced new initiatives tailored to local resources. A baseline survey (n = 3,718) among randomly selected residents aged 40–79 years in 2016 and a follow-up survey with the same respondents two years later were conducted. The primary outcome was the change in the percentage of people who practiced the recommended levels of PA, analyzed with a generalized linear mixed model to account for clusters at individual and community levels. Additionally, we examined the dose–response relation of the effect based on the intervention doses in each community. The RE-AIM framework assessed intervention dissemination and implementation.

Results

The two-year intervention was implemented in all communities, reaching and involving various groups. The rate of people engaged in PA significantly increased in two years (adjusted change: + 8.0 percentage points [95% confidence interval: 6.1, 10.0]). Based on the type of PA, only muscle-strengthening activity showed a significant increase (+ 11.5% points [9.6, 13.5]), whereas walking (-1.8% points [-3.6, 0.1]) and flexibility activities (+ 0.3% points [-1.5, 2.0]) did not. The increase in PA in higher-dose areas was not significantly different but slightly larger than that in lower-dose areas (+ 8.4% points vs. + 7.6% points, adjusted difference in change: 0.8% points [-3.8, 5.5]).

Conclusion

The scaled-up citywide intervention promoted PA, especially muscle-strengthening activity. Collaboration with diverse organizations in different settings is crucial for multi-faceted interventions and requires balancing uncertainty in its implementation quality and quantity owing to collaborative decision-making.

Trial registration

UMIN-CTR, UMIN000024682. Registered 02 November 2016, https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000028377
Cost-effectiveness of high flow nasal cannula therapy versus continuous positive airway pressure for non-invasive respiratory support in paediatric critical care
Authors: Sadique Zia , Zapata Silvia Moler , Grieve Richard , Richards-Belle Alvin , Lawson Izabella , Darnell Robert , Lester Julie , Morris Kevin P. , Tume Lyvonne N. , Davis Peter J. , Peters Mark J. , Feltbower Richard G. , Mouncey Paul R. , Harrison David A. , Rowan Kathryn M. , Ramnarayan Padmanabhan ,   the FIRST-ABC RCT Investigators,   the Paediatric Critical Care Society Study Group
Published: November 2024

Background

High flow nasal cannula therapy (HFNC) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) are two widely used modes of non-invasive respiratory support in paediatric critical care units. The FIRST-ABC randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated the clinical and cost-effectiveness of HFNC compared with CPAP in two distinct critical care populations: acutely ill children (‘step-up’ RCT) and extubated children (‘step-down’ RCT). Clinical effectiveness findings (time to liberation from all forms of respiratory support) showed that HFNC was non-inferior to CPAP in the step-up RCT, but failed to meet non-inferiority criteria in the step-down RCT. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of HFNC versus CPAP.

Methods

All-cause mortality, health-related Quality of Life (HrQoL), and costs up to six months were reported using FIRST-ABC RCTs data. HrQoL was measured with the age-appropriate Paediatric Quality of Life Generic Core Scales questionnaire and mapped onto the Child Health Utility 9D index score at six months. Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) were estimated by combining HrQoL with mortality. Costs at six months were calculated by measuring and valuing healthcare resources used in paediatric critical care units, general medical wards and wider health service. The cost-effectiveness analysis used regression methods to report the cost-effectiveness of HFNC versus CPAP at six months and summarised the uncertainties around the incremental cost-effectiveness results.

Results

In both RCTs, the incremental QALYs at six months were similar between the randomised groups. The estimated incremental cost at six months was − £4565 (95% CI − £11,499 to £2368) and − £5702 (95% CI − £11,328 to − £75) for step-down and step-up RCT, respectively. The incremental net benefits of HFNC versus CPAP in step-down RCT and step-up RCT were £4388 (95% CI − £2551 to £11,327) and £5628 (95% CI − £8 to £11,264) respectively. The cost-effectiveness results were surrounded by considerable uncertainties. The results were similar across most pre-specified subgroups, and the base case results were robust to alternative assumptions.

Conclusions

HFNC compared to CPAP as non-invasive respiratory support for critically-ill children in paediatric critical care units reduces mean costs and is relatively cost-effective overall and for key subgroups, although there is considerable statistical uncertainty surrounding this result.
Hierarchical annotation of eQTLs by H-eQTL enables identification of genes with cell type-divergent regulation
Authors: Przytycki Pawel F. , Pollard Katherine S.
Published: November 2024

While context-type-specific regulation of genes is largely determined by cis-regulatory regions, attempts to identify cell type-specific eQTLs are complicated by the nested nature of cell types. We present hierarchical eQTL (H-eQTL), a network-based model for hierarchical annotation of bulk-derived eQTLs to levels of a cell type tree using single-cell chromatin accessibility data and no clustering of cells into discrete cell types. Using our model, we annotate bulk-derived eQTLs from the developing brain with high specificity to levels of a cell type hierarchy, which allows sensitive detection of genes with multiple distinct non-coding elements regulating their expression in different cell types.
Reconsidering tools for measuring gender dimensions in biomedical research
Authors: Morgan Rosemary , Yin Anna , Kalbarczyk Anna , Shapiro Janna R. , Shea Patrick J. , Kuo Helen , Rodriguez Carmen H. , Rosser Erica N. , Pekosz Andrew , Leng Sean X. , Klein Sabra L.
Published: November 2024

Sex and gender play important roles in contributing to disease and health outcomes and represent essential, but often overlooked, measures in biomedical research. The context-specific, multifaceted, and relational nature of gender norms, roles, and relations (i.e., gender dimensions) make their incorporation into biomedical research challenging. Gender scores—measures of gender dimensions—can help researchers incorporate gender into quantitative methodologies. These measures enable researchers to quantify the gendered dimensions of interest using data collected from survey respondents. To highlight the complexities of using gender scores within biomedical research, we used the application of the Bem Sex Role Inventory (BSRI) scale, a commonly used gender score, to explore gender differences in adverse events to the influenza vaccine among older adults (75+). Within this paper, we focus on the findings from our longitudinal gender score data collected over three influenza seasons (2019-20, 2020-21, and 2021-22), irrespective of adverse event data, to provide commentary on the reliability of gender scores, such as the BSRI, and the complexities of their application. Of the 162 total study participants included within the study, 69 were enrolled in all three consecutive seasons and 35 participants were enrolled in two consecutive seasons. The majority of participants had a different gender score in at least one of the years, demonstrating the nuances and fluidity of gender identity. Interpretations of BSRI data (or other gender score data) when measured against outcome data must, therefore, be time and context specific, as results are unlikely to be replicated across years.
Elevated core temperature in addition to mental fatigue impairs aerobic exercise capacity in highly trained athletes in the heat
Authors: Naito Takashi , Saito Tatsuya , Morinaga Hirotsugu , Eda Nobuhiko , Takai Yohei
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of elevated core temperature by exposure to heat stress vs. heat exposure without elevated core temperature (mean skin temperature only) in addition to mental fatigue on aerobic exercise capacity in the heat. Seven highly trained athletes completed two experimental conditions: elevation in core and skin temperatures (hyperthermia: HYP), and skin temperatures (SKIN). Participants performed the AX-Continuous Performance Task and Stroop Task to induce mental fatigue during a warm water immersion at 40 °C (HYP) and a passive seated heat exposure in a climatic chamber at 35 °C and 60% relative humidity (SKIN) for 45 min before exercise. Thereafter, participants performed running trial at 80% maximal oxygen uptake until voluntary exhaustion in the same chamber as the SKIN. Exercise time to exhaustion was significantly shorter in the HYP trial (538 ± 200 s) than in the SKIN trial (757 ± 324 s). Rectal temperature at the end of tasks in the HYP trial increased by 0.86 ± 0.26℃ and was significantly higher (37.69 ± 0.18℃) than that of the SKIN trial (36.96 ± 0.13℃), albeit no significant differences in mean skin temperature. Self-reported mental fatigue using visual analog scale was significantly higher after tasks in both trials, but no significant difference between trials was found. Throughout the trial, salivary cortisol concentration and perceptual responses were not affected by hyperthermia. This study demonstrated that a combination of high core temperature and mean skin temperature, and mental fatigue limit aerobic exercise capacity in highly trained athletes in hot environments compared with heat exposure without an elevation of core temperature.
GDF15 propeptide promotes bone metastasis of castration-resistant prostate cancer by augmenting the bone microenvironment
Authors: Yamamichi Gaku , Kato Taigo , Arakawa Noriaki , Ino Yoko , Ujike Takeshi , Nakano Kosuke , Koh Yoko , Motoyama Yuichi , Outani Hidetatsu , Myoba Shohei , Ishizuya Yu , Yamamoto Yoshiyuki , Hatano Koji , Kawashima Atsunari , Fukuhara Shinichiro , Uemura Hiroji , Okada Seiji , Morii Eiichi , Nonomura Norio , Uemura Motohide
Published: November 2024

Background

Bone metastasis (BM) is a common and fatal condition in patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). However, there are no useful blood biomarkers for CRPC with BM, and the mechanism underlying BM is unclear. In this study, we investigated precise blood biomarkers for evaluating BM that can improve the prognosis of patients with CRPC.

Methods

We comprehensively examined culture supernatants from four prostate cancer (PCa) cell lines using Orbitrap mass spectrometry to identify specific proteins secreted abundantly by PCa cells. The effects of this protein to PCa cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts were examined, and BM mouse model. In addition, we measured the plasma concentration of this protein in CRPC patients for whom bone scan index (BSI) by bone scintigraphy was performed.

Results

A total of 2,787 proteins were identified by secretome analysis. We focused on GDF15 propeptide (GDPP), which is secreted by osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and PCa cells. GDPP promoted the proliferation, invasion, and migration of PC3 and DU145 CRPC cells, and GDPP aggravated BM in a mouse model. Importantly, GDPP accelerated bone formation and absorption in the bone microenvironment by enhancing the proliferation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts by upregulating individual transcription factors such as RUNX2, OSX, ATF4, NFATc1, and DC-STAMP. In clinical settings, including a total of 416 patients, GDPP was more diagnostic of BM than prostate-specific antigen (PSA) (AUC = 0.92 and 0.78) and the seven other blood biomarkers (alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, bone alkaline phosphatase, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b, osteocalcin, procollagen I N-terminal propeptide and mature GDF15) in patients with CRPC. The changes in BSI over time with systemic treatment were correlated with that of GDPP (r = 0.63) but not with that of PSA (r = -0.16).

Conclusions

GDPP augments the tumor microenvironment of BM and is a novel blood biomarker of BM in CRPC, which could lead to early treatment interventions in patients with CRPC.
Effect of anti-sclerostin antibody on orthodontic tooth movement in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Ahn Hyunna , Park Wonse , Choi Sung-Hwan , Hong Namki , Huh Jisun , Jung Seoyeon
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of systemically administered anti-sclerostin antibodies (Anti-Scl Ab) on orthodontic tooth movements (OTM) in an ovariectomized rat.

Methods

Twenty-four 12-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: (1) ovariectomy (OVX) group, (2) ovariectomy + romosozumab (ROMO) group. OTM was performed 8 weeks after OVX. The ROMO group received subcutaneous injections of romosozumab twice a week, starting two weeks after OVX. Eight weeks after the OVX, an orthodontic force of 50 g was measured and applied by connecting orthodontic elastic bands between the maxillary first molar and a mini-screw to facilitate tooth movement (orthodontic treatment). Subsequently, the three rats were sacrificed on days 5, 7, 10, and 14. The plaster models were scanned to measure the amount of tooth movement. The effects on alveolar bone and periodontal tissues were evaluated through micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) analysis, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis.

Results

The ROMO group showed more tooth movement on day 7 of orthodontic treatment. Conversely, on days 10 and 14, relatively less movement was observed. Analysis of the root furcation area of the maxillary first molars revealed that from the 7th day, BV/TV, Tb.N., Tb.Th. increased, while Tb.Sp. decreased in the ROMO group. More TRAP-positive cells were observed in the compression side of the OVX group, the ROMO group exhibited a marked decrease in the positive expression of the RANKL, OPG, and sclerostin. The OPG/RANKL ratio showed significant differences in expression between the two groups. The ROMO group exhibited a higher OPG/RANKL ratio than the OVX group, and the tension side exhibited a higher OPG/RANKL ratio demonstrating significant differences.

Conclusion

Romosozumab initially accelerated tooth movements, but later decreased tooth movement. As new alveolar bone is formed, the micro-CT parameters are also improved. Osteoclasts, RANKL, OPG, and sclerostin decreased, while the OPG/RANKL ratio became higher.
Comprehensive assessment of COVID-19 case fatality rate and influential factors in Khuzestan Province, Iran: a two-year study
Authors: Bastani Mohammad-Navid , Makvandi Manoochehr , Moradi Maryam , Haghighi Somayeh Biparva , Rostami Maryam , Nasimzadeh Sepideh , Amiri Homayoun , Alavi Seyed Mohammad , Rashno Mohammad , Mohtadi Ahmadreza , Yousefi Farid , Fayezi Abbas , Mirkarimi Mohammadreza , Shoushtari Maryam Haddadzadeh , Zadkarami Masoud , Balar Negin , Sameii Siamak Mirab , Torabizadeh Mehdi
Published: November 2024

Background

The emergence of a new pandemic SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) resulted in a high mortality rate across the world. This study sought to comprehensively analyze the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) associated with COVID-19 in the Khuzestan province of Iran”. The primary objective was to discern patterns and determinants influencing CFR, shedding light on the evolving impact of the pandemic on morbidity and mortality.

Methods

A retrospective examination was performed on a dataset encompassing confirmed COVID-19 cases and related fatalities in Khuzestan. Data, spanning from December 2020 to April 2022, underwent rigorous statistical analysis. Demographic variables, comorbidities, and temporal trends were scrutinized to identify key factors influencing CFR.

Results

Preliminary findings revealed dynamic shifts in CFR, capturing the nuanced nature of the pandemic over time. Demographic nuances, particularly age and gender, emerged as significant determinants impacting CFR, the reported CFR of COVID-19 in Khuzestan province was 1.79%.

Conclusion

This study contributes critical insights into the CFR landscape of COVID-19 in Khuzestan, providing a foundation for evidence-based decision-making in public health. The identified factors influencing mortality rates offer valuable information for tailoring interventions and optimizing resource allocation. Continuous monitoring and further investigations are recommended to adapt strategies to the evolving nature of the pandemic.
Exploring the potential of curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles for angiogenesis and antioxidant proficiency in zebrafish embryo (Danio rerio)
Authors: Singha Achinta , Harshitha Mave , Kalladka Krithika , Chakraborty Gunimala , Maiti Biswajit , Satyaprasad Akshath Uchangi , Chakraborty Anirban , Sil Samir Kumar
Published: November 2024

Background

Curcumin is an age old traditional medicine. Although curcumin has several advantages, its water solubility and bioavailability limit its use as a natural therapeutic agent. Polymeric nano curcumin could be an excellent option to overcome these challenges to augment its therapeutic efficacy. This work aimed to synthesize curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles and assess their angiogenic and antioxidant potential in the zebrafish model.

Results

The double emulsion solvent evaporation process was employed to make curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles. Curcumin showed ~ 28.23 (± 2.49) encapsulation efficacy with an average diameter of PLGA nanoparticles 168.5 (± 2.5) nm and curcumin nanoparticles about 281.6 (± 17.2) nm, respectively. The curcumin nanoparticles showed no developmental toxicity to the zebrafish embryos while reduced toxicity compared to the native curcumin. Further, the curcumin nanoparticles reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species and improved angiogenesis in the model system. All these results confirmed that the nanoparticle has had higher bio-efficacy than that of native curcumin.

Conclusion

This study shows that PLGA curcumin nanoparticles hold an excellent therapeutic promise for wound healing, tissue regeneration and other biomedical applications where angiogenesis and ROS play critical role.
Anatomical variations and their impact on chronic rhinosinusitis: a retrospective analysis from an Indonesian tertiary hospital
Authors: Maharani Iriana , Putri Giovani I. G.
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammation of the paranasal sinus mucosa lasting over 12 weeks. Its etiology includes infections, allergies, immune system failures, anatomical abnormalities, and mucociliary transport disorders. The complex anatomy of the sinonasal region can hinder mucociliary drainage; necessitating CT scans to evaluate predisposing factors and minimize surgical risks. This study aimed to understand the anatomical variations in the paranasal sinuses and their correlation with CRS.

Results

The study included 128 CRS patients aged 20 to 75, averaging 36.2 years. The most common symptoms were nasal congestion (98%), runny nose (85%), facial pressure (57%), reduced sense of smell (53%), and posterior nasal discharge (43%). Maxillary rhinosinusitis was the most prevalent (88%), followed by ethmoid (84%), frontal (58%), and sphenoid (48%) rhinosinusitis. Anatomical variations were present in 96% of patients, with deviated nasal septum (81.3%), agger nasi pneumatization (73.4%), and frontoethmoidal cells (60.2%) being the most common. Logistic regression indicated a significant association between concha bullosa and maxillary rhinosinusitis (p < 0.05). No significant correlation was found between anatomical variations number and SNOT-22 scores (r = − 0.177, p > 0.05).

Conclusion

This study found a high prevalence of anatomical variations in CRS patients, with deviated nasal septum, agger nasi pneumatization, and frontoethmoidal cells being the most common. A significant association was identified between concha bullosa and maxillary rhinosinusitis.
Wangechi Mutu’s Ecofeminist Vision in The End of Eating Everything
Authors: Okeke-Agulu Chika
Published: November 2024

Commentators on Wangechi Mutu’s enigmatic animated video The End of Eating Everything (2015) claim that it depicts a gluttonous monster-woman with an insatiable appetite, devouring hapless birds. It is seen as a commentary on threat posed by ruthless global forces represented by the beast with a beautiful Black woman’s face. This article argues, instead, that the woman represents violated and polluted Earth, a victim of carnivorous birds, who, in turn, represent the devastating agents of industrial pollution and rampant consumption. This work testifies to the artist’s interest in and identification with African ecofeminism and its damning and dark prognostication of what is bound to happen to dirtied, uncleaned, abused Earth.
Visibility and the Politics of Representation at the 60th Venice Biennale
Authors: Clarke Christa
Published: November 2024

This article considers what the African presence at the 2024 Venice Biennale says about visibility and the politics of representation related to broader shifts in the global cultural landscape. It offers an overview of the main exhibition, Stranieri Ovunque—Foreigners Everywhere, curated by Adriano Pedrosa, suggesting that it may be seen as both conceptually canon-expanding and structurally center-affirming. It also discusses the curatorial frames and strategies of self-definition of a select group of first-time and returning national pavilions: Benin, South Africa, Uganda, and Nigeria. The article highlights how artists and pavilion organizers from Africa at the Venice Biennale are increasingly using this historic platform strategically to make change by challenging its representational structure, foregrounding African-based knowledge systems, and investing in culture and institution building on the continent.
Exploding the Canon
Authors: Lathrop Perrin M.
Published: November 2024

This article assesses the stakes, execution, and implications of Adriano Pedrosa’s intervention into the history of global modernism in Foreigners Everywhere, his 2024 edition of the Venice Biennale, with a focus on the biennale’s representation of artists from Africa and its diasporas. It examines the biennale’s presentation of these artists in its Nucleo Contemporaneo, including its pairing of the paintings of Brazilian artist Rubem Valentim with Mozambique-born Bertina Lopes and the batik textile compositions of Austria-born Susanne Wenger with those by Nigerian artist Ṣàngódáre Gbádégẹsin Àjàlá as successful case studies of the biennale’s aims to center the Global South in the history of modernism. It critiques the effectiveness of the main exhibition’s Nucleo Storico on portraiture and abstraction for effacing differences between the art worlds occupied by the artists on view and enabling surface-level over deep engagement with the creative contributions of these artists and the transnational networks from which their practices emerged.
Of Simple Cells and Visual Associations in Photobook Editing
Authors: van der Heijden Teun
Published: November 2024

The first thing one does when one looks at a photograph is try to understand what it means. One immediately starts looking for clues. This might be connected to how people learn to read. Each letter in a semiotic alphabet has a specific meaning. Although letters have been derived from a logographic origin, over time they have lost their original connotation. Letters became parts of a code. In order to be fluent in the usage of the code it is important to understand the meaning of its parts. As a photobook designer and visual storyteller, the author of this article has always felt limited by this tendency of looking for meaning—an activity that distracts from quietly looking at a photograph and enjoying its mood, lighting, texture, or color. This essay explores the author's process of editing photographs into photobooks through the lens of neuroscience and the concept of simple cells. It provides several case studies, with a focus on Poulomi Basu's Centralia.
Dynamic remodelling of the endoplasmic reticulum for mitosis
Authors: Kors Suzan , Schlaitz Anne-Lore
Published: November 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a dynamic and continuous membrane network with roles in many cellular processes. The importance and maintenance of ER structure and function have been extensively studied in interphase cells, yet recent findings also indicate crucial roles of the ER in mitosis. During mitosis, the ER is remodelled significantly with respect to composition and morphology but persists as a continuous network. The ER interacts with microtubules, actin and intermediate filaments, and concomitant with the mitotic restructuring of all cytoskeletal systems, ER dynamics and distribution change. The ER is a metabolic hub and several examples of altered ER functions during mitosis have been described. However, we lack an overall understanding of the ER metabolic pathways and functions that are active during mitosis. In this Review, we will discuss mitotic changes to the ER at different organizational levels to explore how the mitotic ER, with its distinct properties, might support cell division.
Ο Άγιος Λουκάς, ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος Συμφερουπόλεως
Authors: Σιόντης Κωνσταντίνος
Published: November 2024

Ο Άγιος Λουκάς ήταν μία προσωπικότητα που συνδύασε την Θεολογία με την Ιατρική εκφράζοντας και τα δύο με μεγάλη δεινότητα. Ο βίος του ήταν συγκλονιστικός διότι έζησε σε μία ταραγμένη πολιτικά και κοινωνικά εποχή και αντιμετώπισε πολλά εμπόδια, δυσκολίες και διώξεις. Αυτό δεν τον σταμάτησε όμως από το να μεγαλουργήσει στην ιατρική και μέσα από την καθημερινή του προσπάθεια να γιατρέψει τους ανθρώπους, εκφράζοντας με αυτό το τρόπο την φιλανθρωπία του Θεού. Επιπρόσθετα, οδηγήθηκε σε πολλές ανακαλύψεις και καινοτομίες που χρησιμοποιούνται μέχρι και σήμερα στην ιατρική. Ο Άγιος Λουκάς είναι το ζωντανό και διαχρονικό παράδειγμα για το πως η συνάντηση της Θεολογίας με την Ιατρική, μπορεί να συμβάλλει στην πρόοδο της επιστήμης και της ανθρωπότητας.
Μεταβολές στο χρόνο του προφίλ ασθενών που υποβάλλονται σε αορτοστεφανιαία παράκαμψη
Authors: Παττακός Γρηγόριος
Published: November 2024

Σκοπός: Ο σκοπός της μελέτης ήταν να αναλυθούν οι αλλαγές στο προφίλ κινδύνου και τα μετεγχειρητικά αποτελέσματα στους ασθενείς που υποβλήθηκαν σε αορτοστεφανιαία παράκαμψη από το 1997 έως το 2019 σε τριτοβάθμιο νοσοκομείο.Μέθοδοι: Τα προεγχειρητικά στοιχεία των ασθενών, οι συννοσηρότητες, τα δεδομένα της επέμβασης και τα μετεγχειρητικά στοιχεία των ασθενών που υποβλήθηκαν σε αορτοστεφανιαία παράκαμψη αναλύθηκαν από την βάση δεδομένων που διατηρεί το νοσοκομείο. Η στατιστική ανάλυση με το πρόγραμμα R ανέδειξε τις τάσεις και τις αλλαγές στον χρόνο τόσο του προφίλ των ασθενών αλλά και στην θνητότητα, τις μετεγχειρητικές επιπλοκές, και τις τεχνικές λεπτομέρειες τις επέμβασης. Αποτελέσματα: 14.235 ασθενείς υποβλήθηκαν σε αορτοστεφανιαία παράκαμψη από 1-1-1997 έως τις 31-12-2019. Ο αριθμός των επεμβάσεων μειώθηκε σημαντικά κατά τη διάρκεια του χρόνου της μελέτης (1071 το 1997 έναντι 401 το 2019). Οι περισσότερες συννοσηρότητες αυξήθηκαν κατά τη διάρκεια της μελέτης. Αύξηση παρατηρήθηκε στα εξής δεδομένα: ηλικία των ασθενών (από 64 σε 66 έτη), το ποσοστό ανδρών (από 85%σε 89%), ποσοστό διαβητικών (35,3% έναντι 43,5%), και το ποσοστό των υπερτασικών (48,6% έναντι 82,2%). Η χρήση αρτηριακών μοσχευμάτων αυξήθηκε με την χρήση μαστικής να αυξάνεται από 90,4% στο 94,0%, χρήση κερκιδικής από 0% να φτάνει το 40,9% και χρήση δύο μαστικών να αυξάνεται από 0,2% στο 21,8%. Δεν παρατηρήθηκαν στατιστικά σημαντικές διαφορές στη θνητότητα. Η θνητότητα κυμάνθηκε από 0.53% έως 2,50% κατά τη διάρκεια της μελέτης. Δεν παρατηρήθηκαν σημαντικές διαφορές στις ενδονοσοκομειακές καρδιακές επιπλοκές ( 4,9% το 1997 και 4,8% το 2019 (p=0.07)). Σταθερά ήταν και τα ποσοστά των ασθενών με ενδονοσοκομειακές νευρολογικές επιπλοκές ( 2,0% το 1997 και 1,1% το 2018 (p=0.30)). Υπήρξε αύξηση στις ενδονοσοκομειακές νεφρικές επιπλοκές από το 1,3% το 1997 στο 4,2% το 2019 (p<0.001). Το ποσοστό των ενδονοσοκομειακών πνευμονικών επιπλοκών επίσης αυξήθηκε από το 0,9% το 1997 στο 3,5% το 2019 (p<0.001). Μείωση παρατηρήθηκε στο ποσοστό των ενδονοσοκομειακών μετεγχειρητικών λοιμώξεων ( 1,3% το 1997 έναντι 0,3% το 2019 (p=0.03).Συμπεράσματα: Οι επεμβάσεις αορτοστεφανιαίας παράκαμψης έχουν μειωθεί σε αριθμό τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες. Ο πληθυσμός των ασθενών που υποβάλλονται στην αορτοστεφανιαία παράκαμψη παρουσιάζει πιο δύσκολο προφίλ συννοσηροτήτων με αυξημένο κίνδυνο. Παρά αυτά τα δεδομένα τα αποτελέσματα παραμένουν ενθαρρυντικά , γεγονός πιθανώς οφειλόμενο στην αυξημένη χρήση αρτηριακών μοσχευμάτων.
ANALYSIS OF THE APPLICATION OF CODE-LOCATION POSITIONING IN THE EASTERN DIRECTION OF THE WEST SIBERIAN RAILWAY
Authors: Shugaev Oleg V. , Pokrovskaya Oksana D. , Pochetukha Vasily V. , Lemikhov Sergey V.
Published: November 2024

The presented research paper with a scientific bias is devoted to the analysis of the application of the system of code-location positioning of rolling stock on the stretch of the Eastern direction of the West Siberian Railway. The article describes the subject and object of research, includes the sequence of individual stages of research with justification and data processing.  The publication is conditionally divided into 2 parts, the first is devoted to the methodology of research, the description of the research process, input data and a structural description of individual elements of the interval control system. The mathematical apparatus includes statistical methods for processing data adjusted for the current conditions of the experiment. The determination of throughput and processing capacity was carried out using a foreign method and the author's methodology for evaluating the efficiency of the distillation. The conclusion of the first section of the article indicates the need to use the presented mathematical apparatus. The second part of this publication contains the results of research with conclusions.   The uniqueness of the experiment consists in dividing the research part into several separate stages and conducting them for several months on the current stretch of the main line. The first stage of research is devoted to the accuracy of determining the location of rolling stock using a code-location positioning system. The second stage contains an assessment of changes in throughput and carrying capacity on a separate loaded stretch of the Eastern direction of the West Siberian Railway. The final stage of the experiment contains an assessment of the study of the response rate of the proposed motion control system. The results of the research and the summary of the entire work are located in the final part of the publication, which includes analysis and analysis of the experiment. The final section describes recommendations for improving operating conditions using the data obtained and the author's assessment of the effectiveness of the rolling stock code-location positioning system on a separate stretch of the main line section of the Eastern direction of the West Siberian Railway.
Las violaciones de derecho humanos a líderes ambientales y su relación con algunos proyectos del sector extractivo, desafíos para la paz
Authors: Suelt Cock Vanessa
Published: November 2024

Este escrito se propone describir las tensiones de las violaciones de los derechos humanos a líderes ambientales y al medio ambiente por parte de las empresas extractivas, mediante la descripción de los resultados de la base de datos construida entre el 2016 y el 2017 y cómo ello implica una violencia en el territorio, en la que se involucra el Estado al otorgar licencias a empresas en lugares de conflicto armado, protegidos ambientalmente, y dónde habitan comunidades étnicas, así como por no realizar una adecuada vigilancia e investigación y persecución de las denuncias de las comunidades.