bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phasic stimulation in the nucleus accumbens enhances learning after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Aronson Joshua P , Katnani Husam A , Huguenard Anna , Mulvaney Graham , Bader Edward R , Yang Jimmy C , Eskandar Emad N
Published: April 2022

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite improvements in survival, treatments that improve functional outcome remain lacking. There is, therefore, a pressing need to develop novel treatments to improve functional recovery. Here, we investigated task-matched deep-brain stimulation of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) to augment reinforcement learning in a rodent model of TBI. We demonstrate that task-matched deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the NAc can enhance learning following TBI. We further demonstrate that animals receiving DBS exhibited greater behavioral improvement and enhanced neural proliferation. Treated animals recovered to an uninjured behavioral baseline and showed retention of improved performance even after stimulation was stopped. These results provide encouraging early evidence for the potential of NAc DBS to improve functional outcomes following TBI and that its effects may be broad, with alterations in neurogenesis and synaptogenesis.
An Infant With Hereditary Fructose Intolerance and a Novel Presentation of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulopathy Following Pyloromyotomy
Authors: Aldag Erin , Fan Elaine M. , Marshall Isaac , Christensen Robert D. , Shayota Brian J. , Meznarich Jessica A.
Published: April 2022

Hereditary fructose intolerance is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder characterized by liver failure, renal tubulopathy, growth retardation, and occasionally death upon exposure to fructose. We present a 2-month-old male infant diagnosed with pyloric stenosis who developed disseminated intravascular coagulopathy following pyloromyotomy. Unexplained persistent coagulopathy, acute liver failure, and metabolic dysfunction led to whole-exome sequencing, which revealed compound heterozygous variants in ALDOB (p.Arg60Ter and p.Ala150Pro), diagnostic of hereditary fructose intolerance. Shortly after initiating a fructose-free diet, our patient had resolution of his coagulopathy, hepatic, and metabolic dysfunction.
Late Toxicity After 3-Dimensional External Beam Radiotherapy Among Children With Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Beijer Josien G.M. , Teepen Jop C. , Streefkerk Nina , Heijnen Richard M. , Janssens Geert O. , Kremer Leontien C.M. , van Dalen Elvira C. , Ronckers Cécile M.
Published: April 2022

Radiotherapy has evolved from 2-dimensional conventional radiotherapy (2D-RT) to 3-dimensional planned radiotherapy (3D-RT). Because 3D-RT improves conformity, an altered late health outcomes risk profile is anticipated. Here, we systematically reviewed the current literature on late toxicity after 3D-RT in children treated for cancer. PubMed was searched for studies describing late toxicity after 3D-RT for childhood cancer (below 21 y). Late toxicity was defined as somatic health outcomes occurring ≥90 days after treatment. We identified 13 eligible studies, describing most frequently head/neck area tumors. Included studies reported on crude frequencies of late toxicities including subsequent tumors and conditions of organ systems. Three studies offered a global assessment of the full spectrum of late toxicity; one study compared toxicities after 2D-RT and 3D-RT. Incidence rates were typically not provided. Heterogeneity in study characteristics, small study sizes and short follow-up times precluded multivariable modeling and pooling of data. In conclusion, among the first pediatric cohorts treated with 3D-RT, a broad variety of late toxicity is reported; precise estimates of incidence, and contributions of risk factors are unclear. Continued systematic evaluation of well-defined health outcomes in survivors treated with 3D-RT, including proton therapy, is needed to optimize evidence-based care for children with cancer and survivors.
The Mutation of CD27 Deficiency Presented With Familial Hodgkin Lymphoma and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Köse Doğan , Güzelçiçek Ahmet , Öz Özlem , Erdem Arzu Y. , Haliloğlu Yeşim , Witzel Maximilian , Klein Christoph , Ünal Ekrem
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to report 4 siblings with CD27 deficiency presented with Hodgkin lymphoma. The father of the family, his 2 wives, and 17 children born from these wives were included into the study. CD27 mutation of all the family members with, and without Hodgkin lymphoma were studied. The variants detected by the exome sequencing analysis were verified by Sanger sequencing and analyzed using SeqScape Software 3. It was determined that both the father of the family and his 2 wives carried the same variant heterozygously. Of the children born to the first mother, 2 children were normal, 3 were heterozygous and 5 were homozygous. Four of these 5 homozygous children were diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. Of the children born to the second mother, 1 child was normal, 3 children were heterozygous and 2 children were homozygous, and none of them had developed a malignant event. We also showed that CD27 deficiency may enhance Treg differentiation. According to our information, this study augmented the relationship of Hodgkin lymphoma and CD27 deficiency. The detection of homozygous CD27 variant in all siblings who developed lymphoma strengthened the place of this mutation in the etiology of Hodgkin lymphoma. In contrast, the presence of homozygous siblings with no malignant event suggested the possible contributions of environmental factors on the etiology.
Leiomyomatosis in an Infant With a SUFU Splice Site Variant: Case Report
Authors: Rao Rameshwar R. , Dulken Ben W. , Matalon Dena R. , Borensztein Maia , McGuinness Molly , Cizek Stephanie M. , Bruzoni Matias , Tan Serena Y. , Kreimer Sara
Published: April 2022

Heterozygous loss-of-function variants in the suppressor of fused protein gene (SUFU) can result in Gorlin syndrome, which is characterized by an increased frequency of basal cell carcinoma, medulloblastoma, odontogenic keratocysts, as well as other tumors. We describe a case of a 5-month-old female who presented with multiple intra-abdominal leiomyomata and was found to have a likely pathogenic splice site variant in the SUFU gene. This is the first reported case of leiomyomatosis secondary to a pathogenic SUFU variant in an infant and may represent an early, atypical presentation of Gorlin syndrome.
Successful Use of Thrombolysis in an Extremely Low Birth Weight, Premature Infant With Aortic Thrombosis
Authors: Samji Nasrin , Twiss Jennifer , Chan Anthony K.C. , Bhatt Mihir D.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Severe neonatal aortic thrombosis is rare but can lead to significant morbidity or death if inadequately treated. Thrombolytic therapy is indicated for thrombi which are life-threatening, organ-threatening, or limb-threatening, but dosing consensus has not been established.

Observation:

We report a case of a 700 g preterm neonate with spontaneous intestinal perforation who developed an occlusive aortic thrombus with signs of limb ischemia. He was treated successfully with tissue plasminogen activator without hemorrhagic complications. He was started at a dose of 0.06 mg/kg/h and received a maximum dose of 0.3 mg/kg/h. Long-term follow-up at 3 years and 3 months showed no negative sequelae.

Conclusion:

Alteplase may be considered in premature, extremely low–birth weight infants with careful assessment of risk and benefits, along with frequent surveillance and supportive care.
Mutational Analysis of the VPREB1 Gene of Pre-BCR Complex in a Cohort of Sporadic Pediatric Patients With B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Naji Parisa , Khatami Mehri , Heidari Mohammad M. , Hashemi Azam , Jenabzadeh Alireza , Chamani Reyhane , Khanjarpanah Zohre
Published: April 2022

During bone marrow B-cell development, the pre-B-cell receptor is formed by the association of the immunoglobulin heavy chain with a surrogate light chain, which is encoded by the VPREB1, and λ5 genes. It is known that pre-BCR signaling signifies a critical checkpoint at the pre-B-cell stage. Thus, failure pre-BCR signaling is proposed as a critical factor for the development of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). B‑ALL is the most common pediatric cancer and is one of the leading causes of death in children. Until now, several molecular analyses were performed for genomic alterations in B-ALL, but for genomic analysis of the VPREB1 gene and its rare variations, limited studies have been conducted. In this study, using polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing of 88 pediatric patients with B-ALL, we investigated the genomic region of the VPREB1 gene to find sequence variations of this gene. Our study presented ten homozygous and heterozygous point mutations and heterozygous nucleotide deletions, in the VPREB1 gene in 36 boys and 32 girls’ patients. Our Bioinformatics assay results presented that these variations may alter the RNA folding, protein structure, and therefore probable effect on the protein function. These results propose that nucleotide changes probably contribute to B-ALL pathogenesis.
Taste Alteration in Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Undergoing Maintenance Treatment
Authors: Bilsin Kocamaz Elif , Çiçek Gümüş Ecem , Akbayram Sinan , Yazici Alper
Published: April 2022

The purpose of the present study is to examine taste alteration in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) undergoing maintenance treatment. The population of the study was comprised of children with ALL between the ages of 7 and 18 who received maintenance treatment. The study sample was included 72 children (children with ALL:36 and healthy children: 36) determined by power analysis. This was a cross-sectional study. The children in both groups were applied to the taste test by the researcher. It was determined that there is a statistically significant difference (P<0.05) between sweet (sucrose), salty (sodium chloride), sour (citric acid), and bitter (quinine hydrochloride) taste test score averages of the children with ALL and healthy children and that the 4 taste test score averages are lower in the experiment group. The taste alterations were determined in the present study for children with ALL undergoing maintenance treatment. Problems of children with cancer such as loss of appetite, negative attitude toward food or weight loss can be reduced or prevented when taste alteration is determined in children with cancer thereby improving the feeding of the children thereby increasing their quality of life.
Ganglioneuroblastoma in a Child With Neurofibromatosis Type 1: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Okonta Vivian N. , Majlessipour Fataneh , Baca Nicole M.
Published: April 2022

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic condition commonly associated with a predisposition to tumor development. Affected individuals have an increased risk of benign and malignant tumors of the central and peripheral nervous system. Though pediatric patients with NF1 have an increased risk of tumors such as optic gliomas and neurofibromas during childhood, neuroblastic tumors are less often observed in this population. We report a rare case of a 5-year-old female with ganglioneuroblastoma intermixed and known history of NF1 and review the existing literature on the occurrence of ganglioneuroblastoma in pediatric patients with NF1.
Surgical Experience Affects the Outcome of Central Venous Access Catheter Implantation in Children: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Fritsch Lena-Marie , Le Melanie , Elrod Julia , Wössmann Wilhelm , Vincent Deirdre , Reinshagen Konrad , Boettcher Michael
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Surgical complications occur in up to third of children, limiting the benefits of tunneled central venous catheters (tCVCs) in children. We aimed to identify risk factors for complications related to catheter implantation.

Methods:

All children and adolescents undergoing tCVC implantation at a single center over a period of 9 years were analyzed. Infection, thrombosis, dislocation, and catheter dysfunction were defined as complications. Both patient-related (ie, age, sex, vessel characteristics, revision surgery) and surgical factors (ie, sex of surgeon, surgical experience) were analyzed for their association with complications.

Results:

A total of 1024 catheters were inserted, 887 ports and 137 broviac catheters. In terms of patient-related factors, Broviac catheters, and nononcological patients had a higher complication rate. The use of the internal jugular vein and revision surgery was associated with significantly increased complications in patients with port catheters. Experience of the surgeon correlated with various outcome parameters. Implantation performed by an attending were associated with lower complication rates in comparison to those performed by residents. Within the resident group, insertions performed by experienced residents had more complications compared with those performed by residents during their first years.

Conclusion:

The study suggests that the outcome of tCVCs insertion is affected by the type of catheter used, the utilized vessel and above all by surgical experience. Residents had significantly increased complication rates in comparison to board-certified surgeons and amongst resident’s outcome got worse with increasing experience of the residents. The presence of an experienced attending did not compensate for this effect. To improve the outcome of tCVCs, strategies like direct feedback after every procedure to achieve proficiency should be implanted in residency programs.
The Effect of Face-to-Face and Phone Call Motivational Interviewing on Cervical Cancer Screening
Authors: Pourebrahim-Alamdari Parvin , Mehrabi Esmat , Nourizadeh Roghaiyeh , Esmaeilpour Khalil , Mousavi Saeed , Hakimi Sevil
Published: April 2022

Background

Having regular screening tests largely depends on motivational factors. Motivational interviewing (MI) facilitates the movement through the stages of the transtheoretical model of change.

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of face-to-face and phone call MI on cervical cancer screening.

Methods

This experimental study was conducted on 150 eligible women referred to health centers in Tabriz, Iran. The women were assigned into 3 groups (face-to-face MI, phone MI, or control) using blocked randomization. The face-to-face MI group participated in 3 weekly group counseling sessions, and the motivational phone call group received 3 weekly phone calls. The participants completed the demographic and obstetric questionnaire and stages of change checklist. Adherence to Pap smear was checked, according to the health profile, 6 months after the intervention. The data were analyzed using SPSS24 software. Chi-square, homogeneity test, and sequential logistic regression by the generalized estimating equations were used.

Results

After the intervention, about 32% women from the face-to-face MI group, 22% from the motivational phone call group, and 4% from the control group underwent Pap smear screening (P = .002). There was no significant difference between the 2 interventional groups in Pap smear frequency (P = .36).

Conclusion

The study results indicated that both face-to-face and phone call MI are effective in motivating women to have a Pap smear. Further studies are recommended to consider long-term follow-up (3–5 years).

Implications for Practice

It is recommended that healthcare providers use motivational phone call to encourage cancer screening behaviors.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Technology-Based Psychosocial Education and Counseling Program for Adolescent Survivors of Childhood Leukemia
Authors: Arpaci Tuba , Altay Naime , Copur Gizem Yagmur
Published: April 2022

Background

In addition to increased survivorship in childhood leukemia, a small but significant number of survivors experience psychosocial challenges that affect their health-related quality of life (QOL) that require interventions to address these challenges.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the technology-based, psychosocial education and counseling program on survivors’ QOL, self-efficacy, and coping skills within the scope of a health promotion model for adolescent survivors of childhood leukemia.

Methods

The randomized controlled trial was conducted with adolescent survivors of childhood leukemia who were between the ages of 12 and 18 and had completed treatment at least 2 years previously. Survivors were randomized to a technology-based intervention (n = 24) or a control group (n = 31). Survivors’ QOL, self-efficacy, and coping skills were measured at 4 time points (baseline, postintervention, 1 month postintervention, and 3 months postintervention).

Results

The 3-month postintervention QOL total and psychosocial subscale scores in the intervention group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < .05). In addition, the emotional self-efficacy subscale scores and the active coping scores of the intervention group adolescents were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < .05). Negative coping scores were lower in the intervention group than in the control group (P < .05).

Conclusion

Technology-based, psychosocial counseling and education positively affects the QOL, emotional self-efficacy, and coping skills of adolescent survivors of childhood leukemia.

Implications for Practice

This program could be integrated into follow-up care and used as one of the support methods in providing and maintaining long-term follow-up care by pediatric oncology nurses.
The Efficacy of Virtual Reality–Based Interventions in Breast Cancer–Related Symptom Management
Authors: Tian Qi , Xu Mengmeng , Yu Lin , Yang Shu , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2022

Background

Breast cancer patients experience a range of disease- and treatment-related symptoms that seriously threaten their quality of life. Virtual reality (VR), an emerging complementary and integrative therapy, has been increasingly applied in clinical practice. However, there is insufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of VR-based interventions on symptom management in breast cancer patients.

Objective

This article aimed to systematically examine the effects of VR on breast cancer–related symptom management.

Methods

The PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, CNKI, Wan Fang, and VIP databases were comprehensively searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs published up to April 10, 2021. Studies using VR-based interventions to manage breast cancer–related symptoms were included. Two investigators independently reviewed and extracted data and evaluated methodological quality. RevMan 5.3 was used for meta-analysis, and heterogeneity was evaluated using Higgins’I2(%) statistic.

Results

Eight RCTs and 6 quasi-RCTs with 797 participants were included. Virtual reality–based interventions significantly improved symptoms of anxiety, depression, pain, cognitive function, and shoulder range of motion in breast cancer patients, but no significant improvements in grip and upper extremity function were observed.

Conclusion

Virtual reality–based interventions had a positive effect on symptom management for breast cancer patients.

Implications for Practice

Health professionals, especially nurses, can apply VR in clinical practice to reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life of breast cancer patients. More studies are needed to draw higher quality conclusions and explore the best interventions and cost-effectiveness of VR.
Palliative Care Use in Advanced Cancer in the Garden State
Authors: Nicholson Bridget L. , Flynn Linda , Savage Beth , Zha Peijia , Kozlov Elissa
Published: April 2022

Background

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Patients with metastatic cancer have a high symptom burden. Major global and domestic cancer care recommendations advise integration of palliative care services for these patients. Palliative care is specialized care that can decrease cost, improve symptom burden, and improve quality of life. Patient factors driving the use of palliative care remain poorly understood but may include both physiological and psychological needs, namely, pain and depression, respectively.

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify patient-level predictors associated with inpatient palliative care use in patients with metastatic cancer.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of the 2018 New Jersey State Inpatient Database. The sample was limited to hospitalized adults with metastatic cancer in New Jersey. Descriptive statistics characterized the sample. Generalized linear modeling estimated the effects of pain and depression on the use of inpatient palliative care.

Results

The sample included 28 697 hospitalizations for patients with metastatic cancer. Within the sample, 4429 (15.4%) included a palliative care consultation. There was a 9.3% documented occurrence of pain and a 10.9% rate of depression. Pain contributed to palliative care use, but depression was not predictive of an inpatient care consultation. Age, income category, and insurance status were significant factors influencing use.

Conclusion

Understanding demographic and clinical variables relative to palliative care use may help facilitate access to palliative care for adults experiencing metastatic cancer.

Implication for Practice

Increased screening for pain and depression may expand palliative care use for adults with metastatic cancer receiving inpatient care.
The Effect of Walking Intervention on Cognitive Function Among Patients With Non–Central Nervous System Cancer
Authors: Yang Hui-Ying , Chou Yun-Jen , Shun Shiow-Ching
Published: April 2022

Background

Cognitive impairment is one of the most frequently reported symptoms in patients with non–central nervous system (non-CNS) cancer. Walking has positive effects on cognitive function. However, the effects of walking interventions on cognitive function outcomes in patients with non-CNS cancer are not well synthesized.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the characteristics of walking intervention and its effects on cognitive function in patients with non-CNS cancer.

Methods

Ten databases were searched to identify eligible randomized controlled trials from each database’s inception to June 7, 2021. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials involving 242 adults with non-CNS cancer were included. Two studies involving immediate treadmill walking interventions with moderate intensity at 40% to 60% maximal heart rate reported significantly improved objective cognitive domains of processing speed and spatial working memory with small to moderate effect sizes for cancer survivors. One study delivering home-based, moderate-intensity walking intervention had borderline significantly positive effects on perceived cognitive functioning for patients with non-CNS cancer during chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Walking intervention with moderate intensity is a beneficial approach to improve objective cognitive domains of processing speed and spatial working memory and perceived cognitive function.

Implications for Practice

Nurses may provide moderate-intensity walking with 40% to 60% maximal heart rate monitoring to alleviate cognitive problems during the continuous process of cancer care. The modality and dosage of intervention should be adjusted depending on this population’s tolerance to better maintain training.
Efficacy of an Algorithm-Based Nursing Intervention to Promote a Balance Between Cancer Patients’ Social Roles and Outpatient Treatment
Authors: Kanda Kiyoko , Kyota Ayumi , Fujimoto Keiko , Shimizu Hiroko , Kikuchi Saori , Imai Yoko , Yoshida Kumiko
Published: April 2022

Background

Cancer patients undergoing treatment are often unable to balance treatment and work because of the time required for care at the hospital and a desire to avoid problems at work.

Objective

The aim of this study was to elucidate the efficacy of an algorithm-based nursing intervention (ANI) to promote balance between social roles and outpatient treatment in cancer patients.

Methods

Participants were outpatients receiving cancer therapy and randomly assigned to a control or an intervention group, the latter to receive ANI for 2 months. The outcomes were assessed using the Distress and Impact Thermometer and changes in employment status. Data from 54 evaluable participants in each group were analyzed.

Results

Distress and Impact Thermometer scores in the intervention group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < .001). In addition, 2 months later, 20 participants had resigned from their employment or were on leave in the control group (37.0%); this was twice the number in the intervention group, a significant difference (χ
2 = 4.573, P < .05). Logistic regression analysis showed that the odds ratio in the control group was 3.6 times that of the intervention group of having resigned.

Conclusion

The ANI appears to have reduced distress and impact scores associated with the course of treatment and to have reduced the likelihood of resignations at 2 months after implementation.

Implications for Practice

The intervention appears to be effective and may be a new tool for use by outpatient oncology nurses.
The Concept of Double Protection in the Childhood Cancer Context
Authors: Son Heeyeon , Haase Joan E. , Docherty Sharron L.
Published: April 2022

Background

The concept of double protection is used to describe communication avoidance used by parents and their child or adolescents with cancer in attempts to protect the other against disease-related stress and emotions, resulting from communication about the cancer, its treatment, and thoughts. This concept has received limited attention in the research literature.

Objectives

The aims of this concept analysis are to (1) explore its defining characteristics, applicability, and utility, (2) spotlight the concept and increase awareness and interest among healthcare providers and researchers, and (3) provide a direction for future interventions to improve parent-child communication in the childhood cancer context.

Methods

Rodgers’ Evolutionary Concept Analysis was used, and the findings from a study that explored the communication experience of Korean adolescents with cancer and their parents were integrated.

Results

This study explored the attributes, antecedents, consequences, and related terms. The following attributes were extracted: intention to protect, bidirectional, and absence of parent-child communication at a deeper level.

Conclusion

Clarification of the concept of double protection provides insight into the concept as a barrier to engagement in parent-child communication and supports the significance of double protection in the childhood cancer context.

Implications for Practice

There is a need for increased awareness of the challenges and dangers inherent in family communication avoidance, double protection. In order to address the issue, developing developmentally appropriate and valid clinical assessment tool and interventions are required. More research on the evidence-based benefits of effective parent-child communication is also required.
Developing an International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Set for Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors in Chinese Clinical Settings
Authors: Hsiao Shu-Tai Shen , Kuo Chao-Yang , Liou Tsan-Hon , Wang Tai-Ton , Liu Yen-Lin , Tseng Sung-Hui
Published: April 2022

Background

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) core set (CS) facilitates the standardization of functioning and impairment assessment for integration of holistic care.

Objective

This study developed an ICF CS for interviewing pediatric brain tumor survivors in Taiwan to help healthcare professionals in implementing disability assessment and management measures.

Methods

A group of 29 experts in 10 relevant fields with at least 5 years of experience working with children with brain tumors participated in this study. The first questionnaire contained 247 second-level ICF categories. The experts rated the significance of each category by using a 5-point Likert scale. Correlations between individual and group scores were calculated to determine consensus. Categories with an average rating of higher than 4 and for which greater than or equal to 80% (23) of the participants provided a rating of 4 or higher were included in the final CS.

Results

The final CS contained a total of 57 ICF categories: 20 from the Body Functions and Structures component, 36 from the Activities and Participation component, and 1 from the Environmental Factors component.

Conclusion

The ICF CS for pediatric brain tumor survivors provides a framework for relevant healthcare professionals to deliver patient-centered care, ensuring that services focus on all areas of development.

Implications for Practice

Patient ratings for this ICF CS may serve as a new practical and effective patient-reported information tool for acquiring patient input and for the systematic monitoring of pediatric brain tumor survivors in clinical practice. Further research should be conducted on this CS to verify our findings.
Evaluating the effects of an intervention to improve the health environment for mothers and children in health centres (BECEYA) in Mali: a qualitative study
Authors: Ngangue Patrice , Robert Katherine , Ly Birama Apho , Traoré Fatoumata , Vezina Maude
Published: April 2022

Background

An intervention aiming to improve maternal and children environment in healthcare facilities (BECEYA) was launched in three regions of Mali. This study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of patients and their companions, community actors and healthcare facilities staff on the effects of the BECEYA intervention in two regions of Mali.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study using an empirical phenomenological approach. Through purposive sampling, women who attended antenatal care in the selected healthcare centres, companions, and health facility staff members were recruited. Data were collected during January and February 2020 through semi-structured individual interviews and focus groups. According to Braun & Clarke approach, audio recordings were transcribed verbatim, and a thematic analysis was conducted in five main steps.

Results

We recruited 26 participants in individual interviews and 20 participants in focus groups. Donabedian conceptual framework of quality of care was used to present the perceived changes following the implementation of the BECEYA project. The themes that emerged from data analysis are perceived changes in terms of infrastructure (perceived changes in the characteristics of the healthcare facilities setting, including the infrastructure introduced by the BECEYA project), process (changes in the delivery and use of care introduced or resulting from BECEYA activities), and outcome (the direct and indirect effects of these changes on the health status of patients and the population).

Conclusion

The study identified the positive effects of women users of the services, their companions and health centre staff following the implementation of the project. Therefore, this study contributes to the advancement of knowledge to show the link between improving the health environment of health centres in developing countries, a major aspect of the quality of care, and maternal and child health care.
A subtype of melanopsin ganglion cells encodes ground luminance
Authors: Berry Michael H. , Moldavan Michael , Garrett Tavita , Meadows Marc , Cravetchi Olga , White Elizabeth , von Gersdorff Henrique , Wright Kevin M , Allen Charles , Sivyer Benjamin
Published: April 2022

Visual input to the hypothalamus from intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) influences several functions including circadian entrainment, body temperature, and sleep. ipRGCs also project to nuclei such as the supraoptic nucleus (SON), which is involved in systemic fluid homeostasis, maternal behavior, and appetite. However, little is known about the SON-projecting ipRGCs or their relationship to well-characterized ipRGC subtypes. Using a GlyT2Cre mouse line, we identify a subtype of ipRGCs restricted to the dorsal retina that selectively project to the SON. These ipRGCs form a non-overlapping tiled mosaic that is limited to a dorsal region of the retina, forming a substrate for encoding ground luminance. Optogenetic activation of their axons demonstrates they release the neurotransmitter glutamate and that the SON is retinorecipient, receiving synaptic input from dorsal ipRGCs. Our results challenge the idea that ipRGC dendrites overlap to optimize photon capture and suggests non-image forming vision operates to sample local regions of the visual field.
Social network analysis reveals context-dependent kin relationships in wild sulphur-crested cockatoos,Cacatua galerita
Authors: Penndorf J. , Ewart K. M. , Klump B. C. , Martin J. M. , Aplin L. M.
Published: April 2022

A preference to associate with kin facilitates inclusive fitness benefits, and increased tolerance or cooperation between kin may be an added benefit of group living. Many species exhibit preferred associations with kin, however it is often hard to disentangle active preferences from passive overlap, for example caused by limited dispersal or inheritance of social position.

Many parrots exhibit social systems consisting of pair-bonded individuals foraging in variably sized fission-fusion flocks within larger communal roosts of hundreds of individuals. Previous work has shown that, despite these fission-fusion dynamics, individuals can exhibit long-term preferred foraging associations outside their pair-bonds. Yet the underlying drivers of these social preferences remains largely unknown.

In this study, we use a network approach to examine the influence of kinship on social associations and interactions in wild, communally roosting sulphur-crested cockatoos,Cacatua galerita. We recorded roost co-membership, social associations and interactions in 561 individually marked birds across three neighbouring roosts. We then collected genetic samples from 205 cockatoos, and conducted a relationship analysis to construct a kinship network. Finally, we tested correlations between kinship and four social networks: association, affiliative, low-intensity aggression, and high-intensity aggression.

Our result showed that while roosting groups were clearly defined, they showed little genetic differentiation or kin structuring. Between roost movement was high, with juveniles, especially females, repeatedly moving between roosts. Both within roosting communities, and when visiting different roosts, individuals preferentially associated with kin. Supporting this, individuals were also more likely to allopreen kin. However, contrary to expectation, individuals preferred to direct aggression towards kin, with this effect only observed when individuals shared roost membership.

By measuring social networks within and between large roosting groups, we could remove potential effects of passive spatial overlap on kin structuring. Our study reveals that sulphur-crested cockatoos actively prefer to associate with kin, both within and between roosting groups. By examining this across different interaction types, we further demonstrate that sulphur-crested cockatoos exhibit behavioural and context-dependent interaction rules towards kin. Our results help reveal the drivers of social association in this species, while adding to the evidence for social complexity in parrots.
Cbln1 directs axon targeting by corticospinal neurons specifically toward thoraco-lumbar spinal cord
Authors: Song Janet H.T. , Ruven Carolin , Patel Payal , Ding Frances , Macklis Jeffrey D. , Sahni Vibhu
Published: April 2022

Corticospinal neurons (CSN) are centrally required for skilled voluntary movement, which necessitates that they establish precise subcerebral connectivity with the brainstem and spinal cord. However, molecular controls regulating specificity of this projection targeting remain largely unknown. We previously identified that developing CSN subpopulations exhibit striking axon targeting specificity in the spinal white matter. These CSN subpopulations with segmentally distinct spinal projections are also molecularly distinct; a subset of differentially expressed genes between these distinct CSN subpopulations function as molecular controls regulating differential axon projection targeting. Rostrolateral CSN extend axons exclusively to bulbar-cervical segments (CSNBC-lat), while caudomedial CSN (CSNmedial) are more heterogeneous, with distinct, intermingled subpopulations extending axons to either bulbar-cervical or thoraco-lumbar segments. Here, we report that Cerebellin 1 (Cbln1) is expressed specifically by CSN in medial, but not lateral, sensorimotor cortex. Cbln1 shows highly dynamic temporal expression, with Cbln1 levels in CSN highest during the period of peak axon extension toward thoraco-lumbar segments. Using gain-of-function experiments, we identify that Cbln1 is sufficient to direct thoraco-lumbar axon extension by CSN. Mis-expression of Cbln1 in CSNBC-lat either by in utero electroporation, or in postmitotic CSNBC-lat by AAV-mediated gene delivery, re-directs these axons past their normal bulbar-cervical targets toward thoracic segments. Further, Cbln1 overexpression in postmitotic CSNmedial increases the number of CSNmedial axons that extend past cervical segments into the thoracic cord. Collectively, these results identify that Cbln1 functions as a potent molecular control over thoraco-lumbar CSN axon extension, part of an integrated network of controls over segmentally-specific CSN axon projection targeting.

Significance Statement

Corticospinal neurons (CSN) exhibit remarkable diversity and precision of axonal projections to targets in the brainstem and distinct spinal segments; the molecular basis for this targeting diversity is largely unknown. CSN subpopulations projecting to distinct targets are also molecularly distinguishable. Distinct subpopulations degenerate in specific motor neuron diseases, further suggesting that intrinsic molecular differences might underlie differential vulnerability to disease. Here, we identify a novel molecular control, Cbln1, expressed by CSN extending axons to thoraco-lumbar spinal segments. Cbln1 is sufficient, but not required, for CSN axon extension toward distal spinal segments, and Cbln1 expression is controlled by recently identified, CSN-intrinsic regulators of axon extension. Our results identify that Cbln1, together with other regulators, coordinates segmentally precise CSN axon targeting.
Ectopic insert-dependent neuronal expression of GFAP promoter-driven AAV constructs in adult mouse retina
Authors: Le Nguyet , Appel Haley , Pannullo Nicole , Hoang Thanh , Blackshaw Seth
Published: April 2022

Direct reprogramming of retinal Müller glia is a promising avenue for replacing photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells lost to retinal dystrophies. However, questions have recently been raised about the accuracy of studies claiming efficient glia-to-neuron reprogramming in retina that were conducted using GFAP mini promoter-driven adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. In this study, we have addressed these questions using GFAP mini promoter-driven AAV constructs to simultaneously overexpress the mCherry reporter and candidate transcription factors predicted to induce glia-to-neuron conversion, in combination with prospective genetic labeling of retinal Müller glia using inducible Cre-dependent GFP reporters. We find that, while control GFAP-mCherry constructs express faithfully in Müller glia, 5 out of 7 transcription factor overexpression constructs tested are predominantly expressed in amacrine and retinal ganglion cells. However, genetic cell lineage analysis shows no evidence for glia-to-neuron conversion. These findings demonstrate strong insert-dependent effects on AAV-based GFAP mini promoter specificity that preclude its use in inferring cell lineage relationships when studying glia-to-neuron conversion in retina.
Neural representation of intraoral olfactory and gustatory signals by the mediodorsal thalamus in alert rats
Authors: Fredericksen Kelly E. , Samuelsen Chad L.
Published: April 2022

The mediodorsal thalamus is a higher-order thalamic nucleus involved in a variety of cognitive behaviors, including olfactory attention, odor discrimination, and the hedonic perception of flavors. Although it forms connections with principal regions of the olfactory and gustatory networks, its role in processing olfactory and gustatory signals originating from the mouth remains unclear. Here, we recorded single-unit activity in the mediodorsal thalamus of behaving rats during the intraoral delivery of individual odors, individual tastes, and odor-taste mixtures. Our results are the first to demonstrate that neurons in the mediodorsal thalamus dynamically encode chemosensory signals originating from the mouth. This chemoselective population is broadly tuned, responds with excitation and suppression, and represents odor-taste mixtures differently than their odor and taste components. Furthermore, a subset of chemoselective neurons encoded taste palatability. Our results further demonstrate the multidimensionality of the mediodorsal thalamus and provides additional evidence of its involvement in processing chemosensory information important for consummatory behaviors.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

The perception of food relies upon the concurrent processing of olfactory and gustatory signals originating from the mouth. The mediodorsal thalamus is a higher-order thalamic nucleus involved in a variety of chemosensory-dependent behaviors and connects the olfactory and gustatory cortices with prefrontal cortex. However, it is unknown how neurons in the mediodorsal thalamus process intraoral chemosensory signals. Using tetrode recordings in alert rats, our results are the first to show that neurons in the mediodorsal thalamus dynamically represent olfactory and gustatory signals from the mouth. Our findings suggest that the mediodorsal thalamus is a key node between sensory and higher-order cortical areas for processing chemosensory information underlying consummatory behavior.
Platelet response to influenza vaccination reflects effects of aging
Authors: Konstorum A. , Mohanty S. , Zhao Y. , Melillo A. , Vander Wyk B. , Nelson A. , Tsang S. , Blevins T.P. , Belshe R.B. , Chawla D.G. , Rondina M.T. , Montgomery R.R. , Allore H.G. , Kleinstein S.H. , Shaw A.C.
Published: April 2022

Platelets are uniquely positioned as mediators of not only hemostasis but also innate immunity, but how age and alterations in functional status such as frailty influence platelet function during an immune response remains unclear. We assessed the platelet transcriptome in younger (age 21-35) and older (age ≥ 65) adults (including frail and non-frail individuals) following influenza vaccination. Prior to vaccination, we identified an age- and frailty-associated increase in expression of platelet activation and mitochondrial RNAs and decrease in RNAs encoding proteins mediating translation. Using tensor decomposition analysis, we also elucidated dynamic post-vaccination platelet activation and translation signatures associated with age and frailty. At the protein level, enhanced platelet activation was found in non-frail older adults, compared to young individuals both prior to and post-vaccine; but frail adults showed decreased platelet activation compared to non-frail that could reflect the influence of decreased translation RNA expression. Our results reveal an age-dependent alteration in platelet function prior to and post-vaccination that may contribute to age-associated chronic inflammation.
Computational Analysis of Effects of Clot Length on Acute Ischemic Stroke Recanalization under Different Cyclic Aspiration Loading Conditions
Authors: Patki Priyanka , Simon Scott , Manning Keefe B. , Costanzo Francesco
Published: April 2022

Acute ischemic stroke, the second leading cause of death worldwide, results from occlusion of a cerebral artery by a blood clot. Application of cyclic aspiration using an aspiration catheter is a current therapy for the removal of lodged clots. In this study, we perform finite element simulations to analyze deformation of long clots, having length to radius ratio of 2 to 10, which corresponds to clot-length of 2.85–14.25 mm, under peak-to-peak cyclic aspiration pressures of 10 to 50mmmHg, and frequencies of 0.5, 1 and 2 Hz. Our computational system comprises of a nonlinear viscoelastic solid clot, a hyperelastic artery, and a nonlinear viscoelastic cohesive zone, the latter modeling the clot–artery interface. We observe that clots having length-to-radius ratio approximately greater than two separate from the inner arterial surface somewhere between the axial and distal ends, irrespective of the cyclic aspiration loading conditions. The stress distribution within the clot shows large tensile stresses in the clot interior, indicating the possibility of simultaneous fragmentation of the clot. Thus, this study shows us the various failure mechanisms simultaneously present in the clot during cyclic aspiration. Similarly, the stress distribution within the artery implies a possibility of endothelial damage to the arterial wall near the end where the aspiration pressure is applied. This framework provides a foundation for further investigation to clot fracture and adhesion characterization.
A tonically active master neuron modulates mutually exclusive motor states at two timescales
Authors: Meng Jun , Ahamed Tosif , Yu Bin , Hung Wesley , Mouridi Sonia EI , Wang Zezhen , Zhang Yongning , Wen Quan , Boulin Thomas , Gao Shangbang , Zhen Mei
Published: April 2022

Continuity of behaviors requires animals to make smooth transitions between successive and mutually exclusive behavioral states. Neural principles that govern these transitions are not well understood.C. elegansspontaneously switch between two opposite motor states, forward and backward movement, a phenomenon long thought to reflect the reciprocal inhibition between two interneurons that separately gate the forward and backward motor circuits, AVB and AVA. Combining experimental data and mathematical modeling, we report that spontaneous forward and backward locomotion and their corresponding motor circuits are not separately controlled. AVA and AVB are neither functionally equivalent nor strictly reciprocally inhibitory. Instead, while AVA phasically inhibits the forward promoting interneuron AVB at a fast timescale, it maintains a tonic, extrasynaptic excitation on AVB over the longer timescale. AVA’s depolarized spontaneous membrane potential is necessary for this tonic excitation. We propose a new, master neuron model for locomotion. AVA, with tonic and phasic activity of opposite polarities on different time scales, acts as a master neuron to break the symmetry between the underlying forward and backward motor circuits. This offers a parsimonious solution for sustained locomotion consisted of mutually exclusive motor states.

Teaser

A tonically activeC. eleganspremotor interneuron functions as the master neuron that underlies continuous modulation of forward and backward movement to ensure smooth transitions between the two opposing motor states.