bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential antivirulence and antibiofilm activities of sub-MIC of oxacillin against MDR S. aureus isolates: an in-vitro and in-vivo study
Authors: Omar Amira , El-Banna Tarek E. , Sonbol Fatma I. , El-Bouseary Maisra M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common causes of nosocomial and community-acquired infections, with high morbidity and mortality. Treatment of such infections is particularly problematic; hence, it is complicated by antibiotic resistance, and there is currently no reliable vaccine. Furthermore, it is well known that S. aureus produces an exceptionally large number of virulence factors that worsen infection. Consequently, the urgent need for anti-virulent agents that inhibit biofilm formation and virulence factors has gained momentum. Therefore, we focused our attention on an already-approved antibiotic and explored whether changing the dosage would still result in the intended anti-virulence effect.

Methods

In the present study, we determined the antibiotic resistance patterns and the MICs of oxacillin against 70 MDR S. aureus isolates. We also investigated the effect of sub-MICs of oxacillin (at 1/4 and 1/8 MICs) on biofilm formation using the crystal violet assay, the phenol-sulphuric acid method, and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). We examined the effect of sub-MICs on virulence factors and bacterial morphology using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and electron microscopy, respectively. Moreover, we studied the effect of sub-MICs of oxacillin (OX) in-vivo using a wound infection model.

Results

Oxacillin at 1/2 MIC showed a significant decrease in bacterial viability, while 1/4 and 1/8 MICs had negligible effects on treated bacterial isolates. Treatment of MDR isolates with 1/4 or 1/8 MICs of oxacillin significantly reduced biofilm formation (64% and 40%, respectively). The treated MDR S. aureus with sub-MICs of OX exhibited a dramatic reduction in several virulence factors, including protease, hemolysin, coagulase, and toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (TSST-1) production. The sub-MICs of OX significantly decreased (P < 0.05) the gene expression of biofilm and virulence-associated genes such as agrA, icaA, coa, and tst. Furthermore, oxacillin at sub-MICs dramatically accelerated wound healing, according to the recorded scoring of histological parameters.

Conclusion

The treatment of MDR S. aureus with sub-MICs of oxacillin can help in combating the bacterial resistance and may be considered a promising approach to attenuating the severity of S. aureus infections due to the unique anti-biofilm and anti-virulence activities.
Preliminary findings on the experiences of care for women who suffered early pregnancy losses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study
Authors: Silverio Sergio A. , George-Carey Rhiannon , Memtsa Maria , Kent-Nye Flora E. , Magee Laura A. , Sheen Kayleigh S. , Burgess Karen , Oza Munira , Storey Claire , Sandall Jane ,   The PUDDLES UK Collaboration, Sampson Amy , Haddad Leonie , Payne Elana , Sambrook Laura , Goodhart Venetia , Easter Abigail , von Dadelszen Peter , Jurković Davor
Published: August 2024

Background

Women who suffer an early pregnancy loss require specific clinical care, aftercare, and ongoing support. In the UK, the clinical management of early pregnancy complications, including loss is provided mainly through specialist Early Pregnancy Assessment Units. The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally changed the way in which maternity and gynaecological care was delivered, as health systems moved to rapidly reconfigure and re-organise services, aiming to reduce the risk and spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection. PUDDLES is an international collaboration investigating the pandemic’s impact on care for people who suffered a perinatal bereavement. Presented here are initial qualitative findings undertaken with UK-based women who suffered early pregnancy losses during the pandemic, about how they navigated the healthcare system and its restrictions, and how they were supported.

Methods

In-keeping with a qualitative research design, in-depth semi-structured interviews were undertaken with an opportunity sample of women (N = 32) who suffered any early pregnancy loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analysed using a template analysis to understand women’s access to services, care, and networks of support, during the pandemic following their pregnancy loss. The thematic template was based on findings from parents who had suffered a late-miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death in the UK, during the pandemic.

Results

All women had experienced reconfigured maternity and early pregnancy services. Data supported themes of: 1) COVID-19 Restrictions as Impractical & Impersonal; 2) Alone, with Only Staff to Support Them; 3) Reduction in Service Provision Leading to Perceived Devaluation in Care; and 4) Seeking Their Own Support. Results suggest access to early pregnancy loss services was reduced and pandemic-related restrictions were often impractical (i.e., restrictions added to burden of accessing or receiving care). Women often reported being isolated and, concerningly, aspects of early pregnancy loss services were reported as sub-optimal.

Conclusions

These findings provide important insight for the recovery and rebuilding of health services in the post-pandemic period and help us prepare for providing a higher standard of care in the future and through any other health system shocks. Conclusions made can inform future policy and planning to ensure best possible support for women who experience early pregnancy loss.
Frequency of seropositive celiac disease and hypothyroidism among children and adolescents with congenital heart disease: A case-control study
Authors: Edraki Mohammad Reza , Kerachi Ali Jamshidi , Yazdani Negar , Honar Naser , Dehghani Reza , Afshar Zhila , Dehghani Mohsen , Amoozgar Hamid
Published: August 2024

Background

The prevalence of celiac disease (CD) and hypothyroidism exhibit significant variation in different studies among patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). This study evaluated the frequency of laboratory test abnormalities in children and adolescents with CHD in Shiraz, Iran.

Methods

This prospective case-control study was conducted on 223 children and adolescents with CHD and healthy individuals referred to the heart clinic affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences between February 2019 and December 2021. They were classified into case and control groups. Blood tests were performed for total IgA antibody, anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA antibody (anti-TTG Ab), T4, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies in serum, along with transthoracic echocardiography. Likewise, demographic characteristics of patients, including age, sex, weight, height, and body mass index (BMI), were recorded. Also, anti-TTG Ab levels were compared among CHD patients according to cyanosis status, gender, age (above and below five years), and BMI (under and over 18.5).

Results

Ninety-eight CHD patients and 100 healthy individuals with an average age of 5.32 ± 4.05 years (1–18 years) were examined. In children with CHD, atrial septal defect (27%), ventricular septal defect (20%), and tetralogy of Fallot (13%) were the most prevalent disorders. Only one CHD patient had an anti-TTG Ab level of 16.6 unit/mL, considered borderline for seropositive CD diagnosis. There was no difference in anti-TTG Ab levels between age (above and below five years), BMI (under and over 18.5), cyanosis status, and gender groups. Seven CHD patients had high TSH levels, three had cyanotic CHD, and one had Down syndrome. The TSH levels and non-autoimmune hypothyroidism were significantly higher in CHD patients than in normal subjects (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

According to the results of this study, the serum level of TSH and prevalence of non-autoimmune hypothyroidism were higher in patients with CHD than in normal subjects, but the serum level of anti-TTG Ab was not different between the two groups.
Evaluation of the accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the detection of peri-implant fenestration
Authors: Gholampour Atefeh , Mollaei Melika , Ehsani Hodis , Ghobadi Fatemeh , Hosseinnataj Abolfazl , Yazdani Mehdi
Published: August 2024

Background

Accurate assessment of the bone supporting the implant is crucial. Early detection of bone defects around the implant can prevent the loss of bone support that ultimately leads to the loss of the implant. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to check the accuracy of CBCT in detecting peri-implant fenestrations around the implant.

Materials & methods

In this laboratory study, healthy beef ribs were used. The ribs were divided into three groups of 12 (control group, 1–2 mm fenestration group, and 2–3 mm fenestration group). The blocks were cut to a length of 20 mm and 36 osteotomies with dimensions of 4 × 12 mm were made by the periodontist in order to place the implant in these bone blocks. Then the titanium implant was placed in the holes and the initial scan was performed with CBCT. In the second group, fenestration-like lesions were created on the same buccal side at a distance of 10 mm from the crest with a diameter of 1–2 mm and in the third group with a diameter of 2–3 mm, and the CBCT scan was performed again with the same parameters. Two radiologists evaluated the images twice for the presence and absence of fenestration.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between direct measurements and CBCT in the fenestration group of 1–2 mm (p < 0.05), but there was a significant difference between direct measurements and CBCT in the fenestration group of 2–3 mm and underestimation was observed in CBCT measurements.

Conclusion

The findings of this study showed that CBCT radiography has a higher accuracy in measuring the fenestration around the implant with a smaller diameter and has an acceptable diagnostic value in detecting bone loss around the implant.
Effect of WhatsApp-based BETTER model sexual counselling on sexual function and sexual quality of life in breast cancer survivors: a randomized control trial
Authors: Nazarzadeh Shirin , Moghaddam-Tabrizi Fatemeh , Haghighi Mahmonir , Gharaaghaji-Asl Rasool
Published: August 2024

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of WhatsApp-based BETTER sex counselling on sexual function and sexual quality of life in breast cancer survivors in a randomized control trial.

Methods

This is a randomized controlled trial in which a total of 90 breast cancer survivors were recruited using convenience sampling and then randomly assigned to two groups of WhatsApp-based BETTER model counselling and routine care. Data collection tools consisted of a demographic questionnaire, the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) and the Sexual Function Index (FSFI-BC). Participants in the intervention group were given access to the 6-week program. The program consisted of six consultation and assignment packages covering all six steps of the BETTER model. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Chi-square test, independent samples t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance were used. The significance level (p-value) was considered to be less than 0.05.

Results

In the control group, the mean score of SQL scale changed from 35.16 ± 10.71 to 35.16 ± 12.97 (P > 0.05) and in the intervention group, it significantly increased from 34.76 ± 10.13 to 68.20 ± 20.48 (P < 0.001). Similarly, the comparison of mean of FSF in the control group showed a none-significant change from 58.13 ± 7.11 to 58.35 ± 6.11 (P > 0.05), and in the intervention group, it significantly improved from 59.49 ± 6.10 to 120.73 ± 25.54 (P < 0.001). The results of rANOVA indicated that there was a significant difference in the mean scores of the SQL and SFS between the two groups from pre- to post-intervention, and then over the 1-month follow-up period in the intervention group (p < 0.001). Considering partial eta squared, the effect of the intervention had the highest interaction effect on both variables of the sexual function index (η2 = 0.73) and sexual quality of life (η2 = 0.41).

Conclusions

The intervention program was a successful model for improving female sexual quality of life and female sexual function in breast cancer survivors.

Trial registration

IRCT20210926052601N1, 7–11-2021.
Exploration of clinical ethics consultation in Uganda: a case study of Uganda Cancer Institute
Authors: Nanyonga Mayi Mayega , Kutyabami Paul , Kituuka Olivia , Sewankambo Nelson K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Globally, healthcare providers (HCPs), hospital administrators, patients and their caretakers are increasingly confronted with complex moral, social, cultural, ethical, and legal dilemmas during clinical care. In high-income countries (HICs), formal and informal clinical ethics support services (CESSs) have been used to resolve bioethical conflicts among HCPs, patients, and their families. There is limited evidence about mechanisms used to resolve these issues as well as experiences and perspectives of the stakeholders that utilize them in most African countries including Uganda.

Methods

This phenomenological qualitative study utilized in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) to collect data from Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) staff, patients, and caretakers who were purposively selected. Data was analyzed deductively and inductively yielding themes and sub-themes that were used to develop a codebook.

Results

The study revealed there was no formal committee or mechanism dedicated to resolving ethical dilemmas at the UCI. Instead, ethical dilemmas were addressed in six forums: individual consultations, tumor board meetings, morbidity and mortality meetings (MMMs), core management meetings, rewards and sanctions committee meetings, and clinical departmental meetings. Participants expressed apprehension regarding the efficacy of these fora due to their non-ethics related agendas as well as members lacking training in medical ethics and the necessary experience to effectively resolve ethical dilemmas.

Conclusion

The fora employed at the UCI to address ethical dilemmas were implicit, involving decisions made through various structures without the guidance of personnel well-versed in medical or clinical ethics. There was a strong recommendation from participants to establish a multidisciplinary clinical ethics committee comprising members who are trained, skilled, and experienced in medical and clinical ethics.
Exploring the road to public healthcare accessibility: a qualitative study to understand healthcare utilization among hard-to-reach groups in Kerala, India
Authors: Surendran Surya , Joseph Jaison , Sankar Hari , Benny Gloria , Nambiar Devaki
Published: August 2024

Background

Kerala, a southern state in India, is known to be atypical due to its high literacy rate and advanced social development indicators. Facing competition from a dominant private healthcare system, recent government health system reforms have focused on providing free, high-quality universal healthcare in the public sector. We carried out an analysis to ascertain the initial impacts of these measures among ‘hard to reach groups’ as part of a larger health policy and systems research study, with a focus on public sector health service utilisation.

Methods

We conducted Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) among identified vulnerable groups across four districts of Kerala between March and August of 2022. The FGDs explored community perspectives on the use of public healthcare facilities including enablers and barriers to healthcare access. Transliterated English transcripts were coded using ATLAS.ti software and thematically analyzed using the AAAQ framework, supplemented with inductive code generation.

Results

A total of 34 FGDs were conducted. Availability and cost-effectiveness were major reasons for choosing public healthcare, with the availability of public insurance in inpatient facilities influencing this preference. However, accessibility of public sector facilities posed challenges due to long journeys and queues. Uneven roads and the non-availability of public transport further restricted access. Gaps in acceptability were also observed: participants noted the need for the availability of special treatments available, reduced waiting times for special groups like those from tribal communities or the elderly mindful of their relatively greater travel and need for prompt care. Although quality improvements resulting from health reform measures were acknowledged, participants articulated the need for further enhancements in the availability and accessibility of services so as to make public healthcare systems truly acceptable.

Conclusion

The ‘Kerala Model of Development’ has been applauded internationally for its success in recent years. However, this has not inured the state from the typical barriers to public sector health care use articulated by participants in the study, which match global evidence. In order to deepen the impact of public sector reforms, the state must try to meet service user expectations– especially among those left behind. This requires attention to quality, timeliness, outreach and physical access. Longer term impacts of these reforms – as we move to a post-COVID scenario - should also be evaluated.
Long-term ambient air pollution exposure and renal function and biomarkers of renal disease
Authors: Kilbo Edlund Karl , Xu Yiyi , Andersson Eva M. , Christensson Anders , Dehlin Mats , Forsblad-d’Elia Helena , Harari Florencia , Ljunggren Stefan , Molnár Peter , Oudin Anna , Svartengren Magnus , Ljungman Petter , Stockfelt Leo
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite accumulating evidence of an association between air pollution and renal disease, studies on the association between long-term exposure to air pollution and renal function are still contradictory. This study aimed to investigate this association in a large population with relatively low exposure and with improved estimation of renal function as well as renal injury biomarkers.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional analysis in the middle-aged general population participating in the Swedish CardioPulmonary bioImaging Study (SCAPIS; n = 30 154). Individual 10-year exposure to total and locally emitted fine particulate matter (PM2.5), inhalable particulate matter (PM10), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) were modelled using high-resolution dispersion models. Linear regression models were used to estimate associations between exposures and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, combined creatinine and cystatin C) and serum levels of renal injury biomarkers (KIM-1, MCP-1, IL-6, IL-18, MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-9, FGF-23, and uric acid), with consideration of potential confounders.

Results

Median long-term PM2.5 exposure was 6.2 µg/m3. Almost all participants had a normal renal function and median eGFR was 99.2 mL/min/1.73 m2. PM2.5 exposure was associated with 1.3% (95% CI 0.6, 2.0) higher eGFR per 2.03 µg/m3 (interquartile range, IQR). PM2.5 exposure was also associated with elevated serum matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) concentration, with 7.2% (95% CI 1.9, 12.8) higher MMP-2 per 2.03 µg/m3. There was a tendency towards an association between PM10 and higher levels of uric acid, but no associations were found with the other biomarkers. Associations with other air pollutants were null or inconsistent.

Conclusion

In this large general population sample at low exposure levels, we found a surprising association between PM2.5 exposure and a higher renal filtration. It seems unlikely that particle function would improve renal function. However, increased filtration is an early sign of renal injury and may be related to the relatively healthy population at comparatively low exposure levels. Furthermore, PM2.5 exposure was associated with higher serum concentrations of MMP-2, an early indicator of renal and cardiovascular pathology.
Pediatric idiopathic anaphylaxis: practical management from infants to adolescents
Authors: Mori Francesca , Saretta Francesca , Giovannini Mattia , Gelsomino Mariannita , Liotti Lucia , Barni Simona , Mastrorilli Carla , Pecoraro Luca , Castagnoli Riccardo , Arasi Stefania , Caminiti Lucia , Klain Angela , Miraglia del Giudice Michele , Novembre Elio
Published: August 2024

Idiopathic anaphylaxis (IA) remains a frustrating challenge for both patients and physicians. The aim of this paper is to focus on IA in pediatric ages and suggest possible diagnostic algorithms according to specific age ranges (infants, children, and adolescents). In fact, in a variable percentage of patients, despite extensive diagnostic tests, the cause of anaphylactic episodes cannot be identified. Moreover, the lack of a unanimous IA definition requires a careful and detailed diagnostic workup. Prompt recognition of signs and symptoms, especially in younger children, and an accurate clinical history often allow a choice of the most appropriate diagnostic tests and a correct differential diagnosis.
Benchmarking clustering, alignment, and integration methods for spatial transcriptomics
Authors: Hu Yunfei , Xie Manfei , Li Yikang , Rao Mingxing , Shen Wenjun , Luo Can , Qin Haoran , Baek Jihoon , Zhou Xin Maizie
Published: August 2024

Background

Spatial transcriptomics (ST) is advancing our understanding of complex tissues and organisms. However, building a robust clustering algorithm to define spatially coherent regions in a single tissue slice and aligning or integrating multiple tissue slices originating from diverse sources for essential downstream analyses remains challenging. Numerous clustering, alignment, and integration methods have been specifically designed for ST data by leveraging its spatial information. The absence of comprehensive benchmark studies complicates the selection of methods and future method development.

Results

In this study, we systematically benchmark a variety of state-of-the-art algorithms with a wide range of real and simulated datasets of varying sizes, technologies, species, and complexity. We analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each method using diverse quantitative and qualitative metrics and analyses, including eight metrics for spatial clustering accuracy and contiguity, uniform manifold approximation and projection visualization, layer-wise and spot-to-spot alignment accuracy, and 3D reconstruction, which are designed to assess method performance as well as data quality. The code used for evaluation is available on our GitHub. Additionally, we provide online notebook tutorials and documentation to facilitate the reproduction of all benchmarking results and to support the study of new methods and new datasets.

Conclusions

Our analyses lead to comprehensive recommendations that cover multiple aspects, helping users to select optimal tools for their specific needs and guide future method development.
Green micellar UPLC and complementary eco-friendly spectroscopic techniques for simultaneous analysis of anti-COVID drugs: a comprehensive evaluation of greenness, blueness, and whiteness
Authors: katamesh Noha S. , Abbas Ahmed Emad F. , Halim Michael K. , Abdel-Lateef Mohamed A. , Mahmoud Shimaa A.
Published: August 2024

The development of sustainable analytical methodologies that minimize hazards, waste generation, and energy consumption has become crucial. This study introduces pioneering green‒blue-white approaches for the simultaneous quantification of montelukast sodium (MLK) and fexofenadine hydrochloride (FEX) in combination formulations. The first approach employs an ultra-performance liquid chromatographic method (UPLC) with a green micellar mobile phase of 0.02 M sodium dodecyl sulfate and 10% 1-pentanol (65:35%). The method demonstrated excellent resolution, peak symmetry, and a short analysis time, with retention times of 3.53 min for MLK and 1.67 min for FEX. The MLK and FEX linearities were 1–260 and 1.2–312 μg/mL, respectively. The second approach involves complementary built-in spectroscopic techniques (second derivative, third derivative, and ratio difference methods) using water as a solvent, providing a green, simple, low-cost alternative in laboratories where expensive chromatographic devices may not be readily available. The MLK and FEX linearities were 3–50 and 3–60 μg/mL, respectively. All methods were comprehensively validated and showed satisfactory results. The proposed methods demonstrated excellent linearity (r2 ≥ 0.9990), accuracy (recovery 98.5–101.5%), and precision (RSD ≤ 2%) across wide concentration ranges. A multifaceted evaluation was conducted to assess the environmental sustainability, real-world applicability, and economic viability of the proposed methods in comparison with previously reported techniques. This comprehensive assessment leveraged several state-of-the-art tools, including NEMI, ComplexGAPI, AGREE, ESA, BAGI, and RGB12. The suggested approaches exhibited favorable quadrant profiles in the NEMI and ComplexGAPI assessments, coupled with higher AGREE scores (0.90, 0.86) than reported (0.62, 0.74, 0.75, 0.69, 0.74, 0.74, and 0.75), in addition to higher ESA score (88, 92) than reported (75, 84, 85, 79, 82, 82, and 83), collectively affirming their environmentally friendly credentials. Moreover, we embraced the innovative notions of 'blueness' and 'whiteness' assessment by harnessing the recently formulated BAGI and RGB12 algorithms. The higher BAGI score (90, 82.5) than reported (72.5, 70, 70, 67.5, 67.5, 67.5, and 72.5), confirmed the excellent real-world applicability of the proposed methods, while the notable RGB12 indices (89.8, 88.1) than reported (67.8, 72.8, 71.5, 67.1, 73.7, 70.3, and 73.2), validated their cost-effectiveness and overall sustainability, contributing to an eco-friendly future for quality control processes.
First detection of Leishmania major in dogs living in an endemic area of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis in Tunisia
Authors: Maurelli Maria Paola , Zribi Lilia , Fayala Nour El Houda Ben , Manzillo Valentina Foglia , Balestrino Ines , Hamdi Noureddine , Bouratbine Aida , Gizzarelli Manuela , Rinaldi Laura , Aoun Karim , Oliva Gaetano
Published: August 2024

﻿Abstract

Background

Dogs are considered the main domestic animals that may be a reservoir for Leishmania infantum, the agent of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis (ZVL) in several countries of the world. The dog may host other Leishmania species, but its epidemiological role in the maintenance and spreading of these parasites is not completely elucidated. Zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL), caused by Leishmania major, affects thousands of people every year and is particularly diffused in many countries of North Africa and Middle East Asia. In ZCL endemic countries, few reports of L. major-positive dogs have been reported, probably because most human cases occur in poor rural areas where the social role of the dog and its medical management is not well considered. The aim of the present study is to better understand the possible involvement of domestic dogs in the epidemiology of ZCL.

Methods

Our research focused on a well-established endemic focus of ZCL, in the area of Echrarda, Kairouan Governorate, central Tunisia. A total of 51 dogs with no or mild clinical signs of vector borne diseases were selected in small villages where human cases of ZCL are yearly present. All dogs were sampled for the Leishmania spp. diagnosis, by using the following procedures: blood sample for serology and buffy coat quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), popliteal fine needle aspiration, and cutaneous biopsy punch for lymph node and skin qPCR.

Results

The results demonstrated a high percentage (21.6%) of dogs positive at least at one or more test; the most sensitive technique was the lymph node qPCR that detected 8/11 positive dogs. Nine, out of the eleven positive dogs, resulted as infected by Leishmania infantum; ITS1-PCR-sequencing allowed Leishmania major identification in the remaining two cases, both from the popliteal lymph node samples, which can suggest a possible visceral spread of a cutaneous Leishmania species in the dog. Interestingly, one of the two L. major-positive dogs was living in the same house where 6-year-old children showed cutaneous lesions referred to as ZCL.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report of L. major-positive dogs in Tunisia, the  epidemiological role of which remains under investigation.

Graphical Abstract
PointPCA: point cloud objective quality assessment using PCA-based descriptors
Authors: Alexiou Evangelos , Zhou Xuemei , Viola Irene , Cesar Pablo
Published: August 2024

Point clouds denote a prominent solution for the representation of 3D photo-realistic content in immersive applications. Similarly to other imaging modalities, quality predictions for point cloud contents are vital for a wide range of applications, enabling trade-off optimizations between data quality and data size in every processing step from acquisition to rendering. In this work, we focus on use cases that consider human end-users consuming point cloud contents and, hence, we concentrate on visual quality metrics. In particular, we propose a set of perceptually relevant descriptors based on principal component analysis (PCA) decomposition, which is applied to both geometry and texture data for full-reference point cloud quality assessment. Statistical features are derived from these descriptors to characterize local shape and appearance properties for both a reference and a distorted point cloud. The extracted statistical features are subsequently compared to provide corresponding predictions of visual quality for the distorted point cloud. As part of our method, a learning-based approach is proposed to fuse these individual predictors to a unified perceptual score. We validate the accuracy of the individual predictors, as well as the unified quality scores obtained after regression against subjectively annotated datasets, showing that our metric outperforms state-of-the-art solutions. Insights regarding design decisions are provided through exploratory studies, evaluating the performance of our metric under different parameter configurations, attribute domains, color spaces, and regression models. A software implementation of the proposed metric is made available at the following link: https://github.com/cwi-dis/pointpca.
Deconstructing stigmatising narratives: a qualitative analysis of contrast devices in interviews with mothers with a mental illness
Authors: Schamschula Monika , Paul Jean Lillian
Published: August 2024

Background

In the context of stigma and mental health research, limited empirical studies examine stigma through the positioning of individuals within interview contexts. This study addresses this gap by investigating the positioning processes in interviews with mothers with a mental illness, with a specific focus on the use of contrast devices as a strategy identified through analysis. By analysing how mothers position themselves through contrast devices and to which discourses they refer, this study provides insights into how stigmatising discourses are evident in the narratives of mothers with a mental illness.

Methods

This study is based on 20 semi-narrative interviews with mothers with a mental illness who participated in the Village Project (a pilot project co-created for children of parents with mental illness in Tyrol, Austria). Our analysis focuses on identifying stigmatising discourses related to motherhood and mental illness by examining the use of contrast devices in their accounts.

Results

The analysis shows insights into mothers’ efforts to distance themselves from labels such as ‘bad mother’, ‘not normal/crazy women’ and ‘weak person’. These positions often carry a gendered dimension, with motherhood emerging as a central position. Our study highlights the challenges mothers with a mental illness face in navigating societal norms and expectations related to motherhood during research interviews.

Conclusion

The research contributes to a deeper understanding of mental health stigma in the context of motherhood, emphasising the importance of considering gendered dynamics and societal expectations in mental health research.
Development, optimization, and characterization of vitamin C-fortified oleogel-based chewable gels and a novel nondestructive analysis method for the vitamin C assay
Authors: Sabourian Reyhaneh , Dorkoosh Farid Abedin , Khoshayand Mohammad Reza , Amini Mohsen , Tamiji Zahra , Ghasemi Jahan B. , Sadeghi Naficeh , Hajimahmoodi Mannan
Published: August 2024

Chewable gels represent an excellent alternative to oral dosage forms, such as tablets and capsules, owing to their appealing appearance, easy swallowing, and attractive colors. Given the inherent instability of vitamin C, particularly within chewable gels, it is imperative to enhance its stability and mitigate its degradation during processing and storage. Oleogel, systems prepared through an environmentally friendly and pollution-free method, exhibit a three-dimensional network structure that eliminates oxygen, alleviates oxidation, and enhances vitamin C stability. This study focused on optimizing vitamin C-fortified oleogel-based chewable gels using Plackett–Burman and D-Optimal design methodologies to maximize vitamin C stability while maintaining favorable mechanical properties. The optimal formulation, Opt-C, was achieved by crystallizing the gel at -18 °C, incorporating 2.5 g of distilled monoglyceride (DMG), and maintaining an oleogel-to-chewable gel ratio of 10%. Opt-C was comprehensively characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and its stability was rigorously assessed. Furthermore, a nondestructive assay method for vitamin C determination in chewable gels was developed employing near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and chemometric techniques. Storage studies demonstrated that Opt-C retained 85% of its vitamin C content during accelerated tests over ten weeks, surpassing the 69% retention observed in the control chewable gel. Opt-C exhibited a slower release of vitamin C in simulated digestive fluids; however, this release profile did not adversely impact the overall availability of vitamin C. Ultimately, the developed multivariate model successfully predicts vitamin C concentration: root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC): 0.284, $${\text{R}}_{\text{cal}}^{2}$$

R

cal

2

: 0.9906; RMSE cross-validation (RMSECV): 0.501, $${\text{R}}_{\text{val}}^{2}$$

R

val

2

: 0.9722; RMSE prediction (RMSEP): 0.670, $${\text{R}}_{\text{pred}}^{2}$$

R

pred

2

: 0.9154. This innovative approach enhances the stability of water-soluble vitamins in chewable gels.

Graphical Abstract
CT attenuation values predict liver injury in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Abdi Negar , Ghaznavi Hamid
Published: August 2024

Background

Liver injuries such as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis, and steatosis are common in COVID-19 patients. Unenhanced CT can be used to diagnose the morphological traits of steatosis and cirrhosis. This study aims to provide a clear overview on the association between liver injuries and decreased hepatic CT attenuation values on chest CT images in patients with COVID-19.

Main text

Measuring HU values can be used as an additional method to diagnose liver injuries, even though HU values alone cannot definitively diagnose specific liver diseases. Chest CT is a common imaging procedure for diagnosing pneumonia, and during this CT examination, the upper abdomen, including the liver and spleen, is incidentally captured on the CT scan. Therefore, the assessment of liver injuries in chest CT of patients with COVID-19 can be performed by measuring the HU value of the liver and spleen. In this review, we summarize all the currently available CT findings in liver injuries associated with decreased hepatic CT attenuation values.

Conclusion

We found out that liver injuries such as hepatic steatosis and metabolic disease were more frequent in the COVID-19 patient, especially in severe and ICU patients. Compared to control group and COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms, the hepatic CT attenuation values and L/S ratios were lower in research group and severe COVID-19 patients.
Vertical movement of microplastics by roots of wheat plant (Triticum aestivum) and the plant response in sandy soil
Authors: Tumwet Faith Chebet , Richter Anne , Kleint Tomas , Scheytt Traugott
Published: August 2024

Microplastics persist as a challenging pollutant in agroecosystems, posing potential risks to soil health and crop productivity. Root growth, elongation and expansion may significantly influence the vertical transport and infiltration of microplastics into the soil profile. Wheat plants (Triticum aestivum) grown in 70 cm deep rhizotrons were investigated for their influence on the vertical movement of two prevalent microplastic shapes, polyester fibres and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) fragments. Wheat was chosen for its dense and extensive fibrous and fine root system, which is a robust model for studying root-soil-microplastic interactions. Microplastics at a 0.24% w/w dry soil weight concentration were homogeneously distributed in the topsoil (0–20 cm). Infiltration of polyester fibres up to 50 cm into the soil profile was discerned as strong adherence to plant roots. PVC fragments exhibited greater mobility, reaching depths of 70 cm in the presence and absence of wheat plants. Plant growth response on exposure to microplastics appeared in the form of increased root branching and decreased shoot biomass, indicating a stress response in wheat plants. The results prove the vertical movement of microplastics, while the infiltration depth was influenced by microplastic shape. Movement was detected as either strong adherence of polyester fibres to plant roots or infiltration of PVC fragments. PVC fragments may have infiltrated through preferential flow paths in soil pores and the fissures created by root elongation and water movement.
Psychiatric evidence in UK immigration and asylum cases
Authors: Galappathie Nuwan
Published: August 2024

This article critically reviews the case law, guidance and standards related to the provision of expert psychiatric evidence in immigration and asylum cases in the UK. It discusses the potentially complex and medico-legally challenging process of psychiatric evaluation of asylum seekers, and the implications of the presence of psychiatric disorders for issues such as the individual's ability to give oral evidence in court, immigration detention, fitness to fly, removal, deportation, ability to reintegrate into the destination country and appeal rights. To give context to the discussion, it outlines the asylum process in the UK from claiming asylum, initial screening and the ‘substantive interview’ to, if a claim is rejected, appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber), detention and the removal process.
Air pollutants, genetic susceptibility and the risk of schizophrenia: large prospective study
Authors: Liu Run , Li Dankang , Ma Yudiyang , Tang Lingxi , Chen Ruiqi , Tian Yaohua
Published: August 2024

Background

Evidence linking air pollutants and the risk of schizophrenia remains limited and inconsistent, and no studies have investigated the joint effect of air pollutant exposure and genetic factors on schizophrenia risk.

Aims

To investigate how exposure to air pollution affects schizophrenia risk and the potential effect modification of genetic susceptibility.

Method

Our study was conducted using data on 485 288 participants from the UK Biobank. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the schizophrenia risk as a function of long-term air pollution exposure presented as a time-varying variable. We also derived the schizophrenia polygenic risk score (PRS) utilising data provided by the UK Biobank, and investigated the modification effect of genetic susceptibility.

Results

During a median follow-up period of 11.9 years, 417 individuals developed schizophrenia (mean age 55.57 years, s.d. = 8.68; 45.6% female). Significant correlations were observed between long-term exposure to four air pollutants (PM2.5; PM10; nitrogen oxides, NOx; nitrogen dioxide, NO2) and the schizophrenia risk in each genetic risk group. Interactions between genetic factors and the pollutants NO2 and NOx had an effect on schizophrenia events. Compared with those with low PRS and low air pollution, participants with high PRS and high air pollution had the highest risk of incident schizophrenia (PM2.5: hazard ratio = 6.25 (95% CI 5.03–7.76); PM10: hazard ratio = 7.38 (95% CI 5.86–9.29); NO2: hazard ratio = 6.31 (95% CI 5.02–7.93); NOx: hazard ratio = 6.62 (95% CI 5.24–8.37)).

Conclusions

Long-term exposure to air pollutants was positively related to the schizophrenia risk. Furthermore, high genetic susceptibility could increase the effect of NO2 and NOx on schizophrenia risk.
Habitual Coffee, Tea, and Caffeine Consumption, Circulating Metabolites, and the Risk of Cardiometabolic Multimorbidity
Authors: Lu Xujia , Zhu Xiaohong , Li Guochen , Wu Luying , Shao Liping , Fan Yulong , Pan Chen-Wei , Wu Ying , Borné Yan , Ke Chaofu
Published: August 2024

Context

Cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CM) is an increasing public health concern. Previous observational studies have suggested inverse associations between coffee, tea, and caffeine intake and risks of individual cardiometabolic diseases; however, their associations with CM and related biological markers are unknown.

Methods

This prospective study involved 172 315 (for caffeine analysis) and 188 091 (tea and coffee analysis) participants free of any cardiometabolic diseases at baseline from the UK Biobank; 168 metabolites were measured among 88 204 and 96 393 participants. CM was defined as the coexistence of at least 2 of the following conditions: type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

Results

Nonlinear inverse associations of coffee, tea, and caffeine intake with the risk of new-onset CM were observed. Compared with nonconsumers or consumers of less than 100 mg caffeine per day, consumers of moderate amount of coffee (3 drinks/d) or caffeine (200-300 mg/d) had the lowest risk for new-onset CM, with respective hazard ratios (95% CIs) of 0.519 (0.417-0.647) and 0.593 (0.499-0.704). Multistate models revealed that moderate coffee or caffeine intake was inversely associated with risks of almost all developmental stages of CM, including transitions from a disease-free state to single cardiometabolic diseases and subsequently to CM. A total of 80 to 97 metabolites, such as lipid components within very low-density lipoprotein, histidine, and glycoprotein acetyls, were identified to be associated with both coffee, tea, or caffeine intake and incident CM.

Conclusion

Habitual coffee or caffeine intake, especially at a moderate level, was associated with a lower risk of new-onset CM and could play important roles in almost all transition phases of CM development. Future studies are warranted to validate the implicated metabolic biomarkers underlying the relation between coffee, tea, and caffeine intake and CM.
Neonatal Severe Hyperparathyroidism Causing Life-Threatening Hypercalcemia Treated With Medical and Surgical Management
Authors: Rosettenstein Kerri , Parasyn Andrew , Neville Kristen , Hameed Shihab
Published: August 2024

A 3-day-old male presented to a peripheral remote hospital in New South Wales, Australia, with tachypnea. He was found to have hypercalcemia, with ionized calcium >2.5 mmol/L (>10 mg/dL) (0.97-1.5 mmol/L or 1.14-1.3 mg/dL) and serum calcium of 3.85 mmol/L (15.43 mg/dL) (2.2-2.8 mmol/L or 8.5-10.5 mg/dL). Peak serum calcium was 5.4 mmol/L (21.64 mg/dL). He was transferred to a tertiary pediatric intensive care unit. Medical management (including hyperhydration, diuretics, corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, cinacalcet, and calcitonin) failed to maintain normocalcemia; therefore, total parathyroidectomy was performed on day 16 of life. Hungry bones syndrome developed postoperatively, requiring high doses of calcium, calcitriol, and phosphate supplementation. Genetic testing identified compound heterozygosity for 2 likely pathogenic variants in the calcium-sensing receptor gene. He is now 3 years old and is growing and developing without any concerns. This case highlights the importance of aggressive initial management in addressing severe hypercalcemia through perioperative management principles as well as the prolonged nature of hungry bones syndrome.
Rapid Resolution of Recalcitrant Headache With Pasireotide in an Adult Patient With Acromegaly
Authors: Dabbous Zeinab , Rohani Zaina , Abdalrubb Abeer Kaled , Alkailani Yaman , Pivonello Rosario , Elhadd Tarik
Published: August 2024

Acromegaly is a chronic hormonal disorder caused by excessive GH secretion. In addition to physiological symptoms, it is often accompanied by debilitating headaches. Although effective treatment options exist, achieving complete symptom control and disease management can still be challenging. This case report chronicles the clinical journey of a 38-year-old male diagnosed with acromegaly in 2013. Despite prior interventions, including surgery and treatment with first-generation somatostatin analogues, severe frequent headaches persisted. Following a switch to pasireotide, the patient reported rapid and complete resolution of headaches and normalization of IGF-1 levels within a month of the treatment switch. This report underscores the challenges in acromegaly management and confirms the potential utility of pasireotide for patients suffering from treatment-resistant headache.
The Nature of Awareness Growth
Authors: de Canson Chloé
Published: August 2024

Awareness growth—coming to entertain propositions of which one was previously unaware—is a crucial aspect of epistemic thriving. And yet, it is widely believed that orthodox Bayesianism cannot accommodate this phenomenon since that would require employing supposedly defective catchall propositions. Orthodox Bayesianism, it is concluded, must be amended. In this article, I show that this argument fails and that, on the contrary, the orthodox version of Bayesianism is particularly well suited to accommodate awareness growth. For it entails what I call the refinement view, which allows us to capture that awareness growth consists in the increase of one’s capacity of discernment.
Pandemic Times and Health Care Exclusion: Attitudes toward Health Care Exclusion of Undocumented Immigrants
Authors: Nunez Cesar Vargas
Published: August 2024

Context: Most of the 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the United States are excluded from government health care programs. Yet, health care inequities pose significant dangers to all members of society during a pandemic. This project explores to what extent undocumented immigrants, in the context of a pandemic, can be seen as deserving of access to government health care programs.

Methods: The project's first survey experiment explores whether work ethic can affect perceptions of undocumented immigrants as deserving of government health care programs. The second survey experiment tests to what extent appeals to fairness and self-interest, during a pandemic, shape health care deservingness attitudes.

Findings: The results show that respondents view undocumented immigrants as less deserving of health care than citizens, even when undocumented immigrants have a solid work history. The second survey experiment, however, shows that appeals to fairness and self-interest trigger substantial increases in support for undocumented immigrants among both Republicans and Democrats.

Conclusions: The results suggest that while undocumented immigrants are seen as less deserving of access, appeals to fairness and self-interest can trigger increased support.