bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiological characteristics and injury mechanism of Logsplitter injury: a descriptive and retrospective study
Authors: Liang Jing-Qi , Zhang Yan , Yue Yang , Feng Hui , Liu Pei-Long , Liang Xiao-Jun , Zhao Hong-Mou
Published: July 2024

Background

Logsplitter Injury is a type of high-energy ankle fracture dislocation. The mechanism of injury has not been described in detail. A detailed understanding of the radiological features and pathological changes can further guide treatment.

Methods

Between April 2009 and December 2018, a retrospective analysis was conducted on 62 patients with Logsplitter injury. The study analysed the characteristics of fibular injury, tibial injury, syndesmosis injury, medial injury and lateral ligament injury on preoperative X-ray and CT scans. The incidence of the different injury types was summarised. The correlation between Logsplitter injuries and the mechanisms causing them were analysed using the Lauge-Hansen classification of ankle fractures.

Results

The study provides data on the types of fractures observed. Of the total fractures, 98.4% were open fractures. The fibula injuries were classified as no fracture (1.6%), transverse or short oblique fractures (61.3%), butterfly fragments (25.8%), and comminuted fractures (11.3%). The tibial injuries included compression of lateral articular surfaces (38.7%) and posterior compressions (6.5%). Medial injuries, including medial malleolar fractures, accounted for 87.1%, and deltoid ligament rupture accounted for 12.9%. The study found that injuries to the syndesmosis consisted of simple ligament ruptures (11.3%), Tillaux fractures (8.1%), Volkmann fractures (43.5%), and Tillaux and Volkmann fractures (37.1%). In 12.9% of cases, there was a complete rupture of the lateral collateral ligament. Based on the Lauge-Hansen classification, 87.1% of injuries were pronation-abduction injuries, while 8.1% were pronation and external rotation injuries, and 1.6% were supination external rotation injuries. Furthermore, 3.2% of cases could not be classified.

Conclusion

The pathoanatomic characteristics of Logsplitter injury are diverse, with some cases accompanied by collateral ligament injury. It is important to note that these evaluations are objective and based on current results. The most common injury mechanism is vertical violence combined with abduction, although in some cases, it may be a vertical combined external-rotation injury.

Level of evidence

(4) case series.

Trial registration

This study has been approved by the ethical research committee of the Honghui Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, under the code: 202,003,002.
Interprofessional contact with conventional healthcare providers in oncology: a survey among complementary medicine practitioners
Authors: Mentink Marit , Jansen Julia , Noordman Janneke , van Vliet Liesbeth , Busch Martine , van Dulmen Sandra
Published: July 2024

Background

Half of all patients with cancer use complementary medicine. Given the benefits and risks associated with complementary medicine use, contact between complementary medicine practitioners and conventional healthcare providers (oncologists, nurses) is important for monitoring the health and well-being of mutual patients with cancer. Research on occurrence of such interprofessional contact is scarce. This study aims to describe complementary medicine practitioners’ experiences with contact with conventional healthcare providers about mutual patients with cancer and the importance they attach to patient disclosure of complementary medicine use to their conventional healthcare provider. Predictors for interprofessional contact are explored.

Methods

An online survey was administered among complementary medicine practitioners who treat patients with cancer or cancer survivors and who are member of a professional association in the Netherlands.

Results

The survey was completed by 1481 complementary medicine practitioners. 40% of the participants reported to have contact with conventional healthcare providers of patients with cancer. Only 13% of the complementary medicine practitioners experienced conventional healthcare providers as open to communication with them. An explorative logistic regression showed that openness of conventional healthcare providers as experienced by complementary medicine practitioners was the most important predictor for the occurrence of interprofessional contact (OR = 8.12, 95% CI 5.12–12.86, p < .001). Most complementary medicine practitioners (82%) considered it important that patients disclose complementary medicine use to their conventional healthcare provider and 49% of the participants always motivates their patients to do so.

Conclusions

Interprofessional contact with conventional healthcare providers in oncology occurs but is not routine for most complementary medicine practitioners. More than one-third of the surveyed complementary medicine practitioners experienced conventional healthcare providers as not open to communication with them. The openness of conventional healthcare providers as experienced by complementary practitioners is an important predictor for interprofessional contact to take place. Most complementary practitioners acknowledge the importance of patient disclosure of complementary medicine use to their conventional healthcare provider. Open communication about the topic of complementary medicine use between complementary practitioners, conventional healthcare providers and patients prevents overlooking relevant medical information and facilitates optimal monitoring of health and safety of patients with cancer.
Expanding vaccination competencies to community pharmacists: modelling the organizational and economic impacts of new human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine pathways in France
Authors: Julia Bruno , Foerst Claire , Akarkoub Sarah , Azzazene Sarah , Grémaud Nathalie , Sénégas Romain Olivier , Mourlat Benoit , Mamane Carole , Bensimon Lionel , Farge Gaëlle
Published: July 2024

Background

The vaccine coverage rate (VCR) for human papillomavirus (HPV) in France is one of the lowest in Europe, well below the target of 80% announced in the French Cancer Plan 2021–2030. The extension of vaccination competencies (prescription and administration) to new health care providers, such as community pharmacists (CPs), was a decisive step by the French Health Authority (HAS) in 2022 to simplify access to vaccination and improve the VCR. This research assessed the economic and organizational impacts (OIs) of the extension of vaccination competencies in France.

Methods

A model was developed in Excel® to compare the current HPV vaccination pathway focused on general practitioners (GPs) to a mix of pathways (new and current) that extends pharmacists’ competencies (prescription and/or injection). The simulated population corresponded to girls and boys targeted by the French recommendations. The model was run from 2023 to 2030. HAS guidelines were used to identify OIs related to these new pathways. Model inputs were collected from national data sources and an acceptability study. The results focused on three OIs (HPV vaccination ability [defined as the number of adolescents who could be vaccinated in each pathway], the VCR projection, and flows of activity between health care professionals]). The economic impact was evaluated from the National Health Insurance (NHI) perspective in 2022.

Results

With a mix of vaccination pathways, including an increasing role of pharmacists, the target of an 80% VCR could be reached in 2030 (versus 2032 with the current pathway) with lower investment than the current situation, resulting in cost savings for the NHI of €212 million. Expanding vaccination competencies will provide pharmacists with additional revenue (an average of €755,000/month for all vaccinating pharmacies) and will free up medical time for GPs (average of 603,000 consultations/year for all GPs).

Conclusions

Expanding vaccination competencies to pharmacists has a positive impact on the entire ecosystem. From a public health perspective, the national VCR target can be achieved and better access to care can be provided, freeing up medical time. From an economic perspective, this approach can provide savings for the NHI and additional revenue for pharmacists.
Efficacy of educational interventions on improving medical emergency readiness of rural healthcare providers: a scoping review
Authors: Sreeram Anju , Nair Ram , Rahman Muhammad Aziz
Published: July 2024

Background

Medical emergencies are the leading cause of high mortality and morbidity rates in rural areas of higher and lower-income countries than in urban areas. Medical emergency readiness is healthcare providers’ knowledge, skills, and confidence to meet patients’ emergency needs. Rural healthcare professionals’ medical emergency readiness is imperative to prevent or reduce casualties due to medical emergencies. Evidence shows that rural healthcare providers’ emergency readiness needs enhancement. Education and training are the effective ways to improve them. However, there has yet to be a scoping review to understand the efficacy of educational intervention regarding rural healthcare providers’ medical emergency readiness.

Objectives

This scoping review aimed to identify and understand the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving rural healthcare providers’ medical emergency readiness globally.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews were used to select the papers for this scoping review. This scoping review was conducted using MEDLINE, CINHAL, SCOPUS, PUBMED and OVID databases. The Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome [PICO] strategies were used to select the papers from the database. The selected papers were limited to English, peer-reviewed journals and published from 2013 to 2023. A total of 536 studies were retrieved, and ten studies that met the selection criteria were included in the review. Three reviewers appraised the selected papers individually using the Joanna Briggs Institute [JBI] critical appraisal tool. A descriptive method was used to analyse the data.

Results

From the identified 536 papers, the ten papers which met the PICO strategies were selected for the scoping review. Results show that rural healthcare providers’ emergency readiness remains the same globally. All interventions were effective in enhancing rural health care providers’ medical emergency readiness, though the interventions were implemented at various durations of time and in different foci of medical emergencies. Results showed that the low-fidelity simulated manikins were the most cost-effective intervention to train rural healthcare professionals globally.

Conclusion

The review concluded that rural healthcare providers’ medical emergency readiness improved after the interventions. However, the limitations associated with the studies caution readers to read the results sensibly. Moreover, future research should focus on understanding the interventions’ behavioural outcomes, especially among rural healthcare providers in low to middle-income countries.
Scaling up noncommunicable disease care in a resource-limited context: lessons learned and implications for policy
Authors: Mamo Yoseph , Mekoro Mirchaye , Phillips David I. W. , Mortimore Andrew
Published: July 2024

Background

Although primary care models for the care of common non-communicable diseases (NCD) have been developed in sub-Saharan Africa, few have described an integrated, decentralized approach at the community level. We report the results of a four-year, Ethiopian project to expand this model of NCD care to 15 primary hospitals and 45 health centres encompassing a wide geographical spread and serving a population of approximately 7.5 million people.

Methods

Following baseline assessment of the 60 sites, 30 master trainers were used to cascade train a total of 621 health workers in the diagnosis, management and health education of the major common NCDs identified in a scoping review (hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease and epilepsy). Pre- and post-training assessments and regular mentoring visits were carried out to assess progress and remedy supply or equipment and medicines shortages and establish reporting systems. The project was accompanied by a series of community engagement activities to raise awareness and improve health seeking behaviour.

Results

A total of 643,296 people were screened for hypertension and diabetes leading to a new diagnosis in 24,313 who were started on treatment. Significant numbers of new cases of respiratory disease (3,986) and epilepsy (1,925) were also started on treatment. Mortality rates were low except among patients with hypertension in the rural health centres where 311 (10.2%) died during the project. Loss to follow up (LTFU), defined as failure to attend clinic for > 6 months despite reminders, was low in the hospitals but represented a significant problem in the urban and rural health centres with up to 20 to 30% of patients with hypertension or diabetes absenting from treatment by the end of the project. Estimates of the population disease burden enrolled within the project, however, were disappointing; asthma (0.49%), hypertension (1.7%), epilepsy (3.3%) and diabetes (3.4%).

Conclusion

This project demonstrates the feasibility of scaling up integrated NCD services in a variety of locations, with fairly modest costs and a methodology that is replicable and sustainable. However, the relatively small gain in the detection and treatment of common NCDs highlights the huge challenge in making NCD services available to all.
A convenient broad-host counterselectable system endowing rapid genetic manipulations of Kluyveromyces lactis and other yeast species
Authors: Zheng Yanli , Deng Yuhui , Hu Ping , Wang Shiqing , Wu Jiawen , Luo Siqi , Lei Lei , Yang Jiangke , Peng Wenfang
Published: July 2024

Being generally regarded as safe, Kluyveromyces lactis has been widely taken for food, feed, and pharmaceutical applications, owing to its ability to achieve high levels of protein secretion and hence being suitable for industrial production of heterologous proteins. Production platform strains can be created through genetic engineering; while prototrophic cells without chromosomally accumulated antibiotics resistance genes have been generally preferred, arising the need for dominant counterselection. We report here the establishment of a convenient counterselection system based on a Frs2 variant, Frs2v, which is a mutant of the alpha-subunit of phenylalanyl-tRNA synthase capable of preferentially incorporating a toxic analog of phenylalanine, r-chloro-phenylalanine (4-CP), into proteins to bring about cell growth inhibition. We demonstrated that expression of Frs2v from an episomal plasmid in K. lactis could make the host cells sensitive to 2 mM 4-CP, and a Frs2v-expressing plasmid could be efficiently removed from the cells immediately after a single round of cell culturing in a 4-CP-contianing YPD medium. This Frs2v-based counterselection helped us attain scarless gene replacement in K. lactis without any prior engineering of the host cells. More importantly, counterselection with this system was proven to be functionally efficient also in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Komagataella phaffii, suggestive of a broader application scope of the system in various yeast hosts. Collectively, this work has developed a strategy to enable rapid, convenient, and high-efficiency construction of prototrophic strains of K. lactis and possibly many other yeast species, and provided an important reference for establishing similar methods in other industrially important eukaryotic microbes.
Novel loci linked to serum lipid traits are identified in a genome-wide association study of a highly admixed Brazilian population - the 2015 ISA Nutrition
Authors: Leite Jean Michel R. S. , Pereira Jaqueline L. , Alves de Souza Camila , Pavan Soler Júlia M. , Mingroni-Netto Regina Célia , Fisberg Regina M. , Rogero Marcelo M. , Sarti Flavia M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) comprise major causes of death worldwide, leading to extensive burden on populations and societies. Alterations in normal lipid profiles, i.e., dyslipidemia, comprise important risk factors for CVDs. However, there is lack of comprehensive evidence on the genetic contribution to dyslipidemia in highly admixed populations. The identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to blood lipid traits in the Brazilian population was based on genome-wide associations using data from the São Paulo Health Survey with Focus on Nutrition (ISA-Nutrition).

Methods

A total of 667 unrelated individuals had genetic information on 330,656 SNPs available, and were genotyped with Axiom™ 2.0 Precision Medicine Research Array. Genetic associations were tested at the 10− 5 significance level for the following phenotypes: low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), HDL-c/LDL-c ratio, triglycerides (TGL), total cholesterol, and non-HDL-c.

Results

There were 19 significantly different SNPs associated with lipid traits, the majority of which corresponding to intron variants, especially in the genes FAM81A, ZFHX3, PTPRD, and POMC. Three variants (rs1562012, rs16972039, and rs73401081) and two variants (rs8025871 and rs2161683) were associated with two and three phenotypes, respectively. Among the subtypes, non-HDL-c had the highest proportion of associated variants.

Conclusions

The results of the present genome-wide association study offer new insights into the genetic structure underlying lipid traits in underrepresented populations with high ancestry admixture. The associations were robust across multiple lipid phenotypes, and some of the phenotypes were associated with two or three variants. In addition, some variants were present in genes that encode ncRNAs, raising important questions regarding their role in lipid metabolism.
Extracellular matrix hydrogels with fibroblast growth factor 2 containing exosomes for reconstructing skin microstructures
Authors: Zhou Zheng , Bu Ziheng , Wang Shiqiang , Yu Jianing , Liu Wei , Huang Junchao , Hu Jianhai , Xu Sudan , Wu Peng
Published: July 2024

Decellularized extracellular matrix hydrogel (ECM hydrogel), a natural material derived from normal tissue with unique biocompatibility properties, is widely used for tissue repair. However, there are still problems such as poor biological activity and insufficient antimicrobial property. To overcome these drawbacks, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF 2) containing exosome (exoFGF 2) was prepared to increase the biological activity. Furthermore, the antimicrobial capacity of ECM hydrogel was optimised by using copper ions as a ligand-bonded cross-linking agent. The decellularized extracellular matrix hydrogel, intricately cross-linked with copper ions through ligand bonds and loaded with FGF 2 containing exosome (exoFGF 2@ECM/Cu2+ hydrogel), has demonstrated exceptional biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties. In vitro, exoFGF 2@ECM/Cu2+ hydrogel effectively promoted cell proliferation, migration, antioxidant and inhibited bacterial growth. In vivo, the wound area of rat treated with exoFGF 2@ECM/Cu2+ hydrogels were significantly smaller than that of other groups at Day 5 (45.24% ± 3.15%), Day 10 (92.20% ± 2.31%) and Day 15 (95.22% ± 1.28%). Histological examination showed that exoFGF 2@ECM/Cu2+ hydrogels promoted angiogenesis and collagen deposition. Overall, this hydrogel has the potential to inhibit bacterial growth and effectively promote wound healing in a variety of clinical applications.
Development and psychometric evaluation of a pneumatic tourniquet work standards scale
Authors: Fanoudi Hamideh , Torabizadeh Camellia , Rakhshan Mahnaz , Shahcheraghi Gholam Hossain
Published: July 2024

Objective

Pneumatic tourniquets are among the most essential equipment for controlling bleeding in orthopedic surgeries. However, incorrect application of pneumatic tourniquets is accompanied by many hazards and complications for patients. Evaluation of surgical teams’ use of pneumatic tourniquets and establishment of protocols can play an important role in improving patient safety, minimizing risks, and increasing the lifetime of this equipment. Accordingly, the present study was conducted to develop and assess the psychometric properties of a pneumatic tourniquet work standards scale.

Methods

The present study is a methodological work carried out in two stages. In the first stage, an initial version of the scale was developed based on existing research and panel reviews. In the second stage, the psychometric properties of the scale were tested in terms of face validity (measured qualitatively and quantitatively), content validity (measured qualitatively and quantitatively), item analysis, construct validity, and reliability (internal consistency and stability).

Results

The initial version of the scale consisted of 91 items. After several meetings of the research team, the number of items decreased to 81. In the course of face and content validity testing, 40 items were eliminated, leaving 41 items on the scale when it entered the construct validity testing stage. For evaluation of construct validity, a sample of 300 operating room nurses was recruited. The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) results showed a structure supported by seven factors and 41 items. The reliability of the scale was confirmed by internal consistency analysis, with a good Cronbach’s alpha (0.85), and test–retest analysis, with good values of ICC (0.95).

Conclusion

The present instrument is a reliable and valid scale which fills the gap in assessment of surgical team members’ use of pneumatic tourniquets. The developed scale can be employed by researchers and managers of medical centers to identify hazards in applying pneumatic tourniquets and devise educational programs to eliminate or reduce the existing issues.
Early functional recovery outcomes and return to work after primary total hip arthroplasty: a novel patient reported outcomes questionnaire
Authors: Fawley David , Bernard Thierry , Thomason Henry Clayton , Zagra Luigi , ten Broeke René H.M. , Johnson Kory
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Clinical and patient reported outcomes are often collected before and after the procedure to benchmark and study outcomes for patients. These outcomes and scores are useful for tracking patient outcomes after surgery, however, the fact that these commonly used measures typically provide information about a patient’s level of pain and function at a single point in time is a limitation.

Methods

We present early functional recovery and return to work outcomes after primary THA from a novel questionnaire administered in a global, multi-center, prospective clinical study.

Results

By 6 and 12 weeks post-op, a large proportion of study subjects were able to perform functional recovery outcomes after their THA: walk without an aid (74%; 94%); drive (76%; 97%); basic activities of daily living (94%; 99%); perform light household duties (91%; 96%); perform moderate-to-heavy household duties (54%; 86%); go up and down a flight of stairs (92%; 99%); put on socks/stockings (77%; 93%); bend down to pick up an object from the floor (87%; 97%); stand up from a chair (96%; 99%); perform leisure recreational activities (54%; 84%); perform primary goal identified pre-THA (69%; 86%). 60% were able to return to work by 12 weeks post-op. These questions showed strong association with the Forgotten Joint Score.

Conclusion

Excellent patient reported early functional recovery outcomes and satisfaction were observed at 6- and 12-weeks post-op in this cohort and is the first reported data using a novel PRO.

Clinical trial registration

NCT03189303, registered June 14, 2017.
Non-intubated tracheal resection and reconstruction for a tracheal tumor in an 8-year-old child
Authors: Zhang Yaoliang , Mo Zhongqiao , Yang Chao , He Jianxing , Li Shuben , Lan Lan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

It has been reported that non-intubated anesthesia can be used successfully in adult trachea reconstruction. Herein, our center reported a case of a child undergoing non-intubated trachea reconstruction for benign tracheal tumors.

Case description

In January 2023, it was decided to attempt tracheal resection and reconstruction (TRR) in an 8-year-old child with an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor under non-intubated spontaneous breathing. After anesthesia induction, the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) was inserted. Thereafter, a bilateral superficial cervical plexus block was performed with 15 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine injected into each side. The patient was induced to resume spontaneous breathing by artificially assisted ventilation with an oxygen flow of 2 to 5 L/min and FiO2=1. After tracheotomy, the oxygen flow was increased to 15 L/min to improve the local oxygen flow to maintain the pulse oxygen saturation (SpO2) above 90% under spontaneous breathing. The patient had stable spontaneous breathing after tracheal anastomosis. The anastomosis was perfect without leakage. The LMA was removed and oxygen was given by the nasal catheter under light sedation at post anesthesia care unit (PACU).

Conclusion

Tracheal reconstruction under spontaneous breathing may be an alternative anesthesia method for upper tracheal surgery in children.
A morpho-phylogenetic update on ixodid ticks infesting cattle and buffalos in Vietnam, with three new species to the fauna and a checklist of all species indigenous to the country
Authors: Hornok Sándor , Farkas Róbert , Duong Ngoc Nhu , Kontschán Jenő , Takács Nóra , Keve Gergő , Pham Duan Ngoc , Dao Thanh Thi Ha
Published: July 2024

Background

Southeast Asia is regarded as a hotspot for the diversity of ixodid ticks. In this geographical region, Vietnam extends through both temperate and tropical climate zones and therefore has a broad range of tick habitats. However, molecular-phylogenetic studies on ixodid tick species have not been reported from this country.

Methods

In this study, 1788 ixodid ticks were collected from cattle, buffalos and a dog at 10 locations in three provinces of northern Vietnam. Tick species were identified morphologically, and representative specimens were molecularly analyzed based on the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) and 16S rRNA genes. Fifty-nine tick species that are indigenous in Vietnam were also reviewed in the context of their typical hosts in the region.

Results

Most ticks removed from cattle and buffalos were identified as Rhipicephalus microplus, including all developmental stages. Larvae and nymphs were found between January and July but adults until December. Further species identified from cattle were Rhipicephalus linnaei, Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides, Amblyomma integrum and Haemaphysalis cornigera. Interestingly, the latter three species were represented only by adults, collected in one province: Son La. The dog was infested with nymphs and adults of R. linnaei in July. Phylogenetically, R. microplus from Vietnam belonged to clade A of this species, and R. haemaphysaloides clustered separately from ticks identified under this name in China, Taiwan and Pakistan. Amblyomma integrum from Vietnam belonged to the phylogenetic group of haplotypes of an Amblyomma sp. reported from Myanmar. The separate clustering of H. cornigera from Haemaphysalis shimoga received moderate support.

Conclusions

Three tick species (R. linnaei, A. integrum and H. cornigera) are reported here for the first time in Vietnam, thus increasing the number of indigenous tick species to 62. Clade A of R. microplus and at least R. linnaei from the group of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato occur in the country. There is multiple phylogenetic evidence that different species might exist among the ticks that are reported under the name R. haemaphysaloides in South and East Asia. This is the first report of A. integrum in Southeastern Asia.

Graphical Abstract
The logarithmic Sobolev inequality on the Heisenberg group and applications to the uncertainty inequality and heat equation
Authors: Suguro Takeshi
Published: July 2024

We consider the logarithmic Sobolev inequality on the Heisenberg group. One can derive the logarithmic Sobolev inequality from the Sobolev inequality, and we consider an application to the uncertainty inequality on the Heisenberg group. Moreover, one can also obtain a dissipative estimate of a solution of the heat equation on the Heisenberg group from the logarithmic Sobolev inequality.
Baicalin promotes the sensitivity of NSCLC to cisplatin by regulating ferritinophagy and macrophage immunity through the KEAP1-NRF2/HO-1 pathway
Authors: Chen Yang , Bao Shujun , Wang Zhongzhao , Fang Zheng , Tang Hao
Published: July 2024

Background

Cisplatin (DDP) chemotherapy is commonly used in therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but increased drug resistance has become a huge obstacle. Baicalin (BA) contributed to the sensitivity of NSCLC to DDP. Here, we aimed to further probe the pathophysiological mechanisms of BA in NSCLC.

Methods

A549 and A549/DDP cells and xenograft mice were treated with BA and DDP. Xenograft mice were treated additionally with the NRF2 inducer (Bardoxolone methyl, BM) and KEAP1 knockdown. The levels of ferritinophagy-related proteins and biomarkers were determined. The autophagosomes were observed. M1 macrophage polarization and the contents of related indicators were analyzed. The involvement of KEAP1/NRF2/HO-1 was determined.

Results

BA inhibited cell development, and the effect of BA and DDP on cell development was additive. The abundance of ferritinophagy-related proteins and the number of autophagosomes were induced by BA. BA also promoted the transition of GSH to GSSH. BA favored M1 macrophage polarization and affected the expression of related proteins. When BA and DDP combined, these molecular phenomena were further exacerbated. BA induced accumulation of KEAP1 and reduction of NRF2 and HO-1. However, BM and KEAP1 knockdown disrupted the synergistic effects of BA and DDP on inhibiting NSCLC growth. BM and KEAP1 knockdown reversed DDP and BA-promoted protein expression activity and M1 macrophage polarization.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that BA is involved in ferritinophagy and macrophage immunity through the KEAP1-NRF2/HO-1 axis, thereby improving the DDP sensitivity in NSCLC, which could provide new candidates for treatment strategies.
METTL16 regulates the mRNA stability of FBXO5 via m6A modification to facilitate the malignant behavior of breast cancer
Authors: Wang Runying , Gao Xingjie , Xie Luhan , Lin Jiaqi , Ren Yanying
Published: July 2024

Background

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulates the progression of breast cancer (BC). We aimed to investigate the action and mechanism involved of methyltransferase-like protein 16 (METTL16) in BC growth and metastasis.

Methods

RT-qPCR, immunoblotting, and IHC were performed to test the levels of gene expression. CCK-8, clone formation, wound healing, and transwell assays were applied to measure the cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. m6A RNA methylation and MeRIP assay were utilized to confirm the m6A level of total RNA and FBXO5 mRNA. RIP was utilized to ascertain the interaction between METTL16 and FBXO5 mRNA. The in vivo murine subcutaneous tumor and metastasis model were constructed to further confirm the action of METTL16.

Results

METTL16 was overexpression in BC cells and tissues. Inhibition of METTL16 restrained the growth and metastasis of BC. Furthermore, the METTL16 level and FBXO5 level was positively correlated in BC tissues, and METTL16 aggrandized the stability of FBXO5 mRNA depending on the m6A modification. Overexpression of FBXO5 antagonized the restrained function of METTL16 knockdown on BC cells’ proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT.

Conclusion

METTL16 boosts the mRNA stability of FBXO5 via m6A modification to facilitate the malignant action of BC in vitro and in vivo, offering new latent targets for cure of BC.
Numerical simulation and analysis of a ducted-fan drone hovering in confined environments
Authors: Luo Yiwei , He Yuhang , Xu Bin , Ai Tianfu , Qian Yuping , Zhang Yangjun
Published: July 2024

Ducted-fan drones are expected to become the main drone configuration in the future due to their high efficiency and minimal noise. When drones operate in confined spaces, significant proximity effects may interfere with the aerodynamic performance and pose challenges to flight safety. This study utilizes computational fluid dynamics simulation with the Unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) method to estimate the proximity effects. Through experimental validation, our computational results show that the influence range of proximity effects lies within four rotor radii. The ground effect and the ceiling effect mainly affect thrust properties, while the wall effect mainly affects the lateral force and the pitching moment. In ground effect, the rotor thrust increases exponentially by up to 26% with ground distance compared with that in open space. Minimum duct thrust and total thrust are observed at one rotor radius above the ground. In ceiling effect, all the thrusts rise as the drone approaches the ceiling, and total thrust increases by up to 19%. In wall effect, all the thrusts stay constant. The pitching moment and lateral force rise exponentially with the wall distance. Changes in blade angle of attack and duct pressure distributions can account for the performance change. The results are of great importance to the path planning and flight controller design of ducted-fan drones for safe and efficient operations in confined environments.
Method and application of sand body thickness prediction based on virtual sample machine learning
Authors: Zhen Yan , Zhao Zhen , Zhao Xiaoming , Ge Jiawang , Zhang An , Yang Changcheng
Published: July 2024

The purposes of this paper are to clarify the spatial spreading characteristics of the channel sand body in the Jurassic Shaximiao Formation reservoir in central Sichuan and to improve the precision of channel characterization. Aiming at the problems of insufficient machine-learning training samples and a lack of continuity of prediction results in the study area, we select the no. 7 sand formation of the second member of the Shaximiao Formation as an example and use the method of combining the boosted regression tree (BRT) model and virtual points to accurately depict the spatial distribution of the sand body. Starting from the known sand thickness and seismic attribute data, the BRT model is used to fuse the selected attributes to obtain the preliminary prediction results. On this basis, grid division is used to select virtual points to obtain three virtual data sets for sand body prediction. The three predictions are then analyzed using the clustering-topology method to obtain the dominant regions, and the virtual points are selected a second time for the final sand body prediction. The results indicate that the prediction accuracy of the BRT model is improved compared with other machine-learning methods. Meanwhile, to address the insufficient number of samples in the study area, after using the two-stage virtual point generation method proposed in this paper, the [Formula: see text] of the test set in the model training results reaches 0.887. The final prediction results show that the sand body distribution effect is satisfactory, the lack of continuity of the channel can be improved, and the agreement with the well is high.
Mobile Health Technology for Personalized Tobacco Cessation Support Among Cancer Survivors and Caregivers in Laos: A Pilot Trial
Authors: Kulkarni Shweta , Xangsayarath Phonepadith , Soulaphy Chanthavy , Xayavong Dalouny , Phandouangsy Khatthanaphone , Keopaseuth Phayvanh , Alounlungsy Phetsamone , Le Tina N. , Vidrine Damon J. , Vidrine Jennifer I. , Le Phuc H. , Frank-Pearce Summer G. , Businelle Michael S. , Bui Thanh Cong
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

In Laos, tobacco smoking prevalence among cancer patients is high: 60% in men and 15% in women. However, there are no institutional or national tobacco treatment programs for cancer patients or their caregivers. To address this pressing need, we developed an mHealth-based, fully-automated, interactive intervention to help these populations quit smoking. This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of our mHealth intervention.

METHODS

Thirty cancer survivors and 50 independent caregivers were recruited from Lao National Cancer Center and Setthathirath Hospital in Vientiane Capital. Participants were randomized to Standard Care (SC, n=40) or Automated Intervention (AI, n=40). SC consisted of brief advice to quit, a 2-week supply of nicotine patches, and self-help materials. AI consisted of the SC components plus a smartphone-based fully-automated treatment program that involved interactive, tailored, proactive content (∼3 messages per day plus some images/videos) for a 3-month period.

RESULTS

Most participants belonged to Lao ethnicity (98.7%), 8.8% were female, and 57.5% lived in non-urban areas. There was a loss to follow-up at 3 months due to the death of a cancer patient. AI was acceptable: 61.5% of AI participants agreed that the Insight app was easy to use, 61.5% agreed that the message content was easy to understand, and 64.1% felt comfortable with opening the messages in public places. Regarding the preliminary efficacy, changes in self-efficacy to avoid smoking in various social situation (measured on a 5-point Likert scale) from baseline to the 3-month follow-up was 2.41 for AI and -0.04 for SC (paired t-test, P=0.516). Biochemically verified 7-day point prevalence abstinence at 3 months were 74% for AI and 40% for SC (relative risk, 1.85 [95% confidence interval, 1.21–2.83]).

CONCLUSION

Our mHealth-based AI for smoking cessation is acceptable and potentially efficacious among cancer survivors and caregivers in Laos. The observed quit rates for both groups at 3 months were considerably higher than rates in our previous studies in other Lao or Cambodian general patient populations, suggesting that cancer patients and caregivers, who are facing a real consequence of smoking (i.e., cancer), may be more determined to quit smoking.
Nanoparticle's Encapsulation As a Marker for Leading Cells in Collective Migration of Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Alexandrova Anastasia , Kontareva Elizaveta , Pustovalova Margarita , Leonov Sergey , Merkher Yulia
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer. Deaths related to cancer occur due to metastasis. In most types of solid tumors, spreading happens through collective migration, guided by “cellular leaders.” Previously, we have shown that 100-200 nm nanoparticles encapsulated more efficiently by cells with high metastatic potential (MP) than by cells with low MP. The aim of the current research is to quantitatively compare the encapsulation ability between metastatic cells that act as leaders during migration, and peripheral cells.

METHODS

We used Wound Healing Assay to study collective migration in two cell lines: MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 (low and high MP respectively). Firstly, we conducted calibration experiments to find the “optimal time”, when the cells reach the maximal speed during wound closure. Further, the cells were incubated with 200nm fluorescent nanoparticles for one hour prior to the determined “optimal time”. Digital images were acquired using fluorescent microscopy and Fiji software. Colocalization of nanoparticles was calculated using Pearson coefficient. Statistical differences were performed using ANOVA.

RESULTS

The highest wound closure rate for low MP cells was reached in 2.6 hours and for high MP cells in 3.9 (8 and 11% of wound area closure respectively). The coefficients of nanoparticle encapsulation were 0.063±0.005 and 0.046±0.004 at the edge of the wound and at peripheral area, respectively, for cells with high MP 0.039±0.003 and 0.027±0.002 for low MP. We observed a significant difference in encapsulation efficiency between leading and peripheral cells for both, high and low MP cells (p<0.013).

CONCLUSION

We have found the “optimal time” of wound closure, with the increased migration activity for each tested cell type. We have demonstrated that encapsulation efficiency of leading cells is significantly higher than for peripheral cells. Therefore, nanoparticles encapsulation can be used as a potential marker for most aggressive and invasive, leading cells in collective migration of breast cancer cells.
Non Adherence to Post Surgery Annual Surveilance Mammogram and Follow Up Among Breast Cancer Survivors in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Malaysia
Authors: Siaw Jia Yng , Mohamad Zaman Siti Asmah , Neoh Shi Hui , Wan Ali Sharifah Ashrina , Modamad Tazuddin Estrellita Elena , Bujang Mohamad Adam , Teoh Li Ying , Islam Tania , Mohd Taib Nur Aishah
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

The importance of surveillance mammogram and follow up post breast cancer surgery has been emphasised in most international and local guidelines including Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG). There is insufficient real-world data in Malaysia to assess the adherence to CPG guideline. This study aimed to determine the adherence rate and identify factors affecting patients adherence. Association between adherence to surveillance mammogram and follow up with survival rate is studied.

METHODS

776 women with newly diagnosed stage 1 to 3 breast cancer in Sarawak General Hospital between January 2010 and December 2018 post breast cancer surgery were included in this study. Sociodemographic, clinical, tumour and treatment characteristics and follow up details were collected from clinic records. Factors associated with compliance to mammogram in the first three years were analysed using logistic regression.

RESULTS

The adherence to surveillance mammogram declined gradually from 84.9% at the 1st year, 78.1% at the 5th year and 38.1 at the 10th year. Non adherence to surveillance mammogram in the first 3 years post surgery was significantly associated with 4 independent factors: Charlson Co-Morbidity Index Score (CCI) of >2, [odd ratio (OR) 3.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17-9.52 for CCI >2 versus CCI of 0];disease staging [OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.12-4.22 for stage 3 breast cancer, and OR 2.00, CI 1.04-3.18 for stage 2b breast cancer versus stage 1 breast cancer];chemotherapy [OR 1.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09-3.25 for patients who do not have chemotherapy versus reference group] and completion of recommended adjuvant therapy [OR 2.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03-7.11 for patient who do not complete recommended adjuvant therapy versus reference group]. Non-adherent to the first three-year surveillance mammogram is associated with a poorer 5-year overall survival rate.

CONCLUSION

There is a decline in adherence rate to annual surveillance mammogram over time among breast cancer survivors. Future study on measures to improve adherence in these subgroups of patients is needed.
Patient-Centricity Meter: A Scoping Review of Measures of Patient-Centricity in Cancer Care in LMICs
Authors: Sun Cindy , Thakkar Diksha , Taylor Carolyn , Cabanes Anna
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Patient-centered healthcare systems respect the experience, values, needs, and preferences of people with cancer in the planning, coordination, and delivery of care. Patient centricity is an essential component of a functional health system and a key vehicle to achieve equitable access to healthcare of quality, at all resource levels. The core components of patient-centered care are patient participation and involvement; patient-provider relationship; and the setting where care is delivered. However, patient centricity is conceptualized differently in different settings and among different stakeholders, impacting the effective implementation and evaluation of patient-centered initiatives. The purpose of this study was to identify measures of patient centricity and patient-centered system performance used in the context of low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), analyzing a valid set of patient-centered indicators for settings with limited resources, as a first step towards improving the patient-centricity of cancer care.

METHODS

We examined published articles reporting measures of patient-centered care (PCC) or a component of PCC in LMICs. Following PRISMA guidelines, we performed a systematic search of PubMed, Cinhal, and Embase. We limited the scope to original research studies and evaluations focused on LMICs between January 2004 and December 2022.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies reported evaluations in cancer care in LMICs. Twenty eight were conducted in upper-middle income countries, one in a lower-middle income country, and none in low-income countries. Most studies measured patient centricity on cancer care in general, or were specific to breast cancer. The elements of patient centricity most frequently evaluated were patient satisfaction, and patient-centered care, and most studies used validated tools. Other domains of PCC - patients rights, quality of life, multidisciplinary care, and patient-provider communications - were seldom measured.

CONCLUSION

In LMICs - which carry the heaviest burden of cancer- there are critical gaps in the evaluation of patient centered cancer care, with most studies focusing on a few measures of patient centricity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review of this type. We hope to use these results to develop a set of indicators to evaluate the quality of patient-centered cancer care appropriate to each countrys health development level.
Piloting a Model for Cervical Cancer Screening Through Community Outreach and Government Capacity Building in India
Authors: Foley Shaylen , Anand Meenu , Gupta Mridu , Saxena Swati , Ramakrishnan Mathangi , Sharma Tolsy
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

India accounts for nearly a third of global cervical cancer deaths. These cancers can be prevented or detected early through screening. Despite the existence of a national guideline and program, cervical cancer screening availability at primary health centers (PHCs) in India is low, and programs target only symptomatic women. In communities there is lack of awareness, inaccessibility, and stigma.

METHODS

Cancer Awareness, Prevention, and Early Detection Trust (CAPED) is a community outreach organization that promotes cancer prevention and early detection in India. With support from American Cancer Society (ACS), CAPED implemented a cervical cancer awareness & screening project pilot in collaboration with the Gurugram Health Department, Haryana State from February to December 2022. The pilot used a collaborative model to engage leadership at all levels in the government health system–district, PHCs, community health workers (CHWs), and community members to increase cervical cancer screening uptake. The pilot involved six core areas of work (1) advocacy and coordination with the district-level leadership for the inclusion of asymptomatic women in government-led screening camps, (2) certification of PHC nurses to deliver cervical screening services, (3) training CHW on cervical cancer prevention and early detection, (4) support for CHW door-to-door mobilization in targeted villages, (5) logistic support at screening camps, and (6) navigation for women with positive screens.

RESULTS

CAPED India and Gurugram district health department successfully collaborated to train 213 CHWs and 61 PHC staff nurses covering 73 villages, who mobilized 5,653 women to get cervical cancer screening. Women who tested positive were navigated to further testing and/or treatment. This pilot project laid the foundation for the development of an Implementation Guide for Community Organisations to Strengthen Policy and Practice for Cervical Cancer Prevention. In 2024, this implementation guide will be used to replicate and validate the pilot project strategies and resources across two new geographies through partnership with local cancer organizations as implementing organizations.

CONCLUSION

Cervical cancer is preventable. This rapid presentation or poster will provide an overview of the 2022 pilot project, as well as current progress and lessons learned during the roll out and use of the implementation guide.