bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of enhancing vascular access care quality through monitoring and training: A multicentre observational study
Authors: Casanova-Vivas Sonia , García-Molina Pablo , López-Guardiola Pablo , Gil-Carbonell María José , Hevilla-Cucarella Enrique Bernardo , Solaz-Martínez Vicenta , Valdelvira-Gimeno Beatriz , Fernández-Martínez Alicia , Visconti-Gijón José Vicente , Ballestar-Tarín M Luisa
Published: November 2024

Aim:

This study evaluates the impact of monitoring a primary quality indicator and the effect of training on improving the care and maintenance of vascular access devices.

Design:

A prospective, quasi-experimental, multicentre study with 10 periodical cross-sections from 2017 and 2020.

Participants:

Adult patients hospitalised over 24 h, with or without vascular access device, excluding those in emergency, psychiatry, outpatients or minor surgery units.

Methods:

The study included 10 cross-sections between 2017 and 2020 in all participating hospitals, using the INCATIV® (Quality Indicators in Intravenous Therapy and Vascular Access) questionnaire. Training sessions for nursing staff were conducted between cross-sections, involving face-to-face sessions in open classrooms and clinical sessions in the units, based on the study Care bundle.

Results:

53,991 vascular accesses were analysed, with an average INCATIV Index score of 8.95 (SD: 1.32), showing improvement from 8.09 in the first cross-section to 9.21 in the last. Significant variability was observed between hospitals, with secondary hospitals scoring lower on the INCATIV® Index. Training interventions 1 and 2 showed significant improvement across all hospital categories, whereas intervention 5 did not show significant effects. Compliance with main recommendations was studied, with a notable decrease in phlebitis rates from 4.45% in the first cross-section to 1.23% in the tenth.

Conclusion:

The study developed a single indicator to assess and quantify vascular access care quality. It demonstrated that implementing a care bundle through serial training interventions and continuous assessment by nursing staff, supported by process indicators and data availability on the study platform, significantly reduces complications and enhances the quality and safety of vascular access care.
The trans-radial approach for endovascular intervention of the problem arterio-venous fistula: A single-centre case series and systematic review
Authors: Wijetunga Asanka Rohan , Wang Yunyi , Chan Conan Wai Hang , Elhindi James , Colbourne James
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the gold standard access modality for haemodialysis, but due to patient and technical factors, it is prone to stenosis and thrombosis. The trans-radial approach offers multiple unique benefits, but its safety, efficiency and efficacy have not been rigorously studied in the context of the AVF. This study provides a case series of trans-radial AVF procedures, and a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing literature to solidify the role of the trans-radial approach in endovascular AVF surgery.

Methods:

Surgical records were interrogated to identify all trans-radial AVF interventions between 2019 and 2021. The primary endpoints were procedure time and complication rates. The secondary endpoints were primary assisted patency and increase in pre- and post-operative brachial artery blood flow. The systematic review was performed by searching MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL from 2000 to 2023.

Results:

The case series identified 76 consecutive procedures performed on 49 patients. Mean procedure time was 64 min, and only one complication, a puncture site haematoma, was identified. Mean postoperative AVF flow increase was 342 mL/min ( p < 0.001). Primary-assisted patency at 6 and 12 months was 91% and 82% respectively. The systematic review included 16 studies totalling 1163 procedures with a mean MINORS score of 69%. Mean procedure time was 44 min. Complications were rare: procedural failure (1.2%), haematoma (0.90%), radial artery occlusion (0.74%) and pseudoaneurysm (0.12%). Post-procedural flow increased by an average of 274 mL/min. Pooled primary-assisted patency rates at 6 and 12 months were 88% and 77% respectively.

Conclusion:

The trans-radial approach allows for expedient, safe and durable AVF endovascular surgery, however this technique would benefit from prospective evaluation.
Regulatory Element Analysis and Comparative Genomics Study of Heavy Metal-Resistant Genes in the Complete Genome of Cupriavidus gilardii CR3
Authors: Dibbisa Duguma , Daba Tadesse , Mohammed Seid
Published: November 2024

Environmental pollution has become a worldwide concern that requires rigorous efforts from all sectors of society to monitor, control, and remediate it. In environmental pollution control, Cupriavidus gilardii CR3 has become a model organism to study resistance to heavy metals as a means of bacterial bioremediation. This research aimed to single out regulatory element analysis and conduct a comparative genome study of the heavy metal resistance genes in the complete genome of C gilardii CR3 using bioinformatics and omics tools. Comparative genome analysis, promoter prediction, common motif identification, transcriptional start site identification, gene annotation, and transcription factor identification search are the major steps to understanding gene expression and regulation. MEME Suit, TOMTOM, Prokka, Rapid Annotation utilizing Subsystem Technology (RAST), Orthologous Average Nucleotide Identity Software Tool (OAT), and EziBio databases or programs were the major tools used in this study. Fourteen transcriptional factors were identified and predicted from the most credible and lowest candidate motifs with an e-value of 3.0e-009, which was statistically the utmost remarkable candidate motif. A detailed evaluation was further performed, and 14 transcriptional factors were identified as in activation, repression, and dual functions. The data revealed that most transcriptional factors identified were used for activation rather than repression. The C gilardii CR3 genome contains many genes responsible for resisting heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium, zinc, copper, and arsenate. As a result, regulatory elements will lay a solid basis for understanding genes responsible for heavy metal bioremediation. It was concluded that further studies with wet lab support could be conducted for confirmation. Moreover, other advanced bioinformatics and omics technologies are needed to strengthen the results.
Breast Cancer Knowledge and Attitude Toward Breast Cancer Screening Practice Among Catholic Nuns in Lake Zone—Tanzania
Authors: Marandu Gotfrida , Malale Kija , Laisser Rose , Mwanga Joseph , Rambau Peter
Published: November 2024

Background:

Breast cancer poses a significant public health challenge in Tanzania. Limited knowledge about breast cancer and negative attitudes toward screening practices contributes to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes. Catholic nuns, who are often nulliparous, represent a population with an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Despite this risk, they remain an understudied group regarding breast cancer awareness and screening practices.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess breast cancer knowledge and attitudes toward screening practices among Catholic nuns residing in Tanzania’s Lake Zone.

Study design:

The study was a cross-sectional design.

Methods:

A total of 385 Catholic nuns participated in the study. To ensure a representative sample, nuns were chosen through simple random sampling, giving each Catholic nun an equal probability of being selected. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and then analyzed using STATA version 18.0. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to draw conclusions. In inferential statistics, logistic regression was used to test for associations between categorical variables. The test statistics were considered significant when the P-value was less than .05 at a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results:

This study enrolled 385 catholic nuns. 57.1% (95% CI, 52.0%-62.1%) of all surveyed catholic nuns had inadequate knowledge of breast cancer. Misconceptions also emerged as significant risk factors for inadequate knowledge. Thus, lack of awareness of breast cancer risk factors increased the odds by 5.57 times (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 5.57; 95% CI: 2.84-10.92; P < .001). In addition, believing cancer was not inheritable (AOR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.14-6.15; P = .024), misperceiving oneself as being in a low-risk group (AOR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.03-2.66; P = .039), and underestimating the vulnerable age group (believing it is not above 40 years) (AOR: 2.60; 95% CI: 1.49-4.51; P = .001) were all significantly associated with higher odds of inadequate knowledge. Regarding the attitude toward breast cancer screening practices, 62.3% (95% CI, 57.3%-67.2%) of the catholic nuns had negative attitudes.

Conclusion:

These findings highlight the need for breast health intervention educational programs to improve breast cancer awareness among Catholic nuns. Such programs should address risk factors, symptoms, screening methods, and treatment options, dispelling misconceptions. By empowering nuns with knowledge, they can make informed decisions about their health and take charge of their well-being.
First-Line Camrelizumab Plus Rivoceranib in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A China-Based Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Xiang Guiyuan , Huang Yueyue , Zhang Ni , Du Xinyu , Wu Yuanlin , Gan Lanlan , Li Yanping , Jiang Tingting , Liu Yao
Published: November 2024

Background:

Hepatocellular carcinoma poses a significant public health burden in China, necessitating the economic evaluation of new therapeutic strategies for policy-makers and clinicians. The international, randomized phase 3 trial CARES-310 revealed that camrelizumab plus rivoceranib provided a substantial clinical benefit in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, but the economic outcome remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of camrelizumab plus rivoceranib versus sorafenib as first-line treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (CARES-310) from the perspective of the Chinese health care system.

Methods:

A partitioned survival model was developed to estimate the lifetime cost and clinical outcomes of camrelizumab plus rivoceranib versus sorafenib in first-line treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Survival data from the CARES-310 trial were used to create a hypothetical cohort of 543 patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma for modeling disease progression. The life-year, quality-adjusted life-year (QALY), incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was used to measure the model’s outcome, with the willingness-to-pay threshold set at 3 times China’s gross domestic product (GDP) per capita (US$36 780). Univariate, multivariable probabilistic sensitivity analyses, and subgroup analysis were performed to assess parameter uncertainty, complemented by a scenario analysis using health utilities reported in literature.

Results:

The camrelizumab group yielded an additional 0.239 QALYs at an added cost of US$8340 compared with sorafenib, resulting in an ICER of US$34 897/QALY. Univariate sensitivity analysis indicated that the model results were most sensitive to the utility of progression-free survival in the camrelizumab group, sorafenib cost, and camrelizumab cost. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis revealed a 56% probability of cost-effectiveness of camrelizumab plus rivoceranib among all patients. The results of the subgroup analysis demonstrated camrelizumab plus rivoceranib was the most cost-effective in the subgroup with albumin-bilirubin grade 2.

Conclusions:

At a willingness-to-pay threshold of US$36 780/QALY, camrelizumab plus rivoceranib is likely to be a cost-effective option compared with sorafenib as first-line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma in China.
Prediction of frictional behaviour through regression equations: A statistical modelling approach validated with machine learning
Authors: Kumar Vineet , Gautam Gaurav , Singh Manvandra Kumar , Ji Gopal , Katiyar Jitendra Kumar , Mohan Sunil , Mohan Anita
Published: November 2024

Friction in machinery and transportation has played a significant energy challenge, with the reducing friction and wear can improve the performance of engines, motors and vehicles.Therefore, this study involves fabrication, characterization, mechanical and tribological analysis of metal matrix composites (MMCs). Further, this study has developed of a statistical model to predict the frictional behaviour of Zinc-Aluminium in-situ composites reinforced with Zirconium diboride (ZrB2) particles. The alloy and composite were fabricated using liquid metallurgy, resulting in altered physical and morphological properties. Reinforcement with ZrB2 led to significant improvements in mechanical and tribological properties, resulting in a notably low coefficient of friction (COF) with lubrication, even under higher loads, signifying reduced energy losses. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) using Design Expert 13 software was used to analyze the relation between input parameters which included applied normal load, sliding distance, and ZrB2 percentage and output parameter (COF). A quadratic model was recommended as the best fit for the present material system and a regression equation was developed which predicts the frictional behaviour with more than 94% accuracy at given input variables. Moreover, ANOVA highlighted load as the primary influencer on COF characteristics. An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) in PYTHON validated RSM-recommended optimized COF parameters, enabling reliable COF predictions. A comparison of experimental and statistical outcomes from RSM and ANN confirms the model's strength in anticipating the tribological traits of alloys and composites.
The Javanese Rasa: Sense, psychology, and spirituality
Authors: Sugiarto Ryan , Suparno Koentjoro
Published: November 2024

Rasa for Javanese people is an important part of daily life. Rasa is the Javanese way of communicating with themselves and with their society. With Rasa, Javanese people develop moral ethics. The theoretical construction method is used in this paper with the basis of old literature and the results of the study of today’s social scientists to build an ideal picture of Rasa’s theory. The main argument of this paper is that there is another model besides ratio used by the Javanese for knowledge, namely Rasa. Rasa for the Javanese is both a tool and a goal. As a tool, Rasa serves to build moral and intellectual integrity, while as a goal Rasa is a meeting between the self and the divine. Rasa as a tool is a psychological study space to build a healthy person using introspection (self-examination) personally and in social relations. As a goal, Rasa is a spiritual space. The formulation of the concept of Rasa psychology in this manuscript is developed from the perspective of Javanese culture, specifically on the thoughts of Suryomentaram. Furthermore, this manuscript opens up great possibilities in the scientific processes of Rasa-based knowledge with relevant research in various other cultures.
Psychosocial screening, in-patient care, and disposition planning: Clinicians’ perspectives
Authors: Chong Alyssa , Virk Punit , Doan Quynh
Published: November 2024

Objective

Our objective was to explore clinicians’ views on the MyHEARTSMAP screening report; whether this report has impacted their patient care, and if so, how. MyHEARTSMAP is a psychosocial self-screening tool for youth to identify mental health concerns.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study as a sub-study of the MyHEARTSMAP In-Patient randomized control trial. Eligible clinicians (nurses and physicians who have cared for patients in one of our partnered specialties and have seen a MyHEARTSMAP report in their patients’ charts) provided their perceptions of the screening report through a survey.

Results

Sixty-five clinicians were enrolled; 60 (92.3%; 95% CI 85.8–98.8%) believe psychosocial screening is beneficial, with many finding it helpful for building rapport with patients/families and providing additional mental health information. Thirty-seven clinicians (56.9%; 95% CI 44.9–69%) had previously read or used the MyHEARTSMAP report, and 31 (83.8%; 95% CI 71.9–95.7%) of these clinicians found the report helpful. Clinicians specifically found the report helpful for communicating with the patient, and guiding patient-centered care.

Conclusion

Clinicians’ perceptions towards the MyHEARTSMAP report were positive amongst those who had previously encountered it. While clinicians believe psychosocial screening is beneficial, exploring options for better accessibility to the screening results is necessary to increase utilization.
Improving processing fluency to encourage family health information seeking: The mediating role of communication efficacy
Authors: Wade Rachel , Ryu Ji Youn , Shulman Hillary , Hovick Shelly
Published: November 2024

Drawing from the metacognitive literature, this experimental study examines how the relative ease of retrieving information (i.e. processing fluency) impacts individuals’ efficacy about engaging in family health discussions and interpersonal information seeking intention across two health topics: family organ donation status and family health history. Participants ( N = 609) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions. Those in the easy retrieval task condition (versus a difficult or no task control), who were asked to recall information regarding two (versus six or zero) family members, reported greater processing fluency. Moreover, those who reported greater fluency also reported higher communication efficacy, and a greater intention to seek out family health information. Practically, this study highlights how metacognitive strategies may be used in healthcare settings to motivate patient information seeking. For example, it may be advantageous to start by collecting information for relatively few diseases/family members and slowly build a family history over time.
The influence of stress, social support and feminine values on the health behaviour of women in Hong Kong
Authors: Rochelle Tina L , Li Ami SM
Published: November 2024

The relationship between feminine values, cultural values, stress, social support and health behaviour among women in Hong Kong was examined in a sample of 306 women aged 18–61 years ( M = 34.77, SD = 10.43). Older age and weaker identification with Chinese cultural values were predictive of engagement with risky health behaviour, older age was also associated with lower perceived levels of stress. Further post-hoc analysis explored the mediating effect of Chinese values and stress on the relationship between feminine values and health behaviour, Chinese values and stress fully mediated the relationship between feminine values and engagement with risky health behaviour. Experiencing high levels of stress did not necessarily lead to engagement in health compromising behaviour. Incorporating cultural values into health promotion campaigns may be one approach to better engagement in health promotion behaviour.
(Re)Tracing pre-pandemic connections: Immaterial materialities of parcel-sending and visits home in Moldovan transnational families
Authors: Caracentev Sanda
Published: November 2024

This article discusses the elusive materiality of staying connected across borders. Objects brought in suitcases during visits home, images of objects sent via private parcel vans, and objects talked about but never sent all embody this connection. Using the concepts of trace and propinquity to presence the departed migrant and the objects used in family practices, I discuss relational proximity in degrees of nearness, considering seemingly immaterial traces of people and objects in material terms. Drawing on ethnographic examples of Moldovan private parcel van service users, I show how progressively immaterial transnational connections forged before the COVID-19 pandemic continued to create relations even in the absence of visits home during lockdowns.
Beyond ‘police discretion’: The need for a new conceptual vocabulary
Authors: Turner Elizabeth Ruth , Rowe Mike
Published: November 2024

What are we talking about when we talk about police discretion? The concept is ubiquitous yet ambiguous and amorphous. In analytical terms it is redundant, but its continued use remains (for some) convenient and politically expedient. References to police discretion, connote as much as they denote, and in so doing they reproduce politico-legal structures that legitimise, enable, and may even embolden, discriminatory policing practices. We conclude, therefore, that policing scholars ought to move beyond discretion, developing a new conceptual vocabulary for making sense of police power.
Neurofilament light and cognition in community-dwelling non-Hispanic Blacks
Authors: Abdullah Lubnaa , Zhang Fan , Hall James , O’Bryant Sid
Published: November 2024

Background

No large-scale characterizations of neurofilament light chain (NfL) and cognitive outcomes have been conducted in community-dwelling non-Hispanic Blacks.

Objective

This study aims to enhance the application of blood biomarkers, in particular NfL, to ethno-racially diverse communities. We assess the association of NfL with cognitive outcomes, hypothesizing that NfL can identify cognitive changes regardless of diagnostic category.

Methods

Baseline data were analyzed among n = 283 non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB) from the multi-ethnic Health and Aging Brain Study- Health Disparities (HABS-HD). Plasma NfL was measured on the Simoa platform. Linear regression models were conducted, covarying for age, gender, and education.

Results

The majority of study participants (72%) were cognitively unimpaired (CU), with 21% having mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 6.7% with Alzheimer's disease (AD). In adjusted models among the entire sample, significant associations existed between NfL and Trails A ( p < 0.0001), Trails B ( p < 0.0001), phonemic (FAS) and semantic (Animals) fluency ( p = 0.03), and Symbol Digit Substitution ( p < 0.001). When separated by diagnostic classification, significant associations were removed for functions involving executive functions for all diagnostic groups. Higher levels of NfL were positively associated with cognitive diagnosis, older age, and less education.

Conclusions

Plasma NfL levels are significantly associated with measures of executive functioning, which elucidate NfL as a non-specific marker of neurodegeneration associated with efficiency of brain functions involving attention, processing, and generativity. NfL may be a sensitive measure for the detection of alterations in cognitive processing before the onset of phenotypic functional changes of neurodegeneration.
Regional differences in glucose metabolic decline and tau deposition in the Alzheimer's continuum brain
Authors: Ishii Kazunari , Yamada Takahiro , Hanaoka Kohei , Kaida Hayato , Kojita Yasuyuki , Kono Atsushi , Hanada Kazushi , Saigoh Kazumasa , Sakuta Shizuka , Hashimoto Mamoru , Kato Takashi , Nakamura Akinori ,   for BATON Study Group
Published: November 2024

Background:

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-β and tau proteins, leading to neurofibrillary tangles. A biomarker-based diagnostic method called the ATN system categorizes AD pathology into amyloid-β (A), tau (T), and neurodegeneration (N). The relationship between regional tau deposition and reduced glucose metabolism in the preclinical AD stage is not well understood.

Objective:

We presented voxel-by-voxel metabolic/tau deposition ratio (MTR) images to investigate the effects of tau deposition on metabolism in AD brains on a stage-by-stage basis.

Methods:

We selected 174 subjects who underwent 3D-MRI, FDG-PET, amyloid PET, and tau PET scans. MTR images were created by normalizing FDG-PET toMK6240 PET images. Voxel-wise comparisons among 63 cognitively normal amyloid-negative (CNA) subjects, 49 subjects with AD dementia (ADD), 23 subjects with mild cognitive impairment due to AD (MCA), and 39 preclinical AD (PRC) subjects were conducted.

Results:

There was reduced glucose metabolism in ADD and MCA groups compared to CNA, predominantly in parietotemporal areas. Tau deposition was observed in wider areas in ADD and restricted to the medial temporal lobes in MCA. MTR exhibited significant reductions in broader regions in ADD and MCA, indicating simultaneous glucose metabolism decrease and tau deposition. At the MCA and PRC stages, glucose metabolism impairment and tau deposition were shown in separate regions by FDG PET and tau PET, respectively, while MTR images showed impairment in both regions.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that MTR imaging provides insights into AD pathophysiology by simultaneously assessing glucose metabolism and tau deposition. In the early stage of the AD continuum (MCA and PRC), metabolic decline and tau deposition occur independently in different brain regions.
Structural white matter connectivity differences independent of gray matter loss in mild cognitive impairment with neuropsychiatric symptoms: Early indicators of Alzheimer's disease using network-based statistics
Authors: Pajavand Amir Mohammad , Grothe Michel J , De Schotten Michel Thiebaut , Giorgi Filippo Sean , Vergallo Andrea , Hampel Harald ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: November 2024

Background

Depression and circadian rhythm disruptions are non-cognitive neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) that can appear at any stage of the Alzheimer's disease (AD) continuum. Evidence suggests that NPS are linked to AD pathophysiology and hippocampal dysfunction.

Objective

To examine structural white matter (WM) connectivity and its association with gray matter (GM) atrophy and to identify specific AD-related neural networks linked to NPS in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

Ninety-six older adults participants were divided into three groups based on the Global Depression Scale, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, Clinical Dementia Rating, and Mini-Mental Status Examination. Twelve individuals with MCI and NPS (MCI+) and 49 without NPS (MCI-) were classified, along with 35 age and gender-matched healthy individuals. Voxel-based morphometry and tract-based spatial statistics were employed to identify structural and microstructural alterations. Network-based statistics analyzed structural WM connectivity differences between MCI groups and healthy controls.

Results

Significant structural WM connectivity and GM loss were exclusively observed in MCI+ individuals compared to controls. The hippocampus, amygdala, and sensory cortex showed GM atrophy (p < 0.05), while the thalamus, pallidum, putamen, caudate, hippocampus, and sensory and frontal cortices exhibited structural WM connectivity loss (p < 0.01). These data indicate early limbic system involvement even without GM atrophy.

Conclusions

Structural WM connectivity loss within the Papez circuit may precede and potentially predict GM atrophy in the temporal lobe of individuals with MCI+. These findings highlight the importance of investigating structural WM alterations in the prodromal phase of AD, which may inform diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in early AD.
Effect of ceftriaxone on the glutamate-glutamine cycle and seizure susceptibility of Tg2576 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Dejakaisaya Hattapark , Lin Runxuan , Harutyunyan Anna , Chan Jianxiong , Kwan Patrick , Jones Nigel C
Published: November 2024

Background

Individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) have a heightened risk of epilepsy. However, the underlying mechanisms are not well-understood.

Objective

We aimed to elucidate the role of the glutamate-glutamine cycle in this mechanism and test the effect of ceftriaxone, a glutamate transporter-1 (GLT-1) enhancer, on seizure susceptibility in the Tg2576 mouse model of AD.

Methods

First, we assessed expression levels of key proteins in the glutamate-glutamine cycle in Tg2576 ( n = 7) and wild-type littermates ( n = 7), and subsequently in the kindling model of epilepsy ( n = 6) and sham ( n = 6). Then, kindling susceptibility was assessed in three groups: 200 mg/kg ceftriaxone-treated Tg2576 (Tg-Ceft, n = 9); saline-treated Tg2576 (Tg-Sal, n = 9); and saline-treated wild-type (WT-Sal, n = 15). Mice were treated for seven days before kindling, and seizure susceptibility compared between groups.

Results

Protein levels of GLT-1 ( p = 0.0093) and glutamine synthetase ( p = 0.0016) were reduced in cortex of Tg2576 mice, compared to WT. Kindling increased GLT-1 (cortex: p < 0.0001, hippocampus: p = 0.0075), and glutaminase (cortex: p = 0.0044) protein levels, compared to sham. Both Tg-Ceft and WT-Sal displayed Class IV seizures in response to the first stimulation ( p > 0.99), while Tg-Sal displayed Class V seizure ( p = 0.0212 versus WT-Sal). Seizure susceptibility of Tg-Ceft was not different from Tg-Sal ( p > 0.05), and kindling rates did not differ between groups.

Conclusions

Disruptions to key components of the glutamate-glutamine cycle are observed in models of AD and epilepsy. However, increasing GLT-1 through ceftriaxone treatment did not influence seizure susceptibility in Tg2576 mice, suggesting this is not an effective strategy to lower seizure susceptibility in AD, or a higher dosage is needed.
Genetic variants for Alzheimer's disease and comorbid conditions
Authors: Pan Minmin , Lai Dongbing , Unverzagt Frederick , Apostolova Liana , Hendrie Hugh C , Saykin Andrew , Foroud Tatiana , Gao Sujuan
Published: November 2024

Background

Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) frequently co-occur with comorbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in elderly populations.

Objective

Utilize a life-course approach to identify genetic variants that are associated with the co-occurrence of ADRD and another comorbid condition.

Methods

Research data from African American participants of the Indianapolis-Ibadan Dementia Project (IIDP) linked with electronic medical record (EMR) data and genome-wide association study (GWAS) data were utilized. The age of onset for ADRD was obtained from longitudinal follow-up of the IIDP study. Age of onset for comorbid conditions was obtained from EMR. The analysis included 1177 African Americans, among whom 174 were diagnosed with ADRD. A semi-parametric marginal bivariate survival model was used to examine the influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on dual time-to-event outcomes while adjusting for sex, years of education, and the first principal component of GWAS data.

Results

Targeted analysis of 20 SNPs that were reported to be associated with ADRD revealed that six were significantly associated with dual-disease outcomes, specifically congestive heart failure and cancer. In addition, eight novel SNPs were identified for associations with both ADRD and a comorbid condition.

Conclusions

Using a bivariate survival model approach, we identified genetic variants associated not only with ADRD, but also with comorbid conditions. Our utilization of dual-disease models represents a novel analytic strategy for uncovering shared genetic variants for multiple disease phenotypes.
There are dementia patients in Gaza too
Authors: Irfan Bilal , Abu Shammala Abdallah , Alshaer Nour , Nasser Elias , Wajahath Muaaz , Hamawy Adam , Tahir Mohammed , Khawaja Haseeb , Khan Osaama , Fikry Karim , Kaleem Arshad , Nasser Mosab , Saleh Khaled J
Published: November 2024

This editorial highlights the devastating impact of the ongoing Israeli military assault in Gaza on dementia patients, whose fragile care systems have collapsed, leaving them vulnerable and without essential medical support. Through harrowing stories of displacement, medication shortages, and tragic deaths, the piece underscores the profound moral failure in protecting Gaza's most vulnerable, calling for urgent global action to address the humanitarian crisis and ensure dignity and healthcare for all affected individuals.
Primary cortical cell tri-culture to study effects of amyloid-β on microglia function and neuroinflammatory response
Authors: Kim Hyehyun , Le Bryan , Goshi Noah , Zhu Kan , Grodzki Ana Cristina , Lein Pamela J , Zhao Min , Seker Erkin
Published: November 2024

Background

Microglia play a critical role in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, where alterations in microglial function may result in pathogenic amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation, chronic neuroinflammation, and deleterious effects on neuronal function. However, studying these complex factors in vivo, where numerous confounding processes exist, is challenging, and until recently, in vitro models have not allowed sustained culture of critical cell types in the same culture.

Objective

We employed a rat primary tri-culture (neurons, astrocytes, and microglia) model and compared it to co-culture (neurons and astrocytes) and mono-culture (microglia) to study microglial function (i.e., motility and Aβ clearance) and proteomic response to exogenous Aβ.

Methods

The cultures were exposed to fluorescently-labeled Aβ (FITC-Aβ) particles for varying durations. Epifluorescence microscopy images were analyzed to quantify the number of FITC-Aβ particles and assess cytomorphological features. Cytokine profiles from conditioned media were obtained. Live-cell imaging was employed to extract microglia motility parameters.

Results

FITC-Aβ particles were more effectively cleared in the tri-culture compared to the co-culture. This was attributed to microglia engulfing FITC-Aβ particles, as confirmed via epifluorescence and confocal microscopy. FITC-Aβ treatment significantly increased microglia size, but had no significant effect on neuronal surface coverage or astrocyte size. Upon FITC-Aβ treatment, there was a significant increase in proinflammatory cytokines in tri-culture, but not in co-culture. Aβ treatment altered microglia motility evident as a swarming-like motion.

Conclusions

The results suggest that neuron-astrocyte-microglia interactions influence microglia function and highlight the utility of the tri-culture model for studies of neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and cell-cell communication.
Mild behavioral impairment in people with mild cognitive impairment: Are the two conditions related?
Authors: Scheuermann Julia-Sophia , Graessel Elmar , Kratzer André , Scheerbaum Petra
Published: November 2024

Background

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild behavioral impairment (MBI) are both considered potential prodromal stages of dementia, especially Alzheimer's disease. Previous literature has lacked specific information about MBI in individuals with MCI and associations of several aspects of both, MBI and MCI.

Objective

Our aim was to investigate whether associations exist between aspects of MBI and aspects of cognitive performance in certain dimensions of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).

Methods

We used baseline data from the double-blind randomized controlled intervention MCI-CCT-study. Current cognitive performance of individuals with MCI was measured with the MoCA. MBI was assessed with the MBI Shortscale (MBI short), which was administered through a self-report interview. Associations were assessed with Pearson correlations. Sensitivity analyses were conducted for gender and cognition. Group differences were examined with independent samples t-tests or Welch test. Significant correlations were considered in binary logistic regressions under control of covariates.

Results

There was no significant correlation between the current MoCA and MBI short scores in the total sample or in the gender-related analysis. Using dichotomized cognitive performance, significant correlations between MCI and MBI were revealed for individuals with lower MoCA scores. On the task level, several significant associations were identified between MoCA dimensions and MBI dimensions in the total sample and in the sensitivity analyses, also under control of covariates.

Conclusions

Our findings support the hypothesis that with increasing cognitive decline, the association between MCI and MBI becomes stronger. Furthermore, a certain cut-off on the MoCA must be reached to identify a correlation.
Investigating the efficacy of ergothioneine to delay cognitive decline in mild cognitively impaired subjects: A pilot study
Authors: Yau Yu Fung , Cheah Irwin K , Mahendran Rathi , Tang Richard MY , Chua Ru Yuan , Goh Rachel ES , Feng Lei , Li Jialiang , Kua Ee Heok , Chen Christopher , Halliwell Barry
Published: November 2024

Background

Dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease, is a major healthcare challenge in ageing societies.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a dietary compound, ergothioneine, in delaying cognitive decline in older individuals.

Methods

Nineteen subjects aged 60 or above with mild cognitive impairment were recruited for this double-blinded, randomized, and placebo-controlled study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03641404, registration date: 19/08/2018). Subjects received either ergothioneine (25 mg per capsule) or a placebo, taken 3 times a week for one year. The whole blood profile, markers of renal and liver functions, neurocognitive performance, plasma levels of ergothioneine and its metabolites, and plasma biomarkers related to neurodegeneration were measured across the study.

Results

Ergothioneine intake did not alter clinical safety markers (blood counts, kidney and liver function) throughout the study, further validating its safety for human consumption. Subjects receiving ergothioneine demonstrated improved performance in assessment of learning ability and stabilized plasma levels of neurofilament light chain, compared with the placebo group, which saw no improvement in cognitive assessments and a significant increase in neurofilament light chain levels.

Conclusions

Prolonged intake of ergothioneine showed no toxicity in elderly people. Enhanced Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test performance and stabilized neurofilament light chain levels suggest improvements in memory and learning abilities and a deceleration of neuronal damage, respectively. Our results add to existing data that ergothioneine is safe for extended consumption and may hold the potential to delay cognitive decline in elderly adults.
Benefits of nostalgic landmarks for people living with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Oliver Alice , Wildschut Tim , Redhead Edward S , Parker Matthew O , Sharif Saif , Wood Antony P , Sedikides Constantine , Cheston Richard
Published: November 2024

Background

Emerging literature shows that nostalgia induced by autobiographical reflection and music confers psychological benefits to people living with dementia.

Objective

Our objective was to test the potential benefits of nostalgic landmarks for people living with Alzheimer's disease.

Methods

We displayed the landmarks as wall-mounted pictures within a virtual environment. In Experiment 1, we developed the nostalgia manipulation by using pictures associated with the decade during which participants lived most of their childhood. To examine the effectiveness, tolerability, and safety of this pictorial nostalgia induction, we conducted the experiment with 172 healthy adults. In Experiment 2, we recruited 20 participants living with Alzheimer's disease who experienced mild to moderate cognitive impairments. We further personalized the pictorial nostalgia induction by interviewing them about fond memories from their past and generating images corresponding to these events. We hypothesized that navigating a virtual environment with wall-mounted nostalgic (compared to control) pictures would confer psychological benefits.

Results

The nostalgic (versus control) pictures evoked higher levels of momentary nostalgia; the manipulation was successful (Experiments 1 and 2). Compared to control pictures, nostalgic pictures significantly increased self-reported positive (but not negative) affect, self-esteem, self-continuity, social connectedness, and meaning in life (Experiments 1 and 2). Participants in the nostalgia condition (compared to controls) evinced better picture recognition, but not improved spatial memory (Experiment 2).

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that nostalgic landmarks confer psychological benefits and enhance picture recognition among people living with Alzheimer's disease. This work has real-world applications for dementia-friendly design and therapy-related practices.
Reactions of clinical neuropsychologists to the Alzheimer's Association workgroup's draft diagnostic and staging criteria for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Kiselica Andrew M , Atkins Kelly J , Han S Duke , Diaz-Orueta Unai , Gogniat Marissa A , Blanco-Campal Alberto , Hermann Greta ,   Contributing Neuropsychologists, Duff Kevin
Published: November 2024

Background

An Alzheimer's Association (AA) workgroup published criteria for the diagnosis and staging of Alzheimer's disease (AD). To date, there have not been empirical investigations of professionals’ opinions regarding the AA criteria for AD.

Objective

Our goal was to survey clinical neuropsychologists with expertise in dementia about these criteria.

Methods

Participants were recruited from a professional interest group of neuropsychologists focused on dementia. They rated their agreement with 15 statements about the AA draft criteria for AD prior to publication of the final version. The 15 statements were rated on a 4-point Likert scale ranging from 1 = Strongly Disagree to 4 = Strongly Agree.

Results

Sixty-one respondents provided analyzable data. When all 15 statements were coded such that higher values suggested more concern about the recommendations, the mean rating was 3.12 ( SD = 0.36), suggesting that overall respondents had modest concerns about the recommendations. The statements that yielded the most concern focused on barriers to the implementation of the recommendations, including a lack of healthcare resources and costs of biomarker testing. Conversely, participants were equivocal about the criteria being a positive step forward and had mixed opinions about the applicability of these criteria to diverse groups.

Conclusions

Opinions of neuropsychologists suggest the need for important revisions or additions to the AA criteria for AD, including a clearer statement of purpose and more guidance on practical implementation.
Association of the ascending aortic length with acute type A aortic dissection: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Korpela Tarmo , Salomaa Elina , Kauhanen Petteri , Selander Tuomas , Hedman Marja , Husso Annastiina
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims:

To investigate whether, alongside aortic dilatation, ascending aortic (AA) elongation is associated with the increased risk for aortic dissection.

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients treated for Stanford type A aortic dissection (n = 102) in Kuopio University Hospital between 2009 and 2022, patients with AA dilatation (maximal diameter > 40 mm) (n = 134), and healthy controls (n = 191). AA length and dimensions were measured from aortic computed tomography angiography (CTA) images. AA length was defined as the distance between the aortic annulus and the origin of the brachiocephalic trunk.

Results:

After adjusting the AA length to the patients’ age, height, body surface area (BSA), sex, and maximal diameter, the dissected aortas were 14 mm longer than in the healthy controls and 5 mm longer than in the dilated non-dissected aortas (p < 0.001). The dilated non-dissected aortas were 8 mm longer than in the healthy controls (p < 0.001). In the dissection cohort, 25/102 (25%) patients had maximal AA diameter < 55 mm and 16/102 (16%) patients had maximal AA diameter ⩾ 55 mm together with AA length > 110 mm. By combining 110 mm AA length and < 55 mm diameter, 58% of the dissection patients would have been identified instead of using solely AA diameter ⩾ 55 mm as a cut-off criterion, based on which only 33% patients met the indication for elective surgery.

Conclusion:

AA length seemed to have an association with acute type A dissection, and therefore, it could be an additional tool in identifying patients who may benefit from preventive aortic surgery. [Formula: see text]
Investigation and detection: Back to the future
Authors: Innes Martin
Published: November 2024

This article reflects upon the key insights and evidence from policing research with regards to the organisation and conduct of police crime investigations and detective work. In particular, it attends to how a number of innovative technologies have had a shaping effect on this aspect of the police role. A central thread of the argument developed is how shifts in the context for policing, associated with the information environment has been inducing socio-technical changes to how crimes are investigated and resolved. Projecting forward from such developments, the article concludes by speculating on the ways the increasing availability of 'opensource intelligence' might reconfigure the social organisation of police crime investigations.
Ara Wairua: Developing and utilising a Māori cultural analysis tool for research
Authors: Fox Levi Arana
Published: November 2024

This paper discusses the development and utility of the Ara Wairua data analysis tool. The term Ara Wairua means ‘spiritual pathway’ in the Māori language. Ara Wairua symbolises the existential journey researchers take when exploring the essence of participants insights and the richness of their voices. The intention was to develop a data analysis tool to help explore the experiences of Māori healers and social workers, and how these individuals understand traditional healing knowledge in social work. The various analytical stages integrate important qualitative techniques such as the practice of observation, coding and creating themes however these aspects have been adapted to align with four states of human consciousness from a Māori spiritual perspective. Each stage guides researchers through a rigorous and intuitive process to elicit key kaupapa (themes) contained within participants’ stories. The Ara Wairua analysis tool is underpinned by pūrākau (narrative) methodology which is an ancestral story telling framework used by researchers to capture the richness of individuals experiences. The Ara Wairua initiates the praxis of pūrākau methodology by engaging the researcher in a cyclic motion of thinking, being and doing as they move through the research journey. This feature of the Ara Wairua tool further engages researchers in processes of reflexivity and reflection, both of which are critical skills when doing research with Indigenous Peoples.
Exploring Cognitive Bias Effects on Budget Judgment Behavior: Scoping Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Overmans Tom
Published: November 2024

Behavior is a critical aspect of public budgeting research. However, much of the scholarly focus has been on collective budgeting behavior, leaving a gap in understanding individuals’ pre-negotiation judgment behavior. This oversight is concerning given evidence from adjacent fields that highlights predictable information-processing irrationalities due to human cognitive limitations. While it is plausible that cognitive biases also influence individuals’ judgments of budget proposals, behavior-informed insights from Economics, Psychology, and Public Administration have yet to be fully integrated into public budgeting research. In this article, we differentiate between individual budget judgment and collective budget negotiation, advocating for renewed attention to budgeting behavior at the micro-level. Through a scoping review, we gather empirically verified effects of cognitive biases on private financial decision behavior and discuss these findings within the context of public sector decision-making. Our theoretical contribution includes the development of an advanced behavioral model of Public Budgeting and hypotheses to test cognitive bias effects on individual budgeting action. Amid recent criticisms of behavioral public administration, we are developing research agenda aimed not only at testing the existence of bias but also at identifying solutions to change judgment behavior, thereby better equipping individuals for collective budgeting action.