bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case Management Implications for Pediatric Patients With Congenital Heart Disease in China: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhang Linfang , Chen Xiuchun , Du Na
Published: November 2024

Objectives. Case management, which is defined as a fully collaborative process that includes evaluation, planning, execution, coordination and supervision, has been widely used in the field of chronic diseases. However, the clinical effect of case management in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) is unclear. This study was to explore the effects of case management model in pediatric patients with CHD. Methods. A total of 110 pediatric CHD patients referred to our center from January 2018 to January 2020 were enrolled for analysis. Patients were randomly assigned to a case management (experimental) group or a conventional nursing (control) group. Patient satisfaction, quality of life, and clinical outcomes were compared between the 2 groups. Results. Compared with that in the control group, patient satisfaction rate was significantly greater in the experimental group. Furthermore, the experimental group showed more significant improvement in quality of life than the control group did (73.8 ± 12.3 vs 66.5 ± 14.2, P < .001). In addition, the readmission rate in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group (5% vs 20%, P = .022). Conclusions. Case management mode can be effectively applied in pediatric patients with CHD, which can improve patient satisfaction rate, health-related quality of life and lower the readmission rate.
A Retrospective Case Series of Single-Screw vs Dual-Screw Fixation for Treatment of Medial Malleolus Fractures
Authors: Aamir Junaid , Caldwell Robyn , Long Sarah , Sreenivasan Sachith , Mavrotas Jason , Panesa Ayn , Jeevaresan Shagilan , Lampridis Vasileios , Mason Lyndon
Published: November 2024

Background:

Medial malleolus fractures (MMFs) are common across the world. Currently, there is a lack of consensus on the number of screws used in fixation of MMF. Our aim was to compare the radiographic outcomes of MMF with patients between fractures that have either undergone single-screw (SS) or dual-screw (DS) fixation.

Methods:

This retrospective study assessed patients who had undergone fixation of their MMF from 2012 to 2022. Analysis of their perioperative radiographs was performed to determine the initial type of injury and then radiographic outcomes of nonunion and malunion.

Results:

A total of 653 patients suffering bimalleolar fractures were identified across a 10-year period. There were 271 patients (41.50%) in the SS group and 382 in the DS group (58.50%). There was no difference found in the nonunion rate of SS (19.19% [52 of 271]) compared with DS (18.85% [72 of 382]) ( P = .931). A statistically significant difference between malunion rates was found between the SS group (11.07% [30 of 271]) compared with the DS group (3.93% [15 of 382]) ( P < .001). On multiregression analysis, factors that gained significance for development of nonunion was nonfixation of syndesmosis ( P = .039), ankle dislocation on arrival ( P < .001), and nonrestoration of fibular length ( P < .001). Other factors that showed significance for failure to achieve medial anatomical reduction was nonfixation of syndesmosis ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Use of an SS rather than DS showed a significant increase in nonanatomical reduction but did not increase nonunion or reoperation rate. Syndesmosis fixation was associated with higher rates of MMF nonunion and malunion; as such, surgeons should have a low index of suspicion of injury and fixation.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective case series.
Interpreting deep neural networks for the prediction of translation rates
Authors: Korbel Frederick , Eroshok Ekaterina , Ohler Uwe
Published: November 2024

Background

The 5’ untranslated region of mRNA strongly impacts the rate of translation initiation. A recent convolutional neural network (CNN) model accurately quantifies the relationship between massively parallel synthetic 5’ untranslated regions (5’UTRs) and translation levels. However, the underlying biological features, which drive model predictions, remain elusive. Uncovering sequence determinants predictive of translation output may allow us to develop a more detailed understanding of translation regulation at the 5’UTR.

Results

Applying model interpretation, we extract representations of regulatory logic from CNNs trained on synthetic and human 5’UTR reporter data. We reveal a complex interplay of regulatory sequence elements, such as initiation context and upstream open reading frames (uORFs) to influence model predictions. We show that models trained on synthetic data alone do not sufficiently explain translation regulation via the 5’UTR due to differences in the frequency of regulatory motifs compared to natural 5’UTRs.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the significance of model interpretation in understanding model behavior, properties of experimental data and ultimately mRNA translation. By combining synthetic and human 5’UTR reporter data, we develop a model (OptMRL) which better captures the characteristics of human translation regulation. This approach provides a general strategy for building more successful sequence-based models of gene regulation, as it combines global sampling of random sequences with the subspace of naturally occurring sequences. Ultimately, this will enhance our understanding of 5’UTR sequences in disease and our ability to engineer translation output.
Sheffield Adaptive Patterned Electrical Stimulation (SHAPES) Therapy for Post Stroke Arm spasticity: study protocol for a 3-arm, a partially blinded, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ali Ali , McCarthy Avril D. , Reeves Mark , Healey Jamie , Moody Louise , Adebajo Adewale , Good Tim , Dixon Simon , Baster Kathleen , Tindale Wendy , Nair Krishnan Padmakumari Sivaraman
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Post stroke elbow spasticity (PSES) affects over a third of individuals following stroke and negatively impacts on functional recovery, comfort and quality of life. Drug therapies have limited efficacy and unwanted side effects, botulinum toxin, although effective, is costly, and conventional electrical stimulation therapies are limited long term by habituation. We aim to investigate the efficacy of Sheffield Adaptive Patterned Electrical Stimulation (SHAPES), that delivers temporally and spatially varying pattern of electrical stimulation, against transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS) and standard care at reducing PSES.

Methods and design

Overall, 297 people with PSES will be randomised (1:1:1) to one of 3 arms: Standard care (no electrical stimulation), TENS (conventional patterned electrical stimulation) or SHAPES (adaptive patterned electrical stimulation). Both SHAPES and TENS are delivered using a specially designed electrical stimulation sleeve used for 60 min each day for 6-weeks. Outcome measures are completed at baseline, end of treatment (EOT 6 weeks) and then 6-weeks, 12-weeks and 24-weeks after the end of treatment. Efficacy will be determined based on the proportion of participants experiencing meaningful improvement (18%) in the 7-day Numerical Rating Scale (NRS-S) for PSES, compared between both intervention arms and standard care, and between the two intervention groups. Measures of arm motor function (Action Research Arm Test, MRC scale), and quality of life (SQoL-6D, EQ-5D) will also be measured along with a parallel health economic evaluation.

Discussion

The results of the SHAPES trial will inform management of elbow spasticity after stroke. The SHAPES intervention is a low cost, self-administered intervention for the management of spasticity that can be used repeatedly, and if found to be more effective than TENS or control has the potential to be widely implemented in the UK NHS healthcare setting. Furthermore, despite the wide use of TENS in the management of spasticity, this study will provide critically required evidence regarding its efficacy. The trial has been registered with the ISRCTN registry (ISRCTN26060261).
Transient biopsy-proven progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy-immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (PML-IRIS) in an elderly woman without known immunodeficiency: a case report
Authors: Ingebrigtsen Susanne Gaarden , Myrmel Kristin Smistad , Henriksen Stian , Wikran Gry Charlotte , Herder Marit , Tylden Garth D. , Hirsch Hans H. , Rinaldo Christine Hanssen
Published: November 2024

Background

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a severe opportunistic brain disease caused by lytic JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) replication in oligodendrocytes. Although JCPyV infection is common in the general population, PML almost exclusively occurs in patients immunocompromised due to untreated HIV/AIDS, haematological malignancies, primary immunodeficiencies, solid organ transplantation, or immunomodulatory treatment of autoimmune diseases. There is no effective antiviral treatment, and recovery depends on immune reconstitution. Paradoxically, initiation of antiretroviral therapy for HIV/AIDS or interruption of immunomodulating treatment can worsen the clinical manifestations due to immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Here, we report an unusual case of spontaneous IRIS in a 76-year-old immunocompetent woman, unmasking PML and leading to unexpected recovery.

Case presentation

The patient was admitted to the hospital due to psychosis, speech impairment, and behavioral changes over the last three months. She had previously been healthy, except for a cerebellar stroke secondary to paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed multiple contrast-enhancing white matter lesions suspicious of cancer metastases. Due to suspicion of edema, dexamethasone was administered, and the patient was released while waiting for a stereotactic brain biopsy. Eight days later, she suffered tonic seizures and was readmitted. Intravenous levetiracetam gave rapid effect, but the patient was paranoid and non-cooperative, and dexamethasone was unintentionally discontinued. Ten days later, the brain biopsy revealed demyelination, abundant perivascular T cells, macrophages, and scattered JCPyV-infected oligodendrocytes, rendering the diagnosis of PML-IRIS. The cerebrospinal fluid contained low amounts of JCPyV-DNA, and plasma contained high levels of anti-JCPyV immunoglobulin G. Despite extensive immunological testing, no evidence of immunodeficiency was found. The patient gradually recovered clinically and radiologically. More than 19 months after diagnosis, the patient has only a slight impairment in language and behavior.

Conclusions

An apparently immunocompetent elderly person developed clinically symptomatic PML, which spontaneously resolved with symptoms and signs of IRIS. The atypical MRI lesions with contrast enhancement and the lack of known immunological risk factors for PML delayed the diagnosis, eventually proved by biopsy. PML and PML-IRIS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting CNS symptoms and focal lesions with contrast enhancement on MRI.
Evaluation of patient satisfaction and maximum biting force of three differently constructed bars on two implants retaining mandibular overdenture - one year follow-up (a randomized controlled clinical trial)
Authors: Badr Amr Mohamed Ismail , Nabawy Mona , Mohammed Gehan Fekry , Radwan Shaimaa Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Background

Different bar construction techniques will affect the bar passive fitness, which may induce stresses or strain on the implant and/or tightening screw and sequentially may affect the biting force and patient satisfaction.

Aim of the study

This clinical investigation assessed patient satisfaction and maximum biting force (MBF) using three differently constructed (conventional casting, milling, and 3D printing CAD/CAM techniques) cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) bar-retained implants mandibular overdentures over a one-year period of follow-up.

Materials and methods

Thirty edentulous patients seeking for two implants bar-retained mandibular overdentures were randomly assigned into three groups as the following: Group I: 10 patients received a Co-Cr conventional casting bar, Group II: 10 patients received a Co-Cr CAD/CAM milled bar, and Group III: 10 patients received a Co-Cr CAD/CAM 3D-printed bar. All the bar groups were connected to two implants in the canine area bilaterally. Within the first two weeks following implant placement, patients received the definitive prosthesis. Patient satisfaction was evaluated by using the (OHIP-EDENT-19) questionnaire form after 6, and 12 months. Additionally, the maximum biting force was tested at after delivery, 3, 6, and 12 months for each group. The results were collected, tabulated, and statistically analyzed. Trial registration: This study was recorded on ClinicalTrials.gov retrospectively registered (ID: NCT06401187) on 30/04/2024.

Results

After one year follow up, regrading patient satisfaction the three groups showed no statistically significant difference. Although, the functional limitation domain was in favor of the milled bar. Regarding the maximum biting force, no statistically significant difference was found among three groups. However, at 12 mouths follow-up the milled bar showed statistically value.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, the conventional, milled and 3D printed bar overdentures groups can be used as a satisfactory treatment modality for edentulous mandible in terms of patient satisfaction and maximum biting force.
Ethics in the operating room: a systematic review
Authors: Agledahl Kari Milch , Pedersen Reidar
Published: November 2024

Background/Objective

The act of surgery involves harming vulnerable patients with the intent that the results will improve their health and, ultimately, help the patients. Such activities will inevitably entail moral decisions, yet the ethics of surgery has only recently developed as a field of medical ethics. Within this field, it is striking how few accounts there are of actions within the operating room. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate how much of the scientific publications on surgical ethics focus on what take place inside the operating room and to explore the ethical issues included in the publications that focus on medical ethics in the operating room.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of the Medline and Embase databases using a PICO model and the search terms “surgery”, “ethics” and “operating room”. Papers were included if they focused on doctors, entailed activities inside the operating room and contained some ethical analysis. Thematic synthesis was used for data extraction and analysis.

Findings

Fewer than 2% of the scientific publications on surgical ethics included activities inside the operating room. A total of 108 studies were included in the full-text analysis and reported according to the RESERVE guidelines. Eight content areas covered 2/3 of the included papers: DNR orders in the OR, overlapping surgery, donation of organs, broadcasting live surgery, video recordings in the OR, communication/teamwork, implementing new surgical technology, and denying blood to Jehovah’s Witness.

Discussion/Conclusions

This systematic review indicates that only a small fraction of scientific publications on the ethics of surgery focus on issues inside the operating room, accentuating the need for further research to close this gap. The ethical issues that repeatedly arose in the included papers included the meaning of patient autonomy inside the operating room, the consequences of technological advances in surgery, the balancing of legitimate interests, the dehumanising potential of the OR, and the strong notion of surgeon responsibility.
Association between RANTES/CCL5 levels with Plasmodium infections and malaria severity: a systematic review
Authors: Kwankaew Pattamaporn , Mahittikorn Aongart , Mala Wanida , Kotepui Kwuntida Uthaisar , Anabire Nsoh Godwin , Wilairatana Polrat , Kotepui Manas
Published: November 2024

Background

Malaria continues to be a significant global health concern, and developing effective therapeutic strategies requires an understanding of the immune response to the disease. This systematic review synthesized the current body of research on the role of regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES)—in the pathogenesis and disease severity of malaria.

Methods

A systematic review protocol was registered with PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42024535822. The systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to identify studies examining RANTES levels in individuals infected with Plasmodium species. Searches were performed across multiple databases, including ProQuest, Journals@Ovid, Embase, Scopus, PubMed, and MEDLINE. Further searches were performed in Google Scholar. Quality assessment was done using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Alterations in RANTES levels in patients with malaria were synthesized narratively.

Results

A comprehensive search of major databases identified 22 studies meeting inclusion criteria, predominantly focusing on Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax infections. RANTES levels were found to vary significantly across different severities of malaria, with several studies reporting lower levels in severe cases compared to non-malarial controls. However, inconsistencies were observed in the alterations of RANTES levels between severe and non-severe malaria cases.

Conclusion

Taken together, the finding of this systematic review underscore the complex regulation of RANTES in malaria pathophysiology. Future research should focus on longitudinal assessments to elucidate the dynamic role of RANTES throughout the course of malaria and recovery, to potentially inform the design of novel therapeutic strategies.
Economic evaluations of eye care services for Indigenous populations in high-income countries: a scoping review
Authors: Nejatian Marcel Maziyar , Sincari Andrei , Alam Khyber , Li Ian , Razavi Hessom
Published: November 2024

Background

Indigenous people in high-income countries have worse eye health outcomes when compared to non-Indigenous people, contributing to ongoing socioeconomic disadvantage. Although services have been designed to address these disparities, it is unclear if they have undergone comprehensive economic evaluation. Our scoping review aimed to identify the number, type, quality, and main findings of such evaluations.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library Database, the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database, EconLit, and relevant grey literature were systematically searched as per our pre-registered protocol. All economic evaluations of real or model services designed to meet the eye care needs of Indigenous populations in high-income countries were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality using the Quality of Health Economic Studies instrument.

Results

We identified 20 studies evaluating services for Indigenous populations in Australia (n = 9), Canada (n = 7), and the United States of America (n = 4). Common services included diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening through fundus photographs acquired in local primary health care clinics (n = 7) or by mobile teams (n = 6), and general eye care through teleophthalmology (n = 2), outreach ophthalmology (n = 2) or an Indigenous health care clinic optometrist (n = 1). These services were economically favourable in 85% of comparisons with conventional alternatives, mainly through reduced costs of travel, in-person consults, and vision loss. Only four studies assessed the benefits of increased patient uptake. Only five included patient evaluations, but none integrated these into their quantitative analysis. Methodological issues included no stated economic perspective (n = 10), no sensitivity analysis (n = 12), no discounting (n = 9), inappropriate measurement of costs (n = 13) or outcomes (n = 5), and unjustified assumptions (n = 15).

Conclusion

Several Indigenous eye care services are cost-effective, particularly remote DR screening. Other services are promising but require evaluation, with attention to avoid common methodological pitfalls. Well-designed evaluations can guide the allocation of scarce resources to services with demonstrated effectiveness and sustainability.

Trial registration

Our scoping review protocol was pre-registered (Open Science Framework DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/YQKWN).
Height prediction of individuals with osteogenesis imperfecta by machine learning
Authors: Yang Hongjiang , Zhu Wenbiao , Li Bo , Wang Hao , Xing Cong , Xiong Yang , Ren Xiuzhi , Ning Guangzhi
Published: November 2024

Background

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic disorder characterized by low bone mass, bone fragility and short stature. There is a significant gap in knowledge regarding the growth patterns across different types of OI, and the prediction of height in individuals with OI was not adequately addressed. In this study, we described the growth patterns and predicted the height of individuals with OI employing multiple machine learning (ML) models. Accurate height prediction enables effective monitoring and facilitates the development of personalized intervention plans for managing OI.

Method

This study included cross-sectional data for 323 participants with OI, and the median height Z-score for OI types I, III and IV were − 0.62 (-5.93 ~ 3.24), -3.97 (-10.44 ~ -0.02) and − 1.64 (-6.67 ~ 2.44), respectively. Based on the cross-sectional data of participants, the height curves across different gender and OI types were plotted and compared. Subsequently, feature selection techniques, specifically the filter and wrapper methods, were employed to identify predictive factors for the height of participants. Finally, multiple machine learning (ML) models were constructed for height prediction, and the performance of each model was systematically evaluated.

Results

The analysis of height curves revealed that male with OI are significantly taller than female with OI from the age of 14 (p = 0.045), individuals with OI type III are statistically shorter than those with OI types I and IV starting from 3 years old (p = 0.006), and those with OI type IV are statistically shorter than those with OI type I from the age of 10 (p = 0.028). The application of filter and wrapper methods identified gender (p = 0.001), age (p < 0.001), Sillence types (p = 0.007), weight Z-score (p < 0.001) and aBMD Z-score (p = 0.021) as significant predictive factors for height. The optimal performance of predictive models was registered by gradient boosting classifier (GB) (bias = 5.783, accuracy = 92.59%, R2 = 0.828), random forest (RF) (bias = 6.155, accuracy = 90.12%, R2 = 0.788), ensemble machine learning (EML) (bias = 6.250, accuracy = 91.36%, R2 = 0.825) and deep neuron networks (DNNs) (bias = 6.223, accuracy = 90.12%, R2 = 0.821).

Conclusion

This study analyzed a large cohort of individuals with OI and provided detailed height patterns across different gender and OI types that are crucial for assessing overall growth. Gender, age, Sillence types, weight Z-score and aBMD Z-score were identified as predictive factors for height. The predictive models of GB, RF, EML and DNNs had higher accuracy to evaluate the height of individuals with OI. This study allows guardians and physicians to timely monitor the height parameters, and facilitate the creation of personalized intervention schedules tailored to the needs of individuals with OI.
Failed oral immunotherapy should be considered as a risk factor for fatal anaphylaxis, and omalizumab treatment considered
Authors: Nicolardi Francesca , Corona Federica , Badina Laura , Berti Irene , Barbi Egidio
Published: November 2024

Oral immunotherapy is proposed as the only active intervention to modify allergies and decrease the risk of severe reactions. However, it is crucial to note that oral immunotherapy still presents a notable failure rate and potential for severe, life-threatening outcomes. Notably, patients who discontinue oral immunotherapy may face an increased risk of fatal reactions. Omalizumab could be a viable option for patients with failed oral immunotherapy.
Tele-support in breastfeeding: position statement of the Italian society of Neonatology
Authors: Davanzo Riccardo , Bettinelli Maria Enrica , Baldassarre Mariella , Mondello Isabella , Soldi Antonella , Perugi Silvia , Giannì Maria Lorella , Colombo Lorenzo , Salvatori Guglielmo , Travan Laura , Giordano Giuseppe ,   Breastfeeding Section of the Italian Society of Neonatology
Published: November 2024

Tele-support in breastfeeding can be defined as any support provided by a service that connects health workers and/or lactation consultants with breastfeeding parents through video visits, although a telephone contact with the breastfeeding mother remains the first method of remote breastfeeding support. The tele-support in breastfeeding has increased significantly during the SARS-CoV2 pandemic worldwide and, given its effectiveness, may be maintained also after the pandemic. The Italian Society of Neonatology on the basis of: 1) two focus group studies on the tele-support in breastfeeding conducted in Italy with 11 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit nurses and 10 neonatologists, respectively, 2) a national survey on tele-support in breastfeeding addressing the Italian Neonatal Intensive Care Units, and 3) a review of the available experiences and literature, has provided a Position Statement, limitedly to the individual tele-support in breastfeeding. The Italian Society of Neonatology states that: 1) the tele-support in breastfeeding can be used when a consultation in person is not shortly available and may allow to select those situations that require an in-person visit; 2) the organization of a tele-support in breastfeeding session requires the use of a competent, dedicated healthcare staff (specifically trained and/or with adequate experience) and an appropriate methodology while preparing, running and concluding the support session. According to Italian Society of Neonatology the tele-support in breastfeeding may be an effective intervention to promote breastfeeding as a complementary method to the in-person assistance and should be possibly provided in an integrated manner by the Community Health Services and the Maternity Hospital.
Changes in lipid abundance are associated with disease progression and treatment response in chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Authors: Gabaldón-Figueira Juan Carlos , Ros-Lucas Albert , Martínez-Peinado Nieves , Blackburn Gavin , Losada-Galvan Irene , Posada Elizabeth , Ballart Cristina , Escabia Elisa , Capellades Jordi , Yanes Oscar , Pinazo María-Jesús , Gascón Joaquim , Alonso-Padilla Julio
Published: November 2024

Background

Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is a zoonosis that affects more than seven million people. Current limitations on the diagnosis of the disease hinder the prognosis of patients and the evaluation of treatment efficacy, slowing the development of new therapeutic options. The infection is known to disrupt several host metabolic pathways, providing an opportunity for the identification of biomarkers.

Methods

The metabolomic and lipidomic profiles of a cohort of symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with T. cruzi infection and a group of uninfected controls were analysed using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Differences among all groups and changes before and after receiving anti-parasitic treatment across those with T. cruzi infection were explored.

Results

Three lipids were found to differentiate between symptomatic and asymptomatic participants: 10-hydroxydecanoic acid and phosphatidylethanolamines PE(18:0/20:4) and PE(18:1/20:4). Additionally, sphinganine, 4-hydroxysphinganine, hexadecasphinganine, and other sphingolipids showed post-treatment abundance similar to that in non-infected controls.

Conclusions

These molecules hold promise as potentially useful biomarkers for monitoring disease progression and treatment response in patients with chronic T. cruzi infection.

Graphical Abstract
Retrospective investigation of porcine circoviruses in cases of porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome
Authors: Cobos Àlex , Domingo Mariano , Pérez Mónica , Huerta Eva , Llorens Anna , Segalés Joaquim , Sibila Marina
Published: November 2024

Porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS) is a severe condition that affects mainly growing pigs and is considered to be caused by a type III hypersensitivity reaction. Although porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2) is the antigen linked to this condition, porcine circovirus 3 (PCV-3) has also been proposed to be causally associated with PDNS. Moreover, the initial description of porcine circovirus 4 (PCV-4) also related this novel agent to this clinicopathological entity. Therefore, this retrospective study included a large number of PDNS cases (n = 102) fulfilling specific histologic criteria in search of known porcine circoviruses (PCV-1 to PCV-4) by conventional and/or quantitative PCR (qPCR). All the samples were subjected to PCV-2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) or conventional in situ hybridization (C-ISH), and RNAscope® (R-ISH) was used to study PCV-2 and PCV-3 localization in a subset of the samples. All PDNS cases were PCV-2 positive by qPCR, while 30 of them (29.4%) yielded PCV-3 qPCR positivity; PCV-2 viral loads were significantly greater than PCV-3 viral loads. All animals were negative for PCV-1 and PCV-4. By C-ISH/IHC, 63 cases (61.8%) were positive for PCV-2, with low to moderate amounts of antigen. R-ISH demonstrated higher sensitivity, as all studied cases were positive; however, neither PCV-2 nor PCV-3 were consistently found within characteristic PDNS lesions. These results indicate that all PDNS-affected pigs were infected with PCV-2, emphasizing the likelihood that this viral antigen is causally linked to this condition. In contrast, no evidence of the association of PCV-1, PCV-3 or PCV-4 with PDNS was found.
Validation of a prognostic blood-based sphingolipid panel for men with localized prostate cancer followed on active surveillance
Authors: Gregg Justin R. , Newcomb Lisa , Wu Ranran , Dennison Jennifer , Davis John W. , Pettaway Curtis , Pisters Louis , Ward John F. , Chapin Brian F. , Chéry Lisly , Urkmez Ahmet , Fang Andrew M. , Higgason Noel , Troncoso Patricia , Daniel Carrie R. , Logothetis Christopher , Thompson Timothy C. , Hahn Andrew W. , Liu Menghan , Zheng Yingye , Lin Dan W. , Hanash Samir , Irajizad Ehsan , Fahrmann Johannes
Published: November 2024

Background

We previously reported that increases in circulating sphingolipids are associated with elevated risk of biopsy Gleason grade group (GG) upgrading in men on Active Surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer. Here, we aimed to validate these findings and establish a blood-based sphingolipid biomarker panel for identifying men on AS who are at high-risk of biopsy GG upgrading.

Methods

Men diagnosed with low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer in one of two AS cohorts (CANARY PASS and MDACC) were followed for GG upgrading after diagnostic and confirmatory biopsy. The PASS cohort consisted of 544 patients whereas the MDACC Cohort consisted of 697 patients. The number of patients with GG upgrading during course of study follow-up in the PASS and MDACC cohorts were 98 (17.7%) and 133 (19.1%), respectively. Plasmas collected prior to confirmatory biopsy were used for mass spectrometry-based quantitation of 87 unique sphingolipid species. A neural network layer based on 21 sphingolipids was developed in the CANARY PASS cohort for predicting biopsy GG upgrading. Tertile-based thresholds for low-, intermediate-, and high-risk strata were subsequently developed for the sphingolipid panel as well as a model that combined the sphingolipid panel with PSA density and rate of core positivity on diagnostic biopsy. The resultant models and risk thresholds for GG upgrading were validated in the MDACC cohort. Performance was assessed using Cox proportional hazard models, C-index, AUC, and cumulative incidence curves.

Results

The sphingolipid panel had a HR (per unit standard deviation increase) of 1.36 (95% CI: 1.07–1.70) and 1.35 (95% CI: 1.11–1.64) for predicting GG biopsy upgrading in the PASS and MDACC cohort, respectively. The model that combined the sphingolipid panel with PSA density and rate of core positivity achieved a HR of 1.63 (95% CI: 1.33-2.00) and 1.44 (1.25–1.66), respectively. Tertile-based thresholds, established in the PASS cohort, were applied to the independent MDACC cohort. Compared to the low-risk group, MDACC patients in the high-risk strata had a GG biopsy upgrade HR of 3.65 (95% CI: 2.21–6.02), capturing 50% of the patients that had biopsy upgrading during study follow-up.

Conclusions

The sphingolipid panel is independently associated with GG biopsy upgrading among men in two independent AS cohorts who have previously undergone diagnostic and confirmatory biopsy. The sphingolipid panel, together with clinical factors, provides a potential means for risk stratification to better guide clinical management of men on AS.
Adult supratentorial peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor with multiple metastases: a case report and literature review
Authors: Cheng Dejing , Yang Siyuan , Qi Zhenyu , Ji Chengyuan
Published: November 2024

Background

Intracranial primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs) are characterized by poorly differentiated, highly malignant, aggressive small round tumor cells originating from the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old Chinese woman experienced sudden onset headache, vomiting, and severe anemia. Imaging examinations revealed a mass in the left parietal occipital lobe. Following microsurgery, histological confirmation revealed the tumor to be pPNET. Postoperative computed tomography (CT) showed multiple metastases in the lung, liver, and retroperitoneal lymph node. Unfortunately, she died of tumor cachexia 1 month after chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Due to the rare presentation of pPNET, pPNET would be misdiagnosed without the histological diagnosis. Here, we aimed to provide clinicians with information about the treatment and relevant literature of pPNET.
The IFIH1 gene variants rs1990760 and rs2111485 are associated with COVID-19 susceptibility and affect IFIH1 protein levels in Iraqis
Authors: Majeed Abdulraheem Y. , Zulkafli Nor Effa S. , Ad’hiah Ali H.
Published: November 2024

Background

Interferon-induced helicase C domain-containing protein 1 (IFIH1) is one of the main pattern recognition receptors that sense viral RNA and activate host cells to mount an effective antiviral immunity.

Methods

A case–control study (90 patients with mild/moderate COVID-19 and 90 matched controls) was performed to explore the association of two variants of the IFIH1 gene with COVID-19 risk using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase-chain-reaction method. The first is a missense variant, rs1990760 C/T, and the second is an intergenic variant, rs2111485 A/G. In addition, serum IFIH1 levels were assessed using an ELISA kit.

Results

Mutant alleles (T and G, respectively) and corresponding homozygous genotypes (TT and GG, respectively) of both variants were significantly associated with increased risk of COVID-19. IFIH1 levels were significantly higher in patients compared to controls and were favorably affected by the rs1990760 and rs2111485 mutant-type genotypes.

Conclusion

IFIH1 protein showed up-regulated levels in the serum of patients with mild/moderate COVID-19. In addition, the IFIH1 gene variants rs1990760 C/T and rs2111485 A/G were associated with susceptibility to COVID-19, and the study suggests that their mutant-type genotypes are not only associated with increased risk of COVID-19 but also contributed to higher serum IFIH1 levels.
Aflatoxin risk in the era of climatic change-a comprehensive review
Authors: Bunny Saboor Muarij , Umar Abeera , Bhatti Hamzah Shahbaz , Honey Sabyan Faris
Published: November 2024

This review highlights the major influence that both climate change and aflatoxin contamination have on global food safety as it examines their complex relationship. Fungi such as
Aspergillus flavus
produce aflatoxins, which can seriously harm one's health by compromising the immune system and causing chronic disorders. The review looks at how temperature and humidity affect the production of aflatoxin. The evaluation of current models emphasizes the necessity for novel strategies and up-to-date climatic data. The changing climatic conditions are taken into consideration while discussing regulatory frameworks and international standards. Additionally, the paper explores cutting-edge sensing technologies for improved surveillance of aflatoxin contamination. Molecular markers and resistance characteristics are two areas of future investigation. In view of a changing climate, the conclusion emphasizes the continued difficulties in creating crops that are climate resilient and calls for cooperation in addressing aflatoxin problems.
Formation of professionally important qualities of police officers through a project-based methodology for studying the discipline “Professional Ethics and Service Etiquette"
Authors: Kursakova Elena , Lyubimova Ol'ga , Grigoriev Dmitry
Published: November 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the formation of professionally important qualities (hereinafter referred to as PIC) of students at the Barnaul Law Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, ensuring their moral and psychological stability (honesty, discipline, responsibility, justice, etc.). An analysis of expert assessments of the formation of professionally important qualities grouped into four clusters "Moral stability", "Sustainability of working capacity", "Self-organization in professional activity", "Extroversion, social activity" was conducted on a representative sample (over 600 respondents). A comparative analysis by forms of study (full-time, part-time, faculty of professional retraining - short-term full-time programs) showed that students of the correspondence form of study included in practical professional activity, assess the formation of "professionally important qualities of students" significantly higher than students of other forms, with the exception of the cluster "Self-organization in professional activity". A comparative analysis of expert assessments of full-time students of the 2nd and 4th years demonstrated positive dynamics in three clusters, proving the overall effectiveness of the educational work of the university. Stagnation of indicators is observed for the factor "sustainability of working capacity". The results of the study formed the basis for developing the content of the course "Professional Ethics and Service Etiquette". The experience of implementing the project method as a technology for developing "professionally important qualities of students" is substantiated and described
Methodological framework as a means of designing educational products
Authors: Osipov Michael , Nadrshina Larisa , Erofeeva Maria
Published: November 2024

Frameworks are one of the most relevant tools for designing educational products today. Despite the various sources devoted to the definition of the framework, it should be noted that there is no unified understanding of this concept. In the Russian educational field, the framework is used as a tool for solving various kinds of tasks. The working concept of a "Methodological framework" is to define it as a ready-made methodological tool that allows you to systematically solve highly specialized tasks in the design of educational products. The paper describes the stages of designing a methodological framework, which includes the following steps: preparatory, basic and final. Research objectives to be solved: to formulate the concept of a methodological framework for use in the design of an educational product; to give a comparative characteristic between a methodological framework and a methodological recommendation; to describe the main elements of a methodological framework taking into account a systematic approach; to demonstrate the results and advantages of using a methodological framework.
The article describes the experience of implementing a methodological framework within the framework of the "Creative Workshop Framlab" in the format of a telegram group with more than 455 participants. The conclusions made make it possible to contribute to the practice of using a methodological framework for designing educational products, as well as to the development of domestic pedagogical design.
Ontological modeling as a means of semantization of terminological vocabulary in the process of teaching a foreign language of specialty
Authors: Latysheva Svetlana , Schurik Natal'ya
Published: November 2024

The study provides a rationale for the use of ontological modeling techniques for teaching the language of a specialty to foreign students studying educational programs in Russian. Ontologies of subject areas, defined as conceptualization specifications, are widely used in computational linguistics to create formalized knowledge management systems. In the context of internationalization, globalization and a colossal increase in the volume of industry knowledge, linguaprofessional skills of interlingual modeling and systematization of conceptual areas of various professions should become a basic element of foreign-language professional communicative competence. This study presents the experience of applying linguistic ontological modeling techniques as a means of improving the effectiveness of terminology teaching, in particular, in terms of semantization of terminological units that form the conceptual sphere of professional communication of students in non-linguistic areas of training. In the course of this study, positive experience was accumulated in applying linguistic ontological modeling techniques, proving the feasibility of using ontologies as a means of semantization of industry terminology. In the applied aspect, the approach we propose can be used for ontological modeling of foreign language courses for special purposes, as well as for creating digital didactic products with an extended list of functions that form a linguistic and professional virtual learning environment.
Metaresource of life successfulness among various categories of employees of internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation
Authors: Semenova Natalya
Published: November 2024

The article poses the problem of studying the constructive (resource) aspect of the personality of employees of internal affairs bodies, which has a positive impact on the success of their professional activities. An understanding of the meta-resource of a person’s success in life is given, which helps determine the significance of individual elements of life and its general understanding, performs an acceptor function and is a predictor in relation to subjective (internal) and some objective (external) indicators of professional success of employees of internal affairs bodies. A meaningful description of the components of the meta-resource of life success as a systemic education is presented: reflexive mechanisms, integrative qualities and emotional experiences.
The purpose of the study, which is to study the severity of the components of the metaresource of life successfulness and their relationship among various categories of employees of internal affairs bodies, was achieved through the use of comparative analysis, the Kruskal-Wallis difference test and correlation analysis when processing empirical results obtained from a sample of employees consisting of 1278 people (adjuncts, cadets, teachers of educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, psychologists working with personnel and PDN employees from various regions of the Russian Federation). The study was carried out using the author’s methodology “Success in Life” (N.A. Deeva (Semenova)).
The results of a comparative analysis of empirical data showed the presence of statistically significant differences between the indicators of reflexive mechanisms and emotional experiences in the studied categories of employees. The lowest indicators are typical for the categories of adjuncts and PDN employees; the most favorable picture is typical for teachers and cadets.
The results of the correlation analysis showed the most favorable picture also in the categories of cadets and teachers, where all indicators of the components of the metaresource of life successfulness have positive significant relationships. In the categories of adjuncts, psychologists and PDN employees, there is a lack of significant correlations between indicators of emotional experiences and indicators of reflexive mechanisms and integrative qualities. This feature is probably associated with the nature of professional activity and is expressed by problems of emotional involvement in the process of anticipating the results of activity, emotional assessment of the results obtained, and emotional experience of the process of achieving the goal.
The article outlines the possibilities of taking into account the results obtained when implementing the main directions and tasks of psychological work within the framework of moral and psychological support for the activities of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation.
TRAINING AS A VARIABLE COMPONENT OF PROFESSIONAL SOCIALISATION OF FUTURE SOCIAL SPHERE SPECIALISTS IN DIFFERENT TYPES OF HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Nikitskaya Ekaterina
Published: November 2024

In the social sphere of modern Russia against the background of rapid transformation socio-economic and political processes, the phenomenon of professional socialisation has become an urgent social problem. Society's expectations from education as a key component of the social sphere are largely related to the capabilities and readiness of higher education to find the most effective ways to solve the problems of training and professional socialisation of social sphere specialists. The purpose of the article is to focus the attention of subjects of professional socialisation and scientific and pedagogical community on the necessity to comprehend the role of one of the variable components of professional socialisation of future social sphere specialists in different types of higher education institutions, namely the form of organisation of the pedagogical process - training, which determines the content of professional socialisation of future social sphere specialists. The materials presented in the article significantly expand the subject field of humanitarian knowledge and are a stimulus to conceptual understanding of the problems of professional socialisation of a person. The article is addressed to specialists, professionally interested in solving actual problems of professional socialisation, as well as adjuncts, cadets, listeners, teachers of educational organisations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, teachers and students of educational institutions of psychological, pedagogical and confession-oriented profiles