bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active Versus Passive Drainage Systems for Subdural Hematomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Porto Junior Silvio , Meira Davi Amorim , da Cunha Beatriz Lopes Bernardo , Fontes Jefferson Heber Marques , Pustilnik Hugo Nunes , Medrado Nunes Gabriel Souza , Cerqueira Gabriel Araujo , Silva da Paz Matheus Gomes da , Alcântara Tancredo , Dourado Jules Carlos , Miranda de Avelar Leonardo
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) management involves various surgical techniques, with drainage systems playing a pivotal role. While passive drainage (PD) and active drainage (AD) are both used, their efficacy remains contentious. Some studies favor PD for lower recurrence rates, while others suggest AD superiority. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to address this controversy, aiming to provide clarity on optimal drainage modalities post-CSDH evacuation.

METHODS:

This systematic review and meta-analysis followed preferred reporting items for systematic reviews guidelines, searching PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science until February 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on studies comparing active vs PD for subdural hematomas. Data extraction involved independent researchers, and statistical analysis was conducted using R software. The assessment of risk of bias was performed using the Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions framework and the Risk Of Bias 2 tool.

RESULTS:

In this meta-analysis, involving 1949 patients with AD and 1346 with PD, no significant differences were observed in recurrence rates between the active (13.6%) and passive (16.4%) drainage groups (risk ratio [RR] = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.58-1.31). Similarly, for complications, infection, hemorrhage, and mortality, no significant disparities were found between the 2 drainage modalities. Complication rates were 7.5% for active and 12.6% for PD (RR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.36-1.52). Infection rates were available for 635 patients of the active group, counting for 2% and 2.6%, respectively (RR = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.24-4.01). Hemorrhage rates were also available for 635 patients of the active group, counting for 1.1% and 2.2%, respectively (RR = 0.44; 95% CI: 0.11-1.81). Mortality rates were 2.7% and 2.5%, respectively (RR = 0.94; 95% CI: 0.61-1.46).

CONCLUSION:

Our study found no significant difference between passive and AD for managing complications, recurrence, infection, hemorrhage, or mortality in CSDH cases. Further large-scale randomized trials are needed for clarity.
HBS1L deficiency causes retinal dystrophy in a child and in a mouse model associated with defective development of photoreceptor cells
Authors: Luo Shiyu , Alwattar Bilal , Li Qifei , Bora Kiran , Blomfield Alexandra K. , Lin Jasmine , Fulton Anne , Chen Jing , Agrawal Pankaj B.
Published: July 2024

Inherited retinal diseases encompass a genetically diverse group of conditions caused by variants in genes critical to retinal function, including handful of ribosome-associated genes. This study focuses on the HBS1L gene, which encodes for the HBS1-like translational GTPase that is crucial for ribosomal rescue. We have reported a female child carrying biallelic HBS1L variants, manifesting with poor growth and neurodevelopmental delay. Here, we describe the ophthalmologic findings in the patient and in Hbs1ltm1a/tm1a hypomorph mice and describe the associated microscopic and molecular perturbations. The patient has impaired visual function, showing dampened amplitudes of a- and b-waves in both rod- and cone-mediated responses. Hbs1ltm1a/tm1a mice exhibited profound thinning of the entire retina, specifically of the outer photoreceptor layer, due to extensive photoreceptor cell apoptosis. Loss of Hbs1l resulted in comprehensive proteomic alterations by mass spectrometry analysis, with an increase in the levels of 169 proteins and a decrease in the levels of 480 proteins, including rhodopsin (Rho) and peripherin 2 (Prph2). Gene Ontology biological process and gene set enrichment analyses reveal that the downregulated proteins are primarily involved in phototransduction, cilium assembly and photoreceptor cell development. These findings underscore the importance of ribosomal rescue proteins in maintaining retinal health, particularly in photoreceptor cells.
Μετανοσοκομειακή παρακολούθηση ασθενών με σύνδρομο οξείας αναπνευστικής δυσχέρειας
Authors: Τριανταφυλλάκη Παναγιώτα
Published: July 2024

Εισαγωγή: Το σύνδρομο οξείας αναπνευστικής δυσχέρειας (ARDS) είναι μια οξεία φλεγμονώδης πνευμονική διεργασία που οδηγεί σε πλούσιο σε πρωτεΐνες, μη υδροστατικό πνευμονικό οίδημα, ανεπιθύμητη υποξαιμία και δυσκαμψία των πνευμόνων. Ένα σημαντικό ποσοστό των ατόμων που θα χρειαστούν νοσηλεία, μεταξύ 15%-30%, θα αναπτύξουν σοβαρή αναπνευστική ανεπάρκεια, ARDS και αυξημένη πιθανότητα διασωλήνωσης για μηχανικήαναπνευστική υποστήριξη. Σκοπός: Σκοπό της μελέτης αποτέλεσε η μετανοσοκομειακή παρακολούθηση των ασθενών που είχαν επιβιώσει από Σύνδρομο Οξείας Αναπνευστικής Δυσχέρειας. Μεθοδολογία: Πρόκειται για συγχρονική μελέτη καταγραφής δεδομένων ασθενών που εκτιμήθηκαν στην ΜΕΘ. Όλοι οι ασθενείς συμμετείχαν σε πρόγραμμα παρακολούθησης στον πρώτο, στον τρίτο, στον έκτο μήνα, καθώς και στο πρώτο έτος μετά την έξοδο από τη ΜΕΘ και το Νοσοκομείο. Χρησιμοποιήθηκαν φόρμα καταγραφής δημογραφικών δεδομένων, καθώς και κλίμακες αξιολόγησης που αφορούσαν την ποιότητα ζωής, το νοσοκομειακό άγχος, το μετατραυματικό στρες, την λειτουργικότητα, καθώς και την αυτοφροντίδα. Για την ανάλυση των αποτελεσμάτων χρησιμοποιήθηκε το στατιστικό πακέτο SPSS ver.24. Ως επίπεδο σημαντικότητας ορίστηκε το p<0,05. Αποτελέσματα: Το δείγμα αποτέλεσαν 39 ασθενείς, όπου το 79,5% (n=31) ήταν άνδρες ενώ το 20,5% (n=8) γυναίκες. Η μέση ηλικία των ασθενών ήταν τα 59,72 έτη. Σχετικά με το μορφωτικό επίπεδο 20 (51,3%) ασθενείς δήλωσαν πως είχαν ολοκληρώσει την τριτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση ενώ 19 (48,7%) τη δευτεροβάθμια εκπαίδευση. Στατιστικά σημαντική διαπίστωση αποτέλεσε ότι το μορφωτικό επίπεδο των ασθενών διαφέρει σε όλες τις κλίμακες που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν (SF-36, EQ-5D, DTS, HADS), καθώς και ότι η ηλικία και η διάρκεια νοσηλείας στη ΜΕΘ έχουν στατιστικά σημαντική σχέση, σε σχέση με την κλίμακα που αφορά τις συνηθισμένες δραστηριότητες (EQ-5D). Επίσης, οι μέρες μηχανικής υποστήριξης της αναπνοής, επηρεάζουν το χρόνο αποκατάστασης των ασθενών. Συμπεράσματα: Η πλήρης αποκατάσταση των συγκεκριμένων ασθενών τόσο σε σωματικό, αλλά και ψυχολογικό επίπεδο, είναι μια μακρά διαδικασία, που μπορεί να διαρκέσει έως και ένα έτος ή και παραπάνω. Το επίπεδο εκπαίδευσης, ο χρόνος νοσηλείας αλλά και οι μέρες μηχανικής υποστήριξης της αναπνοής και η συνολική παραμονή στη ΜΕΘ, είναι οι κυριότεροι παράγοντες που συσχετίστηκαν με το συνολικό χρόνο αποκατάστασης της ποιότητας ζωής τους
Dancers in the Dark: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the identity perception of female sex workers
Authors: Mamalaki Eirini , Iliopoulou Triantafyllia , Pilafas Georgios , Louka Penelope
Published: July 2024

Background: Sex workers, particularly those involved in prostitution, face elevated risks of violence and psychological distress. While existing research has focused on harm reduction strategies, limited attention has been given to the psychological protection of sex workers.
Aim: This study explores the concept of a "manufactured identity," a persona constructed exclusively for the workplace, which serves as a defence mechanism for sex workers. The manufactured identity enables them to distance themselves from the intimate nature of their work and shield their true selves from work-related distress. Additionally, it may facilitate better emotional management, a sense of control, and empowerment. Employing an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis approach, this research aims to gain insights into the objectives and effects of maintaining a manufactured identity among female Greek sex workers and to explore the perspectives of those who reject its presence in their work.
Materila and Methods: Five women who work as sex workers voluntarily participated in the study excluding women who were victims of trafficking. Participants were recruited through professional networks, online forums and advertisements. Three subthemes emerged from the analysis: "Better Control of the Inner World," "The Negative Aspects of a Manufactured Identity," and "The Rewards of a Manufactured Identity."
Results: The findings suggest that a manufactured identity may serve many purposes such as an opportunity for self-expression and not just as a protection strategy. The participants’ narratives also revealed that their work identity, which is empowered and autonomous, enhances their true selves outside of their workplace.
Conclusions: The above findings could challenge common societal interpretations of sex workers as victims. Further research is suggested focusing on the self-expression aspect of sex work, which appears to be a growing phenomenon.
The role of training and skills for the clinical team (Fertility Midwives/ Nurses) in Medically Assisted Reproduction Units (M.A.R.U.)
Authors: Gaitanou Konstantina
Published: July 2024

No abstract available
Genetic characterization, age and reproductive status of dwarf sperm whales (Kogia sima) stranded along the Italian coastlines
Authors: MAIO NICOLA , FIORAVANTI TATIANA , LATINI LUCREZIA , PETRACCIOLI AGNESE , MEZZASALMA MARCELLO , INSACCO GIANNI , SPLENDIANI ANDREA , POLLARO FRANCESCO , GUARINO FABIO MARIA , CAPUTO BARUCCHI VINCENZO
Published: July 2024

The knowledge of the life history traits of cetaceans, especially in the case of species that are difficult to observe in the wild, often benefits from the study of stranded individuals. The dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima) is a vagrant cetacean species in the Mediterranean Sea, which is rarely sighted in water and occasionally is found stranded along the Italian coasts. In this work, we investigated the genetics, age, and reproductive status of three dead individuals (1 male, 1 female, 1 unsexed), stranded in three different sites along Italian coastlines. We used mitochondrial DNA markers for tracing the geographical origin of the animals, tooth sectioning as a proxy for their age estimation and gonadal histology for evaluating their reproductive status. Genetic analyses revealed that the male and the female are K. sima belonging to the Atlantic clade (A clade). The female, with a total body length (TBL) of 1.95 m, had an estimated age of 12 years, and ovaries with one corpus luteum. The male, with a TBL of 2.07 m, had testicles in late spermatogenesis and an estimated age of 22-24 years. From the unsexed individual, which had an estimated age of at least 20 years, no gonadal samples were obtained as it was stranded as a skeleton. Our findings will contribute to increase the knowledge of some unexplored provenance and life-history traits of K. sima visiting the Mediterranean.
Katalog pieczęci proboszczów śląskich kościołów parafialnych do 1419 roku
Authors: Sobel Jagna Rita
Published: July 2024

Jednym z głównych zadań sfragistyki jako nauki pomocniczej historii jest niewątpliwie inwentaryzacja i publikacja zabytków sfragistycznych celem dostarczenia materiału źródłowego do dalszych studiów. Realizacją tego zadania jest prezentowany katalog pieczęci proboszczów kościołów parafialnych na Śląsku w okresie przedhusyckim. Obejmuje on 77 zabytków z lat 1228-1419. Wyszczególniono w nim informacje m.in. na temat ich zachowanych odcisków, tekstu legendy, wyobrażenia napieczętnego, elementów formalnych czy bibliografii. Opisy katalogowe zawierają również komentarz na temat interpretacji pieczęci oraz jej dysponenta, a także wysokiej jakości fotografię najlepiej zachowanego odcisku. Książka prezentuje materiał niepoddawany dotąd szerszym badaniom i niewątpliwie przyczyni się do dalszych studiów nad sfragistyką kleru parafialnego na średniowiecznym Śląsku.
Dealership or Marketplace with Fulfillment Services: A Dynamic Comparison
Authors: Li Guokai , Chen Ningyuan , Gallego Guillermo , Gao Pin , Kou Steven
Published: July 2024

Problem definition: We consider two business models for a two-sided economy under uncertainty: dealership and marketplace with fulfillment services. Although both business models can bridge the gap between demand and supply, it is not clear which model is better for the firm or for the consumers. Methodology/results: We show that, whereas the two models differ substantially in pricing power, inventory risk, fee structure, and fulfillment time, both models share several important features with the revenues earned by the firm from the two models converging when the markets are thick. We also show that, for thick markets, there is a one-to-one mapping between their corresponding optimal policies. Managerial implications: Our results provide guidelines for firms entering two-sided markets: when the market is thick, the two business models are similar; when the market is thin, they should carefully inspect a number of market conditions before making the choice.

Funding: The research of G. Li is partially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 72150002, 72394361] and the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Mathematical Foundations for Artificial Intelligence [Grant 2023B1212010001]. The research of N. Chen is partially supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Discovery [Grant RGPIN-2020-04038]. The research of G. Gallego is partially supported by Collaborative Research Funding Hong Kong [Grant C6032-21G]. The research of P. Gao is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 72201234, 72192805], Collaborative Research Funding Hong Kong [Grant C6032-21G], and the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Mathematical Foundations for Artificial Intelligence [Grant 2023B1212010001].

Supplemental Material: The online supplement is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2022.0253 .
Three views on EYFS reforms
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: July 2024

Experts assess the impact of latest changes to the early years foundation stage framework
Support for transgender pupils
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: July 2024

Draft guidance on supporting transgender pupils splits opinion among educators and campaigners
Impact of parenting styles on preschoolers’ behaviors
Authors: Sarac Elif
Published: July 2024

In this editorial, I comment on the article “Association of preschool children behavior and emotional problems with the parenting behavior of both parents” which was published in the latest issue of “World Journal of Clinical Cases ” that demonstrates the prevalence of behavioral disorders in preschool children. Therefore I am focused on parenting which is the most effective factor shown to affect the development and continuity of these behaviors. The management of child behavior problems is crucial. Children in early ages, especially preschoolers who are in the first 5 years of life, are influenced by dramatic changes in various aspects of development, such as social, emotional, and physical. Also, children experience many changes linked to different developmental tasks, such as discovering themselves, getting new friendships, and adapting to a new environment. In this period, parents have a critical role in supporting child development. If parents do not manage and overcome their child’s misbehavior, it could be transformed into psychosocial problems in adulthood. Parenting is the most powerful predictor in the social development of preschool children. Several studies have shown that to reduce the child’s emotional and behavioral problems, a warm relationship between parents and children is needed. In addition, recent studies have demonstrated significant relationships between family regulation factors and parenting, as well as with child behaviors.
Application of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis and treatment of Kawasaki disease
Authors: Pan Yan , Jiao Fu-Yong
Published: July 2024

This editorial provides commentary on an article titled "Potential and limitations of ChatGPT and generative artificial intelligence (AI) in medical safety education" recently published in the World Journal of Clinical Cases . AI has enormous potential for various applications in the field of Kawasaki disease (KD). One is machine learning (ML) to assist in the diagnosis of KD, and clinical prediction models have been constructed worldwide using ML; the second is using a gene signal calculation toolbox to identify KD, which can be used to monitor key clinical features and laboratory parameters of disease severity; and the third is using deep learning (DL) to assist in cardiac ultrasound detection. The performance of the DL algorithm is similar to that of experienced cardiac experts in detecting coronary artery lesions to promoting the diagnosis of KD. To effectively utilize AI in the diagnosis and treatment process of KD, it is crucial to improve the accuracy of AI decision-making using more medical data, while addressing issues related to patient personal information protection and AI decision-making responsibility. AI progress is expected to provide patients with accurate and effective medical services that will positively impact the diagnosis and treatment of KD in the future.
Enhanced antibiofilm potential of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound combined with 0.35% povidone-iodine in a rat model of periprosthetic joint infection
Authors: Wang Tianxing , Yang Chenchen , Li Guoqing , Wang Yang , Ji Baochao , Chen Yongjie , Zhou Haikang , Cao Li
Published: July 2024

Aims

Although low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) combined with disinfectants has been shown to effectively eliminate portions of biofilm in vitro, its efficacy in vivo remains uncertain. Our objective was to assess the antibiofilm potential and safety of LIPUS combined with 0.35% povidone-iodine (PI) in a rat debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) model of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).

Methods

A total of 56 male Sprague-Dawley rats were established in acute PJI models by intra-articular injection of bacteria. The rats were divided into four groups: a Control group, a 0.35% PI group, a LIPUS and saline group, and a LIPUS and 0.35% PI group. All rats underwent DAIR, except for Control, which underwent a sham procedure. General status, serum biochemical markers, weightbearing analysis, radiographs, micro-CT analysis, scanning electron microscopy of the prostheses, microbiological analysis, macroscope, and histopathology evaluation were performed 14 days after DAIR.

Results

The group with LIPUS and 0.35% PI exhibited decreased levels of serum biochemical markers, improved weightbearing scores, reduced reactive bone changes, absence of viable bacteria, and decreased inflammation compared to the Control group. Despite the greater antibiofilm activity observed in the PI group compared to the LIPUS and saline group, none of the monotherapies were successful in preventing reactive bone changes or eliminating the infection.

Conclusion

In the rat model of PJI treated with DAIR, LIPUS combined with 0.35% PI demonstrated stronger antibiofilm potential than monotherapy, without impairing any local soft-tissue.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(7):332–341.
Cost-effectiveness of a two-layer compression bandage versus standard bandage following total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Ronaldson Sarah J. , Cook Elizabeth , Mitchell Alex , Fairhurst Caroline M. , Reed Mike , Martin Belén C. , Torgerson David J.
Published: July 2024

Aims

To assess the cost-effectiveness of a two-layer compression bandage versus a standard wool and crepe bandage following total knee arthroplasty, using patient-level data from the Knee Replacement Bandage Study (KReBS).

Methods

A cost-utility analysis was undertaken alongside KReBS, a pragmatic, two-arm, open label, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial, in terms of the cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY). Overall, 2,330 participants scheduled for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were randomized to either a two-layer compression bandage or a standard wool and crepe bandage. Costs were estimated over a 12-month period from the UK NHS perspective, and health outcomes were reported as QALYs based on participants’ EuroQol five-dimesion five-level questionnaire responses. Multiple imputation was used to deal with missing data and sensitivity analyses included a complete case analysis and testing of costing assumptions, with a secondary analysis exploring the inclusion of productivity losses.

Results

The base case analysis found participants in the compression bandage group accrued marginally fewer QALYs, on average, compared with those in the standard bandage group (reduction of 0.0050 QALYs (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.0051 to -0.0049)), and accumulated additional mean costs (incremental cost of £52.68 per participant (95% CI 50.56 to 54.80)). Findings remained robust to assumptions tested in sensitivity analyses, although considerable uncertainty surrounded the outcome estimates.

Conclusion

Use of a two-layer compression bandage is marginally less effective in terms of health-related quality of life, and more expensive when compared with a standard bandage following TKA, so therefore is unlikely to provide a cost-effective option.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(7):550–559.
Ultrabroadband invisibility cloaking design of a concentric multilayered cylindrical metamaterial
Authors: Momose Tomoya , Toma Mana , Kajikawa Kotaro
Published: July 2024

An ultrabroadband invisibility cloak is designed using a genetic algorithm (GA) for a cylindrical target with an infinite length. The cloaking band is 0.4 to 0.7µm, covering almost the entire visible light range. The invisibility cloaking medium consists of concentric multilayered cylindrical metamaterials (CM). When the cloaking target is covered with a well-designed 26+ layer CM, the average scattering cross-section is 6% or less of the uncloaked target’s cross-section. The cloaking performance of the structure designed by the GA was superior to that designed by analytical calculations based on a combination of the transformation optics and the effective medium approximation. The cloaking is confirmed through the time variation of the magnetic fields calculated using the finite-difference time-domain method. In addition, the mechanism of the cloaking is discussed.
Agar-made biodegradable ball lens
Authors: Rosa Lidia , de Morais Eduarda , Cordeiro Cristiano , Fujiwara Eric
Published: July 2024

This work proposes the fabrication and characterization of ball lenses made of agar, a biodegradable and renewable material. Pouring a boiled solution of food-grade agar, glycerol, and water into cooled vegetable oil under agitation by a magnetic stirrer produces transparent and manipulable spheres. The glycerol concentration and rotation speed define the refractive index and size distribution, respectively, yielding lenses with diameters between 1 and 8 mm and indices ranging from 1.33 to 1.46. Experiments also characterized the output beam profile with 632 nm laser illumination. The results corroborate with the focal length simulated for a Gaussian beam model, suggesting controllable optical properties and anticipating potential applications of the agar ball lens as a biodegradable optical device for biomedical imaging, illumination, and sensing.
Modeling the impact of neuromorphological alterations in Down syndrome on fast neural oscillations
Authors: Clusella Pau , Manubens-Gil Linus , Garcia-Ojalvo Jordi , Dierssen Mara
Published: July 2024

Cognitive disorders, including Down syndrome (DS), present significant morphological alterations in neuron architectural complexity. However, the relationship between neuromorphological alterations and impaired brain function is not fully understood. To address this gap, we propose a novel computational model that accounts for the observed cell deformations in DS. The model consists of a cross-sectional layer of the mouse motor cortex, composed of 3000 neurons. The network connectivity is obtained by accounting explicitly for two single-neuron morphological parameters: the mean dendritic tree radius and the spine density in excitatory pyramidal cells. We obtained these values by fitting reconstructed neuron data corresponding to three mouse models: wild-type (WT), transgenic (TgDyrk1A), and trisomic (Ts65Dn). Our findings reveal a dynamic interplay between pyramidal and fast-spiking interneurons leading to the emergence of gamma activity (∼40 Hz). In the DS models this gamma activity is diminished, corroborating experimental observations and validating our computational methodology. We further explore the impact of disrupted excitation-inhibition balance by mimicking the reduction recurrent inhibition present in DS. In this case, gamma power exhibits variable responses as a function of the external input to the network. Finally, we perform a numerical exploration of the morphological parameter space, unveiling the direct influence of each structural parameter on gamma frequency and power. Our research demonstrates a clear link between changes in morphology and the disruption of gamma oscillations in DS. This work underscores the potential of computational modeling to elucidate the relationship between neuron architecture and brain function, and ultimately improve our understanding of cognitive disorders.
Therapeutic itineraries of snakebite victims and antivenom access in southern Mexico
Authors: Vasquez Chloe , Neri Castro Edgar , Carter Eric D.
Published: July 2024

Access to antivenoms in cases of snakebite continues to be an important public health issue around the world, especially in rural areas with poorly developed health care systems. This study aims to evaluate therapeutic itineraries and antivenom accessibility following snakebites in the states of Oaxaca and Chiapas in southern Mexico. Employing an intercultural health approach that seeks to understand and bridge allopathic and traditional medical perceptions and practices, we conducted field interviews with 47 snakebite victims, documenting the therapeutic itineraries of 54 separate snakebite incidents that occurred between 1977 and 2023. Most victims used traditional remedies as a first line of treatment, often to withstand the rigors of a long journey to find antivenoms. The main obstacles to antivenom access were distance, poor antivenom availability, and cost. Standard antivenom treatment is highly valued and sought after, even as traditional beliefs and practices persist within a cultural framework known as the "hot-cold" system. The findings are crucial for informing future enhancements to antivenom distribution systems, health education initiatives, and other interventions aimed at mitigating the impact of snakebites in the region.
Predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptability among refugees and other migrant populations: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Yazdani Yasaman , Pai Poojitha , Sayfi Shahab , Mohammadi Arash , Perdes Saber , Spitzer Denise , Fabreau Gabriel E. , Pottie Kevin
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aimed to map the existing literature to identify predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptability among refugees, immigrants, and other migrant populations.

Methods

A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Scopus, APA PsycInfo and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) was conducted up to 31 January 2023 to identify the relevant English peer-reviewed observational studies. Two independent reviewers screened abstracts, selected studies, and extracted data.

Results

We identified 34 cross-sectional studies, primarily conducted in high income countries (76%). Lower vaccine acceptance was associated with mistrust in the host countries’ government and healthcare system, concerns about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines, limited knowledge of COVID-19 infection and vaccines, lower COVID-19 risk perception, and lower integration level in the host country. Female gender, younger age, lower education level, and being single were associated with lower vaccine acceptance in most studies. Additionally, sources of information about COVID-19 and vaccines and previous history of COVID-19 infection, also influence vaccine acceptance. Vaccine acceptability towards COVID-19 booster doses and various vaccine brands were not adequately studied.

Conclusions

Vaccine hesitancy and a lack of trust in COVID-19 vaccines have become significant public health concerns within migrant populations. These findings may help in providing information for current and future vaccine outreach strategies among migrant populations.
Developing and evaluating a brief, socially primed video intervention to enable bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A randomised control trial
Authors: Skelton Jean , Templeton Anne , Dang Guay Jennifer , MacInnes Lisa , Clegg Gareth
Published: July 2024

Background

Over 30,000 people experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the United Kingdom annually, with only 7–8% of patients surviving. One of the most effective methods of improving survival outcomes is bystander intervention in the form of calling the emergency services and initiating chest compressions. Additionally, the public must feel empowered to act and use this knowledge in an emergency. This study aimed to evaluate an ultra-brief CPR familiarisation video that uses empowering social priming language to frame CPR as a norm in Scotland.

Methods

In a randomised control trial, participants (n = 86) were assigned to view an ultra-brief CPR video intervention or a traditional long-form CPR video intervention. Following completion of a pre-intervention questionnaire examining demographic variables and prior CPR knowledge, participants completed an emergency services-led resuscitation simulation in a portable simulation suite using a CPR manikin that measures resuscitation quality. Participants then completed questionnaires examining social identity and attitudes towards performing CPR.

Results

During the simulated resuscitation, the ultra-brief intervention group’s cumulative time spent performing chest compressions was significantly higher than that observed in the long-form intervention group. The long-form intervention group’s average compressions per minute rate was significantly higher than the ultra-brief intervention group, however both scores fell within a clinically acceptable range. No other differences were observed in CPR quality. Regarding the social identity measures, participants in the ultra-brief condition had greater feelings of expected emergency support from other Scottish people when compared to long-form intervention participants. There were no significant group differences in attitudes towards performing CPR.

Conclusions

Socially primed, ultra-brief CPR interventions hold promise as a method of equipping the public with basic resuscitation skills and empowering the viewer to intervene in an emergency. These interventions may be an effective avenue for equipping at-risk groups with resuscitation skills and for supplementing traditional resuscitation training.
Performance of immunological assays for universal and differential diagnosis of HTLV-1/2 infection in candidates for blood donations from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Santos Felipe Araujo , Catão Cláudio Lucas Santos , Martins Júlia Pereira , Pessoa Uzamôr Henrique Soares , Sousa Isabelle Vasconcelos , Melo Jean Silva , Souza Gláucia Lima , Araújo Nilberto Dias , Magalhães-Gama Fábio , Abrahim Cláudia Maria de Moura , Mourão Emmily Myrella Vasconcelos , Peruhype-Magalhães Vanessa , Coelho-dos-Reis Jordana Grazziela Alves , Teixeira-Carvalho Andréa , Vallinoto Antonio Carlos Rosário , Pontes Gemilson Soares , Araújo Márcio Sobreira Silva , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis , Costa Allyson Guimarães
Published: July 2024

The present study compares the ability of distinct immunological assays (chemiluminescence immunoassay-CLIA, western blot-WB and flow cytometry-FC-Simplex and Duplex) to detect anti-HTLV (human T-lymphotropic virus) antibodies in candidates for blood donations at the Amazonas State Blood Center (Brazil) between January 2018 and December 2022. Overall, 257,942 samples from candidates for blood donations were screened using CLIA, which led to 0.15% seropositivity for HTLV (409 samples). A total of 151 candidates for blood donations were enrolled for retesting with CLIA followed by additional testing using WB and FC-Simplex and Duplex analysis. Our results demonstrated that 62% (93/151), 20% (30/151) and 17% (26/151) of the samples presented positive results with retesting using CLIA, WB and FC-Simplex analysis, respectively. Additional analysis of the CLIA, WB and FC-Simplex results revealed an overall agreement of 56% for CLIA and WB (22 co-negative; 30 co-positive samples), 48% for CLIA and FC-Simplex (21 co-negative; 24 co-positive samples) and 80% for WB and FC-Simplex (51 co-negative; 23 co-positive samples). Considering the WB as the reference standard for the diagnosis of infection with HTLV-1/2, we observed that the CLIA results of ≤3.0 RLU and >10.0 RLU in the retest can be used define a negative or positive result, respectively, and could be used as new specific cut-off values. The overall agreement between WB and FC-Duplex for accomplishing the differential diagnosis was evaluated and demonstrated 100% correspondence for the diagnosis of HTLV-1 (15/15) and HTLV-2 (7/7). Our findings demonstrate that gaps in the diagnosis of infection with HTLV-1/2 could be overcome by the simultaneous use of distinct immunological assays during retesting of candidates for blood donations.
Exploring the effects of methodological choices on the estimation and biological interpretation of life history parameters for harbour porpoises in Norway and beyond
Authors: Frie Anne Kirstine , Lindström Ulf
Published: July 2024

This study investigates effects of subtle methodological choices on the estimation and biological interpretation of age, growth and reproductive parameters for harbour porpoises. The core analyses are based on a focal Norwegian data set built on samples from 134 harbour porpoises caught incidentally in gillnet fisheries along the Norwegian coast during autumn 2016 and spring 2017. Two contrasting practices for interpretation of seasonal and ontogenetic characteristics of tooth growth layer formation resulted in significant age differences among spring samples of young porpoises and for older animals across seasons. In turn, these differences affected estimates of age at maturity and asymptotic lengths, respectively. We also found significant differences in male age at maturity between two well-documented maturity criteria and between mathematical estimators of age at maturity for both sexes. Two different criteria for corpus albicans classification furthermore resulted in different patterns of ovarian corpora accumulation, which may affect some estimates of fecundity rates and contaminant loads. Both corpora accumulation patterns were also found in reanalysed data from German and Greenlandic porpoises. Based on tabulated overviews of methodological choices made in previous harbour porpoise studies, we argue that several of the issues mentioned above have wider relevance and may affect the validity of meta-analyses as a tool for estimating harbour porpoise sensitivity to extrinsic pressures. Differences in cause of death (COD) composition between data sets can have a similar effect. We demonstrate this in a meta-analysis of published harbour porpoise pregnancy rates, showing significantly higher values for trauma-killed samples compared to samples comprising mixed COD categories. COD also affected the estimated impacts of three previously analysed extrinsic predictors as well as an added predictor for vessel noise levels. We discuss the potential contributions of methodological, biological and anthropogenic factors in shaping observed regional differences in estimates of harbour porpoise life history parameters.
Evaluating soluble Axl as a biomarker for glioblastoma: A pilot study
Authors: Raymond Daniel , Fukui Melanie , Zwernik Samuel , Kassam Amin , Rovin Richard , Akhtar Parvez
Published: July 2024

With current imaging, discriminating tumor progression from treatment effect following immunotherapy or oncolytic virotherapy of glioblastoma (GBM) is challenging. A blood based diagnostic biomarker would therefore be helpful. Axl is a receptor tyrosine kinase that is highly expressed by many cancers including GBM. Axl expression is regulated through enzymatic cleavage of its extracellular domain. The resulting fragment can be detected in serum as soluble Axl (sAxl). sAxl levels can distinguish patients with melanoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma from healthy controls. This is a pilot study to determine if sAxl is a candidate biomarker for GBM. The sAxl levels in the serum of 40 healthy volunteers and 20 GBM patients were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pre- and post- operative sAxl levels were obtained. Volumetric MRI evaluation provided GBM tumor volume metrics. There was no significant difference in the sAxl levels of the volunteers (30.16±1.88 ng/ml) and GBM patients (30.74±1.96 ng/ml) p = 0.27. The postoperative sAxl levels were significantly higher than preoperative levels (32.32±2.26 ng/ml vs 30.74±1.96 ng/ml, p = 0.03). We found no correlation between tumor volume and sAxl levels. Axl expression was low or absent in 6 of 11 (55%) patient derived GBM cell lines. Given the wide range of Axl expression by GBM tumors, sAxl may not be a reliable indicator of GBM. However, given the small sample size in this study, a larger study may be considered.
Association of remoteness and ethnicity with major amputation following minor amputation to treat diabetes-related foot disease
Authors: Alahakoon Chanika , Thanigaimani Shivshankar , Singh Tejas P. , Drovandi Aaron , Charles James , Fernando Malindu , Lazzarini Peter A. , Moxon Joseph V. , Golledge Jonathan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Minor amputation is commonly needed to treat diabetes-related foot disease (DFD). Remoteness of residence is known to limit access to healthcare and has previously been associated with poor outcomes. The primary aim of this study was to examine the associations between ethnicity and remoteness of residency with the risk of major amputation and death following initial treatment of DFD by minor amputation. A secondary aim was to identify risk factors for major amputation and death following minor amputation to treat DFD.

Research design and methods

This was a retrospective analysis of data from patients who required a minor amputation to treat DFD between 2000 and 2019 at a regional tertiary hospital in Queensland, Australia. Baseline characteristics were collected together with remoteness of residence and ethnicity. Remoteness was classified according to the 2019 Modified Monash Model (MMM) system. Ethnicity was based on self-identification as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander or non-Indigenous person. The outcomes of major amputation, repeat minor amputation and death were examined using Cox-proportional hazard analyses.

Results

A total of 534 participants were included, with 306 (57.3%) residing in metropolitan or regional centres, 228 (42.7%) in rural and remote communities and 144 (27.0%) were Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people. During a median (inter quartile range) follow-up of 4.0 (2.1–7.6) years, 103 participants (19.3%) had major amputation, 230 (43.1%) had repeat minor amputation and 250 (46.8%) died. The risks (hazard ratio [95% CI]) of major amputation and death were not significantly higher in participants residing in rural and remote areas (0.97, 0.67–1.47; and 0.98, 0.76–1.26) or in Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people (HR 1.44, 95% CI 0.96, 2.16 and HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.67, 1.18). Ischemic heart disease (IHD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), osteomyelitis and foot ulceration (p<0.001 in all instances) were independent risk factors for major amputation.

Conclusion

Major amputation and death are common following minor amputation to treat DFD and people with IHD, PAD and osteomyelitis have an increased risk of major amputation. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People and residents of remote areas were not at excess risk of major amputation.
Multimodal prehabilitation (Fit4Surgery) in high-impact surgery to enhance surgical outcomes: Study protocol of F4S PREHAB, a single center stepped wedge trial
Authors: Strijker Dieuwke , Drager Luuk , van Asseldonk Monique , Atsma Femke , van den Berg Manon , van Daal Elke , van Heusden-Scholtalbers Linda , Meijerink Jeroen , Servaes Petra , Teerenstra Steven , Verlaan Sjors , van den Heuvel Baukje , van Laarhoven Kees
Published: July 2024

Background

High-impact surgery imposes a significant physiological and functional burden and is associated with substantial postoperative morbidity. Multimodal prehabilitation has demonstrated a reduction in postoperative complications and enhanced functional recovery, mainly in abdominal cancer surgery. Common preoperative risk factors shared among patients undergoing high-impact surgery, extending beyond abdominal cancer surgery procedures, suggest the relevance of multimodal prehabilitation to a broader patient population. This stepped wedge trial primarily aims to examine the hospital-wide effect of multimodal prehabilitation, compared to standard preoperative care, on the occurrence and severity of postoperative complications. Secondary and tertiary endpoints include length of hospital stay, physical fitness, nutritional status, mental health, intoxications, and cost-effectiveness of the intervention.

Methods

The Fit4Surgery (F4S) PREHAB trial is a monocenter stepped wedge trial in an academic hospital. Adult patients, divided into 20 health clusters based on specific diagnoses, will be assessed for eligibility and receive usual preoperative care or multimodal prehabilitation. Patient enrollment commenced in March 2021 and continues up to and including April 2024. The intervention consists of a high-intensity exercise program, a nutritional intervention, psychological support, and smoking and alcohol cessation. The primary outcome will be measured by the Clavien-Dindo classification (grade II or higher) and the Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI).

Discussion

Multimodal prehabilitation potentially reduces postoperative complications and enhances functional recovery. This is the first study to determine the hospital-wide effect and cost-effectiveness of multimodal prehabilitation in patients across various surgical specialties.
Newborn screening analytes and structural birth defects among 27,000 newborns
Authors: Lupo Philip J. , Archer Natalie P. , Harris Rachel D. , Marengo Lisa K. , Schraw Jeremy M. , Hoyt Adrienne T. , Tanksley Susan , Lee Rachel , Drummond-Borg Margaret , Freedenberg Debra , Shetty Priya B. , Agopian A. J. , Shumate Charles , Rasmussen Sonja A. , Langlois Peter H. , Canfield Mark A.
Published: July 2024

Background

Emerging evidence suggests newborn screening analytes may yield insights into the etiologies of birth defects, yet no effort has evaluated associations between a range of newborn screening analytes and birth defects.

Methods

This population-based study pooled statewide data on birth defects, birth certificates, and newborn screening analytes from Texas occurring between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2009. Associations between a panel of thirty-six newborn screening analytes, collected by the statewide Texas Newborn Screening Program, and the presence of a birth defect, defined as at least one of 39 birth defects diagnoses recorded by the Texas Birth Defects Registry, were assessed using regression analysis.

Findings

Of the 27,643 births identified, 20,205 had at least one of the 39 birth defects of interest (cases) as identified by the Texas Birth Defects Registry, while 7,438 did not have a birth defect (controls). Among 1,404 analyte-birth defect associations evaluated, 377 were significant in replication analysis. Analytes most consistently associated with birth defects included the phenylalanine/tyrosine ratio (N = 29 birth defects), tyrosine (N = 28 birth defects), and thyroxine (N = 25 birth defects). Birth defects most frequently associated with a range of analytes included gastroschisis (N = 29 analytes), several cardiovascular defects (N = 26 analytes), and spina bifida (N = 23 analytes).

Conclusions

Several significant and novel associations were observed between newborn screening analytes and birth defects. While some findings could be consequences of the defects themselves or to the care provided to infants with these defects, these findings could help to elucidate mechanisms underlying the etiology of some birth defects.
Analysis of AlphaFold and molecular dynamics structure predictions of mutations in serpins
Authors: Garrido-Rodríguez Pedro , Carmena-Bargueño Miguel , de la Morena-Barrio María Eugenia , Bravo-Pérez Carlos , de la Morena-Barrio Belén , Cifuentes-Riquelme Rosa , Lozano María Luisa , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio , Corral Javier
Published: July 2024

Serine protease inhibitors (serpins) include thousands of structurally conserved proteins playing key roles in many organisms. Mutations affecting serpins may disturb their conformation, leading to inactive forms. Unfortunately, conformational consequences of serpin mutations are difficult to predict. In this study, we integrate experimental data of patients with mutations affecting one serpin with the predictions obtained by AlphaFold and molecular dynamics. Five SERPINC1 mutations causing antithrombin deficiency, the strongest congenital thrombophilia were selected from a cohort of 350 unrelated patients based on functional, biochemical, and crystallographic evidence supporting a folding defect. AlphaFold gave an accurate prediction for the wild-type structure. However, it also produced native structures for all variants, regardless of complexity or conformational consequences in vivo. Similarly, molecular dynamics of up to 1000 ns at temperatures causing conformational transitions did not show significant changes in the native structure of wild-type and variants. In conclusion, AlphaFold and molecular dynamics force predictions into the native conformation at conditions with experimental evidence supporting a conformational change to other structures. It is necessary to improve predictive strategies for serpins that consider the conformational sensitivity of these molecules.
Gold nanoparticle-enhanced radiotherapy: Dependence of the macroscopic dose enhancement on the microscopic localization of the nanoparticles within the tumor vasculature
Authors: Díaz-Galindo C. A. , Garnica-Garza H. M.
Published: July 2024

In gold nanoparticle-enhanced radiotherapy, intravenously administered nanoparticles tend to accumulate in the tumor tissue by means of the so-called permeability and retention effect and upon irradiation with x-rays, the nanoparticles release a secondary electron field that increases the absorbed dose that would otherwise be obtained from the interaction of the x-rays with tissue alone. The concentration of the nanoparticles in the tumor, number of nanoparticles per unit of mass, which determines the total absorbed dose imparted, can be measured via magnetic resonance or computed tomography images, usually with a resolution of several millimeters. Using a tumor vasculature model with a resolution of 500 nm, we show that for a given concentration of nanoparticles, the dose enhancement that occurs upon irradiation with x-rays greatly depends on whether the nanoparticles are confined to the tumor vasculature or have already extravasated into the surrounding tumor tissue. We show that, compared to the reference irradiation with no nanoparticles present in the tumor model, irradiation with the nanoparticles confined to the tumor vasculature, either in the bloodstream or attached to the inner blood vessel walls, results in a two to three-fold increase in the absorbed dose to the whole tumor model, with respect to an irradiation when the nanoparticles have already extravasated into the tumor tissue. Therefore, it is not enough to measure the concentration of the nanoparticles in a tumor, but the location of the nanoparticles within each volume element of a tumor, be it inside the vasculature or the tumor tissue, needs to be determined as well if an accurate estimation of the resultant absorbed dose distribution, a key element in the success of a radiotherapy treatment, is to be made.