bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic characterization of NK cells in 5-year-old children exposed to maternal HIV and antiretroviral therapy in early-life
Authors: Mataramvura Hope , Jӓger Julia , Jordan-Paiz Ana , Mazengera Lovemore Ronald , Gumbo Felicity Zvanyadza , Bunders Madeleine J. , Duri Kerina
Published: December 2024

Background

HIV-exposed uninfected (HEU) children are at increased risk of morbidity during the first years of life. Although the immune responses of HEU infants in early-life are relatively well described, studies of natural killer (NK) cells in older HEU children are lacking. NK cell subsets were analysed in HEU children and compared to those in HIV unexposed uninfected (HUU) children aged ~ five years.

Methods

Multi-parametric flow cytometry was used to characterize peripheral blood-derived NK cell CD56, CD16, CD57, NKG2A and KIR3DL1/KIR2DL2/L3 expression, including intracellular perforin and granzyme B. NK cell subsets were compared between HEU children exposed to prenatal antiretroviral therapy (ART) from conception [long-term (HEULT)]; those exposed to ART during pregnancy [medium-term (HEUMT)] with continued exposure throughout the breastfeeding period and HUU peers. Furthermore, clinical data of the children, including sick clinic visits and hospitalizations documented in morbidity diaries from birth to 5 years were compared between HEU and HUU groups. Frequencies of CD56bright and CD56dim NK cell were correlated with these clinical parameters.

Results

139 children were enrolled however, 133 comprising 43 HEULT, 38 HEUMT and 52 HUU were included in the main analyses. Total NK cell, CD56bright nor CD56dim NK cell proportions differed between HEU and HUU children. However, HEULT children had lower frequencies of CD56dim NK cells compared to HEUMT children, (p = 0.002) which maintained significance after controlling for preterm birth, p = 0.012. No differences were observed between HEULT and HUU. The expressions of NKG2A, KIR3DL1/KIR2DL2/L3 and CD57 on CD56bright and CD56dim NK cells were similar between the three groups. Furthermore, the frequencies of granzyme B and perforin double positive NK cells were similar between the HUU with HEULT and HEUMT children. CD56dim NK cell counts had a significant moderate negative correlation with recurrent respiratory infections (rho=-0.38; p = 0.010) in HUU children and negatively correlated with total sick clinic visits in HEUMT (rho=-0.40, p = 0.064).

Conclusion

The proportions of total NK cell, CD56bright and CD56dim NK cells, NK cells inhibitory and differentiation surface marker expression and cytolytic granule-positive cells were similar between HEU and HUU children. These data suggest that early-life HIV/ART exposure may not result in major changes in NK cell subsets at 5 years of age.
Intracardiac fluid dynamic analysis: available techniques and novel clinical applications
Authors: Leo Isabella , Cersosimo Angelica , Ielapi Jessica , Sabatino Jolanda , Sicilia Federico , Strangio Antonio , Figliozzi Stefano , Torella Daniele , De Rosa Salvatore
Published: December 2024

There is a growing interest in the potential use of intracardiac fluid dynamic analysis to better understand cardiac mechanics and identify novel imaging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. Abnormalities of vortex formation and shape may in fact play a critical role in cardiac function, affecting both efficiency and myocardial workload. Recent advances in imaging technologies have significantly improved our ability to analyze these dynamic flow patterns in vivo, offering new insights into both normal and pathological cardiac conditions. This review will provide a comprehensive overview of the available imaging techniques for intracardiac fluid dynamics analysis, highlighting their strengths and limitations. By synthesizing the current knowledge in this evolving field, the paper aims to underscore the importance of advanced fluid dynamic analysis in contemporary cardiology and to identify future directions for research and clinical practice.
Addressing “what matters most” to reduce mental health stigma in primary healthcare settings: a qualitative study in Lebanon
Authors: Hana Racha Abi , Heim Eva , Cuijpers Pim , Sijbrandij Marit , Chammay Rabih El , Kohrt Brandon A.
Published: December 2024

Background

“What matters most” (WMM) is a theoretical framework based on medical anthropology and draws on cultural concepts of values and morals. It has been employed to identify cross-cultural aspects of mental health stigma. This approach assists practitioners, advocates, and researchers in assessing stigma-related factors that are relevant to the experiences of individuals in diverse cultural contexts. To implement effective anti-stigma programmes it is vital to identify and prioritize WMM for primary healthcare providers and people with lived experience of mental health conditions (PWLE). Our current objective was to explore WMM to primary healthcare providers, PWLE, primary care managers, and policymakers in Lebanon to inform mental health stigma reduction initiatives.

Methods

We conducted a total of 45 qualitative interviews with primary healthcare providers, PWLE, primary care managers, and policymakers. The WMM framework was applied to analyse data from primary healthcare centres in Lebanon to identify themes related to stigma against PWLE. The analysis identified common themes related to WMM. The analysis aimed to identify (a) WMM values for participants, (b) factors that threaten these WMM values and their relationship to stigma, and (c) potential interventions that could leverage WMM principles to reduce stigma.

Results

WMM for primary healthcare providers encompassed competency, time management, willingness, and self-care. WMM for PWLE focused on equality, support, compassion, and confidentiality. Policymakers emphasised resource sustainability as a top priority. Myths about mental health illnesses perpetuated threats to WMM, and organisational barriers also threatened WMM for primary healthcare providers and PWLE, thus creating major roadblocks to achieving stigma reduction.

Conclusion

This study identified key domains to understand the factors for WMM in reducing mental health stigma in Lebanon and explored factors that shape the values and priorities of both PWLE and primary healthcare providers. The study suggests assessing the effectiveness of anti-stigma interventions that actively engage PWLE in their design and implementation, while exploring the broader applicability of the WMM framework across different cultural and healthcare settings.
Evaluation of effect of cooled haemodialysis on cognition in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ECHECKED) feasibility randomised controlled trial results
Authors: Dasgupta Indranil , Odudu Aghogho , Baharani Jyoti , Fergusson Niall , Griffiths Helen , Harrison John , Hameed Awais , Maruff Paul , Ryan Louise , Thomas Neil , Woodhall Gavin , Tadros George
Published: December 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment is common in haemodialysis patients with no known beneficial interventions. Cooler dialysate slows brain white-matter changes, but its effect on cognition is unknown. This feasibility trial was performed to inform a fully-powered, randomised trial to assess this.

Methods

We aimed to randomise (1:1) 90 haemodialysis patients to this double-blinded, randomised controlled feasibility trial to standard care (dialysate-temperature 36.5 °C) or intervention (35 °C). Eligible patients were adult chronic haemodialysis recipients with no established diagnosis of dementia or psychiatric disease. The primary outcome was change in Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score at 12-months. Secondary outcomes included recruitment and attrition rates, reasons for non-recruitment, intradialytic hypotension, depression, patient burden, computerised cognition test battery, and quality of life.

Findings

Of 334 patients screened, 160 were eligible. 99 declined mainly for the extra non-dialysis day study visits. Sixty-one patients consented, 43 randomised – 20 in standard care, 23 in intervention arms; 13 withdrew for non-dialysis day visits and 5 without reason before randomisation. 27 patients (12 standard care, 15 intervention) completed the trial – 5 died, 1 transplanted, 4 withdrew consent, and 6 could not attend due to the pandemic. Low temperature dialysis was well tolerated. There was no difference in change in MoCA from baseline to 12 months between the standard and intervention arms; 1.0 (-2.8–3.0, p = 0.755) and − 2.0 (-1.0 - -4.0, p = 0.047) respectively. There were no differences between groups on any secondary measures. There were no significant adverse events reported.

Discussion

The trial was significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic contributing to an attrition rate of 27%. The non-dialysis day research visits were mainly responsible for low recruitment and consent withdrawal. There are several learning points, described in the article, which will inform design of definitive trials in this area in the future.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03645733. Registration date 24/08/2018.
Multiple material need insecurities and severity of psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic among women who use drugs
Authors: Tomko Catherine , Sisson Laura Nicole , Haney Katherine , Clouse Emily , Flath Natalie , Galai Noya , Smith Katherine C. , Sherman Susan G.
Published: December 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the salience of material needs and financial precarity on mental health and distress. Women who use drugs (WWUD) experienced significant mental distress and multiple material need insecurities before the pandemic. However, research is limited on the nature of these insecurities during the pandemic despite both material scarcity and mental distress placing WWUD at greater risk of drug-related harms such as overdose. We aim to characterize material need insecurities and their associations with level of mental distress among a sample of WWUD in the United States during the COVID pandemic.

Methods

N = 227 WWUD (i.e., non-medical use of opioids, crack or powdered cocaine at least three times in the past three months) were recruited in Baltimore, Maryland between August 2021-December 2022. We assessed participants’ challenges (i.e., none, minor, major challenge) in accessing five critical material needs during the pandemic: housing; food security; clean, potable water; transportation; and bathroom facilities. The number of major challenges was summed and dichotomized as minimal (0–1) challenges vs. multiple (2+) challenges. The outcome was severity of mental distress, measured by the Kessler-6 and categorized into no/mild, moderate, or severe distress based on validated cut-points. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to explore differences between mental distress severity groups.

Results

36% of the sample reported symptoms of moderate psychological distress and 39% severe distress. Nearly half (43%) reported multiple material need insecurities during COVID. Compared to those who reported minimal material need insecurities, participants with multiple insecurities were 3.25 (95% CI = 1.42–7.45) and 1.96 (95% CI = 0.97–3.95) times more likely to report severe psychological distress compared to no/mild distress or moderate distress, respectively. Unmet mental health needs increased risk of severe distress compared to no/mild 3.44 (95% CI = 1.48–7.97) or moderate 3.62 (95% CI = 1.75–7.49) distress.

Conclusions

WWUD experienced a substantial burden of multiple material needs during the pandemic which were associated with elevated levels of mental distress. Results speak to the need to advance mental health equity by addressing access to material needs and mental healthcare for marginalized populations, particularly during health emergencies that threaten already-precarious social safety nets and healthcare infrastructure.
How the master’s level is implemented in internships within master’s programmes — exploring the views of students, clinicians, and educators in midwifery and public health nursing
Authors: Kasper Jürgen , Bigum Sundar Turid Kristin , Valla Lisbeth , Lilleengen Anne Marie , Rydtun Haug Anne Grete , Engen Marsdal Kjersti , Borgen Iren , Telle Hjellset Victoria
Published: December 2024

In the course of worldwide attempts at the academisation of professional education and the Bologna process, nursing education has become both bachelor’s and master’s programmes at colleges, polytechnics, and universities.

We investigated how a master’s level in internships is conceptionalised by the involved parties. Our focus was on Norwegian master’s education programmes in two different health professions, midwifery and public health nursing.

The study also aimed at providing a better understanding of barriers and facilitators of realising the master’s level in internships.

Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour as a theoretical and methodological framework, we conducted individual in depth interviews with representatives of all involved parties (supervisors, students, university teachers, and clinic managers). After content analysing the interview data, we held focus group meetings aiming to confirm the findings from the first part of the study.

The findings reveal a controversial debate over the necessity of a master’s level education and the challenges participants reported from their attempts to implement the master’s level into student internships. The main result is the lack of consensus on the role of internships within a master’s programme and on how students, practise supervisors, and educational institutions should collaborate on this issue. Various assumptions about the roles, accountability, and professional functions of a master’s student during an internship have been distilled into five distinct models. Instead of comparing and ranking these models, their mere coexistence is discussed as an obstacle to implementing advanced nursing practise. Recommendations are provided to help resolve this confusion.
MicroRNA networks in prolactinoma tumorigenesis: a scoping review
Authors: Rad Sevil Ghaffarzadeh , Orang Fatemeh Nejadi , Shadbad Mahdi Abdoli
Published: December 2024

Background

Prolactinoma is the leading type of pituitary adenoma. Aside from the mass-like effect of prolactinoma, its hormonal effect is the main pathological cause of endocrine dysregulation and infertility. The dopamine agonist administration and surgical resection are the current mainstream anti-neoplastic treatments for affected patients; however, tumor fibrosis, tumor invasion, dopamine agonist resistance, and gain prolactinomas are clinical challenges for treating affected patients. Therefore, there is a need to develop novel treatments for these patients. Although growing evidence has highlighted the significance of dysregulated microRNA (miRNA) expression in various malignancies, no study has systematically investigated the significance of miRNA networks and their therapeutic potential in prolactinoma. For this aim, the current scoping review was performed according to the systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guideline.

Main body

The systematic study on PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase databases has shown that miR-200c, miR-217, miR-93a, miR-93, miR-1299, and miR-9 are the oncogenic miRNAs and miR-137, miR-145-5p, miR-197-3p, miR-29a-3p, miR-489, miR-199a-5p, miR-124, miR-212, miR-129-5p, miR-130a-3p, miR-326, miR-432, miR-548c-3p, miR-570, miR-15, miR-16, miR-26a, miR-196a2, and let-7a are tumor-suppressive miRNAs in prolactinoma tumorigenesis.

Conclusion

In summary, inhibiting the oncogenic miRNAs and ectopic expression of tumor-suppressive miRNAs can decrease prolactin secretion, reduce tumor invasion and migration, enhance dopamine agonist efficacy, and inhibit prolactinoma development. These findings can serve as a blueprint for future translational studies investigating miR-based therapeutics for prolactinoma.

Graphical Abstract
Cuproptosis: a promising new target for breast cancer therapy
Authors: Jiang Qianqian , Tong Fei , Xu Yun , Liu Cheng , Xu Qiaoping
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women globally, affecting approximately one-quarter of all female cancer patients and accounting for one-sixth of cancer-related deaths in women. Despite significant advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, breast cancer treatment remains challenging due to issues such as recurrence and metastasis. Recently, a novel form of regulated cell death, termed cuproptosis, has been identified. This process disrupts mitochondrial respiration by targeting the copper-dependent cellular pathways. The role of cuproptosis has been extensively investigated in various therapeutic contexts, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, and nanotherapy, with the development of novel drugs significantly improving clinical outcomes. This article aims to further elucidate the connection between cuproptosis and breast cancer, focusing on its therapeutic targets, signaling pathways, and potential biomarkers that could enhance treatment strategies. These insights may offer new opportunities for improved patient care and outcomes in breast cancer therapy.
Regulation of dynamic spatiotemporal inflammation by nanomaterials in spinal cord injury
Authors: Liu Zeping , Xiang Chunyu , Zhao Xu , Aizawa Toshimi , Niu Renrui , Zhao Jianhui , Guo Fengshuo , Li Yueying , Luo Wenqi , Liu Wanguo , Gu Rui
Published: December 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a common clinical condition of the central nervous system that can lead to sensory and motor impairment below the injury level or permanent loss of function in severe cases. Dynamic spatiotemporal neuroinflammation is vital to neurological recovery, which is collectively constituted by the dynamic changes in a series of inflammatory cells, including microglia, neutrophils, and astrocytes, among others. Immunomodulatory nanomaterials can readily improve the therapeutic effects and simultaneously overcome various drawbacks associated with treatment, such as the off-target side effects and loss of bioactivity of immune agents during circulation. In this review, we discuss the role of dynamic spatiotemporal inflammation in secondary injuries after SCI, elaborate on the mechanism of action and effect of existing nanomaterials in treating SCI, and summarize the mechanism(s) whereby they regulate inflammation. Finally, the challenges and prospects associated with using nanotechnology to modulate immunotherapy are discussed to provide new insights for future treatment. Deciphering the intricate spatiotemporal mechanisms of neuroinflammation in SCI requires further in-depth studies. Therefore, SCI continues to represent a formidable challenge.

Graphical abstract
Maternal mortality estimation methodologies: a scoping review and evaluation of suitability for use in humanitarian settings
Authors: Erhardt-Ohren Blake , McCoy Sandra I. , Feehan Dennis M. , Haar Rohini J. , Prata Ndola
Published: December 2024

Background

Around the world, a maternal death occurs approximately every two minutes—most of these deaths are preventable. The maternal mortality ratio is a key indicator for the Sustainable Development Goals, yet we have no reliable way to estimate maternal deaths in refugee or internally displaced persons (IDP) camps and settlements. The goal of this study was to understand the methodologies most suited for adaptation for use to estimate the proportion of maternal mortality due to abortion complications in these settings.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review of methodologies to estimate maternal mortality and evaluated them using a predetermined set of criteria. We evaluated nine original methodologies using eleven categories related to implementation in refugee or IDP camps and settlements: data sources, definitions, sample size, timing of point estimate relative to data collection, bias, human resources, time needed for implementation, data collection training, statistical training, digitalization, and cost. Each category could be assigned zero to four points, for a total score of 44 points. After evaluating each original methodology, we reviewed the original publication's citations or searched for other implementations through October 2022. We revised the original scores and developed a rank-order list of the methodologies according to their suitability for implementation in refugee and IDP camps.

Results

We identified 124 publications that estimated maternal mortality. The Maternal Deaths from Informants/Maternal Death Follow on Review (MADE-IN/MADE-FOR) (33.5), hospital- or facility-based (33.5), and community informant-based (32.5) methodologies ranked highest due to low costs, short time interval needed for implementation, small sample sizes and close timing of point estimate relative to data collection, easy digitalization, and the need for no statistical training.

Discussion

Similar to the lack of a “perfect” methodology to estimate maternal mortality in stable settings, there are compromises to consider when applying these methodologies to humanitarian settings. The most promising methodologies are adaptable to practical constraints in refugee and IDP camps and settlements. New methodologies that adapt and strengthen the MADE-IN/MADE-FOR, hospital- or facility-based, and community informant-based methodology show promise and must be further developed.
Quantitative 18F-FDG PET-CT can assess presence and extent of interstitial lung disease in early severe diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis
Authors: Broens Bo , Nossent Esther J. , Meijboom Lilian J. , Zwezerijnen Gerben J. C. , Spierings Julia , de Vries-Bouwstra Jeska K. , van Laar Jacob M. , van der Laken Conny J. , Voskuyl Alexandre E.
Published: December 2024

Background

This study aimed to assess the quantitative uptake of 18F-FDG PET-CT in the lungs of patients with early severe diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (SSc) with and without interstitial lung disease (ILD), compared to controls. In patients with SSc-ILD, 18F-FDG uptake was correlated to high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and pulmonary function test (PFT) parameters.

Methods

A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 15 patients with SSc-ILD, 5 patients with SSc without ILD, and 7 controls without SSc. 18F-FDG PET-CT scans were performed following standardized protocols, and quantitative analysis of tracer uptake was conducted in predefined lung regions. In addition, HRCT scans were evaluated for ILD-related radiologic abnormalities. Between-group differences were compared with non-parametric tests, while correlations with PFT parameters were analyzed using Spearman correlation coefficients.

Results

18F-FDG uptake was mainly increased in the dorsobasal lung fields of patients with SSc-ILD compared to SSc without ILD and controls (p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively). 18F-FDG uptake was higher in SSc patients with extensive ILD (≥ 20% vs < 20%, p = 0.04) and correlated with lower DLCO% (R = -0.59, p = 0.02). Ground-glass opacities, with or without reticulation, corresponded to increased 18F-FDG uptake.

Conclusions

18F-FDG PET-CT can detect metabolic activity in the lungs of patients with early severe diffuse cutaneous SSc and ILD, correlating with higher ILD extent (≥ 20%) and lower DLCO%. These results suggest the potential utility of 18F-FDG PET-CT in the early detection of ILD (progression) and aiding in risk stratification.
Integrated bioinformatic analysis of the shared molecular mechanisms between ANCA-associated vasculitis and atherosclerosis
Authors: Hu Xun , Xu Lou Inmaculada , Chen Qilan
Published: December 2024

Background and objective

Accumulated evidence supports the tendency of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis(AAV) to coexist with atherosclerosis (AS). However, the common etiology of these two diseases remains unclear. This study aims to explore the mechanisms underlying the concurrent occurrence of ANCA and AS.

Methods

Microarray data of AAV and AS were examined in a comprehensive gene expression database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differential gene expression analysis (GEO2R) were performed to identify common genes between AAV and AS. Based on the co-expressed genes, functional enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, and identification of hub genes (HGs) were conducted. Subsequently, co-expression analysis of HGs was performed, and their expression and diagnostic value were validated. We further explored immune cell infiltration and analyzed the correlation between HGs and infiltrating immune cells. Finally, the reliability of the selected pathways was verified.

Results

The results of the common gene analysis suggest that immune and inflammatory responses may be common features in the pathophysiology of AAV and AS. Through the interaction of different analysis results, we confirmed five HGs (CYBB, FCER1G, TYROBP, IL10RA, CSF1R). The CytoHubba plugin and HG validation demonstrated the reliability of the selected five HGs. Co-expression network analysis revealed that these five HGs could influence monocyte migration. Analysis of immune cell infiltration showed that monocytes in ANCA and M0 macrophages in AS constituted a higher proportion of all infiltrating immune cells, with significant differences in infiltration. We also found significant positive correlations between CYBB, FCER1G, TYROBP, IL10RA, CSF1R, and monocytes/M0 macrophages in AAV, as well as between CYBB, FCER1G, TYROBP, IL10RA, CSF1R, and M0 macrophages in AS.

Conclusion

These five HGs can promote monocyte differentiation into macrophages, leading to the concurrent occurrence of AAV and AS. Our study provides insights into the mechanisms underlying the coexistence of AAV and AS.
Primary prevention of food allergy: beyond early introduction
Authors: Chan Edmond S. , Abrams Elissa M. , Mack Douglas P , Protudjer Jennifer L.P. , Watson Wade
Published: December 2024

Food allergy typically begins early in life and persists as a lifelong condition. Delayed introduction of allergenic foods followed by years of hesitancy to introduce these foods early may have contributed to the increase in food allergy prevalence in recent decades. Most infant feeding guidelines focus on the importance of early introduction of allergenic foods in infants at around age 4–6 months. However, regular, ongoing ingestion of allergenic foods is also critical for the primary prevention of food allergy. Similarly, intermittent exposure to cow’s milk formula (CMF) in early infancy increases the risk of cow’s milk allergy (CMA), while regular exposure (if it is introduced) prevents it. Families hesitant to introduce allergenic foods to their infant at home (despite education) should be offered introduction in a primary care clinic. Infants who have failed primary prevention should be referred to an allergist for consideration of early infant oral immunotherapy (OIT).
How can effective communication help radiographers meet the expectations of patients—COMMUNICATION—a joint statement by the ESR & EFRS
Authors: Beardmore Charlotte , England Andrew , Cruwys Cheryl , Carrié Dominique ,   on behalf of the European Federation of Radiographer Societies,,   and the European Society of Radiology
Published: December 2024

The Patient Advisory Group (PAG) of the European Society of Radiology, in collaboration with the European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS), aims to highlight, in this short paper, the important role that communication plays when trying to meet patients’ expectations throughout their imaging journey in a radiology department. The interactions with radiography professionals carrying out diagnostic or interventional procedures are critical in supporting high-quality patient care and patients’ expectations. The key areas of consideration have been summarised in an easy-to-remember mnemonic: COMMUNICATION. There are different healthcare systems and medical imaging services across Europe, and healthcare providers should be mindful, when setting up new operational procedures, of the need for processes and systems to support the delivery of patient-centred care. At times when new or improved technology is being introduced, such as artificial intelligence applications, telemedicine, robotisation of interventional procedures, and digitised records, the impact on patient-radiographer communication and interactions should be considered.

Critical relevance statement

Effective communication helps radiographers meet patients’ expectations by ensuring clear explanations, reducing anxiety, fostering trust, and improving cooperation during procedures. This enhances patient satisfaction, safety, and the overall quality of care, aligning with professional standards and patient-centred healthcare.

Key Points

Patient-centred imaging services are key to meeting patients’ demands.

Radiography professionals in radiology departments and medical imaging services should always communicate effectively with patients.

This ESR-Patient Advisory Group publication attempts to summarise the key areas that should be embedded in patient communication.

The ‘COMMUNICATION’ statement can be used as a reminder to all radiography professionals to work to improve patient-radiographer interactions and provide patient-focused services.
Using computational systematic social observation to identify environmental correlates of fear of crime
Authors: Solymosi Réka , Parkinson Simon , Pődör Andrea , Khan Saad , Khan Muhammad
Published: December 2024

There is great importance in understanding whether people perceive an environment as safe or unsafe. Perceptions are influenced by the built environment, and through better understanding, design interventions can be made to improve the feeling of safety. There is a rich body of research on this topic, yet it requires a lot of manual effort. In this work, we present an approach named Computational Systematic Social Observation (CSSO) to automate the collection and analysis process. The approach uses Google Street View and the Google Vision API to extract characteristics (herein referred to as features) of the built environment that is used to automate the process of understanding whether people will feel fear or safety. In testing this approach, we extracted $$\tilde{1}$$

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.3M images for the 100 locations and identified 297 features of the built environment. A measure of dependency demonstrated that some are more strongly associated with areas where people express a feeling of safety or fear. Further, through empirical testing, it is observed that these features can be used for classification. The results demonstrate the potential of the technique and were compared with human coders. The presented methodology and exploratory research provide a foundation for systematic computational observation to identify environmental correlates of fear of crime.
Energy efficiency optimization analysis of a ground source heat pump system based on neural networks and genetic algorithms
Authors: Wei Shanming , Wang HaiBo , Tian YanFa , Man Xubo , Wang Yanshi , Zhou ShiYu
Published: December 2024

This paper reports on the performance of a ground source heat pump (GSHP) system located in Shandong Province, China. The system operation data were monitored and collected by a data collection system. According to the analysis of the accumulated operational data, it was found that the GSHP system showed a relative higher COP in cooling season of 2023 than that of 2022 due to the change of supplying water temperature at ground-source side. Based on the analyzed data, a BP neural network model for energy consumption prediction was established. Furthermore, genetic algorithm (GA) was used to optimize the control strategy on the basis of the energy consumption prediction model. Comparison between the artificial experience control strategy and the one optimized by the genetic algorithm was conducted. The results show that the optimization strategy of the genetic algorithm is superior in terms of energy saving, particularly in the load rate higher than 50%, in which, the average energy-saving rate reaches 39.66%. Within the load rate range of 30–50%, the energy-saving rate could also reach 7.84%.
Novel approach for modelling low enthalpy geothermal in deep sedimentary aquifers: a case study of 40 years of production data in the Dogger formation
Authors: Renaud Theo , Popineau Joris , O’Sullivan John , Dorado Julien Gasser
Published: December 2024

Geothermal energy in the Paris urban area has been exploited since the early 1970s. Deep drilling in the Paris sedimentary basin has targeted hot brine in the Dogger formations from a mid-Jurassic carbonate rocks series. More than a hundred wells have been drilled to depths ranging from 1400 to 2000 m and decades of production and reinjection have resulted in variations in the aquifer pressure and temperature in some areas. The regional numerical model discussed herein is aimed at assessing the potential interactions between doublets and for assessing the impact of the addition of more wells in the future. While the integration of a 3D refined geological model into a large-scale reservoir model needs heavy computational resources, local models simplifying the main productive areas into one or two layers surrounded by impermeable units can be used to approximately assess the reservoir characteristics. The modelling of a semi-regional area of the Dogger reservoir in the Southern part of Paris (Cachan/Orly) has been performed, using a conventional double-layer approach to simulate the natural state and production history of the area using the simulator Waiwera, a fast parallel open-source geothermal simulator from the University of Auckland in New-Zealand. Calibration of a natural state model, which describes the conditions before any geothermal operations, has been performed, including an analysis of the impact of boundary condition values on the ability of the model to match the data available in the public domain. The temperature and pressure distributions, instead of being based on geostatistical mapping methods have been obtained from a calibrated natural state model. The implementation of a regional lateral cross flow observed from past studies proved to be essential for matching the measured temperatures and pressures along with variations in the deep heat flux. A calibrated model has been obtained from matching the available production data with mismatches of no more than 1.5 °C. The modelling results confirm the dominance of the shallower productive zone in the aquifers and give insights into the extent of the cooler areas created by the long-term operations. Thus we have used the Dogger reservoir, with multiple data sets available, as a case study for calibrating a semi regional numerical model of a deep sedimentary aquifer used for geothermal direct-use. Our modelling study accounts for the conceptual understanding of the sedimentary aquifer with its heterogeneities and calibrates the numerical model against the measured historical data. Based on the calibrated reservoir model, the pressure and temperature responses in deep productive areas can be determined enabling operators or decision makers to test future strategies for sustainably operating the geothermal resource.
Impact of board-certified intensive care training facilities on choice of adjunctive therapies and prognosis of severe respiratory failure: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Yoshida Takuo , Shimizu Sayuri , Fushimi Kiyohide , Mihara Takahiro
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with severe respiratory failure have high mortality and need various interventions. However, the impact of intensivists on treatment choices, patient outcomes, and optimal intensivist staffing patterns is unknown. In this study, we aimed to evaluate treatments and clinical outcomes for patients at board-certified intensive care training facilities compared with those at non-certified facilities.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used Japan’s nationwide in-patient database from 2016 to 2019 and included patients with non-operative severe respiratory failure who required mechanical ventilation for over 4 days. Treatments and in-hospital mortality were compared between board-certified intensive care facilities requiring at least one intensivist and non-certified facilities using propensity score matching.

Results

Of the 66,905 patients in this study, 30,588 were treated at board-certified facilities, and 36,317 were not. The following differed between board-certified and non-certified facilities: propofol (35% vs. 18%), dexmedetomidine (37% vs. 19%), fentanyl (50% vs. 20%), rocuronium (8.5% vs. 2.6%), vecuronium (1.9% vs. 0.6%), noradrenaline (35% vs. 19%), arginine vasopressin (8.1% vs. 2.0%), adrenaline (2.3% vs. 1.0%), dobutamine (8.7% vs. 4.8%), phosphodiesterase inhibitors (1.0% vs. 0.3%), early enteral nutrition (29% vs. 14%), early rehabilitation (34% vs. 30%), renal replace therapy (15% vs. 6.7%), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (1.6% vs. 0.3%), critical care unit admission (74% vs. 30%), dopamine (9.0% vs. 15%), sivelestat (4.1% vs. 7.0%), and high-dose methylprednisolone (13% vs. 15%). After 1:1 propensity score matching, the board-certified group had lower in-hospital mortality than the non-certified group (31% vs. 38%; odds ratio, 0.75; 95% confidence interval, 0.72–0.77; P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed greater benefits in the board-certified group for older patients, those who required vasopressors on the first day of mechanical ventilation, and those treated in critical care units.

Conclusions

Board-certified intensive care training facilities implemented several different adjunctive treatments for severe respiratory failure compared to non-board-certified facilities, and board-certified facilities were associated with lower in-hospital mortality. Because various factors may contribute to the outcome, the causal relationship remains uncertain. Further research is warranted to determine how best to strengthen patient outcomes in the critical care system through the certification of intensive care training facilities.
Analysis on dendritic deep learning model for AMR task
Authors: Yin Peng , Zhu Sanli , Yu Yang , Wang Ziqian , Chen Zhuangzhi
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a novel hybrid deep learning model featuring a dendritic layer for enhancing the performance of automatic modulation recognition (AMR). By replacing the fully connected layer, the proposed model demonstrates superior classification accuracy in AMR tasks. Comparative experiments with nine state-of-the-art deep learning models on the RadioML2016.10a dataset reveal its consistent superiority. Statistical analyses, including the Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test, confirm the significant advantage of the HDM-D model.
Novel oxidative stress- and ferroptosis-related gene prognostic signature for erectile dysfunction
Authors: Liu Meijun , Yu Maobin , Ma ZiYang , Xu Zilong , Zhang Tao , Zeng Hongsen , Li Ze , Dang XiYu , Zhang Peihai
Published: December 2024

Background

Studies have suggested that Guizhi Jia Longgu Muli decoction (GuiZhiJiaLongGuMuLiTang) has a therapeutic effect on erectile dysfunction (ED), even though how it works is still not fully understood.

Methods

In this research, transcriptome data related to ED were extracted from the GEO database. The candidate target genes were obtained by intersecting the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) screened using the software package limma, oxidative stress-related genes (OSRGs), ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs), and the target genes of the chemically active ingredients of GuiZhiJiaLongGuMuLiTang. Enrichment analyses of these candidate target genes were conducted using ClusterProfiler, and the key chemically active ingredient-candidate target gene-KEGG pathway network was constructed using Cytoscape. Then, the key target genes of ED were identified through an analysis of protein–protein interactions (PPIs). Additionally, a gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to investigate the functions of the key target genes, and the mRNA-miRNA and TF-mRNA regulatory networks were developed to explore the potential regulation of these key genes. Furthermore, the intermolecular interactions between key target genes and key chemically active ingredients of GuiZhiJiaLongGuMuLiTang were studied using molecular docking analysis.

Results

Fifteen candidate target genes were associated with the HIF-1 signaling pathway, of which EGFR, PPARG, SLC2A1, and SRC were screened as the key target genes for ED. Notably, these key target genes were associated with oxidative phosphorylation, focal adhesion, and ECM–receptor interaction. The miRNA-mRNA and TF-mRNA regulatory networks were constructed, and it was observed that EGR1 could regulate EGFR and PPARG, TP53 could regulate EGFR and SLC2A1, and SP1 could regulate EGFR and SRC simultaneously. The miRNAs hsa-miR-1-3p, hsa-miR-218-5p, hsa-miR-138-5p, and hsa-miR-27a-3p were the common miRNAs of EGFR and PPARG. Furthermore, quercetin was the key chemically active ingredient of GuiZhiJiaLongGuMuLiTang, with the docking affinity between SLC2A1 and quercetin being the highest.

Conclusion

This study identified four key target genes related to oxidative stress and ferroptosis in ED: EGFR, PPARG, SLC2A1, and SRC, along with quercetin, an active compound in GuiZhiJiaLongGuMuLiTang. These results enrich the research on the mechanism of Guizhi Jia Longgu Muli decoction in treating erectile dysfunction.
Pretreatment administration of hydro-ethanolic extract of Syzygium aromaticum prevents thioacetamide-induced liver injury in rat
Authors: Pajouhi Ali , Pajouhi Naser , Karimi Rouzbahani Arian , Assaei Raheleh
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Liver injury is an important problem in healthcare. Thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver injury is an established model in experimental research for assessing the impact of various toxins and pharmaceuticals on the liver. TAA induces its harmful effects by the production of oxidative biomolecules. Oxidative stress subsequently alters liver function, resulting in alterations in the enzymatic activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Syzygium aromaticum has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been utilised in traditional medicine for liver diseases. Therefore, this study evaluated the hepatoprotective effect of the hydro-ethanolic extract of Syzygium aromaticum (HESA) against TAA-induced liver injury.

Material and methods

Hepatotoxicity was induced with intraperitoneal administration of TAA (150 mg/kg body weight, 3 days per week for 4 weeks) in Wistar rats. The pretreatment with HESA was conducted at three doses of 50, 150, and 300 mg/kg body weight, administered orally, starting 4 weeks before TAA administration and continued for 8 weeks. The activities of serum AST, ALT, and ALP, as well as liver superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA), were assessed. Histopathological analyses were conducted using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining.

Results

The findings showed that HESA pretreatment significantly lowered TAA-induced oxidative stress. Additionally, TAA significantly increased AST, ALT, and ALP serum levels, whereas HESA significantly recovered the corresponding values. H&E staining also showed that TAA-induced structural liver damage was characterised by central vein dilatation, and necrosis, and apoptosis in adjacent cells. The histopathological findings of the TAA group were partially recovered in the pretreatment extract groups.

Conclusion

The results of this study support the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Syzygium aromaticum against TAA-induced liver injury.
Impact of Surreptitious Glucocorticoids in Over-the-Counter Arthritis Supplements
Authors: Wei Kevin S , De La Torre Miguel O , Flores Antonio , Chiu Christine E , Hurtado Carolina R , Angell Trevor E
Published: December 2024

Adrenal dysfunction due to over-the-counter (OTC) health supplements containing unlabeled glucocorticoids has been previously reported. Here, we present a case series of 12 patients at an urban safety net medical center evaluated by endocrinology for iatrogenic adrenal dysfunction, Cushing syndrome (CS) and/or adrenal insufficiency (AI), associated with use of OTC arthritis supplements surreptitiously containing glucocorticoids. There were 12 patients using OTC arthritis supplements (Artri King [n = 8], Ardosons [n = 3], Ajo Rey [n = 1]) included. The mean age was 51.6 years and 33.3% were female. Findings of CS were identified in 10/12 (83.3%) patients, including moon facies (66%), central adiposity (66%), and abdominal striae (50%). Symptoms of AI were identified in 8/12 (66.7%) patients, including nausea/vomiting (42%), fatigue (42%), and abdominal pain (33%). Of 10/12 (83.3%) patients initially needing glucocorticoid replacement therapy, 4 continue to require treatment, 3 have successfully discontinued treatment, and 3 have been lost to follow-up. The literature reviewed identified 10 cases in 7 previously published reports, which did not include consistent follow-up data on adrenal function after discontinuation of the supplement. This case series demonstrates possible presentations of CS and/or AI from glucocorticoid exposure in patients taking these OTC arthritis supplements. Including more cases than all previously published reports combined, this series expands data for cortisol levels, cosyntropin test results, and glucocorticoid replacement needs for these patients and highlights the necessity for vigilant identification of supplement sources of exogenous steroids and the recognition of possible AI when such supplements are discontinued.
Symptomatic Progression, Recurrence, and Long-Term Follow-Up of Patients With Intracranial Epidermoid Cysts
Authors: Ramesh Rithvik , Quintana Daniel , Osorio Robert C. , Jimenez Christian J. , Aghi Manish K. , McDermott Michael W. , Theodosopoulos Philip V. , Goldschmidt Ezequiel
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Intracranial epidermoid cysts are rare, slow-growing but highly recurrent tumors with incompletely understood symptoms, progression, complications, and outcomes. The aim of the study was to characterize the symptomatology, surgical management, and long-term outcomes of these tumors.

METHODS:

This single-center retrospective analysis identified patients with pathologically confirmed intracranial epidermoid cysts from 1989 to 2023. Demographic and clinical variables were collected at diagnosis, before and after each resection, and at the latest follow-up. Differences across time points were evaluated using analysis of variance with post hoc Tukey's honestly significant difference tests and Pearson χ2 test with posthoc Bonferroni-corrected z-tests for independent proportions (significance: P ≤ .05). Kaplan-Meier, Cox regression, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to investigate predictors for recurrence-free survival and 30-day readmission following first surgery, respectively.

RESULTS:

Of 146 patients in the final cohort, the average age at diagnosis was 40.3 years, and 52.1% of patients were female. The mean maximum tumor dimension at presentation was 4.3 cm. Most presenting symptoms were significantly reduced at the latest follow-up, including headaches (presentation: 40.4%/latest follow-up: 8.8%, P < .001), vertigo/nausea/vomiting (33.1%/3.7%, P < .001), ataxia/incoordination (22.8%/4.4%, P < .001), and seizures (11.8%/2.9%, P < .005). Similarly, significant improvements were observed in cranial nerve (CN) II deficits (11.0%/3.7%, P = .020) and CN V (11.8%/3.7%, P = .012) and CN VIII excitatory symptoms (11.8%/2.9%, P = .005). Following the first resection, 12.5% of patients were readmitted within 30 days; lumbar drain placement was associated with higher odds of readmission (adjusted odds ratio [95% CI] = 8.26 [1.29-88.19]). Evidence of tumor remnant on the immediate postoperative MRI was associated with a shorter time to recurrence following the first surgery (P = .023).

CONCLUSION:

The clinical progression of intracranial epidermoid cysts is marked by a spectrum of troublesome presenting symptoms and a notable tendency for recurrence, particularly following subtotal resection. Nevertheless, symptomatic improvement is the rule even if reoperations are needed, and mortality is exceedingly rare.