bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barriers and facilitators to bracing in adults with painful degenerative scoliosis: a single-centred mixed-method feasibility study
Authors: Dureigne Flora , Chagnas Marie-Ombeline , Roren Alexandra , Couzi Emmanuel , Lefèvre-Colau Marie-Martine , Moreau Sylvain , Nicol Vanina , Rannou François , Daste Camille , Nguyen Christelle
Published: January 2023

Background

Conservative treatments including bracing and exercise therapy are prescribed on the first-line in adults with degenerative scoliosis. However, adherence to conservative treatments is low. We aimed to assess barriers and facilitators to bracing in adults with painful degenerative scoliosis.

Methods

We conducted a single-centred mixed-method pilot and feasibility study. All patients scheduled for a multidisciplinary custom-made bracing consultation, from July 2019 to January 2020, in a French tertiary care centre, were screened. Patients were eligible if they had painful adult degenerative scoliosis and a prescription for a rigid custom-made lumbar-sacral orthosis. The primary outcome was barriers and facilitators to bracing assessed by a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews. Secondary outcomes were back pain, spine-specific activity limitations, symptoms of depression and satisfaction with bracing post-intervention assessed by a quantitative approach.

Results

Overall, 56 patients were screened and 14 (25%) were included. Mean age was 68.2 (12.3) years. Mean follow-up was 9.8 (2.0) months. Barriers to bracing were increased limitations in some activities, discomfort in hot weather and burden of aesthetic appearance. Facilitators to bracing were reduced pain, improved activities of daily living, suitable weight and improved spinal alignment. Participants self-implemented solutions to enhance adherence. The mean reduction from baseline in pain intensity was 1.7 (2.3) of 10 points, and 6 of 13 patients (46%) had pain intensity < 4 of 10 points.

Conclusion

Bracing is a feasible intervention for people with painful adult degenerative scoliosis. Patients self-implemented their own solutions to enhance adherence.
Long-term variability in physiological measures in relation to mortality and epigenetic aging: prospective studies in the USA and China
Authors: Chen Hui , Zhou Tianjing , Wu Shaowei , Cao Yaying , Zong Geng , Yuan Changzheng
Published: January 2023

Background

Visit-to-visit body weight variability (BWV), pulse rate variability (PRV), and blood pressure variability (BPV) have been respectively linked to multiple health outcomes. The associations of the combination of long-term variability in physiological measures with mortality and epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) remain largely unknown.

Methods

We constructed a composite score of physiological variability (0-3) of large variability in BWV, PRV, and BPV (the top tertiles) in 2006/2008–2014/2016 in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and 2011–2015 in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). All-cause mortality was documented through 2018. EAA was calculated using thirteen DNA methylation-based epigenetic clocks among 1047 participants in a substudy of the HRS. We assessed the relation of the composite score to the risk of mortality among 6566 participants in the HRS and 6906 participants in the CHARLS by Cox proportional models and then investigated its association with EAA using linear regression models.

Results

A higher score of variability was associated with higher mortality risk in both cohorts (pooled hazard ratio [HR] per one-point increment, 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18, 1.39; P-heterogeneity = 0.344), after adjustment for multiple confounders and baseline physiological measures. Specifically, each SD increment in BWV, PRV, and BPV was related to 21% (95% CI: 15%, 28%), 6% (0%, 13%), and 12% (4%, 19%) higher hazard of mortality, respectively. The composite score was significantly related to EAA in second-generation clocks trained on health outcomes (e.g., standardized coefficient = 0.126 in the Levine clock, 95% CI: 0.055, 0.196) but not in most first-generation clocks trained on chronological age.

Conclusions

Larger variability in physiological measures was associated with a higher risk of mortality and faster EAA.
O-linked N-acetylglucosamine affects mitochondrial homeostasis by regulating Parkin-dependent mitophagy in hyperoxia-injured alveolar type II cells injury
Authors: Xuefei Yu , Dongyan Liu , Tianming Li , Hejuan Zheng , Jianhua Fu
Published: January 2023

Background

The level of linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) has been proved to be a sensor of cell state, but its relationship with hyperoxia-induced alveolar type 2 epithelial cells injure and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) has not been clarified. In this study, we evaluated if these effects ultimately led to functional damage in hyperoxia-induced alveolar cells.

Methods

We treated RLE-6TN cells at 85% hyperoxia for 0, 24 and 48 h with Thiamet G (TG), an OGA inhibitor; OSMI-1 (OS), an OGT inhibitor; or with UDP-GlcNAc, which is involved in synthesis of O-GlcNAc as a donor. The metabolic rerouting, cell viability and apoptosis resulting from the changes in O-GlcNAc glycosyltransferase levels were evaluated in RLE-6TN cells after hyperoxia exposure. We constructed rat Park2 overexpression and knockdown plasmmids for in vitro verification and Co-immunoprecipitation corroborated the binding of Parkin and O-GlcNAc. Finally, we assessed morphological detection in neonatal BPD rats with TG and OS treatment.

Results

We found a decrease in O-GlcNAc content and levels of its metabolic enzymes in RLE-6TN cells under hyperoxia. However, the inhibition of OGT function with OSMI-1 ameliorated hyperoxia-induced lung epithelial cell injury, enhanced cell metabolism and viability, reduced apoptosis, and accelerated the cell proliferation. Mitochondrial homeostasis was affected by O-GlcNAc and regulated Parkin.

Conclusion

The results revealed that the decreased O-GlcNAc levels and increased O-GlcNAcylation of Parkin might cause hyperoxia-induced alveolar type II cells injurys.
Cost-effectiveness of atezolizumab versus pembrolizumab as first-line treatment in PD-L1-positive advanced non-small-cell lung cancer in Spain
Authors: Isla Dolores , Lopez-Brea Marta , Espinosa María , Arrabal Natalia , Pérez-Parente Diego , Carcedo David , Bernabé-Caro Reyes
Published: January 2023

Background

Atezolizumab has recently been approved for first-line treatment of high PD-L1 expression metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) patients with no EGFR or ALK mutations, on the basis of the IMpower110 trial. This study aims to estimate the cost-effectiveness of atezolizumab compared with pembrolizumab among these patients in Spanish settings, based on the results of the two cut-offs of the IMpower110 study.

Methods

A three-state partitioned-survival model was adapted to Spanish settings to calculate health outcomes and costs over a lifetime horizon. Clinical data for atezolizumab were collected from the interim and the exploratory results (data cut-off: Sept’18 and Feb’20, respectively) of the IMpower110 trial while a network meta-analysis was used to model pembrolizumab treatment. Utility data were collected from the trial. Direct medical costs were considered based on resources identified by experts. Costs and outcomes were discounted at 3% per year. Health outcomes were expressed as cost per Life Year (LY) and cost per Quality-Adjusted Life Year (QALY). Both deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness of results.

Results

Over a lifetime horizon, the incremental results showed that atezolizumab generated similar health outcomes (LYs and QALYs) to pembrolizumab, with minimal differences depending on the cut-off used (+ 0.70 and + 0.42 LYs and QALYs with Sept’18 cut-off and − 0.80 and − 0.72 LYs and QALYs with Feb’20 cut-off). However, for both cut-offs, atezolizumab produced meaningfully less costs than pembrolizumab (€ − 54,261 with Sept’18 cut-off and € − 81,907 with Feb’20 cut-off). The sensitivity analyses carried out confirmed the robustness of the base-case results.

Conclusions

The cost-effectiveness analysis, comparing the two cut-off of IMpower110, shows that atezolizumab provides similar health gains to pembrolizumab but at a lower cost for the first-line treatment of metastasic NSCLC patients in Spain.
The association between early introduction of tiny tastings of solid foods and duration of breastfeeding
Authors: Stern Jenny , Funkquist Eva-Lotta , Grandahl Maria
Published: January 2023

Background

Conflicting advice and non-evidence-based recommendations have a negative effect on breastfeeding. Since 2011, the National Food Agency in Sweden has informed parents that they can introduce tiny tastings (1 mL of solid food, i.e. other sources of nutrition than breastmilk/formula) to infants from four months of age. It is unknown how national recommendations, which differ from the Word Health Organisation’s recommendation, affect breastfeeding. We hypothesised that introduction of tiny tastings of solid foods would shorten the duration of continued breastfeeding.

Methods

This retrospective study utilises data from the longitudinal ‘Swedish Pregnancy Planning Study’, in which mothers were recruited at antenatal clinics on a national level. The participants completed three questionnaires up to one year after birth (n = 1,251). Linear regression models were used to analyse the association between the introduction of solid foods and the duration of breastfeeding.

Results

As hypothesised, introduction of tiny tastings shortened the duration of continued breastfeeding. Half of all infants (48%) were fed with tiny tastings already in the fourth month. The correlation analysis showed that the earlier the infants started with tiny tastings, the earlier they ate larger amounts of solid food. In a multivariate linear regression analysis, five factors were identified as having a negative effect on the duration of breastfeeding: low infant age upon introduction of tiny tastings, low maternal age, low level of maternal education, high maternal BMI and twin birth.

Conclusions

Early introduction of tiny tastings of solid foods shortened the duration of breastfeeding. It is difficult to influence most conditions that affect breastfeeding, for example, the mother’s educational level, BMI, age and if she has given birth to twins. In contrast, national guidelines can always be updated. Recommendations from the Swedish authorities should adhere to the WHO’s recommendation, which states exclusive breastfeeding for six months and continued breastfeeding for at least two years or longer.
Chylothorax and chylopericardial tamponade following lobectomy and lymphadenectomy: a rare presentation
Authors: Zhang Guofei , Liu Tianshu , Liang Chengxiao
Published: January 2023

Background

Although postoperative chylothorax following lung cancer surgery is rare, it is a recognized complication in 0.25–3% of patients. However, cases of cardiac tamponade caused by chylopericardium after lung cancer surgery are extremely rare.

Case presentation

We describe hitherto unreported sequelae of chyle leak following lobectomy and systematic mediastinal lymph node dissection (SLND) causing pericardial tamponade and cardiovascular compromise. The patient was successfully treated with minimally invasive surgical repair and ligation. We also discuss the development of chylopericardium as a potential complication of lobectomy and SLND.

Conclusions

The anatomical characteristics of the thoracic duct warrant special attention in postoperative chyle leak management in patients who undergo definitive mediastinal lymph node dissection. Surgeons should be aware that chylopericardium is a rare but potential complication of lobectomy and SLND as it may help with early diagnosis, management, and prevention of cardiac tamponade.
Computer-based multiple component cognitive training in children with ADHD: a pilot study
Authors: Wu Yingying , Xu Lingzi , Wu Zhaomin , Cao Xiaolan , Xue Gui , Wang Yufeng , Yang Binrang
Published: January 2023

Background

ADHD is associated with deficits in executive functions. Cognitive training is a promising nonpharmacological intervention for ADHD, however, there is insufficient evidence to guide the selection of training for individuals with ADHD. This pilot study aims to investigate the efficacy of executive function training targeting key executive dysfunctions in ADHD, compared with general executive function training which targets other executive functions.

Methods

A total of 127 subjects (6–12 years) diagnosed with ADHD were allocated to receive one of two different cognitive trainings. ADHD symptoms and cognitive functions were evaluated using parent-rated scales and CANTAB cognitive assessments. All participants were required to complete 48 training sessions within a two-month period.

Results

94 out of 127 children completed the required training and assessments. Both ADHD executive function training group and general executive function training group showed significant improvement in ADHD symptoms on the ADHD Rating Scale and in executive function on the assessment of CANTAB. There was no significant difference in improvements between the two groups. Subgroup analysis suggested that children who had ADHD-RS total scores less than or equal to 28 at baseline showed greater improvement following ADHD executive function training.

Conclusions

This study indicates that cognitive training can improve ADHD symptoms and executive function, with no difference in efficacy between targeted and generalized cognitive training. In addition, individuals with lower symptom severity may benefit more from training targeting key ADHD executive dysfunctions.
Predicting chemoresponsiveness in epithelial ovarian cancer patients using circulating small extracellular vesicle-derived plasma gelsolin
Authors: Gerber Emma , Asare-Werehene Meshach , Reunov Arkadiy , Burger Dylan , Le Tien , Carmona Euridice , Mes-Masson Anne-Marie , Tsang Benjamin K.
Published: January 2023

Background

Resistance to chemotherapy continues to be a challenge when treating epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), contributing to low patient survival rates. While CA125, the conventional EOC biomarker, has been useful in monitoring patients’ response to therapy, there are no biomarkers used to predict treatment response prior to chemotherapy. Previous work in vitro showed that plasma gelsolin (pGSN) is highly expressed in chemoresistant EOC cell lines, where it is secreted in small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). Whether sEVs from tumour cells are secreted into the circulation of EOC patients and could be used to predict patient chemoresponsiveness is yet to be determined. This study aims to identify if sEV-pGSN in the circulation could be a predictive biomarker for chemoresistance in EOC.

Methods

Sandwich ELISA was used to measure pGSN concentrations from plasma samples of 96 EOC patients (primarily high grade serous EOC). sEVs were isolated using ExoQuick ULTRA and characterized using western blot, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and electron microscopy after which pGSN was measured from the sEVs. Patients were stratified as platinum sensitive or resistant groups based on first progression free interval (PFI) of 6 or 12 months.

Results

Total circulating pGSN was significantly decreased and sEV-pGSN increased in patients with a PFI ≤ 12 months (chemoresistant) compared to those with a PFI > 12 months (chemosensitive). The ratio of total pGSN to sEV-pGSN further differentiated these groups and was a strong predictive marker for chemoresistance (sensitivity: 73.91%, specificity: 72.46%). Predetermined CA125 was not different between chemosensitive and chemoresistant groups and was not predictive of chemoresponsiveness prior to treatment. When CA125 was combined with the ratio of total pGSN/sEV-pGSN, it was a significant predictor of chemoresponsiveness, but the test performance was not as robust as the total pGSN/sEV-pGSN alone.

Conclusions

Total pGSN/sEV-pGSN was the best predictor of chemoresponsiveness prior to treatment, outperforming the individual biomarkers (CA125, total pGSN, and sEV-pGSN). This multianalyte predictor of chemoresponsiveness could help to inform physicians’ treatment and follow up plan at the time of EOC diagnosis, thus improving patients’ outcomes.
Genome-wide assessment of DNA methylation alterations induced by superovulation, sexual immaturity and in vitro follicle growth in mouse blastocysts
Authors: Saucedo-Cuevas Laura , Ivanova Elena , Herta Anamaria-Cristina , Krueger Felix , Billooye Katy , Smitz Johan , Kelsey Gavin , Anckaert Ellen
Published: January 2023

Background

In their attempt to fulfill the wish of having children, women who suffer from fertility issues often undergo assisted reproductive technologies such as ovarian stimulation, which has been associated with adverse health outcomes and imprinting disorders in children. However, given the crucial role of exogenous hormone stimulation in improving human infertility treatments, a more comprehensive analysis of the potential impacts on DNA methylation in embryos following ovarian stimulation is needed. Here, we provide genome-wide DNA methylation profiles of blastocysts generated after superovulation of prepubertal or adult mice, compared with blastocysts derived from non-stimulated adult mice. Additionally, we assessed the impact of the in vitro growth and maturation of oocytes on methylation in blastocysts.

Results

Neither hormone stimulation nor sexual maturity had an impact on the low global methylation levels characteristic of the blastocyst stage or was associated with extensive DNA methylation alterations. However, we found hormone- and age-associated changes at specific positions but dispersed throughout the genome. In particular, we detected anomalous methylation at a limited number of CpG islands. Additionally, superovulation in adult mice was associated with alterations at the Sgce and Zfp777 imprinted genes. On the other hand, in vitro culture of follicles from the early pre-antral stage was associated with globally reduced methylation and increased variability at imprinted loci in blastocysts.

Conclusions

Our results indicate a minimal effect of ovarian stimulation of adult and prepubertal mice on the DNA methylation landscape attained at the blastocyst stage, but potentially greater impacts of in vitro growth and maturation of oocytes. These findings have potential significance for the improvement of assisted reproductive techniques, in particular for those related to treatments in prepubertal females, which could be crucial for improving human fertility preservation strategies.
MAIC–10 brief quality checklist for publications using artificial intelligence and medical images
Authors: Cerdá-Alberich Leonor , Solana Jimena , Mallol Pedro , Ribas Gloria , García-Junco Miguel , Alberich-Bayarri Angel , Marti-Bonmati Luis
Published: January 2023

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) with medical images to solve clinical problems is becoming increasingly common, and the development of new AI solutions is leading to more studies and publications using this computational technology. As a novel research area, the use of common standards to aid AI developers and reviewers as quality control criteria will improve the peer review process. Although some guidelines do exist, their heterogeneity and extension advocate that more explicit and simple schemes should be applied on the publication practice. Based on a review of existing AI guidelines, a proposal which collects, unifies, and simplifies the most relevant criteria was developed. The MAIC-10 (Must AI Criteria-10) checklist with 10 items was implemented as a guide to design studies and evaluate publications related to AI in the field of medical imaging. Articles published in Insights into Imaging in 2021 were selected to calculate their corresponding MAIC-10 quality score. The mean score was found to be 5.6 ± 1.6, with critical items present in most articles, such as “Clinical need”, “Data annotation”, “Robustness”, and “Transparency” present in more than 80% of papers, while improvements in other areas were identified. MAIC-10 was also observed to achieve the highest intra-observer reproducibility when compared to other existing checklists, with an overall reduction in terms of checklist length and complexity. In summary, MAIC-10 represents a short and simple quality assessment tool which is objective, robust and widely applicable to AI studies in medical imaging.
Development and validation of a multivariable model predicting the required catheter dwell time among mechanically ventilated critically ill patients in three randomized trials
Authors: Iachkine Jeanne , Buetti Niccolò , de Grooth Harm-Jan , Briant Anaïs R. , Mimoz Olivier , Mégarbane Bruno , Mira Jean-Paul , Valette Xavier , Daubin Cédric , du Cheyron Damien , Mermel Leonard A. , Timsit Jean-François , Parienti Jean-Jacques
Published: January 2023

Background

The anatomic site for central venous catheter insertion influences the risk of central venous catheter-related intravascular complications. We developed and validated a predictive score of required catheter dwell time to identify critically ill patients at higher risk of intravascular complications.

Methods

We retrospectively conducted a cohort study from three multicenter randomized controlled trials enrolling consecutive patients requiring central venous catheterization. The primary outcome was the required catheter dwell time, defined as the period between the first catheter insertion and removal of the last catheter for absence of utility. Predictors were identified in the training cohort (3SITES trial; 2336 patients) through multivariable analyses based on the subdistribution hazard function accounting for death as a competing event. Internal validation was performed in the training cohort by 500 bootstraps to derive the CVC-IN score from robust risk factors. External validation of the CVC-IN score were performed in the testing cohort (CLEAN, and DRESSING2; 2371 patients).

Results

The analysis was restricted to patients requiring mechanical ventilation to comply with model assumptions. Immunosuppression (2 points), high creatinine > 100 micromol/L (2 points), use of vasopressor (1 point), obesity (1 point) and older age (40–59, 1 point; ≥ 60, 2 points) were independently associated with the required catheter dwell time. At day 28, area under the ROC curve for the CVC-IN score was 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.66–0.72] in the training cohort and 0.64, 95% CI [0.61–0.66] in the testing cohort. Patients with a CVC-IN score ≥ 4 in the overall cohort had a median required catheter dwell time of 24 days (versus 11 days for CVC-IN score < 4 points). The positive predictive value of a CVC-IN score ≥ 4 was 76.9% for > 7 days required catheter dwell time in the testing cohort.

Conclusion

The CVC-IN score, which can be used for the first catheter, had a modest ability to discriminate required catheter dwell time. Nevertheless, preference of the subclavian site may contribute to limit the risk of intravascular complications, in particular among ventilated patients with high CVC-IN score.

Trials Registration NCT01479153, NCT01629550, NCT01189682
The long-time behavior of solitary waves for the weakly damped KdV equation
Authors: Zhong Yansheng , Wu Riguang
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we first introduce the long-time behavior stability of solitary waves for the weakly damped Korteweg–de Vries equation. More concretely, solutions of the dissipative system with the initial values near a $c_{0}$

c
0

-speed solitary wave, are approximated by a long curve on the family of solitary waves with the time-varying speed $|c(t)-c_{0}|$
|
c
(
t
)
−

c
0

|
being small, in the long-time period (i.e., $0\leqslant t\leqslant O(\frac{1}{\epsilon ^{\tau}})$
0
⩽
t
⩽
O
(

1

ϵ
τ

)
). Meanwhile, the approximation difference in a suitably weighted space $H^{1}_{a}(\mathbb{R})$

H
a
1

(
R
)
is of the order of the damping coefficient and of some kind of exponential weight form. As a comparison, we also study the long-time behavior stability, i.e., for $0\leqslant t<+\infty $
0
⩽
t
<
+
∞
, the solutions are approximated by a long curve on the family of solitary waves with the exponential decay speed $c(t)= c_{0}e^{-\beta t}$
c
(
t
)
=

c
0

e

−
β
t

($0<\beta \leqslant 1$
0
<
β
⩽
1
), when the initial values are near a $c_{0}$

c
0

-speed solitary wave. However, here, the approximation difference merely defined in $H^{1}(\mathbb{R})$

H
1

(
R
)
depends on the damping coefficient ϵ and the exponential decay coefficient β.
Is cognitive control of perception and action via attentional focus moderated by motor imagery?
Authors: Bazgir Behzad , Shamseddini Alireza , Hogg Jennifer A. , Ghadiri Farhad , Bahmani Moslem , Diekfuss Jed A.
Published: January 2023

Motor imagery (MI) has emerged as an individual factor that may modulate the effects of attentional focus on motor skill performance. In this study, we investigated whether global MI, as well as its components (i.e., kinesthetic MI, internal visual MI, and external visual MI) moderate the effect of attentional focus on performance in a group of ninety-two young adult novice air-pistol shooters (age: M = 21.87, SD = 2.54). After completing the movement imagery questionnaire-3 (MIQ-3), participants were asked to complete a pistol shooting experiment in three different attentional focus conditions: (1) No focus instruction condition (control condition with no verbal instruction) (2) an internal focus instruction condition, and (3) an external focus condition. Shot accuracy, performance time, and aiming trace speed (i.e., stability of hold or weapon stability) were measured as the performance variables. Results revealed that shot accuracy was significantly poorer during internal relative to control focus condition. In addition, performance time was significantly higher during external relative to both control and internal condition. However, neither global MI, nor its subscales, moderated the effects of attentional focus on performance. This study supports the importance of attentional focus for perceptual and motor performance, yet global MI and its modalities/perspectives did not moderate pistol shooting performance. This study suggests that perception and action are cognitively controlled by attentional mechanisms, but not motor imagery. Future research with complementary assessment modalities is warranted to extend the present findings.
CIC reduces xCT/SLC7A11 expression and glutamate release in glioma
Authors: Park Jong-Whi , Kilic Omer , Deo Minh , Jimenez-Cowell Kevin , Demirdizen Engin , Kim Hyunggee , Turcan Şevin
Published: January 2023

Capicua (CIC) is an important downstream molecule of RTK/RAS/MAPK pathway. The regulatory mechanism of CIC underlying tumorigenesis in oligodendroglioma, where CIC is frequently mutated, has yet to be fully elucidated. Using patient-derived glioma lines, RNA-sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of publicly available databases, we investigated how CIC loss- or gain-of-function regulates its downstream targets, cell proliferation and glutamate release. Our results indicate an increased frequency of CIC truncating mutations in oligodendroglioma during progression. In vitro, CIC modulation had a modest effect on cell proliferation in glioma lines, and no significant changes in the expression of ETV1, ETV4 and ETV5. Transcriptional repression of known CIC targets was observed in gliomas expressing non-phosphorylatable CIC variant on Ser173 which was unable to interact with 14-3-3. These data outline a mechanism by which the repressor function of CIC is inhibited by 14-3-3 in gliomas. Using transcriptional profiling, we found that genes related to glutamate release were upregulated because of CIC depletion. In addition, loss of CIC leads to increased extracellular glutamate. Consistent with this, CIC restoration in an oligodendroglioma line reduced the levels of extracellular glutamate, neuronal toxicity and xCT/SLC7A11 expression. Our findings may provide a molecular basis for the prevention of glioma-associated seizures.
Soft actuators-based skill training wearables: a review on the interaction modes, feedback types, VR scenarios, sensors utilization and applications
Authors: Ramasamy Priyanka , Calderon-Sastre Enrique , Renganathan Gunarajulu , Das Swagata , Kurita Yuichi
Published: January 2023

Dexterity training helps improve our motor skills while engaging in precision tasks such as surgery in the medical field and playing musical instruments. In addition, post-stroke recovery also requires extensive dexterity training to recover the original motor skills associated with the affected portion of the body. Recent years have seen a rise in the usage of soft-type actuators to perform such training, giving higher levels of comfort, compliance, portability, and adaptability. Their capabilities of performing high dexterity and safety enhancement make them specific biomedical applications and serve as a sensitive tools for physical interaction. The scope of this article discusses the soft actuator types, characterization, sensing, and control based on the interaction modes and the 5 most relevant articles that touch upon the skill improvement models and interfacing nature of the task and the precision it demands. This review attempts to report the latest developments that prioritize soft materials over hard interfaces for dexterity training and prospects of end-user satisfaction.
Multiscale spectroscopic analysis of lipids in dimorphic and oleaginous Mucor circinelloides accommodate sustainable targeted lipid production
Authors: Shapaval V. , Deniset-Besseau A. , Dubava D. , Dzurendova S. , Heitmann Solheim J. , Kohler A.
Published: January 2023

Background

Oleaginous fungi have versatile metabolism and able to transform a wide range of substrates into lipids, accounting up to 20–70% of their total cell mass. Therefore, oleaginous fungi are considered as an alternative source of lipids. Oleaginous fungi can accumulate mainly acyl glycerides and free fatty acids which are localized in lipid droplets. Some of the oleaginous fungi possessing promising lipid productivity are dimorphic and can exhibit three cell forms, flat hyphae, swollen hyphae and yeast-like cells. To develop sustainable targeted fungal lipid production, deep understanding of lipogenesis and lipid droplet chemistry in these cell forms is needed at multiscale level. In this study, we explored the potential of infrared spectroscopy techniques for examining lipid droplet formation and accumulation in different cell forms of the dimorphic and oleaginous fungus Mucor circinelloides.

Results

Both transmission- and reflectance-based spectroscopy techniques are shown to be well suited for studying bulk fungal biomass. Exploring single cells with infrared microspectroscopy reveals differences in chemical profiles and, consequently, lipogenesis process, for different cell forms. Yeast-like cells of M. circinelloides exhibited the highest absorbance intensities for lipid-associated peaks in comparison to hyphae-like cell forms. Lipid-to-protein ratio, which is commonly used in IR spectroscopy to estimate lipid yield was the lowest in flat hyphae. Swollen hyphae are mainly composed of lipids and characterized by more uniform distribution of lipid-to-protein concentration. Yeast-like cells seem to be comprised mostly of lipids having the largest lipid-to-protein ratio among all studied cell forms. With infrared nanospectroscopy, variations in the ratios between lipid fractions triglycerides and free fatty acids and clear evidence of heterogeneity within and between lipid droplets are illustrated for the first time.

Conclusions

Vibrational spectroscopy techniques can provide comprehensive information on lipogenesis in dimorphic and oleaginous fungi at the levels of the bulk of cells, single cells and single lipid droplets. Unicellular spectra showed that various cell forms of M. circinelloides differs in the total lipid content and profile of the accumulated lipids, where yeast-like cells are the fatty ones and, therefore, could be considered as preferable cell form for producing lipid-rich biomass. Spectra of single lipid droplets showed an indication of possible droplet-to-droplet and within-droplet heterogeneity.
Prevalence and associated factors of delay antenatal care at public health institutions in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Abera Eshetu , Azanaw Jember , Tadesse Tsion , Endalew Mastewal
Published: January 2023

Background

Antenatal care is critical for women’s and unborn children’s health. In Ethiopia there is still a delay in getting antenatal care visit in the first trimester as recommended by the World Health Organization. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of delayed antenatal care visits and associated factors among pregnant women who attend antenatal care at a public health facility in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted between August 20 to September 15/2021. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 392 women. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire through a face-to-face interview. Epi Info version 7 and SSPS 26.0 were used for data entry and further analysis. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval at p-value < 0.05 was declared that the outcome can be statistically significant.

Results

A total of 392 study participants with a response rate of 98% were participated. The mean age of study participants was 29.1 ± 6.5 (SD) years. In this study, the prevalence of delay antenatal care was 63.8%( 95% CI: 58.9, 68.9). Age (Adjusted odds ratio = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.28, 0.93), types of health facilities (Adjusted odds ratio = 2.02; 95% CI :( 1.12, 3.64), and satisfaction with health service (Adjusted odds ratio = 3.23, 95%CI: (2.02, 5.16) were significantly associated with delay antenatal care.

Conclusion

The current study found high prevalence of delay antenatal care. Age between 31 and 34, hospital health facility and satisfaction with health service quality were associated factors for delay antenatal care visit. To begin antenatal care follow-up in the recommended time frame, a collaborative effort between the Minister of Health, health facilities, and relevant stakeholders is needed.
The linkage between Bitcoin and foreign exchanges in developed and emerging markets
Authors: BenSaïda Ahmed
Published: January 2023

This study investigates the connectedness between Bitcoin and fiat currencies in two groups of countries: the developed G7 and the emerging BRICS. The methodology adopts the regular (R)-vine copula and compares it with two benchmark models: the multivariate t copula and the dynamic conditional correlation (DCC) GARCH model. Moreover, this study examines whether the Bitcoin meltdown of 2013, selloff of 2018, COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 crash, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict impact the linkage with conventional currencies. The results indicate that for both currency baskets, R-vine beats the benchmark models. Hence, the dependence is better modeled by providing sufficient information on the shock transmission path. Furthermore, the cross-market linkage slightly increases during the Bitcoin crashes, and reaches significant levels during the 2021 and 2022 crises, which may indicate the end of market isolation of the virtual currency.
Fatal peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis caused by Mycobacterium mageritense: a case report with review
Authors: Hashimoto Nobuhiro , Kani Nao , Makino Shuzo , Naka Tomoya , Miyakawa Hiromitsu , Okamoto Kazuhiro , Uwatoko Ryuta , Bessho Saki , Iio Rei , Ueda Yoshiyasu , Hayashi Terumasa
Published: January 2023

Background

Peritonitis is a serious and potentially fatal complication of peritoneal dialysis. We report a case of fatal peritonitis caused by Mycobacterium mageritense that was detected for the first time in peritonitis.

Case presentation

A male patient in his 60 s undergoing peritoneal dialysis was admitted for catheter diversion with exit-site renewal. The patient had a refractory exit-site infection. Mycobacterial culture was not performed at the exit site prior to admission. After the surgery, the patient developed a fever, and a cloudy effluent was observed. Various antibiotics, including anti-tuberculosis drugs, were administered; however, his symptoms did not improve. The catheter was removed on the thirty-seventh day of admission. Bacteria positive for Ziehl–Neelsen staining were found in the peritoneal sample collected during the surgery. Since nontuberculous mycobacteria were considered the cause of peritonitis, the patient was administered imipenem/cilastatin, amikacin, and clarithromycin. However, he died of septic shock on the fifty-first day after admission. Mycobacterium mageritense was detected in the ascites culture after death.

Conclusion

This is, to our knowledge, the first report of peritonitis caused by Mycobacterium mageritense. In patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis, when a refractory exit-site infection is observed, mycobacterial culture is necessary to prevent the development of peritonitis.
Comparative demography, population projection, functional response and host age preference behavior of the parasitoid Goniozus legneri on two lepidopterous insect hosts
Authors: Ehteshami Fatemeh , Aleosfoor Maryam , Allahyari Hossein , Kavousi Aurang , Fekrat Lida
Published: January 2023

Background

This study was conducted to investigate life table characteristics of the parasitoid species, Goniozus legneri Gordh (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae), a major gregarious larval ecto-parasitoids of the carob moth, Ectomyelois ceratoniae Zeller (Lep.: Pyralidae). Demographic parameters of G. legneri reared on two hosts, the carob moth and the flour moth, Ephestia kuehniella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), were studied under laboratory conditions using age-stage, two-sex life table. Host stage preference and the functional response of this parasitoid were also determined.

Results

The duration of the immature period, adult pre-ovipositional period and total pre-ovipositional period of G. legneri reared on E. kuehniella was significantly longer than that of those reared on E. ceratoniae, while fecundity and ovipositional days of the wasp were greater/longer in females reared on E. ceratoniae. There were also significant differences in intrinsic and finite rates of increase and mean generation time between wasp parasitoid reared on two hosts. Moreover, population projection indicated that the G. legneri population can grow swifter when reared on E. ceratoniae than on E. kuehniella. Based on the experiments conducted to determine the larval stage preferences of G. legneri, for both hosts, larger larvae were more preferred stages compared to smaller ones, thereby fulfilling the optimal oviposition theory. The functional responses of G. legneri to different population densities of E. kuehniella two last instar larvae were determined as type III at 25 °C and 60% RH.

Conclusion

The results offer valuable information on some life history attributes of G. legneri. Although G. legneri performed better on E. ceratoniae larvae than on E. kuehniella, as the use of E. ceratoniae larvae as the main host in rearing of G. legneri might be a laborious process and can increase the production costs, E. kuehniella can be used as an alternative host. Further studies are required under greenhouse and field conditions for effective use of this biocontrol agent against the carob moth.
A p.Val412Serfs pathogenic variant associated with Wolfram-like syndrome and leukodystrophy
Authors: Kocaaga Ayca , Yimenicioglu Sevgi , Bayav Murat
Published: January 2023

Background

Wolfram syndrome is due to a mutation of the WFS1 gene that codes for the transmembrane protein wolframin. This protein is located in the endoplasmic reticulum and is expressed at higher concentrations in the beta cells of pancreatic islets and the brain. The term "Wolfram syndrome spectrum" is often used because of its genetic and clinical heterogeneity. Disorders associated with the WFS1 gene include Wolfram syndrome following an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern and Wolfram-like syndrome following an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, and congenital cataract. Here, we report a case with Wolfram-like syndrome presented with bilateral congenital cataract, optic atrophy, nystagmus, ataxia, mild intellectual disability, epilepsy and leukodystrophy.

Case report

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed bilateral cerebral T2 and flair hyperintensities that causes diffusion restriction in some areas with hypoperfusion. Bilateral T2 cerebellar central white matter hyperintensities and atrophy of brain stem were revealed by the brain MRI. There was also found evidence of a proximal cervical cord lesion and syrinx cavity in the vertebral MRI. The heterozygous frame-shift (c.1230_1233delCTCT; p.Val412Serfs) mutation in the WFS1 gene. This heterozygous pathogenic variant in the WFS1 gene was identified in both the father and grandmother.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is a novel Wolfram-like syndrome-related phenotype. This case report broadens the currently known phenotypic presentations of Wolfram-like syndrome and suggests that the p.Val412Serfs variant in the WFS1 gene may be associated with syrinx cavity and leukodystrophy.
Chemical constituents of industrial hemp roots and their anti-inflammatory activities
Authors: Huang Shijie , Li Huifang , Xu Jun , Zhou Huihao , Seeram Navindra P. , Ma Hang , Gu Qiong
Published: January 2023

Objective

Although the chemical constituents of the aerial parts of Cannabis have been extensively studied, phytochemicals of Cannabis roots are not well characterized. Herein, we investigated the chemical constituents of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) roots and evaluated the anti-inflammatory activities of phytochemicals isolated from the hemp roots extract.

Methods

An ethyl acetate extract of hemp roots was subjected to a combination of chromatographic columns to isolate phytochemicals. The chemical structures of the isolates were elucidated based on spectroscopic analyses (by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry). The anti-inflammatory effects of phytochemicals from hemp roots were evaluated in an anti-inflammasome assay using human monocyte THP-1 cells.

Results

Phytochemical investigation of hemp roots extract led to the identification of 32 structurally diverse compounds including six cannabinoids (1–6), three phytosterols (26–28), four triterpenoids (22–25), five lignans (17–21), and 10 hydroxyl contained compounds (7–16), three fatty acids (29–31), and an unsaturated chain hydrocarbon (32). Compounds 14–21, 23, 27, and 32 were identified from the Cannabis species for the first time. Cannabinoids (1–5) reduced the level of cytokine tumor necrosis-alpha (by 38.2, 58.4, 47.7, 52.2, and 56.1%, respectively) and 2 and 5 also decreased the interleukin-1β production (by 42.2 and 92.4%, respectively) in a cell-based inflammasome model. In addition, non-cannabinoids including 11, 13, 20, 25, 29, and 32 also showed selective inhibition of interleukin-1β production (by 23.7, 22.5, 25.6, 78.0, 24.1, 46.6, and 25.4%, respectively) in THP-1 cells.

Conclusion

The phytochemical constituent of a hemp roots extract was characterized and compounds from hemp roots exerted promising anti-inflammatory effects.
Sustainment of diverse evidence-informed practices disseminated in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA): initial development and piloting of a pragmatic survey tool
Authors: Reardon Caitlin M. , Damschroder Laura , Opra Widerquist Marilla A. , Arasim Maria , Jackson George L. , White Brandolyn , Cutrona Sarah L. , Fix Gemmae M. , Gifford Allen L. , DeLaughter Kathryn , King Heather A. , Henderson Blake , Vega Ryan , Nevedal Andrea L.
Published: January 2023

Background

There are challenges associated with measuring sustainment of evidence-informed practices (EIPs). First, the terms sustainability and sustainment are often falsely conflated: sustainability assesses the likelihood of an EIP being in use in the future while sustainment assesses the extent to which an EIP is (or is not) in use. Second, grant funding often ends before sustainment can be assessed.

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Diffusion of Excellence (DoE) program is one of few large-scale models of diffusion; it seeks to identify and disseminate practices across the VHA system. The DoE sponsors “Shark Tank” competitions, in which leaders bid on the opportunity to implement a practice with approximately 6 months of implementation support. As part of an ongoing evaluation of the DoE, we sought to develop and pilot a pragmatic survey tool to assess sustainment of DoE practices.

Methods

In June 2020, surveys were sent to 64 facilities that were part of the DoE evaluation. We began analysis by comparing alignment of quantitative and qualitative responses; some facility representatives reported in the open-text box of the survey that their practice was on a temporary hold due to COVID-19 but answered the primary outcome question differently. As a result, the team reclassified the primary outcome of these facilities to Sustained: Temporary COVID-Hold. Following this reclassification, the number and percent of facilities in each category was calculated. We used directed content analysis, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), to analyze open-text box responses.

Results

A representative from forty-one facilities (64%) completed the survey. Among responding facilities, 29/41 sustained their practice, 1/41 partially sustained their practice, 8/41 had not sustained their practice, and 3/41 had never implemented their practice. Sustainment rates increased between Cohorts 1–4.

Conclusions

The initial development and piloting of our pragmatic survey allowed us to assess sustainment of DoE practices. Planned updates to the survey will enable flexibility in assessing sustainment and its determinants at any phase after adoption. This assessment approach can flex with the longitudinal and dynamic nature of sustainment, including capturing nuances in outcomes when practices are on a temporary hold. If additional piloting illustrates the survey is useful, we plan to assess the reliability and validity of this measure for broader use in the field.