bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Gastroparesis on Surgical Therapy for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Eriksson Sven E. , Jobe Blair A. , Ayazi Shahin
Published: August 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastroparesis frequently present together. This concurrence represents both a diagnostic and surgical management challenge. There is controversy regarding the etiological relationship between these conditions, which extends into controversy on the proper surgical management of concurrence. Patients with gastroparesis and medically refractory GERD are often referred for consideration of antireflux surgery (ARS), but there is disagreement as to whether gastroparesis impacts surgical outcome. This review critically evaluates data concerning whether gastroparesis affects reflux control, the impact of ARS on gastroparesis symptoms and gas-bloat syndrome, physiologic changes in gastric emptying after ARS, and the role of pyloric drainage surgery in the patient undergoing ARS. Many of the studies on these topics are limited in sample size and not designed to specifically determine the impact of gastroparesis on ARS outcomes. Consequently, the available data is heterogeneous, and studies draw conflicting conclusions. Based on this controversial and limited literature, clinical reasoning, and anecdotal experience, we discuss surgical management of concurrent GERD and gastroparesis.
General practitioners’ perspectives on lifestyle interventions for cognitive preservation in dementia prevention
Authors: Kappe Josefine , Wittmann Felix , Luppa Melanie , Cardona Maria Isabel , Weise Solveign , Fuchs Stephan , Kosilek Robert Philipp , Sanftenberg Linda , Brettschneider Christian , Döhring Juliane , Escales Catharina , Czock David , Wiese Birgitt , Thyrian Jochen René , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Frese Thomas , Gensichen Jochen , König Hans-Helmut , Kaduszkiewicz Hanna , Riedel-Heller Steffi Gerlinde
Published: August 2024

Background

General practitioners (GPs) play a crucial role in identifying cognitive impairment and dementia and providing post-diagnostic care. This study investigates (1) how promising GP consider lifestyle changes to maintain cognitive performance in general, (2) GP beliefs about the power of modifiable health and lifestyle factors to maintain cognitive performance, and (3) whether those beliefs vary by GP age.

Methods

As part of the AgeWell.de trial, GPs (n = 72) completed a process evaluation questionnaire assessing their perspectives on lifestyle changes to preserve cognitive performance in elderly patients. In greater detail, their perceived efficacy of established risk and protective factors was investigated using a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed for research question (1) and (2). Spearman´s rank correlations and ordinal logistic regressions were used to answer research question (3). All results were interpreted exploratively.

Results

GPs rated the overall chance of lifestyle changes maintaining cognitive performance quite neutral with a median score of 3.0 (IQR = 2.0). They rated the efficacy of all the modifiable health and lifestyle factors high, with increase in physical and social activity ((Mdn = 5.0, IQR = 1.0) receiving the highest ratings with the narrowest range. Spearman's rank correlation indicated a significant positive relationship between age and the belief in “Optimization of nutrition” for preventing cognitive decline and dementia (ρ = .255, p = .041). However, ordinal logistic regressions showed no significant relationships between age and GP ratings of lifestyle change efficacy.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the positive perception of GPs on the efficacy of modifiable health and lifestyle factors for preventing cognitive decline and dementia.

Trial registration

The AgeWell.de trial is registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS; trial identifier: DRKS00013555, Registration Date 07 December 2017).
Interrelationship between subjective wellbeing and health
Authors: Mathentamo Qaqambile , Lawana Nozuko , Hlafa Besuthu
Published: August 2024

Background

Subjective wellbeing (SWB) and health are important facets of any person’s life, and they tend to influence each other. This importance is reflected in the vastness of literature aiming to explore this association. However, most of this literature is based on sampling national population which may present different population characteristics to those of a province. Thus, the paper aims to investigate if the association between perceived health and SWB is moderated by population characteristics at a provincial level. We intend to add value to subjective wellbeing and health literature by reviewing the relationship between SWB and health in the Eastern Cape stratified by age, gender, rural and urban and different income classifications.

Methods

Different population characteristics tend to associate to subjective wellbeing and health differently, therefore influencing how these two variables influence each other. Thus, the paper aims to investigate if the association between perceived health and SWB is moderated by population characteristics at a provincial level. Utilising the South African National Income Dynamics Survey from 2008 to 2017, this study examined the relationship between subjective wellbeing and health using a random effects model stratified according to aforementioned population characteristics.

Results

A better perceived health status is associated with higher subjective wellbeing. A better subjective wellbeing is also associated with a higher health status. Determinants of subjective wellbeing and health associate with these variables differently besides income and employment which led to higher subjective wellbeing and health. Health associates to subjective wellbeing different across populations characteristics.

Conclusion

Subjective wellbeing and health are interdependent as reflected in the World Health Organisation (WHO) and United Nation (UN) statements. Higher income and level of education and being employed is associated with both higher SWB and health. Therefore, improving these economic outcomes maybe associated with an improvement in well-being and health as desired by WHO and UN. Provinces differ, and different population characteristics tend to associate with subjective wellbeing and health differently, therefore influencing how these two variables influence each other. Health improvement policies must consider subjective wellbeing. Well-being improvement policies need to be cognisant of the differences in provincial and population characteristics.
Optimal methods of vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory infections: a systematic review, dose–response and pairwise meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wang Chih-Hung , Porta Lorenzo , Yang Ting-Kai , Wang Yu-Hsiang , Wu Tsung-Hung , Qian Frank , Han Yin-Yi , Sheng Wang-Huei , Chen Shyr-Chyr , Lee Chien-Chang , Chang Shan-Chwen
Published: August 2024

Background

Vitamin D supplementation may prevent acute respiratory infections (ARIs). This study aimed to identify the optimal methods of vitamin D supplementation.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and the ClinicalTrials.gov registry were searched from database inception through July 13, 2023. Randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Data were pooled using random-effects model. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants with one or more ARIs.

Results

The analysis included 43 RCTs with 49320 participants. Forty RCTs were considered to be at low risk for bias. The main pairwise meta-analysis indicated there were no significant preventive effects of vitamin D supplementation against ARIs (risk ratio [RR]: 0.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.97 to 1.01, I2 = 49.6%). The subgroup dose–response meta-analysis indicated that the optimal vitamin D supplementation doses ranged between 400–1200 IU/day for both summer-sparing and winter-dominant subgroups. The subgroup pairwise meta-analysis also revealed significant preventive effects of vitamin D supplementation in subgroups of daily dosing (RR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85 to 0.99, I2 = 55.7%, number needed to treat [NNT]: 36), trials duration < 4 months (RR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.97, I2 = 48.8%, NNT: 16), summer-sparing seasons (RR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.74 to 0.98, I2 = 55.8%, NNT: 26), and winter-dominant seasons (RR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.71 to 0.89, I2 = 9.7%, NNT: 10).

Conclusion

Vitamin D supplementation may slightly prevent ARIs when taken daily at doses between 400 and 1200 IU/d during spring, autumn, or winter, which should be further examined in future clinical trials.
Mass media exposure and sociodemographic factors associated with malaria vaccine awareness among women of childbearing age in Ghana
Authors: Mensah Emmanuel Angmorteh , Duah Henry Ofori , Olomofe Charles , Quinn Megan
Published: August 2024

Background

The development, approval and adoption of the malaria vaccine has provided effective supplemental protection against malaria for children in Ghana. However, heightened awareness of the new vaccine will play a critical role in its mass deployment and acceptance among potential recipients. This study therefore determined the sociodemographic characteristics associated with malaria vaccine awareness and ascertained the influence of traditional media exposure on awareness in Ghana.

Methods

The study used the Demographic and Health Survey 2019 Malaria Indicator Survey Data. After necessary recoding, chi-square and complex survey bivariate/multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed using STATA 18.0.

Results

Among the participants, 35.65% (95% CI: 33.83%–37.51%) had heard about the malaria vaccine. Positive predictors of awareness included higher education attainment (AOR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.28–2.88), rural residency (AOR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.05–1.56) and being in the northern part of the country (AOR 1.54, 95% CI: 1.14–2.07). Other positive predictors of awareness were Guan ethnicity (AOR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.09–2.81), malaria health education (AOR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.45–2.07) and radio set ownership (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.19–1.62). Television ownership (AOR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.69–1.01) showed no significant relationship with awareness.

Conclusion

The general nationwide awareness has not yet reached a desirable level. This study suggests that, the awareness drive, preferably through radio campaigns, must target individuals with less than tertiary education and urban communities. Awareness campaigns on televisions should be evaluated and possibly redesigned for effectiveness.
Application of the wildland fire emissions inventory system to estimate fire emissions on forest lands of the United States
Authors: Smith James E. , Billmire Michael , French Nancy H.F. , Domke Grant M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Forests are significant terrestrial biomes for carbon storage, and annual carbon accumulation of forest biomass contributes offsets affecting net greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The immediate loss of stored carbon through fire on forest lands reduces the annual offsets provided by forests. As such, the United States reporting includes annual estimates of direct fire emissions in conjunction with the overall forest stock and change estimates as a part of national greenhouse gas inventories within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Forest fire emissions reported for the United States, such as the 129 Tg CO2 reported for 2022, are based on the Wildland Fire Emissions Inventory System (WFEIS). Current WFEIS estimates are included in the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990–2022 published in 2024 by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Here, we describe WFEIS the fire emissions inventory system we used to address current information needs, and an analysis to confirm compatibility of carbon mass between estimated forest fire emissions and carbon in forest stocks.

Results

The summaries of emissions from forests are consistent with previous reports that show rates and interannual variability in emissions and forest land area burned are generally greater in recent years relative to the 1990s. Both emissions and interannual variability are greater in the western United States. The years with the highest CO2 emissions from forest fires on the 48 conterminous states plus Alaska were 2004, 2005, and 2015. In some years, Alaska emissions exceed those of the 48 conterminous states, such as in 2022, for example. Comparison of forest fire emission to forest carbon stocks indicate there is unlikely any serious disconnect between inventory and fire emissions estimates.

Conclusions

The WFEIS system is a user-driven approach made available via a web browser. Model results are compatible with the scope and reporting needs of the annual national greenhouse gas inventories.
Safety and feasibility of intravenous administration of a single dose of allogenic-Muse cells to treat human cervical traumatic spinal cord injury: a clinical trial
Authors: Koda Masao , Imagama Shiro , Nakashima Hiroaki , Ito Sadayuki , Segi Naoki , Ouchida Jun , Suda Kota , Harmon Matsumoto Satoko , Komatsu Miki , Endo Toshiki , Suzuki Shinsuke , Inami Satoshi , Ueda Haruki , Miyagi Masayuki , Inoue Gen , Takaso Masashi , Nagata Keiji , Yamada Hiroshi , Kamei Naosuke , Nakamae Toshio , Suzuki Hidenori , Nishida Norihiro , Funaba Masahiro , Kumagai Gentaro , Furuya Takeo , Yamato Yu , Funayama Toru , Takahashi Hiroshi , Yamazaki Masashi
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating injury and remains one of the largest medical and social burdens because of its intractable nature. According to the recent advances in stem cell biology, the possibility of spinal cord regeneration and functional restoration has been suggested by introducing appropriate stem cells. Multilineage-differentiating stress enduring (Muse) cells are a type of nontumorigenic endogenous reparative stem cell. The positive results of Muse cell transplantation for SCI was shown previously. As a first step for clinical application in human SCI, we conducted a clinical trial aiming to confirm the safety and feasibility of intravenously injected donor-Muse cells.

Methods

The study design of the current trial was a prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized, nonblinded, single-arm study. The clinical trial registration number was JRCT1080224764. Patients with a cervical SCI with a neurological level of injury C4 to C7 with the severity of modified Frankel classification B1 and B2 were included. A primary endpoint was set for safety and feasibility. Our protocol was approved by the PMDA, and the trial was funded by the Life Science Institute, Tokyo, Japan. The present clinical trial recruited 10 participants (8 males and 2 females) with an average age of 49.3 ± 21.2 years old. All 10 participants received a single dose of allogenic CL2020 (a total of 15 × 106 cells, 2.1–2.7 × 105 cells/kg of body weight), which is a Muse cell-based product produced from human mesenchymal stem cells, by an intravenous drip.

Results

There were two reported severe adverse events, both of which were determined to have no causal relationship with Muse cell treatment. The change in the ISNCSCI motor score, the activity of daily living and quality of life scores showed statistically significant improvements compared to those data at the time of CL2020 administration.

Conclusion

In the present trial, no safety concerns were identified, and Muse cell product transplantation demonstrated good tolerability. Future clinical trials with appropriate study designs incorporating a control arm will clarify the definitive efficacy of single-dose allogenic Muse cell treatment with intravenous administration to treat SCI.

Trial registration: jRCT, JRCT1080224764. Registered 03 July 2019, https://jrct.niph.go.jp/latest-detail/jRCT1080224764.
Human brain organoids containing microglia that have arisen innately adapt to a β-amyloid challenge better than those in which microglia are integrated by co-culture
Authors: Wenzel Tyler J. , Desjarlais Joseph D. , Mousseau Darrell D.
Published: August 2024

Background

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a heterogenous and multifactorial disease, and its pathology is partly driven by microglia and their activated phenotype. Brain organoids (BOs) are gaining prominence as a relevant model of the human brain for the study of AD; however, BOs are commonly devoid of microglia. To overcome this limitation, current protocols incorporate microglia through either (1) co-culture (BO co-culture), or (2) molecular manipulation at critical windows of BO development to have microglia arise innately (BO innate cultures). It is currently unclear whether the microglia incorporated into BOs by either of these two protocols differ in function.

Methods

At in vitro day 90, BO innate cultures and BO-co-cultures were challenged with the AD-related β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) for up to 72 h. After Aβ challenge, BOs were collected for immunoblotting. Immunoblots compared immunodensity and protein banding of Aβ and ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA1, a marker of microglial activation) in BOs. The translational potential of these observations was supported using 56 human cortical samples from neurocognitively normal donors and patients with early-onset AD and late-onset AD. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Kruskal–Wallis test, a two-way ANOVA, or a simple linear regression, and where applicable, followed by Dunn’s or Sidak’s test.

Results

We show that BO co-cultures promote Aβ oligomerization as early as 24 h and this coincides with a significant increase in IBA1 levels. In contrast, the Aβs do not oligomerize in BO innate cultures and the IBA1 response was modest and only emerged after 48 h. In human cortical samples, we found IBA1 levels correlated with age at onset, age at death, and the putative diagnostic Aβ(1–42)/Aβ(1–40) ratio (particularly in their oligomeric forms) in a sex-dependent manner.

Conclusions

Our unique observations suggest that BOs with innate microglia model the response of a healthy brain to Aβ, and by extension the initial stages of Aβ challenge. It would be impossible to model these early stages of pathogenesis in BOs where microglia are already compromised, such as those with microglia incorporated by co-culture.
Do leaf lignin content or leaf mass-to-area bias the estimation of intrinsic water use efficiency from leaf bulk δ13C? A test with seedlings from five oak species
Authors: Ghouil Hana , Richard Béatrice , Montpied Pierre , Dreyer Erwin , Brendel Oliver
Published: August 2024

Key Message

Leaves of seedlings from five oak species (Quercus robur L.; Q. pubescens L.; Q. suber L.; Q. afares Pomel; Q. ilex L.) displayed large, mainly inter-specific, differences in leaf mass-to-area ratio (LMA) and lignin content, as well as in the 13C composition of bulk leaf biomass. The variation in leaf lignin content and LMA did not impact the offset between the 13C composition measured in bulk leaf material versus soluble sugars. This observation, as well as the similar correlations between intrinsic leaf water use efficiency and the 13C compositions of bulk material or soluble sugars extracted from leaves, confirms their reliable use as a proxy for the former even when there is a large variation in LMA or lignin among samples.

Context

Carbon isotope composition (δ13C) of bulk leaf biomass is frequently used as a proxy for intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE) in large-scale intra- and inter-specific comparisons. However, post-photosynthetic 13C discrimination during the synthesis of lignin combined with differences in leaf mass-to-area ratio (LMA) may bias the relationship between δ13C of bulk leaf matter and iWUE and thus its use as a proxy of iWUE.

Aims

To quantify the impact of differences in lignin content and LMA on the relationship between δ13C of bulk leaf biomass and iWUE over a large gradient of lignin contents across five oak species (deciduous: Quercus robur, Q. pubescens, Q. afares and evergreen: Q. ilex and Q. suber).

Methods

We measured lignin content, LMA, and δ13C of bulk leaf biomass and of soluble sugars extracted from the leaves, as well as intrinsic water use efficiency (derived from leaf gas exchange) in seedlings of the five oak species grown under common conditions in a greenhouse and measured in a climate chamber.

Results

There was a large range (mainly across species) in lignin content (4 to 33%) and LMA (60–180 g m−2). δ13C of bulk leaf biomass and soluble sugars were tightly correlated, showing a significant mean offset of − 0.4‰. This offset was stable across species and not correlated to the lignin content of the leaves. A very loose correlation was found between the offset and LMA, mainly due to one species.

Conclusion

Our results are a demonstration that potential variations in leaf lignin content or LMA have no or only a little effect on the δ13C of bulk leaf biomass. They are unlikely to cause a bias when using bulk leaf δ13C as a proxy for variations in intrinsic water use efficiency among Mediterranean and temperate broad-leaf forest tree species.
Upper and lower solutions for an integral boundary problem with two different orders $\left ( p,q\right ) $-fractional difference
Authors: Mesmouli Mouataz Billah , Al-Askar Farah M. , Mohammed Wael W.
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a $\left ( p,q\right ) $

(
p
,
q
)

-fractional nonlinear difference equation of different orders is considered and discussed. With the help of $\left ( p,q\right ) $

(
p
,
q
)

-calculus for integrals and derivatives properties, we convert the main integral boundary value problem (IBVP) to an equivalent solution in the form of an integral equation, we use the upper–lower solution technique to prove the existence of positive solutions. We present an example of the IBVP to apply and demonstrate the results of our method.
Attitudes towards depression and its treatment among white, hispanic, and multiracial adults
Authors: Feliciano Leilani , Erdal Kristi , Sandal Gro Mjeldheim
Published: August 2024

Background

Depression is present in all societies and affects members of all racial and ethnic groups. However, attitudes about depression differ across groups and have been shown to impact help-seeking behaviors, preferences for treatments, and compliance with treatments.

Methods

Taking a cross-cultural approach, this project used a case vignette of depression to examine race/ethnic group differences in attitudes about depression and its treatment among young adults in the U.S.

Results

Data analyses revealed significant racial/ethnic group differences in attitudes as well as the treatments/strategies participants reported they would use. Gender x race/ethnicity interactions revealed that White and Multiracial/ethnic men were more likely to believe the vignette character should find a partner to help with symptoms, while White and Multiracial/ethnic women did not endorse those strategies. Hispanic men and women did not show a gender difference in that strategy, but gender differences were observed in other strategies. In a rare comparison, majority-minority Multiracial/ethnic participants (i.e., White selected as one of their races/ethnicities) rated identified helpers and treatments similarly to White participants and significantly higher than multiple-minority Multiracial participants (i.e., White not selected as one of their races/ethnicities).

Conclusions

Findings supported previous research that indicates different U.S. racial/ethnic group ideas of depression and its treatment are potentially linked with cultural values, and we suggest that investigating these more fine-grained group differences can help to inform treating professionals as well as public health messages.
German translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Vestibular Schwannoma Quality of Life Index (VSQOL)
Authors: Rutenkröger Mareike , Wandke Svenja , Gempt Jens , Dührsen Lasse , Scheer Maximilian , Strauss Christian , Führes Hannah
Published: August 2024

Background

Vestibular schwannomas (VSs) are benign tumors of the vestibulocochlear nerve that often cause significant neurological and functional impairment. Patient-reported outcomes, including quality of life (QoL), are essential for understanding the overall impact of VS and its treatment. This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the Vestibular Schwannoma Quality of Life (VSQOL) Index into German to expand its relevance to German-speaking populations.

Methods

We used a qualitative approach including translation and cognitive interviews with 10 patients who underwent VS surgery. The translation process followed the TRAPD protocol to ensure linguistic and conceptual accuracy. Cognitive interviews assessed the comprehensibility and relevance of the translated questionnaire.

Results

The translation showed remarkable consistency between translators, with minor discrepancies resolved by consensus. Cognitive interviews provided valuable insights that led to refinements in item wording. Participants emphasized the importance of an additional item on physician referrals, reflecting differences in health care systems between the United States and Germany.

Conclusions

The German VSQOL provides a comprehensive tool for assessing QoL in patients with VS that integrates patient-centered dimensions. A Validation study is underway to establish its reliability and validity.
Video watching and hands-on experiments to learn science: what can each uniquely contribute?
Authors: Shao Faxian , Tang Li , Zhang Huan
Published: August 2024

An experimental group and control group pretest and posttest design was used to conduct qualitative coding and quantitative analysis on two classes in grade 5. The aim was to investigate whether science education videos can be used in place of simulation experiments. The results showed that (1) in terms of scientific knowledge, the difference between science videos and hands-on experiments was not significant; (2) in terms of modeling capability, the hands-on class had better results regarding the perception and application of materials; and (3) more precise experiments had better effects on health behavior, but there was no significant difference between imprecise experiments and science videos. In the absence of laboratory equipment, science videos could therefore be an alternative solution.
Giant right and left atrium: spectrum of rheumatic triple valve disease (double hit with double impact): a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Karuru Uma Devi , Tummala Sadanand Reddy , Gautam Paladugu Srinivas , Naveen T. , Kanjerla Kiran Kumar , Mysore Sai Kumar
Published: August 2024

Background

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) continues to pose a significant burden on global health, particularly in socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. We present the case of a 38-year-old woman with severe multivalvular RHD and giant atria, highlighting the challenges and complexities of managing this condition.

Case presentation

The patient presented with progressively worsening dyspnoea, signs of right heart failure, and severe valvular abnormalities. Diagnostic evaluations revealed severe mixed mitral valve disease in the form of mitral stenosis and regurgitation, along with involvement of the aortic and tricuspid valves, leading to significant enlargement of both atria. Despite facing socioeconomic constraints and poor adherence to treatment, the patient underwent successful surgical intervention, resulting in remarkable symptomatic improvement.

Conclusions

Through this case, we emphasise the importance of early detection, comprehensive management strategies, and multidisciplinary care in addressing the complexities of RHD. Despite the challenges posed by socioeconomic disparities, positive outcomes can be achieved with timely diagnosis and appropriate intervention. This case underscores the need for targeted efforts to improve access to healthcare resources and reduce the global burden of RHD.
Swollen speech: a case study of tongue abscess detected via imaging technology
Authors: Rudrakshi Anusha , Ramdurg Praveenkumar , Naveen S.
Published: August 2024

Background

A tongue abscess is a rare but serious condition marked by a localized accumulation of pus within the tongue’s tissues. Despite the tongue’s frequent exposure to trauma, bites, and foreign objects, it typically resists infections. However, an acute lingual abscess can be life-threatening due to the risk of airway obstruction from tongue swelling. Common symptoms include increasing pain, fever, swelling, immobility, edema, and redness of the tongue. The case report aimed to highlight the unusual clinical presentation and location of a deep-seated abscess in the anterior third of the tongue, as well as the radiographic approach to diagnosing the lesion.

Case presentation

A 30-year-old female patient presented with sudden onset tongue pain and swelling persisting for 4–5 days. Clinical examination revealed a solitary diffuse swelling in the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, approximately 3 × 2 cm in size. Diagnostic imaging, including a plain radiograph, ultrasound (USG), and MRI, was conducted. The patient was hospitalized for incision and drainage of the abscess, followed by a 5-day course of intravenous antibiotics.

Conclusions

A tongue abscess, though rare, is a serious condition indicated by tongue swelling, pain, fever, dysphagia, and dyspnea. Diagnosis involves physical examinations and imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI. Immediate treatment includes maintaining airway patency, draining the abscess, and administering broad-spectrum antibiotics. Prompt recognition and treatment are essential to prevent severe complications such as airway obstruction and sepsis. Regular follow-up ensures complete resolution and prevents recurrence.
Group dialectical behaviour therapy for adolescents with emotional dysregulation and maladaptive coping: pilot implementation in Qatar
Authors: Khan Yasser Saeed , Mathew Sruthi , Jasem AlMeraisi May , Alabdulla Majid
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a pioneering pilot implementation of group dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) for adolescents with maladaptive coping in Qatar's child and adolescent mental health services. The project highlights the positive effect on patient satisfaction and the potential for early intervention with adolescents displaying emotional dysregulation. This pioneering initiative was consistent with local cultural values, stressing the importance of interconnectedness in mental health interventions. The impact of the initiative stresses its significance in diverse cultural contexts, urging further adoption regionally for improved mental health outcomes, particularly among adolescents displaying features of an emerging emotionally unstable personality disorder.
Mild Cold Stress at Ambient Temperature Elevates Muscle Calcium Cycling and Exercise Adaptations in Obese Female Mice
Authors: Raun Steffen H , Braun Jessica L , Karavaeva Iuliia , Henriquez-Olguín Carlos , Ali Mona S , Møller Lisbeth L V , Gerhart-Hines Zachary , Fajardo Val A , Richter Erik A , Sylow Lykke
Published: August 2024

Context

Housing temperature is a critical regulator of mouse metabolism and thermoneutral housing can improve model translation to humans. However, the impact of housing temperature on the ability of wheel running exercise training to rescue the detrimental effect of diet-induced obese mice is currently not fully understood.

Objective

To investigate how housing temperature affects muscle metabolism in obese mice with regard to calcium handling and exercise training (ET) adaptations in skeletal muscle, and benefits of ET on adiposity and glucometabolic parameters.

Methods

Lean or obese female mice were housed at standard ambient temperature (22 °C) or thermoneutrality (30 °C) with/without access to running wheels. The metabolic phenotype was investigated using glucose tolerance tests, indirect calorimetry, and body composition. Molecular muscle adaptations were measured using immunoblotting, qPCR, and spectrophotometric/fluorescent assays.

Results

Obese female mice housed at 22 °C showed lower adiposity, lower circulating insulin levels, improved glucose tolerance, and elevated basal metabolic rate compared to 30 °C housing. Mice exposed to voluntary wheel running exhibited a larger fat loss and higher metabolic rate at 22 °C housing compared to thermoneutrality. In obese female mice, glucose tolerance improved after ET independent of housing temperature. Independent of diet and training, 22 °C housing increased skeletal muscle sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) activity. Additionally, housing at 22 °C elevated the induction of training-responsive muscle proteins in obese mice.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight that housing temperature significantly influences adiposity, insulin sensitivity, muscle physiology, and exercise adaptations in diet-induced obese female mice.
Cointegration and causality relationship of Indian stock market with selected world markets
Authors: Ali Farman , Suri Pradeep , Kaur Tarunpreet , Bisht Deepa
Published: August 2024

Background: The purpose of this study is to explore the trends and causes of established and emerging nations’ stock market integration with India. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) indices act as a counterweight to international market indices. This study investigates the sustained interest of foreign investors in the Indian stock market in the wake of capital market reforms, as well as whether it moves in tandem with other markets in Asia and the United States. Methods: Our study examined the possibility of cross-country cointegration between the largest economies and indices around the world using multiple financial econometric models, such as Augmented Dickey-Fuller, Unit Root, Correlation, and Johansen Cointegration. Results: The findings of this study significantly support the notion that Indian and international financial markets are highly integrated. Vector error correction model indicates that the Indian market (NSE) is highly cointegrated with the US market (National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations) and increased volatility signifies global contagion. Conclusion: A cursory examination of the data reveals distinct investment and portfolio diversification options for global investors. This could assist regulators in formulating more effective rules regarding price discovery processes.
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) reduced expression of Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 3 (SCUBE3) and Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in visceral pleural tissue cultures of patients with empyema
Authors: Riendra Muhammad , Lipoeto Nur Indrawaty , Rita Rauza Sukma , Basyar Masrul
Published: August 2024

Abstract* Background Increased expression of signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 3 (SCUBE3) and Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been thought to influence the fibrosis process in many tissues. However, increased expression of these two factors has never been assessed in pleural fibrosis. Pleural fibrosis is a disease that usually results from various infectious processes, such as empyema. Fibrosis formation is recently known to be prevented by Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is the most potent active substance found in Gambir (Uncaria gambir Roxb) leaves. Thus, further research is needed to determine the potential of EGCG to inhibit the process of pleural fibrosis caused by empyema. Methods An in vitro experimental study with post test-only controlled group was conducted on the pleural tissue of all patients who underwent decortication surgery due to empyema at Dr. M. Djamil Hospital, Padang, Indonesia between March 1st and April 30, 2024. Case samples were obtained by consecutive sampling, and three patients who met the inclusion criteria were obtained. Pleural tissue in each patient was then divided into several groups based on the treatment, namely the control group, 50 μg EGCG administration group, and 100 μg EGCG administration group. We used to determine SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 genes expression. Data were tested using ANOVA and Least Significant Difference (LSD) tests. Results There were significant differences in the SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 genes expression of 50 μg and 100 μg EGCG administration groups and the control groups in the 2 × 2 cm sample preparation (p=0.002) (p=0.014, respectively). Significant differences in TGF-β1 expression were also found between the groups treated with EGCG 50 μg and 100 μg and the control group in the 1 × 1 cm preparation (p=0.019). Conclusion EGCG can potentially decrease SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 expression in patients with pleural empyema.
Key Guidelines for Responding to Reviewers
Authors: Hidouri Saida , Kamoun Hela , Salah Sana , Jellad Anis , Ben Saad Helmi
Published: August 2024

Background The process of preparing a scientific manuscript is intricate, encompassing several critical stages, including pre-writing, research development, drafting, peer review, editing, publication, dissemination, and access. Among these, the peer review process (PRP) stands out as a pivotal component requiring seamless collaboration among editors, reviewers, and authors. Reviewers play a crucial role in assessing the manuscript’s quality and providing constructive feedback, which authors must adeptly navigate to enhance their work and meet journal standards. This process can often appear daunting and time-consuming, as authors are required to address numerous comments and requested changes. Authors are encouraged to perceive reviewers as consultants rather than adversaries, viewing their critiques as opportunities for improvement rather than personal attacks. Methods Opinion article. Aim To equip authors with practical strategies for engaging effectively in the PRP and improving their publication acceptance rates. Results Key guidelines include thoroughly understanding and prioritizing feedback, maintaining professionalism, and systematically addressing each comment. In cases of significant disagreement or misunderstanding, authors have the option to refer the issue to the editor. Crafting a well-organized and scientific “response to reviews” along with the revised manuscript can substantially increase the likelihood of acceptance. Best practices for writing an effective response to reviews include expressing gratitude, addressing major revisions first, seeking opinions from co-authors and colleagues, and adhering strictly to journal guidelines. Emphasizing the importance of planning responses, highlighting changes in the revised manuscript, and conducting a final review ensures all corrections are properly documented. Conclusion By following these guidelines, authors can enhance their manuscripts’ quality, foster positive relationships with reviewers, and ultimately contribute to scholarly advancement.
Code and Data Repository for Cost-Effective Acquisition of First-Party Data for Business Analytics
Authors: Liu Xiaoping , Li Xiao-Bai
Published: August 2024

This archive is distributed in association with the INFORMS Journal on Computing under the MIT License.
Factors influencing nurses’ use of maggot debridement therapy
Authors: Redford Katie , Murphy Kevin , Hill Barry
Published: August 2024

Management of hard-to-heal wounds remains a significant challenge for healthcare systems, with substantial economic burdens. Maggot debridement therapy, using sterile larvae of Lucilia sericata, effectively debrides necrotic tissue and promotes healing, yet its use is limited. This narrative review examines the influences on the use of this form of debridement by registered nurses, focusing on knowledge and attitudes, treatment-related pain, and practical issues. Findings indicate that wound specialist nurses are more knowledgeable and supportive of maggot debridement therapy compared with non-wound specialists, underscoring the need for targeted educational interventions. Pain management is critical, with mixed reports on pain levels, highlighting the necessity for tailored pain-relief strategies. Practical challenges include procurement difficulties and cost, suggesting a need for streamlined processes and clear clinical guidelines. Addressing these barriers through education, research, and improved logistics could enhance the acceptance and use of maggot debridement therapy, improving patient outcomes in wound management.
Amniotic membrane in wound healing: new perspectives
Authors: Corrêa Maria Eduarda Anastácio Borgês , Silveira Paulo Cesar Lock
Published: August 2024

There are several reasons for skin damage, including genetic factors, disorders, acute trauma, hard-to-heal wounds, or surgical interventions. Whatever the cause, wounds have a substantial impact on people who experience them, their caregivers and the healthcare system. Advanced wound care products have been researched and developed, providing an opportunity for faster and more complete healing. Tissue engineering (TE) is a promising strategy that can overcome limitations when choosing a graft for a wound. Amniotic membrane is a highly abundant, readily available, and inexpensive biological tissue that does not raise ethical concerns, with many applications in different fields of TE and regenerative medicine. It has attractive physical characteristics, such as elasticity, rigidity and mechanical strength, among others. The effects can also be potentiated by association with other substances, such as hyaluronic acid and growth factors. This paper describes new perspectives involving the use of amniotic membranes.
Treatment of bacterially contaminated lower extremity ulcers with a fatty acid-containing wound matrix: a case series
Authors: Cole Windy
Published: August 2024

Objective:

The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a marine omega fatty acid-containing multimodal wound matrix (MWM) in reducing bacterial contamination and supporting wound area reduction (WAR) in patients with hard-to-heal wounds of varying aetiologies.

Method:

A prospective, single-site, pilot case series of patients with hard-to-heal wounds. All wounds were considered non-healing prior to inclusion as they had failed to achieve at least 50% WAR after at least four weeks of standard of care (SoC) treatments. Patients were seen once weekly for wound assessments, matrix application and dressing changes. Baseline and weekly fluorescence images, standard wound images and wound measurements were obtained.

Results:

A total of three patients, two with venous leg ulcers (VLUs) and one with a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) were enrolled in this pilot study. The mean baseline wound age prior to study enrolment was 24 weeks, with a mean baseline wound size of 8.61cm2. The two VLUs went on to complete closure. The DFU displayed a total WAR of 53% by six weeks, when the patient was lost to follow-up due to a geographical relocation. The mean percentage area reduction of all wounds combined was 82% upon study completion.

Conclusion:

The use of MWM proved to be effective and safe in this patient cohort. The wounds included in this case series failed to enter a healing trajectory with SoC wound therapies. The MWM supported wound closure and reduced bacterial loads in this patient cohort.
District-level Study of Uttar Pradesh Based on the MCDM Approach
Authors: Sharma Sumedha , Kumar Jitendra , Singh Niraj Kumar , Kumar Anup
Published: August 2024

Development and population are two crucial and complex areas of study for the researchers. They depend on many variables such as demography, economic status, nutritional status of the child and women, etc. This research aims to determine the best districts by evaluating them against eight specific criteria that reflect the demographic composition of women and children in Uttar Pradesh (UP).
The identification of the criteria of the variables is determined by various factors such as education, security & threat, gender equality, and health dimensions within the districts of UP, India. To achieve this we attempted to implement the multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods comprehensibly. This study has presented an impartial assessment of the performance of 75 districts in UP. The methodology included a technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) and multi-objective optimization based on ratio analysis (MOORA). Data on demographic and educational parameters were collected from the most recent published report of the national family health survey (NFHS-5) and various online portals & platforms of the government of UP. Also, we made an attempt to validate the techniques using a non-parametric statistical test known as Wilcoxon sign rank test. TOPSIS and MOORA were identified as two most popular MCDM techniques for demography research. Interestingly, we found districts namely, (Agra, Kanpur Nagar, Moradabad), Lucknow and Shrawasti as outliers with respect to variables area(A3), CAW(A5) and TFR(A6) respectively that need to be dealt with careful attention and effective measures has to be taken. The study provides useful information on the demographic characteristics of districts in UP and possibly provide the basis to our policymakers for designing the targeted interventions to improve the social and economic indicators of the State.
European Union gender equality and work–life balance policies: managing tensions between the demands of production and reproduction
Authors: Zacharenko Elena
Published: August 2024

European Union (EU) gender equality policies increasingly acknowledge the existence of tensions between the demands of productive and reproductive labour, with the former defined as waged work and the latter as the (unpaid) activities reproducing the labour force and provisioning for caring needs. As women increasingly enter the labour market, the EU addresses the growing tensions through new gender equality policy initiatives, prompting the question of whether these recognise the value of reproductive labour to the economy. This article analyses the discourses of three EU institutions (the European Commission, Council of the EU and European Parliament) and finds that EU policy as a whole continues to prioritise the interests of the productive economy. This results in a loss of the emancipatory potential of its gender equality goals, in particular, for women from working-class, minority ethnic or migration backgrounds.
Sabotaging ordoliberal communitarianism: for a critical discursive political economy of ‘the local community’ in neoliberal Europe
Authors: Nicoletta Gerardo Costabile
Published: August 2024

The commentary aims to provoke a discussion in Critical Political Economy (CPE) about local articulations of neoliberalism, proposing the concept of ordoliberal communitarianism as a theoretical practice to sabotage the hegemonic essentialisation of ‘the local community’ within the context of EU neoliberal constitutionalism. This conceptual proposal is a plea to critical scholars who assume a pre-existing local community to instead enquire from whom, how and why the necessity of appealing to ‘the local community’ emerges to strategically essentialise socio-historically contingent political forms. To support this argument, I first discuss the relationship between ‘the community’ and the global political economy by combining sociology of knowledge, CPE and governmentality studies. This discussion leads to a consideration of ordoliberal communitarianism as produced by and through dominant institutions and translating hegemonic concepts in and through local contexts. As an indicative case emerging from research on the interpellation of local communities in the current Italian competitive strategy, I offer some notes for a history of Italian ordoliberal communitarianism as a transnational socio-historical experience to investigate the formation of local developmental coalitions led by EU governance. The commentary concludes by recalling the role of critical scholars in semantically sabotaging the hegemonic essentialisation of ‘the local community’.