bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating health service availability and readiness for antenatal testing and treatment for HIV and syphilis in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Saweri Olga PM , Batura Neha , Pulford Justin , Khan M. Mahmud , Hou Xiaohui , Pomat William S , Vallely Andrew J , Wiseman Virginia
Published: October 2022

Background

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has one of the highest burdens of HIV and syphilis in pregnancy in the Asia-Pacific region. Timely and effective diagnosis can alleviate the burden of HIV and syphilis and improve maternal and newborn health. Supply-side factors related to implementation and scale up remain problematic, yet few studies have considered their impact on antenatal testing and treatment for HIV and syphilis. This study explores health service availability and readiness for antenatal HIV and/or syphilis testing and treatment in PNG.

Methods

Using data from two sources, we demonstrate health service availability and readiness. Service availability is measured at a province level as the average of three indicators: infrastructure, workforce, and antenatal clinic utilization. The readiness score comprises 28 equally weighted indicators across four domains; and is estimated for 73 health facilities. Bivariate and multivariate robust linear regressions explore associations between health facility readiness and the proportion of antenatal clinic attendees tested and treated for HIV and/or syphilis.

Results

Most provinces had fewer than one health facility per 10 000 population. On average, health worker density was 11 health workers per 10 000 population per province, and approximately 22% of pregnant women attended four or more antenatal clinics. Most health facilities had a composite readiness score between 51% and 75%, with urban health facilities faring better than rural ones. The multivariate regression analysis, when controlling for managing authority, catchment population, the number of clinicians employed, health facility type and residence (urban/rural) indicated a weak positive relationship between health facility readiness and the proportion of antenatal clinic attendees tested and treated for HIV and/or syphilis.

Conclusion

This study adds to the limited evidence base for the Asia-Pacific region. There is a need to improve antenatal testing and treatment coverage for HIV and syphilis and reduce healthcare inequalities faced by rural and urban communities. Shortages of skilled health workers, tests, and medicines impede the provision of quality antenatal care. Improving service availability and health facility readiness are key to ensuring the effective provision of antenatal care interventions.
Association between cancer stem cell gene expression signatures and prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Kim Su Il , Woo Seon Rang , Noh Joo Kyung , Lee Min Kyeong , Lee Young Chan , Lee Jung Woo , Kong Moonkyoo , Ko Seong-Gyu , Eun Young-Gyu
Published: October 2022

Background

Various cancer stem cell (CSC) biomarkers and the genes encoding them in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have been identified and evaluated. However, the validity of these factors in the prognosis of HNSCC has been questioned and remains unclear. In this study, we examined the clinical significance of CSC biomarker genes in HNSCC, using five publicly available HNSCC cohorts.

Methods

To predict the prognosis of patients with HNSCC, we developed and validated the expression signatures of CSC biomarker genes whose mRNA expression levels correlated with at least one of the four CSC genes (CD44, MET, ALDH1A1, and BMI1).

Results

Patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) HNSCC cohort were classified into CSC gene expression-associated high-risk (CSC-HR; n = 285) and CSC gene expression-associated low-risk (CSC-LR; n = 281) subgroups. The 5-year overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates were significantly lower in the CSC-HR subgroup than in the CSC-LR subgroup (p = 0.04 and 0.02, respectively). The clinical significance of the CSC gene expression signature was validated using four independent cohorts. Analysis using Cox proportional hazards models showed that the CSC gene expression signature was an independent prognostic factor of non-oropharyngeal HNSCC which mostly indicates HPV (–) status. Furthermore, the CSC gene expression signature was associated with the prognosis of HNSCC patients who received radiotherapy.

Conclusion

The CSC gene expression signature is associated with the prognosis of HNSCC and may help in personalized treatments for patients with HNSCC, especially in cases with HPV (–) status who were classified in more detail.
Recurrence pattern of non-syndromic familial congenital heart diseases among a large cohort of families from Egypt
Authors: Rakha Shaimaa , Mohy-Eldeen Rehab , Al-Haggar Mohammad , El-Bayoumi Mohammed Attia
Published: October 2022

Background

Congenital heart diseases (CHD) are the commonest congenital anomalies with increased risk in children born from families with affected members. However, various recurrence patterns of CHDs have been reported in different populations. Therefore, this work aimed to assess the recurrence patterns of CHDs in a large sample of Egyptian families.

Methods

From January 2020 to October 2021, non-syndromic children with confirmed CHDs were recruited. Data were collected from guardians of the recruited children and hospital records, including the index case’s cardiac diagnosis and CHD diagnosis of other affected family members with to determine their recurrence pattern, consanguinity, and multi-gestation status.

Results

A total of 130 recurrent cases with CHD were documented in 1960 families of children with CHD, including 66,989 members. Most recurrences were detected among first-degree relatives 50/130 (38.46%), especially siblings. Discordant recurrence was the most detected pattern (45.38%), followed by concordant recurrence (42.31%), and the least was group concordance. Recurrence rate was the highest for septal defects with left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) (11.8%) and anomalous venous drainage (11.1%), followed by septal defect with right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO) (9.4%), isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) category (8.2%) and LVOTO (8%). Familial recurrence was significant in consanguineous marriages [p = 0.0001; OR (95%CI) = 4.5 (2.25–9.01)] and in multi-gestations siblings: [p = 0.036; OR (95%CI) = 12.5(1.03–6.04)].

Conclusion

The recurrence of non-syndromic CHD is evident among first-degree relatives in Egyptian families, with mostly a discordant recurrence pattern. Recurrence was more notable in septal defects with LVOTO, anomalous venous drainage, septal defect with RVOTO, isolated VSD, and isolated LVOTO diagnostic categories. This finding will significantly impact family counseling, emphasizing higher recurrence in consanguineous parents.
Does MARPE therapy have effects on intracranial pressure? a clinical study
Authors: Baser Baris , Bolukbasi Merve , Uzlu Dilek , Ozbay Ahmet Duhan
Published: October 2022

Background

We aimed to evaluate possible intracranial pressure (ICP) changes caused by screw activations during active microimplant-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) therapy of post-pubertal individuals by measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) under ultrasonography (US) guidance.

Methods

This study’s participants comprised 15 patients (7 males, 8 females) with posterior crossbite and a mean age of 16.7 years (14.25–20.08 years). The Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE) appliance was used to perform MARPE in all patients. Their vital signs (heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2)) were recorded. The ONSD was measured by US immediately before the first screw activation (T0), and the measurements were repeated 1 min (T1) and 10 min (T2) after the first activation. In the last session of active MARPE therapy, the same measurement protocol was performed as in the first activation session (T3, T4, and T5). The patients’ perceptions of pain during the screw activation were also noted at T1 and T4 using a four-category verbal rating scale (VRS-4). The significant differences among different time intervals performed with the Friedman test (for all tested variables; SpO2, MAP, Heart Rate, VRS-4 and ONSD). Spearman correlation test was used for VRS-4 and ONSD comparisons. The statistical significance level was accepted as p < 0.05.

Results

The ONSD values ​​(T1 and T4) relatively increased within 1 min after screw activation but did not reach a statistically significant level (p > 0.05). There was also no significant difference between the initial (T0) and the final (T5) ONSD values ​​during the active MARPE therapy (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

There is no changes or alterations in intracranial pressure in late adolescents during active MARPE therapy.
NUPR1 contributes to radiation resistance by maintaining ROS homeostasis via AhR/CYP signal axis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhan Yizhi , Zhang Zhanqiao , Liu Yuechen , Fang Yuan , Xie Yuwen , Zheng Yilin , Li Guoxin , Liang Li , Ding Yi
Published: October 2022

Background

Radiotherapy (RT) is one of the major therapeutic approaches to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ionizing radiation (IR) inducing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) leads to a promising antitumor effect. However, the dysregulation of the redox system often causes radioresistance and impairs the efficacy of RT. Increasing evidence indicates that nuclear protein 1 (NUPR1) plays a critical role in redox reactions. In this study, we aim to explore the role of NUPR1 in maintaining ROS homeostasis and radioresistance in HCC.

Methods

The radioresistant role of NUPR1 was determined by colony formation assay, comet assay in vitro, and xenograft tumor models in vivo. Probes for ROS, apoptosis assay, and lipid peroxidation assay were used to investigate the functional effect of NUPR1 on ROS homeostasis and oxidative stress. RNA sequencing and co-immunoprecipitation assay were performed to clarify the mechanism of NUPR1 inhibiting the AhR/CYP signal axis. Finally, we analyzed clinical specimens to assess the predictive value of NUPR1 and AhR in the radiotherapeutic efficacy of HCC.

Results

We demonstrated that NUPR1 was upregulated in HCC tissues and verified that NUPR1 increased the radioresistance of HCC in vitro and in vivo. NUPR1 alleviated the generation of ROS and suppressed oxidative stress, including apoptosis and lipid peroxidation by downregulating cytochrome P450 (CYP) upon IR. ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and CYP inhibitor alizarin restored the viability of NUPR1-knockdown cells during IR. Mechanistically, the interaction between NUPR1 and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) promoted the degradation and decreased nuclear translation of AhR via the autophagy-lysosome pathway, followed by being incapable of CYP’s transcription. Furthermore, genetically and pharmacologically activating AhR abrogated the radioresistant role of NUPR1. Clinical data suggested that NUPR1 and AhR could serve as novel biomarkers for predicting the radiation response of HCC.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed the role of NUPR1 in regulating ROS homeostasis and oxidative stress via the AhR/CYP signal axis upon IR. Strategies targeting the NUPR1/AhR/CYP pathway may have important clinical applications for improving the radiotherapeutic efficacy of HCC.
LLIN Evaluation in Uganda Project (LLINEUP2)—Factors associated with coverage and use of long‑lasting insecticidal nets following the 2020–21 national mass distribution campaign: a cross-sectional survey of 12 districts
Authors: Okiring Jaffer , Gonahasa Samuel , Nassali Martha , Namuganga Jane F. , Bagala Irene , Maiteki‑Sebuguzi Catherine , Opigo Jimmy , Nabende Isaiah , Nangendo Joanita , Kabami Jane , Ssewanyana Isaac , Kiwuwa Steven M. , Nankabirwa Joaniter I. , Dorsey Grant , Briggs Jessica , Kamya Moses R. , Staedke Sarah G.
Published: October 2022

Background

In 2020–2021, long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) were distributed nationwide in Uganda during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 12 districts to evaluate the impact of the campaign 1–5 months after LLIN distribution.

Methods

During April–May 2021, households were randomly selected from target areas (1–7 villages) surrounding 12 government-run health facilities established as Malaria Reference Centres; at least 50 households were enrolled per cluster. Outcomes included household ownership of LLINs distributed through the universal coverage campaign (UCC) (at least one UCC LLIN), adequate coverage of UCC LLINs (at least one UCC LLIN per 2 residents), and use of LLINs (resident slept under a LLIN the previous night). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify household- and individual-level factors associated with outcomes, controlling for clustering around health facilities.

Results

In total, 634 households, with 3342 residents and 1631 bed-nets, were included. Most households (93.4%) owned at least 1 UCC LLIN, but only 56.8% were adequately covered by UCC LLINs. In an adjusted analysis, the factor most strongly associated with adequate coverage by UCC LLINs was fewer household residents (1–4 vs 7–14; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 12.96, 95% CI 4.76–35.26, p < 0.001; 5–6 vs 7–14 residents; aOR 2.99, 95% CI 1.21–7.42, p = 0.018). Of the 3166 residents of households that owned at least one UCC LLIN, only 1684 (53.2%) lived in adequately covered households; 89.9% of these used an LLIN the previous night, compared to 1034 (69.8%) of 1482 residents living in inadequately covered households. In an adjusted analysis, restricted to residents of inadequately covered households, LLIN use was higher in children under-five than those aged 5–15 years (aOR 3.04, 95% CI 2.08–4.46, p < 0.001), and higher in household heads than distantly-related residents (aOR 3.94, 95% CI 2.38–6.51, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Uganda’s 2021–21 campaign was successful, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. In future campaigns, strategies should be adopted to ensure high LLIN coverage, particularly for larger households. A better understanding of the drivers of LLIN use within households is needed to guide future interventions, educational messages, and behaviour change communication strategies; school-aged children and distantly-related residents appear vulnerable and could be targeted.
Circulating N-formylmethionine and metabolic shift in critical illness: a multicohort metabolomics study
Authors: Sigurdsson Martin Ingi , Kobayashi Hirotada , Amrein Karin , Nakahira Kiichi , Rogers Angela J. , Pinilla-Vera Mayra , Baron Rebecca M. , Fredenburgh Laura E. , Lasky-Su Jessica A. , Christopher Kenneth B.
Published: October 2022

Background

Cell stress promotes degradation of mitochondria which release danger-associated molecular patterns that are catabolized toN-formylmethionine. We hypothesized that in critically ill adults, the response toN-formylmethionine is associated with increases in metabolomic shift-related metabolites and increases in 28-day mortality.

Methods

We performed metabolomics analyses on plasma from the 428-subject Correction of Vitamin D Deficiency in Critically Ill Patients trial (VITdAL-ICU) cohort and the 90-subject Brigham and Women’s Hospital Registry of Critical Illness (RoCI) cohort. In the VITdAL-ICU cohort, we analyzed 983 metabolites at Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, day 3, and 7. In the RoCI cohort, we analyzed 411 metabolites at ICU admission. The association betweenN-formylmethionine and mortality was determined by adjusted logistic regression. The relationship between individual metabolites andN-formylmethionine abundance was assessed with false discovery rate correction via linear regression, linear mixed-effects, and Gaussian graphical models.

Results

Patients with the top quartile ofN-formylmethionine abundance at ICU admission had a significantly higher adjusted odds of 28-day mortality in the VITdAL-ICU (OR, 2.4; 95%CI 1.5–4.0;P = 0.001) and RoCI cohorts (OR, 5.1; 95%CI 1.4–18.7;P = 0.015). Adjusted linear regression shows that with increases inN-formylmethionine abundance at ICU admission, 55 metabolites have significant differences common to both the VITdAL-ICU and RoCI cohorts. With increasedN-formylmethionine abundance, both cohorts had elevations in individual short-chain acylcarnitine, branched chain amino acid, kynurenine pathway, and pentose phosphate pathway metabolites.

Conclusions

The results indicate that circulatingN-formylmethionine promotes a metabolic shift with heightened mortality that involves incomplete mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation, increased branched chain amino acid metabolism, and activation of the pentose phosphate pathway.

Graphic Abstract
Adenylate cyclase A amplification and functional diversification during Polyspondylium pallidum development
Authors: Kawabe Yoshinori , Schaap Pauline
Published: October 2022

Background

In Dictyostelium discoideum (Ddis), adenylate cyclase A (ACA) critically generates the cAMP oscillations that coordinate aggregation and morphogenesis. Unlike group 4 species like Ddis, other groups do not use extracellular cAMP to aggregate. However, deletion of cAMP receptors (cARs) or extracellular phosphodiesterase (PdsA) in Polyspondylium pallidum (Ppal, group 2) blocks fruiting body formation, suggesting that cAMP oscillations ancestrally control post-aggregative morphogenesis. In group 2, the acaA gene underwent several duplications. We deleted the three Ppal aca genes to identify roles for either gene and tested whether Ppal shows transient cAMP-induced cAMP accumulation, which underpins oscillatory cAMP signalling.

Results

In contrast to Ddis, pre-aggregative Ppal cells did not produce a pulse of cAMP upon stimulation with the cAR agonist 2′H-cAMP, but acquired this ability after aggregation. Deletion of Ppal aca1, aca2 and aca3 yielded different phenotypes. aca1ˉ cells showed relatively thin stalks, aca2ˉ showed delayed secondary sorogen formation and aca3ˉ formed less aggregation centers. The aca1ˉaca2ˉ and aca1ˉaca3ˉ mutants combined individual defects, while aca2ˉaca3ˉ and aca1ˉaca3ˉaca2ˉ additionally showed > 24 h delay in aggregation, with only few aggregates with fragmenting streams being formed. The fragments developed into small fruiting bodies with stalk and spore cells. Aggregation was restored in aca2ˉaca3ˉ and aca1ˉaca3ˉaca2ˉ by 2.5 mM 8Br-cAMP, a membrane-permeant activator of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA). Like Ddis, Ppal sorogens also express the adenylate cyclases ACR and ACG. We found that prior to aggregation, Ddis acaˉ/ACG cells produced a pulse of cAMP upon stimulation with 2′H-cAMP, indicating that cAMP oscillations may not be dependent on ACA alone.

Conclusions

The three Ppal replicates of acaA perform different roles in stalk morphogenesis, secondary branch formation and aggregation, but act together to enable development by activating PKA. While even an aca1ˉaca3ˉaca2ˉ mutant still forms (some) fruiting bodies, suggesting little need for ACA-induced cAMP oscillations in this process, we found that ACG also mediated transient cAMP-induced cAMP accumulation. It, therefore, remains likely that post-aggregative Ppal morphogenesis is organized by cAMP oscillations, favouring a previously proposed model, where cAR-regulated cAMP hydrolysis rather than its synthesis dominates oscillatory behaviour.
Acquired pure red cell aplasia after severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 infection: a case report
Authors: Karrat Imane , Eddou Hicham
Published: October 2022

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019, caused by severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2, has been responsible, since December 2019, for a severe pandemic resulting in millions of deaths worldwide, and the number is still increasing. Although coronavirus disease 2019 is mostly a respiratory syndrome, it is considered a multisystemic disease and shows clinical diversity with a wide range of manifestations including hematological features.

Case presentation

We present the case of an Arab male, 77 years old, who developed severe anemia 8 weeks after acute infection with severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2. The investigations revealed acquired pure red cell aplasia. Workup for an associated underlying disorder was negative, ruling out secondary causes. The patient received corticosteroids as the standard treatment of primary acquired pure red cell aplasia, and he had a good response to treatment.

Conclusion

This case illustrates that acquired pure red cell aplasia might occur weeks after severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 infection, suggesting that it might be considered a delayed complication of coronavirus disease 2019. The most relevant hypothesis of the pathogenesis of acquired pure red cell aplasia, in this case, is an immune mechanism triggered by infection with severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 resulting in interruption of normal erythroid differentiation. We highlight the importance of follow-up care after the acute phase of coronavirus disease 2019 to spot late complications in order to successfully manage the secondary burden of the pandemic.
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita in a child with congenital fractures: a case report
Authors: Dayasiri Kavinda , Jayaweera Heshan
Published: October 2022

Background

Bruck syndrome is an exceedingly rare form of osteogenesis imperfecta, inherited autosomal recessively and presenting with the concurrence of bone fragility and congenital contractures of large joints. The disease usually progresses relentlessly to result in recurrent fractures, short stature, severe kyphoscoliosis, and susceptibility to recurrent respiratory tract infections.

Case presentation

The index child was a male newborn to healthy, nonconsanguineous, Sinhalese parents. The child had multiple contractures involving all large joints with pterigium formation in addition to congenital fractures involving left humerus and ulna at birth. The phenotypic features in this child were highly suggestive of Bruck syndrome. Genetic counseling was offered to the parents, although specific genetic testing could not be undertaken due to lack of resources. Bone and skin biopsy were not performed since only palliative care was possible. Over the course, he developed recurrent severe chest infections due to poor muscle tone, weak cough reflex, and pooling of secretions. Unfortunately, he succumbed at the age of 7 months following severe pneumonia.

Conclusion

The association of arthrogryposis with osteogenesis imperfecta is extremely rare and known as Bruck syndrome. Early diagnosis during the antenatal period is helpful in genetic counseling, assessment of severity, and exploration of therapeutic options
Macroglossia and less advanced dystrophic change in the tongue muscle of the Duchenne muscular dystrophy rat
Authors: Yamanouchi Keitaro , Tanaka Yukie , Ikeda Masanari , Kato Shizuka , Okino Ryosuke , Nishi Hiroki , Hakuno Fumihiko , Takahashi Shin-Ichiro , Chambers James , Matsuwaki Takashi , Uchida Kazuyuki
Published: October 2022

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked muscle disease caused by a complete lack of dystrophin, which stabilizes the plasma membrane of myofibers. The orofacial function is affected in an advanced stage of DMD and this often leads to an eating disorder such as dysphagia. Dysphagia is caused by multiple etiologies including decreased mastication and swallowing. Therefore, preventing the functional declines of mastication and swallowing in DMD is important to improve the patient’s quality of life. In the present study, using a rat model of DMD we generated previously, we performed analyses on the masseter and tongue muscles, both are required for proper eating function.

Methods

Age-related changes of the masseter and tongue muscle of DMD rats were analyzed morphometrically, histologically, and immunohistochemically. Also, transcription of cellular senescent markers, and utrophin (Utrn), a functional analog of dystrophin, was examined.

Results

The masseter muscle of DMD rats showed progressive dystrophic changes as observed in their hindlimb muscle, accompanied by increased transcription of p16 and p19. On the other hand, the tongue of DMD rats showed macroglossia due to hypertrophy of myofibers with less dystrophic changes. Proliferative activity was preserved in the satellite cells from the tongue muscle but was perturbed severely in those from the masseter muscle. While Utrn transcription was increased in the masseter muscle of DMD rats compared to WT rats, probably due to a compensatory mechanism, its level in the tongue muscle was comparable between WT and DMD rats and was similar to that in the masseter muscle of DMD rats.

Conclusions

Muscular dystrophy is less advanced in the tongue muscle compared to the masseter muscle in the DMD rat.
Importance of male partner’s involvement in prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta analysis until June 2021
Authors: Zewude Shimeles Biru , Dagne Asrat Hailu , Ajebe Tewodros Magegnet
Published: October 2022

Background

To promote the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV/AIDS male partners play a significant role, especially in developing country were men’s are a decision maker in domestic activity. When men are involved in PMTCT it would boost the service utilization and uptake of ART drugs. Thus this systematic review and Meta analysis aims to assess importance of male partner involvement in prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia.

Methods

Studies were accessed through an electronic web-based search mechanism from PubMed, Advanced Google Scholar, WHO databases and journals (African Health Monitor, Pan African Journal of Public Health), using independent and combinations of key terms together with a reference list of included studies. Two reviewers independently screened and assessed the quality of studies based on pre-specified criteria. When a disagreement between the two reviewers happened; the third reviewer was invited and resolve it based on the stated objectives and inclusion criteria. Measures of effects were pooled and random effect meta analysis was conducted.

Results

Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of male involvement in PMTCT was 31.8% (95% CI; 22.3–41.3 I2 = 98.4%, p = 0.00). being urban residence(AOR = 2.43 95%CI;1.42–4.18), partner knowledge (AOR = 2.84 95%CI;1.90–4.22), knowledge on Antenatal care(AOR = 3.5 95%CI;1.80–6.76), partners who had no negative perception towards for PMTCT (AOR = 3.21 95%CI;2.18–4.72), government employee(AOR = 2.57 95%CI;1.76–3.75), partners informed of need to go for PMTCT(AOR = 3.83 95%CI;1.88–7.79), health institution related barriers(AOR = 2.6 95%CI;1.882–3.622), primary (AOR = 2.21 95%CI;1.29–3.80), and secondary education(AOR = 2.67 95%CI;1.69–4.19) were significant factors related with male partner involvement in prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS.

Conclusion

The proportion of male involvement in the Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Ethiopia was low. Interventions aimed at improving male participation in the Prevention of mother-to-child transmission should consider the factors related to it. Healthcare services may need to be inclusive and could help men active engagement in PMTCT programs.
TRIM family contribute to tumorigenesis, cancer development, and drug resistance
Authors: Huang Ning , Sun Xiaolin , Li Peng , liu Xin , Zhang Xuemei , Chen Qian , Xin Hong
Published: October 2022

The tripartite-motif (TRIM) family represents one of the largest classes of putative single protein RING-finger E3 ubiquitin ligases. TRIM family is involved in a variety of cellular signaling transductions and biological processes. TRIM family also contributes to cancer initiation, progress, and therapy resistance, exhibiting oncogenic and tumor-suppressive functions in different human cancer types. Moreover, TRIM family members have great potential to serve as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. In this review, we focus on the specific mechanisms of the participation of TRIM family members in tumorigenesis, and cancer development including interacting with dysregulated signaling pathways such as JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT, TGF-β, NF-κB, Wnt/β-catenin, and p53 hub. In addition, many studies have demonstrated that the TRIM family are related to tumor resistance; modulate the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, and guarantee the acquisition of cancer stem cells (CSCs) phenotype. In the end, we havediscussed the potential of TRIM family members for cancer therapeutic targets.
How pom cheerleading improves the executive function of preschool children: the mediating role of speed and agility
Authors: Wang Heng , Ge Wanying , Zhu Chenyang , Sun Yafang , Wei Shuguang
Published: October 2022

Physical exercises can improve individuals’ physical health and cognition, but the internal influence path is unclear. This study aims to examine the influence of pom cheerleading training on physical fitness and executive function of preschool children and explore the relationship between sports training, physical fitness, and executive function. We selected seventy-one preschool children and divided them into the experimental group (n = 36) and the control group (n = 35). The experimental group kept a 12-week pom cheerleading training, and the exercises of the control group remained normal. Children’s physical fitness and executive function were tested, in one week before and after the experiment, respectively. Results of repeated measurements analysis of variance and structural equation model test showed: (1) after 12-week pom cheerleading training, in terms of physical fitness, the experimental group has a significant improvement over the control group on agility and speed; in terms of executive function, the inhibitory control and working memory of the experimental group were significantly enhanced over the control group. (2) Speed quality plays a partial mediating role between pom cheerleading training and inhibitory control; agility plays a major mediating role between pom cheerleading training and working memory. It is concluded that physical exercise can directly improve preschool children’s executive function, and indirectly enhance executive function mediated by physical fitness. Furthermore, structured and systematic physical education should be adopted for preschool children to cultivate their interest in sports and enhance their cognition.
Anger instability and aggression in Borderline Personality Disorder – an ecological momentary assessment study
Authors: Neukel Corinne , Bullenkamp Robin , Moessner Markus , Spiess Karen , Schmahl Christian , Bertsch Katja , Herpertz Sabine C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Anger and aggression are core features of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), contributing strongly to the individual as well as the societal burden caused by the disorder. Across studies, patients with BPD have shown increased, more frequent and prolonged episodes of anger and reported an increased prevalence of reactive aggression. However, only a few studies have investigated anger and aggression in the patients’ everyday lives and did not consider anger instability. In order to contribute knowledge about aggression and its association with anger intensity and anger instability in real-life in BPD the aim of the present study was to better characterize days with and without aggressive behaviors with regard to the patients’ experienced anger.

Methods

Patients with BPD and high aggression as well as healthy participants took part in an ecological momentary assessment (EMA) study assessing state anger and aggression three times per day over two weeks. Multilevel modeling was conducted and anger instability was operationalized by squared successive differences.

Results

As expected, patients with BPD reported greater instability in their experienced anger compared to healthy participants. Most interestingly, in the BPD group the occurrence of aggressive behavior was significantly associated with anger intensity as well as anger instability. More precisely, on days when patients with BPD acted out aggressively, they reported higher anger intensity as well as greater anger instability than on days when they did not act out aggressively.

Conclusion

Knowledge about what characterizes days with aggressive behaviors may help to improve interventions to reduce aggressive behavior and thus relieve the burden aggression causes for patients with BPD, their surroundings and society.
Long-term delayed emergence after remimazolam-based general anesthesia: a case report
Authors: Takemori Tsubasa , Oyama Yoshimasa , Makino Takenori , Hidaka Seigo , Kitano Takaaki
Published: October 2022

Background

Remimazolam is an ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine anesthetic that is antagonized by flumazenil, and it is typically expected to be applied in anesthesia with the purpose of ensuring early postoperative recovery. We report a case of long-term delayed emergence with re-sedation even after three times of flumazenil administration.

Case presentation

A 71-year-old man was scheduled for a robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer. We used remimazolam for anesthetic induction and maintenance. The intraoperative bispectral index (BIS) was 30–50. Flumazenil was administered as patient emergence was delayed after surgery; however, re-sedation was observed. This finding persisted till 12 h after surgery, and the patient awakened on postoperative day 2.

Conclusions

Remimazolam is a short-acting anesthetic, but long-term delayed emergence with re-sedation may occur even after flumazenil administration. Anesthesia using remimazolam requires anesthesia management that takes into account the individual differences in sensitivity and metabolism, with BIS as the indicator.
Development and validation of personalised risk prediction models for early detection and diagnosis of primary liver cancer among the English primary care population using the QResearch® database: research protocol and statistical analysis plan
Authors: Liao Weiqi , Jepsen Peter , Coupland Carol , Innes Hamish , Matthews Philippa C. , Campbell Cori , Barnes Eleanor , Hippisley-Cox Julia ,   on behalf of the DeLIVER consortium
Published: October 2022

Background and research aim

The incidence and mortality of liver cancer have been increasing in the UK in recent years. However, liver cancer is still under-studied. The Early Detection of Hepatocellular Liver Cancer (DeLIVER-QResearch) project aims to address the research gap and generate new knowledge to improve early detection and diagnosis of primary liver cancer from general practice and at the population level. There are three research objectives: (1) to understand the current epidemiology of primary liver cancer in England, (2) to identify and quantify the symptoms and comorbidities associated with liver cancer, and (3) to develop and validate prediction models for early detection of liver cancer suitable for implementation in clinical settings.

Methods

This population-based study uses the QResearch® database (version 46) and includes adult patients aged 25–84 years old and without a diagnosis of liver cancer at the cohort entry (study period: 1 January 2008–30 June 2021). The team conducted a literature review (with additional clinical input) to inform the inclusion of variables for data extraction from the QResearch database. A wide range of statistical techniques will be used for the three research objectives, including descriptive statistics, multiple imputation for missing data, conditional logistic regression to investigate the association between the clinical features (symptoms and comorbidities) and the outcome, fractional polynomial terms to explore the non-linear relationship between continuous variables and the outcome, and Cox/competing risk regression for the prediction model. We have a specific focus on the 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year absolute risks of developing liver cancer, as risks at different time points have different clinical implications. The internal–external cross-validation approach will be used, and the discrimination and calibration of the prediction model will be evaluated.

Discussion

The DeLIVER-QResearch project uses large-scale representative population-based data to address the most relevant research questions for early detection and diagnosis of primary liver cancer in England. This project has great potential to inform the national cancer strategic plan and yield substantial public and societal benefits.
Management of chyluria using percutaneous thoracic duct stenting
Authors: Cuong Nguyen Ngoc , Linh Le Tuan , My Thieu Thi Tra , Hoa Tran Quoc , Long Hoang , Hoan Le , Inoue Masanori
Published: October 2022

Background

Thoracic duct stenosis or obstruction is one of the causes of chyluria. Although the diagnosis of chyluria is not difficult, treatment is still challenging. Although there have been no standard guidelines for the treatment of chyluria, interventional techniques now offer minimally invasive treatment options for chyluria such as interstitial lymphatic embolization, ductoplasty with balloon, or thoracic duct stenting.

Case presentation 

Here, we report a case of chyluria due to obstruction of the junction between the thoracic duct and subclavian vein in a 64 -year- old female patient. The patient was treated with balloon plasty for lymphovenous junction obstruction and interstitial lymphatic embolization for chyluria. However, chyluria was recurrent after 6 months so intranodal lymphangiography was performed. Anterograde thoracic duct was accessed through a transabdominal to the cisterna chyli which showed that the thoracic venous junction was re-obstruction. The patient was successfully treated by placing a uncovered drug-eluting stent with the size of 2.5 mm x 15 mm in length for resolving the thoracic occlusion.

Conclusion

This report demonstrates the feasibility of using thoracic duct stenting in the treatment chyluria due to lymphovenous junction obstruction.
Introduction of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) gene does not reduce potassium use efficiency of Bt transgenic cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: WANG Qianqian , YAN Wei , ZHANG Yichi , ZHAN Manman , LUO Xiaoli , ENEJI A. Egrinya , ZHANG Anhong , XIAO Juanli , LI Fangjun , TIAN Xiaoli
Published: October 2022

Background

Potassium (K) deficiency has become a common field production problem following the widespread adoption of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) transgenic cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) worldwide. The purpose of this study was to clarify whether the introduction of Bt gene directly reduces the K-use efficiency of cotton to induce K deficiency.

Results

The cotton variety, Jihe 321 (wild type, WT) and its two Bt (Cry1Ac)-transgenic overexpression lines (OE-29317, OE-29312) were studied in field with low soil-test K+ (47.8 mg·kg−1). In the field with low soil-test K+, only OE-29317 had less biomass and K+ accumulation than the WT at some growth stages. Both Bt lines produced similar or even greater seed cotton yield than WT in the field. When the Bt gene (~ 70%) in OE-29317 and OE-29312 plants was silenced by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), the VIGS-Bt plants did not produce more biomass than VIGS-green fluorescent protein (control) plants.

Conclusions

The introduction of Bt gene did not necessarily hinder the K use efficiency of the cotton lines under this study.
Organosilicon leather coating technology based on carbon peak strategy
Authors: Wang Wenkai , Fan Haojun , Song Lijiang , Wang Zhenya , Li Heng , Xiang Jun , Huang Qiang , Chen Xiangquan
Published: October 2022

Based on the demand of carbon peak and carbon emission reduction strategy, divinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (ViPDMSVi), poly(methylhydrosiloxane) (PMHS), divinyl-terminated polymethylvinylsiloxane (ViPMVSVi), and fumed silica were used as primary raw materials, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) synthetic leather coating was in situ constructed by thermally induced hydrosilylation polymerization on the synthetic leather substrate. The effect of the viscosity of ViPDMSVi, the active hydrogen content of PMHS, the molar ratio of vinyl groups to active hydrogen, the dosage of ViPMVSVi and fumed silica on the performance of PDMS polymer coating, including mechanical properties, cold resistance, flexural resistance, abrasion resistance, hydrophobic and anti-fouling properties were investigated. The results show that ViPDMSVi with high vinyl content and PMHS with low active hydrogen content is more conducive to obtaining organosilicon coating with better mechanical properties, the optimized dosage of ViPMVSVi and fumed silica was 7 wt% and 40 wt%, respectively. In this case, the tensile strength and the broken elongation of the PDMS polymer coating reached 5.96 MPa and 481%, showing reasonable mechanical properties for leather coating. Compared with polyurethane based or polyvinyl chloride based synthetic leather, the silicon based synthetic leather prepared by this method exhibits excellent cold resistance, abrasion resistance, super hydrophobicity, and anti-fouling characteristics.

Graphical Abstract
Cognitive impairment in health care workers recovering from COVID-19 infection: a cross-sectional comparative study
Authors: Omar Ahmed Khaled Abd-Elrazzak , Dahesh Salwa M. A. , Ellakwa Doha El-Sayed , Gomaa Mohamed Kamal , Abdulsamad Basma , Hanafy Rana , Al Metwally Hanan G. , Mohammad Ruqia Nour Edin Mohammad , Badawy Samar Saleh , El Saleh Rabab M. , Abdelhafiz Mohammed E. , Gouda Abdalla Mohamed , Seada Showikar Adel Saleh , Amr Marwa M. , Asar Yomna , Alamrawy Roa Gamal
Published: October 2022

Background

The COVID-19 outbreak has infected people all over the world where many clinics are being constructed to diagnose and treat lingering symptoms or long COVID. Neurological and long-term cognitive consequences are very worrisome. Many of COVID-19’s neurological symptoms are likely the result of the body’s extensive immunological response to infection rather than the virus attacking the brain or nervous system directly. At the same time, the extent and type of COVID-19’s cognitive consequences are unknown. The goal of this study was to assess the cognitive functions of healthcare workers 2 weeks to 3 months after COVID-19 infection. Ninety-two healthcare workers participated in the study; 32 were post-COVID-19 cases, and 60 were healthy people (the comparison group). The cognitive functions of the participants were assessed using the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination (ACE-III) test, which evaluated attention, memory, language, and visuospatial skills, as well as the Arabic version of the Patient Health Questionnaire Anxiety GAD-7 and Depression Assessments PHQ-9.

Results

The study revealed that there was a highly significant direct correlation between post-infection with COVID-19 and scores of both anxiety and depression and an inverse correlation in the case of attention and memory. On the other hand, there is no statistical effect of post-COVID-19 on verbal fluency, language scores, and visio-spatial abilities. Using multiple linear regression, there was a powerful significant decrease effect of post-COVID-19 on memory scores controlling both anxiety and depression degrees (Beta = − 0.745, P < 0.001). Also, there was a strong negative correlation post-COVID-19 on attention scores controlling both anxiety and depression degrees (Beta = − 0.745, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The study showed a strong negative effect of post-COVID-19 on the attention and memory of patients. Furthermore, both anxiety and depression scores increased significantly among the post-COVID-19 patients.
Comparison of internal cognitive training versus external cognitive training on mild cognitive impairment among elderly population
Authors: Dagar Asha , Kumar Saurabh , Raghumahanti Raghuveer , Rai Anushree
Published: October 2022

Background

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a common condition in the elderly population. It is characterized by confusion, disorientation, memory complaints, as well as restricted attention, learning, and language abilities.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to compare the effect of internal and external cognitive training in patients with mild cognitive impairment.

Methods

Twenty-six patients with mild cognitive impairment participated in this study. An equal number of participants (n=13) were allocated into two groups, i.e., the internal cognitive training group (group A) and external cognitive training (group B). Cognitive training session was administered 40 min per day, at a frequency of 2 sessions per week, for a period of 4 weeks for both groups, and aerobic exercise was also performed for 15 min per day, for a period of 4 weeks. Outcome measures were undertaken at baseline and at the end of the 4th week.

Results

The result shows a significant improvement on MoCA components in the internal cognitive training group than the external cognitive training group (P<0.05).

Conclusion

It was concluded that the internal cognitive training (ICT) shows significant improvement on mild cognitive impairment in elderly as compared to external cognitive training (ECT).
Quantum phase effects for electrically charged particles: Updated analysis
Authors: Kholmetskii A. L. , Yarman T. , Missevitch O. V.
Published: October 2022

We present an updated analysis of the total expression for the Aharonov-Bohm (AB) phase of a charged particle in an electromagnetic field, which we previously obtained through the superposition principle for quantum phases of charges and dipoles (Sci. Rep., 8 (2018) 11937), and here we re-derive it directly in the framework of the general approach, when the source, the electromagnetic field and the charged particle are quantized. The disclosure of the full set of quantum phase effects for a moving charged particle allows an important update of the wave-particle duality concept by generalizing the de Broglie relationship, where the wave vector associated with the particle is proportional to the vector sum of the mechanical and interactional electromagnetic momenta.
Study of hydromagnetic solitary waves in the Earth's inner magnetosphere via the Adlam-Allen model
Authors: Abbas S. S. , Abbas G. , Allen J. E. , Iqbal Z. , Shamir M.
Published: October 2022

Solitary hydromagnetic waves propagating perpendicular to the ambient magnetic field are nonlinear structures that were first analysed by Adlam and Allen in 1958. Although they were first studied for electron-ion plasmas in the controlled thermonuclear reaction experiment, they can also occur in other plasma media. Satellite observations have confirmed that these large-amplitude hydromagnetic waves are ubiquitous in many space plasma environments. In this paper, using Sagdeev pseudopotential technique, we study the properties of large amplitude hydromagnetic waves using the physical model employed by Adlam-Allen. It is confirmed that the waves exist with Mach numbers within the range from 1 to 2. Applications to observations of di-polarization fronts (DFs) in the Earth's inner magnetosphere are discussed.