bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of health belief model in comprehending diarrheal disease dynamics: a case of cryptosporidiosis in Uganda
Authors: Kankya Clovice , Okello Justine , Wambi Rogers , Ninsiima Lesley Rose , Tubihemukama Methodius , Kulabako Christine Tricia , Asaba Richard , Baguma James Natweta , Munyeme Musso , Muleme James
Published: November 2022

Background

Diarrheal diseases contribute greatly to the reported global childhood mortality and morbidity with related social, economic consequences. This study was conducted to analyze the utilization of the Health Belief Model (HBM) theory to comprehend diarrheal disease dynamics in Uganda.

Methods

Our study utilized a qualitative cross-sectional design among adult livestock farmers in selected farming communities. A total of 80 individuals were recruited and interviewed through Focus Discussion Groups (FDGs) (n = 6) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) (n = 8) to evaluate diarrheal disease dynamics. The scope of dynamics included but not limited to exposure risks, knowledge, and attitudes. Our results were presented using the five (5) constructs of the HBM.

Results

Perceived susceptibility; communities believed that both humans and their animals are at high risk of different kinds of diarrheal infections. The farmers believed that majority of these diarrhea infections are hard to treat especially among animals. Perceived severity; farmers believed that diarrheal diseases are characterized by loss of weight, fever, emaciation, dry eyes, severe prolonged diarrhea and sudden death. Perceived barriers; limited knowledge and misconceptions about the diarrheal infections were great inhibitors to successful disease prevention and control. Self-efficacy; farmers had fear of laxity that interventions being suggested and put in place to curb diarrheal diseases such as cryptosporidiosis would wither away with time thus endemicity of the problem in the community. Modifying factors and cues to action; most of the farmers treat animals by themselves based on; probability, traditional knowledge and previous experience.

Conclusion

Sustained public health interventional activities should therefore be undertaken by both human and animal health sectors with maximum community involvement. Communities suggested the need to increase preventive measures and promote household hygiene efforts to always wash hands with soap and running water in order to reduce the burden of diarrhea diseases such as cryptosporidiosis.
Nutritional deficiency induces nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis via the ATF4-PKM2-AKT signal ﻿axis
Authors: Zhou Ningfeng , Shen Bin , Bai Chong , Ma Liang , Wang Shanjin , Wu Desheng
Published: November 2022

Background

The intervertebral disc is the largest avascular tissue in the human body. The nucleus pulposus (NP) consumes glucose and oxygen to generate energy to maintain cellular metabolism via nutrients that diffuse from the cartilage endplate. The microenvironment in the intervertebral disc becomes nutritionally deficient during degeneration, and nutritional deficiency has been shown to inhibit the viability and proliferation of NP cells.

Methods

To investigate the molecular mechanism by which nutritional deficiency reduces viability and decreases proliferation, we created an in vitro model by using decreasing serum concentration percentages.

Results

In this study, we found that nutritional deficiency reduced NP cell viability and increased cell apoptosis and that the upregulation of ATF4 expression and the downregulation of PKM2 expression were involved in this process. Moreover, we found that PKM2 inhibition can reduce the cell apoptosis induced by ATF4 silence under nutritional deficiency.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that PKM2 inhibition reduces the cell apoptosis induced by ATF4 silence under nutritional deficiency by inhibiting AKT phosphate. Revealing the function and mechanism of NP cell development under nutritional deficiency will provide new insights into the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of intervertebral disc and related diseases.
Magnitude of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in Saudi Arabia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Owolabi Lukman Femi , Alghamdi Mushabab , Adamu Bappa , Taura Magaji Garba , Jibo Abubakar , Almansour Mohammed , Alaklabi Saeed Naseer , Alghamdi Mohammed Ali , Alotaibi Yousef Ayesh , Imam Isa Adamu , Abdelrazak Reda , Rafaat Ahmad , Aliyu Muktar Hassan
Published: November 2022

Background

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), due to its potential for causing morbidity and disability from foot ulcers and amputations, is increasingly becoming a source of concern in Saudi Arabia and worldwide. However, wide variability exists in the prevalence of DPN reported in previous studies in Saudi Arabia, limiting the utility of existing data in national public health policy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the magnitude of DPN in patients living with DM in Saudi Arabia in order to inform policymakers during the implementation of appropriate preventive and treatment strategies for DPN.

Methods

PubMed, Google Scholar, African Journals Online, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Wiley Online Library were searched systematically to acquire relevant articles based on preset criteria. We evaluated heterogeneity and publication bias and employed a random-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of DPN from the included studies. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines in conducting the meta-analysis. Analysis was performed using the STATA Version 12 software.

Results

Twelve studies with a total of 4,556 participants living with DM, of whom 2,081 were identified as having DPN were included in the meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of DPN was 39% (95% CI [30%, 49%]). Subgroup analysis based on diagnostic method showed that prevalence estimates for DPN using screening questionnaires and clinical examination were 48% (95% CI [46%, 50%]) and 40% (95% CI: [38%, 42%]), respectively, while the estimated prevalence using nerve conduction studies was 26% (95% CI [15%, 36%]).

Conclusion

This study showed a high magnitude of DPN in Saudi Arabia (39%), thus highlighting the need for sustained efforts to reduce the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and DPN in the kingdom.
The work-related stress experienced by registered nurses at municipal aged care facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Arén Cilmara , Jaçelli Armand , Gesar Berit , From Ingrid
Published: November 2022

Background

Stress can originate from many different unsatisfying work situations. Registered nurses working in municipal care have experience of work-related stress in different ways.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to describe the work-related stress experienced by registered nurses caring for older people at municipal aged care facilities.

Methods

Qualitative semi-structured interviews according to Polit and Beck were carried out in clinical work at six different municipal aged care facilities in Sweden. Twelve registered nurses participated in the study.

Results

The results outlined in one main central theme: Feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction contribute to work-related stress and three categories: Difficulty coping with work tasks, Insufficient support, Work-related stress affects private lives. Areas identified were lack of time, staff shortages, high number of patients, lack of communication and teamwork in the working group, showing that inadequacy and dissatisfaction can contribute to work-related stress. This can contribute to work-related stress, and it can be a result of problems in the organizational and social work environment.

Conclusion

This study showed the everyday experiences of registered nurses’ stress at work. The reasons that registered nurses experience a heavy workload were found to be similar in several municipal care facilities. Future interventions should consider the areas of stress found in this study to reduce the risk of further increasing the work-related stress experienced by registered nurses working in municipal aged care.
Factors associated with formal and informal resource utilization in nursing home patients with and without dementia: cross-sectional analyses from the COSMOS trial
Authors: Vislapuu Maarja , Berge Line Iden , Angeles Renira C. , Kjerstad Egil , Mannseth Janne , Achterberg Wilco P. , Husebo Bettina S.
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To investigate the association between clinical, demographic, and organizational factors and formal (health professionals) and informal (relatives) resource utilization in nursing home patients with and without dementia.

Methods

Baseline data from the multicomponent cluster randomized control COSMOS trial including 33 Norwegian nursing homes and 723 residents with and without dementia. Nursing home staff (n = 117) participated as proxy raters to approximate formal and informal resource use in daily care.

Measurements

The primary outcome was the Resource Utilization in Dementia - Formal Care scale to assess formal and informal care time in hours/month regarding basic activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental ADL, and supervision. Secondary outcomes were hours/week spent on formal and informal leisure activities. Behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD) were assessed by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Nursing Home version, physical function by the Physical Self-Maintenance Scale, and psychotropic drug use by the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification system. Organizational factors were ward size and staff ratio.

Results

Generalized linear mixed-effect models and two-part modelling revealed an association between increased formal care time and poorer physical function, higher agitation and psychotropic drug use and lower cognitive function (all p < .05). Enhanced formal leisure time was related to better ADL function (p < .05) and smaller wards (p < .05). The family related leisure time was associated with agitation, decline in ADL function, smaller wards, and better staffing ratio (all p < .05). Married patients received more informal direct care (p < .05) and leisure time (p < .05) compared to unmarried/widowed.

Conclusion

For nursing home staff, higher agitation and psychotropic drug use, and lower cognitive function, is associated with more direct care time, whereas leisure time activities are less prioritized in people with lower physical function. Informal caregivers’ engagement is encouraged by smaller nursing homes and better staff ratio. Therefore, we recommend stakeholders and healthcare professionals to consider these clinical and organizational factors to optimize treatment and leisure time activities in nursing home patients with various needs.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT02238652.
Pomegranate juice and punicalagin-mediated chemoprevention of hepatocellular carcinogenesis via regulating miR-21 and NF-κB-p65 in a rat model
Authors: Hussein Aya M. , El-Beih Nadia M. , Swellam Menha , El-Hussieny Enas A.
Published: November 2022

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common neoplasm among primary liver malignancies, accounting for 70%–85% of total liver cancer cases worldwide. It is also the second-leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Recent research has investigated naturally occurring products high in polyphenolic compounds in the regression and prevention of HCC. This study investigated the chemoprevention effects of pomegranate juice (PJ) and punicalagin (PCG) against diethylnitrosamine (DENA)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in male albino rats.

Methods

Animals were randomized into six groups and treated for 11 weeks as follows: group 1 was a negative control group, group 2 was treated orally with 10 mL PJ per kilogram body weight (kg bw), group 3 was treated orally with 18.5 mg PCG/kg bw, and groups 4–6 were injected with an intraperitoneal dose of DENA (50 mg/kg bw) weekly beginning in the third week. Group 4 was a HCC control (DENA-treated group), group 5 was HCC + PJ, and group 6 was HCC + PCG.

Results

PJ antagonized DENA-induced elevations of ALAT, TNF-α, NF-κB-p65, GST, MDA, and NO and restored total protein, IL-10, SOD, and CAT levels. Moreover, PJ resulted in downregulation of miR-21, Bcl-2, and Bcl-XL and an upregulation of caspase-3 and Bax mRNA expressions. These chemoprevention effects of PJ also alleviated the hepatic preneoplastic lesions induced by DENA. Although PCG treatment induced some modulation in DENA-treated rats, it did not show potent chemoprevention activity and induced some side effects.

Conclusion

Both of PJ and PCG downregulated miR-21 expression and triggered apoptosis. However, PJ was more effective than pure PCG in alleviating the hepatic antioxidant defense state and the inflammatory status. So, PJ was superior in prevention of DENA-induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis in rats than pure PCG.

Graphical Abstract
Trends in evolution of the Triatomini tribe (Hemiptera, Triatominae): reproductive incompatibility between four species of geniculatus clade
Authors: dos Reis Yago Visinho , de Oliveira Jader , Madeira Fernanda Fernandez , Ravazi Amanda , de Oliveira Ana Beatriz Bortolozo , de Mello Denis Vinicius , Campos Fabricio Ferreira , de Azeredo-Oliveira Maria Tercília Vilela , da Rosa João Aristeu , Galvão Cleber , Alevi Kaio Cesar Chaboli
Published: November 2022

Background

The geniculatus clade, composed by the rufotuberculatus, lignarius, geniculatus and megistus groups, relates evolutionarily the species of the genus Panstrongylus and Nesotriatoma. Several studies have shown that triatomine hybrids can play an important role in the transmission of Chagas disease. Natural hybrids between species of the geniculatus clade have never been reported to our knowledge. Thus, carrying out experimental crosses between species of the geniculatus clade can help to elucidate the taxonomic issues as well as contribute to the epidemiological knowledge of this group.

Methods

Experimental crosses were carried out between species of the megistus and lignarius groups to evaluate the reproductive compatibility between them. A phylogenetic reconstruction was also performed with data available in GenBank for the species of the geniculatus clade to show the relationships among the crossed species.

Results

Phylogenetic analysis grouped the species of the geniculatus clade into four groups, as previously reported. In the interspecific crosses performed there was no hatching of eggs, demonstrating the presence of prezygotic barriers between the crossed species and confirming their specific status.

Conclusions

In contrast to the other groups of the Triatomini tribe, as well as the Rhodniini, there are prezygotic barriers that prevent the formation of hybrids between species of the megistus and lignarius groups. Thus, the geniculatus clade may represent an important evolutionary model for Triatominae, highlighting the need for further studies with greater sample efforts for this clade (grouping the 17 species of Panstrongylus and the three of Nesotriatoma).

Graphical Abstract
Apolipoprotein E imbalance in the cerebrospinal fluid of Alzheimer’s disease patients
Authors: Lennol Matthew Paul , Sánchez-Domínguez Irene , Cuchillo-Ibañez Inmaculada , Camporesi Elena , Brinkmalm Gunnar , Alcolea Daniel , Fortea Juan , Lleó Alberto , Soria Guadalupe , Aguado Fernando , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Sáez-Valero Javier
Published: November 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the levels of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) apolipoprotein E (apoE) species in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients.

Methods

We analyzed two CSF cohorts of AD and control individuals expressing different APOE genotypes. Moreover, CSF samples from the TgF344-AD rat model were included. Samples were run in native- and SDS-PAGE under reducing or non-reducing conditions (with or without β-mercaptoethanol). Immunoprecipitation combined with mass spectrometry or western blotting analyses served to assess the identity of apoE complexes.

Results

In TgF344-AD rats expressing a unique apoE variant resembling human apoE4, a ~35-kDa apoE monomer was identified, increasing at 16.5 months compared with wild-types. In humans, apoE isoforms form disulfide-linked dimers in CSF, except apoE4, which lacks a cysteine residue. Thus, controls showed a decrease in the apoE dimer/monomer quotient in the APOE ε3/ε4 group compared with ε3/ε3 by native electrophoresis. A major contribution of dimers was found in APOE ε3/ε4 AD cases, and, unexpectedly, dimers were also found in ε4/ε4 AD cases. Under reducing conditions, two apoE monomeric glycoforms at 36 kDa and at 34 kDa were found in all human samples. In AD patients, the amount of the 34-kDa species increased, while the 36-kDa/34-kDa quotient was lower compared with controls. Interestingly, under reducing conditions, a ~100-kDa apoE complex, the identity of which was confirmed by mass spectrometry, also appeared in human AD individuals across all APOE genotypes, suggesting the occurrence of aberrantly resistant apoE aggregates. A second independent cohort of CSF samples validated these results.

Conclusion

These results indicate that despite the increase in total apoE content the apoE protein is altered in AD CSF, suggesting that function may be compromised.
Presumed Bietti crystalline dystrophy with optic nerve head drusen: a case report
Authors: Bazvand Fatemeh , Asadi Khameneh Esmaeil
Published: November 2022

Background

Bietti crystalline dystrophy is primarily a retinal dystrophy caused by a CYP4V2 mutation and typically presents with crystalline retinal deposits in the posterior fundus.

Case presentation

We present the case of an otherwise healthy 39-year-old Iranian woman with no family history of ocular disease who suffered with progressive vision loss that had started 2 years prior to presentation. Ocular examination revealed blurry optic nerve head margin and diffuse retinal crystalline deposit in both eyes. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography images showed retinal crystals, located mostly in outer retinal layers, with some areas of outer retinal tubulation and attenuation of outer retinal layers. Crystalline deposits were better visualized on near-infrared images as hyperreflective spots. Fundus autofluorescence images showed hyperautofluorescence areas on optic nerve head consistent with optic nerve head drusen and large hypoautofluorescence areas in posterior retina consistent with retinal pigment epithelium atrophy. Cystinosis was ruled out by blood testing.

Conclusion

Bietti crystalline dystrophy may be associated with optic nerve head drusen.
A full digital workflow to prefabricate an implant-supported interim restoration: case report and a novel technique
Authors: Fu Yu , Yin Cuilan , Li Shiqi , Li Dan , Mo Anchun
Published: November 2022

This article describes a case with a full digital procedure to prefabricate an implant-supported interim restoration based on the preoperative digital implant planning. A fully guided surgical template is designed and printed, and then an interim restoration is fabricated based on the planned implant position through a dental computer-aided design (CAD) software. Once the implant was placed at the predetermined position through the fully guided surgical guide, the prefabricated interim restoration could be inserted immediately after the surgery, which can guide the healing of the soft tissue and enhance the esthetic outcomes. This novel technique eliminates the conventional impression making to insert an implant-supported interim restoration immediately after the implant placement surgery, which can guide the healing of the soft tissue, minimize the chairside time and optimize the clinical workflow.
Retrospective clinical study of mandible fractures
Authors: Cha Seungjin , Park Gaeun , Lee Baek-Soo , Kwon Yong-Dae , Choi Byung-Joon , Lee Jung-Woo , Jung Junho , Ohe Jooyoung
Published: November 2022

Background

As society becomes more complex, the incidence of mandibular fractures is increasing. This study aimed to analyze the incidence and type and identify etiological factors of mandibular fractures to use them in future treatments.

Material and methods

Data were collected from 224 patients who visited the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery at the Kyung Hee Medical Center dental hospital during a 6-year period (2016 to 2021). A logistic regression model was used for data analysis.

Results

In a total of 224 patients, 362 fractures were appeared. The average age of the patients was 34.1 years, with the highest incidence in the 20s. And the ratio between male and female was 4.09:1. Symphysis fractures were the most prevalent of all patients (52.7%), followed by unilateral condyle (37.1%), angle (36.2%), bilateral condyle (9.4%), body (8%), and coronoid (2.2%). The most common cause of fracture was daily-life activity (57.6%), followed by violence (30.4%), traffic accidents (8.5%), and syncope (3.6%). Patients with symphysis fracture were at low risk (OR < 1) of angle, body, and unilateral condyle fractures. Similarly, patients with unilateral fracture were at low risk (OR < 1) of symphysis, angle, body, and others site fractures. In contrast, patient with bilateral condyle fracture were at high risk (OR > 1) of coronoid fractures. And younger patients were high risk of mandibular angle fractures.

Conclusion

Through this study, it was confirmed that etiological factors of mandibular fractures were like those of previous studies.
Mesenchymal stromal cells in the thymus
Authors: Nitta Takeshi
Published: November 2022

The microenvironment of the thymus is composed of a group of stromal cells that include endoderm-derived thymic epithelial cells (TECs) and mesenchymal stromal cells such as fibroblasts and serves as a site for the development of T cells. TECs are known to play an essential role in T cell differentiation and selection. Mesenchymal stromal cells have been less studied in terms of their immunological significance compared to TECs. Recently, new technologies have made it possible to identify and characterize mesenchymal stromal cells in the thymus, revealing their unique functions in thymic organogenesis and T cell development. This review outlines the current views on mesenchymal stromal cells in the thymus, particularly highlighting the newly discovered function of thymic fibroblasts in T cell repertoire selection.
High-throughput methods to identify male Cannabis sativa using various genotyping methods
Authors: Torres Anthony , Pauli Christopher , Givens Robert , Argyris Jason , Allen Keith , Monfort Amparo , Gaudino Reginald J.
Published: November 2022

Background

Cannabis sativa is a primarily dioecious angiosperm that exhibits sexual developmental plasticity. Developmental genes for staminate male flowers have yet to be elucidated; however, there are regions of male-associated DNA from Cannabis (MADC) that correlate with the formation of pollen producing staminate flowers. MADC2 is an example of a PCR-based genetic marker that has been shown to produce a 390-bp amplicon that correlates with the expression of male phenotypes. We demonstrate applications of a cost-effective high-throughput male genotyping assay and other genotyping applications of male identification in Cannabis sativa.

Methods

In this study, we assessed data from 8200 leaf samples analyzed for real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) detection of MADC2 in a commercial testing application offered through Steep Hill Laboratories. Through validation, collaborative research projects, and follow-up retest analysis, we observed a > 98.5% accuracy of detection of MADC2 by qPCR. We also carried out assay development for high-resolution melting analysis (HRM), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and TwistDx recombinase amplification (RPA) assays using MADC2 for male identification.

Results

We demonstrate a robust high-throughput duplex TaqMan qPCR assay for identification of male-specific genomic signatures using a novel MADC2 qPCR probe. The qPCR cycle quotient (Cq) value representative of MADC2 detection in 3156 males and the detection of tissue control cannabinoid synthesis for 8200 samples and the absence of MADC2 detection in 5047 non-males demonstrate a robust high-throughput real-time genotyping assay for Cannabis. Furthermore, we also demonstrated the viability of using nearby regions to MADC2 with novel primers as alternative assays. Finally, we also show proof of concept of several additional commercially viable sex determination methodologies for Cannabis sativa.

Discussion

In industrial applications, males are desirable for their more rapid growth and higher quality fiber quality, as well as their ability to pollinate female plants and produce grain. In medicinal applications, female cultivars are more desirable for their ability to produce large amounts of secondary metabolites, specifically the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that have various medicinal and recreational properties. In previous studies, traditional PCR and non-high-throughput methods have been reported for the detection of male cannabis, and in our study, we present multiple methodologies that can be carried out in high-throughput commercial cannabis testing.

Conclusion

With these markers developed for high-throughput testing assays, the Cannabis industry will be able to easily screen and select for the desired sex of a given cultivar depending on the application.
Experimental study of bluntness effects on hypersonic boundary-layer transition over a slender cone using surface mounted pressure sensors
Authors: Huang Ranran , Cheng Jiangyi , Chen Jianqiang , Yuan Xianxu , Wu Jie
Published: November 2022

In this work, we studied the bluntness effect on the hypersonic boundary-layer transition over a slender cone at Mach 6 with interchangeable tips in a noisy Ludwieg tube tunnel before the so-called “transition reversal” phenomenon occurs. The evolution of instability waves is characterized using surface flush-mounted pressure sensors deployed along the streamwise direction within unit Reynolds number from 4E+ 6/m ≤ Reunit ≤ 10E+ 6/m, and the bluntness of the cone nose ranges from 0.1 mm to 5 mm. Power spectral density (PSD) of pressure fluctuation indicates that small nose bluntness (ReR ≤ 2000) has little influence on the evolution of instability waves along the hypersonic boundary-layer, whereas with a moderate nose size (2000 ≤ ReR ≤ 5000), the hypersonic boundary layer transition is delayed monotonically as the nose radius increases before the boundary-layer turns into fully laminar without instability waves. The delaying effect can be attributed to the increased entropy-layer swallowing distance with a large tip radius. Instability wave characterization reveals that the second mode instability wave plays a dominant role before the transition reversal happens. The quadratic phase locking of second mode instabilities can be identified by bispectral analysis, and it attenuates as the nose tip radius increases.
Genetic variation in toll-like receptor 4 gene with primary antiphospholipid syndrome susceptibility: a cohort of Egyptian patients
Authors: Mahdy Sara H. , Abd Elkader Nour M. , Kassim Nevine A. , ElHady Mostafa M.
Published: November 2022

Background

As toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays important roles in cellular immunity and TLR4 polymorphisms have been shown to be associated with susceptibility to a range of diseases, the present study aimed to investigate the association between TLR4 gene polymorphisms and the incidence of primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS).

Methods

Two TLR4 single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs4986790 and rs4986791) were assessed in 110 subjects of Egyptian ethnicity, including 65 female patients with PAPS and 45 matched healthy controls, using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results were verified using automated sequencing.

Results

The homozygous wild-type (AA, aspartic acid) rs4986790 variant and (CC, threonine) rs4986791 variant were the predominant genotypes in the control and PAPS groups.

Conclusion

The results of this preliminary study of TLR4 gene variants among patients with PAPS in an Egyptian population found no association between the rs4986790 and rs4986791 variants and susceptibility to PAPS.
Cognitive impairment in different hemodialysis techniques
Authors: Abdelwahab Mahmoud Mohamed Abdelsalam , Sabri Youmna , Elkalla Ibrahim Hamdey Rashed , Nassar Mohammed Kamal , Abdel-Gawad Sara M. , Gomaa Zinab Abo Elfotouh
Published: November 2022

Background

Cognitive impairment is one of the most common, often untreated, comorbidities affecting patients with chronic kidney disease treated with hemodialysis. Increased mortality, poor compliance, depression, and poor quality of life were all linked to cognitive impairment in the hemodialysis population. The intradialytic exercise proved to be beneficial in improving patients’ quality of life, among other positive effects. Cooling dialysate has various positive effects, including improved patients’ mood and decreased hypotensive episodes during hemodialysis. The study aims to assess the effect of intradialytic exercise and cool hemodialysis on cognitive function in patients on hemodialysis.

Results

The study showed no significant effect of both interventions on the patient’s cognitive functions. However, cooling dialysate showed an improvement in the severity of depressive symptoms by Beck’s Depression Inventory II (p = 0.02). On the other hand, Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview showed an increase of patients diagnosed with depression in the intradialytic exercise group.

Conclusions

Both interventions had no significant effect on the mean scores of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, which are lower in our sample than in the general population (23.9–25). Potential implications include the importance of managing psychiatric comorbidities in patients on hemodialysis. Cooling dialysate can be adopted to alleviate depressive symptoms in patients on hemodialysis.
The role of dynamic contrast-enhanced CT in characterization of solitary solid pulmonary nodules
Authors: EL-Metwally Dina , EL-Bakry Magda Ali Hany , EL-Adalany Mohamed Ali , Adel Shaimaa , Mohsen Mohamed
Published: November 2022

Background

Incidental indeterminate solitary solid pulmonary nodule is a progressively common finding on CT worldwide. Once detected, there are a number of imaging modalities that can be done to help in nodule characterization and differentiating benign from malignant nodules. Through these imaging modalities, there are PET CT, SPECT and dynamic CE-CT. Dynamic CE-CT is a functional test that help in assessment of the vascularity of the nodule which reverb the degree of angiogenesis of that nodule so can help in differentiating benign from malignant pulmonary nodules. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of Dynamic CE-CT in characterization of solitary pulmonary nodules. Detect what are the important parameters on dynamic CE-CT to differentiate benign from malignant nodules and detect their cutoff values.

Results

The pre-enhancement value shows cutoff point of 26.50 HU with sensitivity 93.8% and specificity 75% with accuracy rate 90% in differentiating benign from malignant pulmonary nodules. Peak enhancement value (at 2 min) shows cutoff point of 40.00 HU with sensitivity 96.9% and specificity 87.5% with accuracy rate 95% in differentiating benign from malignant pulmonary nodules. Net enhancement value shows cutoff point of 19.00 HU with sensitivity 96.9% and specificity 87.5% with accuracy rate 95% in differentiating benign from malignant pulmonary nodules.

Conclusion

Dynamic CE-CT is a useful tool in differentiating benign from malignant pulmonary nodules. Peak and net enhancement values are important parameters with high sensitivity and specificity in differentiating benign from malignant pulmonary nodules.
A conceptual framework for understanding the intrinsic contestation of cultural heritage tourism in Chinese qiaoxiang
Authors: Jiang Ting
Published: November 2022

Cultural heritage in Chineseqiaoxiangis constructed where Chinese and foreign cultures gather, connecting overseas Chinese with their country of origin. However, conflicts concerning this type of heritage comes out frequently, such as house reconstruction clash, host-guest conflicts and destructive competition in heritage tourism. The economic and cultural duality of heritage is perceived as the source of intrinsic contestation in heritage tourism, and conflicts related to different types of heritage may take on different appearances and causes. Extant tourism studies have generalised cultural heritage in Chineseqiaoxiang, neglecting the unique characteristics of the diaspora and their corresponding influence on heritage protection and utilisation, that makes the reasons for these conflicts remain unclear. By answering the basic question of what heritage is, this research proposes an analytical framework to understand the intrinsic contestation of cultural heritage tourism in Chineseqiaoxiang. The paper points out that the contradiction between ‘ancestral root culture’ and modernity and between flow and stillness is the trigger for intrinsic contestation. The paper also summarises the core issues in conflicts that need further discussion by answering the questions of ‘what is heritage’, ‘whose heritage’ and ‘how to interpret heritage’. The core issues include heritage selection and identification, the commercialisation of ‘home’, heritage interpretation and so on.
Smartphone Psychotherapy Reduces Fear of Cancer Recurrence Among Breast Cancer Survivors: A Fully Decentralized Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial (J-SUPPORT 1703 Study)
Authors: Akechi Tatsuo , Yamaguchi Takuhiro , Uchida Megumi , Imai Fuminobu , Momino Kanae , Katsuki Fujika , Sakurai Naomi , Miyaji Tempei , Mashiko Tomoe , Horikoshi Masaru , Furukawa Toshi A. , Yoshimura Akiyo , Ohno Shinji , Uehiro Natsue , Higaki Kenji , Hasegawa Yoshie , Akahane Kazuhisa , Uchitomi Yosuke , Iwata Hiroji
Published: November 2022

PURPOSE

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a common distressing condition. We investigated the efficacy of smartphone problem-solving therapy and behavioral activation applications in breast cancer survivors.

METHODS

This was a decentralized randomized trial. Participants were disease-free breast cancer survivors age 20-49 years who were randomly assigned to the smartphone-based intervention or waitlist control. Both groups received treatment as usual. The control group could access the smartphone apps during weeks 8-24. The intervention comprised smartphone problem-solving therapy and behavioral activation apps. The primary end point was the Concerns About Recurrence Scale at week 8. Secondary outcomes included the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory-Short Form (FCRI-SF), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Short-form Supportive Care Needs Survey (SCNS-SF34), and the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory at weeks 8 and 24 (trial registration: UMIN-CTR: UMIN000031140).

RESULTS

The intervention group included 223 participants, and the control group included 224 participants. Primary outcome data were obtained for 444 participants, and 213 participants in the intervention arm completed the week 24 assessment. The intervention group had statistically greater improvements than controls at week 8 on the Concerns About Recurrence Scale (difference –1.39; 95% CI, –1.93 to –0.85; P < .001), FCRI-SF (difference –1.65; 95% CI, –2.41 to –0.89; P < .001), HADS depression (difference –0.49; 95% CI, –0.98 to 0; P < .05), and SCNS-SF34 psychological domain (difference –1.49; 95% CI, –2.67 to –0.32; P < .05). These scores at week 24 were not statistically significant compared with week 8 although the HADS depression score at week 24 was significantly reduced ( P = .03).

CONCLUSION

Novel smartphone psychotherapy offers a promising way to reduce FCR given the large number of survivors and a limited number of therapists to competently conduct psychotherapy.
Determination of Anti-drug Antibody Affinity in Clinical Study Samples Provides a Tool for Evaluation of Immune Response Maturation
Authors: Joyce Alison , Shea Christopher , You Zhiping , Gorovits Boris , Lepsy Christopher
Published: November 2022

Characterization of clinical anti-drug antibody (ADA) responses to biotherapeutics can be important to understanding the consequences of immunogenicity. ADA are expected to be polyclonal, with composition and affinities that evolve over time. Measuring ADA binding affinity can be complicated by the polyclonal nature of response, residual drug in sample, and low ADA levels. We developed a novel workflow to determine the apparent ADA affinity (KD) against a monoclonal antibody biotherapeutic, PF-06480605. An affinity capture elution pre-treatment step was used to isolate ADA and remove residual drug interference from samples. Solution-phase equilibrium incubation was performed using drug and sample ADA as variable and fixed binding interactants, respectively. Unbound ADA concentration was measured using a Singulex Erenna ligand-binding assay (LBA) method. Apparent ADA KD values were calculated using a custom R Shiny algorithm. KD values determined for ADA positive samples showed good correlation with other immunogenicity parameters, including titers and neutralizing antibody (NAb) activity with a general increase in affinity over time, indicative of a maturing immune response. Time of onset of high affinity responses (KD < 100 pM) varied between patients, ranging from 16 to 24 weeks. Antibody responses appeared monophasic at earlier time points, trending towards a biphasic response with a variable transition time and general increase in proportion of high affinity ADA over time. Herein, we provide a novel, sensitive bioanalytical method to determine the KD of ADA in clinical samples. The observed decrease in ADA KD is consistent with evidence of a maturing immune response.

Graphical Abstract
LBSUN85 Acipimox Normalizes The Cardiac Phenotype Induced By Electronic Cigarettes
Authors: Espinoza-Derout Jorge , Shao Xuesi M , Hasan Kamrul M , Rivera Juan-Carlos , Lao Candice , Wilson Julian , Jordan Maria , Roos Kenneth P , Sinha-Hikim Amiya P , Friedman Theodore C
Published: November 2022

Electronic nicotine delivery systems or electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are becoming exceptionally popular in the world as an alternative to conventional nicotine cigarettes, both among smokers and people who have never smoked. Nicotine can induce lipolysis in adipose tissue, leading to increased serum free fatty acids (FFAs). Increased levels of FFAs are one of the key elements in generating a pro-inflammatory response and lead to ectopic lipid accumulation, lipotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and DNA damage. Our laboratory has shown that e-cigarettes induce cardiac dysfunction associated with oxidative stress and inflammatory phenotype. We investigated the effects of acipimox, an antihyperlipidemic drug that blocks lipolysis, on e-cigarettes-induced cardiac dysfunction and its associated inflammatory signals and oxidative stress. C57BL/6J wild type mice on high fat diet were exposed to saline, e-cigarette with nicotine (2.4%), e-cigarette (2.4%) plus acipimox for 12 weeks. Fractional shortening and ejection fraction was decreased in mice exposed to e-cigarette (2.4%) compared with saline and acipimox. Therefore, acipimox normalized the e-cigarette-induced cardiac dysfunction. Transcriptomic evaluation with Gene Set Enrichment Analysis revealed that e-cigarette treated mice had genes enriched in the G2/M DNA damage checkpoint pathways. These transcriptomic changes were normalized by acipimox. Mice exposed to e-cigarettes had increased circulating levels of M-CSF, IL-6, and FFAs, which were decreased by acipimox. Mice exposed to e-cigarette (2.4%) had increased cardiac Heme oxygenase 1, a marker of oxidative stress. Additionally, treatment with e-cigarette (2.4%) increased the apurinic/apyrimidinic sites. This marker of oxidative DNA damage was normalized by acipimox. Understanding the consequences of e-cigarette use on the cardiovascular system is directly relevant to developing policies related to e-cigarette use.

Presentation: Sunday, June 12, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
LBSUN86 Effects Of Hyperandrogenemia And Western-style Diet On Rhesus Macaque Tissue-resident Memory T-cells And Their Potential Role In Controlling Local Inflammation And Insulin Sensitivity
Authors: Varlamov Oleg , Yusova Sofia , Bishop Cecily V , Robino Jacob J , Takahashi Diana , Roberts Charles , Slayden Ov D , Burwitz Benjamin J , Hennebold Jon D
Published: November 2022

We have previously demonstrated that the combination of chronic hyperandrogenemia (elevated circulating testosterone; T) and an obesogenic Western-style diet (WSD) exerts synergistic effects on the metabolic and reproductive axis, leading to the development of insulin resistance, visceral obesity, and ovarian dysfunction in female rhesus macaques. The underlying cellular connection between T+WSD treatment and abnormal metabolic and reproductive function is not well understood. Tissue resident-memory T-cells (Trm) have emerged as potent regulators of local inflammation. Thus, we hypothesized that T+WSD treatment drives proinflammatory phenotypic changes in Trm cells. To address this hypothesis, we studied a cohort of adult female rhesus macaque exposed to a low-fat diet and no exogenous T (controls) versus those treated with T+WSD for one year. T+WSD animals became insulin resistant and had higher visceral adiposity than control animals. During the mid-luteal phase, all animals were necropsied and immune cells residing in visceral omental white adipose tissue (OM-WAT), the corpus luteum (CL), the contralateral ovary not containing the CL (OV), endometrium (ENDO), lymph nodes (LN), bone marrow (BM), and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were characterized by flow cytometry. Non-activated CD4+ and CD8+ naïve/central memory cells expressing CD28 were detected in all tissue examined. However, the tissue retention receptor CD69 was expressed only on CD4+ and CD8+ cells residing in OM-WAT, CL, OV, and ENDO. These Trm subsets expressed high levels of the C-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 5 (CCR5), whose role in inflammation has been previously reported. Combined T+WSD treatment resulted in a significant increase in CD8+ Trm cell populations in OM-WAT. Notably, the frequencies of Trm in OM-WAT were positively correlated with HOMA-IR, the indicator of insulin resistance. Collectively, our data indicate that combined hyperandrogenemia and WSD can lead to selective recruitment or local differentiation of Trm cells in visceral fat. Trm activation in fat may drive the development of a proinflammatory environment that negatively affects adipose metabolic function, leading to altered systemic metabolic parameters (i. e., hyperinsulinemia) that influence ovarian and uterine processes. Future studies are warranted to define how Trm cell-adipocyte interactions affect adipose metabolic processes.

Presentation: Sunday, June 12, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
ODP002 ASSOCIATION BETWEEN OBESITY AND DIABETES POTENTIATES RENAL FUNCTION IMPAIRMENT IN BARIATRIC PATIENTS
Authors: Naliato Erika
Published: November 2022

Obesity may impair renal function directly or through comorbidities and complications, such as Diabetes Mellitus (DM), hypertension, and dyslipidemia.

Aim

To evaluate renal function in obese patients before treatment with bariatric surgery.

Material & Methods

Serum creatinine was evaluated pre-operatively in 68 obese patients referred to treatment with sleeve gastroplasty. Glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was estimated through the CKD-EPI Creatinine 2009 Equation. Data on prevalence and occasionally treatment of DM and hypertension were obtained and an additional biochemical work-up (hbA1c, lipid profile, vitamin D) was performed.

Results

Fifty-one subjects had class III obesity (75%) and 17 were classified as class II with metabolic or locomotor complications (25%). Most patients were women (70.6%), had hypertension (66.2%) and low vitamin D (85.9%) and HDL (52.9%) levels. Mean age was 37.8± 8.6 years and mean BMI 43.43± 5.72 kg/m2. The prevalence of DM was 47.6%. While 47.1% of the patients were using renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors, only a few were using reno-protective antidiabetic drugs (4.4% on SGLT2 inhibitors and 1.5% on GLP1 agonists). Mean serum creatinine was 0.8± 0.2 mg/dL and eGFR, 100.9± 18. 0 mL/min/1.73m2 (26.5% of patients had eGFR below 90 and 1.5%, values above 130 mL/min/1.73m2). Mean HbA1c was 5.9±0.8% (DM: 6.4±0.9%, non-diabetics: 5.4±0.2%, p < 0. 0001) and HbA1c was above 6.5% in 16.9% of the patients. Mean LDL, HDL, and triglycerides were, respectively, 121.2± 29.9, 47.1± 10.2, and 148.4± 64.6 mg/mL and mean 25OH vitamin D was 22.6± 8. 0 ng/mL. Creatinine levels of patients with class II and III obesity were similar (0.8± 0.1 vs. 0.8± 0.2 mg/dL, respectively, p = 0.3273) and there was no significant difference when eGFR of these two groups was compared (100.9± 15.5 vs. 100.9± 18.8 mL/min/1.73m2, respectively, p = 1. 0000). Patients with DM had higher creatinine levels (0.9± 0.2 vs. 0.8± 0.1 mg/dL, p = 0. 0154) and lower eGFR (96.3 ± 18.3 vs. 105. 0 ± 16.9mL/min/1.73m2, p = 0. 0439) than non-diabetics. Linear regression models indicated statistically significant associations between creatinine and eGFR and the presence of DM (p = 0. 0154 and 0. 0439, respectively). No association involving creatinine or eGFR and presence of hypertension, or levels of BMI, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, vitamin D or HbA1c was detected.

Conclusion

The study points to the importance of pre-operative renal function screening in bariatric patients, since more than a quarter of the subjects had a decrease in glomerular filtration before surgery at a relatively young age. Although no association between long-term glucose control, represented by HbA1c, and renal function was detected, obese patients with DM seem to be at higher risk for precocious renal function impairment.

Presentation: No date and time listed