bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A retrospective study of 18 children with subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma: multidrug combination chemotherapy or immunomodulatory therapy?
Authors: Duan Yanlong , Gao Huixia , Zhou Chunju , Jin Ling , Yang Jing , Huang Shuang , Zhang Meng , Zhang Yonghong , Wang Tianyou
Published: December 2022

Background

Subcutaneous panniculitis T-cell lymphoma (SPTCL) is a rare, cytotoxic T-cell lymphoma with which some patients have accompanying hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS). There is currently no standard treatment regimen. In the past, the most commonly used treatment was multidrug chemotherapy. In contrast, numerous case reports or small series suggest that immunosuppressive drugs could also be effective for some patients. Since this NHL subtype is extremely rare in children and adolescents, to improve the understanding of this disease and standardize its rational treatment, we retrospectively summarized the treatment regimens of 18 pathologically diagnosed children with SPTCL to compare the clinical efficacy of multidrug chemotherapy and immunomodulatory therapy.

Results

The median age of onset was 11.1 years. Painless subcutaneous nodules or skin patchy lesions were found in all patients, most commonly involving the lower extremities and/or trunk. Before January 1, 2019, the treatment was mainly chemotherapy, and 10 patients were initially treated with chemotherapy, among whom was one patient who progressed during initial treatment, was voluntarily discharged and was subsequently lost to follow-up, one patient who died of disease progression, and the remaining 8 patients who all achieved sustained remission, with a complete remission (CR) rate of 80% (8/10). Corticosteroids combined with cyclosporine A or ruxolitinib were the most common initial immunosuppressive agents at our center after January 1, 2019 and had a CR rate of 71.4% (5/7). In addition, 1 patient achieved partial remission (PR) during follow-up, and one had autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) after 4 months of drug withdrawal. There were 7 patients (38.9%, one case in chemotherapy group and six cases in immunotherapy group) with HPS and 4/5 screened patients (80%) with positive HAVCR2 gene mutations. The median follow-up was 17 months.

Conclusion

The prognosis of SPTCL is relatively good. Previous multi-drug and long-term chemotherapy treatment has clear efficacy, and recent immunomodulatory therapy as pre-chemotherapy therapy can also benefit patients.
Efficacy and tolerability of a 12-week combination chemotherapy followed by lomustine consolidation treatment in canine B- and T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Limmer Stefanie , Nerschbach Verena , Eberle Nina , Teske Erik , Simon Betz Daniela
Published: December 2022

Background

High-grade lymphoma in dogs is a chemotherapy-responsive neoplasia with remission rates exceeding 80% under combination chemotherapy protocols. Usually these protocols are intensive and 24 + weeks. The objective of the present study was to investigate if a shorter protocol combined with an oral lomustine maintenance treatment (3 × in 8 weeks) would present an acceptable result, both for B- and T-cell lymphomas, and for the different types of lymphomas normally encountered in private veterinary practice.

Results

144 dogs entered the study. Lymphoma types included multicentric (n = 123), alimentary (n = 13), miscellaneous (n = 7), and mediastinal lymphoma (n = 1). Overall response rate was 83.3% (B-cell: 86.6%, T-cell: 79.4%). Complete remission (CR) was achieved in 72.2% (B-cell: 77.3%, T-cell: 67.6%) and partial remission (PR) in 11.1% (B-cell: 9.3%, T-cell: 11.8%) of the dogs. Median duration of first CR amounted to 242 days (B-cell: 263 d, T-cell: 161 d). Median survival in dogs with CR was 374 days (B-cell: 436 d, T-cell: 252 d), and median overall survival time was 291 days (B-cell: 357d, T-cell: 210d). Immunophenotype demonstrated an independent significant influence on duration of remission and survival in the whole group. Findings of splenic and hepatic cytology were not significant associated with patient outcome. Treatment was well tolerated; the majority of adverse events were classified as grade 1 or 2.

Conclusions

Short-term chemotherapy followed by lomustine consolidation leads to compara-ble remission and survival times compared to conventional protocols with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone with acceptable toxicosis in dogs with both B-cell and T-cell lymphoma.
Surrogate endpoints in trials: a call for better reporting
Authors: Ciani Oriana , Manyara Anthony M. , Chan An-Wen , Taylor Rod S. ,   on behalf of the SPIRIT-SURROGATE/CONSORT-SURROGATE project group
Published: December 2022

Using a surrogate endpoint as a substitute for a patient-relevant final outcome enables randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to be conducted more efficiently. However, the use of surrogates remains controversial and there is currently no guideline for the reporting of RCTs using surrogate endpoints; therefore, we seek to develop SPIRIT (Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials) and CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) extensions to improve the reporting of these trials. We would like to invite interested individuals (trial methodologists, journal editors, healthcare industry, regulators and payers, and patient/public representative groups), particularly those with experience in the use of surrogate endpoints in trials.
Evaluation of a web-based randomized controlled trial educational intervention based on media literacy on preventing substance abuse among college students, applying the integrated social marketing approach: a study protocol
Authors: Jormand Hanieh , Bashirian Saeed , Barati Majid , Rezapur-Shahkolai Forouzan , Babamiri Mohammad
Published: December 2022

Background

Substance abuse is the actual psychosocial harm, especially in young people confronted with content marketing in nowadays media environment, a risk factor for experiencing substance abuse. Based on the literature review, education designed based on the cognitive-behavioral model and planning models, such as using a social marketing framework, is the most effective method to prevent addictive substance abuse. Also, media literacy related to substance abuse and the prototype willingness model is considered a new integrated approach to present the intervention measures’ desired results.

Methods

The present study evaluates an intervention program based on media literacy on substance abuse prevention among students using an integrated social marketing approach. This study aims to complete the SMART model’s sixth and seventh stages, implementing intervention and evaluation. Participants will be students of Hamadan University, Iran. Randomization will occur at the university and school levels, and gathered data will appear at two-time (i.e., pre-test and three months follow-up). Intervention group students will obtain both substance abuse prevention education and substance abuse media literacy (SAML) education between pre-test and 3 months post-test. Students in the delayed intervention will be given this education after study accomplishment; this group will receive their regular courses except for substance abuse prevention and media literacy titles during education intervention. The outcome variables are intentions and substance abuse behavior based on prototype willingness and substance abuse media literacy.

Discussion

Evaluation of Substance abuse prevention and substance abuse media literacy education must be careful to ensure that they effectively enable people, especially in youth in the new media ecology and unique “Infomedia” ecosystems, in the current digital society. The SAML education plan’s evaluation has the first web-based education program in universities. No prior research has psychometrically considered SAML in students in the SMART model’s sixth and seventh stages.

Trial registration

IRCT20200914048719N1. Registered on June 30, 2021.
Approaches to prioritising research for clinical trial networks: a scoping review
Authors: Morton Rachael L. , Tuffaha Haitham , Blaya-Novakova Vendula , Spencer Jenean , Hawley Carmel M. , Peyton Phil , Higgins Alisa , Marsh Julie , Taylor William J. , Huckson Sue , Sillett Amy , Schneemann Kieran , Balagurunanthan Anitha , Cumpston Miranda , Scuffham Paul A. , Glasziou Paul , Simes Robert J.
Published: December 2022

Background

Prioritisation of clinical trials ensures that the research conducted meets the needs of stakeholders, makes the best use of resources and avoids duplication. The aim of this review was to identify and critically appraise approaches to research prioritisation applicable to clinical trials, to inform best practice guidelines for clinical trial networks and funders.

Methods

A scoping review of English-language published literature and research organisation websites (January 2000 to January 2020) was undertaken to identify primary studies, approaches and criteria for research prioritisation. Data were extracted and tabulated, and a narrative synthesis was employed.

Results

Seventy-eight primary studies and 18 websites were included. The majority of research prioritisation occurred in oncology and neurology disciplines. The main reasons for prioritisation were to address a knowledge gap (51 of 78 studies [65%]) and to define patient-important topics (28 studies, [35%]). In addition, research organisations prioritised in order to support their institution’s mission, invest strategically, and identify best return on investment. Fifty-seven of 78 (73%) studies used interpretative prioritisation approaches (including Delphi surveys, James Lind Alliance and consensus workshops); six studies used quantitative approaches (8%) such as prospective payback or value of information (VOI) analyses; and 14 studies used blended approaches (18%) such as nominal group technique and Child Health Nutritional Research Initiative. Main criteria for prioritisation included relevance, appropriateness, significance, feasibility and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion

Current research prioritisation approaches for groups conducting and funding clinical trials are largely interpretative. There is an opportunity to improve the transparency of prioritisation through the inclusion of quantitative approaches.
Efficacy of the Digital Therapeutic sinCephalea in the prophylaxis of migraine in patients with episodic migraine: study protocol for a digital, randomized, open-label, standard treatment controlled trial
Authors: Schröder Torsten , Brudermann Hanna C. B. , Kühn Gianna , Sina Christian , Thaçi Diamant , Nitschke Matthias , König Inke R.
Published: December 2022

Background

The German government implemented the Digital Healthcare Act in order to bring Digital Therapeutics into standard medical care. This is one of the first regulatory pathways to reimbursement for Digital Therapeutics (DTx). The Digital Therapeutic sinCephalea is intended to act as a prophylactic treatment of migraine by reducing the migraine days. For this, sinCephalea determines personalized nutritional recommendations using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data and enables the patients to follow a personalized low-glycemic nutrition. Migraine is a headache disorder with the highest socioeconomic burden. Emerging evidence shows that CGM-based personalized nutritional recommendations are of prophylactic use in episodic migraine. However, prospective data are yet missing to demonstrate clinical effectiveness. This study is designed to fill this gap.

Methods

Patients between 18 and 65 years of age with proven migraine and a minimal disease severity of 3 migraine days per month are included. After a 4-week baseline phase as a pre-study, patients are randomized to the DTx intervention or a waiting-list control. The objective of the study is to show differences between the intervention and control groups regarding the change of migraine symptoms and of effects of migraine on daily life.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the first systematic clinical trial with a fully digital program to enable patients with migraine to follow a personalized low-glycemic nutrition in order to reduce their number of migraine days and the migraine-induced impact on daily life. Designing a clinical study using a digital intervention includes some obstacles, which are addressed in this study approach.

Trial registration

German Registry of Clinical Studies (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien) DRKS-ID DRKS00024657. Registered on March 8, 2021.
Effects of alpha-lipoic acid on sperm quality in patients with varicocele-related male infertility: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Zhang Qi-Feng , Wang Sheng , Zhang Han , Liu Qi-Li , Wei Yu , Deng Wei , Wang Chuang , Yang Bo
Published: December 2022

Background

Varicocele is a high incidence and is considered to be the most common and correctable cause of male infertility. Oxidative stress (OS) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of varicocele-related male infertility. In addition to varicocelectomy, antioxidant supplementation seems to be an effective scheme for the treatment of varicocele-related male infertility, but it is still controversial. The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation on sperm quality in patients with varicocele-related male infertility.

Methods

In this randomized controlled clinical trial, we will randomize 80 patients with varicocele-related male infertility from Guilin People’s Hospital. The non-surgical observation group (n = 20) will receive ALA, the non-surgical control group (n = 20) will receive vitamin E, the surgical observation group (n = 20) will receive ALA after the operation, and the surgical control group (n = 20) will receive vitamin E after the operation. The course of treatment will be 3 months. The results will compare the changes in semen parameters, sex hormones, testicular volume, sperm DNA fragment index (DFI), seminal plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) between the groups at baseline and after 3 months of antioxidant supplementation.

Discussion

Whether it is necessary to use antioxidants in varicocele-related male infertility, how potent antioxidants should be used, postoperative application or non-surgical independent application still needs to be explored. This study attempts to compare the effects of two antioxidants (ALA and vitamin E) on sperm quality in patients with varicocele-related male infertility (surgical or non-surgical) and attempted to answer the above questions.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) ChiCTR2100054958. Registered on 29 December 2021
Effect of remimazolam tosilate versus etomidate on hemodynamics in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hu Bailong , Zhou Haiyan , Zou Xiaohua , Tan Li , Song Tao , Zellmer Lucas , Li Xingyu
Published: December 2022

Background

Patients with a history of cardiac disease are prone to develop cardiovascular adverse events such as hypotension, hypertension, and tachycardia during anesthesia induction. Therefore, hemodynamic stability is one of the most important concerns for induction of anesthesia in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Remimazolam tosilate is a new, ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine agent, with the advantages of rapid onset, rapid offset, and minimal cardiorespiratory depression. We aim to compare the effect of remimazolam tosilate and etomidate on hemodynamics during anesthesia induction in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery.

Methods/design

The trial is a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, controlled, single-center trial to compare the effect of remimazolam tosilate and etomidate on hemodynamics in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery. One hundred seventeen patients undergoing selective valve replacement surgery between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023, will be enrolled and randomly allocated into one of three groups: low-dose remimazolam group (Group LR), high-dose remimazolam group (Group HR), or etomidate group (Group E). The primary outcome is hemodynamic fluctuations during anesthesia induction (the difference between mean arterial pressure [MAP] to baseline, ▴MAP; and the difference between maximum or minimum heart rate [HR] and baseline, ▴HR). Secondary outcomes include the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events (hypotension, severe bradycardia, hypertension, tachycardia, and arrhythmia), the cumulative doses of vasoactive drugs used per patient, incidence and degree of injection pain and myoclonus, blood glucose values, and vital signs at different time points.

Discussion

This research will determine the effectiveness and safety of remimazolam tosilate induction on hemodynamics in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery.

Trial registration

www.chictr.org.cn identifier ChiCTR2100052535. Registered on 17th Dec 2021, http://www.chictr.org.cn/).
Voltammetric approach for pharmaceutical samples analysis; simultaneous quantitative determination of resorcinol and hydroquinone
Authors: Nabatian Ebrahim , Mousavi Mahdi , Pournamdari Mostafa , Yoosefian Mehdi , Ahmadzadeh Saeid
Published: December 2022

A simple and precise analytical approach developed for single and simultaneous determination of resorcinol (RC) and hydroquinone (HQ) in pharmaceutical samples using carbon paste electrode (CPE) modified with 1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate as ionic liquid and ZnFe2O4 nanoparticle. A significant enhancement in the peak current and sensitivity of the proposed sensor observed by using modifiers in the composition of working electrode compared to bare CPE which is in accordance with the results obtained from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy investigations. Electrochemical investigations revealed a well-defined irreversible oxidation peak for RC over a wide concentration range from 3.0 µM to 500 µM in 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution (pH 6.0) with the linear regression equations of Ip (µA) = 0.0276 CRC (µM) + 0.5508 (R2 = 0.997). The limit of detection and quantification for RC analysis were found to be 1.46 µM and 4.88 µM, respectively. However, the obtained SW voltammograms for simultaneous determination of RC and HQ exhibited a desirable peak separation of about 360 mV potential difference and a satisfactory linear response over the range of 50–700 µM and 5-350 µM with the favorable correlation coefficient of 0.991 and 0.995, respectively. The diffusion coefficient (D) of RC and the electron transfer coefficient (α) at the surface of ZnFe2O4/NPs/IL/CPE estimated to be 2.83 × 10− 4 cm s− 1 and 0.76. The proposed sensor as a promising and low-cost method successfully applied for determination of RC in commercial pharmaceutical formulations such as the resorcinol cream of 2% O/W emulsion available on the market with the recovery of 98.47 ± 0.04.
Preparation of hydroxyethyl cellulose/ mangiferin edible films and their antimicrobial properties
Authors: Tohamy Hebat-Allah S. , El-Sakhawy Mohamed , El-Masry Hossam M. , Saleh Ibrahim A. , AbdelMohsen Mona M.
Published: December 2022

In this study, we have used hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) to prepare antimicrobial films for multipurpose applications. Using HEC gives mangiferin powder (M) mechanical properties, while mangiferin powder gives HEC antimicrobial activities. Various concentrations of M (2.5, 5 and 10% wt/vol) were added to HEC to enhance the antimicrobial ability of HEC/M films. The results showed that 10% (wt/vol) was the optimum concentration to accomplish the antimicrobial activity. Various analyses were performed to study the prepared films’ physical, chemical, mechanical, and antimicrobial properties.
Characterization of two 1,3-β-glucan-modifying enzymes from Penicillium sumatraense reveals new insights into 1,3-β-glucan metabolism of fungal saprotrophs
Authors: Scafati Valentina , Troilo Francesca , Ponziani Sara , Giovannoni Moira , Scortica Anna , Pontiggia Daniela , Angelucci Francesco , Di Matteo Adele , Mattei Benedetta , Benedetti Manuel
Published: December 2022

Background

1,3-β-glucan is a polysaccharide widely distributed in the cell wall of several phylogenetically distant organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, plants and microalgae. The presence of highly active 1,3-β-glucanases in fungi evokes the biological question on how these organisms can efficiently metabolize exogenous sources of 1,3-β-glucan without incurring in autolysis.

Results

To elucidate the molecular mechanisms at the basis of 1,3-β-glucan metabolism in fungal saprotrophs, the putative exo-1,3-β-glucanase G9376 and a truncated form of the putative glucan endo-1,3-β-glucosidase (ΔG7048) from Penicillium sumatraense AQ67100 were heterologously expressed in Pichia pastoris and characterized both in terms of activity and structure. G9376 efficiently converted laminarin and 1,3-β-glucan oligomers into glucose by acting as an exo-glycosidase, whereas G7048 displayed a 1,3-β-transglucanase/branching activity toward 1,3-β-glucan oligomers with a degree of polymerization higher than 5, making these oligomers more recalcitrant to the hydrolysis acted by exo-1,3-β-glucanase G9376. The X-ray crystallographic structure of the catalytic domain of G7048, solved at 1.9 Å of resolution, consists of a (β/α)8 TIM-barrel fold characteristic of all the GH17 family members. The catalytic site is in a V-shaped cleft containing the two conserved catalytic glutamic residues. Molecular features compatible with the activity of G7048 as 1,3-β-transglucanase are discussed.

Conclusions

The antagonizing activity between ΔG7048 and G9376 indicates how opportunistic fungi belonging to Penicillium genus can feed on substrates similar for composition and structure to their own cell wall without incurring in a self-deleterious autohydrolysis.
Effects of different drugs and hormone treatment on Toxoplasma gondii glutathione S-transferase 2
Authors: Li Shuang , Ying Zhu , Xue Yangfei , Sun Zhepeng , Liu Jing , Liu Qun
Published: December 2022

Background

Glutathione S-transferase (GST) in eukaryotic organisms has multiple functions such as detoxifying endogenous/exogenous harmful substances to protect cells from oxidative damage, participating in sterol synthesis and metabolism, and regulating signaling pathways. Our previous work identified an important GST protein in Toxoplasma that contributes to vesicle trafficking called TgGST2, the deletion of which significantly reduces the virulence of the parasite. Meanwhile, we considered that TgGST2 may also play a role in other pathways of parasite life activities.

Methods

The tertiary structures of TgGST2 as well as estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) were predicted by trRosetta and Autodock Vina software, the binding sites were analyzed by PyMol's GetBox Plugin, and the binding capacity was evaluated using Discovery Studio plots software. We examined the influence of E2 and P4 on TgGST2 via glutathione S-transferase enzyme activity and indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and through the localization observation of TgGST2 to evaluate its response ability in different drugs.

Results

TgGST2 could bind to exogenous E2 and P4, and that enzymatic activity was inhibited by the hormones in a concentration-dependent manner. Upon P4 treatment, the localization of TgGST2 changed from Golgi and vesicles to hollow circles, leading to abnormal localization of the molecular transporter Sortilin (VPS10) and microneme proteins (M2AP and MIC2), which ultimately affect the parasite life activities, but E2 had no significant effect. Moreover, diverse types of drugs had divergent effects on TgGST2, among which treatment with antifungal agents (voriconazole and clarithromycin), anticarcinogens (KU-60019, WYE-132 and SH5-07) and coccidiostats (dinitolmide and diclazuril) made the localization of TgGST2 appear in different forms, including dots, circles and rod shaped.

Conclusions

Our study shows that TgGST2 plays a role in sterol treatment and can be affected by P4, which leads to deficient parasite motility. TgGST2 exerts divergent effects in response to the different properties of the drugs themselves. Its responsiveness to diverse drugs implies a viable target for the development of drugs directed against Toxoplasma and related pathogenic parasites.

Graphical Abstract
Capsaicin decreases fecundity in the Asian malaria vector Anopheles stephensi by inhibiting the target of rapamycin signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Jing , Yu Shasha , Wang Luhan , Liu Tingting , Yang Xuesen , Hu Xiaobing , Wang Ying
Published: December 2022

Background

Mosquito-borne diseases threaten human health, but mosquito control faces various challenges, such as resistance to chemical insecticides. Thus, there is an urgent need for more effective and environment-friendly control agents. Capsaicin can downregulate the mTOR signaling pathway of tumor cells. The TOR signaling pathway can mediate the expression of vitellogenin (Vg) to regulate the fecundity of insects. Whether capsaicin has the potential to inhibit fecundity of mosquitoes by regulating TOR pathway and Vg expression is currently unclear.

Methods

Anopheles stephensi were fed with blood of mice administered capsaicin by gavage or sugar containing capsaicin followed by a blood feeding with normal mice. Then, the engorged female mosquitoes were tubed individually and underwent oviposition. The eggs and individuals in the subsequent development stages, including larvae, pupae, and emerging adults, were counted and compared between the capsaicin treatment and control groups. Additionally, total RNA and protein were extracted from the engorged mosquitoes at 24 h post blood feeding. Real-time PCR and western blot were performed to detect the transcriptional level and protein expression of the key fecundity-related molecules of mosquitoes. Finally, TOR signaling pathway was inhibited via rapamycin treatment, and changes in fecundity and the key molecule transcription and protein expression levels were examined to verify the role of TOR signaling pathway in the effect of capsaicin on mosquito fecundity.

Results

The laid and total eggs (laid eggs plus retained eggs) of An. stephensi were significantly reduced by feeding on the blood of capsaicin-treated mice (P < 0.01) or capsaicin-containing sugar (P < 0.01) compared with those in the control group. Moreover, the transcription and protein expression or phosphorylation levels of fecundity-related molecules, such as Akt, TOR, S6K, and Vg, were significantly decreased by capsaicin treatment. However, the effects disappeared between control group and CAP group after the TOR signaling pathway was inhibited by rapamycin.

Conclusions

Capsaicin can decrease the fecundity of An. stephensi by inhibiting the TOR signaling pathway. These data can help us to not only understand the effect of capsaicin on the reproductive ability of An. stephensi and its underlying mechanism, but also develop new efficient, safe, and pollution-free mosquito vector control agents.

Graphical Abstract
Delayed percutaneous coronary intervention for an extensive iatrogenic left main coronary artery dissection: a case report
Authors: Varlamos Charalampos , Varytimiadi Efthymia , Benetou Despoina-Rafailia , Alexopoulos Dimitrios
Published: December 2022

Background

Iatrogenic left main coronary artery dissection is a rare but serious complication that can occur both during diagnostic coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention. Early diagnosis and choice of optimal management are of crucial importance for patient’s outcome while representing a challenge for clinicians.

Case presentation

We present a case of iatrogenic left main coronary artery dissection occurring during diagnostic coronary angiography in a 53-year-old Greek woman with a history of coronary artery bypass grafting. Although dissection was greatly extending to mid left anterior descending artery, delayed percutaneous coronary intervention was successfully performed by carefully wiring the true lumen.

Conclusions

Delayed percutaneous coronary intervention, performed 25 days following the index event, proved to be a feasible and effective strategy for treating a widely extended left main coronary artery iatrogenic dissection.
Steganographic secret sharing via AI-generated photorealistic images
Authors: Gao Kai , Chang Ching-Chun , Horng Ji-Hwei , Echizen Isao
Published: December 2022

Steganographic secret sharing is an access control technique that transforms a secret message into multiple shares in a steganographic sense. Each share is in a human-readable format in order to dispel suspicion from a malicious party during transmission and storage. Such a human-readable format can also serve to facilitate data management. The secret can be reconstructed only when a sufficient number of authorized shareholders collaborate. In this study, we use neural networks to encode secret shares into photorealistic image shares. This approach is conceptually related to coverless image steganography in which the data are transformed directly into an image rather than concealed into a cover image. We further implement an authentication mechanism to verify the integrity of the image shares presented in the decoding phase. All coverless image steganography schemes can be used to achieve steganographic secret sharing, but our detection mechanism can further improve the robustness of these schemes. Experimental results confirm the robustness of the proposed scheme against various steganalysis and tampering attacks.
The teaching and learning of communication skills for social work students: a realist synthesis protocol
Authors: Reith-Hall Emma
Published: December 2022

Background

Good interpersonal communication is the cornerstone of social work practice, enhancing the outcomes of people in receipt of its services. Social workers’ communication skills are often identified as an area of concern. Communication skills can be developed and refined through training or education. The teaching and learning of communication skills is firmly embedded in many social work qualifying courses; however, considerable heterogeneity exists regarding such complex interventions and the theoretical underpinnings of which have not been made explicit. Realist synthesis can help explain how, why, for whom and in what circumstances an intervention might work, which is an important first step for helping educators to tailor courses to meet the needs of different learner groups and, where applicable, the employing agencies and government departments who fund them.

Methods

Realist synthesis is an interpretive, theory-driven and explanatory approach that aims to explain the interplay between the context, mechanisms and outcomes of interventions. This realist synthesis seeks to understand and explain to what extent, how, why, for whom and in what circumstances complex educational interventions aimed at teaching communication skills to social work students produces its effects. A five-step process will be followed iteratively. In step 1, the initial programme theory will be developed. Step 2 will involve searching for evidence. In step 3, selection and appraisal will take place. Step 4 requires data to be extracted and organised, and in step 5, data will be analysed and synthesised.

Discussion

The teaching and learning of communication skills in social work education is under theorised. The findings from this realist synthesis aim to help policymakers and educators make informed decisions about the design and delivery of complex educational interventions aimed at improving the communication skills of social work students. The realist synthesis will be conducted and reported in accordance with the RAMESES guidelines and standards.

Systematic review registration

The review is registered with the Open Science Framework. https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/BYHC7
Management of symptomatic cholelithiasis: a systematic review
Authors: Shenoy Rivfka , Kirkland Patrick , Hadaya Joseph E. , Tranfield M. Wynn , DeVirgilio Michael , Russell Marcia M. , Maggard-Gibbons Melinda
Published: December 2022

Background

Symptomatic cholelithiasis is a common surgical disease and accounts for half of the over one million cholecystectomies performed in the USA annually. Despite its prevalence, only one prior systematic review has examined the evidence around treatment strategies and it contained a narrow scope. The goal of this systematic review was to analyze the clinical effectiveness of treatment options for symptomatic cholelithiasis, including surgery, non-surgical therapies, and ED pain management strategies.

Methods

Literature search was performed from January 2000 through June 2020, and a narrative analysis was performed as studies were heterogeneous.

Results

We identified 12 publications reporting on 10 trials (9 randomized controlled trials and 1 observational study) comparing treatment methods. The studies assessed surgery, observation, lithotripsy, ursodeoxycholic acid, electro-acupuncture, and pain-management strategies in the emergency department. Only one compared surgery to observation.

Conclusion

This work presents the existing data and underscores the current gap in knowledge regarding treatment for patients with symptomatic cholelithiasis. We use these results to suggest how future trials may guide comparisons between the timing of surgery and watchful waiting to create a set of standardized guidelines. Providing appropriate and timely treatment for symptomatic cholelithiasis is important to streamline care for a costly and prevalent disease.

Trial registration

PROSPERO Protocol Number: CRD42020153153
The inverse problem for the heat equation with reflection of the argument and with a complex coefficient
Authors: Mussirepova Elmira , Sarsenbi Abdissalam , Sarsenbi Abdizhahan
Published: December 2022

The paper is devoted to finding a solution and restoring the right-hand side of the heat equation with reflection of the argument in the second derivative, with a complex-valued variable coefficient. We prove a theorem on the Riesz basis property for eigenfunctions of the second-order differential operator with involution in the second derivative. We establish the existence and uniqueness of the solution of the studied problems by the method of separation of variables
The global distribution and environmental drivers of the soil antibiotic resistome
Authors: Delgado-Baquerizo Manuel , Hu Hang-Wei , Maestre Fernando T. , Guerra Carlos A. , Eisenhauer Nico , Eldridge David J. , Zhu Yong-Guan , Chen Qing-Lin , Trivedi Pankaj , Du Shuai , Makhalanyane Thulani P. , Verma Jay Prakash , Gozalo Beatriz , Ochoa Victoria , Asensio Sergio , Wang Ling , Zaady Eli , Illán Javier G. , Siebe Christina , Grebenc Tine , Zhou Xiaobing , Liu Yu-Rong , Bamigboye Adebola R. , Blanco-Pastor José L. , Duran Jorge , Rodríguez Alexandra , Mamet Steven , Alfaro Fernando , Abades Sebastian , Teixido Alberto L. , Peñaloza-Bojacá Gabriel F. , Molina-Montenegro Marco A. , Torres-Díaz Cristian , Perez Cecilia , Gallardo Antonio , García-Velázquez Laura , Hayes Patrick E. , Neuhauser Sigrid , He Ji-Zheng
Published: December 2022

Background

Little is known about the global distribution and environmental drivers of key microbial functional traits such as antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Soils are one of Earth’s largest reservoirs of ARGs, which are integral for soil microbial competition, and have potential implications for plant and human health. Yet, their diversity and global patterns remain poorly described. Here, we analyzed 285 ARGs in soils from 1012 sites across all continents and created the first global atlas with the distributions of topsoil ARGs.

Results

We show that ARGs peaked in high latitude cold and boreal forests. Climatic seasonality and mobile genetic elements, associated with the transmission of antibiotic resistance, were also key drivers of their global distribution. Dominant ARGs were mainly related to multidrug resistance genes and efflux pump machineries. We further pinpointed the global hotspots of the diversity and proportions of soil ARGs.

Conclusions

Together, our work provides the foundation for a better understanding of the ecology and global distribution of the environmental soil antibiotic resistome.
Distribution of Lewy-related pathology in the brain, spinal cord, and periphery: the population-based Vantaa 85 + study
Authors: Raunio Anna , Kivistö Ville , Kero Mia , Tuimala Jarno , Savola Sara , Oinas Minna , Kok Eloise , Colangelo Kia , Paetau Anders , Polvikoski Tuomo , Tienari Pentti J. , Puttonen Henri , Myllykangas Liisa
Published: December 2022

Evolving evidence has supported the existence of two anatomically distinct Lewy-related pathology (LRP) types. Investigation of spinal cord and peripheral LRP can elucidate mechanisms of Lewy body disorders and origins of synuclein accumulation. Still, very few unselected studies have focused on LRP in these regions. Here we analysed LRP in spinal cord, dorsal root ganglion, and adrenal gland in the population-based Vantaa 85 + study, including every ≥ 85 years old citizen living in the city of Vantaa in 1991 (n = 601). Samples from spinal cord (C6-7, TH3-4, L3-4, S1-2) were available from 303, lumbar dorsal root ganglion from 219, and adrenal gland from 164 subjects. Semiquantitative scores of LRP were determined from immunohistochemically stained sections (anti-alpha-synuclein antibody 5G4). LRP in the ventral and dorsal horns of spinal cord, thoracic intermediolateral column, dorsal root ganglion and adrenal gland were compared with brain LRP, previously determined according to DLB Consortium criteria and by caudo-rostral versus amygdala-based LRP classification. Spinal LRP was found in 28% of the total population and in 61% of those who had LRP in the brain. Spinal cord LRP was found only in those subjects with LRP in the brain, and the quantity of spinal cord LRP was associated with the severity of brain LRP (p < 0.001). Unsupervised K-means analysis identified two cluster types of spinal and brain LRP corresponding to caudo-rostral and amygdala-based LRP types. The caudo-rostral LRP type exhibited more frequent and severe pathology in spinal cord, dorsal root ganglion and adrenal gland than the amygdala-based LRP type. Analysis of specific spinal cord regions showed that thoracic intermediolateral column and sacral dorsal horn were the most frequently affected regions in both LRP types. This population-based study on brain, spinal and peripheral LRP provides support to the concept of at least two distinct LRP types.
Counting microalgae cultures with a stereo microscope and a cell phone using deep learning online resources
Authors: Proença Maria da Conceição , Barbosa Miguel , Amorim Ana
Published: December 2022

Background

This work presents an experience done to evaluate the number of very small objects in the field of view of a stereo microscope, which are usually counted by direct observation, with or without the use of grids as visual aids. We intend to show that deep learning recent algorithms like YOLO v5 are adequate to use in the evaluation of the number of objects presented, which can easily reach the 1000 s. This kind of algorithm is open-source software, requiring a minimum of skills to install and run on a regular laptop. We further intend to show that the robustness of these kinds of approaches using convolutional neural networks allowed for the use of images of less quality, such as the images acquired with a cell phone.

Results

The results of training the algorithm and counting microalgae in cell phone images were assessed through human curation in a set of test images and showed a high correlation, showing good precision and accuracy in detections.

Conclusions

This is a low-cost alternative available worldwide to many more facilities than expensive cameras and high-maintenance rigid set-ups, along with software packages with a slow learning curve, therefore enlarging the scope of this technique to areas of knowledge where the conditions of laboratory and human work are a limiting factor.
The skin microbiota of the axolotl Ambystoma altamirani is highly influenced by metamorphosis and seasonality but not by pathogen infection
Authors: Martínez-Ugalde Emanuel , Ávila-Akerberg Víctor , González Martínez Tanya M. , Vázquez Trejo Montserrat , Zavala Hernández Dalia , Anaya-Morales Sara Lucia , Rebollar Eria A.
Published: December 2022

Background

Microbiomes have been increasingly recognized as major contributors to host health and survival. In amphibians, bacterial members of the skin microbiota protect their hosts by inhibiting the growth of the fungal pathogenBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd). Even though several studies describe the influence of biotic and abiotic factors over the skin microbiota, it remains unclear how these symbiotic bacterial communities vary across time and development. This is particularly relevant for species that undergo metamorphosis as it has been shown that host physiology and ecology drastically influence diversity of the skin microbiome.

Results

We found that the skin bacterial communities of the axolotlA. altamiraniare largely influenced by the metamorphic status of the host and by seasonal variation of abiotic factors such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and conductivity. Despite high Bd prevalence in these samples, the bacterial diversity of the skin microbiota did not differ between infected and non-infected axolotls, although relative abundance of particular bacteria were correlated with Bd infection intensity.

Conclusions

Our work shows that metamorphosis is a crucial process that shapes skin bacterial communities and that axolotls under different developmental stages respond differently to environmental seasonal variations. Moreover, this study greatly contributes to a better understanding of the factors that shape amphibian skin microbiota, especially in a largely underexplored group like axolotls (MexicanAmbystomaspecies).
Fast-track surgery and telerehabilitation protocol in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty leads to superior outcomes when compared with the standard protocol: a propensity-matched pilot study
Authors: De Berardinis Luca , Senarighi Marco , Ciccullo Carlo , Forte Fabiana , Spezia Marco , Gigante Antonio Pompilio
Published: December 2022

Background

Several strategies have been devised to reduce the length of stay after orthopedic surgery. Telerehabilitation has proved effective in functional outcomes after orthopedic procedures and is appreciated by patients. There is limited information on fast-track surgery and telerehabilitation protocols for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). The purpose of this pilot study was to report and compare functional outcomes and satisfaction levels during first 12 months of recovery in patients who underwent UKA according to a fast-track and telerehabilitation protocol (G1) or standard surgery and rehabilitation program (G2).

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected and reviewed for all elective UKAs from January 2018 to November 2019. A total of seven patients undergoing UKA according to the fast-track and telerehabilitation protocol were propensity score matched (1:3 ratio) to 21 patients undergoing standard surgery and rehabilitation. Patients were matched for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and laterality. The Western Ontario and McMaster University (WOMAC) osteoarthritis index and range of motion (ROM) were collected pre- and postoperatively in both groups for 12 months. In addition, patient’ satisfaction was collected at 40 days.

Results

The G1 group demonstrated significantly better outcomes in WOMAC index scores at 2, 15, and 40 days (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.020, respectively) and a significantly greater knee ROM after surgery and at 2, 15, 40, and 12 months (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.014, p < 0.001, p = 0.003, respectively). No patients in either group had postoperative complications. One patient was not completely satisfied in the G2, while no one in G1 reported not being completely satisfied (p = 1.000).

Conclusions

This fast-track and telerehabilitation protocol after UKA can potentially be applied to patients as it is safe and effective. At 12-months follow-up, both groups reported favorable outcomes after UKA. However, the G1 score was better regarding WOMAC and ROM when compared with the propensity score-matched G2 program. A larger study is warranted to explore the role of fast-track and telerehabilitation in clinical and functional outcomes of UKA.
Gastroprotective effects of Combretum paniculatum (Combretaceae) leaf extract and fractions on absolute ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats
Authors: Emmanuel Peter Ikechukwu , Sandra Ugwu Chikamso , Marytheresa Onwuka Akachukwu , Nwakaego Mbaoji Florence , Nneoma Ofokansi Martha , Azubuike Onyeto Collins , Uzor Philip F.
Published: December 2022

Background

Combretum paniculatum(Combretaceae) Vent. is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat ulcers and gastrointestinal disorders, including distended spleens and the liver. This study investigated the gastroprotective effects ofC. paniculatumleaf extract and its fractions on absolute ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats and explored their effects on endogenous antioxidant (SOD, MDA, GSH, and Catalase) levels. Butanol, n-hexane, and ethyl acetate extracts (100 and 200 mg/kg), omeprazole (20 mg/kg), and control (3% Tween 80) were administered orally.

Results

The methanolic extract and fractions ofC. paniculatumexhibited varying degrees of ulcer protection. MECP exhibited significant (P < 0.05) ulcer protection (55.56%) at 200 mg/kg; at 100 and 200 mg/kg, HFCP induced considerable (P < 0.01 & 0.001) ulcer reduction (64.44% and 80.00%), respectively; EAFCP offered substantial (P < 0.05) ulcer reduction (57.78%) at 200 mg/kg, whereas BFCP produced significant (P < 0.01) ulcer protection (73.33% and 68.89%) at 100 and 200 mg/kg against absolute ethanol-induced ulcer. MDA levels were substantially reduced after pretreatment with the extract and fractions, whereas SOD, GSH, and catalase levels were significantly enhanced.

Conclusion

These findings suggest thatC. paniculatumleaf extract and fractions possess gastroprotective actions against ethanol-induced ulcers and exert these effects through antioxidant mechanisms. Therefore, the traditional use ofC. paniculatumleaves in the treatment of ulcers is justified.
Nelsonia canescens (Acanthaceae) aqueous extract and partitioned fractions ameliorates type-2 diabetes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Daniel Augustine Innalegwu , Gara Theresa Yebo , Atolagbe Solomon Oluwafemi , Agboola Aleemat Motunrayo , Salisu Firdausi Emoshioke , Tsado Rhoda , Fadaka Adewale Oluwaseun , Mavumengwana Vuyo , Keyster Marshall , Klein Ashwil
Published: December 2022

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin. There is a continuous rise of this disease particularly in developing countries due to changes in life style and poverty among the people. In this study, antidiabetic activities of aqueous extract of Nelsonia canescens and its partitioned fractions in alloxan-induced diabetic rats were evaluated. Male albino rats were divided into 9 groups (diabetic and non-diabetic) of 5 rats each. Diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal administration of alloxan (90 mg/kgbwt). The experimental design consists of a diabetic control group (untreated), a normal control group (1 mL saline), a standard diabetic drug (Glibenclamide; 5 mg/kgbwt), two doses (50 and 300 mg/kgbwt) of aqueous extract, ethyl acetate and methanol fractions of Nelsonia canescens were orally administered for a period 21 days. Blood glucose of the rats was monitored at 3-days intervals while biochemical and in vivo antioxidant assays of serum and liver were determined after 21 days.

Results

The hypoglycemic effect of the extract observed was in a dose dependent manner with a significant reduction (p < 0.05) of blood glucose in ethylaceate fraction > aqueous extract > methanol fraction compared with the diabetic control group. A significant difference (p < 0.05) in lipid profiles and serum enzyme activity of rats in the diabetic control group was observed compared with the extract and fraction treated groups.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the aqueous extract and fractions of N. canescens showed hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic potentials and significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the progression of oxidative stress.