bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-resolution DNA methylation screening of the major histocompatibility complex in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ma Qin , Augusto Danillo G. , Montero-Martin Gonzalo , Caillier Stacy J. , Osoegawa Kazutoyo , Cree Bruce A. C. , Hauser Stephen L. , Didonna Alessandro , Hollenbach Jill A. , Norman Paul J. , Fernandez-Vina Marcelo , Oksenberg Jorge R.
Published: December 2023

Background

The HLA-DRB1 gene in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region in chromosome 6p21 is the strongest genetic factor identified as influencing multiple sclerosis (MS) susceptibility. DNA methylation changes associated with MS have been consistently detected at the MHC region. However, understanding the full scope of epigenetic regulations of the MHC remains incomplete, due in part to the limited coverage of this region by standard whole genome bisulfite sequencing or array-based methods.

Methods

We developed and validated an MHC capture protocol coupled with bisulfite sequencing and conducted a comprehensive analysis of the MHC methylation landscape in blood samples from 147 treatment naïve MS study participants and 129 healthy controls.

Results

We identified 132 differentially methylated region (DMRs) within MHC region associated with disease status. The DMRs overlapped with established MS risk loci. Integration of the MHC methylome with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genetic data indicate that the methylation changes are significantly associated with HLA genotypes. Using DNA methylation quantitative trait loci (mQTL) mapping and the causal inference test (CIT), we identified 643 cis-mQTL-DMRs paired associations, including 71 DMRs possibly mediating causal relationships between 55 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and MS risk.

Results

The results describe MS-associated methylation changes in MHC region and highlight the association between HLA genotypes and methylation changes. Results from the mQTL and CIT analyses provide evidence linking MHC region variations, methylation changes, and disease risk for MS.
Memantine protects the cultured rat hippocampal neurons treated by NMDA and amyloid β1–42
Authors: Rozumna Nataliia M. , Hanzha Vita V. , Lukyanetz Elena A.
Published: December 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative condition with no effective treatments. Recent research highlights the role of NMDA receptors in AD development, as excessive activation of these receptors triggers excitotoxicity. Memantine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, shows promise in curbing excitotoxicity. What sets our study apart is our novel exploration of memantine’s potential to protect hippocampal neurons from neurotoxicity induced by NMDA and amyloid β1–42, a hallmark of AD. To achieve this, we conducted a series of experiments using rat hippocampal cell cultures. We employed Hoechst and propidium iodide double staining to assess neuronal viability. Analyzing the viability of neurons in normal conditions compared to their status after 24 h of exposure to the respective agents revealed compelling results. The incubation of hippocampal neurons with NMDA or amyloid β1–42 led to a more than twofold increase in the number of apoptotic and necrotic neurons. However, when memantine was co-administered with NMDA or amyloid β1–42, we witnessed a notable augmentation in the number of viable cells. This unique approach not only suggests that memantine may act as a neuroprotective agent but also emphasizes the relevance of hippocampal neuron cultures as valuable models for investigating excitotoxicity and potential AD treatments.
Dysfunction of the glymphatic system in childhood absence epilepsy
Authors: Pu Wanqing , Wei Shanzhen , Qiu Mengdi , Chen Xiaoyu , Zou Wenwei , Ge Yingchao , Qiu Wenchao
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the glymphatic system in childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) using diffusion tensor image analysis along the paravascular space (DTI-ALPS) index. Methods: Forty-two CAE patients and 50 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HC) were included in this study. All participants underwent scanning using a Siemens 3.0 T magnetic resonance scanner, and the DTI-ALPS index was calculated. The study compared the differences of DTI-ALPS index between CAE patients and the healthy controls. Additionally, this study also assessed the relationship between the DTI-ALPS index and clinical characteristics such as age, seizure frequency, and duration of epilepsy.

Results

The DTI-ALPS index was lower in CAE patients compared to the healthy controls (1.45 ± 0.36 vs. 1.66 ± 0.30, p < 0.01). The DTI-ALPS index showed a negative correlation with the duration of epilepsy (r = −0.48, p < 0.01) and a positive correlation with age (r = 0.766, p < 0.01) in CAE patients. However, no significant correlation was observed between the DTI-ALPS index and seizure frequency.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that children with CAE exhibit dysfunction in the glymphatic system of the brain, which might contribute to understanding the pathophysiological mechanism of CAE. The DTI-ALPS, as a non-invasive diagnostic marker, can be used to assess the function of the glymphatic system in CAE patients, providing promising applications in the diagnosis and research of CAE.
Comparative bioactivity evaluation and metabolic profiling of different parts of Duhaldea nervosa based on GC-MS and LC-MS
Authors: Zhao Qian , Li Yuan , Li Si , He Xiaofeng , Gu Rui
Published: December 2023

Duhaldea nervosa (Wallich ex Candolle) Anderberg has been widely used as medicine and food additive in China for a long history. Its roots, known as Xiaoheiyao, are the mainly used medicinal part, while the other tissues of D. nervosa are ignored as non-medicinal parts despite their high biomass, resulting in a huge waste of resources. To mine and expand the medicinal values of different parts of D. nervosa, metabolic analysis by GC/LC-MS and bioactivity evaluation were performed. Based on the antioxidant activity and correlation analysis, a metabolite-related network was constructed. A total of 45 volatile and 174 non-volatile compounds were identified. Among them, caffeoylquinic acids and derivatives were more abundant in roots and flowers, while coumaroyltartaric acids and derivatives were mainly present in stems and leaves. By multivariate analysis, 13 volatile and 37 non-volatile differential metabolites were found, respectively. In the bioactivity evaluation of different parts, the order of antioxidant capacity was flowers > roots > leaves or stems. The flowers showed the highest FRAP value (354.47 μM TE/g DW) and the lowest IC50 values in the DPPH (0.06 mg/mL) and ABTS (0.19 mg/mL) assay, while higher inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase was exhibited by flowers and leaves. This study first established the similarities and differences of phytochemicals and bioactivities in D. nervosa, providing a scientific basis for developing non-medicinal parts and guiding the clinical application of this medicinal and edible herb.
Inflammation-related prognostic markers in resected hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Giannone Fabio , Slovic Nevena , Pessaux Patrick , Schuster Catherine , Baumert Thomas F. , Lupberger Joachim
Published: December 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma is usually detected late and therapeutic options are unsatisfactory. Despite marked progress in patient care, HCC remains among the deadliest cancers world-wide. While surgical resection remains a key option for early-stage HCC, the 5-year survival rates after surgical resection are limited. One reason for limited outcomes is the lack of reliable prognostic biomarkers to predict HCC recurrence. HCC prognosis has been shown to correlate with different systemic and pathological markers which are associated with patient survival and HCC recurrence. Liver inflammatory processes offer a large variety of systemic and pathological markers which may be exploited to improve the reliability of prognosis and decision making of liver surgeons and hepatologists. The following review aims to dissect the potential tools, targets and prognostic meaning of inflammatory markers in patients with resectable HCC. We analyze changes in circulant cellular populations and assess inflammatory biomarkers as a surrogate of impaired outcomes and provide an overview on predictive gene expression signatures including inflammatory transcriptional patterns, which are representative of poor survival in these patients.
Changes in adhesion molecules: β-catenin, E-cadherin and Galectin-3 in cells of testicular seminoma
Authors: Młynarczyk Grzegorz , Domian Natalia , Kasacka Irena
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The most common testicular tumors are seminomas. They are characterized by rapid growth and a very high potential for metastasis to other organs. Mutual interactions of tumor cells play an important role in the invasiveness and metastatic capacity, in which complexes of adhesion proteins play a special role. There is a lack of studies on changes in these molecules and their behaviour in testicular cancer. The aim of the study was immunohistochemical identification and evalutaion of adhesive molecules β-catenin, E-cadherin, galectin-3 in testicular cancer – seminoma.

Methods

Tests were performed on sections of testicular cancer – seminoma in comparison with unchanged tissue samples as a control. Material was taken from 30 patients who underwent orchiectomy. Immunohistochemistry and PCR were used to identify β-catenin, E-cadherin and galectin-3 and gene expression.

Results

Immunoreactivity and expression of β-catenin and E-cadherin in seminomas were markedly decreased compared to non-cancerous testicular tissue. Galectin-3 immunoreactivity was found in both control and cancerous tissue, but in different location. In non-cancerous tissue, it was localized in the cytoplasm of the cells of the seminiferous tubules, in seminomas it was localized mainly in the endothelium. The expression of the Lgals3 gene encoding galectin-3 in seminomas was slightl higher in relation to the tissue unchanged by the carcinogenetic process.

Conclusions

The results of the study suggest a significant role of β-catenin, E-cadherin and galectin-3 in the carcinogenesis of seminomas and may indicate new aspects of the patomechanism of seminomas formation, and thus time lead to better understand the biology of these tumors.
Anti-tumor target screening of sea cucumber saponin Frondoside A: a bioinformatics and molecular docking analysis
Authors: Liu Guangchun , Zhang Shenglin , Lin Ruoyan , Cao Xudong , Yuan Lihong
Published: December 2023

Cancer remains the leading cause of death worldwide. In spite of significant advances in targeted and immunotherapeutic approaches, clinical outcomes for cancer remain poor. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential mechanisms and therapeutic targets of Frondoside A for the treatment of liver, pancreatic, and bladder cancers. The data presented in our study demonstrated that Frondoside A reduced the viability and migration of HepG2, Panc02, and UM-UC-3 cancer cell in vitro. Moreover, we utilized the GEO database to screen and identify for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in liver, pancreatic, and bladder cancers, which resulted in the identification of 714, 357, and 101 DEGs, respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway annotation were performed using the Metascape database for DEGs that were significantly associated with cancer development. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks of the identified DEGs in liver, pancreatic, and bladder cancers were analyzed using Cytoscape 3.9.0 software, and subsequently identified potential key genes that were associated with these networks. Subsequently, their prognostic values were assessed by gene expression level analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis (GEPIA). Furthermore, we utilized TIMER 2.0 to investigate the correlation between the expression of the identified key gene and cancer immune infiltration. Finally, molecular docking simulations were performed to assess the affinity of Frondoside A and key genes. Our results showed a significant correlation between these DEGs and cancer progression. Combined, these analyses revealed that Frondoside A involves in the regulation of multiple pathways, such as drug metabolism, cell cycle in liver cancer by inhibiting the expression of CDK1, TOP2A, CDC20, and KIF20A, and regulates protein digestion and absorption, receptor interaction in pancreatic cancer by down-regulation of ASPM, TOP2A, DLGAP5, TPX2, KIF23, MELK, LAMA3, and ANLN. While in bladder cancer, Frondoside A regulates muscle contraction, complement and coagulation cascade by increase FLNC expression. In conclusion, the present study offers valuable insights into the molecular mechanism underlying the anticancer effects of Frondoside A, and suggests that Frondoside A can be used as a functional food supplement or further developed as a natural anti-cancer drug.
A single scalp nodule as the first presentation of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (KMT2A::MLLT3) in a healthy-appearing infant: a case report
Authors: Pellegrino Francesco , Coppo Paola , Barisone Elena , Bertorello Nicoletta , Spadea Manuela , Fagioli Franca
Published: December 2023

Background

Infant leukemia is a rare form of acute leukemia diagnosed prior to the age of 1 and is characterized by an extremely poor prognosis due to its dismal response to current therapeutic approaches. It comprises about 4% of all childhood cases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Isolated initial cutaneous involvement in ALL is uncommon, and even more so in infant ALL.

Case presentation

Here, we present the case of a 2-month-old healthy-appearing infant, initially presenting with a single scalp nodule and subsequently diagnosed with an infant ALL. The leukemia was characterized by the most immature B-lineage immunophenotype [pro-B ALL/B-I, according to the European Group for the Immunological Characterization of Leukaemias (EGIL) classification] and chromosomal translocation t(9;11)(p22;q23), resulting in fusion gene KMTLA2::MLLT3, which is considered a negative prognostic factor. The patient underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and is still in remission.

Conclusions

This case is peculiar because of the rare occurrence of isolated initial cutaneous involvement in ALL. Despite the healthy appearance of the patient, every suspicious symptom suggestive of malignancies should be further investigated to anticipate the diagnosis and start treatment early.
Clinical and economic impact of partnered pharmacist medication charting in the emergency department
Authors: Atey Tesfay Mehari , Peterson Gregory M. , Salahudeen Mohammed S. , Simpson Tom , Boland Camille M. , Anderson Ed , Wimmer Barbara C.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Partnered pharmacist medication charting (PPMC), a process redesign hypothesised to improve medication safety and interdisciplinary collaboration, was trialed in a tertiary hospital’s emergency department (ED).

Objective: To evaluate the health-related impact and economic benefit of PPMC.

Methods: A pragmatic, controlled study compared PPMC to usual care in the ED. PPMC included a pharmacist-documented best-possible medication history (BPMH), followed by a clinical conversation between a pharmacist and a medical officer to jointly develop a treatment plan and chart medications. Usual care included medical officer-led traditional medication charting in the ED, without a pharmacist-obtained BPMH or clinical conversation. Outcome measures, assessed after propensity score matching, were length of hospital or ED stay, relative stay index (RSI), in-hospital mortality, 30-day hospital readmissions or ED revisits, and cost.

Results: A total of 309 matched pairs were analysed. The median RSI was reduced by 15.4% with PPMC (p = 0.029). There were no significant differences between the groups in the median length of ED stay (8 vs. 10 h, p = 0.52), in-hospital mortality (1.3% vs. 1.3%, p > 0.99), 30-day readmission rates (21% vs. 17%; p = 0.35) and 30-day ED revisit rates (21% vs. 19%; p = 0.68). The hospital spent approximately $138.4 for the cost of PPMC care per patient to avert at least one medication error bearing high/extreme risk. PPMC saved approximately $1269 on the average cost of each admission.

Conclusion: Implementing the ED-based PPMC model was associated with a significantly reduced RSI and admission costs, but did not affect clinical outcomes, noting that there was an additional focus on medication reconciliation in the usual care group relative to current practice at our study site.
Four-body bound states in momentum space: the Yakubovsky approach without two-body t − matrices
Authors: Mohammadzadeh M. , Radin M. , Mohseni K. , Hadizadeh M. R.
Published: December 2023

This study presents a solution to the Yakubovsky equations for four-body bound states in momentum space, bypassing the common use of two-body t − matrices. Typically, such solutions are dependent on the fully-off-shell two-body t − matrices, which are obtained from the Lippmann-Schwinger integral equation for two-body subsystem energies controlled by the second and third Jacobi momenta. Instead, we use a version of the Yakubovsky equations that does not require t − matrices, facilitating the direct use of two-body interactions. This approach streamlines the programming and reduces computational time. Numerically, we found that this direct approach to the Yakubovsky equations, using 2B interactions, produces four-body binding energy results consistent with those obtained from the conventional t − matrix dependent Yakubovsky equations, for both separable (Yamaguchi and Gaussian) and non-separable (Malfliet-Tjon) interactions.
Wild grapes of Armenia: unexplored source of genetic diversity and disease resistance
Authors: Margaryan Kristine , Töpfer Reinhard , Gasparyan Boris , Arakelyan Arsen , Trapp Oliver , Röckel Franco , Maul Erika
Published: December 2023

The present study is the first in-depth research evaluating the genetic diversity and potential resistance of Armenian wild grapes utilizing DNA-based markers to understand the genetic signature of this unexplored germplasm. In the proposed research, five geographical regions with known viticultural history were explored. A total of 148 unique wild genotypes were collected and included in the study with 48 wild individuals previously collected as seed. A total of 24 nSSR markers were utilized to establish a fingerprint database to infer information on the population genetic diversity and structure. Three nSSR markers linked to the Ren1 locus were analyzed to identify potential resistance against powdery mildew. According to molecular fingerprinting data, the Armenian V. sylvestris gene pool conserves a high genetic diversity, displaying 292 different alleles with 12.167 allele per loci. The clustering analyses and diversity parameters supported eight genetic groups with 5.6% admixed proportion. The study of genetic polymorphism at the Ren1 locus revealed that 28 wild genotypes carried three R-alleles and 34 wild genotypes carried two R-alleles associated with PM resistance among analyzed 107 wild individuals. This gene pool richness represents an immense reservoir of under-explored genetic diversity and breeding potential. Therefore, continued survey and research efforts are crucial for the conservation, sustainable management, and utilization of Armenian wild grape resources in the face of emerging challenges in viticulture.
Linking functional composition moments of the sub-Mediterranean ecotone with environmental drivers
Authors: de Tomás Marín Sergio , Galán Díaz Javier , Rodríguez-Calcerrada Jesús , Prieto Iván , de la Riva Enrique G.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Functional trait-based approaches are extensively applied to the study of mechanisms governing community assembly along environmental gradients. These approaches have been classically based on studying differences in mean values among species, but there is increasing recognition that alternative metrics of trait distributions should be considered to decipher the mechanisms determining community assembly and species coexistence. Under this framework, the main aim of this study is to unravel the effects of environmental conditions as drivers of plant community assembly in sub-Mediterranean ecotones.

Methods

We set 60 plots in six plant communities of a sub-Mediterranean forest in Central Spain, and measured key above- and belowground functional traits in 411 individuals belonging to 19 species, along with abiotic variables. We calculated community-weighted mean (CWM), skewness (CWS) and kurtosis (CWK) of three plant dimensions, and used maximum likelihood techniques to analyze how variation in these functional community traits was driven by abiotic factors. Additionally, we estimated the relative contribution of intraspecific trait variability and species turnover to variation in CWM.

Results and discussion

The first three axes of variation of the principal component analyses were related to three main plant ecological dimensions: Leaf Economics Spectrum, Root Economics Spectrum and plant hydraulic architecture, respectively. Type of community was the most important factor determining differences in the functional structure among communities, as compared to the role of abiotic variables. We found strong differences among communities in their CWMs in line with their biogeographic origin (Eurosiberian vs Mediterranean), while differences in CWS and CWK indicate different trends in the functional structure among communities and the coexistence of different functional strategies, respectively. Moreover, changes in functional composition were primarily due to intraspecific variability.

Conclusion

We observed a high number of strategies in the forest with the different communities spreading along the acquisitive-conservative axis of resource-use, partly matching their Eurosiberian-Mediterranean nature, respectively. Intraspecific trait variability, rather than species turnover, stood as the most relevant factor when analyzing functional changes and assembly patterns among communities. Altogether, our data support the notion that ecotones are ecosystems where relatively minor environmental shifts may result in changes in plant and functional composition.
Homemaking away from home: a semiotic cultural psychology perspective
Authors: Märtsin Mariann
Published: December 2023

How do migrants create a sense of home in the context of migration? What does it mean for a person to physically move away from one home and psychologically move toward another one somewhere else? How do migrants create a sense of continuity between the home that is no longer there and the home that is not yet here? This theoretical article is an invitation to address these questions from a semiotic cultural psychology perspective. The article emphasizes the importance of both geographical and semiotic movements in understanding the migration process. It shifts the focus away from tangible aspects of migration and toward the imagined and desired aspects of the process of homemaking. The concept of home is explored as a semiotic construction that guides human meaning-making processes, emphasizing its affective value and highlighting the dynamic dialectics of home and non-home. This alternative conceptualization offers new ways of understanding homemaking and being at home, beyond the commonly celebrated ideals of being settled or always being on the move. Finally, the article discusses the dynamic and developmental nature of migration, which can both threaten and open up opportunities for transformation and development, and suggests some general methodological principles that could guide research concerning the interplay between homemaking, migration, and culture.
Relationship between thyroid-stimulating hormone, BDNF levels, and hippocampal volume in antipsychotic-naïve first-episode psychosis patients
Authors: Toll Alba , Blanco-Hinojo Laura , Berge Daniel , Manzano Ana , El Abidi Khadija , Perez-Solà Víctor , Mané Anna
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Thyroid hormones play an essential role in hippocampal development, a key structure in psychosis. However, the role of these hormones in first-episode psychosis (FEP) has received limited attention. It has been hypothesized that thyroid hormones could cause morphological modifications in the hippocampal structure through the upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In this study, we primarily aimed to determine the relationship between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, peripheral BDNF levels, and hippocampal volume in antipsychotic-naïve FEP patients. We also aimed to determine whether TSH levels were associated with clinical symptomatology.

Materials and methods

A total of 50 antipsychotic-naïve FEP patients were included in the study. At baseline, we collected fasting blood samples and registered sociodemographic and clinical variables (substance use, DUP, PANSS, GAF, and CDSS). Structural T1 MRI was performed at baseline to quantify brain volumes. No control group was used for this study.

Results

Of the 50 patients, more than one-third (36%) presented alterations in TSH levels, mainly elevated levels (32% of patients). The TSH levels were inversely correlated with both peripheral BDNF and hippocampal volume. On the multivariate analysis, the model that best predicted the relative hippocampal volume was a single variable model (TSH levels). No significant association was observed between TSH levels and clinical symptomatology.

Discussion

These results suggest that thyroid hormones could have a neuroprotective effect on the hippocampus in FEP patients, possibly through their effect by increasing BDNF concentrations, which could attenuate brain injury and neuroinflammation. Nevertheless, thyroid hormones could also affect hippocampal volume through other pathways.
Spatiotemporal evolution of healthcare service capacity at township health centers in China
Authors: Chen Hong , Zhao Liyang , Yu Jin
Published: December 2023

Introduction

This study analyzes the efficiency, spatiotemporal evolution, and influencing factors of provincial township health centers' healthcare service capacity in China.

Method

It utilizes an unexpected output super-efficiency slacks-based measure (SBM) model, exploratory spatiotemporal data analysis methods, and a quantile regression model.

Results

The results show that the healthcare service capacity of township health centers is better in provinces with a larger proportion of hierarchical diagnoses and treatments pilot projects in cities, and the regional efficiency trend is ordered central > eastern > western > northeastern. The healthcare service capacity of provincial township health centers mainly shows significant spatial correlation and a spatiotemporal distribution pattern of “high agglomeration, low differentiation.”

Discussion

Rural population density and per capita GDP significantly improve the healthcare service capacity of township health centers, while local governments' healthcare and health expenditure increases the healthcare service capacity of township health centers in certain quantiles. The urbanization rate and per capita disposable income inhibit the improvement of the healthcare service capacity of township health centers in certain quantiles. The provinces should accelerate the promotion of hierarchical diagnoses and treatment pilot projects in cities and establish national cooperative development models to promote public health.
A review of knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding mosquitoes and mosquito-borne infectious diseases in nonendemic regions
Authors: Duval Pénélope , Aschan-Leygonie Christina , Valiente Moro Claire
Published: December 2023

Mosquito-borne infectious diseases (MBIDs) present significant public health risks within tropical and subtropical regions. However, the rapid spread of MBIDs from these areas to temperate regions increase the risk of their emergence in nonendemic regions, i.e., regions where diseases are still sporadic and not sustained in the population. Raising awareness about preventive measures and protective behaviors is of primary importance to face the risks of vector-borne diseases. In this context, the number of studies on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) about mosquitoes and MBIDs has grown rapidly in response to the need to identify knowledge and practices in nonendemic countries to fight mosquito proliferation. Building upon the recent developments in this field, we conducted the first-ever literature review to examine KAP studies conducted in nonendemic regions. Our aim was to identify the community’s knowledge and attitudes that shape practices concerning the prevention of MBIDs. We used specific keywords regarding the scope of this review and then selected studies that were performed in nonendemic regions for MBIDs, including regions located in European countries, the USA or Asia. We identified 32 KAP studies, the oldest from 2003. The findings in the reviewed studies show that survey participants generally possessed a rather good understanding of mosquito breeding sites. However, there were notable variations in knowledge and perception of MBIDs, primarily linked to the geographic location of the survey and the prevalence of infectious outbreaks related to mosquito transmission. These findings highlight the significant influence of knowledge and awareness in fostering effective mosquito control practices. Moreover, socioeconomic status, particularly educational attainment, and respondents’ gender emerged as key determinants in explaining the variability of appropriate practices. The survey results thus show the crucial role of knowledge, emphasizing the need for widespread awareness and information campaigns, encompassing both appropriate practices and efficient mosquito control methods. Understanding the interaction between these factors could provide good guidelines for implementing awareness plans and ultimately motivate the population to actively fight against mosquito proliferation and MBIDs development.
Feasibility pilot study of a Japanese teaching kitchen program
Authors: Baden Megu Y. , Kato Sarasa , Niki Akiko , Hara Tomoyuki , Ozawa Harutoshi , Ishibashi Chisaki , Hosokawa Yoshiya , Fujita Yukari , Fujishima Yuya , Nishizawa Hitoshi , Kozawa Junji , Muraki Isao , Furuya Yusuke , Yonekura Akio , Shigyo Tatsuro , Kawabe Taro , Shimomura Iichiro , Eisenberg David M.
Published: December 2023

Background

This pilot study examined the feasibility of a new lifestyle modification program involving a “Teaching Kitchen” in Japan. Our goal was to explore (1) feasibility of the program; (2) acceptability for class frequency (weekly vs. bi-weekly); and (3) changes in biometrics, dietary intakes, and lifestyle factors.

Methods

A total of 24 employees with obesity in a Japanese company were recruited. Participants were randomly divided into two groups (weekly or bi-weekly group), each attending the program consisting of four two-hour classes (lectures on nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, and culinary instructions). Participants were observed for changes in dietary intakes, biometrics, and health related quality of life over the subsequent 3 months. We tested the between-group differences in changes using linear mixed-effect models.

Results

The program completion rates were 83.3% in total (91.7% for weekly group and 75.0% for bi-weekly group). From baseline to post-intervention, significant decreases were observed in weight (p < 0.001), body mass index (p < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.03), body fat mass (p < 0.001), and dietary intakes in total fat (p = 0.03) and sodium (p = 0.008) among 17 participants who were available for measurements. Improvements in biometrics remained significant 1 month after the intervention (all p ≤ 0.03 in 14 participants). Participants' health related quality of life was significantly improved in bodily pain, general health, vitality, and mental component score (all p ≤ 0.047).

Conclusions

The new Japanese Teaching Kitchen program is feasible with high program completion rates in Japanese office workers with obesity. While this was a small feasibility study, significant multiple improvements in dietary intakes, biometrics, and health related quality of life suggest that this line of inquiry warrants further exploration to address obesity and obesity-related diseases in Japan.
HipHop2SToP a community-led health promotion initiative empowering Aboriginal youth in the Kimberley region of Western Australia: a process evaluation
Authors: McRae Tracy , Walker Roz , Enkel Stephanie , Thomas Hannah M. M. , Jacky John , Sibosado Slade , Mullane Marianne , Maginnis Natasha , Coffin Juli , Carapetis Jonathan R. , Bowen Asha C.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

For millennia, Aboriginal people’s ways of knowing, doing and being were shared through art, song, and dance. Colonisation silenced these ways, affecting loss of self-determination for Aboriginal people. Over the past decade in Australia, hip-hop projects have become culturally appropriate approaches for health promotion. When community led, and Aboriginal worldviews centralised, hip-hop workshops are more likely to be effective. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a community-led health promotion hip-hop music video, ‘HipHop2SToP’ was produced involving young people in Dampier Peninsula communities address healthy skin and healthy living practices.

Methods

We report here a qualitative process evaluation of the HipHop2SToP project. Participants who had been involved in the planning and production of HipHop2SToP were selected using a purposive approach and invited either by email or face-to-face to participate in semi-structured interviews and share their experiences. Semi-structured interviews ranged from 30 to 60 min in duration and were conducted either face-to-face or virtually over MS Teams. Due to personal time constraints, two participants provided written responses to the semi-structured questions. All interviews were audio-recorded with consent and saved as a digital recording in a de-identified format. All audio recordings were transcribed verbatim and uploaded into QSR NVivo v12 along with written responses.

Results

As a health promotion project, the critical success factors were community-ownership and discovering novel ways to collaborate virtually with remote communities using Microsoft (MS) software. Highlights included observing the young people actively engaged in the project and their catchy lyrics and key messaging for environmental health and skin infections. COVID-19 presented some challenges. Gaps in communication, clarification of stakeholder roles and expectations, and post-production outcomes were also identified as challenges.

Conclusion

HipHop2SToP validates the need for Aboriginal community led health promotion programs. While creating some challenges COVID-19 also strengthened community ownership and created novel ways of maintaining relationships with remote Aboriginal communities. Future hip-hop projects would benefit from clarity of roles and responsibilities. Strengthening post-production outcomes by including a launch and well-planned, targeted communication and dissemination strategy will ensure the wider translation of important health messages and potential strengthen sustainability.
Development and evaluation of multimodal AI for diagnosis and triage of ophthalmic diseases using ChatGPT and anterior segment images: protocol for a two-stage cross-sectional study
Authors: Peng Zhiyu , Ma Ruiqi , Zhang Yihan , Yan Mingxu , Lu Jie , Cheng Qian , Liao Jingjing , Zhang Yunqiu , Wang Jinghan , Zhao Yue , Zhu Jiang , Qin Bing , Jiang Qin , Shi Fei , Qian Jiang , Chen Xinjian , Zhao Chen
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has made rapid progress for disease diagnosis and triage. In the field of ophthalmic diseases, image-based diagnosis has achieved high accuracy but still encounters limitations due to the lack of medical history. The emergence of ChatGPT enables human-computer interaction, allowing for the development of a multimodal AI system that integrates interactive text and image information.

Objective

To develop a multimodal AI system using ChatGPT and anterior segment images for diagnosing and triaging ophthalmic diseases. To assess the AI system's performance through a two-stage cross-sectional study, starting with silent evaluation and followed by early clinical evaluation in outpatient clinics.

Methods and analysis

Our study will be conducted across three distinct centers in Shanghai, Nanjing, and Suqian. The development of the smartphone-based multimodal AI system will take place in Shanghai with the goal of achieving ≥90% sensitivity and ≥95% specificity for diagnosing and triaging ophthalmic diseases. The first stage of the cross-sectional study will explore the system's performance in Shanghai's outpatient clinics. Medical histories will be collected without patient interaction, and anterior segment images will be captured using slit lamp equipment. This stage aims for ≥85% sensitivity and ≥95% specificity with a sample size of 100 patients. The second stage will take place at three locations, with Shanghai serving as the internal validation dataset, and Nanjing and Suqian as the external validation dataset. Medical history will be collected through patient interviews, and anterior segment images will be captured via smartphone devices. An expert panel will establish reference standards and assess AI accuracy for diagnosis and triage throughout all stages. A one-vs.-rest strategy will be used for data analysis, and a post-hoc power calculation will be performed to evaluate the impact of disease types on AI performance.

Discussion

Our study may provide a user-friendly smartphone-based multimodal AI system for diagnosis and triage of ophthalmic diseases. This innovative system may support early detection of ocular abnormalities, facilitate establishment of a tiered healthcare system, and reduce the burdens on tertiary facilities.

Trial registration

The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov on June 25th, 2023 (NCT 05930444).
Management of stage 1 renal cell cancer in patients immunosuppressed for organ transplantation or autoimmune disease
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Ali , Wendt Eric T. , Dolan Brendan , Craig Juliana , Allen Glenn O. , Abel E. Jason , Shapiro Daniel D.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To describe the treatment and outcomes of patients who are medically immunosuppressed due to prior organ transplantation or autoimmune disease with clinical T1 renal cell carcinoma (cT1).

Methods

An institutional database of patients treated for RCC was queried for patients with cT1 RCC and on chronic medical immunosuppression at the time of RCC diagnosis. The outcomes for patients undergoing (1) surgery, (2) ablation, or 3) active surveillance (AS) are described.

Results

Between 2010 and 2022, 74 medically immunosuppressed patients with RCC were identified and treated using surgery (n = 29), ablation (n = 33), or AS (n = 12). Seven (58%) AS patients underwent deferred treatment (six ablations and one nephrectomy) due to tumor growth. For surgery patients and ablation patients, the 30-day readmission rates [17% and 9%, respectively (p = 0.7)], and 90-day complication rates [24% and 21%, respectively (p = 0.9)] were similar. One (3%) surgical patient and two (6%) ablation patients recurred locally. Despite being immunosuppressed, only one (3%) surgical patient, one (3%) ablation patient, and no AS patients progressed to metastatic disease. No significant differences were noted for the local recurrence-free rates, metastasis-free rates, and overall survival for the three cohorts (p > 0.05 for all).

Conclusions

Patients with stage one RCC with medical immunosuppression can be safely managed through surgery, thermal ablation, or active surveillance, with similar outcomes to historical series of non-immunosuppressed patients. Future prospective studies should investigate shared decision making in this patient cohort and include discussion of less aggressive options that minimize morbidity but preserve oncologic control.
Plainfin Midshipman Fish: Songbirds of the Sea
Authors: Jasper Coty , Molano Olivia , Farbod Leila , Hayward Tamasen , Sisneros Joseph A. , Coffin Allison B.
Published: December 2023

Most of us have heard birds sing during the spring breeding season. Did you know that some fish also sing to attract mates? We study plainfin midshipman fish, a fascinating fish that makes its home along the Pacific Coast of North America. The big male fish sing during the summer months and their sound-producing muscles get bigger in the summer, probably to make them sound more attractive to females. Female midshipman fish go through seasonal changes, too. In the summer their hearing improves, which helps them pick the right male to mate with. We study hearing in female plainfin midshipman, measuring how their ears respond to sound and how the number of hearing cells in their ears changes between winter and summer. We want to know how seasonal changes in hormones affect hearing in this “songbird of the sea”.
Differences in countermovement vertical jump force-time metrics between starting and non-starting professional male basketball players
Authors: Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Cabarkapa Damjana V. , Aleksic Jelena , Philipp Nicolas M. , Scott Angeleau A. , Johnson Quincy R. , Fry Andrew C.
Published: December 2023

With force plates being widely implemented for neuromuscular performance assessment in sport-specific settings and various force-time metrics being able to differentiate athletes based on their performance capabilities, the purpose of the present study was to examine the differences in countermovement vertical jump (CVJ) characteristics between starting and non-starting professional male basketball players (e.g., ABA League). Twenty-three athletes (height = 199.2 ± 7.7 kg, body mass = 94.2 ± 8.2 kg, age = 23.8 ± 4.9 years) volunteered to participate in the present investigation. Upon completion of a standardized warm-up protocol, each athlete performed three maximal-effort CVJs without an arm swing while standing on a uni-axial force plate system sampling at 1,000 Hz. Independentt-tests were used to examine statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in each force-time metric between starters (n = 10) and non-starters (n = 13). No significant differences in any of the CVJ force-time metrics of interest were observed between the two groups, during both the eccentric and concentric phases of the movement (i.e., impulse, duration, peak velocity, and mean and peak force and power). Moreover, starters and non-starters demonstrated similar performance on CVJ outcome (e.g., jump height) and strategy metrics (e.g., countermovement depth). Overall, these findings suggest that at the professional level of play, the ability to secure a spot in the starting lineup is not primarily determined by the players' CVJ performance characteristics.
Clinical and systems of care factors contributing to individual patient decision-making for early mobilization post-stroke
Authors: Rethnam Venesha , Hayward Kathryn S. , Johns Hannah , Carvalho Lilian B. , Churilov Leonid , Bernhardt Julie
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Many stroke guidelines recommend against starting intensive out-of-bed activity (mobilization) within 24 h post-stroke. Few guidelines address care after the first 24–48 h, and little information is provided about how early mobilization decisions should be tailored to patients. We aimed to identify clinical and systems of care factors contributing to individual patient decision-making for early mobilization post-stroke.

Methods

Expert stroke clinicians were recruited to participate in an interactive one-on-one session that included an introductory semi-structured interview followed by an assisted data exploration session using an early mobilization data visualization tool.

Results

Thirty expert stroke clinicians with a median (interquartile range) 14 (10–25) years of experience were included. Stroke type and severity, and medical stability were identified as important clinical decision-making factors by the majority of expert stroke clinicians. Inadequate staffing and equipment were frequently indicated as barriers to early mobilization. The perceived characteristics of early mobilization responders were mild or moderate stroke severity, ischemic stroke, partial anterior circulation stroke, younger age, and one or fewer comorbidities. Perceived characteristics of early mobilization non-responders included severe stroke severity, hemorrhagic stroke, total anterior circulation stroke, older age, those with persistent vessel occlusion or high-grade stenosis, hemodynamic instability, multimorbidity and an altered state of consciousness. Some characteristics led to uncertainty amongst interviewees e.g., early mobilization decision-making were moderate stroke severity, older patients, and those with lacunar circulation infarcts.

Discussion

We gained unique, in-depth insights into patient and systems of care factors that contribute to individual patient decision-making related to early mobilization post-stroke. The identified areas would benefit from further empirical research to develop structured decision support for clinicians.
Poor treatment outcomes and associated factors among hospitalized patients with stroke at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Ayele Zerihun Abera , Molla Sisay , Ahmed Aliyi , Worku Teshager , Bezabih Addisu Seneshaw , Mamo Biniyam Tedla
Published: December 2023

Background

Stroke is a significant health problem in both industrialized and developing nations. It is the world's second-leading cause of death worldwide. Stroke incidence, prevalence, and death rates have grown internationally, with low- and middle-income nations suffering the greatest proportion of the burden. Stroke is a leading cause of long-term physical impairment, affecting a person's quality of life, societal engagement, independence, emotions, and productivity.

Objective

To determine the magnitude and factors associated with poor treatment outcomes in hospitalized adult patients with stroke.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2019 to June 2021 in stroke patients admitted to the Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. This study included 290 patient charts. Data were collected by reviewing the medical charts using a well-developed data abstraction form. Data were entered into Epi-Data version 3.2 and exported to SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were used to describe study variables. Additionally, bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with poor stroke treatment outcomes. All statistical tests were set at 5% of significant threshold.

Results

Among 290 enrolled patients, 172 (59.3%) had poor stroke treatment outcomes. The mean age of the patients was 54.7(SD: ±16.1) years, and more than half 182 (62.8%) of the participants were males. The overall average length of hospital stays for stroke patients was 8 ± 3.3 days. Age of 45–64 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.17, 95% CI [1.06, 4.41]), aspiration pneumonia (AOR: 2.13, 95% CI [1.06, 4.26]), systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mm Hg/dl (AOR: 2.35, 95% CI [1.24, 4.47]), Glasgow Coma Scale score of <8 (AOR: 7.26, 95% CI [3.82, 13.8]), and serum creatinine level of ≥1 mg/dl (AOR: 2.73, 95% CI [1.46, 5.10]) were significantly associated with poor treatment outcome in adult stroke patients.

Conclusion

Six out of ten stroke patients had poor treatment outcomes. Age between 45 and 65 years, uncontrolled hypertension, aspiration pneumonia, low Glasgow Coma Scale score at admission, and renal injury were identified as significantly associated with poor treatment outcomes in stroke patients.