bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency and Functional Consequences of Low Appendicular Lean Mass and Sarcopenic Obesity in Patients with Asthma Referred for Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Authors: Meys Roy , Machado Felipe V. C. , Spruit Martijn A. , Stoffels Anouk A. F. , van Hees Hieronymus W. H. , van den Borst Bram , Klijn Peter H. , Burtin Chris , Pitta Fabio , Franssen Frits M. E.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: One of the most prominent extrapulmonary manifestations in patients with chronic respiratory disease is changes in body weight and composition. However, the frequency and functional consequences of low appendicular lean mass (ALM) or sarcopenic obesity (SO) in patients with asthma are largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to assess the frequency and functional consequences of low appendicular lean mass index (ALMI) and SO in patients with asthma. Methods: A retrospectively analyzed cross-sectional study was conducted in 687 patients with asthma (60% female, 58 ± 13 years, FEV1 76 ± 25% pred) referred for comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). Body composition, pulmonary function, exercise capacity, quadriceps muscle function, and quality of life were assessed. Patients were classified as presenting low ALMI according to the 10th percentiles of age-sex-body mass index (BMI)-specific reference values and as having SO according to the diagnostic procedure proposed by the 2022 ESPEN/EASO consensus. In addition, clinical outcomes between patients with normal and low ALMI or with and without SO were compared. Results: The frequency of patients classified as low ALMI was 19%, whereas 45% of the patients were obese. Among the obese patients, 29% had SO. In patients with normal weight, those with low ALMI were younger and had worse pulmonary function, exercise capacity and quadriceps muscle function than those with normal ALMI (all p < 0.05). Overweight patients with low ALMI presented poorer pulmonary function and quadriceps muscle function (both strength and total work capacity). In obese class I patients, those with low ALMI showed lower quadriceps strength and maximal oxygen uptake acquired during cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Both male and female patients with SO showed lower quadriceps muscle function and reduced maximal exercise capacity compared to non-SO asthma patients. Conclusion: Approximately one in five asthma patients presented low ALM when age-sex-BMI-specific ALMI cutoffs were applied. Obesity is common among patients with asthma referred for PR. Among the obese patients, a significant proportion presented SO. Low ALM and SO were associated with worse functional outcomes.
Cognitive Activity Is Associated with Cognitive Function over Time in a Diverse Group of Older Adults, Independent of Baseline Biomarkers
Authors: Krueger Kristin R. , Desai Pankaja , Beck Todd , Wilson Robert S , Evans Denis , Rajan Kumar B
Published: July 2023

Background: More frequent engagement in cognitive activity is associated with better cognitive function in older adults, but the mechanism of action is not fully understood. Debate remains whether increased cognitive activity provides a meaningful benefit for cognitive health or if decreased cognitive activity represents a prodrome of cognitive impairment. Neurological biomarkers provide a novel way to examine this relationship in the context of cognitive aging. Methods: We examined the association of self-reported cognitive activity, cognitive function, and concentrations of three biomarkers in community-dwelling participants of a longitudinal, population-based study. Cognitive activity was measured at baseline by asking participants to rate the frequency of 7 activities: (1) viewing television, (2) listening to the radio, (3) visiting a museum, (4) playing games, such as cards, checkers, crosswords, or other puzzles or games, (5) reading books, (6) reading magazines, and (7) reading newspapers. Cognitive function was measured with a battery of four tests (Mini-Mental State Examination, Digit Symbol Test, and the immediate and delayed recall of the East Boston Test) averaged into a composite score. At baseline, we evaluated the concentration of total tau (tau), neurofilament light (NfL), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Results: The study sample comprised 1,168 older participants, primarily non-Hispanic Blacks (60%) and women (63%). At baseline, they were an average of 77 years old with 12.6 years of education. Mixed-effects models showed that cognitive activity was associated with better cognitive functioning at baseline and over time. These relationships remained after each biomarker was added to the model. Over an average of 6.4 years of follow-up, cognitive activity was associated with cognitive decline in the model with tau (estimate = 0.0123; p value = 0.03) and was mildly attenuated in the models with NfL (estimate = 0.0110; p value = 0.06) and GFAP (estimate = 0.0111; p value = 0.06). Biomarkers did not modify the association between cognitive activity and cognitive function over time. Conclusion: The benefits of cognitive activity on cognition appear to be independent of biomarkers: tau, NfL, and GFAP, measured at baseline. More frequent cognitive activity may benefit the cognitive health of older adults with a wide range of potential disease risk and presentations.
Is Hydroxyurea Treatment Changing the Life of Children with Sickle Cell Disease?
Authors: Al Sabbah Mohammed Ali , Radaideh Mahmoud , Saleh Shafeeka Mohammed , Al-Doory Sura Ahmed , Abdalqader Amal Mahmoud , Mir Fatima Farid , Mohammed Aya
Published: July 2023

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a prevalent hemoglobinopathy involving sickled hemoglobin that causes multiorgan disease due to chronic recurrent vaso-occlusion and hemolysis. Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) being present showed reduction in disease severity, owing to which hydroxyurea has gained significant recognition. The latter’s exact mechanism of action is yet unknown, but it has been demonstrated that the resulting rise in HbF raises hemoglobin levels and lessens the incidence of acute chest syndrome and vaso-occlusive crises. In the United Arab Emirates, our study is the first to assess the effects of hydroxyurea therapy in pediatric SCD patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study on 100 patients aged 2–13 years who were diagnosed with SCD, under regular outpatient follow-up with pediatric hematology clinic and receiving hydroxyurea therapy for at least 2 years. Basic hematologic parameters, frequency of SCD complications, and need for blood transfusions were studied. Results: Our analysis has shown a statistically significant (p < 0.05) correlation between hydroxyurea therapy and improved baseline hemoglobin and HbF levels; it decreased the incidence of painful crises and acute chest syndrome episodes; reduced the demand for blood transfusions; and recorded no side effects (pancytopenia or liver function disturbance). Conclusions: This study is the first of its kind in the UAE, and our findings support those of international data. The use of hydroxyurea therapy in SCD significantly improved hematologic and clinical parameters, thus markedly improving the patient’s quality of life. The side-effect profile is also limited, which further supports the fact that hydroxyurea is a relatively safe drug.
Renal Proximal Tubular Epithelial Cells: From Harvesting to Use in Studies
Authors: Petreski Tadej , Varda Luka , Gradišnik Lidija , Maver Uros , Bevc Sebastjan
Published: July 2023

The kidneys are the body’s main excretion organ with several additional functions, and the nephron represents their central structural unit. It is comprised of endothelial, mesangial, glomerular, and tubular epithelial cells, as well as podocytes. Treatment of acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease (CKD) is complex due to broad etiopathogenic mechanisms and limited regeneration potential as kidney cells finish their differentiation after 34 weeks of gestation. Despite the ever-increasing prevalence of CKD, very limited treatment modalities are available. The medical community should therefore strive to improve existing treatments and develop new ones. Furthermore, polypharmacy is present in most CKD patients, while current pharmacologic study designs lack effectiveness in predicting potential drug-drug interactions and the resulting clinically relevant complications. An opportunity for addressing these issues lies in developing in vitro cell models based on patient-derived renal cells. Currently, several protocols have been described for isolating desired kidney cells, of which the most isolated are the proximal tubular epithelial cells. These play a significant role in water homeostasis, acid-base control, reabsorption of compounds, and secretion of xenobiotics and endogenous metabolites. When developing a protocol for the isolation and culture of such cells, one must focus on several steps. These include harvesting cells from biopsy specimens or after nephrectomies, using different digestion enzymes and culture mediums to facilitate the selective growth of only the desired cells. The literature reports several existing models, from simple 2D in vitro cultures to more complex ones created with bioengineering methods, such as kidney-on-a-chip models. While their creation and use depend on the target research, one should consider factors such as equipment, cost, and, even more importantly, source tissue quality and availability.
Improved β2-Microglobulin and Phosphorous Removal with Expanded Hemodialysis and Online Hemodiafiltration versus High-Flux Hemodialysis: A Cross-Over Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Vega-Vega Olynka , Caballero-Islas Adrián E. , Del Toro-Cisneros Noemí , Hernandez-Ordoñez Sergio Óscar , Arvizu-Hernández Mauricio , Martínez-Rueda Armando , Camacho-Colin Diana , Gómez-Correa Leidi Laura , Correa-Rotter Ricardo
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Expanded hemodialysis (HDx) is expected to provide enhanced permeability of medium-sized molecules, selective solute retention, and better internal retrofiltration. The primary objective of this study was to compare the efficiency for removal of β2-microglobulin with 3 different extracorporeal therapies (ETs): high-flux hemodialysis (HF), online hemodiafiltration (OL-HDF), and HDx. The secondary objective was to evaluate the efficiency of removal of other uremic toxins, including urea, phosphate, CRP, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-⍺, indoxyl sulfate, and p-cresol. Methods: This single-center, randomized, and cross-over study was performed. Patients were randomized to determine the initial modality of treatment, each period lasted 4 weeks and between one modality and another, there was a washout period of 1 week. Reduction ratios (RRs) of different-size molecules and albumin were calculated for the different ET. Results: Twenty-two patients were included, β2-microglobulin RR was greater during both OL-HDF and HDx as compared to HF (RR 62% vs. 73% vs. 27%, respectively, p = <0.0001), and there was no significant difference between HDx and OL-HDF (p = 0.09). A decrease in serum phosphate levels was observed in the HDx and OL-HDF periods, contrary to an increase in HF (−0.79 mg/dL vs. −1.02 mg/dL vs. + 0.11 mg/dL, respectively, p = <0.0001). There was no difference in RRs of other molecules (BUN, CRP, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-⍺, indoxyl sulfate, and p-Cresol). There was no decrease in serum albumin in any ET. Conclusion: HDx provides enhanced removal of β2-microglobulin and phosphate as compared to HF, and similar efficacy as with OL-HDF. HDx should be considered an alternative to chronic convective therapies.
Comparison between Surgical Techniques Used for Revision of the Filter Bleb: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Zantut Fabio , P B Gracitelli Carolina , Teixeira Sergio H. , Paranhos Jr. Augusto
Published: July 2023

Introduction/Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare two surgical revision techniques in failed trabeculectomies after 6 months. Methods: Patients diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy in at least one eye with uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) after trabeculectomy performed at least 6 months before were enrolled in this prospective trial. All participants underwent a complete ophthalmological examination at baseline. Randomization was performed to one eye per patient to double-masked trabeculectomy revision or needling. Patients were examined on the first day, 7 days, 14 days, and then monthly until completing 1 year after surgical intervention. All follow-up visits included the following: patients reported ocular and systemic events, best-corrected visual acuity, IOP, slit-lamp examination, and optic disc evaluation for cup-to-disc ratio. Gonioscopy and stereoscopic optic disc photographs were taken at baseline and 12 months. After 1-year, the IOP and number of medications were compared between the groups. Absolute success criteria in the study were IOP <16 mm Hg, for 2 consecutive measurements without using a hypotensive medication. Results: Forty patients were included in this study. Among them, 38 completed 1-year follow-up (18 in revision group and 20 in needling group). The age ranged from 21 to 86 years, with a mean of 66.82 ± 13.44. At baseline, the average IOP was 21.64 ± 5.12 mm Hg (range from 14 to 38 mm Hg) in the entire group. All patients were using at least two classes of hypotensive eye drops, and 3 patients were using oral acetazolamide. The mean use of hypotensive eye drop medications was 3.11 ± 0.67 at the baseline for the entire group. In the present study, 58% of the patients presented complete success, 18% qualified success, and 24% failed in both groups. After 1-year treatment, both techniques were similar for IOP parameters and also for number of medications (p = 0.834 and p = 0.433, respectively). Regarding intra- or postoperative complications, one patient in each group needed a new surgical intervention, one in the needling group due to shallow anterior chamber and one in the revision group due to spontaneous Seidel sign, and one patient in the needling group underwent posterior revision due to fail. Conclusions: Both techniques were safe and effective for IOP control after 1 year of follow-up in patients who underwent to trabeculectomy more than 6 months before.
The Narrative of a Patient with Leptin Receptor Deficiency: Personalized Medicine for a Rare Genetic Obesity Disorder
Authors: Welling Mila S. , Kleinendorst Lotte , van Haelst Mieke M. , van den Akker Erica L.T.
Published: July 2023

Leptin receptor (LEPR) deficiency is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to regulate appetite and weight. For patients and their families, the disorder seriously disrupts daily life; however, little is published about this impact. We here report the experiences of a 10.5-year-old girl with leptin receptor deficiency and her family. The diagnosis of this rare genetic obesity had a deep impact on the life of the child and her family. It led to a better understanding of the cause of the impaired appetite regulation and early-onset obesity with subsequently less judgement by others and improved cooperation of their social network and school on maintaining a healthy lifestyle for this girl. A strict eating regimen and lifestyle measures resulted in the first year after diagnosis in a significantly decreased body mass index (BMI), followed by BMI stabilization, still categorized as obesity class three. However, the troublesome challenge of how to manage the disruptive behaviour due to hyperphagia remained. Eventually, due to treatment with targeted pharmacotherapy, i.e., melanocortin-4 receptor agonists, her BMI continued to decrease due to resolving hyperphagia. The daily routine of the family and the atmosphere at home positively changed as they were no longer dominated by the food-focused behaviour of the child and the adherence to the strict eating regimen. This case report demonstrates the importance and impact of a rare genetic obesity disorder diagnosis in a family. Additionally, it highlights the value of genetic testing in patients with a high suspicion of a genetic obesity disorder as it can eventually lead to personalized treatment, such as guidance by specialized healthcare professionals and educated caregivers or targeted pharmacotherapy.
Detection of Abdominal Lymph Node Metastasis from Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor by Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy: Comparison with Somatostatin Receptor Type 2 Immunostaining
Authors: Kitajima Kazuhiro , Shiomi Hideyuki , Kihara Takako , Hirono Seiko , Nakano Ryota , Okamoto Tomohiro , Yagi Chisako , Eda Hirotsugu , Matsuda Kosuke , Hatano Michiko , Yoshida Makoto , Kono Hiroshi , Hirota Seiichi , Minami Tetsuya , Yamakado Koichiro
Published: July 2023

We report a 58-year-old male with a histopathologically proven grade 2 (G2) pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasm and multiple abdominal node metastases by use of a laparoscopic pancreatic body and tail resection procedure, plus abdominal lymph node dissection. A primary pancreatic tail neuroendocrine tumor sized 20 × 25 mm was detected by contrast-enhanced computed tomography, somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS), and fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) examinations and pathologically diagnosed as a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET, G2) based on positive immunostaining for somatostatin receptor (SSTR) type 2. Of three metastatic histopathological lymph nodes, two measured 18 × 21 and 10 × 12 mm, respectively, with whole strong SSTR immunostaining showing moderate uptake in SRS findings, whereas the other node, sized 8 × 10 mm, had strong SSTR immunostaining only in a small 6 × 6-mm-sized portion and showed no uptake in SRS findings, likely because of the limited spatial resolution of scintigraphy. On the other hand, only the largest node (18 × 21 mm) was visualized by FDG-PET. SRS may be useful for metastatic lymph node diagnosis based on SSTR immunostaining, though a disadvantage is the spatial resolution limitation.
Inner Visions: Art Practice and Sufi Devotion in Morocco at the Turn of the Fourteenth/Twentieth Century
Authors: Abudaya Mounia Chekhab
Published: July 2023

This article examines a large calligraphic panel from Morocco preserved in the Harvard Art Museums (2016.206). The artwork features stylized representations of Mecca and Medina alongside Prophet Muhammad’s sandals and a selection of religious texts praising the prophet. This composition is characteristic of Islamic devotional imagery, highlighting artistic transfer from Moroccan illustrated copies of the Dalāʾil al-Khayrāt by the ninth/fifteenth-century Sufi mystic al-Ǧazūlī. This article aims to contextualize the production of this specific panel artwork within the Wazzāniyya Sufi Brotherhood in Morocco. It also presents how the expression of religious devotion through symbolic images reflects a mediation between the believer and Islamic holy sites and relics of the prophet.
Resolving taxonomic issues of cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) including new combinations, new synonymies, and revised status, with updates on the diversity of the Brazilian cicada fauna and new records for four South American countries
Authors: SANBORN ALLEN F.
Published: July 2023

The taxonomic position and status of historically confused cicada taxa is determined. Species are reassigned based on analysis of type specimens and the application of currently accepted higher taxonomy. Diceroprocta grossa (Fabricius, 1775) is determined to be Megatibicen grossa (Fabricius, 1775) n. comb. with Cicada auletes Germar, 1834 n. syn., Fidicina literata Walker, 1850 n. syn., and Cicada sonora Walker, 1850 n. syn. becoming junior synonyms. Abroma egae (Distant, 1892) is determined to be Brevialavenosa egae (Distant, 1892) n. comb., Abroma temperata (Walker, 1858) is reassigned to become Brevialavenosa temperata (Walker, 1858) n. comb., and Abroma apicifera (Walker, 1850) is determined to be Brevialavenosa apicifera (Walker, 1850) n. comb. Cicada sahlbergi Stål, 1854 is reassigned to become Herrera sahlbergi (Stål, 1854) n. comb. Zammara eximia Erichson, 1848 is reassigned to become Zammaralna eximia (Erichson, 1848) n. comb. Zammara strepens Amyot & Audinet-Serville, 1843 is reassigned to become Orellana strepens (Amyot & Audinet-Serville, 1843) n. comb. Orellana brunneipennis Goding, 1925 is reassigned to become Zammara brunneipennis (Goding, 1925) n. comb. and Orellana pulla Goding, 1925 is reassigned to become Zammara pulla (Goding, 1925) n. comb. Zammara brunneipennis (Goding, 1925) n. comb., n. syn., Zammara pulla (Goding, 1925) n. comb., n. syn., and Zammara erna Schmidt, 1919 n. syn. are made junior synonyms of Zammara intricata Walker, 1850. Orellana pollyae Sanborn, 2011a n. syn. is made a junior synonym of Orellana strepens (Amyot & Audinet-Serville, 1843) n. comb., and Zammara medialinea Sanborn, 2004 n. syn. is made a junior synonym of Zammara luculenta Distant, 1883. Dorisiana brasilianensis Boulard, 2017 n. syn. is determined to be a junior synonym of Dorisiana noriegai Sanborn & Heath, 2014. Two taxa, Carineta viridicollis var. a Stål, 1862 n. syn. and Cicada proponens var. b Walker, 1858c n. syn. are shown to be unavailable as well as junior synonyms of Carineta viridicollis (Germar, 1830) and Parnisa proponens (Walker, 1858c), respectively. Fidicina aldegondae Kulgatz, 1902 (in Kulgatz & Melichar, 1902) rev. stat. is removed from synonymy and reassigned to become Guyalna aldegondae (Kulgatz, 1902 in Kulgatz & Melichar, 1902) rev. stat., n. comb. Cicada costa Dohrn, 1859 is shown to be a misspelling of Cicada casta Stål, 1854 and does not represent a nomen nudum. The alpha diversity of the known Brazilian cicada fauna is now 181 species with new records of Proarna uruguayensis Berg, 1882 and Herrera dentata Sanborn, 2020 and the removal of Diceroprocta grossa (Fabricius, 1775) and Odopoea degiacomii Distant, 1912 from the fauna. New records of Hemisciera maculipennis (de Laporte, 1832) for Bolivia, Guyalna cuta (Walker, 1850) for Paraguay, and Pachypsaltria phaedima Torres, 1960 for Peru are provided.
A new species of Neurothaumasia Le Marchand (Lepidoptera, Tineidae) from Crete, Greece
Authors: HUEMER PETER , AARVIK LEIF , BERGGREN KAI
Published: July 2023

A new species of fungus moths (Tineidae), Neurothaumasia cretica sp. nov., is described from specimens collected on Crete isl. (Greece). It differs from congeneric taxa by the characteristic black and white forewing pattern which is only shared with N. fasciata Petersen, 1959 from the Middle East, and the widespread western Palaearctic N. ankerella (Mann, 1867). However, the new species differs strongly from the former by several characters of male and female genitalia, and from the latter species particularly from external appearance and by the highly divergent DNA barcode (cytochrome c-oxidase subunit 1) (unknown for N. fasciata). Adult and genitalia of N. cretica sp. nov. and the only similar European species N. ankerella are shown for comparison. Finally, a complete checklist of the genus is added.
Reducing Family Violence Through Child Welfare Intervention: A Propensity Score-Matched Study of Fathers for Change
Authors: Beebe Rebecca , Fish Meghan C. , Grasso Damion , Bernstein Bruce , DiVietro Susan , Stover Carla Smith
Published: July 2023

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is prevalent, costly, and detrimental to children’s health and development. It often co-occurs with child abuse and neglect. Most children referred to child protective services (CPS) have witnessed IPV and are at increased risk for subsequent exposure, as well as repeat maltreatment. For CPS referred children, there is often a missed opportunity to interrupt family violence and prevent future occurrences. Fathers for Change (F4C) is a family level intervention designed to reduce IPV by improving emotion regulation and reflective functioning in fathers. To date, no study has examined whether F4C is associated with reduced recidivism in families referred to CPS. Using propensity score matching (PSM) to simulate an experimental design, the current study tests the hypothesis that families with fathers who completed F4C will have significantly lower rates of new CPS reports over a 12-month period compared to a PSM sample of families of fathers not referred to F4C. Data were extracted from a state CPS electronic case records system on all accepted child maltreatment reports received between January 1, 2015, and April 30, 2020. PSM was successful in balancing potential confounders (e.g., race, number of prior maltreatment reports, risk level, date of report), resulting in a comparison group approximate to one that could be achieved via a randomized control trial. Logistic regression analyses of 1:1 PSM pairs revealed that control fathers were 2.4 times more likely to have a repeat maltreatment report during the 12-month follow-up period than F4C fathers. These findings suggest that F4C may provide an effective approach for reducing risk of repeat maltreatment among CPS referred children with identified IPV exposure.
Indicators of the dimensions of trust (and mistrust) in early primary care practice: a qualitative study
Authors: Shaughnessy Allen F. , Vicini, SJ Andrea , Zgurzynski Mary , O’Reilly-Jacob Monica , Duggan Ashley P.
Published: July 2023

Background

Trust occurs when persons feel they can be vulnerable to others because of the sincerity, benevolence, truthfulness and sometimes the competence they perceive. This project examines the various types of trust expressed in written reflections of developing healthcare clinicians. Our goal is to understand the roles trust plays in residents’ self-examination and to offer insight from relationship science to inform the teaching and clinical work for better trust in healthcare.

Methods

We analyzed 767 reflective writings of 33 residents submitted anonymously, to identify explicit or implicit indicators attention to trust or relationship development. Two authors independently coded the entries based on inductively identified dimensions. Three authors developed a final coding structure that was checked against the entries. These codes were sorted into final dimensions.

Results

We identified 114 written reflections that contained one or more indicators of trust. These codes were compiled into five code categories: Trust of self/trust as the basis for confidence in decision making; Trust of others in the medical community; Trust of the patient and its effect on clinician; Assessment of the trust of them exhibited by the patient; and Assessment of the effect of the patient’s trust on the patient’s behavior.

Discussion

Broadly, trust is both relationship-centered and institutionally situated. Trust is a process, built on reciprocity. There is tacit acknowledgement of the interplay among what the residents do is good for the patient, good for themselves, and good for the medical institution. An exclusive focus on moments in which trust is experienced or missed, as well as only on selected types of trust, misses this complexity.

Conclusion

A greater awareness of how trust is present or absent could lead to a greater understanding and healthcare education for beneficial effects on clinicians’ performance, personal and professional satisfaction, and improved quality in patients’ interactions.
Plasmodium falciparum drug resistance-associated mutations in isolates from children living in endemic areas of Burkina Faso
Authors: Tarama Casimire Wendlamita , Soré Harouna , Siribié Mafama , Débé Siaka , Kinda Réné , Ganou Adama , Nonkani Wendyam Gérard , Tiendrebeogo Farida , Bantango Winnie , Yira Kassoum , Sagnon Aladari , Ilboudo Sonia , Hien Esther Yéri , Guelbéogo Moussa Wandaogo , Sagnon NFale , Traoré Yves , Ménard Didier , Gansané Adama
Published: July 2023

Background

Artemisinin-based combinations therapy (ACT) is the current frontline curative therapy for uncomplicated malaria in Burkina Faso. Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is used for the preventive treatment of pregnant women (IPTp), while SP plus amodiaquine (SP-AQ) is recommended for children under five in seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC). This study aimed to assess the proportions of mutations in the P. falciparum multidrug-resistance 1 (Pfmdr1), P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (Pfcrt), P. falciparum dihydrofolate reductase (pfdhfr), and P. falciparum dihydropteroate synthase (pfdhps), genes from isolates collected during household surveys in Burkina Faso.

Methods

Dried blood spots from Plasmodium falciparum-positive cases at three sites (Orodara, Gaoua, and Banfora) collected during the peak of transmission were analysed for mutations in Pfcrt (codons 72–76, 93, 97, 145, 218, 343, 350 and 353), Pfmdr-1 (codons 86, 184, 1034, 1042 and 1246) dhfr (codons 51, 59, 108, 164) and dhps (at codons 431, 436, 437, 540, 581, 613) genes using deep sequencing of multiplexed Polymerase chaine reaction (PCR) amplicons.

Results

Of the 377 samples analysed, 346 (91.7%), 369 (97.9%), 368 (97.6%), and 374 (99.2%) were successfully sequenced for Pfcrt, Pfmdr-1, dhfr, and dhps, respectively. Most of the samples had a Pfcrt wild-type allele (89.3%). The 76T mutation was below 10%. The most frequent Pfmdr-1 mutation was detected at codon 184 (Y > F, 30.9%). The single mutant genotype (NFSND) predominated (66.7%), followed by the wild-type genotype (NYSND, 30.4%). The highest dhfr mutations were observed at codon 59R (69.8%), followed by codons 51I (66.6%) and 108 N (14.7%). The double mutant genotype (ACIRSI) predominated (52.4%). For mutation in the dhps gene, the highest frequency was observed at codon 437 K (89.3%), followed by codons 436 A (61.2%), and 613 S (14.4%). The double mutant genotype (IAKKAA) and the single mutant genotype (ISKKAA) were predominant (37.7% and 37.2%, respectively). The most frequent dhfr/dhps haplotypes were the triple mutant ACIRSI/IAKKAA (23%), the wild-type ACNCSI/ISKKAA (19%) and the double mutant ACIRSI/ISKKAA (14%). A septuple mutant ACIRNI/VAKKGA was observed in 2 isolates from Gaoua (0.5%).

Conclusion

The efficacy of ACT partner drugs and drugs used in IPTp and SMC does not appear to be affected by the low proportion of highly resistant mutants observed in this study. Continued monitoring, including molecular surveillance, is critical for decision-making on effective treatment policy in Burkina Faso.
Diagnostic value of D-dimer for lower extremity deep venous thrombosis caused by rib fracture: a retrospective study
Authors: Feng Lei , Xie Zexin , Zhou Xuetao , Hou Chunjuan , Liang Zheng , Lu Huiqing , Liu Lili , Zhang Dongsheng
Published: July 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the role of D-dimer in the diagnosis of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in patients with rib fractures.

Method

Retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 499 patients with rib fractures who were admitted to the Third Hospital of Shijiazhuang between October 2020 and September 2021. These patients were divided into the DVT and the non-DVT groups. D-dimer levels were compared between the two groups at 24, 48, and 72 h after the injury. Receiver operating characteristic curves were utilized to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of dynamically monitoring changes in D-dimer for DVT.

Results

The D-dimer levels in the DVT group were significantly higher than those in the non-DVT group at 24, 48, and 72 h after the injury. The area under the curve values for predicting DVT based on D-dimer level at 24, 48, and 72 h after injury in patients with rib fractures were 0.788, 0.605, and 0.568, respectively.

Conclusion

Detecting D-dimer levels 24 h after the injury can enhance diagnostic efficacy and sensitivity for DVT, thereby reducing the rate of missed diagnoses, which is of great clinical value.
Addressing Financial Exclusion through Financial Literacy training programs: a Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Choudhary Heena , Jain Himanshi
Published: July 2023

The development of financial literacy (FL) is significantly influenced by financial literacy training programs (FLTPs), which aid in creating an ecosystem that is more inclusive and participative. This study reviewed 22 studies on FLTPs for marginalised women in developed and developing countries. It seeks to comprehend (a) the characteristics of FLTPs and (b) the impact of FLTPs on women’s financial behaviour. The findings highlight that existing research has demonstrated an overall improvement in post-training financial behaviour, particularly in bank ownership, savings, and expenditure. This indicates that FL programs and interventions can positively impact women’s financial inclusion and empowerment. However, the study also acknowledges the need for further research to delve into women’s specific challenges in various regions and contexts. Understanding these unique challenges is crucial for developing targeted strategies that address women’s particular needs and circumstances in different situations. This study provides valuable insights and guidance to various stakeholders – practitioners, academics, and policymakers – enabling them to make informed decisions and implement impactful measures to promote FL and inclusion among women.
Experience and measurement of fatigue in adults with Crohn’s disease: results from qualitative interviews and a longitudinal 2-week daily diary pilot study
Authors: Regueiro Miguel , Delbecque Laure , Hunter Theresa , Stassek Larissa , Harding Gale , Lewis James
Published: July 2023

Background

Fatigue has a detrimental impact on health-related quality of life and functioning in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD). We aimed to confirm the relevance and importance of fatigue, establish the content validity of the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Fatigue (FACIT-F), qualitatively explore meaningful change in fatigue experience, and assess the measurement properties of the FACIT-F in patients with moderate-to-severe CD.

Methods

This was a mixed-methods observational study consisting of a cross-sectional qualitative interview (Part A) and a longitudinal 2-week daily diary pilot study (Part B) in participants aged ≥ 18 years with a clinical diagnosis of moderate-to-severe CD. Part A included open-ended questions related to the participant’s overall experiences with CD, fatigue, and impact on daily activities and a cognitive debriefing of several patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including the FACIT-F. Part B consisted of participants completing an electronic daily diary that included the FACIT-F and other PROs for 14 days. Item performance, test–retest reliability, and construct validity were assessed at baseline (Day 1), Day 7, and Day 14.

Results

Thirty-five participants (mean age 45.1 years; 65.7% female) completed an interview (Part A). Ninety-one percent of the interview participants reported fatigue as a symptom attributed to CD. Participants indicated that fatigue had a major impact on their daily activities (e.g., recreation/ hobbies, work/school, yard work and housework), social activities, and emotional health. The FACIT-F was well understood by the interview participants.

Seventy-six participants (mean age 41.9 years; 66% female) completed at least the Day 1 diary entry (Part B). Potential floor and ceiling effects were observed for several FACIT-F items, but test–retest reliability and construct validity were all strong and within the ranges hypothesized a priori.

Conclusions

The interviews indicate that fatigue is a frequent and bothersome symptom experienced by most patients with moderate-to-severe CD and support the content validity of the FACIT-F in this population. Daily diary study results indicate that the FACIT-F scale demonstrates adequate reliability and validity among patients with CD. These study findings suggest that the FACIT-F would be a reliable, valid, and useful measure of fatigue in patients with moderate-to-severe CD.
A simple high-performance liquid chromatographic assay for concurrent quantification of lumefantrine and efavirenz in human plasma from malaria–HIV co-infected individuals
Authors: Adegbola Adebanjo J. , Ogboye Ruth M. , Soyinka Julius O. , Bolaji Oluseye O.
Published: July 2023

Background

As per current treatment guidelines, artemether-lumefantrine and efavirenz-based antiretroviral therapy are recommended drugs for falciparum malaria and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, respectively. A liquid chromatography-ultraviolet detection method for simultaneous quantification of lumefantrine and efavirenz was developed and validated for efficacy and pharmacokinetic clinical studies. Lumefantrine and efavirenz were separated using a 100 × 4.6 mm × 3 µm Fortis C18 chromatographic column, and a multistep gradient mobile phase. Calibration curves were obtained with a series of standard solutions containing known concentrations of the chemical reference of both analytes prepared concomitantly in drug-free plasma. The assay was validated within the calibration ranges of 78.125–20,000 ng/mL for lumefantrine and 187.15–24,000 ng/mL for efavirenz. Stability assessment was carried out with or without heating the quality control sample to 58 °C for 45 min. The method was employed to measure the plasma concentrations of lumefantrine and efavirenz in a study conducted among malaria-HIV co-infected patients.

Result

Lumefantrine and efavirenz were well separated from each other and from the biological matrix. The method demonstrated a good recovery of 72.64% for lumefantrine and 117.17% for efavirenz. The intra- and inter-day accuracy presented as 95.36–105.14% for lumefantrine and 104.11–115% for efavirenz and precision ranged from 1.15 to 6.45% for lumefantrine and 0.43 to 13.12 for efavirenz, were within ± 15% at the three quality control levels. The analytes from both quality control lots and samples collected from HIV-malaria co-infected individuals were found to be stable post-deactivation of infectious virus by heating to 58 °C for 45 min.

Conclusion

The assay is accurate, precise and shown to simultaneously measure the lumefantrine and EFV in human plasma.
Ensemble of deep learning and machine learning approach for classification of handwritten Hindi numerals
Authors: Rajpal Danveer , Garg Akhil Ranjan
Published: July 2023

Given the vast range of factors, including shape, size, skew, and orientation of handwritten numerals, their machine-based recognition is a difficult challenge for researchers in the pattern recognition field. Due to the abundance of curves and resembling shapes of the symbols, the recognition of Devnagari numerals can leverage the difficulty level of the recognition. The suggested low-classification-cost method for obtaining fine features from given numeral images used benchmark deep learning models, VGG-16Net, VGG-19Net, ResNet-50, and Inception-v3, to address these issues. Principal component analysis, a powerful dimensionality reduction method, was used to efficiently reduce the number of dimensions in the information that pre-trained deep convolutional neural network models provided. The method for improving recognition accuracy by fusing features was provided in the scheme. A machine learning algorithm: support vector machine was employed for the recognition task due to its capacity to distinguish between patterns belonging to distinct classes. The system was able to obtain a recognition accuracy of 99.72% and was effective in demonstrating the importance of ensemble machine learning and deep learning approaches.
Gut microbiota as a target in the bone health of livestock and poultry: roles of short-chain fatty acids
Authors: Huang Shu-Cheng , He Yan-Feng , Chen Pan , Liu Kai-Li , Shaukat Aftab
Published: July 2023

The regulation and maintenance of bone metabolic homeostasis are crucial for animal skeletal health. It has been established that structural alterations in the gut microbiota and ecological dysbiosis are closely associated with bone metabolic homeostasis. The gut microbiota and its metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), affect almost all organs, including the bone. In this process, SCFAs positively affect bone healing by acting directly on cells involved in bone repair after or by shaping appropriate anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory responses. Additionally, SCFAs have the potential to maintain bone health in livestock and poultry because of their various biological functions in regulating bone metabolism, including immune function, calcium absorption, osteogenesis and osteolysis. This review primarily focuses on the role of SCFAs in the regulation of bone metabolism by gut microbiota and provides insight into studies related to bone health in livestock and poultry.
Association of Low-Normal Free T4 Levels With Future Major Depression Development
Authors: Odawara Sara , Shimbo Takuro , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Kobayashi Daiki
Published: July 2023

Context

Hyperthyroidism and overt and subclinical hypothyroidism are associated with major depression; however, the association of major depression across the spectrum of thyroid function within the normal range is unknown.

Objective

We investigated whether higher or lower levels of free thyroxine (T4) and thyrotropin (TSH) within the normal range are associated with major depression.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 66 960 participants with normal thyroid function who visited for health checkups (St. Luke's International Hospital, 2005-2018). The primary outcome was the development of major depression during the follow-up period. Participants were divided into 3 equal groups based on baseline free T4 or TSH values (low-, middle-, or high-normal), and the incidence of major depression was compared using the Cox proportional hazard model after adjusting for potential covariates.

Results

During the median follow-up of 1883 days, 1363 (2.0%) patients developed major depression. The low-normal free T4 group had a significantly higher risk of major depression (adjusted HR 1.15; 95% CI, 1.01-1.31), but not the high-normal free T4 group or TSH groups. The association between low-normal free T4 and the development of major depression was maintained, rather more obvious, upon exclusion of participants whose thyroid hormone levels became abnormal during follow-up compared with data from all participants (adjusted HR 1.24; 95% CI, 1.07-1.43).

Conclusion

In this cohort, low-normal free T4 was associated with an increased risk of future major depression, even if subsequent hormone levels were maintained within the normal range. The magnitude of the impact of low-normal free T4 was relatively mild.
The SquAd derivation: A Square Additive approach to the turbulent Prandtl number
Authors: Moreau Vincent
Published: July 2023

Liquid metals have been chosen as primary coolant of innovative nuclear systems under current development. They present a very high thermal conductivity and hence a very low molecular Prandtl number. This feature challenges the modeling of turbulent thermal flows applying the Reynolds analogy. This paper addresses this challenge. A new formula for the turbulent Prandtl number is derived in terms of local variables available from two-equations turbulence models. The derivation is a direct consequence of the expected square additivity of the molecular and flow parameters defining the effective viscosity and the effective conductivity. The formula does not degenerate and leads to a Kays like formulation if approximated. While constrained by the quality of the turbulent viscosity modeling, it has the potential to improve the numerical simulation of turbulent thermal flows.
Prospects of digital scientific publishing on blockchain: The concept of DAP
Authors: Skala Karolj , Šojat Zorislav , Maričević Josip , Davidović Davor , Bojović Viktor , Zubčić Tomislav , Kolarek Branimir , Pažin Dario , Tomić Draško , Slapnik Tadej , Pecimotika Mario
Published: July 2023

Background: Traditional publishing models, open access and major publishers, cannot adequately address the key challenges of academic publishing today: Speed of peer review, recognition of work and incentive mechanisms, transparency and thrust of the system.

Methods: To address these challenges, the authors propose Decentralised Academic Publishing (DAP), which is based on the novel HashNET DLT platform. The DAP introduces several innovative components: tracking the activities of all participants in the peer review process using blockchain and smart contracts, the introduction of the Scholarly Wallet for holding reputation (non-fungible) and reward (fungible) tokens, the use of the Scholarly Wallet as the main interface to the DAP platform, the Virtual Editor that enables automatic discovery of the research area and invitation of reviewers, and finally the global database of evaluated reviewers, ranked by the quality of their previous work.

Results: The DAP platform is in the development phase, with the design and functionalities of all modules defined. An exception is the central component of DAP, the Scholarly Wallet module, whose first prototype has already been created, tested and published. The implementation of DAP is planned for the next phase of the HorizonEurope TruBlo project and other research initiatives. The DAP platform will be connected to the publishing ecosystem: 1) as a backend system (distributed blockchain database) for existing publishing platforms and 2) as a standalone publishing platform with its own API interface.

Conclusions: The authors believe that DAP has the potential to significantly improve academic peer review and knowledge dissemination. It is expected that the use of blockchain technology, the fast HashNET consensus platform and tokens for reward (fungible) and reputation/ranking (non-fungible) will lead to a more efficient and transparent way of rewarding all participants in the peer review process and ultimately advance scientific research.
Theoretical optimization of a frequency-domain- based color polarization interference sensor via coupling with a Gaussian beam
Authors: Wang Guiqiang , Xie Pengpeng , Xu Xiaoxue
Published: July 2023

In this paper, a Gaussian-beam-coupled color polarization interference (CCPI) sensor with an adjustable digital Gaussian filter was proposed theoretically in the frequency domain. The coupling principle of a traditional color polarization interference (CPI) sensor and a Gaussian beam was investigated, and sensitivity optimization was then implemented. The formation of a doublet is related to the shape of a CPI curve, expected wavelength, and FWHM of the Gaussian beam. Based on the calculated results, the angle between the two polarizers and the obliquity of the wave plate are the two most significant adjusting parameters. The sensitivity of a CCPI sensor is approximately twofold higher than that of a traditional CPI sensor. The sensing range is also related to the FWHM of the Gaussian beam and a larger FWHM usually means a wider sensing range. We also found that the sensitivity would reach a maximum when the incident angle is near the total internal reflection angle. Besides, a longer incident wavelength usually corresponds to a higher sensitivity and the sensitivity could reach as high as 9270 nm/refractive index unit when the resonance wavelength is 977.40 nm.
Particle swarm optimizer for the surface plasmon resonance effect on metal gratings
Authors: de Araujo Felipe José Lucena , de Melo Ernande Ferreira , Fontana Eduardo
Published: July 2023

In this work, the spectral dependence of optimum parameters of the
surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect on metallized sinusoidal
diffraction gratings, under normal incidence, was determined using the
particle swarm optimization method. The method was chosen due to its
simplicity and effectiveness in providing reliable results, relative
to direct search or gradient methods. The Rayleigh’s hypothesis, which
restricts the analysis to the case of shallow gratings, is used to
model the diffracted fields across the interface between the sensing
medium and metal. A penalty function was applied to avoid the
occurrence of singularities and violation of the validity of the
Rayleigh hypothesis. Using this procedure, the optimum values of
grating periodicity and amplitude that maximized the sensitivity
function for gold, silver, copper, and aluminum—metals that yield high
quality factor SPR effects—were determined in a wavelength range
between 500 and 1600 nm, for both gaseous and aqueous
sensing media.