bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiographic Evaluation of Ileal Pouch Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shen Bo , Bruining David H. , Ma Hong
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Radiographic imaging of abdomen and pelvis plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of ileal pouch disorders with modalities including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, contrasted pouchography, and defecography.

OBJECTIVES:

A systematic review of the literature was performed and applications of cross-sectional imaging, pouchography, defecography, and ultrasonography are described.

DATA SOURCES:

PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane database.

STUDY SELECTION:

Relevant articles on endoscopy in ileal pouches published between Jan 2003 and June 2023 in English were included based on PRISMA guidelines.

INTERVENTION:

Main abdominal and pelvic imaging modalities and their applications in the diagnosis of ileal pouch disorders were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Accuracy in characterization of the ileal pouch disorders.

RESULTS:

Computed tomography is the test of the choice for the evaluation of acute anastomotic leaks, perforation, and abscess(es). Magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis is suitable for the evaluation of chronic anastomotic leaks and their associated fistulas and sinus tracts, as well as for the penetrating phenotype of Crohn’s disease of the pouch. Computed tomography enterography and magnetic resonance enterography are useful in the assessment of intraluminal, intramural, and extraluminal disease processes of the pouch and prepouch ileum. Water-soluble contrast pouchography is particularly useful for the evaluation of acute or chronic anastomotic leaks and outlines the shape and configuration of the pouch. Defecography is the key modality to evaluate structural and functional pouch inlet and outlet obstructions. Ultrasonography can be performed to assess the pouch in experienced IBD centers.

LIMITATIONS:

This is a qualitative, not quantitative review of mainly case series and case reports.

CONCLUSIONS:

Abdominopelvic imaging along with clinical and endoscopic evaluation is imperative for the accurate assessment of structural, inflammatory, functional, and neoplastic disorders. See video from symposium.
FROM OUTER RETINAL NEOVACULARIZATION TO EXUDATIVE SUBRETINAL NEOVASCULARIZATION IN MACULAR TELANGIECTASIA TYPE 2
Authors: Krivosic Valérie , Zureik Abir , Mph  , Tadayoni Ramin , Gaudric Alain
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

To describe the progression from outer retinal neovascularization (ORNV) to exudative subretinal new vessels (SRNV) in idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel2)

Patients and Methods:

A total of 135 patients (270 eyes) imaged with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) were included.

Main Outcome Measures:

Ellipsoid zone (EZ) loss, outer retinal hyperreflectivity (ORHR), ORNV, and SRNV. ORNV was defined as a flow signal passing through the outer plexiform layer, with or without vertical linear ORHR on the OCT B-scan. SRNV were defined as an abnormal capillary network with a peripheral anastomotic arcade seen on en face OCTA, and a convex hyperreflectivity at the retinal pigment epithelium.

Results:

SRNV were observed in 38/270 eyes (14%). SRNV were at a fibrotic stage in 24/38 eyes, at an exudative stage in 6/38 eyes, and a progression from ORNV to SRNV was documented in 8/38 eyes. All cases showed an EZ loss. In 7 eyes (2.5%), SRNV were also associated with subepithelial neovascularization. No retinochoroidal anastomosis was detected. The visual acuity dropped when SRNV were present.

Conclusion:

In this case series, SRNV were found in 14% of eyes. In all cases, they were associated with an EZ loss and with ORHR. A progression from ORNV to SRNV was observed.
Comparison of the Effects of Eight Different Topical Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs on Reducing Intravitreal Injection-induced Pain.
Authors: Sakallioğlu Ahmet Kürşad , Kaya Sultan , Garip Rüveyde , Güçlü Hande
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

To compare topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) efficacy on intravitreal injection (IVI)-induced pain reduction, and determine the most efficient topical NSAID.

Methods:

This randomized controlled study included 662 eyes of 662 patients. Based on the types of NSAID administered before IVI, eight subgroups were formed. In the control group, a sterile saline solution was applied instead of NSAIDs. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess pain scores after IVI. The VAS scores were noted immediately and 6 hours following injection (6thhour).

Results:

Nepafenac 0.3%, 0.1%, and bromfenac had the lowest scores, immediately after and after 6 hours, with no significant differences. Diclofenac and ketorolac had higher VAS scores than the first trio but lower scores than the control group. Flurbiprofen, pranoprofen, and indomethacin did not significantly affect immediate pain; however, at the 6thhour, the VAS scores were significantly reduced.

Conclusion:

Nepafenac 0.3%, 0.1%, and bromfenac were the most effective NSAIDs for pain reduction. Although some NSAIDs did not have a significant effect on immediate pain, they all provided significant benefit at the 6thhour.
Multiple Choroidal Neovascularizations in Choroidal Osteoma Treated with Anti-VEGF Injections: A 6-Year Follow-Up Case Report
Authors: Xuan Yi , Wang Min
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

To report a case of multiple choroidal neovascularizations (CNVs) secondary to choroidal osteoma injected with a total of 13 anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs over a long-term follow up of 6-year period.

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

A 29-year-old female presented with a peripapillary choroidal osteoma in her left eye with the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/25. After 2 years of follow-up, two foci of CNV (one was at the infra-nasal of the optic disc, and the other was near the sub-temporal vascular arch), and massive subretinal hemorrhage developed overlying the osteoma, causing decreased BCVA of 20/33. The patient was treated with four consecutive intravitreal injections of conbercept and the two CNVs regressed with BCVA recovered to 20/25. While 17 months later, the third CNV lesion locating at the fovea appeared and nine more injections of aflibercept were given during which repeated recurrence of it occurred. At last follow-up, 6 years from baseline, all the three CNV foci were controlled, with final BCVA of 20/33.

Conclusions:

Multiple CNVs may appear simultaneously at different locations in one osteoma and prompt treatment with intravitreal anti-VEGF may be a good option to control the progression and recurrence of these CNVs. Long-term follow-up and multimodal imaging are vital in the management of CO-associated CNV.
Does pain tolerance mediate the effect of physical activity on chronic pain in the general population? The Tromsø Study
Authors: Årnes Anders Pedersen , Fjeld Mats Kirkeby , Stigum Hein , Nielsen Christopher Sivert , Stubhaug Audun , Johansen Aslak , Hopstock Laila Arnesdatter , Morseth Bente , Wilsgaard Tom , Steingrímsdóttir Ólöf Anna
Published: March 2024

Knowledge is needed regarding mechanisms acting between physical activity (PA) and chronic pain. We investigated whether cold pain tolerance mediates an effect of leisure-time physical activity on the risk of chronic pain 7 to 8 years later using consecutive surveys of the population-based Tromsø Study. We included participants with information on baseline leisure-time PA (LTPA) and the level of cold pressor–assessed cold pain tolerance, who reported chronic pain status at follow-up as any of the following: chronic pain for ≥3 months, widespread chronic pain, moderate-to-severe chronic pain, or widespread moderate-to-severe chronic pain. We included 6834 participants (52% women; mean age, 55 years) in counterfactual mediation analyses. Prevalence decreased with severity, for example, 60% for chronic pain vs 5% for widespread moderate-to-severe chronic pain. People with one level higher LTPA rating (light to moderate or moderate to vigorous) at baseline had lower relative risk (RR) of 4 chronic pain states 7 to 8 years later. Total RR effect of a 1-level LTPA increase was 0.95 (0.91-1.00), that is, −5% decreased risk. Total effect RR for widespread chronic pain was 0.84 (0.73-0.97). Indirect effect for moderate-to-severe chronic pain was statistically significant at RR 0.993 (0.988-0.999); total effect RR was 0.91 (0.83-0.98). Statistically significantly mediated RR for widespread moderate-to-severe chronic pain was 0.988 (0.977-0.999); total effect RR was 0.77 (0.64-0.94). This shows small mediation of the effect of LTPA through pain tolerance on 2 moderate-to-severe chronic pain types. This suggests pain tolerance to be one possible mechanism through which PA modifies the risk of moderate-to-severe chronic pain types with and without widespread pain.
When Can Children Perform Valsalva and Toynbee Maneuvers? An Exploratory Study
Authors: Alsayegh Raihanah , Silver Jennifer , Agnihotram Raman , Gurberg Joshua
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Barochallenge-induced Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is difficult to diagnose because the examination is often normal during clinical assessment. In adults, functional tympanometry testing, performed by asking the patient to Valsalva and Toynbee while measuring the pressure shift, can aid in the diagnosis of ETD. However, standardized values do not exist in children. We aim to determine the age at which children can perform these maneuvers and the normative values in this population.

Methods

Patients with a normal basic ear examination 4 years and older, presenting to the pediatric Otolaryngology clinic, were recruited. Otoscopy, baseline tympanometry, followed by Valsalva and Toynbee maneuvers were performed. Because there are no pediatric norms, we hypothesized that children would achieve the same minimum normal pressure shift as cited in the adult literature (+20 daPa or higher for Valsalva and −20 daPa or lower for Toynbee). The data were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves and logistic regression.

Results

One hundred sixty-eight children (276 ears) were assessed. Participants as young as 4 years old were able to perform a Valsalva and Toynbee. Age cut-offs at which children achieved adult norms were 12.5 years (p = 0.016) and 8.5 years (p = 0.071) for Valsalva and Toynbee maneuvers, respectively. Mean pressure shift ranged from +29 to −36 daPa, and males were 2.5 times more likely to achieve Toynbee compared with females (p = 0.006).

Conclusions

Functional tympanometry testing may be used to help diagnose barochallenge-induced ETD in older children.
Improved Postoperative Speech Recognition and Processor Use With Early Cochlear Implant Activation
Authors: Patro Ankita , Lindquist Nathan R. , Holder Jourdan T. , Freeman Michael H. , Gifford René H. , Tawfik Kareem O. , O'Malley Matthew R. , Bennett Marc L. , Haynes David S. , Perkins Elizabeth L.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To report speech recognition outcomes and processor use based on timing of cochlear implant (CI) activation.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Patients

A total of 604 adult CI recipients from October 2011 to March 2022, stratified by timing of CI activation (group 1: ≤10 d, n = 47; group 2: >10 d, n = 557).

Main Outcome Measures

Average daily processor use; Consonant-Nucleus-Consonant (CNC) and Arizona Biomedical (AzBio) in quiet at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month visits; time to peak performance.

Results

The groups did not differ in sex (p= 0.887), age at CI (p= 0.109), preoperative CNC (p= 0.070), or preoperative AzBio in quiet (p= 0.113). Group 1 had higher median daily processor use than group 2 at the 1-month visit (12.3 versus 10.7 h/d,p= 0.017), with no significant differences at 3, 6, and 12 months. The early activation group had superior median CNC performance at 3 months (56% versus 46%,p= 0.007) and 12 months (60% versus 52%,p= 0.044). Similarly, the early activation group had superior median AzBio in quiet performance at 3 months (72% versus 59%,p= 0.008) and 12 months (75% versus 68%,p= 0.049). Both groups were equivalent in time to peak performance for CNC and AzBio. Earlier CI activation was significantly correlated with higher average daily processor use at all follow-up intervals.

Conclusion

CI activation within 10 days of surgery is associated with increased early device usage and superior speech recognition at both early and late follow-up visits. Timing of activation and device usage are modifiable factors that can help optimize postoperative outcomes in the CI population.
Micronutrients as therapy in critical illness
Authors: Stoppe Christian , Dresen Ellen , de Man Angelique
Published: March 2024

Purpose of review

Recent large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) challenged current beliefs about the potential role of micronutrients to attenuate the inflammatory response and improve clinical outcomes of critically ill patients. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide an overview and critical discussion about most recent clinical trials, which evaluated the clinical significance of a vitamin C, vitamin D, or selenium administration in critically ill patients.

Recent findings

None of the most recent large-scale RCTs could demonstrate any clinical benefits for a micronutrient administration in ICU patients, whereas a recent RCT indicated harmful effects, if high dose vitamin C was administered in septic patients. Following meta-analyses could not confirm harmful effects for high dose vitamin C in general critically ill patients and indicated benefits in the subgroup of general ICU patients with higher mortality risk. For vitamin D, the most recent large-scale RCT could not demonstrate clinical benefits for critically ill patients, whereas another large-scale RCT is still ongoing. The aggregated and meta-analyzed evidence highlighted a potential role for intravenous vitamin D administration, which encourages further research. In high-risk cardiac surgery patients, a perioperative application of high-dose selenium was unable to improve patients‘ outcome. The observed increase of selenium levels in the patients‘ blood did not translate into an increase of antioxidative or anti-inflammatory enzymes, which illuminates the urgent need for more research to identify potential confounding factors.

Current data received from most recent large-scale RCTs could not demonstrate clinically meaningful effects of an intervention with either vitamin C, vitamin D, or selenium in critically ill patients. More attention is needed to carefully identify potential confounding factors and to better evaluate the role of timing, duration, and combined strategies.
Remission in asthma
Authors: Lommatzsch Marek
Published: March 2024

Purpose of review

To review the current concepts of remission in asthma.

Recent findings

Until 2023, asthma guidelines have been promoting the concept of disease control, recommending the step-wise addition of drugs until the best possible disease control is achieved. With the advent of highly effective, anti-inflammatory disease-modifying antiasthmatic drugs (DMAADs), treatment goals of asthma have changed. Several national guidelines have now announced remission as a general treatment goal in asthma. Currently, all guidelines agree that asthma remission is defined by the presence of at least three characteristics over a period of at least one 1 year: absence of exacerbations, no systemic corticosteroid use for the treatment of asthma and minimal asthma-related symptoms. In the future, a generally accepted, evidence-based and easy-to-use definition of remission will be needed for daily clinical practice. It is clear, however, that precise phenotyping (including measurement of biomarkers) is an essential prerequisite to achieve clinical remission in each individual patient.

Remission has been included as the treatment goal in asthma in several national guidelines, reflecting the paradigm shift in asthma, from short-term symptom control to long-term symptom prevention. An international consensus on the criteria for asthma remission is expected in the near future.
Chronic underlying gastrointestinal amyloidosis was revealed by cardiac echography - A case report from Syria
Authors: Asaad Ali , Ranjous Yahia , Hassan Zein Aldeen , Alahmad Nazir , Ghanimeh Lama , Ali Ayman
Published: March 2024

Introduction and importance:

Amyloidosis is an infiltrative disease caused by the deposition of abnormal proteins. While cardiac amyloidosis is relatively common, gastrointestinal (GI) tract involvement is less frequent. In this case, we report a delayed diagnosis of systemic amyloidosis presenting mainly with digestive symptoms.

Case presentation:

An 81-year-old male presented with the complaint of persistent diarrhea for over a year and the progressive development of edemas during the last four months. Echocardiogram findings revealed the presence of the characteristic sparkling sign. The diagnosis of amyloidosis was confirmed by histopathological biopsies taken from the duodenum. Serum electrophoresis findings strongly suggested the possibility of plasma cell dyscrasia.

Clinical discussion:

What distinguishes this case is that the suspicion of amyloidosis as the underlying cause of the diarrhea did not arise until an incidental echocardiogram revealed cardiac hypertrophy and a sparkling appearance.

Conclusion:

This case reminds us to consider amyloidosis as a possible underlying cause for unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, especially in bad economic situations where the diagnosis of rare diseases may be delayed.
Extremity Injuries in Pillion Riders of Fatal 2-Wheeler Road Traffic Accidents
Authors: Ayyappan Sathish , Sukumar Sanjay , Chaudhari Vinod Ashok
Published: March 2024

The extremities are the important anatomical regions that are disproportionately injured during road traffic accidents in poor and medium-income countries. The data regarding extremity injuries, particularly in pillion passengers, are minimal globally. We analyzed the pattern of extremity injuries and their association with various parameters such as collision type, seating position, road type, and type of vehicle. This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study. The pillion riders of fatal motorized 2-wheeler road accident cases that were subjected to autopsy were studied over a period of 2 years. We analyzed 73 cases of pillion riders. Females (60%) were the most commonly affected group. The upper extremities were injured in 55 cases (75.3%) and the lower extremities in 49 cases (67.1%). The shoulder (41%), hand (31.3%), and elbow (23.2%) were the predominantly injured anatomical regions of the upper limb. In the lower extremity, knee (41%) and foot (21.9%) were mostly affected. Forty-nine (67.1%) and 48 (65.8%) cases had abrasions in the upper limbs and lower limbs, respectively, followed by lacerations and contusions. Upper extremity injuries are more common compared with lower extremity. The majority of the pillion riders were seated in a side-saddle position, and self-fall from the bike without any collision with other vehicles was the most common mode of injury. Thus, appropriate seating posture with safety gear can be used to reduce extremity injuries.
East Asia Superciliary Arch Augmentation With Silicone Implant
Authors: Liu Jianfeng , Qiao Jia , Fu Xi , Yu Bing , Chen Ying , Jin Qi , Xu Shixing , He Yu , Niu Feng
Published: March 2024

Objective:

A flat superciliary arch is relatively common in East Asian women. Superciliary arch augmentation aims to increase the facial three-dimensionality of the upper face. However, there are few reports in the literature specifically introducing the surgery. In this study, the authors present the clinical outcomes after a series of superciliary arch augmentation with silicone implants.

Methods:

From May 2020 to December 2022, 54 patients underwent superciliary arch augmentation with silicone implants. Silicone implants generally have a length of 50 to 60 mm, a width of 13 to 14 mm, and an arc of 170 degrees. The thickness was 2 to 7 mm. The implant was placed subperiosteal at the lower edges of the eyebrows through a 7 mm incision below the brow tail. All patients evaluated the outcome according to the Global Esthetic Improvement Scale. Four plastic surgeons evaluated postsurgery results with a 5-point Likert Scale (5 = excellent, 4 = good, 3 = fair, 2 = no change, and 1 = worse).

Results:

Fifty-four patients were successfully enrolled. The mean follow-up period was 12.02 ± 3.38 months. The mean thickness was 4.55 ± 0.67 mm for the thickest part of the implant. The minor complication rate was 44.44%. They all subsided within 1 month without treatment. Patients’ outcome ratings were 4.45 ± 0.55 (3 mo), 4.51 ± 0.48 (6 mo), and 4.51 ± 0.45 (1 y). The surgeons’ outcome scoring was 4.49 ± 0.31.

Conclusions:

Superciliary arch augmentation with silicone implants is a quite simple, effective, inexpensive, and safe strategy to improve the three-dimensionality and contour of the upper face in East Asians.
Financial toxicity part II: A practical guide to measuring and tracking long-term financial outcomes among acute care surgery patients
Authors: Knowlton Lisa Marie , Scott John W. , Dowzicky Phillip , Murphy Patrick , Davis Kimberly A. , Staudenmayer Kristan , Martin R. Shayn
Published: March 2024

Acute care surgery (ACS) patients are frequently faced with significant long-term recovery and financial implications that extend far beyond their hospitalization. While major injury and emergency general surgery (EGS) emergencies are often viewed solely as acute moments of crisis, the impact on patients can be lifelong. Financial outcomes after major injury or emergency surgery have only begun to be understood. The Healthcare Economics Committee from the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma previously published a conceptual overview of financial toxicity in ACS, highlighting the association between financial outcomes and long-term physical recovery. The aims of second-phase financial toxicity review by the Healthcare Economics Committee of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma are to (1) understand the unique impact of financial toxicity on ACS patients; (2) delineate the current limitations surrounding measurement domains of financial toxicity in ACS; (3) explore the “when, what and how” of optimally capturing financial outcomes in ACS; and (4) delineate next steps for integration of these financial metrics in our long-term patient outcomes. As acute care surgeons, our patients' recovery is often contingent on equal parts physical, emotional, and financial recovery. The ACS community has an opportunity to impact long-term patient outcomes and well-being far beyond clinical recovery.
Diagnostic significance and potential function of miR-320d in schizophrenia
Authors: Ren Fangfang , Si Qi , Sui Yuxiu
Published: March 2024

Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder and needs objective diagnostic biomarkers. MicroRNAs are highly expressed in the nervous system. The study investigated the expression and clinical values of serum miR-320d in schizophrenia patients. In addition, the underlying mechanism was preliminarily examined via bioinformatic analysis. Serum samples were collected from 57 patients with first-episode schizophrenia and 62 healthy controls. The cognitive function of patients was assessed via Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) consisting of seven domains. Serum miR-320d levels were tested via qRT-PCR. The miRNA target predictions were obtained from Target Scan, and annotated through Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Based on the GSE167630 dataset, downregulated serum miR-320d in schizophrenia was identified, which was determined in the serum of schizophrenia patients. Serum miR-320d presented a conspicuous relationship with MCCB score in both the control group and the schizophrenia group. After adjusting for age, sex, BMI, and education, serum miR-320d was still independently related to the occurrence of schizophrenia. It can identify schizophrenia cases from healthy ones with an AUC of 0.931. The Go enrichment analysis indicated that the target genes were mainly enriched in homophilic cell adhesion and cell-cell adhesion via plasma-membrane adhesion molecules, and GTPase activity and guanosine diphosphate (GDP) binding. Rap1 signaling pathway was enriched via KEGG analysis. Serum miR-320d can be taken as a candidate marker for the diagnosis of schizophrenia. Its regulatory role in neuronal cell adhesion and Rap1 signaling pathway might be the potential underlying mechanism of miR-320d in schizophrenia.
Incidental finding of a human-like tusavirus in a lamb with lip lesions and fatal pneumonia
Authors: Davies Hannah , Dastjerdi Akbar , Everest David , Floyd Tobias , Collins Rachael , McFadzean Harriet , Reuter Gábor , Reichel Rudolf
Published: March 2024

Tusaviruses in the genus Protoparvovirus of family Parvoviridae were first identified in a diarrhoeic Tunisian child in 2014. Thereafter, high prevalence of a genetically similar virus was demonstrated in faeces from caprine and ovine species in Hungary. Here, we describe an investigation into the cause of scabby lip lesions in a 6 month-old lamb, submitted from a farm experiencing weight loss and scouring in lambs in England. Transmission electron microscopy visualised small circular particles of 18 and 22 nm in diameter in lip lesions identified as tusavirus and flumine parvovirus by Next Generation Sequencing. Liver, kidney, lung, small intestine content and faeces were also strongly positive for the tusavirus DNA as well as 10 % of faecal samples of the flock collected 2 months after the initial lip sampling. NS1 and VP1 amino acid sequences of this tusavirus displayed 99.5 and 92.89 % identity to those of a human tusavirus, respectively. These amino acid identities were at 95.5 and 89.68 % when compared to those of a goat tusavirus. Phylogenetic analysis of the NS1 and VP1 also grouped the virus in the genus Protoparvovirus and close to tusaviruses detected in human, ovine and caprine species. Wider surveillance of the virus indicated a broader geographical distribution for the virus in England. Histology of the lip tissue revealed localised areas of epidermal hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis affecting haired skin, with mild leucocyte infiltration of the subjacent dermis, but no changes to implicate virus involvement. Flumine parvovirus was concluded to be an environment contaminant. Broader studies in prevalence of these virus in UK sheep flocks and human population, animal models and experimental infections could provide insights into the pathogenesis of these novel viruses and their zoonotic potential.
Re-emergence of dengue virus 3 genotype III in Cabo Verde, 2023
Authors: Santos Menilita dos , Dieng Idrissa , Fernandes Varela Isaias Baptista , Rosa Carvalho Kevin Sanders Da , Texeira Domingos Dias , Furtado Ullardina , Hungria Liliane , Souza Letícia , Tavares Leidiza , Barry Mamadou Aliou , Talla Cheikh , Sagne Samba Niang , Faye Ousmane , Dia Ndongo , Loucoubar Cheikh , Faye Oumar , Sall Amadou Alpha , Diallo Boubacar , Diagne Moussa Moïse , Luz Lima Maria da , Sow Abdourahmane
Published: March 2024

We characterized 11 autochthonous dengue virus serotype 3 cases from Santiago and Fogo islands (Cabo Verde), 14 years after Cabo Verde’s latest noticed DENV outbreak involving this serotype. Identified viruses are closely related to Asian strains and falling into a clade distinct from known circulating West African DENV-3/Genotype III isolates.
Calcium-dependent regulation of neuronal excitability is rescued in Fragile X Syndrome by a tat-conjugated N-terminal fragment of FMRP
Authors: Zhan Xiaoqin , Asmara Hadhimulya , Pfaffinger Paul , Turner Ray W.
Published: March 2024

Fragile X Syndrome arises from the loss of Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein (FMRP) needed for normal neuronal excitability and circuit functions. Recent work revealed that FMRP contributes to mossy fiber LTP by adjusting Kv4 A-type current availability through interactions with a Cav3-Kv4 ion channel complex, yet the mechanism has not yet been defined. In this study using wild-type andFmr1knockout (KO) tsA-201 cells and cerebellar sections fromFmr1KO mice, we show that FMRP associates with all subunits of the Cav3.1-Kv4.3-KChIP3 complex, and is critical to enabling calcium-dependent shifts in Kv4.3 inactivation to modulate A-type current. Specifically, upon depolarization Cav3 calcium influx activates dual specific phosphatase 1/6 (DUSP1/6) to deactivate ERK1/2 (ERK) and lower phosphorylation of Kv4.3, a signalling pathway that does not function inFmr1KO cells. InFmr1KO mouse tissue slices cerebellar granule cells exhibit a hyperexcitable response to membrane depolarizations. Either incubatingFmr1KO cells orin vivoadministration of a tat-conjugated FMRP N-terminus fragment (FMRP-N-tat) rescued Cav3-Kv4 function and granule cell excitability, with a decrease in the level of DUSP6. Together these data reveal a Cav3-activated DUSP signalling pathway critical to the function of a FMRP-Cav3-Kv4 complex that is misregulated inFmr1KO conditions. Moreover, FMRP-N-tat restores function of this complex to rescue calcium-dependent control of neuronal excitability as a potential therapeutic approach to alleviating the symptoms of Fragile X Syndrome.

Significance Statement

Changes in neuronal excitability and ion channel functions have been a focus in studies of Fragile X Syndrome. Previous work identified ion channels that are regulated by FMRP through either protein translation or direct protein-protein interactions. The current study reveals FMRP as a constitutive member of a Cav3-Kv4 complex that is required for a Cav3-DUSP-ERK signalling pathway to increase A-type current and reduce cerebellar granule cell excitability. InFmr1KO cells, Cav3-Kv4 function and calcium-dependent modulation of A-type current is lost, leading to a hyperexcitable state of cerebellar granule cells. Pretreating with FMRP-N-tat restores all Cav3-Kv4 function and granule cell excitability, providing support for FMRP-tat peptide treatment as a potential therapeutic strategy for Fragile X Syndrome.
Cost-utility analysis of primary HPV testing through home-based self-sampling in comparison to visual inspection using acetic acid for cervical cancer screening in East district, Sikkim, India, 2023
Authors: Hariprasad Roopa , Bagepally Bhavani Shankara , Kumar Sajith , Pradhan Sangeeta , Gurung Deepsikka , Tamang Harki , Sharma Arpana , Bhatnagar Tarun
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Primary Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) testing offers higher sensitivity and specificity over Visual Inspection using Acetic acid (VIA) in cervical cancer screening. Self-sampling is a promising strategy to boost participation and reduce disparities. However, concerns about the initial costs hinder HPV testing adoption in low and middle-income countries. This study assesses the cost-utility of home-based HPV self-sampling versus VIA for cervical cancer screening in India

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in East district, Sikkim, India, comparing the costs and utility outcomes of population-based cervical cancer screening through VIA and primary HPV screening through self-sampling. Cost-related data were collected from April 2021 to March 2022 using the bottom-up micro-costing method, while utility measures were collected prospectively using the EuroQoL-5D-5L questionnaire. The utility values were converted into quality-adjusted life days (QALDs) for an 8-day period. The willingness to pay threshold (WTP) was based on per capita GDP for 2022. If the calculated Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ICER) value is lower than the WTP threshold, it signifies that the intervention is cost-effective.

Results

The study included 95 women in each group of cervical cancer screening with VIA & HPV self-sampling. For eight days, the QALD was found to be 7.977 for the VIA group and 8.0 for the HPV group. The unit cost per woman screened by VIA and HPV self-testing was ₹1,597 (US$ 19.2) and ₹1,271(US$ 15.3), respectively. The ICER was ₹-14,459 (US$ −173.6), which was much below the WTP threshold for eight QALDs, i.e. ₹ 4,193 (US$ 50.4).

Conclusion

The findings support HPV self-sampling as a cost-effective alternative to VIA. This informs policymakers and healthcare providers for better resource allocation in cervical cancer screening in Sikkim.
A protocol for the comparison of telephone and in-person interview modalities: duration, richness, and costs in the context of exploring determinants of equitable access to community health services in Meru, Kenya
Authors: Allen Luke N , Karanja Sarah , Tlhajoane Malebogo , Tlhakanelo John , Macleod David , Bastawrous Andrew
Published: March 2024

Background

Our research team is conducting phenomenological interviews with people who have not been able to access health services in Meru County, Kenya, aiming to explore the barriers they face and their perceptions of how we could modify our community outreach services to improve accessibility. We plan to conduct an embedded study that compares in-person and telephone interview modalities in terms of the richness of the data and the resources required for each modality.

Methods/Design

This is a qualitative mode comparison study, embedded within a broader project to understand and address the issues that lead to inequitable access to local outreach clinics in Kenya. We will recruit at least 40 people who have been referred to local services but who have not been able to attend. We will conduct in-person interviews with half of these people, and telephone interviews with the other half. We will use random numbers to determine the modality that is used for each participant. All interviews will be conducted in the same month by a team of six research assistants who will use the same topic guide and analytic matrix for each interview. For all interviews conducted in each mode we will record and compare the mean duration; mean number of themes reported by each participant; total number of themes reported; interviewer rating of perceived richness; interviewer rating of perceived ease of building rapport; number of days taken by the team to complete all interviews; and all costs associated with conducting the interviews.

Discussion

The findings will help us to weigh up the relative strengths and weaknesses of each modality for our research context. Given that we are exploring a focused research question in a fairly homogenous population, we anticipate that there may not be a meaningful difference in the number of themes reported.
T2DFitTailor: A tool for type 2 diabetes patients to tailor exercise plan
Authors: Liu Cheng , Hou Xinyu , Xu Bingxiang , Liu Tiemin , Wang Ru
Published: March 2024

Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) poses a formidable global health challenge, with its escalating prevalence contributing significantly to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. This chronic condition, characterized by insulin resistance and hyperglycemia, leads to a plethora of complications, intensifying its societal and economic impact. Exercise, as a fundamental element of T2D management, is universally recommended for its ability to improve glycemic control and mitigate cardiovascular risks. However, individual responses to exercise vary considerably among T2D patients, leading to inconsistencies in the effectiveness of generic exercise plans. This heterogeneity in response to different exercise interventions highlights the need for more personalized approaches, tailoring exercise plans to individual patient profiles to optimize therapeutic outcomes. Our study addresses this critical need through the development of the T2DFitTailor package, a novel R-based tool that customizes exercise recommendations for T2D patients. Utilizing a comprehensive analysis of individual parameters, T2DFitTailor accurately predicts the impact of specific exercise plans on the reduction of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. This personalized approach to exercise prescription in T2D management is a significant step forward in optimizing treatment strategies. It allows for a more targeted, effective intervention, thereby improving patient outcomes and quality of life. T2DFitTailor, accessible at ‘https://cran.r-project.org/package=T2DFitTailor’, represents a notable contribution to T2D care, reflecting the ongoing shift towards more data-driven and personalized healthcare strategies. This tool provides a practical solution to meet the varied requirements of T2D patients, ensuring that exercise prescriptions are not only based on scientific evidence but also customized to suit individual health profiles and specific needs.
Coronary Microvascular Function Following Severe Preeclampsia
Authors: Honigberg Michael C. , Economy Katherine E. , Pabón Maria A. , Wang Xiaowen , Castro Claire , Brown Jenifer M. , Divakaran Sanjay , Weber Brittany N. , Barrett Leanne , Perillo Anna , Sun Anina Y. , Antoine Tajmara , Farrohi Faranak , Docktor Brenda , Lau Emily S. , DeFaria Yeh Doreen , Natarajan Pradeep , Sarma Amy A. , Weisbrod Robert M. , Hamburg Naomi M. , Ho Jennifer E. , Roh Jason D. , Wood Malissa J. , Scott Nandita S. , Di Carli Marcelo F.
Published: March 2024

Background

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder associated with an imbalance in circulating pro- and anti-angiogenic proteins. Preclinical evidence implicates microvascular dysfunction as a potential mediator of preeclampsia-associated cardiovascular risk.

Methods

Women with singleton pregnancies complicated by severe antepartum-onset preeclampsia and a comparator group with normotensive deliveries underwent cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) within 4 weeks of delivery. A control group of pre-menopausal, non-postpartum women was also included. Myocardial flow reserve (MFR), myocardial blood flow (MBF), and coronary vascular resistance (CVR) were compared across groups. Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) were measured at imaging.

Results

The primary cohort included 19 women with severe preeclampsia (imaged at a mean 16.0 days postpartum), 5 with normotensive pregnancy (mean 14.4 days postpartum), and 13 non-postpartum female controls. Preeclampsia was associated with lower MFR (β=-0.67 [95% CI −1.21 to −0.13];P=0.016), lower stress MBF (β=-0.68 [95% CI, −1.07 to −0.29] mL/min/g;P=0.001), and higher stress CVR (β=+12.4 [95% CI 6.0 to 18.7] mmHg/mL/min/g;P=0.001) vs. non-postpartum controls. MFR and CVR after normotensive pregnancy were intermediate between preeclamptic and non-postpartum groups. Following preeclampsia, MFR was positively associated with time following delivery (P=0.008). The sFlt-1/PlGF ratio strongly correlated with rest MBF (r=0.71;P<0.001), independent of hemodynamics.

Conclusions

In this exploratory study, we observed reduced coronary microvascular function in the early postpartum period following severe preeclampsia, suggesting that systemic microvascular dysfunction in preeclampsia involves the coronary microcirculation. Further research is needed to establish interventions to mitigate risk of preeclampsia-associated cardiovascular disease.
Addressing anemia severity in antimony-resistantLeishmania donovaniinfection at the nexus of oxidative outburst and iron transit
Authors: Ghosh Souradeepa , Chigicherla Krishna Vamshi , Dasgupta Shirin , Goto Yasuyuki , Mukherjee Budhaditya
Published: March 2024

Despite the withdrawal of pentavalent-antimonials in treating Visceral leishmaniasis for more than a decade, recent clinical isolates ofLeishmania donovani(LD) exhibit unresponsiveness towards pentavalent-antimony (LD-R). This antimony-unresponsiveness points towards a genetic adaptation that underpins LD-R’s evolutionary persistence and superiority over sensitive counterparts. This study highlights LD’s response to antimony exposure in terms of increased potential of scavenging host-derived iron within its parasitophorous vacuoles (PV). LD-R employs a strategy to both produce and rapidly scavenge host-iron in a ROS-dependant manner, and selectively reshuffle iron exporter, Ferroportin, around its PV. Higher iron utilization leads to subsequent iron-insufficiency, compensated by increased erythrophagocytosis facilitated by the breakdown of SIRPα, orchestrated by a complex interplay of two proteases, Furin and ADAM10. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing LD-R infections and their associated complications, like anemia, and may also provide valuable insights into understanding resistance developed in other pathogens that rely on host iron.
Does owners’ leadership matter to relational behavior in mega construction projects? A role orientation perspective
Authors: Zheng Xian , Hu Xiao , Wu Chunlin , Bai Ju
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Although researchers have long recognized the importance of participating organizations’ (POs) relational behavior for mega construction projects (MCPs) performance, relational behavior may not be executed by POs without effective leadership from project owners. However, little is known about the mechanisms linking owners’ leadership styles to POs’ relational behavior. This study draws on full range leadership theory and role theory to examine the relationships between owners’ leadership styles (i.e. transformational and transactional) and relational behavior. POs’ role orientations (i.e. normative and economic) are considered as potential mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 175 managers deeply involved in MCPs. Hierarchical regression model and bootstrapping methods were performed on the data to examine the direct effects of owners’ leadership on POs’ relational behavior and the mediating effects of POs’ role orientations.

Findings

The results revealed that both owners’ transformational and transactional leadership positively affect POs’ relational behavior, despite the former being higher than the latter, and indirectly influence relational behavior via POs’ normative and economic role orientation, respectively.

Practical implications

This study provides a clear picture of how owners’ leadership can motivate POs’ relational behavior to achieve high-quality inter-organizational relationships in MCPs. The findings can guide owners’ top manager selection by prioritizing those with transformational leadership, which is beneficial to achieving high-level relational behavior of POs. The results also imply that owners should pay greater attention to cultivating POs’ normative role orientation by encouraging teamwork and open communication to enhance their implementation of relational behavior.

Originality/value

Unlike previous research focusing more on intra-organizational leader–follower relationship within one PO, this study is one of the first to empirically confirm owners’ leadership as a critical antecedent of POs’ relational behavior, thus enhancing the theoretical understanding of inter-organizational relationship management in MCPs. Based on role theory, this study considers a novel organizational psychology mechanism, i.e. POs’ role orientations, as the mediator to unravel how owners’ leadership affects POs’ relational behavior, which was rarely invoked in MCP leadership literature.
The effect of fabric structure on the pilling and abrasion resistance of interlock weft-knitted fabrics
Authors: Asayesh Azita , Kolahi Mahmoodi Fatemeh
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Pilling and abrasion resistance are two of the most important mechanical properties of the fabric that influence the appearance and performance of the fabric, particularly in the case of knitted fabrics. Since, these fabric features are affected by fabric structure the aim of present research is to investigate how utilizing miss stitches and tuck stitches in the fabric structure for design purposes will influence the pilling and abrasion resistance of interlock weft-knitted fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, interlock fabrics with different number of miss or tuck stitches on successive Wales were produced and pilling performance and abrasion resistance of the fabrics were investigated.

Findings

The results revealed that increasing the number of miss/tuck stitches on successive Wales decreases the abrasion resistance and enhances the pilling tendency of the fabric. The presence of miss/tuck stitches on both sides of the fabric improves the abrasion resistance and pilling performance of the fabric compared to fabrics containing these stitches on one side of the fabric. Furthermore, the fabric resistance against abrasion and pilling is higher in fabrics consisting of miss stitches compared to fabrics consisting of tuck stitches.

Originality/value

The use of tuck and miss stitches in designing the weft-knitted fabrics is a common method for producing fabrics with variety of knit patterns. Since pilling and abrasion resistance of the fabric influence on its appearance and performance, and none of the previous research studied the pilling and abrasion resistance of interlock-knitted fabrics from the point of presence of tuck and miss stitches on successive Wales of the fabric, this subject has been surveyed in the present research.
Integrating the bright and dark sides of temporal leadership on employees’ thriving at work
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhang Han , Zhu Jian
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Drawing on conservation of resources theory, this study aims to examine the relationship between temporal leadership (TL) and employees’ thriving at work (TW) by focusing on the positive mediating role of perception of work-goal progress (PWP), the negative mediating roles of job-based psychological ownership (JPO) and the moderating role of synchrony preference (SP).

Design/methodology/approach

We employed a dedicated data collection platform called Credamo for two waves of online questionnaires in China between March 2022 and April 2022. A total of 326 questionnaires were collected and analyzed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

(1) TL directly and positively affects TW. (2) TL indirectly and positively affects TW via PWP. (3) TL indirectly and negatively affects TW via JPO. (4) SP positively moderates the positive mediating effect of PWP on the relationship between TL and TW. (5) SP negatively moderates the negative mediating effect of JPO on the relationship between TL and TW.

Practical implications

Supervisors in organizations ought to discreetly practice TL and try to maximize the positive role of PWP and minimize the negative role of JPO.

Originality/value

The findings simultaneously discuss the effects of TL on TW from dark and bright perspectives. The influence of interaction between contextual and individual features on TW is also specified.
Does institutional quality moderate the human capital–inequality dynamics? Comparative evidence from LAC and SSA countries
Authors: Adeleye Bosede Ngozi
Published: March 2024

Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 10, this study probes whether quality institutions matter in the drive towards reducing income inequality through human capital. An unbalanced panel data on the Gini index (measure of income inequality), human capital index and institutional quality index drawn across 83 Latin America and sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries from 2010 to 2019 is used. For the most part, the consensus is that the interaction of human capital and quality institutions significantly reduces income inequality. For context, inequality reduces by −7.810 and −21.30 points for the full and SSA samples. Other findings reveal that the interaction effect is consistently negative at upper quantiles. Evidence from the margin plots reveals that the effect of human capital on inequality improves as institutional quality is strengthened. The downward trend of the plot within the 95% confidence interval shows that institutional quality enhances the impact of human capital on income inequality for the full sample and in SSA. This is a novel contribution to the literature as it suggests that quality institutions matter in the drive towards reducing the menace of income inequality. Policy recommendations are discussed.