bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teachers’ Perceptions of Instructional Coaches’ Practices in Professional Learning Communities
Authors: Elfarargy Hamada , Irby Beverly J. , Singer Erin A. , Lara-Alecio Rafael , Tong Fuhui , Pugliese Elisabeth
Published: August 2022

In this study, we investigated Texas teachers’ perceptions of instructional coaches’ (ICs) practices that improve professional learning communities (PLCs) to enhance teachers’ instructional capacities. The study’s participants included 67 teachers from rural, urban, and suburban school districts across the state of Texas. They enrolled in a virtual professional development (VPD) module related to improving instruction in high needs schools. Data were collected from participants via an open-ended survey. To answer the study research question, we employed a qualitative phenomenological research approach. Findings indicated that teachers perceived ICs can perform two main types of practices that contribute to enhancing PLC meetings: (a) practices for creating a safe PLC learning environment and (b) practices in PLCs for enhancing teachers’ instructional capacities. Our findings add to the literature providing the first empirical study in which researchers investigated teachers’ perceptions about ICs’ practices within PLCs.
College Students and “Interracial” Relationships: How Our Measures Matter
Authors: Tillman Kathryn Harker , Ramirez Surmeier Ladanya , Miller Byron
Published: August 2022

We use data from a random sample of students collected at two large public universities, one in the Midwestern region and one in the Southeastern region of the U.S., to document the prevalence of self-reported “interracial” romantic relationships (SR-IRRs) and the extent to which self-identifications differ from researcher-defined categorizations that label as “interracial/interethnic” all partnerships that cross racial or Latino/Hispanic ethnic boundaries (RD-IRRs). Our findings show that a substantial percentage of students in relationships that cross racial/ethnic lines do not identify them as “interracial.” As a result, measures of SR-IRR and RD-IRR produce very different prevalence figures for cross-group relationships (SR-IRR = 18% of respondents; RDIRR = 24%). The disjuncture between self-reports and researcher-defined categorizations is particularly pronounced for Hispanics and, to a lesser degree, non-Hispanic Whites. The consistency with which relationships that include non-Hispanic Black individuals are labeled, however, stands out as unique: every instance of racial/ethnic boundary crossing that involved an individual from this group was labeled as “interracial.” Multivariate analyses identify significant predictors of SR-IRRs and RDIRRs and how race/ethnicity, nativity status, and university location interact to shape relationship engagement and the likelihood of self-identifying relationships as “interracial.” Our discussion concludes with implications and suggestions for future research.
Computed Tomography Colonography (CTC): Is It Really the Non-Invasive Option We Think It Is? A Patient Experience Study
Authors: Dewar Greg , Brockbank Bethany , Randall Jonathan
Published: August 2022

Aims: Computed tomography colonography (CTC) is seen as a more tolerable alternative to colonoscopy, but patients struggle with the steps required for optimal diagnostic imaging. This prospective study aims to understand the experience of patients undergoing CTC. Methods: A survey was completed by a convenience sample of patients before and after CTC over 7 months. The 13-item questionnaire covered pre-test information, overall and specific experience of the test. The responses were tabulated and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative free-text responses were coded for content and thematic analysis. Results: At a response rate of 51%, surveys were received from 41 patients. Overall, most patients (54%) found the investigation better than expected. However, 18% stated they were not informed of potential side effects. Side effects were experienced by 49% of patients, including diarrhea (34%) and abdominal pain (24%). About 59% experienced discomfort with gas insufflation, and 86% found turning during the investigation difficult. Conclusion: A significant proportion of patients undergoing CTC experience side effects and difficulties completing the investigation. Patient information is important to improve patient experience of CTC.
Palliative Care: A Concept Analysis Review
Authors: Wantonoro Wantonoro , Suryaningsih Endang Koni , Anita Diyah Chandra , Nguyen Tuan Van
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Palliative care is critically important for the world’s aging population and can change illness trajectories and promote advances in health care technologies. As health care team members, nurses have the most contact with palliative care patients. However, misconceptions about which patients need to receive palliative care may be an obstacle to meeting patients’ needs for palliative care.

Objectives

This study aimed to describe preceding events, characteristics and outcomes of patients in palliative care according to current concept analysis studies.

Methods

A literature review was conducted. Inclusion criteria were: (1) concept analysis studies, (2) use of the term palliative care or palliative nursing care, (3) palliative care explanation including antecedents, attributes, and consequences, and (4) articles written in English published between 2004 and 2021.

Results

Four concept analysis studies on palliative care were included in this review. Palliative care was described as an approach to alleviating physical and psychological suffering and improving patients’ and families’ quality of life in the early stages of diagnosed illness. Terminal illnesses, acute or chronic diseases, and actual or potentially life-threatening illnesses were confirmed as the events preceding palliative care. Characteristics of palliative care include holistic care, interdisciplinary teamwork, and compassionate, patient- and family-centered care. Improved patient and family quality of life, enhanced human dignity, improved self-care, and strengthened coping abilities are outcomes of palliative care.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

Palliative care is a concept that is related to the early stage of an illness, the timing of illness diagnosis, and the onset of symptoms. Including palliative care terms in nursing education and training and developing palliative care models in clinical practice are recommended to ensure nurses understand the services of the palliative care needs of patients and their families. Future reviews, including grounded qualitative studies on the concept of palliative care, are recommended.
Measuring the local complementarity of population, amenities and digital activities to identify and understand urban areas of interest
Authors: Graells-Garrido Eduardo , Schifanella Rossano , Opitz Daniela , Rowe Francisco
Published: August 2022

Identifying and understanding areas of interest are essential for urban planning. These areas are normally defined from static features of the resident population and urban amenities. Research has emphasised the importance of human mobility activity to capture the changing nature of these areas throughout the day, and the use of digital applications to reflect the increasing integration between material and online activities. Drawing on mobile phone data, this paper develops a novel approach to identify areas of interest based on the degree of complementarity of digital activities, available amenities and population levels. As a case study, we focus on the largest urban agglomeration of Chile, Santiago, where we identify three distinctive groups of areas: those concentrating (1) high availability of amenities; (2) high diversity of amenities and digital activities; and (3) areas lacking amenities, yet, presenting high usage of digital leisure and mobility applications. These findings identify areas where digital activities and local amenities play a complementary role in association with local population levels, and provide data-driven insights into the structure of material and digital activities in urban spaces that may characterise large Latin American cities.
α-Synuclein Interactions in Mitochondria-ER Contacts: A Possible Role in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Erustes Adolfo Garcia , Guarache Gabriel Cicolin , Guedes Erika da Cruz , Leão Anderson Henrique França Figueredo , Pereira Gustavo José da Silva , Smaili Soraya Soubhi
Published: August 2022

Endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria contact sites regulate various biological processes, such as mitochondrial dynamics, calcium homeostasis, autophagy and lipid metabolism. Notably, dysfunctions in these contact sites are closely related to neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However, details about the role of endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria contact sites in neurodegenerative diseases remain unknown. In Parkinson's disease, interactions between α-synuclein in the contact sites and components of tether complexes that connect organelles can lead to various dysfunctions, especially with regards to calcium homeostasis. This review will summarize the main tether complexes present in endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria contact sites, and their roles in calcium homeostasis and trafficking. We will discuss the impact of α-synuclein accumulation, its interaction with tethering complex components and the implications in Parkinson’s disease pathology.
Towards defining the core Saccharum microbiome: input from five genotypes
Authors: Ishida Juliane K. , Bini Andressa P. , Creste Silvana , Van Sluys Marie-Anne
Published: August 2022

Background

Plant microbiome and its manipulation inaugurate a new era for plant biotechnology with the potential to benefit sustainable crop production. Here, we used the large-scale 16S rDNA sequencing analysis to unravel the dynamic, structure, and composition of exophytic and endophytic microbial communities in two hybrid commercial cultivars of sugarcane (R570 and SP80–3280), two cultivated genotypes (Saccharum officinarum and Saccharum barberi) and one wild species (Saccharum spontaneum).

Results

Our analysis identified 1372 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs). The microbial communities’ profiles are grouped by two, root and bulk soils and stem and leave when these four components are compared. However, PCoA-based data supports that endophytes and epiphytes communities form distinct groups, revealing an active host-derived mechanism to select the resident microbiota. A strong genotype-influence on the assembly of microbial communities in Saccharum ssp. is documented. A total of 220 ASVs persisted across plant cultivars and species. The ubiquitous bacteria are two potential beneficial bacteria, Acinetobacter ssp., and Serratia symbiotica.

Conclusions

The results presented support the existence of common and cultivar-specific ASVs in two commercial hybrids, two cultivated canes and one species of Saccharum across tissues (leaves, stems, and roots). Also, evidence is provided that under the experimental conditions described here, each genotype bears its microbial community with little impact from the soil conditions, except in the root system. It remains to be demonstrated which aspect, genotype, environment or both, has the most significant impact on the microbial selection in sugarcane fields.
Collective outbreak of severe acute histoplasmosis in immunocompetent Chinese in South America: the clinical characteristics and continuous monitoring of serum cytokines/chemokines
Authors: Peng Yin-yin , Guo Shu-liang , Yan Xiao-feng , Zhang Lv-lang , Wang Jing , Yuan Guo-dan , Qing Gang , Xu Lu-lu , Zhan Qian
Published: August 2022

Background

Acute histoplasmosis is a rare fungal disease in China. This study is aimed to summarize the clinical characteristics of the first large-scale outbreak of imported acute histoplasmosis in Chinese, so as to provide suggestions for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

We collected the symptoms, signs, laboratory examination and imaging data of 10 patients in so far the biggest outbreak of imported acute histoplasmosis in immunocompetent Chinese. Their clinical characteristics and time-varying cytokine/chemokine levels were analyzed, and rank correlation analysis between these markers was utilized to show their condition.

Results

The 10 patients of imported acute histoplasmosis were working without any respiratory protection in an abandoned mine tunnel in Guyana. The most common symptoms were fever and cough. Their chest CT imaging showed multiple nodular shadows in lungs. Laboratory examination showed that at admission the CRP, PCT, LDH, CysC, G-test, β2-MG were all increased in at least 9 patients, and the CD4/CD8 was decreased to < 1 in all patients. Most cytokines/chemokines (other than IL-4, IL-12, INF-α, TNF-α) varied widely with patients and time, but their overall trend is higher at admission and decreasing gradually during hospitalization, especially for the IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IFN-γ. The LDH, CysC, G-test, β2-MG, N/L, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ, IL-27 are in positive associations to both CRP and PCT.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of acute histoplasmosis needs a comprehensive analysis of epidemiological history, clinical symptoms and signs, and results of imaging, laboratory, microbiological and pathological examinations. Although none of the CRP, PCT, G-test, N/L, LDH, CysC, β2-MG, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ shows specificity in the diagnosis of acute histoplasmosis, there is possibility that the above factors might help in the inflammation and prognosis estimation. However, more studies and further investigation are still required for the verification.
The upregulation of stromal antigen 3 expression suppresses the phenotypic hallmarks of hepatocellular carcinoma through the Smad3-CDK4/CDK6-cyclin D1 and CXCR4/RhoA pathways
Authors: Zhao Menglin , Wang Yanyan , Zhang Yue , Li Xinwei , Mi Jiaqi , Wang Qiang , Geng Zhijun , Zuo Lugen , Song Xue , Ge Sitang , Zhang Zining , Tang Mingyue , Li Huiyuan , Wang Zishu , Jiang Chenchen , Su Fang
Published: August 2022

Background

The stromal antigen 3 (STAG3) gene encodes an adhesion complex subunit that can regulate sister chromatid cohesion during cell division. Chromosome instability caused by STAG3 gene mutation may potentially promote tumor progression, but the effect of STAG3 on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the related molecular mechanism are not reported in the literature. The mechanism of the occurrence and development of HCC is not adequately understood. Therefore, the biological role of STAG3 in HCC remains to be studied, and whether STAG3 might be a sensitive therapeutic target in HCC remains to be determined.

Methods

The expression and clinical significance of STAG3 in HCC tissues and cell lines were determined by RT–qPCR and immunohistochemistry analyses. The biological functions of STAG3 in HCC were determined through in vitro and in vivo cell function tests. The molecular mechanism of STAG3 in HCC cells was then investigated by western blot assay.

Results

The mRNA expression of STAG3 was lower in most HCC cells than in normal cells. Subsequently, an immunohistochemical analysis of STAG3 was performed with 126 samples, and lower STAG3 expression was associated with worse overall survival in HCC patients. Moreover, cytofunctional tests revealed that the lentivirus-mediated overexpression of STAG3 in HCC cells inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion; promoted apoptosis; induced G1/S phase arrest in vitro; and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, studies of the molecular mechanism suggested that the overexpression of STAG3 increased Smad3 expression and decreased CDK4, CDK6, cyclin D1, CXCR4 and RhoA expression.

Conclusion

STAG3 exhibits anticancer effects against HCC, and these effects involve the Smad3-CDK4/CDK6-cyclin D1 and CXCR4/RhoA pathways. STAG3 is a tumor-suppressor gene that may serve as a potential target for molecular therapy, which provides a new idea for the treatment of HCC.
Natural history of intracholecystic papillary neoplasm (ICPN): a rare case of ICPN whose natural history was closely followed by ultrasound
Authors: Koike Daisuke , Kato Hiroyuki , Asano Yukio , Ito Masahiro , Arakawa Satoshi , Kawabe Norihiko , Shimura Masahiro , Hayashi Chihiro , Ochi Takayuki , Kamio Kenshiro , Kawai Toki , Yasuoka Hironobu , Higashiguchi Takahiko , Horiguchi Akihiko
Published: August 2022

The natural history of intracholecystic papillary neoplasm (ICPN), especially the speed of growth from small benign to a carcinomatous lesion, is quite unrevealed. Here, we report an extremely rare case of ICPN, in which the papillary lesion was observed transforming from small and benign to malignant using abdominal ultrasound (AUS) over 2 years during routine health checks. A 44-year-old man underwent a routine health check-up. The initial AUS showed a small sessile polyp in the gallbladder, which enlarged slightly at the next AUS, a year later. In the third year, the polypoid lesion enlarged markedly, with a maximum diameter of 10 × 9 × 7 mm. Therefore, a laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed. Microscopically, the 10 mm tumor had intracytoplasmic mucus, and a clear cytoplasm compatible with gastric-type features. Immunohistochemical analysis showed positive staining of atypical cells for MUC6 and PAS. These findings led to the diagnosis of ICPN with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia of the gastric type. In conclusion, sessile polyps with rapid growth might be a crucial finding in the early stage of ICPN.
First detection of mutated ERG11 gene in vulvovaginal Candida albicans isolates at Ouagadougou/Burkina Faso
Authors: Dovo Essi Etonam , Zohoncon Théodora Mahoukèdè , Tovo Sessi Frida , Soubeiga Serge Théophile , Kiendrebeogo Isabelle Touwendpoulimdé , Yonli Albert Théophane , Ouedraogo Rogomenona Alice , Dabire Amana Mètuor , Djigma Florencia Wendkuuni , Nadembega Christelle Wendyam , Belemgnegre Marius , Ouedraogo Paul , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas , Simpore Jacques
Published: August 2022

Background

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is an important cause of morbidity among women due to Candida species. In the last decades, resistance to azoles, first-line antifungals has increased. One molecular mechanism of azole resistance by Candida involves mutations in the ERG11 gene encoding lanosterol 14-α-demethylase, the target enzyme. This study was conducted to identify the clinical Candida species associated in vulvovaginal candidiasis; to determine the rate of antifungal resistance among Candida albicans isolates and to determine mutated ERG11 gene at Saint Camille Hospital in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

Methods

Antifungals susceptibility were performed using Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. ERG11 gene was detected using conventional PCR in C. albicans isolates resistant to at least one azole.

Results

Out of 262 clinical strains isolated, C. albicans accounted for 59.90%, followed by Candida glabrata 27.86%, Candida famata 7.25%, Candida tropicalis 3.05% and Saccharomyces cerevisiae 1.91%. Resistance rate of fluconazole to C. albicans was 59.54%. ERG11 gene was found in 9.79% of 92 C. albicans strains resistant to azoles.

Conclusions

This detection of mutated ERG11 gene in C. albicans is the first in Burkina Faso and may be a cause of azole resistance in recurrent Candida vulvovaginitis.
RSV testing practice and positivity by patient demographics in the United States: integrated analyses of MarketScan and NREVSS databases
Authors: Tran Phuong T. , Nduaguba Sabina O. , Diaby Vakaramoko , Choi Yoonyoung , Winterstein Almut G.
Published: August 2022

Background

RSV-incidence estimates obtained from routinely-collected healthcare data (e.g., MarketScan) are commonly adjusted for under-reporting using test positivity reported in national Surveillance Systems (NREVSS). However, NREVSS lacks detail on patient-level characteristics and the validity of applying a single positivity estimate across diverse patient groups is uncertain. We aimed to describe testing practices and test positivity across subgroups of private health insurance enrollees in the US and illustrate the possible magnitude of misclassification when using NREVSS to correct for RSV under ascertainment.

Methods

Using billing records, we determined distributions of RSV-test claims and test positivity among a national sample of private insurance enrollees. Tests were considered positive if they coincided with an RSV-diagnosis. We illustrated the influence of positivity variation across sub-populations when accounting for untested acute respiratory infections.

Results

Most tests were for children (age 0–4: 65.8%) and outpatient encounters (78.3%). Test positivity varied across age (0–4: 19.8%, 5–17: 1.8%, adults: 0.7%), regions (7.6–16.1%), settings (inpatient 4.7%, outpatient 14.2%), and test indication (5.0–35.9%). When compared to age, setting or indication-specific positivity, bias due to using NREVSS positivity to correct for untested ARIs ranged from − 76% to 3556%.

Conclusions

RSV-test positivity depends on the characteristics of patients for whom those tests were ordered. NREVSS-based correction for RSV-under-ascertainment underestimates the true incidence among children and overestimate rates among adults. Demographic-specific detail on testing practice and positivity can improve the accuracy of RSV-incidence estimates.
“I am alive because of her”: factors affecting adherence to combination antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Loveday Marian , Furin Jennifer , Hlangu Sindisiwe , Naidoo Tasneem
Published: August 2022

Background

People living with HIV need to take lifelong, combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), but there have been only limited explorations of how factors affecting adherence can change over the course of an individual’s lifetime.

Methods

We carried out a qualitative study of men and women living with HIV in KwaZulu, Natal, South Africa who were prescribed cART and who had periods of higher and lower adherence.

Results

18 individuals participated in open-ended interviews. Using a dynamic theory of adherence, we identified factual, relational, and experiential factors that were associated with adherence and non-adherence to cART. Periods of non-adherence were commonly reported. Participants described relationships and experiences as being important influences on their ability to adhere to cART throughout their treatment journeys.

Conclusions

Periods of non-adherence to cART are common. While many cART counseling models are based on conveying facts to people prescribed cART, providing opportunities for supportive relationship where people can process their varied experiences is likely important to maintaining health for people living with HIV.
DNA damage repair gene signature model for predicting prognosis and chemotherapy outcomes in lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xinshu , Huang Zhiyuan , Li Lei , Wang Guangxue , Dong Lin , Li Qinchuan , Yuan Jian , Li Yunhui
Published: August 2022

Background

Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is prone to metastasis and likely to develop resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. DNA repair has been reported to be involved in the progression and chemoresistance of LUSC. However, the relationship between LUSC patient prognosis and DNA damage repair genes is still unclear.

Methods

The clinical information of LUSC patients and tumour gene expression level data were downloaded from the TCGA database. Unsupervised clustering and Cox regression were performed to obtain molecular subtypes and prognosis-related significant genes based on a list including 150 DNA damage repair genes downloaded from the GSEA database. The coefficients determined by the multivariate Cox regression analysis and the expression level of prognosis-related DNA damage repair genes were employed to calculate the risk score, which divided LUSC patients into two groups: the high-risk group and the low-risk group. Immune viability, overall survival, and anticarcinogen sensitivity analyses of the two groups of LUSC patients were performed by Kaplan–Meier analysis with the log rank test, ssGSEA and the pRRophetic package in R software. A time-dependent ROC curve was applied to compare the survival prediction ability of the risk score, which was used to construct a survival prediction model by multivariate Cox regression. The prediction model was used to build a nomogram, the discriminative ability of which was confirmed by C-index assessment, and its calibration was validated by calibration curve analysis. Differentially expressed DNA damage repair genes in LUSC patient tissues were retrieved by the Wilcoxon test and validated by qRT–PCR and IHC.

Result

LUSC patients were separated into two clusters based on molecular subtypes, of which Cluster 2 was associated with worse overall survival. A prognostic prediction model for LUSC patients was constructed and validated, and a risk score calculated based on the expression levels of ten DNA damage repair genes was employed. The clinical utility was evaluated by drug sensitivity and immune filtration analyses. Thirteen-one genes were upregulated in LUSC patient samples, and we selected the top four genes that were validated by RT–PCR and IHC.

Conclusion

We established a novel prognostic model based on DNA damage repair gene expression that can be used to predict therapeutic efficacy in LUSC patients.
Carbon monoxide (CO) correlates with symptom severity, autoimmunity, and responses to probiotics treatment in a cohort of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD): a post-hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sherman Hannah Tayla , Liu Kevin , Kwong Kenneth , Chan Suk-Tak , Li Alice Chukun , Kong Xue-Jun
Published: August 2022

Background

Inflammation, autoimmunity, and gut-brain axis have been implicated in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Carboxyhemoglobin (SpCO) as a non-invasive measurement of inflammation has not been studied in individuals with ASD. We conducted this post-hoc study based on our published clinical trial to explore SpCO and its association with ASD severity, autoimmunity, and response to daily Lactobacillus plantarum probiotic supplementation.

Methods

In this study, we included 35 individuals with ASD aged 3–20 years from a previously published clinical trial of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive daily Lactobacillus plantarum probiotic (6 × 1010 CFUs) or a placebo for 16 weeks. The outcomes in this analysis include Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), Aberrant Behavior Checklist second edition (ABC-2), Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale, SpCO measured by CO-oximetry, fecal microbiome by 16 s rRNA sequencing, blood serum inflammatory markers, autoantibodies, and oxytocin (OT) by ELISA. We performed Kendall’s correlation to examine their interrelationships and used Wilcoxon rank-sum test to compare the means of all outcomes between the two groups at baseline and 16 weeks.

Results

Elevated levels of serum anti-tubulin, CaM kinase II, anti-dopamine receptor D1 (anti-D1), and SpCO were found in the majority of ASD subjects. ASD severity is correlated with SpCO (baseline, R = 0.38, p = 0.029), anti-lysoganglioside GM1 (R = 0.83, p = 0.022), anti-tubulin (R = 0.69, p = 0.042), and anti-D1 (R = 0.71, p = 0.045) in treatment group.

Conclusions

The findings of the present study suggests that the easily administered and non-invasive SpCO test offers a potentially promising autoimmunity and inflammatory biomarker to screen/subgroup ASD and monitor the treatment response to probiotics. Furthermore, we propose that the associations between autoantibodies, gut microbiome profile, serum OT level, GI symptom severity, and ASD core symptom severity scores are specific to the usage of probiotic treatment in our subject cohort. Taken together, these results warrant further studies to improve ASD early diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03337035, registered November 8, 2017.
Post-partum abdominal wall insufficiency syndrome (PPAWIS): lessons learned from a single surgeon’s experience based on 200 cases
Authors: Śmietański Maciej , Śmietańska Irmina Anna , Zamkowski Mateusz
Published: August 2022

Background

Post-partum abdominal wall insufficiency (PPAWI) with rectus diastasis is present in over 30% of women after pregnancy. Little is known about how PPAWI affects the social, sexual life and self-esteem of patients. This study was designed to evaluate the safety of onlay mesh combined with abdominoplasty and its impact on the well-being of the patients.

Method

Two hundred patients with PPAWI underwent surgery with onlay mesh and abdominoplasty. The safety of the procedure was assessed by postoperative complications, time of hospitalization and time of drainage. Before the operation and 6 months later, a questionnaire asking about the patient’s sexual and social life and the presence of back pain was completed. The final cosmetic effect was assessed separately.

Results

The onlay procedure with abdominoplasty was found to be safe and fast. The mean operation time was 82 min, and the drainage time was 2.1 days. In this group < 2% postoperative complications were noted. There were no recurrences within the 6 month. Significant improvements in social and sexual life and the level of self-esteem were noted. Back pain was relieved or minimalized in all patients. The final cosmetic effect was insufficient for 2 patients (1%).

Conclusion

PPAWI can be treated safely with onlay mesh and abdominoplasty. The patients’ symptoms were strongly correlated with the morphological status of the front abdominal wall and improved after the procedure. Describing the psychological and social consequences of PPAWI should lead the surgical societies to propose a definition of a new disease called PPAWIS (post-partum abdominal wall insufficiency syndrome).
Timing selection for loosened tooth fixation based on degree of alveolar bone resorption: a finite element analysis
Authors: Ye Zhang-yan , Ye Hao , Yu Xi-xi , Wang Yong , Wu Li-jun , Ding Xi
Published: August 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate timing of fixation to retard bone absorption using finite element analysis(FEA).

Methods

Volunteer CT images were used to construct four models of mandibles with varying degrees of alveolar bone resorption. By simulating occlusal force loading, biomechanical analysis was made on the periodontal membrane, tooth root and surrounding bone (both cancellous and cortical) of mandibular dentition.

Results

The von Mises stress value of the periodontal structures was positively related with the degree of alveolar bone resorption, and the von Mises stress at the interface between the periodontal membrane and tooth root was increased significantly in moderate to severe periodontitis models. The von Mises stress at the interface between the periodontal cortical bone and cancellous bone was increased significantly in the severe periodontitis model. And the von Mises stress value with oblique loading showed significantly higher than vertical loading.

Conclusion

Teeth with moderate to severe periodontitis, loosened tooth fixation can be used to retard bone absorption.
Training promotores to lead virtual hereditary breast cancer education sessions for Spanish-speaking individuals of Latin American heritage in California
Authors: Reyna Micaela , Almeida Rebeca , Lopez-Macha Alejandra , Fuller Shannon , Duron Ysabel , Fejerman Laura
Published: August 2022

Background

Awareness about hereditary breast cancer and the preventative steps to minimize disease risk is lower in Hispanic/Latina individuals than non-Hispanic White women in the United States. For this reason, we developed a promotor-based hereditary breast cancer education and risk identification program for self-identified Hispanic/Latina women, which included training promotores in basic genetics and hereditary breast cancer. This study explored promotores’ experiences receiving training and participating in virtual practice sessions as well as changes in knowledge about hereditary breast cancer.

Methods

A total of ten promotores underwent a two-week basic training led by the promotores organization and an eight-hour in person hereditary breast cancer training workshop. Demographic information along with pre- and post-training surveys were completed by ten promotores who participated in the training workshop. Surveys were given to determine changes in knowledge of hereditary breast cancer and genetics. Of the ten promotores, two were selected to lead community education sessions and participated in 6 semi-structured interviews. All interviews and practice sessions were conducted using a virtual platform.

Results

The data revealed that after the 8-h workshop and practice sessions, promotores felt confident about their ability to conduct virtual education sessions with the community. Interviews identified key facilitators to success such as a supportive environment, practice presentations, and personal motivation. Learning the online platform was considered the biggest challenge by the promotores, as opposed to learning complex genetics topics.

Conclusions

These results provide further evidence supporting promotores’ willingness and ability to provide health education on relatively complex topics. It also offers insight into the challenges of presenting information to vulnerable populations using an online platform and the additional support that is required to ensure a positive outcome.
Impact of same day screening mammogram results on women’s satisfaction and overall breast cancer screening experience: a quality improvement survey analysis
Authors: Shah Biren A. , Mirchandani Anicia , Abrol Srishti
Published: August 2022

Background

Most women undergoing screening examinations in the U.S. do not receive immediate results and for many this results in increased stress, inconvenience, delayed diagnosis, and potential loss to follow-up.

Objective

To study the impact of same appointment mammogram results on breast cancer screening experience and patient satisfaction.

Materials and methods

A 6-question survey with questions focused on breast cancer screening experience with our new service of same appointment mammogram results was distributed to 200 patients, with 185 patients returning their responses. Patients evaluated their current experience on receiving their screening results during the same appointment with their prior breast cancer screening experience. Patients who did not respond to their satisfaction score either before or after same appointment results were excluded from the patient cohort analyzing satisfaction score. Remaining questions were analyzed separately as additional satisfaction assessment tools.

Results

About 48% of the patients indicated an improvement in their screening experience with same appointment mammography results service, while 47% of the patients reported no significant difference in their experience.

Conclusion

Although not statistically significant, same appointment mammogram results were able to make a positive impact on breast cancer screening experience among 48% of the patients. Further research elucidating barriers to screening and other ways to improve patient satisfaction will be required to increase breast cancer screening compliance.
The magnitude and perceived reasons for childhood cancer treatment abandonment in Ethiopia: from health care providers’ perspective
Authors: Mirutse Mizan Kiros , Tolla Mieraf Taddesse , Memirie Solomon Tessema , Palm Michael Tekle , Hailu Daniel , Abdi Kunuz Abdella , Buli Ermias Dessie , Norheim Ole F.
Published: August 2022

Background

Treatment abandonment is one of major reasons for childhood cancer treatment failure and low survival rate in low- and middle-income countries. Ethiopia plans to reduce abandonment rate by 60% (2019–2023), but baseline data and information about the contextual risk factors that influence treatment abandonment are scarce.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted from September 5 to 22, 2021, on the three major pediatric oncology centers in Ethiopia. Data on the incidence and reasons for treatment abandonment were obtained from healthcare professionals. We were unable to obtain data about the patients’ or guardians’ perspective because the information available in the cancer registry was incomplete to contact adequate number of respondents. We used a validated, semi-structured questionnaire developed by the International Society of Pediatric Oncology Abandonment Technical Working Group. We included all (N = 38) health care professionals (physicians, nurses, and social workers) working at these centers who had more than one year of experience in childhood cancer service provision (a universal sampling and 100% response rate).

Results

The perceived mean abandonment rate in Ethiopia is 34% (SE 2.5%). The risk of treatment abandonment is dependent on the type of cancer (high for bone sarcoma and brain tumor), the phase of treatment and treatment outcome. The highest risk is during maintenance and treatment failure or relapse for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and during pre- or post-surgical phase for Wilms tumor and bone sarcoma. The major influencing risk factors in Ethiopia includes high cost of care, low economic status, long travel time to treatment centers, long waiting time, belief in the incurability of cancer and poor public awareness about childhood cancer.

Conclusions

The perceived abandonment rate in Ethiopia is high, and the risk of abandonment varies according to the type of cancer, phase of treatment or treatment outcome. Therefore, mitigation strategies to reduce the abandonment rate should include identifying specific risk factors and prioritizing strategies based on their level of influence, effectiveness, feasibility, and affordability.
Experiences of peer support workers supporting individuals with substance use disorders in Egypt: phenomenological analysis
Authors: Ibrahim Nashwa , Selim Abeer , Ng Fiona , Kasaby Muhamed , Ali Amira Mohammed , Eweida Rasha , Almakki Doha , Elaagib Amna , Slade Mike
Published: August 2022

Background

Peer support work for substance use disorders is widely implemented in high-income countries. More research is still needed to understand its applicability in settings which have proportionately low budgets allocated to mental health. Peer Support Workers are individuals who managed to achieve recovery from substance use disorders and help people remain engaged in their recovery and prevent relapse through shared understanding.

Aim

To investigate the experience of peer support workers providing recovery support to people with substance use disorders in Egypt.

Methods

A qualitative phenomenological design was used in which 17 adults working as peer support workers for substance use disorders were recruited by means of purposive and snowball sampling. A semi-structured interview with participants was conducted by phone or video-call. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed based on descriptive phenomenology.

Results

Three superordinate themes were identified: role responsibility, Peer Support Workers’ need for organizational and stakeholders’ support, and challenges to the role integrity.

Conclusion and recommendations

The findings indicate the need for national and governmental support to peer support workers engaged with people with substance use disorders in Egypt and educating families and the public about the role of peer support workers in substance use disorders.
Screening and identification of immune-related genes for immunotherapy and prognostic assessment in colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Wang Shuwei , Cheng Liang , Jing Fa , Li Gan
Published: August 2022

Background

Increasing evidence indicates that the immune microenvironment plays a key role in the genesis and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to establish an immune-related gene (IRG) signature and determine its clinical prognostic value in patients with CRC.

Methods

The RNA sequencing and associated clinical data of CRC were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. We then screened for differentially expressed IRGs by intersecting with IRGs obtained from the Immunology Database and Analysis Portal. Functional enrichment analyses were carried out to determine the potential biological functions and pathways of the IRGs. We also explored the specific molecular mechanisms of the IRGs by constructing regulatory networks. Prognostic IRGs were obtained by LASSO regression analysis, and subsequently, gene models were constructed in the TCGA dataset to confirm the predictive capacity of these IRGs. Finally, we used the TIMER tool to assess the immune properties of prognostic IRGs and correlate them with immune cells.

Results

We identified 409 differentially expressed IRGs in patients with CRC. Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Ontology enrichment analyses suggested that these differentially expressed IRGs were significantly related to 102 cancer signalling pathways and various biological functions. Based on the prediction and interaction results, we obtained 59 TF–IRG, 48 miRNA–IRG, and 214 drug–IRG interaction networks for CRC. Four prognostic genes (POMC, TNFRSF19, FGF2, and SCG2) were developed by integrating 47 survival-related IRGs and 42 characteristic CRC genes. The results of gene model showed that patients in the low risk group had better survival outcomes compared to those in the high risk group. The expression of POMC, TNFRSF19, FGF2, and SCG2 was significantly correlated with immune cells.

Conclusion

This study identified some valid IRGs, and these findings can provide strong evidence for precision immunotherapy in patients with CRC.
The predictive value of the triglyceride—glucose index for cardiovascular events in patients with coronary chronic total occlusion
Authors: Li Yingkai , He Songyuan , Wu Zheng , Li Wenzheng , Jian Wen , Cheng Zichao , Wang Cong , Shi Yuchen , Liu Jinghua
Published: August 2022

Background

Chronic total occlusion (CTO) of the coronary artery is a difficult problem in clinical practice. The triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index is an effective risk predictor of cardiovascular risk. However, the relationship between the TyG index and the prognosis of CTO patients remains unstudied. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the TyG index and cardiovascular risk in CTO patients.

Methods

This was a single-centre, retrospective cohort study. We retrospectively enrolled 652 patients with CTO lesions diagnosed by angiography and who underwent revascularization through PCI. Patients were routinely followed up for 24 months unless meeting the endpoint. The primary endpoint was the composite of all-cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, unplanned revascularization, and nonfatal ischaemic stroke. To test the association of the TyG index with cardiovascular risk, the categorized TyG index and Cox proportional hazards regression models were utilized.

Results

A total of 652 patients were enrolled in the final analysis (male: 83.7%, age: 58.2 ± 10.49 years). The average TyG index was 8.8 ± 0.57. CTO PCIs were procedurally successfully completed in 503 (77.15%) patients. During the follow-up period of 22.8 ± 3.84 months, 73 (11.19%) major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral events (MACCEs) occurred. When fully adjusted, there was a 2.09-fold risk for MACCEs among patients with the highest TyG index compared with those with the lowest TyG index [T2 vs. T1: hazard ratio (HR) 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65–2.38, P = 0.057; T3 vs. T1: HR 2.09, 95% CI 1.14–3.86, P = 0.018; P for trend = 0.036]. The restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis showed that the HR for MACCEs increased as the TyG index increased over 8.71 [HR per standard deviation (SD) 1.740, 95% CI 1.23–2.46, P = 0.002]. The risk of MACCEs increased with increasing tertiles of TyG index in successful CTO PCI patients and nondiabetes mellitus (DM) patients (P < 0.05) but not in patients with failed CTO PCI and DM patients.

Conclusion

The study revealed that the TyG index had significant relevance to cardiovascular risk in CTO patients and suggests that the TyG index is feasible for predicting cardiovascular risk in CTO patients.
Conditional knockout of ASK1 in microglia/macrophages attenuates epileptic seizures and long-term neurobehavioural comorbidities by modulating the inflammatory responses of microglia/macrophages
Authors: Zhang Yiying , Wang Zhangyang , Wang Rongrong , Xia Lu , Cai Yiying , Tong Fangchao , Gao Yanqin , Ding Jing , Wang Xin
Published: August 2022

Background

Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) not only causes neuronal programmed cell death via the mitochondrial pathway but also is an essential component of the signalling cascade during microglial activation. We hypothesize that ASK1 selective deletion modulates inflammatory responses in microglia/macrophages(Mi/Mϕ) and attenuates seizure severity and long-term cognitive impairments in an epileptic mouse model.

Methods

Mi/Mϕ-specific ASK1 conditional knockout (ASK1 cKO) mice were obtained for experiments by mating ASK1flox/flox mice with CX3CR1creER mice with tamoxifen induction. Epileptic seizures were induced by intrahippocampal injection of kainic acid (KA). ASK1 expression and distribution were detected by western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. Seizures were monitored for 24 h per day with video recordings. Cognition, social and stress related activities were assessed with the Y maze test and the three-chamber social novelty preference test. The heterogeneous Mi/Mϕ status and inflammatory profiles were assessed with immunofluorescence staining and real-time polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR). Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the proportion of Mi/Mϕ in contact with apoptotic neurons, as well as neuronal damage.

Results

ASK1 was highly expressed in Mi/Mϕ during the acute phase of epilepsy. Conditional knockout of ASK1 in Mi/Mϕ markedly reduced the frequency of seizures in the acute phase and the frequency of spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRSs) in the chronic phase. In addition, ASK1 conditional knockout mice displayed long-term neurobehavioral improvements during the Y maze test and the three-chamber social novelty preference test. ASK1 selective knockout mitigated neuroinflammation, as evidenced by lower levels of Iba1+/CD16+ proinflammatory Mi/Mϕ. Conditional knockout of ASK1 increased Mi/Mϕ proportion in contact with apoptotic neurons. Neuronal loss was partially restored by ASK1 selective knockout.

Conclusion

Conditional knockout of ASK1 in Mi/Mϕ reduced seizure severity, neurobehavioral impairments, and histological damage, at least via inhibiting proinflammatory microglia/macrophages responses. ASK1 in microglia/macrophages is a potential therapeutic target for inflammatory responses in epilepsy.