bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isaac Asimov’s sci-fi novella “Profession” versus professionalism: Reflections on the (missing) scientific revolutions in the 21th century
Authors: Penchev Vasil
Published: November 2023

The starting point is Isaac Asimov’s famous sci-fi novella “Profession” (1957) to be “back” extrapolated to today’s relation between Thomas Kuhn’s “normal science” and “scientific revolutions” (1962). The latter should be accomplished by Asimov’s main personage George Platen’s ilk (called “feeble minded” in the novella) versus the “burned minded” professionals able only to “normal science”. Francis Fukuyama’s “end of history” in post-Hegelian manner is now interpreted to an analogically supposed “end of scientific history” without “scientific revolutions” any more. The relevant dystopia of the prolonged or even “eternal” period of normal science is justified to the contemporary institution of science due to mechanisms such as “peer-review”, “impact-factor rating”, the projects’ competition for funding, etc. Positive feedbacks forcing all scientists needing careers to be more and more orthodox are demonstrated therefore establishing for that dystopia to be the real state of contemporary science. Two counterfactual case studies based correspondingly on Feyerabend’s “Against method” (1975) if Galilei should make his discoveries today and Sokal’s hoax (1996) if he suggested a scientific masterpiece to be really rejected by journals are discussed. Still one case study considering the abundance of Kelvin’s “clouds” on the horizon of today’s physics (dark matter, dark energy, entanglement, quantum gravitation, phenomena refuting the Big Bang, etc.) serves to verify the aforementioned conjecture that science has already entered that dystopia of eternal normal science. The conception of “ontomathematics” implying “creation ex nihilo” being scandalous for the dominating paradigm is sketched as an eventual revolutionary way out.
Factors Affecting the Frequency of Visits to the Posyandu
Authors: Erma Dwi , Faisal Elvyrah , Khatimah Khusnul
Published: November 2023

Based on data from the Palu City Health Office regarding the visits of toddlers to posyandu, Mamboro is in the 3rd position with a percentage of 73.33%. This study aims to determine the factors that affect the frequency of visits to the Posyandu in West Mamboro, the working area of ​​the Mamboro Community Health Center. This type of research is analytic with a cross-sectional design. Sampling was done by taking data at the health center, with a total sampling technique. Data collection was carried out by direct interviews using a questionnaire. Data analysis used the chi-square test with a value of α = 0.05. The results showed that the frequency of active visits to posyandu was 72.4%. The percentage of unemployed and active workers at the posyandu was 58.7% (p value = 0.225;> 0.05). The percentage of good and active knowledge at the posyandu was 29.0%. The percentage of good family motivation makes mothers under five active to posyandu 62.3% (p-value = 1,000;> 0.05). The percentage of good performance of health workers makes mothers under five active to posyandu 57.9%. The percentage of good cadre performance makes mothers under five active to posyandu 56.5%. The conclusion is that there is an influence between work and the frequency of visits, there is no influence between knowledge, family motivation, the performance of health workers, and performance of cadres with the frequency of visits to posyandu.
Hubungan Tingkat Pendidikan Tingkat Pengetahuan dan Pekerjaan Ibu terhadap Keaktifan Ibu Balita ke Posyandu
Authors: Devina Amadea Setyastrid , Hariati Niken
Published: November 2023

Latar Belakang : Posyandu sebagai salah satu pelayanan kesehatan berfungsi memudahkan masyarakat dalam mengetahui atau memeriksakan kesehatan terutama untuk ibu hamil dan anak balita. Pelayanan kesehatan pada balita dapat dilakukan di posyandu sebagai unit kesehatan yang paling dekat dengan masyarakat. Untuk mengetahui pertumbuhan tersebut, penimbangan balita setiap bulan sangat diperlukan. Tujuan : Tujuan dari studi literatur ini adalah untuk mengetahui hubungan tingkat pendidikan, tingkat pengetahuan, dan pekerjaan ibu dengan keaktifan ibu balita ke posyandu. Metode : Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian kepustakaan (library research) atau studi literatur dengan metode dokumentasi dari 9 (sembilan) jurnal yang dikaji. Hasil : Hasil studi literatur menunjukkan bahwa sebagian besar penelitian ada hubungan tingkat pendidikan, tingkat pengetahuan, dan pekerjaan ibu dengan keaktifan ibu balita ke posyandu. Saran: Bagi petugas kesehatan disarankan agar lebih meningkatakan motivasi bagi masyarakat terutama ibu balita agar perkembangan balita dapat terpantau dengan baik dan bagi ibu balita disarankan berpartisipasi aktif mengikuti kegiatan posyandu di wilayah masing-masing sebagai sarana pemantauan pertumbuhan dan perkembangan balita.
Gambaran Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Partisipasi Ibu Balita Ke Pos Pelayanan Terpadu (Posyandu)
Authors: Adhyanti  , Aolia Nuraliafni R. , Nasrul  , Ansar
Published: November 2023

Capaian tingkat partisipasi masyarakat dalam pemanfaatan Posyandu masih rendah dari target nasional 75%. Tujuan penelitian ini mengetahui gambaran faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi partisipasi ibu balita ke Posyandu (D/S) di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Ampana Tete Kabupaten Tojo Una-una. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian deskriptif, jumlah sampel sebanyak 95 orang ibu balita. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan proportional simple random sampling. Pengumpulan data menggunakan teknik wawancara. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada Januari – Februari 2022 di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Ampana Tete. Hasil menunjukan gambaran faktor yang mempengaruhi partisipasi ibu ke posyandu pada desa dengan indikator D/S tidak sesuai target (<75%) dan sesuai target (≥75%) secara berturut turut yaitu umur ibu sebagian besar 20-30 tahun (52,6% dan 42,1%), pendidikan ibu sebagian besar SMA (49,1% dan 21,1%), pekerjaan ibu sebagian besar IRT (73,3% dan 57,9%), jarak rumah ibu ke Posyandu sebagian besar dekat (82,5% dan 100%), dukungan tenaga kesehatan (100% dan 100%), dukungan tokoh masyarakat sebagian besar mendukung (54,4% dan 43,95). Pengetahuan ibu pada desa D/S <75% sebagian besar kurang (52,6%) dan desa D/S ≥75% sebagian besar baik (54,4%), sedangkan dukungan keluarga ibu pada desa D/S <75% sebagian besar kurang (61,4%) dan desa D/S ≥75% sebagian besar baik (33,3%). Kesimpulan bahwa pengetahuan dan dukungan keluarga pada desa dengan capaian D/S >75% cenderung lebih baik dibandingkan dengan desa dengan capaian D/S <75%. Saran agar tenaga Puskesmas Ampana Tete memberikan edukasi pentingnya Posyandu pada ibu dan keluarganya.
Examining the urban regeneration of public cultural space using multi-scale geospatial data: a case study of the historic district in Jinan, China
Authors: Xu Yabing , Tong Hui , Chen Meng , Rollo John , Zhang Ruijie
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Historical-cultural landscapes and urbanscapes integrate regional culture, collective memory, urban patterns, living habits, and other related historical and spatial information, and are important places for expressing the values of urban space. This study analyzes cultural landscapes and urbanscapes from the perspective of spatial values, taking the Baihuazhou historic and cultural district in Jinan as an example to analyze the spatial identification of public cultural space. The significance of this research lies in examining the urban regeneration of public cultural space using multi-scale geospatial data from both an objective and subjective perspective. This methdology is based on a large body of previous literature in relation to cultural heritage, and draws on a comprehensive understanding of the field.

Methods: This study applies spatial syntax, visual graph, and survey analyses, focusing on urban spatial patterns, spatial culture, and spatial memory as heritage values.

Results: The analysis results reveal that historic districts generally do not have good accessibility, predominantly because of the disorganized texture of the buildings and absence of spatial consistency.

Discussion: There should be improved dynamic spatial identification and accessibility in older urban environments and enhancement of local spatial identification memory by increasing sightline accessibility. Based on consideration of values, corresponding suggestions are made from the three perspectives of urban space, cultural landscapes, and local collective memories to provide a reference for the protection of the Baihuazhou historic district and promote the preservation and development of similar heritage spaces.
Morphology-based deep learning approach for predicting adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs)
Authors: Mai Maxwell , Luo Shuai , Fasciano Samantha , Oluwole Timilehin Esther , Ortiz Justin , Pang Yulei , Wang Shue
Published: November 2023

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are multipotent progenitor cells with the potential to differentiate into various cell types, including osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. These cells have been extensively employed in the field of cell-based therapies and regenerative medicine due to their inherent attributes of self-renewal and multipotency. Traditional approaches for assessing hMSCs differentiation capacity have relied heavily on labor-intensive techniques, such as RT-PCR, immunostaining, and Western blot, to identify specific biomarkers. However, these methods are not only time-consuming and economically demanding, but also require the fixation of cells, resulting in the loss of temporal data. Consequently, there is an emerging need for a more efficient and precise approach to predict hMSCs differentiation in live cells, particularly for osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation. In response to this need, we developed innovative approaches that combine live-cell imaging with cutting-edge deep learning techniques, specifically employing a convolutional neural network (CNN) to meticulously classify osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation. Specifically, four notable pre-trained CNN models, VGG 19, Inception V3, ResNet 18, and ResNet 50, were developed and tested for identifying adipogenic and osteogenic differentiated cells based on cell morphology changes. We rigorously evaluated the performance of these four models concerning binary and multi-class classification of differentiated cells at various time intervals, focusing on pivotal metrics such as accuracy, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, precision, and F1-score. Among these four different models, ResNet 50 has proven to be the most effective choice with the highest accuracy (0.9572 for binary, 0.9474 for multi-class) and AUC (0.9958 for binary, 0.9836 for multi-class) in both multi-class and binary classification tasks. Although VGG 19 matched the accuracy of ResNet 50 in both tasks, ResNet 50 consistently outperformed it in terms of AUC, underscoring its superior effectiveness in identifying differentiated cells. Overall, our study demonstrated the capability to use a CNN approach to predict stem cell fate based on morphology changes, which will potentially provide insights for the application of cell-based therapy and advance our understanding of regenerative medicine.
Identification of a large mud volcano field in the Hyuga-nada, northern end of the Ryukyu trench, offshore Japan
Authors: Asada Miho , Yamashita Mikiya , Fukuchi Rina , Yokota Toshiyuki , Toki Tomohiro , Ijiri Akira , Kawamura Kiichiro
Published: November 2023

We identified 27 new mud volcanoes, including potential ones, in a part of the Hyuga-nada area, southwest offshore Japan, at the northern end of the Ryukyu Trench, based on subseafloor geological structures using geophysical investigations. These mud volcanoes exhibited high density and breadth and were likely connected to other mud volcano fields in the south. Acoustic investigations indicated subseafloor structures. Multiple acoustically transparent bodies were interpreted as a region containing gas. They were likely to appear along faults and below the bottom of valleys and sometimes reached the seafloor, expressing mud volcanoes onto the seafloor. They also indicated the wide distribution of subseafloor free-gas throughout the area. These acoustic investigations suggested that a swarm of mud volcanoes exists over the Hyuga-nada area, heterogeneously distributed along a series of plate convergent margins, the Nankai Trough, and the northern part of the Ryukyu Trench.
Association between serum uric acid level and bone mineral density in men more than 50 years of age
Authors: Kim Sujin , Lee Seulki , Kwon Hyuktae
Published: November 2023

Background

The results of previous studies on the association between serum uric acid levels and bone mineral density and the risk of osteoporosis are controversial. Fat free mass (FFM) is more strongly associated with bone mineral density (BMD) than it is with body fat mass (BFM). Skeletal muscle mass is assumed to contribute indirectly to the relationship between serum uric acid levels and BMD. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association between serum uric acid levels and BMD and abnormal BMD (at least osteopenia) by considering body composition in men aged ≥ 50 years.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational cross-sectional study. We used data obtained from 2,991 men aged ≥50 years who completed questionnaires, anthropometric surveys, laboratory tests, and bone mineral density scans. A subgroup analysis of 1,135 men who additionally underwent body composition data analysis using Inbody® was performed. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to explore the relationship between serum uric acid levels and BMD at three sites (L1-L4, Femur neck, Femur total). In addition, multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association of serum uric acid levels with abnormal BMD (at least osteopenia).

Results

Positive correlations between serum uric acid levels and BMD at the three sites (L1-L4, Femur neck, Femur total) were observed in unadjusted and fully adjusted models except the BMD of the femoral neck (P-value=0.054).

Furthermore, FFM and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) showed positive association with serum uric acid level and BMD at three sites, with statistical significance. An increase in serum uric acid level was associated with a lower risk of abnormal BMD after adjusting for confounders including FFM and SMI.

Conclusion

Serum uric acid level was positively associated with BMD at three sites and had a protective effect against abnormal BMD after adjusting for multiple confounders, including FFM and SMI, in men aged ≥ 50 years.
Harnessing the power of nutritional antioxidants against adrenal hormone imbalance-associated oxidative stress
Authors: Patani Anil , Balram Deepak , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Lian Kuang-Yow , Patel Ashish , Sahoo Dipak Kumar
Published: November 2023

Oxidative stress, resulting from dysregulation in the secretion of adrenal hormones, represents a major concern in human health. The present review comprehensively examines various categories of endocrine dysregulation within the adrenal glands, encompassing glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgens. Additionally, a comprehensive account of adrenal hormone disorders, including adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s syndrome, and adrenal tumors, is presented, with particular emphasis on their intricate association with oxidative stress. The review also delves into an examination of various nutritional antioxidants, namely vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, selenium, zinc, polyphenols, coenzyme Q10, and probiotics, and elucidates their role in mitigating the adverse effects of oxidative stress arising from imbalances in adrenal hormone levels. In conclusion, harnessing the power of nutritional antioxidants has the potential to help with oxidative stress caused by an imbalance in adrenal hormones. This could lead to new research and therapeutic interventions.
The obesogenic side of Genistein
Authors: Xiang Jia , Mlambo Ronald , Dube Progress , Machona Oleen , Shaw Ibrahim , Seid Yimer , He Yongju , Luo Min , Hong Tingting , He Binsheng , Zhou Wenhu , Tan Songwen
Published: November 2023

Genistein (GN) has been highly recommended for its medicinal properties like anticancer, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antiviral, and antioxidant activities among others. Recently, scientists realized that Genistein is an endocrine disruptor. It is an obesogen that interferes with the endocrine system causing obesity through many mechanisms like inducing adipocyte differentiation, lipid accumulation, and transformation of some stem cells into adipocytes (bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells for example) in vitro. Animal studies show that GN upregulates genes associated with adipogenesis like CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (Cebpα), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein beta (Cebpβ), and PPARγ. In silico studies reveal a strong binding affinity for estrogen receptors. All these findings were contingent on concentration and tissues. It is beyond dispute that obesity is one of the most frustrating medical conditions under the sun. The pathophysiology of this disease was first attributed to a high-calorie diet and lack of physical activity. However, studies proved that these two factors are not enough to account for obesity in both children and adults. This mini review highlights how Genistein interaction with the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma protein can cause obesity.
Impact of conservation practices on soil quality and ecosystem services under diverse horticulture land use system
Authors: Rathore Avinash Chandra , Singh Charan , Jayaprakash J. , Gupta Anand Kumar , Doharey Vijay Kumar , Jinger Dinesh , Singh Deepak , Yadav Devideen , Barh Anupam , Islam Sadikul , Ghosh Avijit , Kadam Darshan , Paramesh Venkatesh , Jhajhria Abimanyu , Singhal Vibha , Pal Rama , Madhu M.
Published: November 2023

The 20-year study investigated the effects of conservation practices (CPs) and farmers' practices (FPs) on various soil quality parameters, yield, and economics of horticultural land use systems. CPs demonstrated significant improvements in soil organic carbon (SOC), available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), compared to FPs. Horticultural systems exhibited higher SOC and available N and P contents than FPs, with substantial variations among different fruit species. CPs also enhanced soil quality index, functional diversity, culturable microbial populations, enzyme activity, and soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) compared to FPs. It was observed that the SMBC values were 25.0–36.6% and 4.12–25.7% higher in 0–15 cm and 15–30 cm, respectively, under CPs compared to FPs for all the land use systems. In CPs, dehydrogenase activities (DHAs) in surface soils were 9.30 and 7.50 times higher under mango- and citrus-based horticultural systems compared to FPs. The CPs adopted in aonla, guava, mango, litchi, and citrus-based horticultural systems increased SOC by ~27.6, 32.6, 24.4, 26.8, and 22.0%, respectively, over FPs. Canopy spread, fruit yield, litter yield, and soil moisture were significantly higher in fruit-based horticultural systems under CPs. Economic viability analysis indicated higher net present values (NPVs), benefit-cost ratio (BCR), and shorter payback periods (PBPs) for horticultural land use systems under CPs. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that CPs had a more positive influence on soil parameters, particularly DHA, acid and alkali phosphatase activity, available N, P, and K contents, soil microbial load, and organic carbon. The maximum ecosystem services were contributed through mango-based land uses among all land uses. Mango-based horticultural systems exhibited the least impact from both CPs and FPs, while peach-based systems were most affected by CPs. Overall, the findings highlight the benefits of conservation practices in improving soil quality, microbial populations, enzyme activity, and crop productivity in horticultural systems.
Disrespect and abuse during childbirth in East Hararghe Zone public health facilities, eastern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Usso Ahmedin Aliyi , Adem Hassen Abdi , Alemu Addisu , Mohammed Aminu
Published: November 2023

Background

Compassionate and respectful maternity care during childbirth has been identified as a potential strategy to prevent and reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. Despite its importance, there is a paucity of information on the level of disrespect and abuse meted out to mothers in eastern Ethiopia. This study assesses the level of disrespect and abuse suffered by women during childbirth, and the associated factors, in public health facilities in the rural East Hararghe Zone in eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 530 women who gave birth in 20 public health facilities in the East Hararghe Zone during the period between 1 April and 30 April 2020. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were employed to identify the factors associated with disrespect and abuse during childbirth. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) (95% CI) was used to report this association, and statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

Overall, 77% (95% CI: 73%–81%) of women reported at least one type of disrespect and abuse during childbirth in the East Hararghe Zone public health facilities. In this study, factors such as households having an average monthly income of below 57.22 USD (AOR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.41–3.71), mothers residing at more than 30 min away from a nearby health facility (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.30–3.39), those not receiving antenatal care (AOR = 4.29, 95% CI: 2.17–8.52), and those giving birth during nighttime (AOR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.37–3.41) were associated with at least one type of disrespect and abuse during childbirth.

Conclusion

More than three in every four women who gave birth in the East Hararghe Zone public health facilities were disrespected and abused during childbirth. Encouraging all pregnant women to pay attention to antenatal care visits and improving the quality of healthcare service during nighttime in all health facilities will be essential for preventing and reducing disrespect and abuse and its negative consequences.
A novel anti-galectin-9 immunotherapy limits the early progression of pancreatic neoplastic lesions in transgenic mice
Authors: Quilbe Alexandre , Mustapha Rami , Duchêne Belinda , Kumar Abhishek , Werkmeister Elisabeth , Leteurtre Emmanuelle , Moralès Olivier , Jonckheere Nicolas , Van Seuningen Isabelle , Delhem Nadira
Published: November 2023

Background

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease with an urgent need for therapeutic innovation. Immune checkpoint inhibition has shown promise in a variety of solid tumors, but most clinical trials have failed to demonstrate clinical efficacy in PDAC. This low efficacy is partly explained by a highly immunosuppressive microenvironment, which dampens anti-tumor immunity through the recruitment or induction of immunosuppressive cells, particularly regulatory T cells (Tregs). In this context, our laboratory has developed a novel immunotherapeutic strategy aimed at inhibiting the suppressive activity of Tregs, based on a patented (EP3152234B1) monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting galectin-9 (LGALS9).

Materials and methods

CD4+ conventional T cells (TCD4 or Tconv), Treg ratio, and LGALS9 expression were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and cytometry in blood and pancreas of K-rasLSL.G12D/+;Pdx-1-Cre (KC) and K-rasWildType (WT);Pdx1-Cre (WT) mice aged 4–13 months. Pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasm (PanIN) progression and grade were quantified using FIJI software and validated by pathologists. The anti-galectin-9 mAb was validated for its use in mice on isolated murine C57BL/6 Treg by immunofluorescence staining and cytometry. Its specificity and functionality were validated in proliferation assays on rLGALS9-immunosuppressed murine Tconv and in suppression assays between murine Treg and Tconv. Finally, 2-month-old KC mice were treated with anti-LGALS9 and compared to WT mice for peripheral and infiltrating TCD4, Treg, and PanIN progression.

Results

IHC and cytometry revealed a significant increase in LGALS9 expression and Treg levels in the blood and pancreas of KC mice proportional to the stages of precancerous lesions. Although present in WT mice, LGALS9 is expressed at a basal level with low and restricted expression that increases slightly over time, while Treg cells are few in number in their circulation and even absent from the pancreas over time. Using our anti-LGALS9 mAb in mice, it is shown that (i) murine Treg express LGALS9, (ii) the mAb could target and inhibit recombinant murine LGALS9, and (iii) neutralize murine Treg suppressive activity. Finally, the anti-LGALS9 mAb in KC mice reduced (i) LGALS9 expression in pancreatic cancer cells, (ii) the Treg ratio, and (iii) the total surface area and grade of PanIN.

Conclusion

We demonstrate for the first time that an anti-LGALS9 antibody, by specifically targeting endogenous LGALS9 tumor and exogenous LGALS9 produced by Treg, was able to limit the progression of pancreatic neoplastic lesions in mice, opening up new prospects for its use as an immunotherapeutic tool in PDAC.
Challenges of fully online learning for dermatology education: a retrospective study
Authors: Meng Yunfang , Sun Mingxia , Guo Jing , Jiao Jing , Dang Ningning
Published: November 2023

Background

Blended learning has proven to be an effective teaching strategy. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, educational institutions worldwide switched to online learning. However, there is limited research on the effectiveness of blended learning and fully online learning. This study aims to evaluate and compare whether pure online learning is as effective as traditional blended learning by taking the example of dermatology education.

Methods

The researchers compared traditional blended learning and fully online learning by evaluating the achievement scores of undergraduate students in a dermatology course in the academic years 2019 and 2020, respectively, at the Shandong First Medical University, China. In 2019, students undertook small private online courses (SPOCs) combined with face-to-face teacher-led learning. In 2020, live teacher-led learning replaced face-to-face teacher-led learning. The researchers also conducted a questionnaire survey in 2020.

Results

The scores of students in 2019 were significantly higher than in 2020 (p = 0.002). There was no significant difference in the distribution of achievement variance in the scores between the two academic years. In the questionnaire survey, the majority of the students rated highly the fully online education mode and responded that pure online learning enhanced their self-study ability.

Conclusion

The present study shows that fully online learning currently does not perform as well as traditional blended learning in terms of examination scores due to some limitations. However, pure online education has several advantages over traditional blended education. Online courses should be improved to ignite students’ interest and increase their learning efficiency.
High risk HPV-positive women cervicovaginal microbial profiles in a Greek cohort: a retrospective analysis of the GRECOSELF study
Authors: Sofou Electra , Gkoliou Glykeria , Pechlivanis Nikolaos , Pasentsis Konstantinos , Chatzistamatiou Kimon , Psomopoulos Fotis , Agorastos Theodoros , Stamatopoulos Kostas
Published: November 2023

Increasing evidence supports a role for the vaginal microbiome (VM) in the severity of HPV infection and its potential link to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. However, a lot remains unclear regarding the precise role of certain bacteria in the context of HPV positivity and persistence of infection. Here, using next generation sequencing (NGS), we comprehensively profiled the VM in a series of 877 women who tested positive for at least one high risk HPV (hrHPV) type with the COBAS® 4,800 assay, after self-collection of a cervico-vaginal sample. Starting from gDNA, we PCR amplified the V3–V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene and applied a paired-end NGS protocol (Illumina). We report significant differences in the abundance of certain bacteria compared among different HPV-types, more particularly concerning species assigned to Lacticaseibacillus, Megasphaera and Sneathia genera. Especially for Lacticaseibacillus, we observed significant depletion in the case of HPV16, HPV18 versus hrHPVother. Overall, our results suggest that the presence or absence of specific cervicovaginal microbial genera may be linked to the observed severity in hrHPV infection, particularly in the case of HPV16, 18 types.
Disturbed laterality of non-rapid eye movement sleep oscillations in post-stroke human sleep: a pilot study
Authors: Simpson Benjamin K. , Rangwani Rohit , Abbasi Aamir , Chung Jeffrey M. , Reed Chrystal M. , Gulati Tanuj
Published: November 2023

Sleep is known to promote recovery post-stroke. However, there is a paucity of data profiling sleep oscillations in the post-stroke human brain. Recent rodent work showed that resurgence of physiologic spindles coupled to sleep slow oscillations (SOs) and concomitant decrease in pathological delta (δ) waves is associated with sustained motor performance gains during stroke recovery. The goal of this study was to evaluate bilaterality of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep-oscillations (namely SOs, δ-waves, spindles, and their nesting) in post-stroke patients vs. healthy control subjects. We analyzed NREM-marked electroencephalography (EEG) data in hospitalized stroke-patients (n = 5) and healthy subjects (n = 3). We used a laterality index to evaluate symmetry of NREM oscillations across hemispheres. We found that stroke subjects had pronounced asymmetry in the oscillations, with a predominance of SOs, δ-waves, spindles, and nested spindles in affected hemisphere, when compared to the healthy subjects. Recent preclinical work classified SO-nested spindles as restorative post-stroke and δ-wave-nested spindles as pathological. We found that the ratio of SO-nested spindles laterality index to δ-wave-nested spindles laterality index was lower in stroke subjects. Using linear mixed models (which included random effects of concurrent pharmacologic drugs), we found large and medium effect size for δ-wave nested spindle and SO-nested spindle, respectively. Our results in this pilot study indicate that considering laterality index of NREM oscillations might be a useful metric for assessing recovery post-stroke and that factoring in pharmacologic drugs may be important when targeting sleep modulation for neurorehabilitation post-stroke.
Caregivers’ socio-cultural influences on health-seeking behavior for their wasted children among forcibly displaced Myanmar Nationals and their nearest host communities
Authors: Naila Nurun Nahar , Islam Md. Munirul , Alam Aklima , Karmakar Gobinda , Mahfuz Mustafa , Mostafa Ishita , Sharmin Farhana , Manir Mohammad Zahidul , Sari Mayang , Ahmed Tahmeed , Rahman Mahfuzur
Published: November 2023

Introduction

A total of 19% of forcibly displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMNs) Bangladesh fall within the age range of under five years old, while an average of 1% exhibit severe malnutrition. Cox’s Bazar is the closest host community for FDMNs, with similar traditional culture and religion and shared linguistic, ethnic, and cultural ties.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted to investigate the impact of socio-cultural factors on the healthcare-seeking behavior of caregivers of critically malnourished children in FDMN camps and neighboring host communities.

Results

The utilization of informal healthcare by caregivers in both populations can be attributed to cultural attitudes, taboos, and peer pressure. The healthcare by practices in the FDMN camps and host towns were primarily affected by household responsibilities, familial assistance in accessing medical services, decisions made by husbands or mothers-in-law, and the availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities. Certain features were identified that prompt caregivers to seek formal treatment in both groups. The efficacy of the treatment was a primary consideration. In instances where conventional remedies and informal treatments proved ineffective in restoring the health of children, others who were invested in their well-being, such as family members and neighbors, advised caretakers to pursue professional medical care.

Discussion

Enhanced caregiver awareness of severe wasting, enhanced healthcare accessibility, and increased community volunteer engagement have the potential to facilitate early identification of severely wasted children and mitigate delays in treatment.
Outcome and treatment-related adverse events of combined immune checkpoint inhibition with flipped dosing in a real-world cohort of 79 patients with metastasized melanoma
Authors: Nübel Charlotte , Amaral Teresa , Leiter Ulrike , Flatz Lukas , Forschner Andrea
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Combined immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) with ipilimumab and nivolumab is a widely used treatment regimen for metastatic melanoma with non-resectable metastases. Nevertheless, the standard dose of ipilimumab 3 mg/kg bw and nivolumab 1 mg/kg bw is associated with a high rate of treatment-related adverse events (trAEs) (59% grade 3–4). In the CheckMate 511 study, it could be shown that flipped dosing with ipilimumab 1 mg/kg bw and nivolumab 3 mg/kg bw resulted in a significant reduction of trAE.

Methods

We have also used this regimen in the clinical setting and report the trAE, progression-free survival, and overall survival for 79 patients with metastatic melanoma who started combined ICI in the flipped dosing between March 2019 and April 2020.

Results

in total, 40 patients started first-line, 50% of whom had an elevated lactate dehydrogenase level at baseline. The disease control rate of these patients was 50%. The 2-year overall survival rate 67%. Moreover, 33% of the patients suffered grade 3 or 4 treatment related adverse events.

Discussion

The results of our study correspond very well to the results of the CheckMate 511 study (2-year OS: 65%, grade 3-4 immune-related side effects: 35%). Combined ICI with ipilimumab 1 mg/kg bw and nivolumab 3 mg/kg bw seems to be an equally effective but better-tolerated therapy regimen for metastasized melanoma patients, also in a real-world cohort.
Treatment for a primary multidrug-resistant B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia patient carrying a SSBP2-CSF1R fusion gene: a case report
Authors: Wang Huan , Wang Yujiao , Hao Liangchun , Liu Xuan , Zhang Jihong , Yao Pin , Liu Danping , Wang Runan
Published: November 2023

SSBP2-CSF1R is an important biomarker for clinical diagnosis and prognosis of Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-like ALL). This case report presents a pediatric Ph-like ALL patient carrying the SSBP2-CSF1R fusion gene. The patient was resistant to most conventional chemotherapy regimens and to dasatinib, an inhibitor that has been reported to have a therapeutic effect on SSBP2-CSF1R fusion Ph-like ALL, as she remained minimal residual disease (MRD) positive (detection by flow cytometry) and SSBP2-CSF1R fusion gene (detection by RT-PCR) positive after five rounds of such regimens. We thus conducted a large-scale in vitro screening to assess the sensitivity of the patient’s leukemic cells to anti-cancer drugs. Based on the susceptibility results, we chose to combine cytarabine, homoharringtonine, dexamethasone, fludarabine, vindesine, and epirubicin for treatment. Clinical results showed that after a course of treatment, both MRD and SSBP2-CSF1R fusion gene turned negative, and there was no recurrence during an 18-month follow-up. In conclusion, our study suggests that the SSBP2-CSF1R fusion gene may be an important biomarker of primary drug resistance in Ph-like ALL, and indicate that the combination of cytarabine, homoharringtonine, dexamethasone, fludarabine, vindesine, and epirubicin can achieve optimal therapeutic results in this category of patients.
Incidence trends in prostate cancer among men in the United States from 2000 to 2020 by race and ethnicity, age and tumor stage
Authors: Du Xianglin L. , Gao Daoqi , Li Zhuoyun
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To explore whether prostate cancer incidence trends from 2000 to 2020 in the United States differed by race and ethnicity, age and tumor stage; to explore racial differences in prostate cancer incidence change due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in 2020; and to determine if there is any high-risk population that can be targeted for prevention.

Methods

We identified 1,098,349 men who were diagnosed with incident prostate cancer at age ≥20 in 2000-2020 in 17 registries of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program in the United States; of whom, 778,437 were non-Hispanic whites, 155,111 non-Hispanic blacks, 4,200 American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIAN), 55,267 non-Hispanic Asians/Pacific Islanders, and 105,334 Hispanics.

Results

Age-adjusted incidence rate of prostate cancer was the highest in blacks (302.6 cases per 100,000 men), followed by whites (186.6), Hispanics (153.2), AIAN (108.5), and Asians (104.9). Age-adjusted prostate cancer incidence rates dramatically decreased from 2000 to 2013 for all ethnic men. However, age-adjusted prostate cancer incidence rates increased from 2014 to 2020, in which the increasing incidence trend looked sharper in blacks and whites, flatter in Asians, and leveled in AIAN and Hispanics. Among men with local or regional stages across all years, prostate cancer incidence rate was significantly higher in blacks, but significantly lower in Hispanics, AIAN, and Asians as compared to whites. Among men in 2007-2013, the risk of distant stage prostate cancer was statistically significantly elevated in blacks (rate-ratio: 2.22, 95% CI: 2.06-2.38) and Hispanics (1.16, 1.06-1.25), not significantly different in AIAN (1.30, 0.92-1.76), but still significantly lower in Asians (0.73, 0.66-0.82) as compared to whites. There was a drop of prostate cancer incidence from 2019 to 2020 likely due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on the access to medical care in 2020. Overall prostate cancer incidence rate decreased by 40.4 cases per 100,000 population from 277.4 in 2019 to 237.0 in 2020 for blacks, 20.9 from 164.2 to 143.3 for whites, 16.8 from 124.8 to 108.0 for Hispanics, 14.9 from 101.7 to 86.8 for AIAN, and 12.6 from 88.4 to 75.8 for Asians.

Conclusion

The decreasing trend of prostate cancer incidence from 2000 to 2013 was statistically significant for all ethnic men. There was an increasing prostate cancer incidence from 2014 to 2020. Age-adjusted incidence rate of prostate cancer was the highest in blacks, followed by whites, Hispanics, AIAN, and Asians, regardless of age groups, tumor stages, and time periods. There will also be a need to monitor and investigate the prostate cancer incidence trend during and after COVID-19 pandemic season.
Unraveling plant adaptation to nitrogen limitation from enzyme stoichiometry aspect in Karst soils: a case study of Rhododendron Pudingense
Authors: Wang Haodong , Huang Baoxian , Zhao Hongjiu , Dai Xiaoyong , Chen Meng , Ding Fangjun , Wu Peng , Hao Lei , Yang Rui , Yuan Congjun
Published: November 2023

Enzyme stoichiometry can reflect the resource limitation of soil microbial metabolism, and research on the relationships between plants and resource limitation in Karst Microhabitats is scarcely investigated. To clarify the extracellular enzyme stoichiometry characteristics in soil across different karst microhabitats and how the Rhododendron pudingense adapts to nutrient restrictions, plot investigation experiments were set up in Zhenning County, Qinglong County, and Wangmo County of Guizhou Province which included total three karst microhabitats, i.e., soil surface (SS), rock gully (RG), and rock surface (RS), by analyzing he rhizosphere soil nutrient, extracellular enzyme activity, and nutrient content of R. pudingense. The findings indicated that all karst microenvironments experienced varying levels of nitrogen (N) limitation, with the order of N limitation being as follows: SS > RG > RS. Notably, there were significant discrepancies in N content among different plant organs (p< 0.05), with the sequence of N content as follows: leaf > stem > root. However, no significant differences were observed in nutrient content within the same organ across different microenvironments (p > 0.05). A noteworthy discovery was the significant allometric growth relationship between C-P in various organs (p< 0.05), while roots and stems exhibited a significant allometric growth relationship between N-P (p< 0.05). The study highlighted the substantial impact of Total Nitrogen (TN) and N-acquiring enzymes (NAE) on nutrient allocation within the components of R. pudingense. Overall, the research demonstrated that N was the primary limiting factor in the study area’s soil, and R. pudingense’s nutrient allocation strategy was closely associated with N limitations in the karst microenvironment. Specifically, the plant prioritized allocating its limited N resources to its leaves, ensuring its survival. This investigation provided valuable insights into how plants adapt to nutrient restrictions and offered a deeper understanding of soil-plant interactions in karst ecosystems.
Personality, negative affectivity and emotional intelligence: gender-differentiated relationships with physical exercise
Authors: Campos-Uscanga Yolanda , Argüelles-Nava Vianey , Mejia-Castillo Aurora , Barradas-Landa Rosa Maribel , Rosas-Campos Kassandra , Narave-Moreno Mirei
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Physical exercise is one of the most relevant lifestyle choices for the prevention of diseases; however, participation in this type of activity remains low. Therefore, it is necessary to deepen the understanding of related psychological factors in men and women.

Objective

To determine whether personality traits, emotional intelligence and negative affective are differentially related to physical exercise characteristics in men and women.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 579 physically active people (61.1% men) between 18 and 59 years of age. The Big Five Inventory (BFI-15p), Brief Emotional Intelligence Scale (EQ-i-M20), and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were used.

Results

Compared with men, women exercised fewer days and minutes per week, had fewer years of participation and performed fewer different physical exercises. On the emotional intelligence scale, compared with men, women showed less stress management, adaptability and general mood but greater interpersonal intelligence. With regard to personality traits, compared with men, women showed greater openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and neuroticism. In males, heightened levels of general mood and extraversion were associated to a lasting commitment to physical exercise over time. Conversely, in females, depression was negatively associated with the years dedicated to physical exercise.

Conclusion

Distinct approaches are essential for men and women, acknowledging the varied ways psychological factors are linked to physical exercise based on gender.
The impact of childhood maltreatment on aggression, criminal risk factors, and treatment trajectories in forensic psychiatric patients
Authors: Koolschijn Marijtje , Janković Marija , Bogaerts Stefan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Children’s development into healthy well-functioning adults can be negatively affected by adversity. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been shown to lead to a variety of poor life outcomes, ranging from mental health problems (e.g., anxiety or suicidality) through problematic health behaviors to serious physical diseases and even early death. ACEs can also make people more prone to aggressive behavior, criminality, and recidivism. In this study, we investigated the association between ACEs, specifically childhood maltreatment (CM), and forensically relevant factors; aggression, criminal risk factors, and treatment trajectories, as little is known about these associations in forensic psychiatric patients.

Methods

The study includes data derived from two studies in The Netherlands, of which the first study enrolled 128 patients residing in a Forensic Psychiatric Center (FPC) and the second study included 468 patients who were released unconditionally from FPCs between 2009 and 2013. We expected that more CM would be correlated with higher levels of aggression, higher clinical risk factor scores, and less decrease in clinical risk factor scores over time. To investigate this, we applied correlational analyses and linear growth curve modeling on risk assessment scores and self-report as well as staff report questionnaires on CM and aggression.

Results

Consistent with our first hypothesis, patients with higher CM scores also had higher aggression and risk assessment scores. The effect sizes were small to medium (0.12 to 0.34). Unexpectedly, CM did not influence the course of these treatment trajectories, however, we found that patients with histories of CM had a significantly longer length of stay in a forensic facility than patients without CM (respectively, 10.8 years and 9.3 years on average).

Discussion

This study underlines the importance of carefully examining the history of ACEs and CM in forensic psychiatric patients and considering this in forensic risk assessment and risk guided treatment. More research is needed to draw conclusions about whether and how histories of ACEs should be considered and targeted during treatment trajectories.
Exploring Zentangle as a virtual mindfulness-based art intervention for people with serious mental illness
Authors: Stojcevski Marko , Cheung Amy , Agwu Victor , Fan Xiaoduo
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Zentangle is an emerging art intervention that incorporates mindfulness into creative drawing. This pilot study explored Zentangle as a novel adjunct treatment for people with serious mental illness (SMI).

Methods

Six participants with SMI completed an 8-week Zentangle program. Psychiatric outcomes were evaluated using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Scale (Q-LES-Q-SF). A focus group was conducted to better understand the experiences of the participants.

Results

A significant reduction in psychiatric symptoms was observed as measured by the total score on the BPRS between baseline and 5-week post-intervention (40.7 ± 9.1 vs. 33.7 ± 8.9, mean ± SD, p = 0.02). Participants also showed a significant increase in mindful attention using the average score on the MAAS between 1- and 5-week post-intervention (3.5 ± 0.4 vs. 4.2 ± 0.7, mean ± SD, p = 0.04). Four themes were generated from the focus group: (1) approaching mindfulness through Zentangle; (2) power of uncomplicated art creation; (3) understanding the value of self-appreciation; and (4) fostering a positive environment.

Discussion

Our preliminary data suggest that the use of Zentangle for participants with SMI may have a positive impact on overall psychiatric symptoms and mindfulness. Moreover, the Zentangle Method encourages positive emotions like gratitude and self-accomplishment to counteract negative feelings of self-criticism and failure in participants.