bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual cortex repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) reversing neurodevelopmental impairments in adolescents with major psychiatric disorders (MPDs): A cross‐species translational study
Authors: Liu Juan , Guo Huiling , Yang Jingyu , Xiao Yao , Cai Aoling , Zhao Tongtong , Womer Fay Y. , Zhao Pengfei , Zheng Junjie , Zhang Xizhe , Wang Jie , Zhu Rongxin , Wang Fei
Published: September 2023

Aims

Neurodevelopmental impairments are closely linked to the basis of adolescent major psychiatric disorders (MPDs). The visual cortex can regulate neuroplasticity throughout the brain during critical periods of neurodevelopment, which may provide a promising target for neuromodulation therapy. This cross‐species translational study examined the effects of visual cortex repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on neurodevelopmental impairments in MPDs.

Methods

Visual cortex rTMS was performed in both adolescent methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) rats and patients with MPDs. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and brain tissue proteomic data in rats and fMRI and clinical symptom data in patients were analyzed.

Results

The regional homogeneity (ReHo) analysis of fMRI data revealed an increase in the frontal cortex and a decrease in the posterior cortex in the MAM rats, representing the abnormal neurodevelopmental pattern in MPDs. In regard to the effects of rTMS, similar neuroimaging changes, particularly reduced frontal ReHo, were found both in MAM rats and adolescent patients, suggesting that rTMS may reverse the abnormal neurodevelopmental pattern. Proteomic analysis revealed that rTMS modulated frontal synapse‐associated proteins, which may be the underpinnings of rTMS efficacy. Furthermore, a positive relationship was observed between frontal ReHo and clinical symptoms after rTMS in patients.

Conclusion

Visual cortex rTMS was proven to be an effective treatment for adolescent MPDs, and the underlying neural and molecular mechanisms were uncovered. Our study provides translational evidence for therapeutics targeting the neurodevelopmental factor in MPDs.
Association of serum occludin levels and perihematomal edema volumes in intracranial hemorrhage patients
Authors: Yuan Shuhua , Ma Qingfeng , Hou Chengbei , Zhao Yue , Liu Ke Jian , Ji Xunming , Qi Zhifeng
Published: September 2023

Background and Purpose

Perihematomal edema (PHE) is one of the severe secondary damages following intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Studies showed that blood–brain barrier (BBB) injury contributes to the development of PHE. Previous studies showed that occludin protein is a potential biomarker of BBB injury. In the present study, we investigated whether the levels of serum occludin on admission are associated with PHE volumes in ICH patients.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 90ICH patients and 32 healthy controls.The volumes of hematoma and PHE were assessed using non‐contrast cranial CT within 30 min of admission. Blood samples were drawn on admission, and the levels of baseline serum occludin were detected using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Partial correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were performed to evaluate the association between serum occludin levels and PHE volumes in ICH patients.

Results

The serum occludin levels in ICH patients were much higher than health controls (median 0.27 vs. 0.13 ng/mL, p < 0.001). At admission, 34 ICH patients (37.78%) had experienced a severe PHE (≥30 mL), and their serum occludin levels were higher compared to those with mild PHE (<30 mL) (0.78 vs. 0.21 ng/mL, p < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC) of serum occludin level in predicting severe PHE was 0.747 (95% confidence interval CI 0.644–0.832, p < 0.001). There was a significant positive correlation between serum occludin levels and PHE volumes (partial correlation r = 0.675, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that serum occludin levels remained independently associated with the PHE volumes after adjusting other confounding factors.

Conclusion

The present study showed that serum occludin levels at admission were independently correlated with PHE volumes in ICH patients, which may provide a biomarker indicating PHE volume change.
Role of TRPV1 in electroacupuncture‐mediated signal to the primary sensory cortex during regulation of the swallowing function
Authors: Yuan Si , Qiu Bo , Liang Ying , Deng Bing , Xu Jing , Tang Xiaorong , Wu Junshang , Zhou Sheng , Li Zeli , Li Hongzhu , Ye Qiuping , Wang Lin , Cui Shuai , Tang Chunzhi , Yi Wei , Yao Lulu , Xu Nenggui
Published: September 2023

Aims

Electroacupuncture (EA) at the Lianquan (CV23) could alleviate swallowing dysfunction. However, current knowledge of its neural modulation focused on the brain, with little evidence from the periphery. Transient receptor potential channel vanilloid subfamily 1 (TRPV1) is an ion channel predominantly expressed in sensory neurons, and acupuncture can trigger calcium ion (Ca2+) wave propagation through active TRPV1 to deliver signals. The present study aimed to investigate whether TRPV1 mediated the signal of EA to the primary sensory cortex (S1) during regulation of swallowing function.

Methods

Blood perfusion was evaluated by laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), and neuronal activity was evaluated by fiber calcium recording and c‐Fos staining. The expression of TRPV1 was detected by RNA‐seq analysis, immunofluorescence, and ELISA. In addition, the swallowing function was assessed by in vivo EMG recording and water consumption test.

Results

EA treatment potentiated blood perfusion and neuronal activity in the S1, and this potentiation was absent after injecting lidocaine near CV23. TRPV1 near CV23 was upregulated by EA‐CV23. The blood perfusion at CV23 was decreased in the TRPV1 hypofunction mice, while the blood perfusion and the neuronal activity of the S1 showed no obvious change. These findings were also present in post‐stroke dysphagia (PSD) mice.

Conclusion

The TRPV1 at CV23 after EA treatment might play a key role in mediating local blood perfusion but was not involved in transferring EA signals to the central nervous system (CNS). These findings collectively suggested that TRPV1 may be one of the important regulators involved in the mechanism of EA treatment for improving swallowing function in PSD.
Distinct serum GDNF coupling with brain structural and functional changes underlies cognitive status in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Tang Chuanxi , Sun Ruiao , Xue Ke , Wang Mengying , Liang Sijie , Kambey Piniel Alphayo , Shi Mingyu , Wu Changyu , Chen Gang , Gao Dianshuai
Published: September 2023

Aim

Aberrations in brain connections are implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). We previously demonstrated that Glial cell‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) reduction is associated with cognition decline. Nonetheless, it is elusive if the pattern of brain topological connectivity differed across PD with divergent serum GDNF levels, and the accompanying profile of cognitive deficits has yet to be determined.

Methods

We collected data on the participants' cognition, demographics, and serum GDNF levels. Participants underwent 3.0T magnetic resonance imaging, and we assessed the degree centrality, brain network topology, and cortical thickness of the healthy control (HC) (n = 25), PD‐high‐GDNF (n = 19), and PD‐low‐GDNF (n = 19) groups using graph‐theoretic measures of resting‐state functional MRI to reveal how much brain connectivity varies and its clinical correlates, as well as to determine factors predicting the cognitive status in PD.

Results

The results show different network properties between groups. Degree centrality abnormalities were found in the right inferior frontal gyrus and right parietal lobe postcentral gyrus, linked with cognition scores. The two aberrant clusters serve as a potentially powerful signal for determining whether a patient has PD and the patient's cognition level after integrating with GDNF, duration, and dopamine dosage. Moreover, we found a significant positive relationship between the thickness of the left caudal middle frontal lobe and a plethora of cognitive domains. Further discriminant analysis revealed that the cortical thickness of this region could distinguish PD patients from healthy controls. The mental state evaluation will also be more precise when paired with GDNF and duration.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal that the topological features of brain networks and cortical thickness are altered in PD patients with cognitive deficits. The above change, accompanied by the serum GDNF, may have merit as a diagnosis marker for PD and, arguably, cognition status.
Neurophysiological characterization of stroke recovery: A longitudinal TMS and EEG study
Authors: Ding Qian , Chen Jixiang , Zhang Shunxi , Chen Songbin , Li Xiaotong , Peng Yuan , Chen Yujie , Chen Junhui , Chen Kang , Cai Guiyuan , Xu Guangqing , Lan Yue
Published: September 2023

Aims

Understanding the neural mechanisms underlying stroke recovery is critical to determine effective interventions for stroke rehabilitation. This study aims to systematically explore how recovery mechanisms post‐stroke differ between individuals with different levels of functional integrity of the ipsilesional corticomotor pathway and motor function.

Methods

Eighty‐one stroke survivors and 15 age‐matched healthy adults participated in this study. We used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), electroencephalography (EEG), and concurrent TMS‐EEG to investigate longitudinal neurophysiological changes post‐stroke, and their relationship with behavioral changes. Subgroup analysis was performed based on the presence of paretic motor evoked potentials and motor function.

Results

Functional connectivity was increased dramatically in low‐functioning individuals without elicitable motor evoked potentials (MEPs), which showed a positive effect on motor recovery. Functional connectivity was increased gradually in higher‐functioning individuals without elicitable MEP during stroke recovery and influence from the contralesional hemisphere played a key role in motor recovery. In individuals with elicitable MEPs, negative correlations between interhemispheric functional connectivity and motor function suggest that the influence from the contralesional hemisphere may be detrimental to motor recovery.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate prominent clinical implications for individualized stroke rehabilitation based on both functional integrity of the ipsilesional corticomotor pathway and motor function.
SERPINA3: A novel inflammatory biomarker associated with cerebral small vessel disease burden in ischemic stroke
Authors: Hu Xiao , Xiao Zhong‐Song , Shen Yi‐Qing , Yang Wen‐Song , Wang Peng , Li Pei‐Zheng , Wang Zi‐Jie , Pu Ming‐Jun , Zhao Li‐Bo , Xie Peng , Li Qi
Published: September 2023

Background and Objective

Inflammation has emerged as a prominent risk factor for cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). However, the specific association between various inflammatory biomarkers and the development of CSVD remains unclear. Serine proteinase inhibitor A3 (SERPINA3), Matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9), Tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1), Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein‐1 (MCP‐1) are several inflammatory biomarkers that are potentially involved in the development of CSVD. In this present study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between candidate molecules and CSVD features.

Method

The concentration of each biomarker was measured in 79 acute ischemic stroke patients admitted within 72 h after symptom onset. The associations between blood levels of inflammatory markers and CSVD score were investigated, as well as each CSVD feature, including white matter hyperintensities (WMH), lacunes, and enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS).

Results

The mean age was 69.0 ± 11.8 years, and 65.8% of participants were male. Higher SERPINA3 level (>78.90 ng/mL) was significantly associated with larger WMH volume and higher scores on Fazekas's scale in all three models. Multiple regression analyses revealed the linear association between absolute WMH burden and SERPINA3 level, especially in model 3 (β = 0.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04–0.24p ). Restricted cubic spline regression demonstrated a dose–response relationship between SERPINA3 level and larger WMH volume (p nonlineariy = 0.0366 and 0.0378 in model 2 and mode 3, respectively). Using a receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve, plasma SERPINA3 level of 64.15 ng/mL distinguished WMH >7.8 mL with the highest sensitivity and specificity (75.92% and 60%, respectively, area under curve [AUC] = 0.668, p = 0.0102). No statistically significant relationship has been found between other candidate biomarkers and CSVD features.

Conclusion

In summary, among four inflammatory biomarkers that we investigated, SERPINA3 level at baseline was associated with WMH severity, which revealed a novel biomarker for CSVD and validated its relationship with inflammation and endothelial dysfunction.
Dynamic Motion and Human Agents Facilitate Visual Nonadjacent Dependency Learning
Authors: Lu Helen Shiyang , Mintz Toben H.
Published: September 2023

Many events that humans and other species experience contain regularities in which certain elements within an event predict certain others. While some of these regularities involve tracking the co‐occurrences between temporally adjacent stimuli, others involve tracking the co‐occurrences between temporally distant stimuli (i.e., nonadjacent dependencies, NADs). Prior research shows robust learning of adjacent dependencies in humans and other species, whereas learning NADs is more difficult, and often requires support from properties of the stimulus to help learners notice the NADs. Here, we report on seven experiments that examined NAD learning from various types of visual stimuli, exploring the effects of dynamic motion on adults' NAD learning from visual sequences involving human and nonhuman agents. We tested adults' NAD learning from visual sequences of human actions, object transformations, static images of human postures, and static images of an object in different postures. We found that dynamic motion aids the acquisition of NADs. We also found that learning NADs in sequences involving human agents is more robust compared to sequences involving nonhuman objects. We propose that dynamic motion and human agents both independently result in richer representations that provide a stronger signal for NAD learning.
Age‐Related Differences in Moral Judgment: The Role of Probability Judgments
Authors: Margoni Francesco , Geipel Janet , Hadjichristidis Constantinos , Bakiaj Richard , Surian Luca
Published: September 2023

Research suggests that moral evaluations change during adulthood. Older adults (75+) tend to judge accidentally harmful acts more severely than younger adults do, and this age‐related difference is in part due to the greater negligence older adults attribute to the accidental harmdoers. Across two studies (N = 254), we find support for this claim and report the novel discovery that older adults’ increased attribution of negligence, in turn, is associated with a higher perceived likelihood that the accident would occur. We propose that, because older adults perceive accidents as more likely than younger adults do, they condemn the agents and their actions more and even infer that the agents’ omission to exercise due care is intentional. These findings refine our understanding of the cognitive processes underpinning moral judgment in older adulthood and highlight the role of subjective probability judgments in negligence attribution.
Two Computational Approaches to Visual Analogy: Task‐Specific Models Versus Domain‐General Mapping
Authors: Ichien Nicholas , Liu Qing , Fu Shuhao , Holyoak Keith J. , Yuille Alan L. , Lu Hongjing
Published: September 2023

Advances in artificial intelligence have raised a basic question about human intelligence: Is human reasoning best emulated by applying task‐specific knowledge acquired from a wealth of prior experience, or is it based on the domain‐general manipulation and comparison of mental representations? We address this question for the case of visual analogical reasoning. Using realistic images of familiar three‐dimensional objects (cars and their parts), we systematically manipulated viewpoints, part relations, and entity properties in visual analogy problems. We compared human performance to that of two recent deep learning models (Siamese Network and Relation Network) that were directly trained to solve these problems and to apply their task‐specific knowledge to analogical reasoning. We also developed a new model using part‐based comparison (PCM) by applying a domain‐general mapping procedure to learned representations of cars and their component parts. Across four‐term analogies (Experiment 1) and open‐ended analogies (Experiment 2), the domain‐general PCM model, but not the task‐specific deep learning models, generated performance similar in key aspects to that of human reasoners. These findings provide evidence that human‐like analogical reasoning is unlikely to be achieved by applying deep learning with big data to a specific type of analogy problem. Rather, humans do (and machines might) achieve analogical reasoning by learning representations that encode structural information useful for multiple tasks, coupled with efficient computation of relational similarity.
Physiologically based absorption modeling to predict the bioequivalence of two cilostazol formulations
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhao Pengfei , Luo Ting , Yang Dandan , Jiang Qianqian , Chen Jinliang , Lou Honggang , Ruan Zourong , Jiang Bo
Published: September 2023

In vivo pharmacokinetic simulations and virtual bioequivalence (BE) evaluation of cilostazol have not yet been described for humans. Here, we successfully developed a physiologically based absorption model to simulate plasma concentrations of cilostazol. In addition, virtual population simulations integrating dissolution of 0.3% sodium dodecyl sulfate water media were executed to evaluate the BE of test and reference formulations. Simulation results show that test and reference formulations were bioequivalent among 28 subjects, but not nine subjects, consistent with clinical studies. The model proved to be an important tool to show potential BE for cilostazol. This finding may facilitate understanding of the potential risks during the development of generic products.
Rural E‐commerce and County Economic Development in China
Authors: Qin Qiuxia , Guo Hongdong , Shi Xinjie , Chen Kevin
Published: September 2023

With the proliferation of information and communication technology in rural areas, rural e‐commerce has gradually become a new economic phenomenon in China. Using the national rural e‐commerce comprehensive demonstration policy as a quasi‐natural experiment, this study examines the causal linkage between rural e‐commerce and county‐level economic development in China. Its findings, which draw on county‐level panel data from 2011 to 2018, indicate that the policy had a positive effect on the county‐level economy in China, resulting in an overall increase in county GDP by 3.5 percent (0.7 percent annually). Our analysis further shows that the impact of the policy differed along the region and human capital dimensions. Further analysis reveals that industrial structure and nonagricultural employment were the main channels for the policy to exert a county‐level economic impact. Infrastructure improvement in China also plays an important role. The findings emphasize the importance of advancing e‐commerce in rural areas to stimulate county‐level economic development.
Increasing Wages, Factor Substitution, and Cropping Pattern Changes in China
Authors: Yan Zhoufu , Zhang Shurui , Wu Fangwei , Gong Binlei
Published: September 2023

This article analyzed the influence of increasing wages on cropping patterns from theoretical and empirical perspectives. The results showed that the increasing labor cost provided a significant incentive to adjust the grain cropping pattern, which increased the production of the three major cereal grains but reduced the production of other grain crops. Increasing wages had a significant negative impact on cash crops. More labor‐intensive cash crops experienced a larger negative impact in the context of increasing wages. The increase in labor costs also had a negative impact on the proportion of vegetables produced, which was more evident in northern China. A further mechanism test indicated that factor substitution was a significant reason for cropping pattern changes; this illustrated the substitution of labor by machinery not only between grain crops and cash crops but also among different cash crops.
Providing better access to oral health care for people receiving substance use treatment: A timely discussion
Authors: Uthurralt Natalia , Ajwani Shilpi , Kiel Roland , Chandra Shivani , Lama Rumba Bijaya , Day Carolyn A.
Published: September 2023

Substance use disorders are a risk factor for poor oral health which in turn impacts quality of life. Resultant oral problems contribute to chronic illness, premature mortality, social stigma, embarrassment and reduced opportunities for employment and social interaction. Providing dental services to people with substance use disorders is often difficult due to high rates of oral disease, anxiety, behavioural and drug use changes, and lifestyle factors. Previous studies have demonstrated that alcohol and other drug service clients find accessing and navigating oral health services complex and suggest a multidisciplinary care approach to improve outcomes. In this commentary, we describe individual and structural barriers that limit the use of oral health care among people with substance use disorders, alcohol and other drug clinicians' challenges to integrating oral health into their practice and identify key issues for oral health services in delivering care. We draw on our experience to recommend a multidisciplinary approach be used to develop strategies in order to increase access to oral health services at a standard similar to the general population for clients of alcohol and other drug services.
Developmental and genomic insight into the origin of the tardigrade body plan
Authors: Smith Frank W. , Game Mandy , Mapalo Marc A. , Chavarria Raul A. , Harrison Taylor R. , Janssen Ralf
Published: September 2023

Tardigrada is an ancient lineage of miniaturized animals. As an outgroup of the well‐studied Arthropoda and Onychophora, studies of tardigrades hold the potential to reveal important insights into body plan evolution in Panarthropoda. Previous studies have revealed interesting facets of tardigrade development and genomics that suggest that a highly compact body plan is a derived condition of this lineage, rather than it representing an ancestral state of Panarthropoda. This conclusion was based on studies of several species from Eutardigrada. We review these studies and expand on them by analyzing the publicly available genome and transcriptome assemblies of Echiniscus testudo, a representative of Heterotardigrada. These new analyses allow us to phylogenetically reconstruct important features of genome evolution in Tardigrada. We use available data from tardigrades to interrogate several recent models of body plan evolution in Panarthropoda. Although anterior segments of panarthropods are highly diverse in terms of anatomy and development, both within individuals and between species, we conclude that a simple one‐to‐one alignment of anterior segments across Panarthropoda is the best available model of segmental homology. In addition to providing important insight into body plan diversification within Panarthropoda, we speculate that studies of tardigrades may reveal generalizable pathways to miniaturization.
Plastics and insects: Records of ants entangled in synthetic fibres
Authors: Luna Álvaro , Rausell‐Moreno Armand , Vidal‐Cordero J. Manuel
Published: September 2023

Plastic pollution is an emerging environmental risk, as it may negatively impact many species.

However, much remains to be studied in terrestrial invertebrates, since the information in which this pollutant interacts with insects and soil fauna in natural environments is still limited.

Here, we present records of two ant species, Lasius grandis (Forel, 1909) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and Monomorium sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), found entangled in synthetic fibres at the summit broom shrubland and canary pine forest in the island of La Palma (Spain), respectively.

To our knowledge, this is one of the first reports of ants and other insects being entangled in plastics.

Despite our small sample size, this interaction could be more widespread.

Among other effects, ants could be transporting small plastic fragments to different soil horizons, but a greater knowledge of ants and other soil invertebrates interacting with plastics would help to improve our understanding of the relationship of this emerging pollutant with soil fauna in ecosystems with different degrees of human use.
The combined effect of rowing exercise and the intake of functional foods containing inulin on muscle mass and bone mineral density in older Japanese women
Authors: Murata Hiroko , Zhang Qiwei , Ito Tomoko , Kawakami Ryoko , Sakamoto Shizuo , Torii Suguru , Shibata Shigenobu , Tanisawa Kumpei , Higuchi Mitsuru
Published: September 2023

Aim

Aging decreases muscle mass and bone mineral density (BMD), especially in older women. It has been reported that rowing and inulin intake positively affect muscle and bone, respectively. We examined the synergistic effect of rowing and functional food intake, including inulin, on lean body mass, BMD, and physical function parameters in older Japanese women.

Methods

Fifty women aged 65–79 years were divided into four groups with or without inulin intake and rowing. The interventions were carried out for 12 weeks in each group. We assessed lean body mass and BMD using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry at baseline and after the intervention and examined the changes in the values in each group.

Results

Lean body mass in all groups decreased, and the change in lean body mass in the group with rowing and inulin intake was significantly smaller than that in the group without them (−0.05 ± 0.61; −0.83 ± 0.59 kg; P = 0.030). The BMD in the three intervention groups increased after the 12‐week intervention. The change in BMD in each of the three intervention groups showed significant differences compared with the control group (Rowing + Inulin: P = 0.03; Rowing + No inulin: P = 0.01; No rowing + Inulin: P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Rowing and the intake of functional foods, including inulin, synergistically prevented a decrease in lean body mass. These factors, individually and additively, might increase BMD in older Japanese women. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 779–787.
Evaluation of the care pathway in the context of the dispensing of emicizumab (Hemlibra) in community and hospital pharmacies in France: A patient satisfaction survey
Authors: Chamouard Valérie , Freyssenge Julie , Duport Gaetan , Volot Fabienne , Varin Rémi , Giraud Nicolas , Dargaud Yesim , Fraticelli Laurie
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Since June 2021 in France, patients with haemophilia A with anti‐factor VIII inhibitors and patients with severe haemophilia A without anti‐factor VIII inhibitors, and treated with emicizumab (Hemlibra), have to choose the dispensing circuit community or hospital pharmacy.

Aim

To evaluate satisfaction of patients whether they choose dispensation from a community pharmacy or retained dispensation from the hospital pharmacy, to understand the main motivation for choosing the community or the hospital pharmacy.

Methods

All patients living in France, regardless of age, were eligible to participate. Between September 13, 2022, and January 9, 2023, 175 respondents answered the satisfaction survey, including 123 in community pharmacy and 52 in hospital pharmacy.

Results

Eighteen months after availability in community pharmacies, treatment accessibility is improved for the benefit of the patient. The door‐to‐door travel times are significantly reduced to the community pharmacy with an average gain of 16.5 min saved from the place of residence. Patients are mostly satisfied with the new dispensing circuit especially concerning the overall satisfaction (p < .0001), the travel time (p < .0001) and the strong relationship with the pharmacist (p = .0022) compared to hospital pharmacy.

Conclusion

Innovation in care pathways is showing its full potential in improving access to medication, made possible by the implementation of a rigorous organization accompanied by training to enable healthcare professionals involved in primary care to provide appropriate management.
Racial and ethnic differences in reported haemophilia death rates in the United States
Authors: Fedewa Stacey A. , Payne Amanda B. , Tran Duc , Cafuir Lorraine , Antun Ana , Kempton Christine L.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

People with haemophilia's life expectancies have improved over time. Whether progress has been experienced equitably is unknown.

Aim

To examine recorded haemophilia death (rHD) rates according to race and ethnicity in the United States (US).

Methods

In this cohort study, rHDs were examined with US National Vital Statistics’ 1999–2020 Multiple Cause‐of‐Death data. rHD was defined as having a haemophilia A (D66) or B (D67) ICD‐10 code in the death certificate (underlying or multiple causes of death). Age‐adjusted rHD rates were compared with age‐adjusted rate ratios (aRR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI).

Results

There were 3115 rHDs in males with an rHD rate of 0.98 per 1 million males. Between 1999 and 2020, rHD rates declined by 46% in NH (Non‐Hispanic) White, 44% in NH Black (aRR = 0.56, 95%CI 0.43, 0.74), and 42% in Hispanic (aRR = 0.58, 95%CI 0.39, 0.88) males. However, rHD rates remained higher and were on average 30% greater in NH Black versus NH White males (aRR = 1.30 95% CI 1.16, 1.46). Among males with rHD, the median age at death rose from 54.5 to 65.5 years between 1999 and 2020 and was 12 years lower in NH Black (56 years) versus NH White (68 years) males in 2010–2020. There were 930 females with rHD, with an age‐adjusted rate of 0.22 per 1 million females, which was consistent between 1999 and 2020.

Conclusion

Reported haemophilia‐death rates improved in males across all race/ethnicities, but rates were higher Black versus White males. Given the inherent limitations of the current study's data source, further investigation of survival rates and disparities in haemophilia are needed.
New formulation technology to boost sun protection
Authors: Meaudre Hélène , Aubrun Odile , Boitte Jean‐Baptiste , Douezan Stéphane , Josso Martin , Le Verge Danielle , Renoux Pascale , Rondepierre Gaelle
Published: September 2023

Objective

As every skin type worldwide is concerned by photoprotection, with consumers preferring cosmetic elegant and efficient sunscreen products, we aim at developing the most performant and desirable sun care products.

Methods

We selected an interesting polymer, abbreviated AAHCP and designed scanning electron cryomicroscopy (cryoSEM), small angle and wide angle X‐ray scattering and confocal laser scanning microscopy studies to understand its behaviour in solution and in simplex sun care formulations. This allowed us to develop innovative sunscreen formulation technology that was demonstrated by in vitro and in vivo photoprotection methods. Comprehensive photoprotection evaluations were made on the fully developed sun protection product.

Results

We observed the polymer oil structuring properties as well as its ability to form small and stable droplets in simplex emulsions. In vitro and in vivo sun protection factor (SPF) measurements demonstrated the sun protection boosting efficacy of AAHCP polymer in several emulsions or as a stand‐alone emulsifier. This formulation technology also allowed to filtering system concentration optimization. Use‐test performed on a fully developed AAHCP‐based sunscreen validated its optimal performances as well as its ideal cosmetic features, with non‐sticky, non‐greasy perception and invisible skin result.

Conclusion

For the first time, thanks to a new specific polymer creating a new type of emulsion, we succeed in reconciliate in a single sun care product maximal SPF efficacy, resistance to numerous stresses and optimal sensoriality.
Knowledge of the monkeypox 2022 outbreak among dental hygienists and students in Saudi Arabia: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Vellappally Sajith , Naik Sachin , Thomas Rohit Philip , Alsadon Omar , Alayadi Haya , Hashem Mohamed , Alwadi Maram Ali M. , Thomas Nebu George , Ali Hyfa Mohammed , Alsarani Majed M. , Anil Sukumaran
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study aimed to assess the knowledge of monkeypox infection among dental hygiene professionals and students in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among a convenience sample of dental hygiene professionals (n = 259). The questionnaire was developed based on previous literature, and descriptive analysis and a Chi‐square test were performed.

Results

A total of 159 dental hygienists responded to the questionnaire. Results indicated that only 1.7% had good knowledge, 7.7% had moderate knowledge and 90.6% had low knowledge of the monkeypox outbreak. The mean knowledge scores varied among dental hygiene students, practitioners and faculty members. Significant group differences were observed for some questions (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study concludes that dental hygienists had moderate to low level of knowledge of the monkeypox infection and its implications for oral health and patient care, indicating a need for more education on the subject.
Evaluation of the usefulness and quality of YouTube™ videos about children's electric toothbrushes
Authors: Bayrak Gokcen Deniz , Tabakcilar Derya , Selvi Kuvvetli Senem
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The effectiveness of mechanical tooth cleaning, which plays a crucial role in biofilm control, depends on the type of brush and technique. Parents can refer to websites such as YouTube™ for guidance on the selection and use of electric toothbrushes. The objective of this study was to examine the usefulness, quality and accuracy of the information on YouTube™ videos about electric toothbrushes for children.

Materials and Methods

A search was performed on YouTube™ for English language videos using the terms ‘electric toothbrush for kids’ and ‘kids' electric toothbrush’. From the first 100 results, 64 videos were selected for further analysis. The videos were analysed for views, likes/dislikes, number of comments, upload source, duration and time since video upload. The usefulness and the quality of the selected videos were also measured.

Results

The majority of the videos mentioned toothbrush design (71.9%, n = 46) and toothbrush heads (62.5%, n = 40). The videos were generally determined to be moderately useful (46.9%), whereas very useful videos were found less frequently (12.5%). Slightly useful videos were mostly uploaded by laypeople. Very useful videos had significantly higher video durations than moderately and slightly useful videos (p = 0.029 and p = 0.002, respectively).

Conclusions

YouTube™ can be an important source of information for parents to learn about electric toothbrushes for their children. However, watching videos based on upload source and length of time may provide more accurate information on this topic. Also, dental healthcare professionals could be included more often to improve the usefulness and quality of the videos.
Development, implementation and evaluation of a dental hygienist supported daily toothbrushing programme in Irish pre‐schools: A single‐case experimental design
Authors: Anishchuk Sviatlana , Waldron Catherine
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Many pre‐school children in Ireland experience dental caries in their primary dentition. The rate of dental caries varies, impacted by the levels of fluoride in the water and socio‐economic status (18%–55%). This article reports on a novel initiative in which dental hygienists (DHs) supported pre‐school teachers (PST) to implement a toothbrushing programme for children attending pre‐schools in Ireland. It was hypothesised that such an initiative would create an environment in pre‐schools that would improve the oral hygiene skills and habits of children and increase the oral health knowledge of parents and PST.

Methods

A storybook (Brushing our teeth with Brush Bunny), a toothbrushing song and information leaflets were developed. DHs were provided with specific online training for the programme. The resources, including toothbrushes and toothpastes, were delivered to the pre‐schools and training was provided by the DHs to the PST to prepare for and implement daily toothbrushing sessions. The standards for the toothbrushing programme followed the ChildSmile© programme. Before and after questionnaires gathered quantitative and qualitative data from the parents and PST. The toothbrushing programme was implemented by PST for 3 months.

Results

Sixteen DHs and PST from 19 classes in 17 schools successfully delivered the programme to 331 children, and 227 parents completed both pre‐ and post‐questionnaires. Poor baseline knowledge in relation to the ‘spit don't rinse’ message increased from 29% to 48%. However, there was no improvement in awareness of the benefits of fluoride in toothpaste. Awareness of the best brushing routines in relation to frequency and length was good at baseline and remained so after the programme. Most parents (90%) felt the programme had impacted positively on their child's toothbrushing routine.

Conclusion

This experimental study suggests that the logistics of implementing a daily toothbrushing routine to improve the oral hygiene skills and habits of pre‐school children are possible in Irish pre‐school settings when PST are supported by DHs. Parents’ oral health knowledge may be improved, and it may impact positively on the children's daily toothbrushing routine. A larger study is required to confirm these findings.
Social robots in a project‐based learning environment: Adolescent understanding of robot–human interactions
Authors: LeTendre Gerald K. , Gray Raisa
Published: September 2023

Background

Although human–robotic interaction is a rapidly burgeoning area of study within education, and social robots are being widely tested for use in schools, few studies have focused on early adolescent interactions with robots under actual classroom conditions.

Objectives

We introduced an autonomous, social robot (‘Pepper’) into a project‐based learning environment at a public elementary/middle school in order to see how long‐term exposure to a robot in a project‐based classroom affected student conceptions of robots.

Methods

We conducted unstructured classroom observations, focus‐group interviews with students, and took videos of students interacting with the robot at key points in the project. We engaged in joint coding and memo writing to summarize key themes.

Results

Our results showed the limitations of these social robots as interactive educational technology, but also revealed the complexity of young adolescent beliefs about robots as social actors. Although current technology limits the ability of robots to be widely deployed in public‐school classrooms, skillfully designed interventions using social robots have the potential to motivate and engage students.

Takeaways

Exposure to the robot stimulated students to discuss robots as social actors, raised issues about gender identification of artificial agents in the classroom, and stimulated discussion on what constitutes a social being. The initial novelty of the humanoid robot enhanced engagement with the longer‐term project and also challenged teachers to be more reflective and flexible in planning the project.
Exploring patient medication adherence and data mining methods in clinical big data: A contemporary review
Authors: Xu Yixian , Zheng Xinkai , Li Yuanjie , Ye Xinmiao , Cheng Hongtao , Wang Hao , Lyu Jun
Published: September 2023

Background

Increasingly, patient medication adherence data are being consolidated from claims databases and electronic health records (EHRs). Such databases offer an indirect avenue to gauge medication adherence in our data‐rich healthcare milieu. The surge in data accessibility, coupled with the pressing need for its conversion to actionable insights, has spotlighted data mining, with machine learning (ML) emerging as a pivotal technique. Nonadherence poses heightened health risks and escalates medical costs. This paper elucidates the synergistic interaction between medical database mining for medication adherence and the role of ML in fostering knowledge discovery.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive review of EHR applications in the realm of medication adherence, leveraging ML techniques. We expounded on the evolution and structure of medical databases pertinent to medication adherence and harnessed both supervised and unsupervised ML paradigms to delve into adherence and its ramifications.

Results

Our study underscores the applications of medical databases and ML, encompassing both supervised and unsupervised learning, for medication adherence in clinical big data. Databases like SEER and NHANES, often underutilized due to their intricacies, have gained prominence. Employing ML to excavate patient medication logs from these databases facilitates adherence analysis. Such findings are pivotal for clinical decision‐making, risk stratification, and scholarly pursuits, aiming to elevate healthcare quality.

Conclusion

Advanced data mining in the era of big data has revolutionized medication adherence research, thereby enhancing patient care. Emphasizing bespoke interventions and research could herald transformative shifts in therapeutic modalities.
Effect of river cleaning on lowland drainage in South‐Eastern Sumatra
Authors: Aprialdi Dwinata , Mohammadpour Reza , Fajar Afri , Ismail  , Haghighi Ali Torabi , Kløve Bjørn
Published: September 2023

We study a tropical river in South‐East Sumatra, where land drainage in the coastal zone has resulted in subsidence and increased flooding risks, exacerbated by sea tides. The novelty of this research is in determining the effect of tide on the lowland drainage system for forestry in a coastal tropical region and the impact of river cleaning on flood management. Five monitoring stations were set up along the Lebong Hitam river and its primary channels to observe flow characteristics, water level, and bathymetry. The results show how the tide effects water level in the river and the adjacent drainage area with Eucalyptus plantations. Cleaning of the river had a significant effect on each station and increased the discharge and velocity by more than five times and reduced the water depth by more than 40%. In light of this research, it can be concluded that the cleaning up process improves flood risk management by decreasing the water level and increasing the discharge and velocity at each of the upstream stations. The cleaning did not have a significant effect on downstream sections of the river where sea levels control the water level in the river to a large extent. The work provides an analysis of tidal river and provides recommendations for current and future drainage and water management.
Resilient, undercontrolled, and overcontrolled personality types in Hong Kong youths and the association with mental health outcomes
Authors: So Melody Miriam , Suen Yi Nam , Wong Stephanie Ming Yin , Cheung Charlton , Chan Sherry Kit Wa , Lee Edwin Ho Ming , Hui Christy Lai Ming , Chen Eric Yu Hai
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between RUO types and mental health in a youth sample in Hong Kong.

Background

Previous research has found that Resilient, Undercontrolled, and Overcontrolled (RUO) personality types derived from Big Five personality traits are associated with mental health outcomes. Most studies, however, have predominantly been conducted in Western societies.

Method

Clinical diagnostic interviews and self‐rated measures of psychological constructs, covering resilience, rumination, self‐esteem and more, were administered to 860 youths aged 15 to 24 recruited from an ongoing epidemiological youth mental health study in Hong Kong.

Results

Three personality clusters were identified. The first (mean age = 19.6, 63.3% female) and second (mean age = 19.5, 60.7% female) cluster both have characteristics of the under‐ and overcontrolled personalities. The third personality type resembled the resilient profile in RUO typology (mean age = 19.6, 50.5% female) and showed the lowest prevalence of poor mental health.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the replicability of the RUO profiles was only partial in a Hong Kong sample predominantly Chinese. The resilient profile was replicated but not the undercontrolled and overcontrolled profiles proposed by previous studies. The findings of the current study implicated that culturally contextual considerations are necessary when relating mental health to personality.
Biosynthesis of neuroprotective melatonin is dysregulated in Huntington's disease
Authors: Kim Jinho , Li Wei , Wang Jingjing , Baranov Sergei V. , Heath Brianna E. , Jia Jiaoying , Suofu Yalikun , Baranova Oxana V. , Wang Xiaomin , Larkin Timothy M. , Lariviere William R. , Carlisle Diane L. , Friedlander Robert M.
Published: September 2023

Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder associated with uncontrolled body movements, cognitive decline, and reduced circulating melatonin levels. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant and exogenous melatonin treatment is neuroprotective in experimental HD models. In neurons, melatonin is exclusively synthesized in the mitochondrial matrix. Thus, we investigated the integrity of melatonin biosynthesis pathways in pineal and extrapineal brain areas in human HD brain samples, in the R6/2 mouse model of HD and in full‐length mutant huntingtin knock‐in cells. Aralkylamine N‐acetyltransferase (AANAT) is the rate‐limiting step enzyme in the melatonin biosynthetic pathway. We found that AANAT expression is significantly decreased in the pineal gland and the striatum of HD patients compared to normal controls. In the R6/2 mouse forebrain, AANAT protein expression was decreased in synaptosomal, but not nonsynaptosomal, mitochondria and was associated with decreased synaptosomal melatonin levels compared to wild type mice. We also demonstrate sequestration of AANAT in mutant‐huntingtin protein aggregates likely resulting in decreased AANAT bioavailability. Paradoxically, AANAT mRNA expression is increased in tissues where AANAT protein expression is decreased, suggesting a potential feedback loop that is, ultimately unsuccessful. In conclusion, we demonstrate that pineal, extrapineal, and synaptosomal melatonin levels are compromised in the brains of HD patients and R6/2 mice due, at least in part, to protein aggregation.