bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of safety through mutagenicity and subchronic toxicity studies with black pepper extract preparation
Authors: Chae Lee , Lee Sungwon , Mahadevan Swetha , Bauter Mark R , Wojenski Colleen , Robertson Kristin , Premkumar Brian , Mahadevan Brinda
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Black pepper ( Piper nigrum) is a rich source of natural and bioactive components such as N-trans-feruloyltyramine (NFT). In this paper, we discuss the results of the subchronic toxicity and mutagenicity studies conducted to understand the potential for adverse effects if any, of Black Pepper Extract Preparation (BPE).

Methods

To evaluate mutagenicity, an Ames test was conducted with BPE in the presence and absence of S9 metabolic activation. Long-term safety was inferred through a 90-day subchronic toxicology study using adult rats. Dose levels were selected with expected human intake levels of NFT (120 mg/kg/day), with an acceptable safety factor, for preclinical safety and tolerability. Sprague Dawley rats were fed diets targeting dietary intakes (doses) of 0, 125, 350, or 700 mg/kg/day of BPE for 90 days, an NFT dose level equivalent to 68, 190, and 380 mg/kg/day.

Results

In vitro Ames test up to 5000 µg/plate with and without S9 metabolic activation showed no BPE-related increases in revertant colony numbers and was non-mutagenic. There were no BPE-related changes in viability, clinical signs, body weight, food consumption, and organ weights. BPE dietary administration did not induce any treatment-related changes in hematology, clinical chemistry, other macroscopic or microscopic endpoints.

Discussion and conclusion

The highest dose tested with BPE (700 mg/kg/day) was the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) that revealed no adverse effects. Based on toxicological endpoints evaluated, this NOAEL for BPE corresponded to a human equivalent NFT dose level of 380 mg/kg/day, dependent upon a (∼50%) concentration of NFT in BPE.
The Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: A Cross-Sectional Study on the Knowledge, Perception, and Readiness of Medical Students at a Tertiary Institution in Nigeria
Authors: Obiekwe Sochima Johnmark , Omaga Ikechukwu Benjamin , Ukadike Mmesoma Miriam , Edeh Chidera Gabriel , Iheanyi Chinyere Esther , Anisiobi Promise Ugochuku , Obi Chukwuebuka Favour , Ogenyi Samuel , Obi Ejeatuluchukwu
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims:

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to revolutionise healthcare, compelling forthcoming healthcare professionals to arm themselves with essential knowledge and skills. Given this, understanding medical students’ (future healthcare providers’) perspectives and readiness is vital for achieving full integration. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, perspectives, and readiness perceived by medical students at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study conveniently recruited 340 medical students. A pretest self-structured questionnaire was utilised for data collection among students who were already in the clinical phase of their study programme. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used for the analysis of the results.

Results:

The vast majority of the respondents (99.4%) had heard of AI, but only 3.2% were very familiar with its real-world applications. Most participants (96.8%) lacked formal education or training in AI, and few (7.4%) regularly followed AI-related news. Concerns about AI integration included data privacy (39.4%) and the potential loss of human touch in patient care (70.9%). Job displacement (72.1%) and misuse of AI (55.9%) were common fears. Despite these concerns, more than half of the respondents (55.6%) were interested in AI research, and many expressed openness to collaborating with AI systems (34.1%) and acquiring additional AI-related skills (67.9%).

Conclusion:

There was a lack of AI knowledge among the respondents, coupled with widespread scepticism about its integration. However, there is a notable interest in AI-related research and projects, indicating a willingness to explore its potential benefits.
Combined Lumbar and Sacral Plexus Block in an Elderly Patient with Coronary Artery Disease for Unilateral Total Hip Replacement as a Sole Anaesthetic
Authors: Vinitha B  , Senthil Meena P  , Vasantha Roopan C
Published: November 2024

Peripheral nerve plexus blocks have replaced general and neuraxial anaesthesia as the preferred method of anaesthesia for single-limb procedures. The present case report aimed to assess the effectiveness of combined peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) as the sole anaesthetic option intraoperatively as well as for postoperative pain relief for total hip replacement in elderly patients with comorbidities, as it maintains hemodynamic stability, avoids complications associated with general anaesthesia and neuraxial anaesthesia, improves postoperative analgesia, and reduces the incidence of perioperative MI. This is a case report of a 69-year-old elderly male with hypertension and coronary artery disease who underwent left total hip replacement with continuous combined lumbar and sacral plexus blocks. Thus, to conclude, it was found that combined lumbar and sacral plexus nerve block with sedation provides adequate surgical anaesthesia intraoperatively and postoperative analgesia for unilateral hip surgeries without affecting haemodynamics.
Echoes of Exiled Journalists from Africa: Motivation, Resilience, Values and Innovation of Global Journalism
Authors: Gondwe Gregory , Vialle Elodie
Published: November 2024

This study examines the motivations, resilience and innovative contributions of exiled journalists from sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on those from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Somalia, Uganda and Zimbabwe. It categorises these journalists into voluntary exiles, who leave due to a commitment to journalistic integrity and dissatisfaction with censorship and corruption, and involuntary exiles, who flee threats, violence or imprisonment linked to their investigative work. Through in-depth interviews with 32 exiled journalists, the study explores their adaptation strategies in host countries, their persistent motivations despite significant challenges and their use of new communication technologies and online platforms to bypass censorship. The findings underscore the essential role of exiled journalists in upholding press freedom and ethical reporting, emphasising their resilience and dedication despite considerable risks and sacrifices. These insights highlight the need for robust support systems, including increased funding, legal assistance and technological resources, to empower exiled journalists and ensure their continued contributions to global journalism.
Issues Associated With the Formulation of a Small Area Model for Estimation of State-Level Crime Victimization Rates
Authors: Berg Emily
Published: November 2024

Subnational estimation is an important and challenging problem in the context of the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). Direct estimates for subnational domains are often unreliable due to small sample sizes. Model-based procedures have potential to improve upon direct estimators. However, model-based estimation presents several new challenges. One must identify suitable covariates, and an appropriate model form must be specified. This article discusses issues associated with the formulation of a small area model for production of state-level estimates of crime victimization rates. An analysis of direct estimates and covariates motivates the development of a Bayesian multivariate model. A model in the original scale is compared to a model in the log scale. Efficiency gains from the model relative to the direct estimators are examined. One challenge is that direct estimates can equal zero. Two ways of handling zero direct estimates are discussed.
Individual and Sociocultural Determinants of Suicide in an Indian Community: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Nalavade Madhuri Thorat , Zachariah Bobby , Takawale Prajakta , Komesaroff Paul , de Wit Emmy Emily , Bunders-Aelen Joske
Published: November 2024

India has a significant number of people exposed to suicide. The traumatic effects of these experiences, and the healing process of suicide survivors are poorly understood. We investigated suicide survivors’ experiences and post-suicide healing. Interviews were conducted with suicide survivors who received different types of support—home visits before COVID-19 and telephonic outreach during lockdown. Two researchers used “active listening” and “human capacity for response” theory for deductive and inductive coding. Personal and socio-cultural factors affect recovery after suicide. Protective factors include religious or spiritual beliefs, as well as a sense of life purpose. Factors that hinder recovery include lack of social support, unmet need for compassionate understanding, insufficient acknowledgment of personal struggles, and social stigma. Interventions for suicide survivors should consider personal and cultural factors, including psychological and religious needs. Interventions should create safe environments that allow individuals to draw on personal and social resources for healing.
Situated knowledge-making in dynamic collaboration: A reflexive case study of social work practice research in mainland China
Authors: Chen Yun , Shi Tianqi , Wu Baohong
Published: November 2024

In recent decades, vibrant Western scholarship has focused on exploring “practice research” frameworks and approaches, aiming to generate social work knowledge more directly from, by, and for practice. Relatively little is known about the processes and characteristics of practice research in places where the social work profession is a foreign import. This study employed the case study methodology to examine the interactive dynamics of a 5-years practice research project in mainland China, utilizing participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis to collect empirical evidence primarily from the researchers and social work practitioners involved in the project. Through noncoding-based reflexive thematic analysis, our study reveals that the formation of the practice research project was profoundly shaped by local sociopolitical conditions, where research and practice were not two sides of a binary, but different-yet-interconnected types of actions along one continuum of China’s social work development. Moreover, the interactions between the research and practice teams revealed a pattern of divergent dominance, with the former leading openly while the latter subtly influenced the collaboration. This dynamic was further complicated by the internal hierarchies within each team. This study provides implications for future practice research endeavors in contexts of global social work, and for promoting more social structurally-informed inquiries on practice research.
Homologous 111In-Radiolabeled Platelet Survival and Sequestration Exploration for Refractory Immunologic Thrombocytopenic purpura in Children: A Strategy to Avoid Unnecessary Splenectomy
Authors: Dubois Julien , Kucharczak Florentin , De Neef Léa , Kouyoumdjian Virginie , Palenzuela Gilles , Tunez Virginie , Mariano-Goulart Denis , Bourdon Aurélie , Paunet Tom
Published: November 2024

Immunologic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a condition that affects four to 18 per 100 000 children every year. In most cases, spontaneous remission occurs, but splenectomy may be proposed. Exploring the site of platelet sequestration can help to better predict potential poor responders to splenectomy, but 111In-radiolabeled platelet scintigraphy (IPS) can be difficult to perform in children with very few platelets. A 12-year-old boy suffering from refractory ITP was referred for evaluation of platelet survival and sequestration and consideration of splenectomy. His platelet count consistently remained below 10 000/mm3. An exceptional procedure was set up to use homologous platelets to perform the IPS. Splenectomy was ruled out based on the results of 111In-radiolabeled homologous platelet scintigraphy. The attending pediatrician intensified medical treatments, resulting in a significant improvement in platelet count. This increase in platelet levels allowed for 111In-radiolabeled autologous platelet scintigraphy, which confirmed the absence of splenic sequestration. This allowed us to reject splenectomy in this child. Homologous IPS could help clinicians to choose splenectomy as a treatment option for ITP in children with a very low platelet count, and its use should be promoted after failed thrombopoietin receptor agonist (TPO-RA) treatment. More systematic studies are needed to confirm the predictive response to splenectomy of homologous IPS.
Digital dissent: How Indonesian and Filipino journalists converge with virtual communities to face state repression
Authors: Hasfi Nurul , Pednekar-Magal Vandana , Rimban Luz , Sunarto Sunarto , Yusriana Amida
Published: November 2024

Online protest movements have facilitated researchers to access real-time data of microblogging, user metadata associated with accounts, message content, and enabled insights into complex links between social media use and protest movements. Employing emerging computational techniques and conventional qualitative approaches, this study examines the effectiveness of online protest movements in Indonesia and the Philippines. Simultaneously deployed, these protests were organized by journalist groups against repressive state actions that muzzled the press in these countries. The study compares the strategies of the two movements to illustrate the success factors in social media usage that bolstered the participation of the national and global publics, and marshalled international support.
Investigating the Prevalence and Types of Clinical Services Offered by Pharmacists in Federally Qualified Health Centers in South Carolina: A Qualitative, Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Laney Brice , Rayfield Anna , Barfield Reagan K. , Bookstaver Paul Brandon , Nelson Natalie , Phillips Kaitlyn , Royals Carrington
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

To investigate the prevalence and type of clinical pharmacy services offered within South Carolina Federally Qualified Health Centers (SC FQHCs) and identify existing implementation barriers.

Methods:

This study was a cross-sectional survey of pharmacists or Chief Medical Officers practicing in SC FQHCs. Organizations were identified utilizing the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) database and were contacted to participate in a telephone survey. An electronic form was created in REDCap® software. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze and evaluate data.

Results:

Twenty-two SC FQHCs were eligible for the survey, with 16 (72.7%) participating. Of the respondents, 9 (56%) offered at least 1 service. The most common services offered were chronic disease state management, diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES), and tobacco cessation (43.8%, n = 7). The least common services offered were chronic care, Hepatitis C, and HIV management (18.9%, n = 3). The most common barriers to implementation were lack of personnel and provider interest (62.5%, n = 10). The least common barrier was a lack of pharmacist interest or time (25%, n = 4).

Conclusion:

Pharmacists offered at least 1 clinical service within most SC FQHCs. Barriers were identified that prevented expansion of services and further research is needed to overcome these.
Mid-Term Results of Pulmonary Valve-Sparing Repair for Tetralogy of Fallot With Pulmonary Stenosis
Authors: Raju Vijayakumar , Srinivasan Naveen , Kadavanoor Divya , Moorthy Rajalakshmi , Jothinath Kousik , Gangadharan Sreja , Vijayaraghavan Aparna , Muthuswarmy Kalyanasundaram , Krishna Mani Ram , Ramanath Pavithra
Published: November 2024

Objective

The transannular patch remains the most common procedure performed for patients with Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) with pulmonary stenosis. Pulmonary regurgitation has a negative impact on early and late outcomes. To address this issue pulmonary valve-sparing repair (PVSR) has been developed. Our study goal is to evaluate the mid-term outcomes (five years) of PVSR at our institution.

Material and Methods

The data were collected retrospectively from June 2014 to June 2022. A total of 390 patients had total repair of TOF. Among these, PVSR was performed in 154 (39.4%) patients. The mid-term outcomes on the status of the pulmonary valve gradient, degree of pulmonary regurgitation, reintervention rate, and mid-term survival after PVSR were investigated.

Results

The median age at time of TOF repair was 12 (interquartile range [IQR]: 8-48) months and the median weight was 7.9 (IQR: 3.1-49.5) kg. The mean preoperative right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) gradient was 77 ± 19.6 mm Hg. All patients had a pulmonary valve Z score of more than −2.5. The post-repair mean RV/LV pressure ratio was 0.49 ± 0.12. There was no surgical mortality. The median follow-up was 3 years (6 months to 8 years). The reintervention rate on the pulmonary valve was 4/154 (2.6%) at five years. The freedom from reintervention and from developing moderate pulmonary valve regurgitation at 5 years was 95% (151/154) and 77% (119/154), respectively.

Conclusion

Pulmonary valve-sparing repair gives good mid-term outcomes in a specific group of patients with TOF. Reintervention rates are very low and the peak gradient across the pulmonary valve came down in the majority of patients during mid-term follow up. An RVOT gradient more than 40mm Hg at discharge predicts a high risk of need for reintervention. We continue to monitor our patients for the long term outcome.
Gendered Migration Patterns and Social Change in Rural Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Scott Christian Kelly , Sexsmith Kathleen , Chi Guangqing
Published: November 2024

This study analyses the relationships between labour migration and community perceptions of gender relations and roles in Kyrgyzstan, the second-most remittance-dependent economy in the world. Based on 591 surveys and 34 qualitative interviews with adult household members in the At-Bashy rayon, we analysed migration decision-making processes as well as community perceptions of women’s migration, women’s labour patterns, and associations between migration and divorce. We found that migrant women are praised for their economic contributions to their households via remittances, yet also shamed by their communities for withdrawing from traditional gendered practices around child-rearing and marriage. Thus, our evidence suggests that migration contributes to some limited changes in social expectations regarding women’s traditional roles in rural Kyrgyzstan. This article demonstrates the importance of studying relationships between out-migration and gender across migrant and non-migrant households in origin communities.
(Re)Coding the “Black Quarterback”: A 20-Year Critical Quantitative Analysis of Racial Stacking and the Mediated Dichotomy Between “Pro-Style” and “Dual-Threat”
Authors: Bell Travis R. , Robb Jaime Shamado , Cobb-Roberts Deirdre , Velez Kalin
Published: November 2024

This research applied a critical quantitative approach to the 247sports.com recruiting website to consider whether the “Black quarterback” label systematically rooted in sport persisted as a mediated form of racial stacking for high school football quarterbacks. A 20-year content analysis (2001–2020) examined race, position code, star value, and position ranking for 3448 high school quarterbacks. The results indicated a pattern of racial stacking through the use of coded language, where 85.3% of “pro-style” quarterbacks were White, and Black quarterbacks occupied a majority (55.5%) in the “dual-threat” code. These findings are contextualized through a QuantCrit approach define here or see below where the greatest concern is the cyclical predictability of recruiting rankings that illustrate the centrality and permanence of racism through the constructed duality of two quarterback codes. This research identifies a racialization of ability that establishes “pro-style” as the property of Whiteness and showcases a fundamental relationship between recruiting websites and the discriminatory language drawn on by media, coaches, and others to demarcate quarterbacks by race. This study illuminates how power works through mediated practice that creates an ideological reservoir of racial marking of football players enmeshed in the historical stacking process.
Microfracture Versus a Porcine-Derived Collagen-Augmented Chondrogenesis Technique for Treating Knee Cartilage Defects: Results at Midterm Follow-up
Authors: Kim Man Soo , Chun Churl Hong , Wang Joon Ho , Kang Seung-Baik , Chang Moon Jong , In Yong
Published: November 2024

Background:

Damaged cartilage can be treated using the creation of microfractures (MFxs) or the porcine-derived collagen-augmented chondrogenesis technique (C-ACT).

Purpose:

To provide the midterm results of a multicenter randomized controlled trial comparing MFx and C-ACT for knee cartilage defects.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

The study cohort comprised 36 patients with medial femoral condyle cartilage defects who were followed up for 6 years with clinical and magnetic resonance imaging data (n = 14 treated with MFx alone, n = 22 treated with C-ACT). Clinical outcomes were assessed preoperatively and at 1, 2, and 6 years postoperatively using a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score. Magnetic resonance imaging scans were performed preoperatively and at 1 and 6 years postoperatively, and the repaired cartilage tissue was evaluated using the magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) score. The repaired tissue/reference cartilage ratio was quantified using T2 mapping. Adverse events during follow-up were also evaluated.

Results:

In both groups, the VAS pain score improved and was maintained for 1, 2, and 6 years postoperatively compared with preoperatively ( P < .05 for all). Although there were no significant differences between groups in the VAS pain, KOOS, or IKDC scores at any time point, the change in the IKDC—Activities of Daily Living subscore from preoperatively to 6 years postoperatively was better in the C-ACT group than the MFx group ( P = .0423). At 6 years postoperatively, the MOCART assessment showed superior results regarding the surface of the repair tissue in the C-ACT group compared with the MFx group ( P = .0288). There were no differences between the groups in the total MOCART score or other subscores.

Conclusion:

The study results suggest that C-ACT has similar effects to MFx in improving pain, joint function, and imaging findings and may be superior to MFx in improving daily life function and improving the quality of the surface of the cartilage tissue.

Registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02539030.
Outbreak of Meningitis in Iraq in 2023
Authors: Salih Khalid Hama , Najmadden Zana Baqi , Ahmed Bahadin Qader , Ismael Pishdar Abdullah , Kareem Kaiwan H. , Abdulqadir Lana Diyar , Sabir Roza M. , Abdalla Basta J. , Qadir Binay A. , Mohammed Razhan M. , karim Ali Salih
Published: November 2024

Objective. To determine clinical presentations and laboratory findings of meningitis outbreak among children in 2023 in Iraq. Method. the demographic data (gender, age, symptoms, and disease transmission among family members) were collected from child patients, who were admitted to Halabja and Sulaimania pediatric teaching hospital in the period of 15 March 2023 to 1st of August, 2023. The blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens were collected for hematological, biochemical, microscopic, and microbiological examinations, including culturing and FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel. Results. The population studied were 170 children between 1 and 18 years old, Males were 110 (64.7%), and females were 60 (35.3%). Children between 5 and 10 years old had the highest frequency, whereas only 2 children were <1 year. Clinical symptoms were fever in 100%, followed by headache, vomiting, convulsion, photophobia, and lethargy (79%, 12%, 3%, 3%, 2%) respectively. CSF parameters were: 38.8% of them had >1000 leucocytes/µ, followed by 31.2% for those who had <300 cells/µ, differential CSF leucocytes, 82.4% were monocytes, and sugar was normal at 84.1%. while protein was <40 mg/d in 55.9% of them. Conclusion. Meningitis outbreak due to enterovirus was recorded, and age predilection and clinical presentation refer to different serotypes. Further work is needed to define the species and serotypes of the virus and define the environmental source of the virus.
Protest, exit, and border expansion in Cuba in the context of COVID-19
Authors: Correa Alvarez Ahmed
Published: November 2024

This article examines the expansion of border control and migration strategies in Cuba following the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the biomedical response to the pandemic by the Cuban state, this context was marked by unprecedented levels of social mobilization and the largest migratory exodus in Cuban history. The first section discusses several of the migratory modalities used by Cubans in a context marked by the precarization of life, accentuated by the economic reform adopted by the Cuban state. The second one explores the political function of the border regime in the state response to an unprecedented moment of oppositional activism. Specifically, it analyzes how the practices of banishment, denial of entry, and control of exits, are used as part of the repertoire of repression, underscoring the importance of the border regime vis-a-vis the notions of citizenship and belonging in the Cuban context. The article argues that in the analyzed context of deepening internal economic crisis and political retrenchment, the border regime plays a central role in managing political decisions in Cuba. While Cuban migrants find themselves navigating ever more complex, dangerous border regimes abroad, they also contend with the Cuban state’s instrumental and often repressive use of a border regime at home.
‘They want to get rid of us by all means’: A critical analysis of policy and governance responses and their implications for street traders’ access to urban space in Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Bandauko Elmond , Arku Godwin
Published: November 2024

This paper examines how urban authorities in Harare respond to street trading and the implications of these interventions on street traders’ access to urban space. Drawing from focus groups, in-depth interviews with street traders and urban governance actors, we argue that as urban authorities in Harare become obsessed with defending modernity, they implement aggressive urban policies aimed at eradicating street traders’ livelihoods. These violent measures are often differentially experienced with ‘street vending mothers’, the elderly and those with disabilities bearing the brunt of Harare’s authoritarian spatial governance. Alternatively, the city has also experimented with what we call governing through ‘spatial containment’, aimed at ‘taming’ street traders and transforming them into formalized entities. We demonstrate that despite its noble intentions, such a policy approach has unintended outcomes for street traders since it undermines the organic attributes of their trade: operational flexibility, spatial mobility and proximity to customers. Despite the negative implications of policy interventions, street traders’ associations struggle to champion the collective voice of informal traders due to their organisational fragmentation, unfavourable political environment and existing structural constraints. This study contributes to the broader scholarly debate on urban informality, governance, and socio-economic justice in developing country contexts. Based on our findings, we call for a paradigm shift in policy and governance approaches, advocating for inclusive urban planning, dialogue, and recognition of the socio-economic contributions of street traders.
Data requirements for a systematic analysis of urban food flows and their sustainability outcomes
Authors: Guibrunet Louise , Hoekman Paul , Bortolotti Andrea , Battersby Jane
Published: November 2024

This paper systematically assesses the quantity and quality of existing secondary data on urban food flows, as well as its potential use to analyse the impacts of such flows on human health and environmental sustainability. To do so, the authors built a digital, open-access platform to systematise, store and visualise urban food flows data. Given the importance of systematically understanding diverse urban food systems, the objective of the platform is to ease the analysis and comparison of food flows across cities, and to provide a panorama of the quality of datasets and data gaps. By developing an accessible methodology that allows for effortless generation of data visualisations, additional urban food datasets can be included in the platform in order to enhance our common understanding of contemporary urban food metabolisms. The paper presents data on key nodes of urban food systems: production, imports, exports, processing, wholesale, retail, consumption, and food loss and waste. The platform also estimates the environmental impacts of each city’s diet and how much such a diet differs from a sustainable and healthy diet. To illustrate how the platform works, we present a preliminary analysis of four cities: Cape Town (South Africa), London (United Kingdom), Mexico City (Mexico) and Milan (Italy). We systematise and analyse pertinent secondary data for each city, and assess data quality and data gaps. We conclude with a reflection on the strengths and limitations of the online platform, and with an open invitation to use the platform to analyse other cities.
The effect of the great Kermanshah earthquake on the tuberculosis infection trend: interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Mardani-Talaee Ehsan , Salimi Yahya , Heydarpour Fatemeh , Darbandi Mitra , Abdoli Gholamreza
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Tuberculosis (TB) presents a substantial danger to populations experiencing crises like earthquakes. This study aims to explore the effect of the Kermanshah earthquake on the trend of TB.

Methods

This cross-sectional study examined tuberculosis data from 2009 to 2020, using monthly diagnoses. Data was collected from the TB research office and registration system. The study employed interrupted time series (ITS) analysis to assess both the immediate and long-term impacts of the earthquake on TB cases.

Results

In Sarpol-e Zahab, TB cases initially surged after the earthquake, indicating an immediate effect, but then significantly declined compared to pre-earthquake levels, reflecting an effect over time (β0 = 1.39, β1=-0.004, β2 = 0.11 and β3=-0.01, P = 0.001 and Post-intervention linear trend= -0.015, P < 0.001). In Ghasr-e Shirin, the average number of TB cases prior to the earthquake was estimated at 0.58 cases, with a significant monthly decrease of 0.005 cases leading up to the earthquake (P = 0.001). There was no significant immediate change in TB cases during the first month after the earthquake (β2 = 0.008, P = 0.680). Post-earthquake, TB cases dramatically increased (β3 = 0.008, P = 0.001). The monthly trend of TB cases rose significantly by 0.002 (P = 0.001), indicating an effect over time. In Salas-e Babajani, there was no immediate change in TB cases, but there was a significant long-term decline compared to the period before the earthquake (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Earthquake is one of the natural crises that provide the conditions for the increase of TB. Local health policymakers must make plans in these areas to contain TB after the earthquake.
Review of the novel antifungal drug olorofim (F901318)
Authors: Vanbiervliet Yuri , Van Nieuwenhuyse Tine , Aerts Robina , Lagrou Katrien , Spriet Isabel , Maertens Johan
Published: November 2024

There is clearly a need for novel antifungal agents, not only concerning spectrum, but also oral bioavailability, tolerability, and drug-drug interactions. There is growing concern for antifungal resistance for current available antifungals, mainly driven by environmental fungicide use or long-term exposure to antifungals, in the setting of mould-active prophylaxis or for chronic antifungal infections, such as chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. Moreover, the incidence of breakthrough infections is increasing, because of the introduction of (mould-active) prophylaxis (1-4). There is emergence of difficult to treat invasive fungal infections, such as those caused by Lomentospora prolificans, cryptic species of Aspergillus, Scedosporium and Coccidioides. Olorofim (F901318) is the first-in class of the orotomides, a novel antifungal class targeting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of pyrimidines. Olorofim shows good in vitro and in vivo activity against Aspergillus species, rare and difficult to treat moulds and endemic dimorphic fungi, including azole- and amphotericin-resistant isolates. It lacks activity against yeasts and the Mucorales species. It is only orally available and shows very promising results in ongoing clinical trials. In this review we will describe the mechanism of action of olorofim, the spectrum of activity in vitro and in vivo, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, drug-drug interactions, resistance, and clinical outcomes.
Burden of care among caregivers of people with mental illness in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Andualem Fantahun , Melkam Mamaru , Tadesse Gebresilassie , Nakie Girum , Tinsae Techilo , Fentahun Setegn , Rtbey Gidey , Takelle Girmaw Medfu , Gedef Getachew Muluye
Published: November 2024

Background

Caring for people with mental illness requires a significant investment of personal physical, mental, social, and financial resources, which greatly impact the daily lives of caregivers. The process of providing care is multifaceted and intricate, involving both positive and negative emotional responses. Burden of care is a term used to describe the negative effects of caregivers’ burden on their physical, psychological, social, and economic well-being. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to provide an overview of the most recent information available regarding the pooled prevalence of burden of care among people with mental illness in Africa.

Methods

In this study, we followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), which is a suitable guideline for reports of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The PROSPERO protocol number for this review is CRD42024499138. To find publications for the systematic review and meta-analysis, we used PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) for cross-sectional study quality assessment was employed to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies included in this review. The data was extracted in Microsoft Excel, and then it was exported into STATA 11.0 for analysis. A funnel plot and an objective examination of Egger's regression test were used to check for publication bias.

Results

We have included 12 studies conducted in African countries with 2156 study participants, of whom 1176 (54.55%) were female individuals. In this meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of burden of care among caregivers of people with mental illness in Africa was 61.73 (95% CI: 51.25–72.21%). Further, in subgroup analysis regarding the study country, the pooled prevalence of carer burden among caregivers of people with mental illness in Egypt and Nigeria was 79.19% and 55.22%, respectively.

Conclusion

This review found a high pooled prevalence of caregiver burden related to mental illness in Africa. To minimize the challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses, as well as the burden on their caregivers, stakeholders may find these findings useful for addressing prevention, early screening, and management.
Chemical analysis, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect of Achillea fragrantissima essential oil growing wild in Egypt
Authors: Tawfik Nashwa F. , El-Sayed Nashwa , Mahgoub Shahenda , Khazaal Mohamed T. , Moharram Fatma A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Achillea fragrantissima (F. Asteraceae) is traditionally used to treat skin infections and inflammation. The present work intended to prepare essential oils (EOs) from A. fragrantissima aerial parts growing widely in Egypt and investigate its antibacterial activity against skin-related pathogens and in vitro cell-based anti-inflammatory activity.

Methods

EOs of the fresh aerial parts were extracted by hydrodistillation (HD), microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD), and head-space (HS), while those of the dried ones were prepared by supercritical fluid (SF). The result EOs were analyzed using GC/MS. The antibacterial activity was evaluated alongside Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Streptococcus pyogenes ATCC 12344, Clostridium perfringens ATCC 13124 by agar diffusion, microwell dilution, and biofilm formation tests. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by measuring tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 2 (IL-2), and 6 (IL-6) in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)- stimulated RAW 264.7 cells using ELISA assays in addition, expression of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was measured via western blot.

Results

The SF method gave the highest EO yield (1.50 mL v/w). Oxygenated components constituted the highest percentage in the four methods, 84.14, 79.21, 73.29 and 33.57% in the HS, HD, MAHD, and SF, respectively. Moreover, variation in the amount of identified compounds was apparent; in HS EO α-thujone (29.37%), artemisia ketone (19.59%), and santolina alcohol (14.66%) are major components, while α-thujone (20.38%) and piperatone (12.09%) were significant in HD. Moreover, ( +)-spathulenol (12.22%) and piperatone (10.48%) were significant in MAHD, while piperatone (14.83%) and β-sitosterol (11.07%) were significant in SF EO. HD, MAHD, and SF EOs exhibited susceptibility against P. aeruginosa (IZ = 9–14 mm), E. coli (11–13 mm), and C. perfringens (IZ = 10–14 mm) in agar diffusion assay. MAHD EOs demonstrated potent growth inhibition (MICs = 0.25–2 mg/mL), followed by HD EOs (MICs = 13–52 mg/mL) to all tested microorganisms in well microdilution assay. Also, they exert MBC values equal to or higher than the MICs. Furthermore, SF EOs inhibited the biofilm formation of all tested microorganisms by 65.12—80.84%. Specifically, MAHD and HD EOs efficiently suppress the biofilm of S. pyogenes (77.87%) and P. aeruginosa (60. 29%), respectively. Ultimately, HD and SF EOs showed anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the TNF-α, IL-2, and IL-6 release and iNOS expression in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Conclusion

A. fragrantissima EO is rich in oxygenated volatile compounds with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. It is encouraged as a bioactive agent for adjusting skin infections, though additional studies are essential for their safety in clinical settings.
Widespread 3′UTR capped RNAs derive from G-rich regions in proximity to AGO2 binding sites
Authors: Haberman Nejc , Digby Holly , Faraway Rupert , Cheung Rebecca , Chakrabarti Anob M. , Jobbins Andrew M. , Parr Callum , Yasuzawa Kayoko , Kasukawa Takeya , Yip Chi Wai , Kato Masaki , Takahashi Hazuki , Carninci Piero , Vernia Santiago , Ule Jernej , Sibley Christopher R. , Martinez-Sanchez Aida , Lenhard Boris
Published: November 2024

The 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) plays a crucial role in determining mRNA stability, localisation, translation and degradation. Cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE), a method for the detection of capped 5′ ends of mRNAs, additionally reveals a large number of apparently 5′ capped RNAs derived from locations within the body of the transcript, including 3′UTRs. Here, we provide direct evidence that these 3′UTR-derived RNAs are indeed capped and widespread in mammalian cells. By using a combination of AGO2 enhanced individual nucleotide resolution UV crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (eiCLIP) and CAGE following siRNA treatment, we find that these 3′UTR-derived RNAs likely originate from AGO2-binding sites, and most often occur at locations with G-rich motifs bound by the RNA-binding protein UPF1. High-resolution imaging and long-read sequencing analysis validate several 3′UTR-derived RNAs, showcase their variable abundance and show that they may not co-localise with the parental mRNAs. Taken together, we provide new insights into the origin and prevalence of 3′UTR-derived RNAs, show the utility of CAGE-seq for their genome-wide detection and provide a rich dataset for exploring new biology of a poorly understood new class of RNAs.

Graphical Abstract

Schematic representation of the proposed model where 3′UTR-derived RNAs originate from G-rich regions enriched in AGO2 and UPF1 binding sites.
Meeting report of the seventh annual Tri-Service Microbiome Consortium Symposium
Authors: Liechty Zachary S. , Agans Richard T. , Barbato Robyn A. , Colston Sophie M. , Christian Monica R. , Hammamieh Rasha , Kardish Melissa R. , Karl J. Philip , Leary Dagmar H. , Mauzy Camilla A. , de Goodfellow Ida Pantoja-Feliciano , Racicot Kenneth , Soares Jason W. , Stamps Blake W. , Sweet Charles R. , Tuck Sara M. , Whitman Jordan A. , Goodson Michael S.
Published: November 2024

The Tri-Service Microbiome Consortium (TSMC) was founded to enhance collaboration, coordination, and communication of microbiome research among DoD organizations and to facilitate resource, material and information sharing among consortium members, which includes collaborators in academia and industry. The 2023 annual symposium was a hybrid meeting held in Washington DC on 26–27 September 2023 concurrent with the virtual attendance, with oral and poster presentations and discussions centered on microbiome-related topics within five broad thematic areas: 1) Environmental Microbiome Characterization; 2) Microbiome Analysis; 3) Human Microbiome Characterization; 4) Microbiome Engineering; and 5) In Vitro and In Vivo Microbiome Models. Collectively, the symposium provided an update on the scope of current DoD and DoD-affiliated microbiome research efforts and fostered collaborative opportunities. This report summarizes the presentations and outcomes of the 7th annual TSMC symposium.
Epigenomic biomarkers of cardiometabolic disease: How far are we from daily practice?
Authors: Abou Zaki Ram , Ma Ronald C. W. , El-Osta Assam
Published: November 2024

Determining whether someone has cardiometabolic disease (CMD), especially in the early stages, can be complicated. Risk stratification ordinarily depends on an extended process relying on medical history that typically considers blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking and diabetes status. Physicians have long relied on these key patient characteristics to assess CMD risk. However, these widely used clinical assessments are often identified later in life and by definition, in those individuals with progressed disease. This is partly because the onset of CMD naturally occurs in adulthood, however, the underlying processes can occur much earlier in life, even in the absence of obvious symptoms. For one thing, the pathways towards pathology may exist for years before symptom onset. Thus, among other things, there are opportunities to provide doctors with better insights into future disease prediction especially in younger adults with diabetes. The rapid rise in CMD together with the increased rates of obesity and diabetes in this population only emphasises the importance of predictive molecular biomarkers. One notable aspect is that traditional risk scores, such as those based on cholesterol measurements, are frequently found to be within normal ranges in younger populations. At the same time, given the significant overlap in risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes, the unmet clinical need is for early biomarkers of CMD that may help improve risk assessment in younger adults. This editorial highlights advances in the use of polygenic risk scores and emerging utility of genetic biomarkers to define intermediate CMD phenotypes discussing new classification criteria involving DNA methylation of genes to improve risk assessment. CMD is the number one cause of mortality and accounts for 31% of all global deaths. CMD is also multifactorial, comprising cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes that have significant overlap in risk factors and disease biology. Diabetes is arguably the strongest risk factor for CVD development. Accounting for almost 90% of diabetes cases worldwide, type 2 diabetes (T2D) affects about 527 million people. The global economic burden is estimated at 1.3 trillion USD annually and is close to 1.8% of global GDP [1]. Despite the progress in preventive and therapeutic measures of CVD, the increasing CMD rates only underscore the important need of molecular biomarkers for early detection [2]. Determining whether someone has CMD usually involves an extended diagnostic process that has become essential for risk stratification and disease prevention [3]. While the onset of CMD typically occurs in adulthood, disease development commences much earlier, and this has scientists questioning whether molecular biomarkers could improve current prognostic risk scores. Predicting which people with T2D are most likely to develop CVD remains a significant challenge despite the recent advances in genetic mapping.

Graphical abstract
Concomitant parasite infections influence tuberculosis immunopathology and favor rapid sputum conversion of pulmonary tuberculosis patients
Authors: Yeboah Augustine , Vivekanandan Monikamira , Adankwah Ernest , Owusu Dorcas O. , Aniagyei Wilfred , Minadzi Difery , Acheampong Isaac , Arthur Joseph F. , Lamptey Millicent , Abass Mohammed K. , Kumbel Francis , Osei-Yeboah Francis , Gawusu Amidu , Debrah Linda Batsa , Debrah Alexander , Mayatepek Ertan , Seyfarth Julia , Phillips Richard O. , Jacobsen Marc
Published: November 2024

Immunopathology of human tuberculosis (TB) in a subgroup of patients is characterized by aberrantly high concentrations of inflammatory cytokines, for example Interleukin (IL)-6. Concomitant (co-)infections by parasites can affect host immunity, but the impact on immunopathology in TB patients is poorly defined. Here we characterized a group of patients with TB ( n = 76) from Ghana with different protozoan and helminth co-infections. Plasma cytokines were measured at the onset of disease and anti-mycobacterial treatment efficacy was monitored during disease course. A subgroup of TB patients had co-infections with protozoan (n = 19) or helminth (n = 16) parasites. Plasma analyses for candidate cytokines identified lower levels of IL-6 in parasite co-infected patients with TB. Moreover, it took less time for co-infected patients to become sputum-negative for Mycobacterium tuberculosis during treatment. These results indicated an influence of parasite co-infections on immunopathology in TB and suggested positive effects on treatment efficacy.