bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Adrenal insufficiency in pediatric kidney transplantation recipients
Authors: Chae Hyunwoong Harry , Ahmed Azim , Bone Jeffrey N. , Abdulhussein Fatema S. , Amed Shazhan , Patel Trisha , Blydt‐Hansen Tom D. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundImmunosuppression of pediatric kidney transplant (PKT) recipients often includes corticosteroids. Prolonged corticosteroid exposure has been associated with secondary adrenal insufficiency (AI); however, little is known about its impact on PKT recipients.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort review of PKT recipients to evaluate AI prevalence, risk factors, and adverse effects. AI risk was assessed using morning cortisol (MC) and diagnosis confirmed by an ACTH stimulation test. Potential risk factors and adverse effects were tested for associations with MC levels and AI diagnosis.ResultsFifty‐one patients (60.8% male, age 7.4 (IQR 3.8, 13.1) years; 1 patient counted twice for repeat transplant) were included. Patients at risk for AI (MC < 240 nmol/L) underwent definitive ACTH stimulation testing, confirming AI in 13/51 (25.5%) patients. Identified risk factors for AI included current prednisone dosage (p = .001), 6‐month prednisone exposure (p = .02), daily prednisone administration (p = .002), and rejection episodes since transplant (p = .001). MC level (2.5 years (IQR 1.1, 5.1) post‐transplant) was associated with current prednisone dosage (p < .001), 6‐month prednisone exposure (p = .001), daily prednisone administration (p = .006), rejection episodes since transplant (p = .003), greater number of medications (β = −16.3, p < .001), 6‐month hospitalization days (β = −3.3, p = .013), creatinine variability (β = −2.4, p = .025), and occurrence of acute kidney injury (β = −70.6, p = .01).ConclusionGreater corticosteroid exposure was associated with a lower MC level and confirmatory diagnosis of AI noted with an ACTH stimulation test. Adverse clinical findings with AI included greater medical complexity and kidney function lability. These data support systematic clinical surveillance for AI in PKT recipients treated with corticosteroids.
Personal‐identity non‐cognitivism*
Authors: Miller Kristie 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this paper, I outline and defend a new approach to personal‐identity—personal‐identity non‐cognitivism—and argue that it has several advantages over its cognitivist rivals. On this view utterances of personal‐identity sentences express a non‐cognitive attitude towards relevant person‐stages. The resulting view offers a pleasingly nuanced picture of what we are doing when we utter such sentences.
E‐learning in transfusion medicine: An exploratory qualitative assessment
Authors: Al‐Riyami Arwa Z. , Jensen Kyle , So‐Osman Cynthia , Saxon Ben , Rahimi‐Levene Naomi , Das Soumya , Stanworth Simon J. , Lin Yulia 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesE‐learning programmes are increasingly offered in transfusion medicine (TM) education. The aim of this study was to explore facilitators and barriers to TM e‐learning programmes, including assessment of learning outcomes and measures of effectiveness.Materials and MethodsParticipants selected from a prior survey and representing a diverse number of international e‐learning programmes were invited to participate. A mixed methodology was employed, combining a survey and individual semi‐structured one‐on‐one interviews. Interview data were analysed inductively to explore programme development, evaluation, and facilitators and barriers to implementation.ResultsFourteen participants representing 13 institutions participated in the survey and 10 were interviewed. The e‐learning programmes have been in use for a variable duration between 5 and 16 years. Funding sources varied, including government and institutional support. Learner assessment methods varied and encompassed multiple‐choice‐questions (n = 12), direct observation (n = 4) and competency assessment (n = 4). Most regional and national blood collection agencies rely on user feedback and short‐term learning assessments to evaluate their programmes. Only one respondent indicated an attempt to correlate e‐learning with clinical practices. Factors that facilitated programme implementation included support from management and external audits to ensure compliance with regulatory educational and training requirements. Barriers to programme implementation included the allocation of staff time for in‐house development, enforcing compliance, keeping educational content up‐to‐date and gaining access to outcome data for educational providers.ConclusionThere is evidence of considerable diversity in the evaluation of e‐learning programmes. Further work is needed to understand the ultimate impact of TM e‐learning on transfusion practices and patient outcomes.
Awareness of fish‐borne zoonoses and prevalence of Contracaecum in Oreochromis niloticus and Lates niloticus collected from Lake Chamo, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
Authors: Kaba Tamirat , Shurbe Mesfin , Wondimu Abreham 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAimMany fish species can harbour a wide range of pathogenic agents in their tissues. Of many pathogens, the parasitic nematode of genus Contracaecum, which resides in the tissues of fish species, can results in fish‐borne infections in humans. This study was planned to assess consumers' awareness of fish‐borne zoonoses in the fishing sites of Lake Chamo, Arba Minch, Ethiopia. The study was also aimed at demonstrating the zoonotic nematode, Contracaecum parasites in the Oreochromis niloticus and Lates niloticus fishes collected from Lake Chamo, Arba Minch, Ethiopia.Methods and ResultsAssessment of awareness about fish‐borne zoonoses was conducted in randomly selected participants (n = 162) using face‐to‐face interviews via a structured and semi‐structured questionnaire. Besides, 70 fishes (O. niloticus = 35 and L. niloticus = 35) were examined for the presence of larva of Contracaecum and other anisakid genera through standard dissection, pepsin‐hydrochloric acid digestion and microscopic observation. Consumers have inadequate awareness about fish‐borne zoonoses based on the answers they provided to the questions. The majority of respondents (82%) consume raw fish in the area. Of these, a significantly higher proportion were male (p < 0.001), completed their elementary or high school (p = 0.004), Orthodox Christian (p = 0.044), fishermen (p < 0.001) and participants without previous information about fish‐borne zoonoses (p < 0.001). Overall, of examined fishes (n = 70), n = 15 (21.4%, 95% CI, 12.8–33.2) were infected with Contracaecum larva. A significant (p = 0.028) higher infection prevalence was noted in L. niloticus (34.3%, 95% CI, 19.7–52.3) compared to O. niloticus (8.6%, 95% CI, 2.2–24.2). A unit gram addition in the total weight of fish would significantly raise the risk of Contracaecum infection by 1% (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe presence of Contracaecum, a zoonotic nematode in the fishes, which are often preferred by consumers for raw dishes, designates a high risk of possible fish‐borne infections in the area. Thus, providing education and training for fishermen, visitors of the area, and local people who visit the area for fish consumption, it is inevitably important to minimize the risk. Furthermore, health workers should suspect fish‐borne infections, such as anisakidosis in patients who have a history of raw fish consumption in Arba Minch, Ethiopia.
Epidemiological study of hepatitis E virus infection among students and workers in Hebei Province of China
Authors: Liu Huan , Geng Kunjing , Wang Chunyan , Shi Tengfei , Zhang Hongxin , Zhao Chenyan , Geng Yansheng 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAimsHepatitis E caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV) is prevalent worldwide. In China, considerable shifts in the epidemiology of hepatitis E have been observed over the last two decades, with ongoing changes in the prevalence of HEV.MethodsThis study, in conjunction with the health examinations for students and workers, aims to estimate the seroprevalence and assess the risk factors of HEV infection in general population in Hebei province, China. Epidemiological information was collected using a specific questionnaire and blood samples were collected from each participant during the process of health examination. Anti‐HEV IgG and IgM in sera were tested using the Wantai ELISA assay kits. Logistic regression modelling was used to identify associated risk factors.ResultsThe average positive rate of anti‐HEV IgG in students (6–25 years) was 3.4%. One (0.2%) student was anti‐HEV IgM positive, while also testing positive for IgG. The HEV seroprevalence was not related to students' gender, school, or family residence. In occupational populations, the overall seropositivity rate was 13.3% for anti‐HEV IgG and 0.67% for IgM. HEV seropositivity increased significantly with age, ranging from 3.8% to 18.6% in age groups, and differed significantly among four occupation groups: farmers (17.6%), food supply workers (18.0%), other non‐farm workers (14.7%) and healthcare workers (5.9%) (p = 0.002). Multivariable logistic analysis confirmed the significant correlations of seroprevalence with age and occupation.ConclusionsThe study found a low seroprevalence of HEV in children and young adults in Hebei Province, China. Advanced age correlates with higher seroprevalence in occupational populations, indicating an accumulation of HEV infection over time. Seroprevalence varied significantly among different occupation groups, suggesting the important role of occupational exposure for HEV infection.
Breaking down barriers to bariatric care: a qualitative study on how telemedicine could transform patient experiences in a Swiss monocentric setting
Authors: Poljo Adisa , Tynes Deborah M , Timper Katharina , Süsstrunk Julian , Kraljević Marko , Peterli Ralph , Billeter Adrian T , Müller-Stich Beat P , Klasen Jennifer M 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveTelemedicine is becoming an increasingly feasible option for patients with chronic diseases due to its convenience, cost-effectiveness and ease of access. While there are certain limitations, the benefits can be appreciated by those seeking repetitive care. The perception of telemedicine as an alternative to recurrent, in-person appointments for patients with obesity in structured bariatric programmes is still unclear. This content analysis’ primary endpoint was to explore how patients within our bariatric programme perceived telemedicine and virtual consultations as a new way of communication during COVID-19.DesignA qualitative study using semistructured interviews and qualitative content analysis method by Elo and Kyngäs following four steps: data familiarisation, coding and categorising with Quirkos software and final interpretation guided by developed categories.SettingUniversity Hospital, Switzerland.ParticipantsWe conducted 33 interviews with 19 patients from a structured bariatric programme.ResultsMost patients shared positive experiences, acknowledging the convenience and accessibility of virtual appointments. Others voiced concerns, especially regarding telemedicine’s limitations. These reservations centred around the lack of physical examinations, difficulties in fostering connections with healthcare providers, as well as barriers stemming from language and technology. The research identified a spectrum of patient preferences in relation to telemedicine versus in-person visits, shaped by the immediacy of their concerns and their availability.ConclusionWhile telemedicine is increasingly accepted by the public and provides accessible and cost-effective options for routine follow-up appointments, there are still obstacles to overcome, such as a lack of physical examination and technological limitations. However, integrating virtual alternatives, like phone or video consultations, into routine bariatric follow-ups could improve continuity and revolutionise bariatric care.
Pedestrian safety on the road to net zero: cross-sectional study of collisions with electric and hybrid-electric cars in Great Britain
Authors: Edwards Phil J , Moore Siobhan , Higgins Craig 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundPlans to phase out fossil fuel-powered internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and to replace these with electric and hybrid-electric (E-HE) vehicles represent a historic step to reduce air pollution and address the climate emergency. However, there are concerns that E-HE cars are more hazardous to pedestrians, due to being quieter. We investigated and compared injury risks to pedestrians from E-HE and ICE cars in urban and rural environments.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study of pedestrians injured by cars or taxis in Great Britain. We estimated casualty rates per 100 million miles of travel by E-HE and ICE vehicles. Numerators (pedestrians) were extracted from STATS19 datasets. Denominators (car travel) were estimated by multiplying average annual mileage (using National Travel Survey datasets) by numbers of vehicles. We used Poisson regression to investigate modifying effects of environments where collisions occurred.ResultsDuring 2013–2017, casualty rates per 100 million miles were 5.16 (95% CI 4.92 to 5.42) for E-HE vehicles and 2.40 (95%CI 2.38 to 2.41) for ICE vehicles, indicating that collisions were twice as likely (RR 2.15; 95% CI 2.05 to 2.26) with E-HE vehicles. Poisson regression found no evidence that E-HE vehicles were more dangerous in rural environments (RR 0.91; 95% CI 0.74 to 1.11); but strong evidence that E-HE vehicles were three times more dangerous than ICE vehicles in urban environments (RR 2.97; 95% CI 2.41 to 3.7). Sensitivity analyses of missing data support main findings.ConclusionE-HE cars pose greater risk to pedestrians than ICE cars in urban environments. This risk must be mitigated as governments phase out petrol and diesel cars.
Understanding the Mechanisms of the Gβ5/R7-RGS Complex in Pain Transmission through Single Cell mRNA Profiling
Authors: Mokhasi Neha , Staples Jenna , Zhang Jianhua , Degner Katherine , Pandey Mritunjay , Simonds William 
Published: May 2024

The dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and trigeminal ganglion (TG) contain cell bodies of the peripheral sensory neurons that transmit pain signals from different parts of body to the central nervous system. Peripheral neuropathy and trigeminal neuralgia are common painful conditions that can be caused by pathologies affecting these nerves. Current clinical treatment of these conditions often relies on anticonvulsant drugs with significant neurological side effects. Lack of effective treatments of these conditions highlights the need for better therapeutic approaches. GNB5 encodes the protein Gβ5, a divergent member of the G protein β family, that binds with members (RGS6, 7, 9 and 11) of the R7 subfamily of the regulators of G signaling (R7-RGS) to form obligate Gβ5/R7-RGS complexes. The Gβ5/R7-RGS complex proteins are expressed primarily in neurons including those in the DRG and TG. They function as GTPase-Activating Proteins (GAP) to dampen signaling downstream of Gi/o-coupled receptors. Studies in our lab demonstrated that Adv-Cre+/−; Gnb5fl/fl mice lacking Gnb5 in sensory neurons have significantly reduced mechanical, thermal and chemical nociception. However, RGS7-Cre+/−; Gnb5fl/fl mice lacking Gnb5 in Rgs7 expressing neurons exhibited only diminished mechanical nociception. Additionally, treatment with GABA-B receptor antagonist 2- hydroxysaclofen abolished the inhibition of mechanical nociception in both Advillin- Cre+/-; Gnb5fl/fl and Rgs7-Cre+/-; Gnb5fl/fl mice, implicating the involvement of GABA-B receptor signaling in Gβ5/Rgs7-associated mechanical nociception. To further understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of Gβ5/R7-RGS complex-mediated nociception, we analyzed and compared the expression profiles of the Gβ5/R7-RGS genes in DRG and TG through bioinformatic analysis of publicly available scRNAseq datasets and in situ hybridization of selected genes using RNAscope technology. We found high levels of Gnb5 expression across all sensory neuron cell types while the expressions of members of R7-RGS subfamily showed distinctive patterns among these neuron cell types. Single cell clustering analysis using known neuronal markers revealed that Rgs7 and Rgs11 were highly expressed in majority of neuron types, while Rgs6 and Rgs9 were represented in smaller, more distinct clusters. These results suggest that particular members of R7-RGS gene family might play distinct roles in different types of nociception, a finding that warrants further investigation into the individual mechanisms of each member of this gene family in pain transmission. NIDDK Intramural Research Program ZIA DK043304-29. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.
β-arrestin1/2 are essential for embryonic lymphatic vessel development
Authors: Tian Yanna , Kistner Bryan , Dy Danica , Douglas Elizabeth , Caron Kathleen M 
Published: May 2024

Lymphatic dysfunction can lead to fetal loss due to interstitial edema known as hydrops fetalis during development and lymphedema in adulthood. Lymphedema affects an estimated 250 million individuals worldwide, yet there is no effective treatment available. Numerous studies have established G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) as key lymphangiogenic signaling pathways and ideal druggable therapeutical targets. β-arrestins (β-arrestin 1 and 2) are ubiquitously expressed cytosolic adaptor proteins which perform a wide range of functions in GPCR pathways, such as promoting agonist-induced internalization and forming signaling scaffolds with internalized GPCRs in endosomes. However, the roles of β-arrestins in lymphatic vessel development and function remain undefined. We hypothesize that β-arrestin1/2 are essential in embryonic lymphatic vessel development. To test this hypothesis, I used an inducible β-arrestin1fl/fl (Arrb1 fl/fl), β-arrestin2fl/fl (Arrb2 fl/fl);Prox1 CreERT2 mouse line. β-arrestin1 and 2 were deleted by oral gavage of tamoxifen at embryonic day 10.5 (E10.5) and E12.5, critical points for developmental lymphangiogenesis. Compared to Arrb1/2fl/flembryos, the Arrb1/2fl/fl;Prox1CreERT2 embryos exhibit profound hydrops fetalis, subcutaneous hemorrhages, and increased embryonic lethality between E14.5 and E16.5. At E15.5, the Arrb1/2fl/fl;Prox1CreERT2 embryos with edema show decreased weight indicating growth restriction compared to controls. Jugular lymphatic sacs are enlarged and filled with blood in Arrb1/2fl/fl;Prox1CreERT2 embryos compared to controls. Dermal lymphatic vessel length in the Arrb1/2fl/fl;Prox1CreERT2 embryos is shorter than controls. Collectively, our results demonstrate that loss of β-arrestin1/2 expression in lymphatics causes mid-gestational arrest in lymphatic development and fetal growth restriction, indicating that β-arrestins are required for developmental lymphangiogenesis in mammals. American Physiological Society postdoctoral Fellowship (to YT) and NIH R01 HL129086 (to KMC). This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.
Brown Fat: A Beta Way to Burn Calories, but Which Beta?
Authors: Ewell Taylor , Bomar Matthew , Brown David , Cyphers Reagan , Kwarteng Beatrice , Thomson David , Johnson Blair 
Published: May 2024

Brown fat is a thermogenic tissue that may have therapeutic value for the treatment of obesity and diabetes. That brown fat is under sympathetic control is indisputable, but considerable controversy exists as to which of the beta-adrenergic receptor subtypes, b1AR, b2AR or b3AR, is the primary regulator. The purpose of the current study was to determine if co-administration of the b3AR agonist, mirabegron, would increase energy expenditure and brown fat activation more than non-selective bAR stimulation (isoproterenol) alone. 14 healthy, active young adults (8 males, 6 females) participated in a randomized crossover study. Energy expenditure in a temperature-controlled room (22.1 deg C, 48.5% relative humidity) was determined at rest and after ingestion of placebo or mirabegron (100mg), prior to intravenous administration of isoproterenol (30 minutes at 6, 12, and 24 ng/kg fat free mass/min). Brown fat activity was estimated using supraclavicular skin temperature assessed via infrared thermography. Baseline energy expenditure was not different ( P=0.42) prior to placebo (1487±106 kcal/day; (mean±SE)) and mirabegron (1424±104 kcal/day). Non-selective bAR stimulation increased energy expenditure above baseline (11.6±5.5, 15.2±6.3 and 20.1±6.0%; P<0.05); additional b3AR stimulation did not augment this response (18.0±3.8, 23.2±4.2 and 27.8±4.5%; P>0.05). Baseline supraclavicular skin temperature was not different ( P=0.95) prior to placebo (35.004±0.967◦C) and mirabegron (34.992±0.967◦C). Only the greatest dose of non-selective bAR stimulation increased supraclavicular skin temperature above baseline (0.236±0.082◦C); additional b3AR stimulation did not augment this response (0.100±0.082◦C; P=0.09). Co-administration of a b3AR agonist did not increase energy expenditure and brown fat activation more than non-selective bAR stimulation alone. These preliminary data imply that the b3AR might not be the primary regulator of brown fat activation in humans. Offce of Naval Research N00014-21-1-2276. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.