bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plasma amyloid-β biomarkers for predicting amyloid positivity in mild cognitive impairment: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ataka Takuya , Kimura Noriyuki , Kaneko Naoki , Masuda Teruaki , Takeuchi Yosuke , Yabuuchi Kenichi , Mizukami Takeshi , Takeuchi Tsukasa , Ito Temmei , Tasai Hideaki , Miyagawa Takehiko , Hanai Shunya , Iwamoto Shinichi , Matsubara Etsuro 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to determine the predictive accuracy of amyloid-β precursor protein 669-711/amyloid-β1-42, amyloid-β1-40/1-42, and their composite biomarkers for brain amyloid deposition or the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia in community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment(MCI).
Methods: This was a prospective cohort study conducted from August 2015 to September 2019. Blood samples were collected from older adults aged ≥65 years with MCI without dementia at baseline. Cognitive function and amyloid deposition were evaluated annually. Positron emission tomography was used to evaluate amyloid deposition. Plasma amyloid-β biomarkers were analyzed using immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry. The classification accuracy of plasma biomarkers for brain amyloid status was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Associations of plasma biomarkers with clinical conversion to AD dementia were evaluated using Kaplan‒Meier curves. Associations of plasma biomarkers with body mass index, apolipoprotein E4 status, cortical amyloid uptake, medical history, and hepatic or renal dysfunction were examined using multiple linear regression analysis.
Results: The participants included 107 patients (57 [53.3%] females, median age: 76.00 [72.00–80.00] years). Plasma biomarkers correlated with cortical amyloid uptake. The composite biomarker had the best area under the curve (0.943) for predicting amyloid positivity. Participants with high levels of composite biomarkers at baseline had a greater rate of conversion to AD dementia. Apolipoprotein E4 status and hepatic disorders were significantly correlated with increased plasma amyloid biomarker levels.
Conclusions: Composite amyloid biomarkers may serve as a surrogate measure for amyloid deposition in a community-based cohort.
Trial Registration: UMIN000017442
The Embodied Experiences of Injured Ultra-Runners: A Body-Mapping Study
Authors: Hall Leanne , Rhodes Paul 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The sport of Ultra-running has seen exponential growth over the past ten years. These athletes attempt to push beyond unknown human limits by running for many hours at a time, often multiple times a week across mountains and trails. While research has begun to consider how injury impacts these athletes, less is known about their subjective embodied experiences. In particular, the discourses they resist and submit to when they are suddenly unable to run. This study describes the use of body-mapping and narrative interviewing as two forms of research inquiry merged to explore the embodied experiences of eight ultra-runners who had recently experienced an injury. Plot lines were woven through the visual and textual material resulting in three master plots and eight sub plots. Stories of Body Self-transformation, Machina Carnis or the body-as-machine and senescence or the ageing body were layered by emplacing images and text onto life sized body maps creating vibrant art works. These art works were analysed alongside detailed narratives of endurance, strength, determination and loss. Through the art works participants were able to make visible the invisible, with the injury experience providing a window into former ways of being and current experiences of liminality and fear. This study provides insight into the shifting subjectivities of these extreme athletes brought about by pain and injury and highlights the importance of using power leveling and emancipatory arts-based research methods in accessing subjective experience.
Longevity of hybrid immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in adults vaccinated with an adenovirus- based COVID-19 vaccine
Authors: Mvula Memory , Mtonga Fatima , Mandolo Jonathan , Jowati Chisomo , Kalirani Alice , Chigamba Precious , Lisimba Edwin , Mitole Ndaona , Chibwana Marah G , Jambo Kondwani C 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background.
Hybrid immunity provides better protection against COVID-19 than vaccination or prior natural infection alone. It induces high magnitude and broadly cross-reactive neutralising anti-Spike IgG antibodies. However, it is not clear how long these potent antibodies last, especially in the context of adenovirus-based COVID-19 vaccines.
Methods.
We conducted a longitudinal cohort study and enrolled 20 adults who had received an adenovirus-based COVID-19 vaccine before a laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. We followed up the study participants for 390 days post the initial breakthrough infection. We assessed the longevity and cross-reactive breadth of serum antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs), including Omicron.
Results.
The binding anti-Spike IgG antibodies remained within the reported putative levels for at least 360 days and were cross-neutralising against Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron. During the follow up period, a median of one SARS-CoV-2 re-infection event was observed across the cohort, but none resulted in severe COVID-19. Moreover, the re-exposure events were associated with augmented anti-Spike and anti-RBD IgG antibody titres.
Conclusions.
This study confirms that hybrid immunity provides durable broadly cross-reactive antibody immunity against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern for at least a year (360 days), and that it is further augment by SARS-CoV-2 re-exposure.
Psychometrics of the modified Family-Centered Care Assessment short version for childhood obesity
Authors: Simione Meg , Ferreira Paola , Luo Man , Hoover Clarissa , Perkins Meghan , Fiechtner Lauren , Taveras Elsie M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Incorporating principles of family-centered care into pediatric weight management interventions can improve the effectiveness and quality of treatment and reduce attrition rates. To assess the family-centeredness of interventions, reliable, valid, and easy-to-administer scales are needed. The purpose of the study was to develop a shortened version of the modified Family Centered Care Assessment (mFCCA) and assess its psychometric properties.
Methods: The mFCCA, a scale to assess the family-centeredness of interventions for childhood obesity, was administered to families following the Connect for Health randomized control trial evaluating the effectiveness of a primary care-based pediatric weight management intervention. We iteratively removed items from the mFCCA and used Rasch modeling to examine the reliability and validity of the shortened scale.
Results: We included data from 318 parents and the exploratory factor analysis showed the presence of a single factor. The results of the Rasch modeling demonstrated acceptable internal consistency of the scale (0.7) and strong validity as evidenced by the overall model fit and range of item difficulty. Following the psychometric analyses, we reduced the number of items from 24 to 8 items.
Conclusions: The mFCCA short version demonstrates good psychometrics and can be used to evaluate the family-centeredness of childhood obesity interventions with reduced participant burden, thereby improving outcomes for children with obesity.
Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02124460 registered on April 24, 2014
Molecular biomarkers of response to sintilimab combined with lenvatinib for locally advanced hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Lijun , Cui Yong , Huang Longfei , Wang Hongwei , Liu Ming , Jin Kemin , Wang Kun , Xing Baocai 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: The efficacy of combining immune checkpoint inhibitors with anti-angiogenic drugs in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) varies, and the predictive biomarkers for this therapy remain unclear.
Methods: In this single-center study in China, patients with HCC ineligible for traditional resection were administered sintilimab on day 1 of a 21-day cycle, accompanied by daily oral lenvatinib. Treatment responses were assessed using the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST). Tumor biopsies underwent RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), immune microenvironment analysis, and whole-exome sequencing (WES). Survival analyses also incorporated data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and a multivariate Cox regression analysis was conducted to identify potential therapeutic factors.
Results: From August 1, 2018, to November 25, 2021, 33 patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated HCC were enrolled. By January 30, 2024, 13 patients had undergone potentially curative surgery or radiofrequency ablation. RNA-seq identified 94 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the 22 patients in the response group and the 11 in the non-response group. High expression levels of LINC01554 and WHRN were linked to prolonged progression-free survival (PFS).
The analysis of immune microenvironment differences and correlation with DEGs showed a positive association with patient responses for cell types such as pro-B, class-switched memory B, plasma, CD4+ Tcm, Th1, and NKT cells. However, only the status of CD4+ Tcm approached statistical significance (P < 0.10); other immune cells did not. In the WES analysis, a significant FANCD2 mutation (P < 0.05) was found, and a CUX1 mutation was associated with shorter PFS. Neither mutation correlated with liver cancer survival in the TCGA-liver cancer dataset. The Cox regression analysis indicated that a single tumor (P = 0.02, hazard ratio (HR) = 0.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.11-0.85), high LINC01554 expression level (P = 0.01, HR = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.05-0.49) and higher CD4+ Tcm score (P = 0.05, HR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.08-0.98) were independent predictors of prolonged PFS.
Conclusions:Treatment with sintilimab plus lenvatinib can lead to varied responses in HCC patients. High levels of lncRNA LINC01554 and CD4+ Tcm, along with a single tumor, suggest improved disease control.
Predictive Value of Preoperative Serum Prealbumin Levels for Postoperative Complications and Survival Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Malignant Bowel Obstruction: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Weng Zongqi , Lai Jinhong , Wang Kangmei , Chen Zishan , Chen Hongbin , Yu Hongxi , Chen Xianqiang , Lin Yuyuan , Lin Mengxin , Pan Jie 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) is a common complication in advanced abdominal cancer patients, characterized by a high overall incidence and poor prognosis. Postoperative complications are particularly frequent, with a low postoperative survival rate. The preoperative nutritional status of patients, especially the prealbumin (PA) levels, is significantly correlated with postoperative issues and long-term prognosis. This study aimed to assess the predictive value of the preoperative prealbumin (PA) concentration for postoperative complications and long-term survival in patients with malignant bowel obstruction (MBO). Methods Single-factor and multifactor logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for severe complications and infectious complications. Moreover, univariate and multivariate stratified Cox regression analyses were employed to identify independent risk factors for overall survival (OS), and corresponding nomograms were created. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were generated for grouped data with statistically significant differences. The area under the curve (AUC) was compared to assess the testing efficacy of different nutritional indicators for severe postoperative complications. Results There was a statistically significant difference in the comparison of overall complications and infectious complications between the two groups for different Clavien-Dindo (CD) grades (p < 0.001). Specifically, the incidence of complications with CD grade ≥ 3 in the superlow PA group was higher (p<0.001), and a gradual increase in the severity of overall and postoperative infectious complications was observed with decreasing PA levels (p < 0.001). PA (p < 0.001) and intestinal stent placement (p = 0.015) were identified as independent influencing factors for early postoperative severe complications (CD grade ≥ 3), while PA was identified as an independent influencing factor for postoperative infectious complications (p < 0.001). Cox regression analysis stratified by TNM stage revealed that age, sex, surgical method, and postsurgical chemotherapy were independent predictors of OS. Compared to indicators such as the FPR and AFP, PA demonstrated the highest testing efficiency (AUC = 0.888). Conclusion Preoperative PA has significant predictive value for early postoperative complications and overall survival in patients with MBO, providing new insights into perioperative nutritional intervention and surgical approach selection for these patients.
The Global, Regional, and National Patterns of Change in the Burden of Pyoderma from 1990 to 2019 and the Forecast for the Next Decade
Authors: Wang Hao , Bai Zihao , Shen Chong , Kou Jiaxi , Zhu Yanqing , Xie Huaxia , Chen Chen , Mo Ran 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Pyoderma, commonly known as impetigo, is a bacterial skin infection causing pus formation, prevalent globally, especially in resource-poor areas. It affects both children and adults, including those with conditions like diabetes. Despite its significant impact and economic burden, research on its global epidemiology is limited. This study aims to address this gap by analyzing pyoderma trends from 1990 to 2019 using GBD data.
Objectives
The study aims to analyze global trends in pyoderma epidemiology from 1990 to 2019 using GBD data. Specifically, it investigates Age-Standardized Incidence Rate (ASIR), Mortality Rate (ASMR), and Disability-Adjusted Life Years Rate (ASDR) across 204 countries. Additionally, it provides insights into demographic and socioeconomic factors influencing pyoderma prevalence. Furthermore, it forecasts pyoderma's development trends for the next decade to inform public health strategies.
Methods
Data were sourced from the GBD 2019 database, comprising various sources such as censuses, surveys, and registries. Estimates for pyoderma incidence, mortality, and DALYs, along with their 95% uncertainty intervals (UI), were retrieved. The Sociodemographic Index (SDI) was used to assess socioeconomic status, and statistical calculations were performed using the WHO Health Equity Assessment Toolkit and R software (v4.3.2).
Results
From 1990 to 2019, the Age-Standardized Incidence Rate (ASIR) and Age-Standardized Mortality Rate (ASMR) of impetigo increased, while the Age-Standardized Disability-Adjusted Life Years Rate (ASDR) declined. Significant global geographical heterogeneity persists, closely associated with the Sociodemographic Index (SDI). Children under 5 and the elderly are particularly at risk, with lower SDI nations bearing higher burdens. Population growth and aging contribute to this rise, with disparities in impetigo trends persisting among countries and regions with varying SDI levels, expected to continue until 2030.
Conclusions
Pyoderma exhibits significant heterogeneity across age, gender, and geography, with pronounced disparities evident in underdeveloped regions or countries. Therefore, prioritizing policy formulation and implementing tailored prevention and treatment strategies for high-risk populations are imperative to alleviate the disease burden effectively. Such targeted approaches are crucial in addressing the global impact of pyoderma.
Increased levels of antibodies to synaptopodin and annexin 1 in patients with primary podocytopathies
Authors: NV Chebotareva , EA Charionovskaya , EA Biryukova , AA Vinogradov , II Alentov , NS Sergeeva , AS Kononikhin , EN Nikolaev , SV Moiseev , Chebotareva Natalia 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Circulating anti-podocyte antibodies have been proposed as potential factors contributing to increased permeability in primary podocytopathies, such as Minimal Change Disease (MCD) and Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The aim of the study was to to assess the levels of antibodies targeting synaptopodin and annexin 1 in the blood serum of patients diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, with the aim of evaluating their potential utility in diagnosing primary podocytopathies and predicting therapeutic response. Methods: The study included a total of 72 patients diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, alongside 21 healthy subjects for comparison. Among the patients, 38 were diagnosed with FSGS, 12 with MCD, and 22 with MN. The levels of anti-synaptopodin and anti-annexin-1 antibodies were quantified using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Results: The levels of antibodies to annexin 1 and anti-synaptopodin in the blood were found to be higher in patients diagnosed with MCD and FSGS compared to those with MN and healthy individuals. The elevated levels of antibodies to annexin 1 and synaptopodin showed area under the curve values of 0.826 (95% CI 0.732–0.923) and 0.827 (95% CI 0.741–0.879), respectively. However, a model incorporating both antibodies demonstrated higher sensitivity (80.9%) and specificity (81.3%) with an AUC of 0.859 (95% CI 0.760–0.957). Notably, serum levels of annexin 1 and anti-synaptopodin antibodies did not predict the response to prednisolone and/or CNI therapy. Conclusion. Levels of antibodies targeting synaptopodin and annexin 1 were notably elevated in patients diagnosed with MCD and FSGS compared to those with MN and healthy controls. A panel comprising both antibodies demonstrated moderate to high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis MCD or FSGS.
A Dynamic Flow Fetal Membrane Organ-on-a-Chip System for Modeling the Effects of Amniotic Fluid Motion
Authors: Kim Sungjin , Lam Po Yi , Richardson Lauren , Menon Ramkumar , Han Arum 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Fetal membrane(amniochorion), the innermost lining of the intrauterine cavity, surround the fetus and enclose amniotic fluid. Unlike unidirectional blood flow, amniotic fluid subtly rocks back and forth, and thus, the innermost amnion epithelial cells are continuously exposed to low levels of shear stress from fluid undulation. Here, we tested the impact of fluid motion on amnion epithelial cells (AECs) as a bearer of force impact and their potential vulnerability to cytopathologic changes that can destabilize fetal membrane functions. An amnion membrane (AM) organ-on-chip (OOC) was utilized to culture human fetal amnion membrane cells. The applied flow was modulated to perfuse culture media back and forth for 48 hours flow culture to mimic fluid motion. Static culture condition was used as a negative control, and oxidative stress (OS) condition was used as a positive control for pathophysiological changes. The impacts of fluidic motion were evaluated by measuring cell viability, cellular transition, and inflammation. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging was performed to observe microvilli formation. The results show that regardless of the applied flow rate, AECs and AMCs maintained their viability, morphology, innate meta-state, and low production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. E-cadherin expression and microvilli formation in the AECs were upregulated in a flow rate-dependent fashion; however, this did not impact cellular morphology or cellular transition or inflammation. OS treatment induced a mesenchymal morphology, significantly higher vimentin to CK-18 ratio, and pro-inflammatory cytokine production in AECs, whereas AMCs did not respond in any significant manner. Fluid motion and shear stress, if any, did not impact AEC cell function and did not cause inflammation. Thus, when using an amnion membrane OOC model, the inclusion of a flow culture environment is not necessary to mimic any in utero physiologic cellular conditions of fetal membrane-derived cells.
The prevalence of metabolic syndrome and associated factors among adults on antiretroviral therapy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Yusufu Innocent , Nagu Tumaini , Ottaru Theresia A. , Sando Mary Mmwanyika , Kaaya Sylvia , Mbugi Erasto , Hirschhorn Lisa R , Hawkins Claudia 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Adults living with HIV (ALHIV) are at increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MetS). Several factors are associated with an increase in MetS in these individuals, including certain antiretroviral therapies (ART). There is limited data on the prevalence of MetS among ALHIV in sub-Saharan Africa following scale up of newer integrase inhibitor-containing ART regimens.
Objective
We assessed the prevalence and correlates of MetS among ALHIV patients receiving tenofovir, lamivudine, and dolutegravir (TLD) in Tanzania.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of ALHIV aged >18 enrolled in a cardiovascular health study at six HIV Care and Treatment Clinics from 11/2020-1/2021 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. MetS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the results, and logistic regression was used to assess demographic, behavioral, and HIV-related risk factors associated with MetS. Covariates with a p-value <0.2 at the univariate level were included in the multivariate model.
Results
Three hundred and eighty nine participants were included in the analysis. The mean age (SD) was 43 years (±11) years, and 286 (73.5%) were female. The prevalence of MetS in this population was 21%. In univariate analysis, MetS components that were significantly higher among women vs. men included abdominal obesity (27.3% vs. 4.9%), reduced HDL (77.9% vs. 53.4% ), and elevated glucose (18.5% vs. 14.6%), all p< 0.05. Age> 50 yrs [AOR 3.25; (95% CI 1.80-5.84), p < 0.01] and BMI [AOR 0.16; (95% CI 0.09-0.30), P < 0.01] were both associated with an increased odds of MetS in multivariate analyses.
Conclusion
MetS. is prevalent among Tanzanian ALHIV on TLD. Routine screening for MetS and healthy lifestyle promotion, particularly among women and those aging, should be a priority to prevent against cardiovascular disease. Further studies are needed to monitor the long-term impact of these newer ART regimens on MetS and CVD.