Research Update Research Articles

Burden of pediatric hydrocephalus in a Latin American upper-middle-income country: a nationwide ecological study in Colombia.

Pediatric hydrocephalus is a common complex condition, in which late diagnosis can cause irreversible sequelae. The prevalence worldwide is estimated to be approximately 88/100,000, but the literature suggests it is higher in developing countries, with predominantly postinfectious etiologies. The incidence has been found to be inversely associated with a country's income level. South America is among the regions considered most affected by this disease, but very few recent prevalence studies exist. This is the first prevalence study of pediatric hydrocephalus in Colombia, an upper-middle-income country. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of pediatric hydrocephalus (ages 0 to 17 years) in Colombia between 2017 and 2022 and to determine its national distribution. A search of the Colombian System of Integrated Information of Social Protection was performed, using International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes to extract the Individual Registries for Provision of Health Services. These data were compared to those in the population registries of the National Administrative Department of Statistics. Prevalence for each code was calculated, and distribution according to age group, sex, and department was made. Yearly and overall prevalence rates were graphed on nationwide maps throughout the study period years. The authors found a nationwide prevalence of 57.2/100,000, with an underreporting rate for all cases of 31.3%. The adjusted prevalence for underreporting was 83.0 cases per 100,000. A total of 55% of cases were in male patients. The reported causes of hydrocephalus were as follows: 24.9% of cases were due to postinfectious etiologies, 9.9% were attributed to CNS malformations, 0.3% were posttraumatic, and 0.3% were neoplastic. In most cases, etiology was not reported. The maps created show a heterogeneous prevalence distribution through the years. The adjusted prevalence rate map shows a prevalence distribution with higher rates in lower-income regions. In this study, the estimated prevalence of pediatric hydrocephalus in Colombia was lower than the prevalence estimated worldwide, and even lower than that estimated for high-income areas. This is explained partially by a significant rate of underreporting; however, even accounting for the underreporting, the prevalence remains considerably lower than that estimated for developing regions like South America. This may suggest a trend of decreasing prevalence in developing countries whose economies have grown in recent years. These findings can guide public policy for adequate surveillance and prevention of pediatric hydrocephalus in Colombia and highlight the importance of further updated research in the region.

Olaparib research update: mechanism, structure and clinical trials

Olaparib research update: mechanism, structure and clinical trials

Systematic Review: Fragile X Syndrome Across the Lifespan with a Focus on Genetics, Neurodevelopmental, Behavioral and Psychiatric Associations

Background/Objectives: Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is one of the most common genetic causes of intellectual developmental disability and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), second only to Down’s syndrome and associated with a broad range of neurodevelopmental, behavioral, and psychiatric challenges. FXS may be present in infants or young children with characteristic dysmorphic features, developmental delays, and behavioral challenges. The diagnosis of FXS is confirmed by the molecular genetic testing of the FMR1 gene encoding fragile X messenger RNA-binding protein (FMRP), involved in regulating the translation of multiple mRNAs which play a key role in neuronal development and synaptic plasticity. Understanding the genetic cause, pathophysiology, and natural history of FXS is crucial for identifying commonly associated comorbidities, instituting effective therapeutic interventions, and improving long-term outcomes. Methods: This systematic review employed a comprehensive literature search using multiple electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus with keywords related to fragile X syndrome, lifespan, genetics, neurodevelopmental, behavioral, and psychiatric disorders. Results: FXS is associated with an increased risk for specific neurodevelopmental, or psychiatric disorders. Symptoms and challenges associated with FXS vary based on multiple factors, including genetic differences, age, sex, comorbid conditions, various environmental influences, the availability of support, and opportunities for therapeutic interventions. Knowledge of these associations helps guide caregivers and clinicians in identifying potentially treatable conditions that can help to improve the lives of affected patients and their families. Conclusions: The focus of this article is to explore and describe the genetic underpinnings of FXS, identify associated developmental, behavioral, and psychiatric conditions over the lifespan, and provide a review of clinical features, therapeutic interventions including investigational treatments, and current research updates.

Organic Phosphorus in the Terrestrial Environment: an Update on Current Research and Future Directions

Abstract In 2016, a group of experts convened to set priorities for organic phosphorus (P) research, addressing global issues, methodological strengths and weaknesses, and the benefits of understanding the organic P cycle. Seven years later, scientists and students with an interest in organic P reconvened to discuss progress and new insights, and this review highlights recent major research updates. Interest in organic P research has increased since 2016, and new priorities have emerged, including the impact of climate change on organic P, the influence of geopolitical crises on P supplies, and the adoption of sustainable practices like regenerative agriculture. Climate change was a central theme in the 2023 discussions, with an increased emphasis on integrating P and especially organic P into climate change research, which has traditionally focused more on carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). The discussions highlighted disparities in accessing analytical equipment globally, and its consequent impact on research quality and scope. To address these issues, coordinated efforts involving the research community, government policies, and international cooperation are needed, much the same as we see with the climate and biodiversity crises. Promoting sustainable agricultural practices, investing in soil health, and enhancing education and extension services are crucial. Future research should focus on standardizing analytical methods, integrating nutrient balance into models, and exploring soil-microbiome-plant interactions. Regular and intedisciplinary workshops, social media engagement, and the establishment of research networks are recommended to maintain momentum in organic P research. Raising public and stakeholder awareness about the importance of organic P is essential for advancing knowledge in this area.

Efforts to Improve Class V IPS Learning Outcomes Through the Implementation of the Problem Based Learning Method at State Elementary School

Research Objective: To improve students' learning outcomes in social studies. By implementing the Problem Based Learning (PBL) method to help students understand social studies concepts better. Methodology: This research is a Classroom Action Research (CAR) consisting of four stages of activities, namely: (1) planning stage, (2) action implementation stage, (3) observation stage, and (4) evaluation stage and reflection. The research sample was fifth grade students at SDN 143 Tamiai, with research instruments namely observation, documentation and tests. Main Findings: The results of the study showed that in the pre-cycle, students' learning completeness reached 27.58%. There was an increase of 20.69% in the implementation of cycle I. In cycle II, there was an increase of 37.93% or learning completeness of 86.20%. Thus, it is proven that the use of the Problem Based Learning learning model can improve students' learning outcomes. Research Update: This research strengthens the relationship between the Problem Based Learning model and learning outcomes, especially in social studies lessons.

Advancing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Research: Insights from Transgenic Animal Models and Innovative Therapies.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a prevalent, chronic, and severe neuropsychiatric disorder that leads to illness-related disability. Despite the availability of several treatments, many OCD patients respond inadequately, because the underlying neural mechanisms remain unclear, necessitating the establishment of many animal models, particularly mouse models, to elucidate disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies better. Although the development of animal models is ongoing, there remain many comprehensive summaries and updates in recent research, hampering efforts to develop novel treatments and enhance existing interventions. This review summarizes the phenotypes of several commonly used models and mechanistic insights from transgenic models of OCD, such as knockout mouse models. In addition, we present the advantages and limitations of these models and discuss their future in helping further understand the pathophysiology and advanced treatment. Here, we highlight current frontline treatment approaches for OCD, including neuromodulation and surgical interventions, and propose potential future directions. By studying gene mutations and observing phenotypes from available OCD animal models, researchers have classified the molecular signatures of each model reminiscent of changes in brain areas and neural pathways, with the hope of guiding the future selection of the most appropriate models for specific research in the OCD field.

An update in recent research on nicotine contamination and nicotine-degrading microorganisms.

Nicotine is a toxic and addictive alkaloid found in tobacco and tobacco products that is harmful to human health and is an environmental pollutant. Nicotine-degrading microorganisms are unique microorganisms with the ability to use nicotine molecules as their sole source of nitrogen and carbon needed for growth. They are capable of degrading nicotine into less toxic or non-toxic metabolites. This review describes the environment's primary nicotine contamination sources and potential hazards. It also summarizes various types of nicotine-degrading microorganisms, their optimal culture conditions, and degradation efficiency. Four different catabolic pathways of nicotine in microorganisms are discussed, and the applications of nicotine-degrading microorganisms in different fields, such as the tobacco, pharmaceutical, and environmental protection industries, are outlined. This review describes the hazards of nicotine and the current research and application of nicotine-degrading microorganisms. It provides a theoretical reference for future research on nicotine-degrading microorganisms and their applications.

Chinese Translation and Validation of the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaires on Overuse Injuries and Health Problems.

The importance of monitoring both physical and mental health in athletes across different levels of sport is increasingly acknowledged due to potential injury risks. However, for the Chinese-speaking population, there has not yet been an appropriate assessment tool available. To translate, culturally adapt, and assess the validity and reliability of the Chinese versions of the updated Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Overuse Injury Questionnaire (OSTRC-O2) and the Health Problems Questionnaire (OSTRC-H2) among Taiwanese collegiate athletes. Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence: 3. The OSTRC-O2 and OSTRC-H2 questionnaires were translated from English to Chinese following international guidelines. Subsequently, 80 and 84 collegiate athletes, respectively, were invited to complete these questionnaires on a weekly basis for 8 weeks. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach alpha coefficient, while test-retest reliability was assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Severity scores from the questionnaires were also documented. High response rates of 90% (n = 72/80) and 90.5% (n = 76/84) were achieved in the OSTRC-O2.CH and OSTRC-H2.CH groups, respectively, demonstrating strong acceptance among athletes, with no significant issues in back-translation. High content validity was observed across the different body parts in the translated OSTRC-O2, with Cronbach alpha values of .82, .83, .82, and .83 for the knee, shoulder, elbow, and lower back, respectively. The translated OSTRC-H2 also showed excellent internal consistency, with a Cronbach alpha of .95. The ICC values for test-retest reliability were 0.88, 0.82, 0.92, and 0.92 for the knee, shoulder, elbow, and lower back in the OSTRC-O2, and the ICC for the OSTRC-H2 was 0.90, indicating very good reliability for both questionnaires. The Chinese versions of the OSTRC questionnaires were found to be valid and reliable for monitoring overuse injuries and health issues among Chinese-speaking collegiate athletes.

Towards sustainable food packaging using natural compounds: A review of current research update

Towards sustainable food packaging using natural compounds: A review of current research update

Hydrochemical regime of some lakes of Kokshetau upland

The hydrochemical indicators of lakes Imantau, Shalkar (North-Kazakhstan region), Zerenda, Kopa (Akmola region) located on the Kokshetau upland for 2022-2023 are shown in the article. Lake Zerenda, Imantau, Shalkar - the largest water reservoir of STNP "Kokshetau". Lake Kopa is located in the center of Kokshetau, in the most urbanized area of the region. Between the studied years, there is a change in some indicators, as well as indicators exceeding the MPC. In connection with the increase in anthropogenic load on water bodies, it is important to update research annually, and hydrobiological research with hydrochemical parameters is also conducted. An increase in the amount of ammonium ions is noted in lakes Zerendа, Kopa, Imantau and Shalkar, which is a sign of pollution by organic substances. In addition, sharp changes in the chemical composition of water are observed in Lake Shalkar, where a sharp increase in mineralization is observed, which requires further studies of the state of the reservoir. The chemical composition of Lake Zerendа is relatively stable, but there is a high concentration of sodium and potassium exceeding the MPC. The levels of magnesium and calcium are also higher than normal, which indicates a higher level of minerals in the water.

Metabolomics-Driven Biomarker Discovery for Breast Cancer Prognosis and Diagnosis

Breast cancer is a cancer with global prevalence and a surge in the number of cases with each passing year. With the advancement in science and technology, significant progress has been achieved in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer to make ends meet. The scientific intradisciplinary subject of “metabolomics” examines every metabolite found in a cell, tissue, system, or organism from different sources of samples. In the case of breast cancer, little is known about the regulatory pathways that could be resolved through metabolic reprogramming. Evidence related to the significant changes taking place during the onset and prognosis of breast cancer can be obtained using metabolomics. Innovative metabolomics approaches identify metabolites that lead to the discovery of biomarkers for breast cancer therapy, diagnosis, and early detection. The use of diverse analytical methods and instruments for metabolomics includes Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, LC/MS, UPLC/MS, etc., which, along with their high-throughput analysis, give insights into the metabolites and the molecular pathways involved. For instance, metabolome research has led to the discovery of the glutamate-to-glutamate ratio and aerobic glycolysis as biomarkers in breast cancer. The present review comprehends the updates in metabolomic research and its processes that contribute to breast cancer prognosis and metastasis. The metabolome holds a future, and this review is an attempt to amalgamate the present relevant literature that might yield crucial insights for creating innovative therapeutic strategies aimed at addressing metastatic breast cancer.

Development and validation of social issues advocacy scale 2-short form

ABSTRACT The Social Issues Advocacy Scale (SIAS) was published in 2011 as a tool to assess attitudes and behaviors associated with social justice advocacy. The scale was later revised to reflect updated theories and research, resulting in the 78-item scale, SIAS-2. Given the length of SIAS-2, this article reports on three studies with the aims to shorten the number of items and provide reliability and validity data. In Study 1, we developed SIAS-2 Short Form, consisting of 38 items and 8 subscales, measuring different aspects of social justice advocacy, replicating the scale structure of SAIS-2. In Study 2, we confirmed the scale structure, using confirmatory factor analysis, and examined construct validity. As expected, SIAS-2 SF was positively associated with political engagement, cultural openness, social justice self-efficacy, and engagement, and negatively associated with belief in a just world and cultural dominance. Total scale Cronbach’s alpha was .94 (subscale alphas: .74–.87). As in Study 3, we examined test–retest reliability, with a score of r = .84 for the total scale score. The results revealed a 38-item scale with 8 subscales that appears valid and presents with good to excellent internal reliability. Limitations and implications are addressed.

Complications following miniplate insertion in maxillofacial fractures: a systematic review

Background Maxillofacial fractures, frequently arising from road traffic incidents, falls, and acts of interpersonal aggression, are a considerable public health issue, exhibiting diverse epidemiological patterns according to demographic factors. The application of miniplates for fracture stabilization is a recognized technique, with innovative methods such as 3D plate systems emerging. Nonetheless, consequences including infections and hardware malfunctions persist. This systematic review seeks to present current evidence regarding the complications linked to miniplate placement in maxillofacial fractures over the last ten years. Methods A systematic review was performed in accordance with PRISMA principles. Databases such as the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Scopus were examined from September 2014 to September 2024. Studies documenting problems related to miniplate placement were included, without language constraints. The ROBINS-I tool was utilized for non-randomized studies, whereas the Cochrane risk of bias tool was applied to randomized controlled trials. Results From 2,289 initially found studies, 56 satisfied the inclusion criteria. Among these, 28 employed interventional designs, whilst the remaining 28 were observational research. The predominant problems documented in several investigations encompassed infection, wound dehiscence, malocclusion, paraesthesia, malunion/non-union, segment movement, hardware failure, and palpable hardware. Advanced methodologies such as 3D plate systems and locking mechanisms were linked to diminished complication rates. Conclusion This systematic analysis presents a decade of updated research about problems associated with miniplate placement in maxillofacial fractures. Novel methodologies such as 3D plate systems and locking mechanisms demonstrate promise in mitigating problems relative to conventional techniques. These findings can facilitate informed decision-making in clinical practice. Additional study utilizing standardized outcomes and prospective designs is essential to enhance comprehension of the long-term effects of miniplate utilization.

Editorial Comment on “Updated Research Publication Standards and Expectations for Successful Matching in Urology Residency Following Step 1 Scoring Changes”

Editorial Comment on “Updated Research Publication Standards and Expectations for Successful Matching in Urology Residency Following Step 1 Scoring Changes”

An Overview of Metallic Nanoparticles: Classification, Synthesis, Applications, and their Patents.

Nanotechnology has gained enormous attention in pharmaceutical research. Nanotechnology is used in the development of nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 1-100 nm, with several extraordinary features. Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) are used in various areas, such as molecular biology, biosensors, bio imaging, biomedical devices, diagnosis, pharmaceuticals, etc., for their specific applications. For this study, we have performed a systematic search and screening of the literature and identified the articles and patents focusing on various physical, chemical, and biological methods for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles and their pharmaceutical applications. A total of 174 references have been included in this present review, of which 23 references for recent patents were included. Then, 29 papers were shortlisted to describe the advantages, disadvantages, and physical and chemical methods for their synthesis, and 28 articles were selected to provide the data for biological methods for the formulation of metal NPs from bacteria, algae, fungi, and plants with their extensive synthetic procedures. Moreover, 27 articles outlined various clinical applications of metal NPs due to their antimicrobial and anticancer activities and their use in drug delivery. Several reviews are available on the synthesis of metal nanoparticles and their pharmaceutical applications. However, this review provides updated research data along with the various methods employed for their development. It also summarizes their various advantages and clinical applications (anticancer, antimicrobial drug delivery, and many others) for various phytoconstituents. The overview of earlier patents by several scientists in the arena of metallic nanoparticle preparation and formulation is also presented. This review will be helpful in increasing the current knowledge and will also inspire to innovation of nanoparticles for the precise and targeted delivery of phytoconstituents for the treatment of several diseases.

Using Cannabis and CBD to Sleep: An Updated Review.

Cannabis sativa and constituent cannabinoids are in widespread use for the treatment of sleep disorders where many patients desire pharmacotherapy. Previous reviews highlight a lack of high-quality evidence to support the efficacy and long-term safety of cannabinoids in various conditions. We aim to provide an update of recent original research evaluating cannabinoid-based therapeutics in sleep disorders. We identified twenty-one recent studies of cannabinoids for insomnia, subjective sleep impairment, obstructive sleep apnoea, rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, and restless legs syndrome. We note trends towards the use of minor cannabinoids, studies using decentralised approaches and increased utilisation of objective measures in clinical trials. The evidence-base does not match widespread use of cannabinoids for the treatment of sleep disorders. There is a growing need for adequately funded well-designed clinical trials with longer treatment durations and decent sample sizes to inform both the clinician and patient.

Validation of American College of Radiology Bone Reporting and Data System (Bone-RADS) Version 2023 for diagnosis of malignant tumors of appendicular bone on conventional radiographs

PurposeTo evaluate the diagnostic performance of the American College of Radiology(ACR) Bone Reporting and Data System (Bone-RADS) in diagnosis of malignant tumors of the appendicular bone on conventional radiographs. MethodsPrimary and secondary tumors of appendicular bone in patients who underwent radiographic and MRI examinations were classified into benign, intermediate, and malignant using a reference standard of histopathology, imaging follow-up, or clinical-radiologic consensus. Two radiologists assessed five radiographic features (margin, periosteal reaction, endosteal erosion, pathologic fracture, and extra-osseous mass), scored point total (points from radiographic features and a history of cancer), and assigned Bone-RADS categories. The diagnostic performance of Bone-RADS and interreader agreements were calculated. ResultsA total of 778 patients (507 benign, 45 intermediate, and 226 malignant tumors) were included. Bone-RADS showed high discrimination performance, with areas under the receiver-operating characteristics curve of 0.940–0.957 for point total and 0.895–0.900 for categorization. Bone-RADS had high sensitivity (95.2 %–99.1 %) and negative predictive value (NPV) (96.4 %–99.5 %), but relatively low specificity (65.0 %–68.6 %) and positive predictive value (PPV) (53.7 %–61.9 %). Interreader agreements were good to excellent for Bone-RADS point total (ICC = 0.850), categorization (k = 0.739), and most of the radiographic features (k = 0.621–0.822), except for endosteal erosion (k = 0.537) and extra-osseous mass (k = 0.234). ConclusionIn diagnosis of malignant bone tumors, ACR Bone-RADS showed high discrimination performance, with high sensitivity and NPV, but relatively low specificity and PPV. Nevertheless, relatively low interobserver agreement in some radiographic features and the consensus-based points system in Bone-RADS warrant further research and possible updates.

Research Updates and Advances on Flavonoids Derived from Dandelion and Their Antioxidant Activities.

As a common medicinal and edible plant, dandelion plays a crucial and significant role in the fields of traditional Chinese medicines, functional foods, healthcare products, daily chemicals, and feed additives, which are closely related to its rich chemical constituents and remarkable biological activities. Modern studies have demonstrated that dandelion contains all kinds of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, amino acids, fatty acids, organic acids, phenolic acids, coumarins, lignans, polysaccharides, phytosterols, terpenes, glycoproteins, oligosaccharides, alkaloids, etc. Meanwhile, dandelion has been proven to possess antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antivirus, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic properties, as well as the ability to regulate hormone levels and protect some visceral organs. Among them, flavonoids derived from dandelion and their antioxidant activities have received considerable attention. This study reviews dandelion flavonoids and their in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities by consulting and organizing relevant domestic and international works of literature to provide a scientific and theoretical basis for further research, development, and utilization of dandelion.

Case Salience in the State Supreme Courts: A Research Update

Abstract In this research, we update the measure of case salience for state supreme courts originally developed by Vining and Wilhelm (2011). The original measure was compatible with the Brace-Hall State Supreme Court Data Project (SSCDP) and covered 1995 through 1998. Our updated measure is now compatible with the Hall–Windett Data on State Supreme Court Outcomes (2013), a more contemporary source for state supreme court information. Here we discuss the new dataset of salient cases from 1995 to 2019 and provide descriptive statistics.

HIV Clinical Providers' Awareness, Attitudes, and Willingness to Support Patient Outreach Efforts for HIV Cure-Directed Research in Philadelphia, United States.

Ethical patient outreach is critical for engaging patients with HIV in HIV cure-directed research. We sought to examine HIV clinical providers' awareness of current HIV cure-directed research strategies investigated through the Martin Delaney Collaboratories (MDC) and providers' attitudes toward patient outreach for HIV cure-directed research and to identify opportunities for clinical provider education on MDC research strategies. We conducted a 1-time, cross-sectional, web-based survey with 64 HIV clinical providers (physicians, physician assistants, and nurses) in Philadelphia. A descriptive analysis was generated to determine clinical providers' awareness of MDC research strategies and attitudes toward patient outreach. Bivariate analyses were conducted to evaluate differences in awareness and attitudes by provider characteristics. Most providers were aware of MDC strategies, and nearly three-fourths of providers reported familiarity with 1 of the 2 Philadelphia MDC research programs. Providers overwhelmingly endorsed the need for clinicians to assist with patient outreach for HIV cure-directed research and were willing to recommend patients to participate. Enthusiasm for patient outreach waned if a study required a patient to undergo analytic treatment interruptions (ATIs). Providers identified preferred resources for receiving HIV cure-directed research updates, including webinars with continuing education credit and conferences. Our study's findings advocate for added investment toward developing resources that better engage clinical providers about HIV cure-directed research updates and ongoing studies, including the importance of ATIs. As gatekeepers to patient participation on HIV cure-directed studies, added efforts to increase provider knowledge of specific HIV cure-directed research will advance patient education and ethical outreach.