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Research on mHealth Solutions for Families with Psychosocial Burden: Lessons Learned from the I-PREGNO Project
No full textPsychosoziale Belastungen in der Zeit nach der Geburt wirken sich negativ auf das elterliche
Wohlbefinden und die Eltern-Kind-Beziehung aus. Häufig erreichen präventive Interventionen
diese belasteten Familien nicht (Präventionsdilemma). Blended-Care-Ansätze, also digitale
Interventionen mit Unterstützung von Gesundheitsfachkräften, bieten eine niedrigschwellige
Möglichkeit, diese schwer zu erreichende Gruppe zu unterstützen. Dieser Artikel
untersucht den Forschungsprozess, einschließlich der Entwicklung, Rekrutierung und
Durchführung des I-PREGNO-Projekts – einer Blended-Care-Intervention zur Förderung
der psychischen Gesundheit und des Gewichtsmanagements in psychosozial belasteten Familien
postpartum. Diese wurde gemeinsam mit Fachkräften und Familien entwickelt und
Stärken und Herausforderungen des Projekts wurden mittels Befragungen und Gesprächen
mit Gesundheitsfachkräften identifiziert. Trotz (anfangs) großem Interesse der Fachkräfte erwies
sich die Rekrutierung von psychosozial belasteten Familien als schwierig, was das Präventionsdilemma
verdeutlicht. Die Abbrecherquote der erfolgreich rekrutierten Familien
blieb jedoch während der gesamten Studie niedrig. Die nutzerzentrierte Entwicklung der App
führte zu einer hohen Zufriedenheit, zeigte jedoch den Bedarf an Adhärenzstrategien (z. B.
personalisierte Inhalte) und mehrsprachigen Materialien. Die Einbeziehung von Fachkräften
war für den Zugang zu dieser vulnerablen Gruppe von entscheidender Bedeutung, erfordert
jedoch eine großzügigere Ressourcenplanung für ihre Schulung und Unterstützung. I-PREGNO
liefert wichtige Erkenntnisse für künftige Interventionen, um psychosozial belastete Familien
besser zu erreichen und den Druck auf das Gesundheitssystem zu verringern.Research on mHealth Solutions for Families with Psychosocial Burden: Lessons Learned from the I-PREGNO Project Psychosocial burdens in the postpartum period have a negative impact on parental well-being and the parent-child relationship. Preventive interventions often do not reach these families (prevention dilemma). Blended care approaches, digital interventions combined with support by professionals, offer a low-threshold way to support this hard-to-reach group. This article examines the research process, including the development, recruitment and implementation of the I-PREGNO project - a blended care intervention to promote mental health and weight management in psychosocially burdened postpartum families. The app was developed in collaboration with professionals and families and evaluated in a cluster-randomized controlled trial to identify strengths and challenges in recruitment and implementation. Despite initial strong interest from professionals, recruiting this hard-to-reach group proved challenging, highlighting the prevention dilemma. However, a low dropout rate was maintained among successfully recruited families throughout the study. The app’s user-centered development led to high satisfaction but revealed the need for adherence strategies and multilingual materials. The involvement of healthcare professionals was crucial for accessing this vulnerable group but requires more generous resource planning for training and support. I-PREGNO provides important insights for future interventions to more effectively reach psychosocially burdened families and alleviate pressure on the healthcare system
Gray-Horse Melanoma - A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing
No full textMalignant melanoma (MM) affects not only humans but also animals, with gray horses being particularly predisposed to acquiring the disease. Multiomics have greatly advanced the understanding of human MM. In contrasty little is known regarding the pathogenesis of gray-horse melanoma and the unique phenomenon of melanoma “dormancy” in some animals. To help close this gap in knowledge, melanoma tissue and intact skin collected from gray horses were subjected to transcriptome analysis using RNAseq. In the next step, cultured primary tumor cells and normal skin fibroblasts were established from gray horses, and their protein expression profiles were determined. The obtained data unambiguously identified gray-horse melanoma (ghM) as a malignant tumor, as reflected by the overrepresentation of pathways typically activated in human melanoma and other human cancers. These included the RAS/RAF/MAPK, the IRS/IGF1R, and the PI3K/AKT signaling networks. In addition, the obtained data suggest that the key molecules RAC1, RAS, and BRAF, which are frequently mutated in human melanoma, may also contain activating mutations in ghM, whilst PTEN may harbor loss-of-function mutations. This issue will be subject to downstream analyses determining the mutational status in ghM to further advance the understanding of this frequent disease in gray horses
Bonanno, Daniela (2023). Nemesis. Rappresentazioni e pratiche cultuali nella Grecia antica. Potsdamer Altertumswissenschaftliche Beiträge 85. Stuttgart: Franz Steiner
No full textLong-read sequencing and genome assembly of natural history collection samples and challenging specimens
No full textMuseum collections harbor millions of samples, largely unutilized for long-read sequencing. Here, we use ethanol-preserved samples containing kilobase-sized DNA to show that amplification-free protocols can yield contiguous genome assemblies. Additionally, using a modified amplification-based protocol, employing an alternative polymerase to overcome PCR bias, we assemble the 3.1 Gb maned sloth genome, surpassing the previous 500 Mb protocol size limit. Our protocol also improves assemblies of other difficult-to-sequence molluscs and arthropods, including millimeter-sized organisms. By highlighting collections as valuable sample resources and facilitating genome assembly of tiny and challenging organisms, our study advances efforts to obtain reference genomes of all eukaryotes
Food Addiction in Individuals With Overweight and Obesity Undergoing a 12-Week Long Tailored mHealth Weight Loss Intervention
No full textObjective
Former studies indicated worse outcome for individuals with food addiction (FA) when participating in weight loss programs. Yet, the results may have been influenced by comorbid eating disorders and insufficient consideration of psychological aspects associated with FA.
Methods
We report here a subgroup analysis on treatment success of participants with overweight/obesity and FA, but no comorbid eating disorders, compared to individuals with overweight/obesity but without FA and eating disorders taking part in a 12-week long tailored mHealth weight loss intervention (IG) that addresses psychological aspects of overweight/obesity or a waitlist control condition (CG). Body-mass-index and eating styles were assessed at four time points: baseline, 3, 9 and 15 months after baseline.
Results
Overall, the IG significantly reduced weight and improved eating styles. The efficacy of the intervention was higher in the IG + FA concerning long-term weight loss and emotional eating.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that individuals with FA, without comorbid eating disorders, benefit from a tailored mHealth weight loss intervention that focuses on psychological aspects of overweight/obesity. This underscores the presence of a FA subgroup among individuals with overweight and obesity, characterised by unique vulnerabilities and treatment responses, which should be further analysed. There is a need for specialised treatment of FA components in obesity and overweight.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT0408019
Patterned Assembly of Transition Metal Dichalcogenide/Graphene Heterostructures via Direct Laser Writing
No full textConnecting two-dimensional (2D) material layers via interface linkers represents a new avenue for fabricating 2D heterostructures. Utilizing light to remotely modulate this interface function allows for seamless assembly and patterning in a single run. Here, an efficient method for fabricating patterned 2D heterostructures using direct laser writing is demonstrated, drawing a conceptual parallel to laser printing. In the approach, functionalized transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) dispersions serve as inks, graphene as the substrate, and a Raman laser as the patterning tool. Unlike laser printing's electrostatic interactions, the method achieves patterned assembly through covalent bonding between TMDs and graphene. Selective Raman laser irradiation of functionalized TMD/graphene heterostructures triggers localized reactions, forming chemically modified domains exclusively in the laser-irradiated regions, as confirmed by Raman spectroscopy, Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). Experimental and theoretical analyses of the interface composition and structure provide new insights into laser-induced chemistry. The work demonstrates the potential for high-throughput assembly of customizable 2D heterostructures, with enhanced compatibility for subsequent patterning through photolabile linkers and photoinduced coupling. Additionally, the results provide deeper insights into chemistry within confined 2D spaces, offering a novel approach to nanoscale heterostructure engineering
Temperature-Induced Phase Transitions of Vivianite: In Situ Analysis of a Redox-Driven Crystallization
No full textWe document a solid-state, temperature-dependent (25–700 °C), multistage redox transformation of crystalline ferrous iron phosphate, vivianite (Fe3(PO4)2·8H2O). Under anoxic conditions, vivianite breaks down at T > 250 °C into an anhydrous, amorphous intermediate Fe3(PO4)2 phase, yet the bulk shape and morphology of the starting vivianite crystals were retained. This amorphous intermediate phase remained stable until T > 500 °C, after which a redox-dependent crystallization into two different minerals was observed. Under anoxic conditions, the amorphous ferrous intermediate (Fe3(PO4)2) transformed into the crystalline ferrous phosphate (graftonite, (Fe2+)3(PO4)2), while under oxic conditions it crystallized into a ferric phosphate (rodolicoite, Fe3+PO4). Graftonite formation occurs via an exothermic molar enthalpy (ΔHcryst) of −16.7 ± 0.2 kJ mol–1. Rietveld refinements of the two crystalline endmembers (vivianite and graftonite) revealed a unit cell volume decrease of ∼3.1% during the transformation, which was observed by in situ electron microscopic observations as an overall shrinking of the initial vivianite crystals. Despite volume loss and bubble-like features, the original vivianite shape was preserved, indicating a solid-state pseudomorphic transformation. Ex situ XRD and TEM-EELS analyses confirmed the ferrous-to-ferric oxidation, forming rodolicoite, through changes in the Fe geometry and oxidation state
Using automated activity monitoring to detect resumption of cyclicity in early lactation—Meta-analysis
No full textThis meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of automated activity monitoring (AAM) in detecting estrous expression and ovulatory status in cows during the voluntary waiting period (VWP). A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar using specific search terms. Inclusion criteria focused on studies that assessed estrous expression within the VWP using modern AAM systems alongside blood progesterone (P4) measurements. Four manuscripts involving 2,198 cows were included. Data extraction was performed by a single investigator and validated by a coauthor. The analysis considered estrous expression and ovulatory status determined through serial blood P4 measurements. Cows were classified based on P4 concentrations and estrus alerts into true positive, false positive, true negative, and false negative categories. Statistical analyses were conducted using MedCalc, incorporating 7 experimental groups from the selected manuscripts. The pooled proportion of ovulatory cows with P4 ≥1 ng/mL by 49 DIM (in most studies) was 79.8% (95% CI: 74.9%–84.3%), with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 86.1%). The proportion of cows with estrous expression detected by AAM by 60 DIM (in most studies) was 64.0% (95% CI: 48.3%–78.3%), also showing significant heterogeneity (I2 = 98.1%). Sensitivity and specificity of AAM systems to identify ovulatory cows were 70.3% (95% CI: 55.1%–83.4%) and 60.0% (95% CI: 42.5%–76.3%), respectively, both with significant heterogeneity. Positive predictive value was 88.1% (95% CI: 84.9%–91.0%), and negative predictive value was 35.3% (95% CI: 26.3%–44.7%), indicating variability among experimental groups. The findings suggest that although AAM systems show promise in confirming ovulation in early lactation, the lack of estrus detection by AAM does not confirm anovulatory status. The heterogeneity in the data suggests there might be inconsistencies in the precision or configuration of the AAM systems across farms and studies
A novel lysin Ply691 exhibits potent bactericidal activity against Streptococcus suis
No full textIntroduction: Streptococcus suis represents a growing zoonotic pathogen, exacerbated by increasing antimicrobial resistance due to a widespread and often inappropriate antimicrobial use. This escalating challenge underscores the pressing need for innovative treatment strategies against streptococcal infections in pigs. In our study, we identified Ply691, a prophage-encoded lytic enzyme.
Methods: The corresponding gene was identified during whole genome analysis of S. suis SC267. Structural domain analysis revealed that Ply691 consists of an N-terminal Amidase-5 catalytic domain, a C-terminal Glucosaminidase catalytic domain, and two centrally located CW-7-binding structural domains. In order to investigate the bactericidal potential of Ply691, an in vitro bactericidal assay was conducted using Ply691, and its bactericidal effect was evaluated by colony counting method after applying it to different strains of bacteria and at different temperatures and pH conditions. Subsequently, a mouse bacteremia model was established, and the in vivo bactericidal efficacy of Ply691 was evaluated by measuring the bacterial residues in the blood and different organs of mice treated with Ply691.
Results: In-vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing demonstrated that Ply691 exhibits potent lytic activity against 11 serotypes of S. suis, including serotypes 2, 3, 5, 9, 10, 12, 17, 18, 19, 29, and 30. Furthermore, Ply691 reduced the number of S. suis colonies by approximately 1 log within 20 min. Ply691 also displayed a broad temperature adaptability range (4°C-37°C) and remarkable alkaline tolerance (pH 7-10). In an in vivo murine bacteremia model, Ply691 demonstrated significant therapeutic effects. Administration of Ply691 at a dose of 2 mg per mouse by intraperitoneal injection an hour post-infection resulted in a 100% survival rate and substantially reduced the bacterial load in the blood and various organs (heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, and brain). Histological analysis confirmed that these organs closely resembled those of the control group.
Discussion: Ply691 exhibits broad-spectrum lytic activity against S. suis with unique structural advantages. It demonstrates robust efficacy in vivo without inducing resistance, showing significant therapeutic potential for streptococcal infections
Structural and Histomorphological Evaluation of the Stifle Joint Capsule in Canine Congenital Patellar Luxation and Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture
No full textCongenital patellar luxation (PL) and cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) are among the most prevalent hereditary musculoskeletal disorders in dogs. Despite their frequency, the microstructural alterations in the stifle joint capsule associated with these conditions remain poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize histomorphological changes in the joint capsule of dogs affected by PL and/or CCLR. Capsule samples were collected from dogs undergoing corrective surgery for PL or CCLR, while control tissue was obtained from dogs with unrelated orthopedic conditions. Histological evaluation assessed capsule thickness, the organization of its layers (stratum fibrosum, stratum subsynoviale, and stratum synoviale), synovial cell number, and villous or plicae formation. Associations with disease type, chronicity, sex, age, breed, and weight were analyzed. Dogs with PL and CCLR exhibited increased superficial synovial cell layers compared to controls, whereas chronic cases showed reduced villous formation (SEF = 2.46). Absence or marked reduction of the stratum subsynoviale correlated with PL and prolonged lameness. In PL cases, the stratum synoviale was frequently absent, whereas CCLR cases exhibited an increase in overall capsular thickness. These findings reveal distinct histomorphological remodeling in PL and CCLR, suggesting that chronic instability drives degenerative changes. Understanding these alterations may aid in early diagnosis, improve treatment strategies, and inform breeding programs targeting joint stability in predisposed breeds