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We report on temperature‐dependent structural and spectroscopic properties of two new members of the mullite‐type ceramics SnAlBO4 and SnGaBO4. In‐situ X‐ray powder diffraction (XRPD) demonstrates positive thermal expansion behavior for all orthorhombic lattice parameters between 13 and 840 K. The lattice thermal expansion is modeled by Grüneisen first‐order approximation, where the vibrational energy is calculated by the Debye–Einstein–anharmonicity (DEA) approach. Although the thermal changes of the metric parameters do not show any discontinuity, the double‐Debye model and low‐temperature thermal analysis leave hints for subtle displacive changes. Splitting of the tin‐doublets of the 119Sn Mössbauer spectra at low temperature is assumed to be associated with structural modulation although the temperature‐dependent Raman spectra could not support these findings. The modulation could either be dynamic which requires much longer thermal equilibration than the speed of the data collection for XRPD and Raman spectroscopy. Selective Raman mode frequencies are analyzed using a modified Klemens model, which helps to understand the thermal anharmonic behaviors of the SnO4, MO6, and BO3 polyhedra as a function of temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

US Asian adults and people with limited English proficiency (LEP) confront mental health treatment receipt disparities. At the intersection of racial and language injustice, Asian adults with LEP may face even greater disparity, but studies have not assessed this through explicitly intersectional approaches. Using 2019 and 2020 National Survey of Drug Use and Health data, we computed disparities in mental health treatment among those with mental illness comparing: non-Hispanic (NH) Asian adults with LEP to NH White adults without LEP (joint disparity), NH Asian adults without LEP to NH White adults without LEP (referent race disparity), NH Asian adults with LEP to those without LEP (referent LEP disparity), and the joint disparity versus the sum of referent disparities (excess intersectional disparity). In age- and gender-adjusted analyses, excess intersectional disparity was 26.8% (95% CI, −29.8 to 83.4) of the joint disparity in 2019 and 63.0% (95% CI, 29.1-96.8) in 2020. The 2019 joint disparity was 1.37 (95% CI, 0.31-2.42) times that if the race-related disparity did not vary by LEP, and if LEP-related disparity did not vary by race; this figure was 2.70 (95% CI, 0.23-5.17) in 2020. These findings highlight the necessity of considering the intersection of race and LEP in addressing mental health treatment disparities. This article is part of a Special Collection on Mental Health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical cancer has been and still is a major global health problem and a major treatment challenge for which surgical interventions have played a key role throughout the past century. In early stages (I/A2-II/B), where high-risk factors are not present, the efficacy of surgical and radiotherapy treatment has been considered equivalent with different (treatment modality specific) complications and quality of life consequences. Negative prognostic factors in early stages of the disease (pelvic lymph-node positivity) and in more advanced stages (parametrial and/or surgical margins' tumor involvement) forecast the deterioration of outlooks for good life expectancy. In these high-risk cases, when radio- or chemoradiotherapy is contraindicated, we investigated the potential role of a more radical surgical approach than the traditional radical hysterectomy. Twenty-five years ago, a hyperradical surgical procedure for the treatment of high-risk cervical cancer patients was introduced in Budapest. The procedure was named as laterally extended parametrectomy (LEP) in Budapest Hungary. The surgical intention was the complete removal of the fibro-fatty tissue content of the pelvis, which contains the lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and tumor-affected pelvic side wall structures. We initiated observational studies on the primary treatment in parametrium and/or lymph-node tumor-positive early-stage cases and on second-line surgical therapy of pelvic side wall recurrent tumors following radiotherapy. Promising results of our observational studies propose that prospective randomized trials are worth to be initiated to clarify the potential of this treatment modality in this poor prognosis cohort of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity, a significant public health concern with high prevalence in both adults and children, is a complex disorder arising from the interaction of multiple genes and environmental factors. Advances in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and sequencing technologies have identified numerous polygenic causes of obesity, particularly genes involved in hunger, satiety signals, adipocyte differentiation, and energy expenditure. This study investigates the relationship between six obesity-related genes (CLOCK, FTO, GHRL, LEP, LEPR, MC4R) and their impact on BMI, WC, HC, WHR, and emotional eating behavior in 220 Romanian adults. Emotional eating was assessed using the validated Emotional Eating Questionnaire (EEQ). Our analysis revealed significant variability in obesity-related phenotypes and emotional eating behaviors across different genotypes. Specifically, CLOCK/CC, FTO/AA, and LEP/AA genotypes were strongly associated with higher obesity metrics and emotional eating scores, while GHRL/TT and MC4R/CC were linked to increased BMI and WHR. The interplay between genetic predisposition and emotional eating behavior significantly influenced BMI and WHR, indicating a complex relationship between genetic and behavioral factors. This study, the first of its kind in Romania, provides a foundation for targeted interventions to prevent and reduce obesity and suggests potential strategies for gene expression modulation to mitigate the effects of emotional eating. Adopting a 'One Health' approach by creating an evidence base derived from both human and animal studies is crucial for understanding how to control obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leptin can indirectly regulate fatty‐acid metabolism and synthesis in muscle in vivo and directly in incubated muscle ex vivo. In addition, non‐synonymous mutations in the bovine leptin gene (LEP) are associated with carcass intramuscular fat (IMF) content. However, the effects of LEP on lipid synthesis of adipocytes have not been clearly studied at the cellular level. Therefore, this study focused on bovine primary intramuscular preadipocytes to investigate the effects of LEP on the proliferation and differentiation of intramuscular preadipocytes, as well as its regulatory mechanism in lipid synthesis. The results showed that both the LEP and leptin receptor gene (LEPR) were highly expressed in IMF tissues, and their mRNA expression levels were positively correlated at different developmental stages of intramuscular preadipocytes. The overexpression of LEP inhibited the proliferation and differentiation of intramuscular preadipocytes, while interference with LEP had the opposite effect. Additionally, LEP significantly promoted the phosphorylation level of AMPKα by promoting the protein expression of CAMKK2. Meanwhile, rescue experiments showed that the increasing effect of AMPK inhibitors on the number of intramuscular preadipocytes was significantly weakened by the overexpression of LEP. Furthermore, the overexpression of LEP could weaken the promoting effect of AMPK inhibitor on triglyceride content and droplet accumulation, and prevent the upregulation of adipogenic protein expression (SREBF1, FABP4, FASN, and ACCα) caused by AMPK inhibitor. Taken together, LEP acted on the AMPK signaling pathway by regulating the protein expression of CAMKK2, thereby downregulating the expression of proliferation‐related and adipogenic‐related genes and proteins, ultimately reducing intramuscular adipogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their adipogenic derivatives on the relative abundances (RAs) noticed for mRNA transcripts of the selected adipokines (adiponectin and leptin) and their receptors. MSCs were isolated from bone marrow (BM) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (AT) samples collected post mortem from a total of four gilts (each at the age of 6 months). The stemness of the MSCs was proven via recognizing their abilities to differentiate into adipocytes, osteoblasts, and chondrocytes. By using real-time PCR (RT -qPCR), the quantitative levels of transcriptional activity pinpointed for the adiponectin (ADIPOQ), adiponectin receptor 1 (ADIPOR1), adiponectin receptor 2 (ADIPOR2), leptin (LEP), and leptin receptor (LEPR) genes were comparatively analyzed between non-differentiated AT -MSCs and BM-MSCs and their cell counterparts undergoing differentiation into adipocytes. A significantly higher RA for ADIPOR1 transcripts was identified in the AT-MSCs compared to the BM-MSCs and their adipogenic derivatives (P≤0.05). Moreover, the quantitative levels of LEPR transcripts were shown to increase significantly among adipocytes originating from differentiated BM-MSCs compared to undifferentiated BM-MSCs, AT -MSCs, and AT -MSC-derived adipocytes (P≤0.05). Nonetheless, there was no significant inter-group variability in the RAs of the ADIPOQ, ADIPOR2, or LEP mRNA transcripts (P>0.05). Cumulatively, the in vitro models focused on the identification and detailed exploration of transcriptomic signatures of undifferentiated pig BM- and AT -MSCs, and the molecular mechanisms underlying the adipogenic differentiation pathways of the above-indicated two distinct sources of stem cells were developed and optimized in the current investigation for the very first time. These ex vivo porcine models might confirm the expedited functional mobilization of ex situ-protected MSCs and their enhanced capacity to be transcriptionally reprogrammed into adipocytes due to physiopathological alterations in the expression profiles of adipokines and their receptors, which are prompted and progressed in obese and superobese women patients at the peri-pubertal period of ontogenesis. Finally, the models providing comprehensive molecular insights into ex situ-protected porcine BM- and AT -derived MSCs and their differentiated derivatives can be largely suitable for the biotechnologically assisted rescue and restitution of endangered representatives of rare native breeds of domestic pig. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Firat Universitesi Sağlik Bilimleri Tip Dergisi is the property of Firat Universitesiu, Saglik Bilimleri Enstitusu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have successfully revealed numerous susceptibility loci for obesity. The PREDATORR study (2014) shows that in Romania, 346% of adults aged 20–79 y/o are overweight, and 31.4% are obese with a high risk of cardiometabolic complications, a number that puts almost 67% of Romania's population in the abnormal weight group. Our study aims to investigate the current status of the genetic foundation in metabolic disease associated with obesity, applied to a pilot group of patients specifically examining the impact of known polymorphisms and their haplotype of six food intake-regulating genes, namely leptin (LEP), leptin receptor (LEP-R), serotonin receptor (5HTR2A), ghrelin (GHRL), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and fat-mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) with the following polymorphisms: LEP A-2548G, LEPR A-223G, 5HTR2A G-1439A, GHRL G-72T, NPY T-29063C, FTO A-T, and body mass index (BMI). A notable link between the LEP-2548 rs7799039 gene's AG genotype and the risk of obesity was observed, particularly pronounced in males aged 40–49, with an approximately seven-fold increased likelihood of obesity. The 5HTR2A rs6311 AA genotype was associated with a higher BMI, which was not statistically significant. The FTO rs9939609 gene's AA genotype emerged as a significant predictor of obesity risk. Besides these significant findings, no substantial associations were observed with the LEPR, 5HTR2A, GHRL, and NPY genes. Haplotype association analysis showed a suggestive indication of GRGMLA (rs7799039, rs1137101, rs6311, rs696217, rs16139, rs9939609 sequence) haplotype with a susceptibility effect towards obesity predisposition. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis showed statistically significant associations between LEP and LEPR gene (p = 0.04), LEP and GHRL gene (p = 0.0047), and GHRL and FTO gene (p = 0.03). Our study, to the best of our knowledge, is one of the very few on the Romanian population, and aims to be a starting point for further research on the targeted interventional strategies to reduce cardiometabolic risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article delves into three aspects: (a) India–ASEAN economic relationship since the last three decades of Look East Policy (LEP), (b) the achievements of North-east India (NEI) under LEP and Act East Policy (AEP) and (c) adding a note on AEP as a new 'development paradigm' in NEI. The study finds that the India–ASEAN economic relationship deepened in the post-LEP period as merchandise trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows increased manifold. However, neither LEP nor AEP made any significant impact on NEI in terms of economic growth, exports and FDI inflows. Economic growth stagnated and even decelerated in some states in NEI, while exports and FDI inflows remained abysmally low. LEP was a failed policy instrument for NEI despite many claims and assumptions. The major reason was infrastructure deficits and poor connectivity in the region for a prolonged period. AEP has emerged as a new 'development paradigm' with renewed thrust on infrastructure buildup and connectivity constructions. The ongoing and completed connectivity projects in rail, road, air and water, improvement in power and telecom, multimodal logistic park in Assam and improvement of trade infrastructure in NEI under AEP would attract investment from both domestic foreign sources, enhance productive capacity, increase exports and accelerate economic growth. AEP is expected to open new possibilities for trade and investments in NEI through regional economic integration with South Asian and South-east Asian economies given geographical location, ethno-cultural proximity, historical linkages and resource endowments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Hungarian Medical Journal / Orvosi Hetilap is the property of Akademiai Kiado and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Early childhood obesity poses a significant global public health challenge, necessitating the identification of treatable causes, particularly congenital leptin deficiencies. Serum leptin level measurement aids in diagnosing these rare contributors, guiding effective management. Methods: A Chinese family with early-onset obesity underwent LEP mutational screening via direct sequencing. mRNA expression and protein stability patterns of LEP were separately analyzed using qPCR and bioinformatics. Results: We present a case of a 12.5-year-old girl born to non-obese, non-consanguineous Chinese parents, exhibiting low leptin levels. Leptin gene sequencing revealed novel compound heterozygous mutations in exon 3. RT-PCR analysis showed the mutation didn't affect leptin production. Bioinformatics analysis indicated the variant rendered the leptin protein unstable. Conclusion: Loss-of-function mutations in LEP underlies early-onset obesity in the patient.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have successfully revealed numerous susceptibility loci for obesity. The PREDATORR study (2014) shows that in Romania, 346% of adults aged 20–79 y/o are overweight, and 31.4% are obese with a high risk of cardiometabolic complications, a number that puts almost 67% of Romania’s population in the abnormal weight group. Our study aims to investigate the current status of the genetic foundation in metabolic disease associated with obesity, applied to a pilot group of patients specifically examining the impact of known polymorphisms and their haplotype of six food intake-regulating genes, namely leptin (LEP), leptin receptor (LEP-R), serotonin receptor (5HTR2A), ghrelin (GHRL), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and fat-mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) with the following polymorphisms: LEP A-2548G, LEPR A-223G, 5HTR2A G-1439A, GHRL G-72T, NPY T-29063C, FTO A-T, and body mass index (BMI). A notable link between the LEP-2548 rs7799039 gene’s AG genotype and the risk of obesity was observed, particularly pronounced in males aged 40–49, with an approximately seven-fold increased likelihood of obesity. The 5HTR2A rs6311 AA genotype was associated with a higher BMI, which was not statistically significant. The FTO rs9939609 gene’s AA genotype emerged as a significant predictor of obesity risk. Besides these significant findings, no substantial associations were observed with the LEPR, 5HTR2A, GHRL, and NPY genes. Haplotype association analysis showed a suggestive indication of GRGMLA (rs7799039, rs1137101, rs6311, rs696217, rs16139, rs9939609 sequence) haplotype with a susceptibility effect towards obesity predisposition. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis showed statistically significant associations between LEP and LEPR gene (p = 0.04), LEP and GHRL gene (p = 0.0047), and GHRL and FTO gene (p = 0.03). Our study, to the best of our knowledge, is one of the very few on the Romanian population, and aims to be a starting point for further research on the targeted interventional strategies to reduce cardiometabolic risks.

This Study was conducted out at the Ministry of Agriculture's Poultry Research Station/Animal Resources Department/Agricultural Research Center. To see how body weight (BW) and leptin hormone (LEP) levels in breeder blood affect fertility and hatchability. 140 Iraqi local laying chickens (120 females + 20 males) aged 28 weeks were used in the study. Following the numbering of females, the birds were grown in individual cages and dispersed sequentially on cages. The experiment was divided into three periods, each lasting 28 days, during which the breeder's live body weight was recorded and divided into two categories (greater than 1.5 kg and less than 1.5 kg), and blood samples were collected at the end of each period to determine the concentration of leptin hormone in the breeders' blood. For comparison between mothers' performance, hormone concentration is separated into three groups: high, medium, and low. The percentage of fertile eggs (FE), the percentage of hatched chicks from total eggs (HAT), the percentage of hatched chicks from fertile eggs (HAF), and the percentage of mortality (MO) all showed a significant increase (p<0.05), and a linear relationship was discovered between the studied traits and hormone concentration levels. Leptin arrived at the best predictive values that reflect reality by computing regression and correlation coefficients and using a hypothetical technique in estimating prediction results. This study concludes that body weight and leptin levels have unknown impacts on hatching fertility rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Magyar Radiológia Online is the property of Society of Hungarian Radiologists and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives Inpatients with language barriers and complex medical needs suffer disparities in quality of care, safety, and health outcomes. Although in-person interpreters are particularly beneficial for these patients, they are underused. We plan to use machine learning predictive analytics to reliably identify patients with language barriers and complex medical needs to prioritize them for in-person interpreters. Materials and methods This qualitative study used stakeholder engagement through semi-structured interviews to understand the perceived risks and benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) in this domain. Stakeholders included clinicians, interpreters, and personnel involved in caring for these patients or for organizing interpreters. Data were coded and analyzed using NVIVO software. Results We completed 49 interviews. Key perceived risks included concerns about transparency, accuracy, redundancy, privacy, perceived stigmatization among patients, alert fatigue, and supply–demand issues. Key perceived benefits included increased awareness of in-person interpreters, improved standard of care and prioritization for interpreter utilization; a streamlined process for accessing interpreters, empowered clinicians, and potential to overcome clinician bias. Discussion This is the first study that elicits stakeholder perspectives on the use of AI with the goal of improved clinical care for patients with language barriers. Perceived benefits and risks related to the use of AI in this domain, overlapped with known hazards and values of AI but some benefits were unique for addressing challenges with providing interpreter services to patients with language barriers. Conclusion Artificial intelligence to identify and prioritize patients for interpreter services has the potential to improve standard of care and address healthcare disparities among patients with language barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to assess the influence of genetic polymorphisms in DGAT1, LEP, and SCD1 on the oxidative stress biomarkers and bioactive protein levels in Hereford bulls. A total of sixty-eight bulls were analyzed at 22 months of age to assess growth metrics and carcass quality, with a focus on polymorphisms in these genes. The key markers of oxidative stress, including malondialdehyde (MDA), and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione reductase (GluRed), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured, alongside bioactive compounds like taurine, carnosine, and anserine. The results show that the TT genotype of DGAT1 is linked to significantly higher MDA levels, reflecting increased lipid peroxidation, but is also associated with higher GluRed and GPx activities and elevated levels of taurine, carnosine, and anserine, suggesting an adaptive response to oxidative stress. The LEP gene analysis revealed that the CC genotype had the highest MDA levels but also exhibited increased GPx and SOD activities, with the CT genotype showing the highest SOD activity and the TT genotype the highest total antioxidant status (TAS). The SCD1 AA genotype displayed the highest activities of GluRed, GPx, and SOD, indicating a more effective antioxidant defence, while the VA genotype had the highest MDA levels and the VV genotype showed lower MDA levels, suggesting protective effects against oxidative damage. These findings highlight genotype specific variations in the oxidative stress markers and bioactive compound levels, providing insights into the genetic regulation of oxidative stress and antioxidant defences, which could inform breeding strategies for improving oxidative stress resistance in livestock and managing related conditions.

Language barriers significantly affect communication between patients and health care staff and are associated with receipt of lower-quality care. Registered nurses are well positioned members of the health care team to reduce and eliminate disparities for patients with limited English proficiency (LEP). Current evidence recommends nurses use interpreters or translation devices to overcome language barriers; however, these recommendations fail to recognize that structural system-level factors, such as unsupportive work environments and poor nurse-to-patient staffing ratios, reduce nurses' ability to implement these recommendations. The Quality Health Outcomes Model (QHOM) is a useful framework for understanding relationships between hospital systems, the delivery of care interventions, and patient outcomes. The goal of this manuscript is to use the QHOM and existing empirical evidence to present a new perspective on the long-standing clinical challenge of reducing language-related health outcome disparities by considering the context in which nurses deliver patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background and aims There is a link between genetics with metabolic balance and adiposity homeostasis on metabolic syndrome (MetS). Polymorphism in adipokine genes such as leptin and adiponectin may play an important role in its development. This study aimed to determine the association of the individual and general components of MetS with genetic alterations in LEP (rs7799039 and rs2167270) and ADIPOQ (rs1501299 and rs2241766) genes in the Mexican population. Methods and results The polymorphisms of the LEP gene rs7799039 and rs2167270, together with rs1501299 and rs2241766 polymorphisms of the ADIPOQ gene were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) on 328 individuals (n = 131 MetS). The rs7799039 under the recessive inheritance model was found to be associated with increased risk of MetS (OR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.06–4.37), dyslipidemia (OR = 7.97, 95% CI = 2.17–29.36), low HDL (OR = 7.01, 95% CI = 1.65–29.71) and hypertension (OR = 13.02, 95% CI = 1.76–96.44); the heterozygote demonstrate a protective effect on MetS (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.28–0.88) and diabetes (OR = 0.09, 95% CI = 0.02–0.53) under the over the dominant model. Haplotype analysis showed linkage disequilibrium between the SNPs of ADIPOQ rs1501299/rs2241766, and their association as risk factors for low HDL and hypertension. Conclusion The association of rs7799039 with the presence of MetS, suggests a risk factor for the development of dyslipidemia, as well as its heterozygous as a protective factor for DM. There is a linkage disequilibrium between the SNPs of ADIPOQ.

Abstract Background In Iran, lung cancer is the third most common type of cancer and its prevalence is increasing rapidly. Identification informative genetic polymorphisms in cancer causing genes including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as key gene in control of cellular proliferation via intrinsic tyrosine/kinase activity, exonuclease 1 (EXO1) as one of the upregulated gene in different human malignancies and leptin (LEP) participate in carcinogenesis in lung cancer appears to be used as potential genetic markers for predicting lung cancer risk. There is no study about investigate association of the EGFR (− 216G/T), Exo1 (K589E) and LEP (− 2548G/A) gene polymorphisms with risk of lung cancer in Iranian population. The aim of this study was investigating the association of EGFR (− 216G/T), Exo1 (K589E) and LEP (− 2548G/A) gene polymorphisms with risk of lung cancer as a potentially diagnostic biomarker in Iranian population. Methods In this case–control study, A total of 100 patients with lung cancer and 100 age and gender-matched healthy controls were recruited into this study and the association between EGFR (− 216G/T), Exo1 (K589E) and LEP (− 2548G/A) gene polymorphisms with the risk of lung cancer was investigated by using PCR–RFLP technique and bioinformatics approach. Results The rs712829 of EGFR gene show that a significant statistical difference between G allele and risk of lung cancer (P = 0.001, OR = 2.976, CI = 95%, 1.557–5.691), in contrast, the T allele and TT genotype show a protective role against the risk of lung cancer. Result of in silico analysis indicated that the rs712829 alter splicing and promoter regulation of EGFR gene and associated with the risk of lung cancer. PCR–RFLP result for rs1047840 of Exo1 gene showed that the AA genotype and A allele of this polymorphism associated with risk of lung cancer, whereas the GG genotype show a protective effect against the risk of lung cancer (P = 0.004, OR = 5.391, CI = 95%, 1.690–17.200). On the other hand, in silico analysis showed that the existence of rs1047840 in Exo1 gene influence lung cancer susceptibility. For rs7799039 of LEP gene, PCR–RFLP analysis showed that, there is no significant association between this polymorphism and the risk of lung cancer. Conclusion The rs712829 of EGFR gene and rs1047840 of Exo1 are associated with risk of lung cancer among Iranian population and can be used as a potentially candidate biomarker for early detection and primary prevention.

BackgroundElectronic health (eHealth) literacy may affect telehealth uptake, yet few studies have evaluated eHealth literacy in underserved populations.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to describe technology access and use patterns as well as eHealth literacy levels among English-speaking and LEP patients in a Los Angeles safety net health system.MethodsPatients, aged ≥18 years with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and/or hypertension, and their caregivers were recruited from three primary care safety-net clinics in Los Angeles County (California) between June - July 2017. Participants' electronic health literacy was assessed by the eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS); participants were also asked about technology access and use. We examined these measures in English-speaking and limited English proficient (LEP) Spanish-speaking patients.ResultsA total of 71 participants (62 patients and 9 caregivers) completed the questionnaire. The mean age of the respondents was 56 years old. More than half of participants used a phone that could connect to the Internet (67%). The mean score for 10 eHEALS items was in the moderate range (26/50 points). There was no difference in mean eHEALS between language groups. However, 47% of Spanish-speaking participants "agreed/strongly agreed" that they knew how to use the Internet to answer their health questions, compared to 68% of English-speaking participants (P

Objective: Leptin (LEP) is an obesity-associated adipokine associated with tumor cell growth. We examined the relevance of genetic variants of LEP and leptin receptor (LEPR) to colorectal cancer (CRC) survival by using data from the Newfoundland Familial Colorectal Cancer Study. Methods: A total of 532 patients newly diagnosed with CRC between 1997 and 2003 were followed up until April 2010. Data on their demographics and lifestyles were collected via questionnaires. Genotyping of blood samples was performed with the Illumina Human Omni-Quad Bead chip. Multivariable Cox models were used to assess the relationships of 35 tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in LEP and LEPR with overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and CRC-specific survival. Results: At the gene level, LEP was associated with DFS (P = 0.017), and LEPR was associated with both DFS (P = 0.021) and CRC-specific survival (P = 0.013) in patients with CRC. In single-SNP analysis, LEP rs11763517, LEPR rs9436301, and LEPR rs7602 were associated with DFS after adjustment for multiple testing. The LEPR haplotypes G-C-T (rs7534511-rs9436301-rs1887285) and A-A-G (rs7602-rs970467-rs9436748) were associated with prolonged OS among patients with CRC overall (G-C-T: HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.43–0.93; A-A-G: HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.38–0.91) and those diagnosed with colon cancer (G-C-T: HR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.34–0.86; A-A-G: HR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.29–0.83). Similar results were observed for DFS. Moreover, significant interactions were found among LEPR rs7602 (A vs. G), LEPR rs1171278 (T vs. C), red meat intake, and BMI status: the associations between these variants and prolonged DFS were limited to patients with below-median red meat consumption and body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m2. Conclusions: Polymorphic variations in the LEP and LEPR genes were associated with survival of patients after CRC diagnosis. The LEP/LEPR-CRC survival association was modified by participants’ red meat intake and BMI.

Background: In Iran, lung cancer is the third most common type of cancer and its prevalence is increasing rapidly. Identification informative genetic polymorphisms in cancer causing genes including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as key gene in control of cellular proliferation via intrinsic tyrosine/kinase activity, exonuclease 1 (EXO1) as one of the upregulated gene in different human malignancies and leptin (LEP) participate in carcinogenesis in lung cancer appears to be used as potential genetic markers for predicting lung cancer risk. There is no study about investigate association of the EGFR (− 216G/T), Exo1 (K589E) and LEP (− 2548G/A) gene polymorphisms with risk of lung cancer in Iranian population. The aim of this study was investigating the association of EGFR (− 216G/T), Exo1 (K589E) and LEP (− 2548G/A) gene polymorphisms with risk of lung cancer as a potentially diagnostic biomarker in Iranian population. Methods: In this case–control study, A total of 100 patients with lung cancer and 100 age and gender-matched healthy controls were recruited into this study and the association between EGFR (− 216G/T), Exo1 (K589E) and LEP (− 2548G/A) gene polymorphisms with the risk of lung cancer was investigated by using PCR–RFLP technique and bioinformatics approach. Results: The rs712829 of EGFR gene show that a significant statistical difference between G allele and risk of lung cancer (P = 0.001, OR = 2.976, CI = 95%, 1.557–5.691), in contrast, the T allele and TT genotype show a protective role against the risk of lung cancer. Result of in silico analysis indicated that the rs712829 alter splicing and promoter regulation of EGFR gene and associated with the risk of lung cancer. PCR–RFLP result for rs1047840 of Exo1 gene showed that the AA genotype and A allele of this polymorphism associated with risk of lung cancer, whereas the GG genotype show a protective effect against the risk of lung cancer (P = 0.004, OR = 5.391, CI = 95%, 1.690–17.200). On the other hand, in silico analysis showed that the existence of rs1047840 in Exo1 gene influence lung cancer susceptibility. For rs7799039 of LEP gene, PCR–RFLP analysis showed that, there is no significant association between this polymorphism and the risk of lung cancer. Conclusion: The rs712829 of EGFR gene and rs1047840 of Exo1 are associated with risk of lung cancer among Iranian population and can be used as a potentially candidate biomarker for early detection and primary prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Homozygous leptin (LEP) and leptin receptor (LEPR) variants lead to childhood-onset obesity. Objective: To present new cases with LEP and LEPR deficiency, report the long-term follow-up of previously described patients, and to define, based on all reported cases in literature, genotype-phenotype relationships. Methods: Our cohort included 18 patients (LEP = 11, LEPR = 7), 8 of whom had been previously reported. A systematic literature review was conducted in July 2022. Forty-two of 47 studies on LEP/LEPR were selected. Results: Of 10 new cases, 2 novel pathogenic variants were identified in LEP (c.16delC) and LEPR (c.40 + 5G > C). Eleven patients with LEP deficiency received metreleptin, 4 of whom had been treated for over 20 years. One patient developed loss of efficacy associated with neutralizing antibody development. Of 152 patients, including 134 cases from the literature review in addition to our cases, frameshift variants were the most common (48%) in LEP and missense variants (35%) in LEPR. Patients with LEP deficiency were diagnosed at a younger age [3 (9) vs 7 (13) years, P = .02] and had a higher median body mass index (BMI) SD score [3.1 (2) vs 2.8 (1) kg/m², P = 0.02], which was more closely associated with frameshift variants (P = .02). Patients with LEP deficiency were more likely to have hyperinsulinemia (P = .02). Conclusion: Frameshift variants were more common in patients with LEP deficiency whereas missense variants were more common in LEPR deficiency. Patients with LEP deficiency were identified at younger ages, had higher BMI SD scores, and had higher rates of hyperinsulinemia than patients with LEPR deficiency. Eleven patients benefitted from long-term metreleptin, with 1 losing efficacy due to neutralizing antibodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To compare access to the initial management and overall survival with colorectal cancer for limited English proficient (LEP) patients compared with patients from an English background. Methods: All newly diagnosed patients from 2017 with colorectal cancer from a single health service with a highly multicultural catchment area and a well‐developed and integrated translation and language support (TALS) department were recruited. Time from referral to: biopsy, date seen by a surgeon, oncologist, discussion at a multidisciplinary meeting (MDM), and day of commencement of the first treatment modality, and overall survival were analyzed. Results: One hundred sixty‐two patients were analyzed, including 57 LEP patients from 22 countries of birth. Interpreters were present at 687/782 appointments with LEP patients. There were no differences in demographics or cancer staging. There were no differences between English background and LEP patients with regard to times from referral to biopsy (1 vs. 0 days), specialist review (surgical: 4 vs. 6 days, oncological: 45 vs. 57 days), MDM discussion (23 vs. 15 days), or commencement of treatment (32 vs. 28.5 days). There were no differences in treatment for colorectal cancer, although a higher rate of stomas was noted in LEP patients. There was no difference in overall survival between groups. Conclusion: Time to critical initial checkpoints and overall survival were similar in LEP and English background patients with colorectal cancer. An integrated TALS department may abrogate the language and cultural barriers that are known to disadvantage LEP patients and may contribute to normalizing care for the culturally and linguistically diverse community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Endometrial cancer (EC) is a prevalent gynaecological cancer, the growth and spread of which are facilitated by angiogenesis. Our study used publicly available datasets to compare the expression of angiogenesis-related genes and proteins in EC tissue and adjacent controls. We validated these findings in a cohort of 36 EC patients and built an EC-grade prediction model using machine learning. The results showed a significant up-regulation of IL8 and LEP and down-regulation of 11 other genes in EC tissue. These genes were differentially expressed in early-stage and lower-grade EC but not in more advanced forms or in patients with deep myometrial or lymphovascular invasion. Gene co-expressions were stronger in EC tissue, especially when the lymphovascular invasion was present. More extensive angiogenesis-related gene involvement was seen in postmenopausal women. Our findings suggest that angiogenesis in EC is primarily driven by reduced antiangiogenic factor expression, with altered regulation in the tumour-adjacent tissue of EC patients with less favourable prognoses. Endometrial cancer (EC) is an increasing health concern, with its growth driven by an angiogenic switch that occurs early in cancer development. Our study used publicly available datasets to examine the expression of angiogenesis-related genes and proteins in EC tissues, and compared them with adjacent control tissues. We identified nine genes with significant differential expression and selected six additional antiangiogenic genes from prior research for validation on EC tissue in a cohort of 36 EC patients. Using machine learning, we built a prognostic model for EC, combining our data with The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Our results revealed a significant up-regulation of IL8 and LEP and down-regulation of eleven other genes in EC tissues. These genes showed differential expression in the early stages and lower grades of EC, and in patients without deep myometrial or lymphovascular invasion. Gene co-expressions were stronger in EC tissues, particularly those with lymphovascular invasion. We also found more extensive angiogenesis-related gene involvement in postmenopausal women. In conclusion, our findings suggest that angiogenesis in EC is predominantly driven by decreased antiangiogenic factor expression, particularly in EC with less favourable prognostic features. Our machine learning model effectively stratified EC based on gene expression, distinguishing between low and high-grade cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early childhood obesity is a real public health problem worldwide. Identifying the etiologies, especially treatable and preventable causes, can direct health professionals toward proper management. Measurement of serum leptin levels is helpful in the diagnosis of congenital leptin and leptin receptor deficiencies which are considered important rare causes of early childhood obesity. The main aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of LEP, LEPR, and MC4R gene variants among a cohort of Egyptian patients with severe early onset obesity. The current cross-sectional study included 30 children who developed obesity during the first year of life with BMI > 2SD (for age and sex). The studied patients were subjected to full medical history taking, anthropometric measurements, serum leptin and insulin assays, and genetic testing of LEP, LEPR and MC4R. Disease causing variants in LEP and LEPR were identified in 10/30 patients with a detection rate of 30%. Eight different homozygous variants (two pathogenic, three likely pathogenic, and three variants of uncertain significant) were identified in the two genes, including six previously unreported LEPR variants. Of them, a new frameshift variant in LEPR gene (c.1045delT, p.S349Lfs*22) was recurrent in two unrelated families and seems to have a founder effect in our population. In conclusion, we reported ten new patients with leptin and leptin receptor deficiencies and identified six novel LEPR variants expanding the mutational spectrum of this rare disorder. Furthermore, the diagnosis of these patients helped us in genetic counseling and patients' managements specially with the availability of drugs for LEP and LEPR deficiencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: Leptin is an adipocyte-derived hormone with a critical role in energy balance. As demonstrated by previous investigations, leptin acts as a proliferative and angiogenic factor in cancer cells. However, results regarding its role in colorectal cancer are still inconclusive. We aimed to evaluate serum leptin and tissue expression of leptin receptor (Ob-R) in normal and malignant samples of colorectal. Methods: Serum and tissue samples from pathology-confirmed colorectal cancer patients and normal controls referring to a university hospital of Mazandaran were obtained during 2019-21. ELISA and immunohistochemistry were applied to determine leptin and Ob-R expression respectively. Results: A total of 90 samples belonging to 46 normal and 44 CRC patients were enrolled. Normal and CRC groups included 32 (69.56%) and 21 (47.72%) female subjects respectively. The average leptin concentration in the normal group was 115.80 and, in the patient, group was 124.47 ng/mL (P=0.897). CRC cases showed an insignificantly higher Ob-R detection rate (P=0.086). Conclusion: There was no significant difference in leptin and Ob-R expression between CRC patients and normal subjects. Thus, leptin and its receptor may not be useful as a biomarker of CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High wetting resistance membranes are developed to reduce wetting issues during membrane distillation (MD). Functionalization agents are used to improve the wetting characteristics of the prepared membranes. In this study, two pristine membranes of polyvinylidene fluoride with different solvents (N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone and triethyl phosphate) were prepared to compare their wetting characteristics. The polyvinylidene fluoride/triethyl phosphate (PTEP) membrane exhibited a high liquid entry pressure (LEP) of 2.63 bar, while the polyvinylidene fluoride/N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone membrane obtained a lower LEP of 0.30 bar. In this work, an ideal natural water repellent was introduced to synthesize a high wetting resistance membrane with comparison of fluoroalkyl silane. The selected PTEP membrane was improved by adding functionalized montmorillonite (Mt) with 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorooctyl-trichlorosilane (FOTS, fs-Mt) and carnauba wax (fw-Mt). The addition of fs-Mt and fw-Mt particles to the PTEP membrane significantly increased the LEP and contact angle (CA) of the prepared membranes. The Pfw-Mt membrane obtained the highest LEP value (4.10 bar) with a CA of 124°. The permeate flux of Pfs-Mt and Pfw-Mt membranes improved to 6.86 and 4.12 L/m2h, respectively, after 16 h of separation. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy proved the absence of Na and Cl elements in the inner morphology of Pfw-Mt membranes after 24 h of direct contact membrane distillation. Hence, Pfw-Mt membrane can be an alternative MD membrane for salt removal in long-term operation due to the self-cleaning effect that prevents membrane fouling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Many conflicting results have been obtained in the study of leptin (LEP) and leptin receptor (LEPR) gene variants that are associated with the obesity and diabetes possibly due to differences in the study populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the metabolic hormones (leptin, ghrelin, adiponectin, resistin) levels in the blood of obese patients in relation to the GHRL (rs696217), LEP (rs7799039), LEPR (rs1137100, rs1137101, rs1805094) polymorphism in Ukrainian population.

ObjectivesDriven by beneficial patient-centered outcomes associated with patient portal use and the Affordable Care Act, portal implementation has expanded into safety nets-health systems that offer access to care to a large share of uninsured, Medicaid, and other vulnerable populations. However, little attention has been paid to the factors that affect portal accessibility by the vulnerable patients served by these health systems-including those who are limited English proficient (LEP).Materials and methodsThe Los Angeles County Department of Health Services (LAC DHS), the second-largest safety net system in the nation, launched its first patient portal, and one of the few bilingual English-Spanish interfaces in existence, in March of 2015. To explore portal awareness and perceptions, we conducted focus groups with LAC DHS patients, in English and Spanish (LEP). The Technology Acceptance Model was used to guide thematic analysis of focus group data.ResultsOf the 46 participants, 37 were patients and 9 were caretakers; 23 were English-speaking and 23 Spanish-speaking LEP. All patients had diabetes or hypertension. Over half had an annual household income

Abstract Regulations addressing provision of healthcare services to individuals from diverse cultures and with limited English proficiency (LEP) are reviewed and balanced against ethical considerations with respect to a provider’s competency in conducting such services. Federal regulations require providers at institutions receiving Federal financial assistance to provide services to individuals without allowing factors such as LEP to act as barriers to those services. However, regulations addressing these factors are not absolute, and must be applied reasonably, with respect to: the number of individuals who speak a particular language in an area, the criticalness of the services, and the costs to and resources of the provider’s institution. Thresholds based on numbers of individuals speaking a language requiring provision of language assistance services are reviewed. It is also noted that a provider’s competency in conducting a particular service to patients from diverse backgrounds may be factored as a resource, while accessing appropriate tools and knowledge to provide services to a particular group may be factored as a cost. A review of relevant issues pertaining to competence in conducting cross-cultural evaluations with an emphasis on LEP is presented, followed by case samples in which potential conflicts between regulations and provider ethical obligations are resolved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Infertility is the situation in which pregnancy cannot be achieved despite unprotected sexual intercourse within at least one year. Male infertility can range from the entire absence of spermatozoa in the testicles (azoospermia) to noticeable variations in sperm quality. The patients with a mutation in the leptin (LEP) gene have been reported to be infertile and the patients with a mutation in the Leptin Receptor (LEPR) gene were shown to lack pubertal development. This study was performed to state if there is a relationship between azoospermic male infertility and LEP gene -2548G>A and LEPR gene Q223R polymorphisms. Materials and Methods: One hundred thirty-seven azoospermic infertile men and a hundred fertile men were included in this study. DNAs obtained from peripheral blood of participants were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) along with restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) technics.. Results: In terms of LEP -2548G>A (rs7799039) and LEPR Q223R (rs1137101) polymorphisms, no statistically remarkable distinction was observed in the genotype and allele distributions of azoospermic infertile and fertile men. In the composite genotype analysis, it was determined that the GGQR composite genotype was approximately 9 times more common in azoospermic infertile men than in fertile men (8.8% vs. 1.0%). Conclusion: It has been determined that LEP -2548G>A and LEPR Q223R polymorphisms may have a dual effect in azoospermic male infertility. We believe that more efficient and precise results can be obtained by conducting these studies in larger populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2017, Washington State passed a law requiring life-safety alerts and warnings to be delivered to its residents in languages they understand. In response, King County Emergency Management and its partners developed an inclusive emergency communications plan to address this challenge. A key goal of this plan was the development of a trusted partner network (TPN), run by volunteers from the county's various language and ethnic groups, to relay timely life-safety alerts to their communities, in order to save additional lives and property. This paper outlines the development of the TPN from concept to activation, and shares the lessons learned along the way. It also describes the limitations of the programme and the various factors that jurisdictions should consider before replicating such a programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What does the United States need to do - and what could it reasonably not do - in terms of ensuring the reliability of its nuclear arsenal and reducing the huge cost currently foreseen for maintaining that reliability? Clearly, in our view, the United States could invest less in what is broadly called "nuclear modernization" and still maintain a reliable nuclear arsenal. Reducing such investments, however, would require hard decisions about the overall shape of the US arsenal and the need to continue to support some legs of the current triad of nuclear-capable airplanes and land- and sea-based missiles. The United States could for example reduce costs without compromising security by phasing out the most vulnerable leg of the triad, ground-based nuclear missiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveEvaluate a community-based navigator intervention to increase breast cancer patients' and survivors' access to information about health research participation opportunities.MethodsIn the context of a Community Based Participatory Research collaboration, we conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial of the Health Research Engagement Intervention with pre- and post-intervention surveys (n = 133). The primary outcome was health research information-seeking behavior. Secondary outcomes were health research knowledge, willingness to participate in health research, and health empowerment. Qualitative interviews (n = 11) elucidated participant perspectives on the intervention.ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference between intervention and control groups' information-seeking behavior. Knowledge that not all health research studies are about drugs or treatments increased significantly from pre- to post-test among intervention group participants (32% to 48%, p = 0.012), but not in the control group (43% to 30%, p = 0.059); the difference between arms was statistically significant (p = 0.0012). Although survey responses indicated willingness to participate, qualitative interviews identified competing priorities that limited participants' motivation to seek enrollment information.Conclusions and practice implicationsCommunity-based navigators are a trusted, and therefore promising link between health research and low-income underserved communities. However, systemic barriers in health research infrastructures need to be addressed to include low income, LEP and immigrant populations.

A study of the intrabreed variability of four single nucleotide polymorphisms in the RORC, GHR, Lep, and LepR genes associated with meat productivity was carried out for the first time in five samples of the Kostroma breed of dairy and beef cattle. A comparison was also made with known data for two related beef breeds (Aberdeen Angus and Russian Polled). The same alleles of loci of the studied genes prevailed in frequency both in all samples of the Kostroma breed and in the two additional breeds involved for the joint analysis. The distribution of genotype frequencies in all Kostroma breed samples did not deviate from the Hardy–Weinberg distribution. According to a complex of studied markers, a differentiation of the Kostroma breed samples from each other and from the Aberdeen Angus and Russian Polled breeds was detected by a multidimensional scaling method based on pairwise FST values and using a G test. The analysis of the Kostroma breed samples with two other breeds by Bayesian clustering method identified four latent genetic structures. All types of clusters were found in the Kostroma breed, while only a few were found in the Aberdeen Angus and Russian Polled breeds. A different contribution of the studied loci in intra- and interbreed differentiation was established. Thus, the Lep and LepR genes showed themselves at the intrabreed level, and the RORC gene, at the interbreed level. At the same time, the GHR gene locus was characterized by the greatest variability. In general, according to the loci of the studied genes, the intrabreed variability of the Kostroma breed was comparable to the interbreed variability. The results are discussed with regard to the involvement of these loci in population processes in the studied cattle breeds and justify the need for a more detailed study of intrabreed variability by SNP markers associated with breeding valuable traits for the whole spectrum of breeds, regardless of their productive orientation: beef or dairy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), for which obesity and genetics are known risk factors, is a chronic process that alters the structure and function of the intervertebral discs (IVD). Circulating leptin is positively correlated with body weight and is often measured to elucidate the pathogenesis of IVD degeneration. In this study, we examined the associations of LEP single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) genetic and environmental effects with IVDD. A total of 303 Taiwanese patients with IVDD (mean age, 58.6 ± 12.7 years) undergoing cervical discectomy for neck pain or lumbar discectomy for back pain were enrolled. Commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits measured the circulating plasma leptin levels. TaqMan SNP genotyping assays genotyped the LEP SNPs rs2167270 and rs7799039. Leptin levels were significantly increased in obese individuals (p < 0.001) and non-obese or obese women (p < 0.001). In the dominant model, recoded minor alleles of rs2167270 and rs7799039 were associated with higher leptin levels in all individuals (p = 0.011, p = 0.012). Further, the association between these LEP SNPs and leptin levels was significant only in obese women (p = 0.025 and p = 0.008, respectively). There was an interaction effect between sex and obesity, particularly among obese women (interaction p = 0.04 and 0.02, respectively). Our findings demonstrate that these SNPs have sex-specific associations with BMI in IVDD patients, and that obesity and sex, particularly among obese women, may modify the LEP transcription effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: What are the main findings? A majority of electrical accident victims with persisting symptoms show small/large nerve fiber dysfunction. Abnormal QST and/or neurography results were present in 67% of patients. No test result strongly correlated with self-reported symptoms. Objective: Work related electrical accidents are prevalent and can cause persisting symptoms. We used clinical neurophysiological techniques to assess neurosensory function following electrical accidents and correlated test results with the patients' symptoms. Methods: We studied 24 patients who reported persisting neurosensory symptoms following a workplace electrical accident. We assessed nerve function using quantitative sensory testing (QST), thermal roller testing, laser evoked potential (LEP), and electroneurography. The patients' results were compared with previously established normative data. Results: Altogether, 67% of the patients showed at least one neurosensory impairment with a large heterogeneity in test results across patients. At a group level, we observed significant deviations in in QST, LEP, and sensory and motor neurography. Overall, we found a weak correlation between test results and self-reported symptoms. Conclusions: In a majority of patients with neurosensory symptoms after a workplace electrical accident, neurosensory testing confirmed the existence of an underlying impairment of the nervous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying variation in genes responsible for physiological characters is important to enhance goat productive and reproductive efficiency. This study aimed to detect specific nucleotide polymorphisms in prolactin receptor (PRLR), insulin-like growth factor (IGF1), and leptin (LEP) genes and their correlation with milk production (MP) and litter size (LS) traits in Zaraibi goat. PCR-SSCP products of different patterns of each gene were sequenced and aligned to reveal two mutations (T > C) and (G > A) in 3′UTR of PRLR gene and registered on NCBI with accession numbers OM418863 for TT and OM418864 for CT, while (G > A) variation was registered as OM418861 for GG and OM418862 for AG in exon 10. TT, CT, AG, and GG genotypes were distributed in the studied animals with frequencies 0.43, 0.57, 0.65, and 0.35, respectively. While alleles C, T, A, and G frequencies were 0.28, 0.72, 0.32, and 0.68, respectively. CT and AG genotypes associated significantly (P < 0.05) with higher MP and LS, respectively. By studying the haplotypes of PRLR, C-A and T-A were associated with the highest and the lowest level of MP, respectively. For LS, T-A and C-G showed significant correlation with the highest and the lowest rate, respectively. Regarding IGF1 gene, two polymorphisms were detected; T74C at exon 4 which registered on NCBI as OM418860, and combined mutations as ins. G470, A531G, and T534C (PP genotype) at 5′ flanking region that registered as OM418859. For LEP, only one polymorphism was found in intron 2 (G281A) which submitted to NCBI as OM418855. All detected polymorphisms have shown to be involved in regulating the MP or LS as reproductive traits in goat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a complex metabolic condition in which both lifestyle and genetic factors have a pathogenic role. The LEP gene encodes leptin, which regulates appetite, body weight, and several metabolic functions. Proopiomelanocortin (POMC), regulates food intake and energy balance. The aim of the study was to determine partial or complete deletions of genes associated with obesity in patients diagnosed with NAFLD. Material and methods: Blood samples and DNA from 43 individuals diagnosed with NAFLD by ultrasonographic technique (Fibroscan) were obtained. The partial or complete deletions of genes were determined by MLPA (Multiplex Ligation‐dependent Probe Amplification) using the SALSA probemix P220‐B2 Obesity only on 43 individuals. Fifty blood samples from healthy individuals were included. Results: Eleven out of 43 individuals analyzed by MLPA presented some deletion of the genes analyzed: six were female and five were male. The partial or complete deletion of the LEPR and POMC genes was observed in eight patients (18.6%), SIM1 in six patients (13.9%), GRIK2 and SH2B1 in two patients (4.7%), SEZGL2 in four patients (9.3%), and MCR4 in one patient (2.3%). Conclusion: Partial deletion was observed in LEPR, POMC, SIM1, GRIK2, SH2B1, SEZGL2, and MCR4 genes in 26% of the cases, and we suggest that these alterations probably has a potential relationship for the development of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with limited English proficiency frequently receive substandard health care. Asynchronous telepsychiatry (ATP) has been established as a clinically valid method for psychiatric assessments. The addition of automated speech recognition (ASR) and automated machine translation (AMT) technologies to asynchronous telepsychiatry may be a viable artificial intelligence (AI)-language interpretation option. Objective: This project measures the frequency and accuracy of the translation of figurative language devices (FLDs) and patient word count per minute, in a subset of psychiatric interviews from a larger trial, as an approximation to patient speech complexity and quantity in clinical encounters that require interpretation. Methods: A total of 6 patients were selected from the original trial, where they had undergone 2 assessments, once by an English-speaking psychiatrist through a Spanish-speaking human interpreter and once in Spanish by a trained mental health interviewer-researcher with AI interpretation. 3 (50%) of the 6 selected patients were interviewed via videoconferencing because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Interview transcripts were created by automated speech recognition with manual corrections for transcriptional accuracy and assessment for translational accuracy of FLDs. Results: AI-interpreted interviews were found to have a significant increase in the use of FLDs and patient word count per minute. Both human and AI-interpreted FLDs were frequently translated inaccurately, however FLD translation may be more accurate on videoconferencing. Conclusions: AI interpretation is currently not sufficiently accurate for use in clinical settings. However, this study suggests that alternatives to human interpretation are needed to circumvent modifications to patients' speech. While AI interpretation technologies are being further developed, using videoconferencing for human interpreting may be more accurate than in-person interpreting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to assess the influence of genetic polymorphisms in DGAT1 , LEP , and SCD1 on the oxidative stress biomarkers and bioactive protein levels in Hereford bulls. A total of sixty-eight bulls were analyzed at 22 months of age to assess growth metrics and carcass quality, with a focus on polymorphisms in these genes. The key markers of oxidative stress, including malondialdehyde (MDA), and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione reductase (GluRed), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured, alongside bioactive compounds like taurine, carnosine, and anserine. The results show that the TT genotype of DGAT1 is linked to significantly higher MDA levels, reflecting increased lipid peroxidation, but is also associated with higher GluRed and GPx activities and elevated levels of taurine, carnosine, and anserine, suggesting an adaptive response to oxidative stress. The LEP gene analysis revealed that the CC genotype had the highest MDA levels but also exhibited increased GPx and SOD activities, with the CT genotype showing the highest SOD activity and the TT genotype the highest total antioxidant status (TAS). The SCD1 AA genotype displayed the highest activities of GluRed, GPx, and SOD, indicating a more effective antioxidant defence, while the VA genotype had the highest MDA levels and the VV genotype showed lower MDA levels, suggesting protective effects against oxidative damage. These findings highlight genotype specific variations in the oxidative stress markers and bioactive compound levels, providing insights into the genetic regulation of oxidative stress and antioxidant defences, which could inform breeding strategies for improving oxidative stress resistance in livestock and managing related conditions.

Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors have no conflicts of interest relevant to this article to disclose.

Health equity exists when everyone has an equal opportunity to achieve their highest level of health. Effective communication is essential to ensure a therapeutic relationship. Patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) experience communication barriers, leading to poorer outcomes. Federal regulation requires hospitals to provide medically trained interpreters; however, this does not always occur. We identified 3 broad areas of research: communication barriers, outcomes, and costs. Findings highlight the challenges patients with LEP face in the health-care system, and the need for targeted interventions to enhance language access, improve cultural competence among health-care professionals, and ensure equitable outcomes for all., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

This study aimed to screen intron 8 of the leptin receptor (LEPR) gene for polymorphisms in female Japanese quails. Two adjacent novel SNPs (A277G and A304G) were detected using PCR-SSCP and sequencing. These SNPs produced three haplotypes (AA/AA, AG/AG, and GG/GG) that were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) associated with growth and egg production traits. GG/GG haplotype-quails had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower egg production, feed intake, growth performance, lipid profile, serum levels of sex hormones (estradiol, progesterone, FSH, LH), and ovarian expressions of survivin, FSHR, and IGF1 than other quails. However, GG/GG quails had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher serum levels of LEP and mRNA levels of LEPR, LEP, and caspase 3 in the hypothalamus and ovaries. These higher levels of LEP/LEPR could not only reduce feed intake and body weight gain but also could induce apoptosis of ovarian cells (as indicated by lower survivin and IGF1 and higher caspase3 expression) which could inhibit the development of the follicles and the release of sex hormones with a subsequent decrease in egg production in GG/GG quails. Therefore, with these results, we suggest selecting Japanese quails with AA/AA and AG/AG haplotypes to improve the reproduction and growth performance of this flock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immigrants encounter many obstacles when accessing adequate healthcare services in a new country, including linguistic inequities. Nurses should use professional interpreters during healthcare encounters with patients with limited English proficiency but consider patient preferences for informal interpretation services, documenting their wishes as a clinical note in the medical record. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]