bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental Disorder and Women’s Recidivism: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pettersen Cathrine , Wanamaker Kayla A. , Garvey Meghan L. , Brown Shelley L. , Goodwin Julie
Published: November 2023

This study quantitatively summarizes existing empirical research on the relationship between specific mental disorders and recidivism among justice-impacted women using meta-analysis. Eighteen studies were included following a comprehensive literature search. Results indicated that depression, PTSD, psychiatric history, and presence of any mental disorder (relative to no mental disorder) were independently and significantly associated with small increases in recidivism rates. Anxiety, psychosis-related and unspecified personality disorders, and self-harm/suicidality were not significantly related to recidivism. Findings support the gender-responsive position that some mental disorders are criminogenic and correctional practice should be guided by holistic, mental health- and trauma-informed approaches.
Memory of Fictional Information: A Theoretical Framework
Authors: Gander Pierre , Szita Kata , Falck Andreas , Lowe Robert
Published: November 2023

Much of the information people encounter in everyday life is not factual; it originates from fictional sources, such as movies, novels, and video games, and from direct experience such as pretense, role-playing, and everyday conversation. Despite the recent increase in research on fiction, there is no theoretical account of how memory of fictional information is related to other types of memory or of which mechanisms allow people to separate fact and fiction in memory. We present a theoretical framework that places memory of fiction in relation to other cognitive phenomena as a distinct construct and argue that it is an essential component for any general theory of human memory. We show how fictionality can be integrated in an existing memory model by extending Rubin’s dimensional conceptual memory model. By this means, our model can account for explicit and implicit memory of fictional information of events, places, characters, and objects. Further, we propose a set of mechanisms involving various degrees of complexity and levels of conscious processing that mostly keep fact and fiction separated but also allow information from fiction to influence real-world attitudes and beliefs: content-based reasoning, source monitoring, and an associative link from the memory to the concept of fiction.
How Pharmacies and Retailer Shops Convey Information on Health Products to Their Customers
Authors: MacEachern Kelsey , Levine Mitchell
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Natural health products are frequently used by many people. However, many of these individuals do not discuss these products with their physicians, and instead seek information about the products from pharmacies or natural health product retailers. Previous research has shown that not all pharmacists are comfortable answering questions about these products as they receive little training in this area; natural health product retailers are unregulated and receive training at their own discretion. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the information provided by pharmacies and natural health product retailers pertaining to use, adverse effects, and potential drug interactions for four currently popular products: garlic, peppermint, black licorice, and apple cider vinegar.

Methods

The literature surrounding these products was reviewed and compared to information provided by pharmacies and natural health product retailers. The interviews were conducted by an investigator who presented as a potential client to closely mimic real-world interactions. Statistical analysis was limited to generating proportions and 95% confidence intervals for statements made about each product.

Results

Overall, 10% of statements that were made regarding the uses for the four natural health products were consistent with the evidence-based literature, 40% of statements were consistent with the common use of the products, 47% of statements were inconsistent with the literature and 3% of statements reflected general opinions about the product. There was variation in the accuracy of statements depending on which product was discussed. When discussing adverse effects associated with the products 38% of statements made by pharmacists and 44% made by NHP retailers were consistent with the literature. Sixty-nine percent of pharmacists and 44% of NHP retailers correctly identified potential drug interactions for the products.

Discussion

The majority of statements were consistent with common use but few evidence-based statements were made and a large proportion of statements that were inconsistent with literature were made. Most interviewees required prompting to discuss adverse effects and potential drug interactions.

Conclusions

This study highlights a need for increased training of pharmacists and natural health product retailers to ensure that they are familiar with these popular natural health products and can provide accurate information to clients regarding use, adverse effects, and possible drug interactions.
Associations of Estradiol With Mortality and Health Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lau Lina , Wiebe Natasha , Ramesh Sharanya , Ahmed Sofia , Klarenbach Scott , Carrero Juan-Jesus , Stenvinkel Peter , Thorand Barbara , Senior Peter , Tonelli Marcello , Bello Aminu K.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Both lower and higher estradiol (E2) levels have been associated with increased mortality among women with kidney failure. However, robust data are still lacking.

Objective:

We investigated the interaction of diabetes and age on linear and nonlinear associations between E2 levels, adverse outcomes, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in Canadian women undergoing hemodialysis (HD).

Design:

Population-based cohort study; data from Canadian Kidney Disease Cohort Study (CKDCS).

Setting & patients:

A total of 427 women undergoing HD enrolled in the CKDCS.

Measurements:

Baseline E2 (in pmol/L) and E2 tertiles (<38 pmol/L, 38-95 pmol/L, >95 pmol/L).

Methods:

Cox-proportional hazards used for all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Fine-Gray models used for incident CVD. Mixed models used for Health Utilities Index Mark 3 (HUI3), Kidney Disease Quality of Life Physical Component Scores (KDQOL12-PCS), and Mental Component Scores (KDQOL12-MCS).

Results:

Over a median follow-up of 3.6 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1.6-7.5) years, 250 (58.6%) participants died; 74 deaths (29.6%) were CV-related. Among 234 participants without prior CV events, 80 (34.2%) had an incident CVD event. There were no significant linear associations between E2 and all-cause mortality, CVD mortality, and incident CVD. However, E2 showed a significant concave association with all-cause mortality, but not with CVD mortality and incident CVD. Among patients aged ≥63 years, higher E2 levels were associated with lower HUI3 scores, mean difference (MD) = –0.062 per 1 – SD pmol/L, 95% confidence interval (CI) = –0.112 to –0.012, but the opposite was observed in younger patients (<63 years) in whom higher E2 levels were associated with higher HUI3 scores (MD = 0.032 per 1 – SD pmol/L, 95% CI = 0.008-0.055), Pinteraction = .045. No associations were observed among E2, KDQOL12-PCS (MD = –0.15 per 1 – SD pmol/L, 95% CI = –1.15 to 0.86), and KDQOL12-MCS (MD = –0.63 per 1 – SD pmol/L, 95% CI = –1.82 to 0.57).

Limitations:

Unmeasured confounding and small sample size.

Conclusions:

The association between E2 and all-cause mortality may be nonlinear, while no association was observed for CVD mortality, incident CVD, KDQOL12-PCS, and KDQOL12-MCS. Furthermore, the association between serum E2 and HUI3 was modified by age: Higher levels were associated with higher utility among women aged <63 years and the converse observed among older women.
Gender and Leadership: Student Perspectives on Gender Stereotypes in Round Square Schools
Authors: Hassan Kanwal Syeda , Wright Ewan
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Leadership is a valuable skill for young people to navigate transformations in modern societies and find solutions to overcome global crises. However, gender stereotypes regarding leadership persist, potentially limiting female students’ leadership aspirations, experiences, and opportunities in schools. This study explores student perspectives on gender and leadership through the conceptual lens of student voice.

Design/Approach/Methods

Interviews were conducted with students ( n = 93) from 12 Round Square secondary schools in 11 countries: Australia, Argentina, Chile, China, India (two schools), New Zealand, the United States, Korea, Switzerland, Tanzania, and South Africa.

Findings

The findings demonstrate how interest in developing and practicing leadership transcends gender. The students exhibited a deep conviction in their ability to initiate change through leadership in their schools and communities. However, female students were more cognizant of gender stereotypes regarding leadership and how this represented a barrier to realizing leadership opportunities.

Originality/Value

This study presents students’ perspectives on leadership and gender in contexts that appear favorable for student leadership. Primarily, it argues that although schools may seek to promote equality in leadership opportunities, female students often remain comparatively sensitive to and aware of gender stereotypes. Overall, the study highlights the complex and deeply entrenched barriers to female leadership.
Depression among older adults in an urban slum of Raipur city – a community based cross-sectional study
Authors: Kumar Mohan , Ruikar Manisha , Surya V. L.
Published: November 2023

Background

Older adults are at risk of chronic, silent depressive changes and the vulnerability of older adults in urban slums of India is rarely exposed. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of depression among the older adults in the urban slums of India and to study the factors associated with it.

Methods

This was a community based analytical cross-sectional study conducted in Urban Field Practice Area of a tertiary care teaching hospital in Chhattisgarh, India among older adults more than or equal to 60 years of age selected using two stage, simple random sampling. The data was collected in a sample of 400 older adults by face-to-face interview using self-designed, semi-structured and pretested proforma that included validated Hindi version of Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) and analyzed using SPSS v23.

Results

The prevalence of depression among older adults was 51.5% in the present study; with 27%, 12.8% and 11.8% having mild, moderate and severe depression respectively. Number of family members, living status of spouse, emotional attachment to family members, conflict in family, loneliness, social isolation, marginal friendship ties, functional status, physical exercise, active complains and diastolic BP were independent predictors of depression in older adults.

Conclusion

Early identification of depression in older adults using GDS-15 and incorporation of social isolation and functionality assessment routinely by healthcare providers for all older adults attending the outpatient departments is the need of the hour. A holistic approach to care of older adults is vital as healthcare providers seek to understand the impact of multiple, complex, interconnected factors on overall health and well-being of older adults.
Laboratory markers to identify acute histological chorioamnionitis in febrile parturients undergoing epidural analgesia: a retrospective study
Authors: Xu Chenyang , Fan Chong , Zhang Jingjing , Zeng Xin , Fan Yuru , Feng Shanwu
Published: November 2023

Background

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the pathological staging of acute histological chorioamnionitis (HCA) on laboratory indicators and to conduct further studies to reassess the threshold values used by clinicians to identify acute HCA in febrile parturients undergoing epidural analgesia.

Methods

A retrospective study of febrile mothers receiving epidural analgesia at Nanjing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. The participants were grouped by the progression of acute HCA, and the laboratory parameters were compared between groups. The ability of C-reactive protein (CRP), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and monocyte-leukocyte ratio (M%), alone or in combination, to identify acute HCA in febrile parturients undergoing epidural analgesia was assessed using logistic regression and ROC curves.

Results

The area under the curve (AUC) of the best logistic regression model predicting HCA climbed to 0.706 (CRP + MLR). Maternal CRP, NLR, and MLR significantly and progressively increased with the progression of acute HCA (p < 0.0001). Based on the ROC curves, the following thresholds were selected to define increased laboratory indicators for identifying acute HCA: CRP ≥ 6.90 mg/L, NLR ≥ 11.93, and MLR ≥ 0.57. In addition, the AUC of the best logistic regression model predicting HCA ≥ stage 2 was 0.710, so these inflammatory markers were more precise in predicting HCA ≥ stage 2.

Conclusion

Increased CRP (≥ 6.90 mg/L), NLR (≥ 11.93), and MLR (≥ 0.57) may help clinicians to identify early potential acute HCA in febrile parturients receiving epidural analgesia and to monitor progression to optimize clinical treatment options.

Trial registration

The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on November 24, 2021 (http://www.chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR2100053554).
Angiotensin-(1–7) suppresses airway inflammation and airway remodeling via inhibiting ATG5 in allergic asthma
Authors: Xu Jianfeng , Yu Zhenyu , Liu Xueping
Published: November 2023

Background

Angiotensin (Ang)-(1–7) can reduce airway inflammation and airway remodeling in allergic asthma. Autophagy-related 5 (ATG5) has attracted wide attentions in asthma. However, the effects of Ang-(1–7) on ATG5-mediated autophagy in allergic asthma are unclear.

Methods

In this study, human bronchial epithelial cell (BEAS-2B) and human bronchial smooth muscle cell (HBSMC) were treated with different dose of Ang-(1–7) to observe changes of cell viability. Changes of ATG5 protein expression were measured in 10 ng/mL of interleukin (IL)-13-treated cells. Transfection of ATG5 small interference RNA (siRNA) or ATG5 cDNA in cells was used to analyze the effects of ATG5 on secretion of cytokines in the IL-13-treated cells. The effects of Ang-(1–7) were compared to the effects of ATG5 siRNA transfection or ATG5 cDNA transfection in the IL-13-treated cells. In wild-type (WT) mice and ATG5 knockout (ATG5−/−) mice, ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway inflammation, fibrosis and autophagy were observed. In the OVA-induced WT mice, Ang-(1–7) treatment was performed to observe its effects on airway inflammation, fibrosis and autophagy.

Results

The results showed that ATG5 protein level was decreased with Ang-(1–7) dose administration in the IL-13-treated BEAS-2B and IL13-treated HBSMC. Ang-(1–7) played similar results to ATG5 siRNA that it suppressed the secretion of IL-25 and IL-13 in the IL-13-treated BEAS-2B cells, and inhibited the expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein in the IL-13-treated HBSMC cells. ATG5 cDNA treatment significantly increased the secretion of IL-25 and IL-13 and expression of TGF-β1 and α-SMA protein in IL-13-treated cells. Ang-(1–7) treatment suppressed the effects of ATG5 cDNA in the IL-13-treated cells. In OVA-induced WT mice, Ang-(1–7) treatment suppressed airway inflammation, remodeling and autophagy. ATG5 knockout also suppressed the airway inflammation, remodeling and autophagy.

Conclusions

Ang-(1–7) treatment suppressed airway inflammation and remodeling in allergic asthma through inhibiting ATG5, providing an underlying mechanism of Ang-(1–7) for allergic asthma treatment.
Relationship of the nursing practice environment with the quality of care and patients’ safety in primary health care
Authors: Lucas Pedro , Jesus Élvio , Almeida Sofia , Araújo Beatriz
Published: November 2023

Background

Nursing practice environment has impact on the quality of nursing care and on patients’ and nurses’ outcomes, namely better performances of these healthcare workers. Improving the nursing practice environment is a low-cost organizational strategy to achieve better patients’ outcomes and retain qualified nurses, thus improving nursing care of units, healthcare organizations and healthcare system. This study aims to analyse the relationship between nursing practice environment and the nurses` perception of quality of care, patient safety, and safety culture in Primary Health Care in Portugal.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional study using data from RN4CAST Portugal. The sample was composed of 1059 nurses from 55 Health Center Groups of the mainland Portugal, 15 Health Centers of the Autonomous Region of Madeira and 6 Health Centers of the Autonomous Region of the Azores. Multivariate analysis and correlation analysis methods were used for data processing.

Results

Nurses consider that, in the Portuguese Primary Health Care, there is a mixed and unfavourable nursing practice environment, with a perception of a good quality of care, and both acceptable patients’ safety and safety culture. The Collegial Nurse-Physician Relations and Nursing Foundations for Quality of Care dimensions to have the best ratings. The perception of Primary Health Care nurses on the dimension Nurse Participation in Organization Affairs was the one that showed the lowest score, followed by Staffing and Resource Adequacy and Nurse Manager Ability, Leadership, and Support of Nurses. Based on perception of nurses, the relationship between the nursing practice environment and the safety culture is higher, followed by the quality of care and patients’ safety.

Conclusions

The perception of Primary Health Care nurses is that there is an unfavourable and mixed nursing practice environment, with good quality of care, and acceptable patient safety and safety culture. The quality of the nursing practice environments is associated to better quality and safety of care. Thus, improving the nursing practice environments in healthcare organizations is a low-cost organizational strategy to achieve greater patients and nurses’ outcomes, improving the quality of nursing care to patients in the Primary Health Care units.
Nanoengineered injectable hydrogels derived from layered double hydroxides and alginate for sustained release of protein therapeutics in tissue engineering applications
Authors: Phan V. H. Giang , Duong Hai-Sang , Le Quynh-Giao Thi , Janarthanan Gopinathan , Vijayavenkataraman Sanjairaj , Nguyen Hoang-Nam Huynh , Nguyen Bich-Phuong Thi , Manivasagan Panchanathan , Jang Eue-Soon , Li Yi , Thambi Thavasyappan
Published: November 2023

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) which involves gradual loss of kidney function is characterized by low levels of a glycoprotein called Erythropoietin (EPO) that leads to red blood cell  deficiency and anemia. Recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) injections that are administered intravenously or subcutaneously is the current gold standard for treating CKD. The rhEPO injections have very short half-lives and thus demands frequent administration with a risk of high endogenous EPO levels leading to severe side effects that could prove fatal. To this effect, this work provides a novel approach of using lamellar inorganic solids with a brucite-like structure for controlling the release of protein therapeutics such as rhEPO in injectable hydrogels. The nanoengineered injectable system was formulated by incorporating two-dimensional layered double hydroxide (LDH) clay materials with a high surface area into alginate hydrogels for sustained delivery. The inclusion of LDH in the hydrogel network not only improved the mechanical properties of the hydrogels (5–30 times that of alginate hydrogel) but also exhibited a high binding affinity to proteins without altering their bioactivity and conformation. Furthermore, the nanoengineered injectable hydrogels (INHs) demonstrated quick gelation, injectability, and excellent adhesion properties on human skin. The in vitro release test of EPO from conventional alginate hydrogels (Alg-Gel) showed 86% EPO release within 108 h while INHs showed greater control over the initial burst and released only 24% of EPO in the same incubation time. INH-based ink was successfully used for 3D printing, resulting in scaffolds with good shape fidelity and stability in cell culture media. Controlled release of EPO from INHs facilitated superior angiogenic potential in ovo (chick chorioallantoic membrane) compared to Alg-Gel. When subcutaneously implanted in albino mice, the INHs formed a stable gel in vivo without inducing any adverse effects. The results suggest that the proposed INHs in this study can be utilized as a minimally invasive injectable platform or as 3D printed patches for the delivery of protein therapeutics to facilitate tissue regeneration.
Targeting the hedgehog pathway in MET mutation cancers and its effects on cells associated with cancer development
Authors: Du Yifan , Sun Huimin , Shi Zhiyuan , Sui Xiuyuan , Liu Bin , Zheng Zeyuan , Liu Yankuo , Xuan Zuodong , Zhong Min , Fu Meiling , Bai Yang , Zhang Qian , Shao Chen
Published: November 2023

The mutation of MET plays a crucial role in the initiation of cancer, while the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway also plays a significant role in cell differentiation and the maintenance of tumor stem cells. Conventional chemotherapy drugs are primarily designed to target the majority of cell populations within tumors rather than tumor stem cells. Consequently, after a brief period of remission, tumors often relapse. Moreover, the exclusive targeting of tumor stemness cell disregards the potential for other tumor cells to regain stemness and acquire drug resistance. As a result, current drugs that solely target the HGF/c-MET axis and the Hh pathway demonstrate only moderate efficacy in specific types of cancer. Mounting evidence indicates that these two pathways not only play important roles in cancer but also exert significant influence on the development of resistance to single-target therapies through the secretion of their own ligands. In this comprehensive review, we analyze and compare the potential impact of the Hh pathway on the tumor microenvironment (TME) in HGF/c-MET-driven tumor models, as well as the interplay between different cell types. Additionally, we further substantiate the potential and necessity of dual-pathway combination therapy as a critical target in MET addicted cancer treatment.
FTO facilitates cancer metastasis by modifying the m6A level of FAP to induce integrin/FAK signaling in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Gao Lirong , Wang Anqi , Chen Yuling , Cai Xin , Li Yue , Zhao Jian , Zhang Yang , Zhang Weijie , Zhu Jianjie , Zeng Yuanyuan , Liu Zeyi , Huang Jian-an
Published: November 2023

Background

Emerging evidence suggests the critical roles of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. However, the role of m6A in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is still unclear. This study aimed to explore the role of the m6A demethylase fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) in the tumor metastasis of NSCLC.

Methods

A human m6A epitranscriptomic microarray analysis was used to identify downstream targets of FTO. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT‒PCR) and western blotting were employed to evaluate the expression levels of FTO and FAP in NSCLC cell lines and tissues. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function assays were conducted in vivo and in vitro to assess the effects of FTO and FAP on NSCLC metastasis. M6A-RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP), RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), luciferase reporter assays, and RNA stability assays were used to explore the mechanism of FTO action. Co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) assays were used to determine the mechanism of FAP in NSCLC metastasis.

Results

FTO was upregulated and predicted poor prognosis in patients with NSCLC. FTO promoted cell migration and invasion in NSCLC, and the FAK inhibitor defactinib (VS6063) suppressed NSCLC metastasis induced by overexpression of FTO. Mechanistically, FTO facilitated NSCLC metastasis by modifying the m6A level of FAP in a YTHDF2-dependent manner. Moreover, FTO-mediated metastasis formation depended on the interactions between FAP and integrin family members, which further activated the FAK signaling.

Conclusion

Our current findings provided valuable insights into the role of FTO-mediated m6A demethylation modification in NSCLC metastasis. FTO was identified as a contributor to NSCLC metastasis through the activation of the FAP/integrin/FAK signaling, which may be a potential therapeutic target for NSCLC.
Comparative metabolomics analysis reveals high-altitude adaptations in a toad-headed viviparous lizard, Phrynocephalus vlangalii
Authors: Zhang Xuejing , Men Shengkang , Jia Lun , Tang Xiaolong , Storey Kenneth B. , Niu Yonggang , Chen Qiang
Published: November 2023

Extreme environmental conditions at high altitude, such as hypobaric hypoxia, low temperature, and strong UV radiation, pose a great challenge to the survival of animals. Although the mechanisms of adaptation to high-altitude environments have attracted much attention for native plateau species, the underlying metabolic regulation remains unclear. Here, we used a multi-platform metabolomic analysis to compare metabolic profiles of liver between high- and low-altitude populations of toad-headed lizards, Phrynocephalus vlangalii, from the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. A total of 191 differential metabolites were identified, consisting of 108 up-regulated and 83 down-regulated metabolites in high-altitude lizards as compared with values for low-altitude lizards. Pathway analysis revealed that the significantly different metabolites were associated with carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, purine metabolism, and glycerolipid metabolism. Most intermediary metabolites of glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle were not significantly altered between the two altitudes, but most free fatty acids as well as β-hydroxybutyric acid were significantly lower in the high-altitude population. This may suggest that high-altitude lizards rely more on carbohydrates as their main energy fuel rather than lipids. Higher levels of phospholipids occurred in the liver of high-altitude populations, suggesting that membrane lipids may undergo adaptive remodeling in response to low-temperature stress at high altitude. In summary, this study demonstrates that metabolic profiles differ substantially between high- and low-altitude lizard populations, and that these differential metabolites and metabolic pathways can provide new insights to reveal mechanisms of adaptation to extreme environments at high altitude.
A shift in psychiatry through AI? Ethical challenges
Authors: Wilhelmy Saskia , Giupponi Giancarlo , Groß Dominik , Eisendle Klaus , Conca Andreas
Published: November 2023

The digital transformation has made its way into many areas of society, including medicine. While AI-based systems are widespread in medical disciplines, their use in psychiatry is progressing more slowly. However, they promise to revolutionize psychiatric practice in terms of prevention options, diagnostics, or even therapy. Psychiatry is in the midst of this digital transformation, so the question is no longer “whether” to use technology, but “how” we can use it to achieve goals of progress or improvement. The aim of this article is to argue that this revolution brings not only new opportunities but also new ethical challenges for psychiatry, especially with regard to safety, responsibility, autonomy, or transparency. As an example, the relationship between doctor and patient in psychiatry will be addressed, in which digitization is also leading to ethically relevant changes. Ethical reflection on the use of AI systems offers the opportunity to accompany these changes carefully in order to take advantage of the benefits that this change brings. The focus should therefore always be on balancing what is technically possible with what is ethically necessary.
Xinyang tablet ameliorates sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction by regulating Beclin-1 to mediate macrophage autophagy and M2 polarization through LncSICRNT1 targeting E3 ubiquitin ligase TRAF6
Authors: Luo Yuanyuan , Li Yuanmei , He Liwei , Tu Haitao , Lin Xinfeng , Zhao Fengli , Huang Yusheng , Wen Minyong , Wang Lingjun , Yang Zhongqi
Published: November 2023

Objective

Xinyang Tablet (XYT) has emerged as a potential intervention to counter sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction (SMID) by influencing macrophage autophagy and M2 polarization. This study aimed to unravel the underlying mechanism of XYT in sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction (SIMD).

Methods

A microarray analysis was employed to explore sepsis-related changes, and bioinformatics analysis was used to predict lncRNAs binding to tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6). This studio utilized SIMD mouse models induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection, followed by treatments involving varied doses of XYT, digoxin (positive control), or si-LncSICRNT1. After seven days, evaluations encompassing mouse hair/mental state/diet/weight were measured, and cardiac function via echocardiography were conducted. Myocardial tissue changes were observed using hematoxylin–eosin staining. Additionally, bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) subjected to LPS for M1 polarization were treated with oe-LncSICRNT1, si-TRAF6 and their negative control, XYT, or autophagy inhibitor 3-Methyladenine (3-MA) (positive control). RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses were employed to assess LncSICRNT1, TRAF6, Beclin-1, LC3II/LC3I, and p62 levels. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry were used for M1/M2 polarization markers, while enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) gauged inflammatory factor levels. Interaction between TRAF6 and LncSICRNT1 was probed using RNA pull-down and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays.

Results

Chip analysis obtained 1463 differentially expressed lncRNAs, including LINC01550 (LncSICRNT1). Further prediction indicated that LncSICRNT1 was highly likely to directly bind to TRAF6. XYT treatment in LPS-induced SIMD mice led to notable enhancements in sleep/hair/diet/activity, increased weight/left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDd)/LV ejection fraction (LVEF)/LV fraction shortening (LVFS). These improvements were associated with elevated LncSICRNT1 expression and decreased TRAF6 protein levels, culminating in reduced myocardial inflammatory responses and improved cardiac function. Notably, XYT was found to suppress macrophage M1 polarization, while enhancing M2 polarization, ultimately benefitting cardiac function via LncSICRNT1 modulation. Furthermore, the study revealed LncSICRNT1 modulated Beclin-1 ubiquitination and restrained macrophage autophagy by targeting TRAF6 expression.

Conclusion

The study highlights XYT’s potential to ameliorate LPS-induced SIMD by elevating LncSICRNT1 expression, influencing TRAF6 expression, and regulating Beclin-1 ubiquitination. These actions collectively inhibit macrophage autophagy and foster M1/M2 polarization, contributing to cardiac function improvement.
The Field’s mass shooting: emergency medical services response
Authors: Hansen Peter Martin , Mikkelsen Søren , Alstrøm Henrik , Damm-Hejmdal Anders , Rehn Marius , Berlac Peter Anthony
Published: November 2023

Background

Major incidents (MI) happen infrequently in Scandinavia and mass shootings are even less frequently occurring. Case reports and research are called for, as literature is scarce. On 3rd July 2022, a mass shooting took place at the shopping mall Field’s in Copenhagen, Denmark. Three people were killed and seven injured by a gunman, firing a rifle inside the mall. A further 21 people suffered minor injuries during the evacuation of the mall. In this case report, we describe the emergency medical services (EMS) incident response and evaluate the EMS´ adherence to the MI management guidelines to identify possible areas of improvement.

Case presentation

Forty-eight EMS units including five Tactical Emergency Medical Service teams were dispatched to the incident. Four critically injured patients were taken to two trauma hospitals. The deceased patients were declared dead at the scene and remained there for the sake of the investigation. A total of 24 patients with less severe and minor injuries were treated at four different hospitals in connection with the attack. The ambulance resources were inherently limited in the initial phase of the MI, mandating improvisation in medical incident command. Though challenged, Command and Control, Safety, Communication, Assessment, Triage, Treatment, Transport (CSCATTT) principles were followed.

Conclusions

The EMS response generally adhered to national guidelines for MI. The activation of EMS and the hospital preparedness program was relevant. Important findings were communication shortcomings; inherent lack of readily available ambulance resources in the initial critical phase; uncertainty regarding the number of perpetrators; uncertainty regarding number of casualties and social media rumors that unnecessarily hampered and prolonged the response. The incident command had to use non-standard measures to mitigate potential challenges.
CCN3/NOV serum levels in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients and its correlation with TNF-α and IL-6
Authors: Fadhil Jaafar Alaa , Afrisham Reza , Fadaei Reza , Farrokhi Vida , Moradi Nariman , Abbasi Ali , Einollahi Nahid
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Dysregulation in the secretion of adipokines or adipocytokines plays a significant role in triggering a pro-inflammatory state, leading to endothelial dysfunction and insulin resistance, and ultimately elevating the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD). Previous studies have shown a link between NOV/CCN3 (an adipokine) and obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. However, no research has explored the relationship between CCN3 serum levels and CAD. Therefore, we conducted the first investigation to examine the correlation between CCN3 and CAD risk factors in patients.

Methods

In a case-control study, we measured the serum levels of CCN3, IL-6, adiponectin, and TNF-α in 88 angiography-confirmed CAD patients and 88 control individuals using ELISA kits. Additionally, we used an auto analyzer and commercial kits to measure the biochemical parameters.

Results

In patients with CAD, the serum levels of CCN3, TNF-α, and IL-6 were significantly higher compared to the control group, whereas lower levels of adiponectin were observed in the CAD group (P < 0.0001). A positive correlation was found between CCN3 and IL-6 and TNF-α in the CAD group ([r = 0.38, P < 0.0001], [r = 0.39, P < 0.0001], respectively). A binary logistic regression analysis showed the risk of CAD in the model adjusted (OR [95% CI] = 1.29 [1.19 − 1.41]), (P < 0.0001). We determined a cut-off value of CCN3 (3169.6 pg/mL) to distinguish CAD patients from the control group, with good sensitivity and specificity obtained for this finding (83.8% and 87.5%, respectively).

Conclusion

This study provides evidence of a positive association between CCN3 serum levels and CAD, as well as inflammation markers such as IL-6 and TNF-α. These findings suggest that CCN3 may serve as a potential biomarker for CAD, and further investigations are necessary to validate this association and explore its potential use in clinical settings.
Sex matters for the enhancement of cognitive training with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
Authors: Weller Simone , Derntl Birgit , Plewnia Christian
Published: November 2023

Background

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can influence brain network activity and associated cognitive and behavioural functions. In addition to the extensive variety in stimulation parameters, numerous biological factors drive these effects, however these are yet poorly understood. Here, we investigate one of the major biological factors by focusing on sex-dependent effects of tDCS on a challenging cognitive control task (adaptive paced auditory serial addition task[PASAT]) in healthy humans.

Methods

This sex-specific re-analysis was performed on data of 163 subjects who underwent a 2-week cognitive control training (6 sessions in total). Subjects received either verum (anodal/cathodal) or sham tDCS. Electrodes were placed over the left or right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the respective contralateral deltoid muscle. Cognitive control was measured as performance in the PASAT and was analysed in respect to stimulation conditions (sham, anodal, cathodal) and sex.

Results

Regardless of stimulation condition, performance gains between the sexes were higher in females compared to males (p = 0.0038). Female’s performance during anodal tDCS exceeded male’s (p = 0.0070), yet no effects were found for cathodal or sham tDCS. Moreover, in females we found a superior effect for anodal tDCS over sham stimulation (fanodal:p = 0.0354; fcathodal:p = 0.6181), but no such effect in males (manodal:p = 0.6882; mcathodal:p = 0.4822).

Conclusions

This study highlights the relevance of biological sex for the effects of tDCS on cognitive training. Thus, an increased attention to biological sex is advisable in future brain stimulation research to highlight and in consequence better understand potentially underlying sex-specific mechanisms. Considering biological sex will further advance customisation and individualisation of tDCS interventions.

Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04108663.
Soluble immune checkpoints are elevated in patients with primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Gao Xiuzhu , Wang Xiaomei , Guan Yazhe , Wang Liquan , Gao Yanhang , Niu Junqi
Published: November 2023

Background

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronically progressive liver disease mediated by an autoimmune response. The aetiology and pathogenesis of PBC are not fully understood and may be related to immune disorders caused by genetic factors and their interaction with environmental factors. Immune checkpoints play an important role in preventing the occurrence of autoimmunity. However, the level of immune checkpoints in PBC has not been reported. Here, we aimed to identify the serum levels of soluble checkpoints in patients with PBC.

Methods

Soluble checkpoint levels were evaluated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 60 patients with PBC and 20 healthy controls (HCs). The expression of immune checkpoints was compared in liver biopsy tissue samples using immunohistochemistry. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUCs) were used to determine the diagnostic performance of soluble checkpoints and laboratory indexes between patients with PBC and HCs and patients with mild and advanced PBC. A logistic regression was performed for advanced PBC.

Results

sCD134, sLAG-3, sPD-1, sPD-L1, and sTIM-3 levels were significantly increased in patients with PBC compared with those in healthy controls. Additionally, the levels of sCD134, sPD-1, sPD-L1, and sTIM-3 were positively associated with disease progression. Moreover, soluble checkpoints were correlated with immunoglobulin and liver functions. ROC analyses between patients with PBC and HCs showed that the AUCs of sOX40, sPD-1, and sPD-L1 were 0.967, 0.922, and 0.971, respectively. The optimal cut-off values of sOX40, sPD-1, and sPD-L1 for PBC diagnosis were 89.15, 213.4, and 68, respectively. ROC analyses between mild and advanced patients with PBC revealed that the AUCs of sOX40 and sTIM-3 were 0.767 and 0.765, respectively. The optimal cut-off values for predicting PBC stage ≥ III were 199.45 and 361.5, respectively. In univariate analysis, age, ALB, and sOX40 were associated with advanced PBC. Further, the expression of CD134 and TIM-3 was upregulated in the liver of patients with PBC.

Conclusions

Our study results indicate that the serum titer of soluble checkpoints is increased in Chinese patients with PBC.
Comparison between the brief seven-item and full eating disorder examination-questionnaire (EDE-Q) in clinical and non-clinical female Norwegian samples
Authors: Bang Lasse , Nordmo Morten , Nordmo Magnus , Vrabel Karianne , Danielsen Marit , Rø Øyvind
Published: November 2023

Background

The Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) is among the most widely used self-report measures of eating disorder (ED) psychopathology. There is a need for brief versions of the EDE-Q that can be used for general assessment and screening purposes. A three-factor 7-item version (EDE-Q7) seems particularly promising but there is a need for more well-powered studies to establish the psychometric properties in both patient and community samples. Moreover, comparing the EDE-Q7 with the full EDE-Q would be beneficial in determining its utility. In the present study, we provide a psychometric comparison between the brief EDE-Q7 and the full EDE-Q in a large sample of both patients and community comparisons.

Methods

We pooled available datasets collected in Norway to amass a large female sample comprising both patients (n = 1954, Mage = 28 years) and community comparisons (n = 2430, Mage = 31 years). We investigated the psychometric properties of both versions, including their internal consistency, factor structure, and ability to discriminate between patients and community comparisons.

Results

The EDE-Q7 showed similar distributions of scores compared to the full EDE-Q but produced higher scores. Results indicated that the EDE-Q7 have acceptable internal consistency and is adequately able to discriminate between clinical and non-clinical samples. A cut-off threshold of 3.64 was optimal in discriminating between patients and comparisons. We also found support for the three-factor solution for the EDE-Q7, indicating good structural validity. In contrast, we did not find support for the originally proposed four-factor solution of the full EDE-Q.

Conclusions

We find that the brief EDE-Q7 performs close to the full EDE-Q in several respects. Our findings indicate that the brief EDE-Q7 may be a viable alternative to the full EDE-Q in situations where response burden is an issue (e.g., epidemiological studies). However, the EDE-Q7 may hold limited value over the full EDE-Q in clinical settings, due to the small number of items and lack of assessment of behavioral features.
Validation of PREDICT Version 2.2 in a Retrospective Cohort of Indian Women With Operable Breast Cancer
Authors: Nair Nita S. , Kothari Bhavika , Gupta Sudeep , Kanann Sadhana , Vanmali Vaibhav , Hawaldar Rohini , Tondare Ashutosh , Siddique Shabina , Parmar Vani , Joshi Shalaka , Badwe RA
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE

Online prediction models that use known prognostic factors in breast cancer (BC) are routinely used to assist in decisions for adjuvant therapy. PREDICT Version 2.2 (P2.2) is one such online tool, which uses tumor size, lymph node involvement, grade, age, hormone receptor status, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status, and Ki67. We performed an external validation in a retrospective cohort of patients treated at a tertiary center in India.

METHODS

Women with operable BC between 2008 and 2016 with nonmetastatic, T1-T2 invasive, and HER2 receptor–negative BC and with available 5-year overall survival (OS) data were selected. Median predicted 5-year OS rates were used to calculate predicted events for the whole cohort and subgroups. The chi-square test was used to evaluate the goodness of fit of the tool.

RESULTS

Of 11,760 cases registered between 2008 and 2016, 2,783 (23.66%) eligible patients with a median age of 50 (26-70) years and a median pT size of 2.5 (0.1-5) cm, 2,037 (73.19%) with grade 3 tumors, 1,172 (42.11%) with node-positive disease, 817 (29.35%) with triple-negative breast cancer, and 1,966 (70.64%) with HR-positive BC were included in the analysis. The observed 5-year OS and predicted 5-year OS in the whole cohort were 94.8% and 90.00%, respectively, with an absolute difference of 4.8% (95% CI, 3.417 to 6.198, P < .001). The observed 5-year OS and predicted 5-year OS were also different in various subgroups.

CONCLUSION

PREDICT version 2.2 overestimated the number of deaths, with lower predicted 5-year OS compared with the observed value, in this retrospective Indian cohort. The reasons for this discrepancy could be differing biologic characteristics and possible selection bias in our cohort. We recommend a prospective validation of PREDICT in Indian patients and advocate caution in its use until such validation is achieved.
Biden Hears a WHO
Authors: Thompson Charis
Published: November 2023

The World Health Organization (WHO), the body charged with implementing global pandemic response, figured heavily in the Republican and Democratic campaigns of the 2020 US presidential election. The contrast was stark: Donald Trump drew on and ramped up dissatisfaction with the United Nations system in general and the WHO in particular, culminating in his decision to pull the US out of the WHO in the middle of the pandemic, while Joe Biden rescinded the decision to leave the WHO the day after assuming the presidency. Despite this difference, neither party heeded renewed calls during COVID to put health justice and primary healthcare at the heart of global health policy. Both parties continued to prefer private philanthropic sources of funding for global vaccine initiatives, and both sought economic returns on vaccine development, potentially missing a rare opportunity to incorporate global health justice into US global health diplomacy.
Radioactive Mosquito Bite and Its Surreal Life
Authors: Morimoto Ryo
Published: November 2023

The article explores the tensions between the state, science, and the lived experience among the residents in the aftermath of the 2011 nuclear accident in Fukushima. The author proposes the analytics of the “surreal” to apprehend the incommensurable divide invisible radiation in society had produced between the state’s technoscientific focus on making the radiation visible and people’s diverse everyday experience of radiation in various aspects of life. Ethnographically retelling the struggles of a medical doctor who came to understand the manifold consequences of the accident in coastal Fukushima, the article shows how social science is a critical stakeholder in addressing the surreal to mediate between science and the lay public, the state and citizen, and risk and life to prevent the individuation of risk perceptions that follow with the emergence of invisible hazards in society.
The Morality of Investment
Authors: Vaughn Sarah E.
Published: November 2023

This article details how the influence of financial investment on insurance has produced a morality discourse that provides new insights on a social theory of stigma. Specifically, it examines the Insurance Development Forum (IDF) and the role morality plays in its commitments to climate governance. Initially conceived by political leaders advising on disaster risk reduction at a 2013 UN General Assembly meeting, the IDF recognizes financial institutions, practices, and devices as integral to addressing climate change. Through its activities and investments in an open-access database, insurance has come to shape material claims about the reputational status of people, things, natures, and places. At the heart of the article's analysis is the observation that the organizational structure of the IDF depends on the efficient flow of information to manage the stigma often associated with finance capitalism.