bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel PSMB8 isoform associated with multiple sclerosis lesions induces P-body formation
Authors: Shaw Benjamin C. , Williams Jessica L.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Current therapies primarily target the inflammatory component of the disease and are highly effective in early stages of MS while limited therapies have an effect in the more chronic progressive stages of MS where resident glia have a larger role. MS lesions tend to be inflammatory even after the initial peripheral immune cell invasion has subsided and this inflammation is known to cause alternative splicing events.

Methods

We used qPCR of normal-appearing white matter and white matter lesions from postmortem MS tissue, in vitro studies, and immunostaining in MS tissue to investigate the alternative splicing of one gene known to be important during recovery in an animal model of MS, PSMB8.

Results

We found a novel, intron-retained isoform which has not been annotated, upregulated specifically in MS patient white matter lesions. We found that this novel isoform activates the nonsense-mediated decay pathway in primary human astrocytes, the most populous glial cell in the CNS, and is then degraded. Overexpression of this isoform in astrocytes leads to an increased number of processing bodies in vitro, the primary site of mRNA decay. Finally, we demonstrated that MS white matter lesions have a higher burden of processing bodies compared to normal-appearing white matter, predominantly in GFAP-positive astrocytes.

Discussion

The increase in alternative splicing of the PSMB8 gene, the stress that this alternative splicing causes, and the observation that processing bodies are increased in white matter lesions suggests that the lesion microenvironment may lead to increased alternative splicing of many genes. This alternative splicing may blunt the protective or reparative responses of resident glia in and around white matter lesions in MS patients.
Synaptic defects in a drosophila model of muscular dystrophy
Authors: Sidisky Jessica M. , Winters Alex , Caratenuto Russell , Babcock Daniel T.
Published: May 2024

Muscular dystrophies are a devastating class of diseases that result in a progressive loss of muscle integrity. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, the most prevalent form of Muscular Dystrophy, is due to the loss of functional Dystrophin. While much is known regarding destruction of muscle tissue in these diseases, much less is known regarding the synaptic defects that also occur in these diseases. Synaptic defects are also among the earliest hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases, including the neuromuscular disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Our current study investigates synaptic defects within adult muscle tissues as well as presynaptic motor neurons in Drosophila dystrophin mutants. Here we demonstrate that the progressive, age-dependent loss of flight ability in dystrophin mutants is accompanied by disorganization of Neuromuscular Junctions (NMJs), including impaired localization of both presynaptic and postsynaptic markers. We show that these synaptic defects, including presynaptic defects within motor neurons, are due to the loss of Dystrophin specifically within muscles. These results should help to better understand the early synaptic defects preceding cell loss in neuromuscular disorders.
Focused ultrasound as a treatment modality for gliomas
Authors: Nwafor Divine C. , Obiri-Yeboah Derrick , Fazad Faraz , Blanks William , Mut Melike
Published: May 2024

Ultrasound waves were initially used as a diagnostic tool that provided critical insights into several pathological conditions (e.g., gallstones, ascites, pneumothorax, etc.) at the bedside. Over the past decade, advancements in technology have led to the use of ultrasound waves in treating many neurological conditions, such as essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease, with high specificity. The convergence of ultrasound waves at a specific region of interest/target while avoiding surrounding tissue has led to the coined term “focused ultrasound (FUS).” In tumor research, ultrasound technology was initially used as an intraoperative guidance tool for tumor resection. However, in recent years, there has been growing interest in utilizing FUS as a therapeutic tool in the management of brain tumors such as gliomas. This mini-review highlights the current knowledge surrounding using FUS as a treatment modality for gliomas. Furthermore, we discuss the utility of FUS in enhanced drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) and highlight promising clinical trials that utilize FUS as a treatment modality for gliomas.
A sensorimotor enhanced neuromusculoskeletal model for simulating postural control of upright standing
Authors: Shanbhag Julian , Fleischmann Sophie , Wechsler Iris , Gassner Heiko , Winkler Jürgen , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Koelewijn Anne D. , Wartzack Sandro , Miehling Jörg
Published: May 2024

The human's upright standing is a complex control process that is not yet fully understood. Postural control models can provide insights into the body's internal control processes of balance behavior. Using physiologically plausible models can also help explaining pathophysiological motion behavior. In this paper, we introduce a neuromusculoskeletal postural control model using sensor feedback consisting of somatosensory, vestibular and visual information. The sagittal plane model was restricted to effectively six degrees of freedom and consisted of nine muscles per leg. Physiologically plausible neural delays were considered for balance control. We applied forward dynamic simulations and a single shooting approach to generate healthy reactive balance behavior during quiet and perturbed upright standing. Control parameters were optimized to minimize muscle effort. We showed that our model is capable of fulfilling the applied tasks successfully. We observed joint angles and ranges of motion in physiologically plausible ranges and comparable to experimental data. This model represents the starting point for subsequent simulations of pathophysiological postural control behavior.
Face detection mechanisms: Nature vs. nurture
Authors: Kobylkov Dmitry , Vallortigara Giorgio
Published: May 2024

For many animals, faces are a vitally important visual stimulus. Hence, it is not surprising that face perception has become a very popular research topic in neuroscience, with ca. 2000 papers published every year. As a result, significant progress has been made in understanding the intricate mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. However, the ontogeny of face perception, in particular the role of innate predispositions, remains largely unexplored at the neural level. Several influential studies in monkeys have suggested that seeing faces is necessary for the development of the face-selective brain domains. At the same time, behavioural experiments with newborn human babies and newly-hatched domestic chicks demonstrate that a spontaneous preference towards faces emerges early in life without pre-existing experience. Moreover, we were recently able to record face-selective neural responses in the brain of young, face-naïve chicks, thus demonstrating the existence of an innate face detection mechanism. In this review, we discuss these seemingly contradictory results and propose potential experimental approaches to resolve some of the open questions.
Modulation of reaching by spatial attention
Authors: Breveglieri Rossella , Brandolani Riccardo , Diomedi Stefano , Lappe Markus , Galletti Claudio , Fattori Patrizia
Published: May 2024

Attention is needed to perform goal-directed vision-guided movements. We investigated whether the direction of covert attention modulates movement outcomes and dynamics. Right-handed and left-handed volunteers attended to a spatial location while planning a reach toward the same hemifield, the opposite one, or planned a reach without constraining attention. We measured behavioral variables as outcomes of ipsilateral and contralateral reaching and the tangling of behavioral trajectories obtained through principal component analysis as a measure of the dynamics of motor control. We found that the direction of covert attention had significant effects on the dynamics of motor control, specifically during contralateral reaching. Data suggest that motor control was more feedback-driven when attention was directed leftward than when attention was directed rightward or when it was not constrained, irrespectively of handedness. These results may help to better understand the neural bases of asymmetrical neurological diseases like hemispatial neglect.
Diet quality and anxiety: a critical overview with focus on the gut microbiome
Authors: Basso Melissa , Zorzan Irene , Johnstone Nicola , Barberis Matteo , Cohen Kadosh Kathrin
Published: May 2024

Anxiety disorders disproportionally affect females and are frequently comorbid with eating disorders. With the emerging field of nutritional psychiatry, focus has been put on the impact of diet quality in anxiety pathophysiology and gut microbiome underlying mechanisms. While the relationship between diet and anxiety is bidirectional, improving dietary habits could better facilitate the actions of pharmacological and psychological therapies, or prevent their use. A better understanding of how gut bacteria mediate and moderate such relationship could further contribute to develop personalized programs and inform probiotics and prebiotics manufacturing. To date, studies that look simultaneously at diet, the gut microbiome, and anxiety are missing as only pairwise relationships among them have been investigated. Therefore, this study aims at summarizing and integrating the existing knowledge on the dietary effects on anxiety with focus on gut microbiome. Findings on the effects of diet on anxiety are critically summarized and reinterpreted in relation to findings on (i) the effects of diet on the gut microbiome composition, and (ii) the associations between the abundance of certain gut bacteria and anxiety. This novel interpretation suggests a theoretical model where the relationship between diet and anxiety is mediated and/or modulated by the gut microbiome through multiple mechanisms. In parallel, this study critically evaluates methodologies employed in the nutritional field to investigate the effects of diet on anxiety highlighting a lack of systematic operationalization and assessment strategies. Therefore, it ultimately proposes a novel evidence-based approach that can enhance studies validity, reliability, systematicity, and translation to clinical and community settings.
Exploring the causal association between genetically determined circulating metabolome and hemorrhagic stroke
Authors: Wang Yaolou , Shen Yingjie , Li Qi , Xu Hangjia , Gao Aili , Li Kuo , Rong Yiwei , Gao Shang , Liang Hongsheng , Zhang Xiangtong
Published: May 2024

Background

Hemorrhagic stroke (HS), a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, has not been clarified in terms of the underlying biomolecular mechanisms of its development. Circulating metabolites have been closely associated with HS in recent years. Therefore, we explored the causal association between circulating metabolomes and HS using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis and identified the molecular mechanisms of effects.

Methods

We assessed the causal relationship between circulating serum metabolites (CSMs) and HS using a bidirectional two-sample MR method supplemented with five ways: weighted median, MR Egger, simple mode, weighted mode, and MR-PRESSO. The Cochran Q-test, MR-Egger intercept test, and MR-PRESSO served for the sensitivity analyses. The Steiger test and reverse MR were used to estimate reverse causality. Metabolic pathway analyses were performed using MetaboAnalyst 5.0, and genetic effects were assessed by linkage disequilibrium score regression. Significant metabolites were further synthesized using meta-analysis, and we used multivariate MR to correct for common confounders.

Results

We finally recognized four metabolites, biliverdin (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.40–0.96, PMVMR = 0.030), linoleate (18. 2n6) (OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.08–0.54, PMVMR = 0.001),1-eicosadienoylglycerophosphocholine* (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.02–4.76, PMVMR = 0.044),7-alpha-hydroxy-3 -oxo-4-cholestenoate (7-Hoca) (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.09–0.77, PMVMR = 0.015) with significant causal relation to HS.

Conclusion

We demonstrated significant causal associations between circulating serum metabolites and hemorrhagic stroke. Monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment of hemorrhagic stroke by serum metabolites might be a valuable approach.
Lipid-lowering, antihypertensive, and antithrombotic effects of nattokinase combined with red yeast rice in patients with stable coronary artery disease: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Liu Man , Xu Ziyi , Wang Zongling , Wang Di , Yang Mingzhe , Li Hui , Zhang Wei , He Ruikun , Cheng Huimin , Guo Peiyu , Li Zhongxia , Liang Hui
Published: May 2024

Nattokinase (NK) and red yeast rice (RYR) are both indicated for their potential in cardiovascular disease prevention and management, but their combined effects especially in coronary artery disease (CAD) are scarcely examined. This 90-day randomized, double-blind trial aims to investigate the effect of NK and RYR supplementations on cardiometabolic parameters in patients with stable CAD. 178 CAD patients were randomized to four groups: NK + RYR, NK, RYR, and placebo. No adverse effects due to the interventions were reported. In comparisons across groups, NK + RYR showed the maximum effect in reducing triglyceride (−0.39 mmol), total cholesterol (−0.66 mmol/L), diastolic blood pressure (−7.39 mmHg), and increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (0.195 mmol/L) than other groups (all p for multiple groups comparison<0.01). Both NK + RYR and NK groups had significantly better-improved lactate dehydrogenase than the others (−29.1 U/L and − 26.4 U/L). NK + RYR group also showed more potent reductions in thromboxane B2 and increases in antithrombin III compared to placebo (both p < 0.01). These improved markers suggest that combined NK and RYR may preferably alter antithrombin and COX-1 pathways, potentially reducing thrombosis risks in CAD patients. Overall, the combined NK and RYR supplementation is safe and more effective than separately in improving cardiometabolic markers among CAD patients with multiple heart medications use.
The impact of agricultural insurance on consumer food safety: empirical evidence from provincial-level data in China
Authors: Ruan Peiheng , Yin Sihan , Zhang Yongchang
Published: May 2024

In the exploration of the efficacy of agricultural subsidy policies, agricultural insurance, as a key element of this policy system, has garnered widespread attention for its potential impact on consumer food safety. This paper delves into the influence of agricultural insurance on the safety of food consumed by individuals, based on provincial panel data in China from 2011 to 2021. The findings indicate that agricultural insurance significantly reduces the incidence of foodborne disease and enhances food safety. Mediating effect tests reveal that agricultural insurance effectively boosts food safety through two key pathways: promoting innovation in agricultural technology and reducing environmental pollution. Moreover, the analysis of moderating effects highlights that increased consumer confidence positively enhances the impact of agricultural insurance. Heterogeneity tests further show that in the provinces with higher levels of agricultural development and stronger government support for agriculture, the role of agricultural insurance in improving food safety is more pronounced. This research not only empirically verifies the effectiveness of agricultural insurance in enhancing food safety but also provides robust theoretical support and practical guidance for the precise formulation and effective implementation of agricultural subsidy policies, particularly agricultural insurance policies, offering significant reference value for policy-makers.
Desensitizing the autonomic nervous system to mitigate anti-GD2 monoclonal antibody side effects
Authors: Mora Jaume , Climent Alejandra , Roldán Mònica , Flores Marta Cecilia , Varo Amalia , Perez-Jaume Sara , Jou Cristina , Celma Mónica S. , Lazaro Juan José , Cheung Irene , Castañeda Alicia , Gorostegui Maite , Rodriguez Eva , Chamorro Saray , Muñoz Juan Pablo , Cheung Nai-Kong
Published: May 2024

Background

Anti-GD2 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have shown to improve the overall survival of patients with high-risk neuroblastoma (HR-NB). Serious adverse events (AEs), including pain, within hours of antibody infusion, have limited the development of these therapies. In this study, we provide evidence of Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) activation as the mechanism to explain the main side effects of anti-GD2 mAbs.

Methods

Through confocal microscopy and computational super-resolution microscopy experiments we explored GD2 expression in postnatal nerves of infants. In patients we assessed the ANS using the Sympathetic Skin Response (SSR) test. To exploit tachyphylaxis, a novel infusion protocol (the Step-Up) was mathematically modelled and tested.

Results

Through confocal microscopy, GD2 expression is clearly visible in the perineurium surrounding the nuclei of nerve cells. By computational super-resolution microscopy experiments we showed the selective expression of GD2 on the cell membranes of human Schwann cells in peripheral nerves (PNs) significantly lower than on NB. In patients, changes in the SSR were observed 4 minutes into the anti-GD2 mAb naxitamab infusion. SSR latency quickly shortened followed by gradual decrease in the amplitude before disappearance. SSR response did not recover for 24 hours consistent with tachyphylaxis and absence of side effects in the clinic. The Step-Up protocol dissociated on-target off-tumor side effects while maintaining serum drug exposure.

Conclusion

We provide first evidence of the ANS as the principal non-tumor target of anti-GD2 mAbs in humans. We describe the development and modeling of the Step-Up protocol exploiting the tachyphylaxis phenomenon we demonstrate in patients using the SSR test.
Knowledge, attitudes, and current practices toward lung cancer palliative care management in China: a national survey
Authors: Chen Mengting , Hui Suocheng , Huang Yalan , Yu Huiqing , Yang Hong , Yang Liejun , Tian Ling , Wang Sixiong
Published: May 2024

Scope

The present investigation seeks to illuminate the current state and disparities in the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among healthcare professionals regarding the management of lung cancer palliative care (LCPC) in China, while simultaneously assessing the prevalence and context of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) usage in the management of cancer-related pain.

Methods

A total of 2093 healthcare practitioners from 706 hospitals across China completed a structured questionnaire that probed various facets of LCPC management. The questionnaire consisted of seven thematic sections, incorporating chi-square tests and Fisher’s exact probabilities to statistically assess the discrepancies in KAP among healthcare professionals across different hospital grades. Ordered data distributions among hospital grades were compared using non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis H and Mann-Whitney U tests. Multiple-choice items were subjected to multiple-response cross-tabulation analysis, while the Spearman rank-order correlation coefficient was employed to gauge potential associations among variables.

Results

Around 84.2% of the respondents perceived anti-tumor therapy to be of equal importance to palliative care. Statistically significant differences (χ² = 27.402, P = 0.002) in satisfaction levels were observed, with participants from Tertiary hospitals demonstrating higher satisfaction compared to those from Secondary and Primary hospitals. Pain emerged as the most prevalent symptom necessitating LCPC. Major impediments to LCPC adoption included patients’ and families’ concerns about the safety of long-term palliative care-related drug use. 31.1% of the respondents cited the most frequent rationale for PCA use as cases involving patients who required systemic administration of large opioid doses or exhibited intolerable adverse reactions to opioids. The principal deterrents against the use of PCA for cancer pain management were (1): apprehension about adverse drug reactions due to overdose (2), concern about the potential for opioid addiction, and (3) the anticipated increase in patients’ economic burdens. Over the preceding 24-month period, 33.9% of the surveyed healthcare practitioners reported no engagement in either online or offline LCPC-related training initiatives.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the pressing need for comprehensive training in LCPC among Chinese health personnels, particularly focusing on the effective management of cancer pain symptoms.
Case report: Pulmonary artery sarcoma diagnosed through rare brain metastases
Authors: Tan Na , Ouyang Zhiqiang , Duan Xirui , Zhou Xinyan , Zhu Yu , Chu Jixiang , Luo Dan , Dai Hai-Long , Liao Chengde
Published: May 2024

We present the case of a 33-year-old male referred across several hospitals because of suspected chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Initially admitted in October 2022 for a recurrent, severe cough and diagnosed with CTEPH, he received anticoagulant therapy. However, his symptoms worsened, necessitating a transfer to another facility for thrombolysis treatment. Following an episode of syncope, an MRI scan revealed a metastatic brain tumor. Subsequently, he experienced a third transfer to our hospital, emergency surgery was performed to alleviate cerebral edema and excise a lesion in the left frontal lobe. Postoperative pathology was inconclusive, but a multidisciplinary team meeting, aided by experienced radiologists, eventually confirmed a diagnosis of pulmonary artery sarcoma (PAS) with systemic metastases. This case underscores the necessity of promptly ruling out PAS in patients presenting with significant emboli in the central pulmonary arteries and suggests early referral to specialized centers for suspected cases.
Phase II trial of vaccination with autologous, irradiated melanoma cells engineered by adenoviral mediated gene transfer to secrete granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor in patients with stage III and IV melanoma
Authors: Sussman Tamara A. , Severgnini Mariano , Giobbie-Hurder Anita , Friedlander Philip , Swanson Scott J. , Jaklitsch Michael , Clancy Thomas , Goguen Laura A. , Lautz David , Swanson Richard , Daley Heather , Ritz Jerome , Dranoff Glenn , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: May 2024

Background

In the era of immune checkpoint blockade, the role of cancer vaccines in immune priming has provided additional potential for therapeutic improvements. Prior studies have demonstrated delayed type hypersensitivity and anti-tumor immunity with vaccines engineered to secrete granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The safety, efficacy and anti-tumor immunity of GM-CSF secreting vaccine in patients with previously treated stage III or IV melanoma needs further investigation.

Methods

In this phase II trial, excised lymph node metastases were processed to single cells, transduced with an adenoviral vector encoding GM-CSF, irradiated, and cryopreserved. Individual vaccines were composed of 1x106, 4x106, or 1x107 tumor cells, and were injected intradermally and subcutaneously at weekly and biweekly intervals. The primary endpoints were feasibility of producing vaccine in stage III patients and determining the proportion of patients alive at two years in stage IV patients.

Results

GM-CSF vaccine was successfully developed and administered in all 61 patients. Toxicities were restricted to grade 1-2 local skin reactions. The median OS for stage III patients (n = 20) was 71.1 (95% CI, 43.7 to NR) months and 14.9 (95%CI, 12.1 to 39.7) months for stage IV patients. The median PFS in stage III patients was 50.7 (95%CI, 36.3 to NR) months and 4.1 (95% CI, 3.0-6.3) months in stage IV patients. In the overall population, the disease control rate was 39.3% (95%CI, 27.1 to 52.7%). In stage III patients, higher pre-treatment plasma cytokine levels of MMP-1, TRAIL, CXCL-11, CXCL-13 were associated with improved PFS (p<0.05 for all). An increase in post-vaccination levels of IL-15 and TRAIL for stage III patients was associated with improved PFS (p=0.03 for both). Similarly, an increase in post-vaccination IL-16 level for stage IV patients was associated with improved PFS (p=0.02) and clinical benefit.

Conclusions

Vaccination with autologous melanoma cells secreting GM-CSF augments antitumor immunity in stage III and IV patients with melanoma, is safe, and demonstrates disease control. Luminex data suggests that changes in inflammatory cytokines and immune cell infiltration promote tumor antigen presentation and subsequent tumor cell destruction. Additional investigation to administer this vaccine in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors is needed.
Construction of diagnostic models for the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma using machine learning
Authors: Jiang Xin , Zhou Ruilong , Jiang Fengle , Yan Yanan , Zhang Zheting , Wang Jianmin
Published: May 2024

Liver cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer worldwide. A significant proportion of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to unfavorable treatment outcomes. Generally, the development of HCC occurs in distinct stages. However, the diagnostic and intervention markers for each stage remain unclear. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore precise grading methods for HCC. Machine learning has emerged as an effective technique for studying precise tumor diagnosis. In this research, we employed random forest and LightGBM machine learning algorithms for the first time to construct diagnostic models for HCC at various stages of progression. We categorized 118 samples from GSE114564 into three groups: normal liver, precancerous lesion (including chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, dysplastic nodule), and HCC (including early stage HCC and advanced HCC). The LightGBM model exhibited outstanding performance (accuracy = 0.96, precision = 0.96, recall = 0.96, F1-score = 0.95). Similarly, the random forest model also demonstrated good performance (accuracy = 0.83, precision = 0.83, recall = 0.83, F1-score = 0.83). When the progression of HCC was categorized into the most refined six stages: normal liver, chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, dysplastic nodule, early stage HCC, and advanced HCC, the diagnostic model still exhibited high efficacy. Among them, the LightGBM model exhibited good performance (accuracy = 0.71, precision = 0.71, recall = 0.71, F1-score = 0.72). Also, performance of the LightGBM model was superior to that of the random forest model. Overall, we have constructed a diagnostic model for the progression of HCC and identified potential diagnostic characteristic gene for the progression of HCC.
The mysterious association between adiponectin and endometriosis
Authors: Zhao Yong-Qing , Ren Yi-Fan , Li Bing-Bing , Wei Chao , Yu Bin
Published: May 2024

Adiponectin is a pleiotropic cytokine predominantly derived from adipose tissue. In addition to its role in regulating energy metabolism, adiponectin may also be related to estrogen-dependent diseases, and many studies have confirmed its involvement in mediating diverse biological processes, including apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis, all of which are related to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Although many researchers have reported low levels of adiponectin in patients with endometriosis and suggested that it may serve as a protective factor against the development of the disease. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to provide an up-to-date summary of the roles of adiponectin and its downstream cytokines and signaling pathways in the aforementioned biological processes. Further systematic studies on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of action of adiponectin may provide novel insights into the pathophysiology of endometriosis as well as potential therapeutic targets.
Facts and myths about use of esketamine for treatment-resistant depression: a narrative clinical review
Authors: Di Vincenzo Matteo , Martiadis Vassilis , Della Rocca Bianca , Arsenio Eleonora , D’Arpa Andrea , Volpicelli Antonio , Luciano Mario , Sampogna Gaia , Fiorillo Andrea
Published: May 2024

Introduction and aims

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) occurs when at least two different antidepressants, taken at the right dosage, for adequate period of time and with continuity, fail to give positive clinical effects. Esketamine, the S-enantiomer of ketamine, was recently approved for TRD treatment from U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Medicine Agency. Despite proved clinical efficacy, many misconceptions by clinicians and patients accompany this medication. We aimed to review the most common “false myths” regarding TRD and esketemine, counterarguing with evidence-based facts.

Methods

The keywords “esketamine”, “treatment resistance depression”, “depression”, “myth”, “mythology”, “pharmacological treatment”, and “misunderstanding” were entered in the main databases and combined through Boolean operators.

Results

Misconceptions regarding the TRD prevalence, clinical features and predictors have been found. With respect of esketamine, criteria to start treatment, dissociative symptoms, potential addiction and aspects of administration and monitoring, were found to be affected by false beliefs by clinicians and patients.

Discussion and conclusion

TRD represents a challenging condition, requiring precise diagnosis in order to achieve patient’s full recovery. Esketamine has been proved as an effective medication to treat TRD, although it requires precautions. Evidence can inform clinical practice, in order to offer this innovative treatment to all patients with TRD.
Educating the next generation of psychiatrists in the use of clinical neuromodulation therapies: what should all psychiatry residents know?
Authors: Menon Sahit N. , Torrico Tyler , Luber Bruce , Gindoff Brian , Cullins Lisa , Regenold William , Lisanby Sarah H.
Published: May 2024

A variety of neuromodulation treatments are available today and more are on the way, but are tomorrow’s psychiatrists prepared to incorporate these tools into their patients’ care plans? This article addresses the need for training in clinical neuromodulation for general psychiatry trainees. To ensure patient access to neuromodulation treatments, we believe that general psychiatrists should receive adequate education in a spectrum of neuromodulation modalities to identify potential candidates and integrate neuromodulation into their multidisciplinary care plans. We propose curricular development across the four FDA-cleared modalities currently available in psychiatric practice: electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). With a focus on psychiatry residency training, the article delineates core learning components for each neuromodulation technique. For each modality, we review the clinical training status, the respective FDA-cleared indications, mechanisms of action, clinical indications and contraindications, adverse effects, informed consent process, dosing considerations, and clinical management guidelines. The approach outlined in this article aims to contribute to the development of a well-rounded generation of psychiatry trainees with the capacity to navigate the growing field of neuromodulation. Whether or not a psychiatrist specializes in delivering neuromodulation therapies themselves, it is incumbent on all psychiatrists to be able to identify patients who should be referred to neuromodulation therapies, and to provide comprehensive patient care before, during and after clinical neuromodulation interventions to optimize outcomes and prevent relapse.
Population characteristics and self-assessment of speaking and singing voice in Polish contemporary commercial music singers—an exploratory, cross-sectional study
Authors: Morawska Joanna , Pietruszewska Wioletta , Politański Piotr , Niebudek-Bogusz Ewa
Published: May 2024

Background

The domination of the Contemporary Commercial Music (CCM) industry in music markets has led to a significant increase in the number of CCM performers. Performing in a wide variety of singing styles involves exposing CCM singers to specific risk factors potentially leading to voice problems. This, in turn, necessitates the consideration of this particular group of voice users in the Occupational Health framework. The aim of the present research was threefold. First, it sought to profile the group of Polish CCM singers. Second, it was designed to explore the prevalence of self-reported voice problems and voice quality in this population, in both speech and singing. Third, it aimed to explore the relationships between voice problems and lifetime singing involvement, occupational voice use, smoking, alcohol consumption, vocal training, and microphone use, as potential voice risk factors.

Materials and methods

The study was conducted in Poland from January 2020 to April 2023. An online survey included socio-demographic information, singing involvement characteristics, and singers’ voice self-assessment. The prevalence of voice problems was assessed by the Polish versions of the Vocal Tract Discomfort Scale (VTDS) and the Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI). Also, a self-reported dysphonia symptoms protocol was applied. The perceived overall voice quality was assessed by a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of 100 mm.

Results

412 singers, 310 women and 102 men, completed the survey. Nearly half of the studied population declared lifetime singing experience over 10 years with an average daily singing time of 1 or 2 h. 283 participants received vocal training. For 11.4% of respondents, singing was the primary income source, and 42% defined their career goals as voice-related. The median scores of the VTDS were 11.00 (0–44) and 12.00 (0–40) for the Frequency and Severity subscales, respectively. The median SVHI score of 33 (0–139) was significantly higher than the normative values determined in a systematic review and meta-analysis (2018). Strong positive correlations were observed between SVHI and both VTD subscales: Frequency (r = 0.632, p < 0.001) and Severity (r = 0.611, p < 0.001). The relationships between most of the other variables studied were weak or negligible.

Conclusion

The examined CCM singers exhibited substantial diversity with regard to musical genre preferences, aspirations pertaining to singing endeavors, career affiliations, and source of income. Singing voice assessment revealed a greater degree of voice problems in the examined cohort than so far reported in the literature, based on the SVH and VTDS.
Medical staff evaluation on ‘the effect of medical alliance policy on hierarchical diagnosis and treatment’
Authors: Zhao Zijun , Xie Xianyu , Wu Qinde
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Medical alliances are essential for constructing an hierarchical diagnosis and treatment (HDT) system; therefore, it is crucial to promote such alliances and evaluate their effectiveness in this regard from the medical staff perspective. This study thus investigated and analyzed the evaluations of medical staff in China concerning the effect of medical alliances on promoting HDT with the intention to encourage further establishment of medical alliances and HDT under China’s new medical reform.

Methods

A total of 616 medical staff personnel from 3 medical alliances in Fujian Province were surveyed, and data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0 software.

Results

The level of medical institutions, posts and satisfaction with their medical alliances influenced the evaluation of medical alliance effectiveness in resolving the problem of expensive medical services. Primary medical institutions are more inclined toward policy formulation and related work; thus, the interests of primary hospitals can be guaranteed. However, tertiary hospitals must provide additional workforce, material, and financial resources to support primary hospitals.

Discussion

Therefore, it is necessary to coordinate the interests of the medical staff at different levels of medical institutions. The study makes a significant contribution to the literature because it highlights the effect of medical alliances in promoting hierarchical diagnosis and treatment.
Experiences and challenges of pre-exposure prophylaxis initiation and retention among high-risk populations: qualitative insights among service providers in Thailand
Authors: Rayanakorn Ajaree , Chautrakarn Sineenart , Intawong Kannikar , Chariyalertsak Chonlisa , Khemngern Porntip , Olson Debra , Chariyalertsak Suwat
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been an essential element of the national combination prevention package and included in the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) of Thailand since 2019. As a part of the national monitoring and evaluation framework, this qualitative study aims to describe experiences and barriers concerning PrEP initiation and retention among service providers from both hospital and Key Population Led Health Service (KPLHS) settings under the country’s UHC roll-out.

Methods

Between September and October 2020, ten focus group discussions with PrEP service providers from both hospitals and KPLHS across Thailand were conducted of which there were six hospitals, one health service center, three KPLHS. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim to identify providers’ experiences, attitudes, and perceived barriers regarding PrEP service delivery in Thailand.

Results

Among the 35 PrEP service providers, most of them reported positive attitudes toward PrEP and believed that it is an effective tool for HIV prevention. Men who have sex with men were perceived to be the easiest group to reach while PrEP uptake remains a challenge in other key populations. Integration of a PrEP clinic with other HIV services at hospitals made most healthcare providers unable to adopt an active approach in recruiting new clients like at KPLHS settings. Challenges in delivering PrEP services included lack of public awareness, high workload, limited benefit package coverage, structural and human resources.

Conclusion

Additional services to address different health needs should be considered to increase PrEP uptake among harder-to-reach populations. Novel approaches to PrEP service integration and close collaboration between hospitals and KPLHS would be essential in optimizing PrEP uptake and retention. Support regarding raising awareness, expanding service coverage and access, improving facilities and workforce, and providers’ capacities are crucial for the success of the national PrEP programme.
Where exactly do the social and behavioural sciences fit in One Health?
Authors: Carter Lucy , Mankad Aditi , Okello Walter
Published: May 2024

At its core, One Health promotes multidisciplinary cooperation amongst researchers and practitioners to improve the effectiveness and management of complex problems raised by the interplay of human, animal and environment interactions. Contemporary One Health literature has identified reducing disciplinary barriers as key to progress in the field, along with addressing the notable absence of social sciences from One Health frameworks, among other priorities. Efforts to position social scientists as experts on behaviour change and health decision-making has helped to articulate a concrete role for progressing One Health collaborations. Yet, there are other equally valuable functions the social scientist has in understanding complex systems, like One Health. We make explicit the multiple and diverse knowledge contributions the social sciences and humanities can make to progressing the One Health agenda. Articulating these more clearly invites a broader set of interdisciplinary perspectives to One Health discussions, allowing for stronger connections between sectors, actors, disciplines, and sub-systems. This perspective piece identifies a range of entry points for researchers and practitioners to better utilize the potential contributions social sciences and humanities scholars can make to One Health goals.
Exploring security threats and solutions Techniques for Internet of Things (IoT): from vulnerabilities to vigilance
Authors: Sahu Swastik Kumar , Mazumdar Kaushik
Published: May 2024

The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices across various industries has revolutionized the way we interact with technology. However, this widespread adoption has also brought about significant security challenges that must be addressed to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of data transmitted and processed by IoT systems. This survey paper delves into the diverse array of security threats faced by IoT devices and networks, ranging from data breaches and unauthorized access to physical tampering and denial-of-service attacks. By examining the vulnerabilities inherent in IoT ecosystems, we highlight the importance of implementing robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information and ensure the reliable operation of connected devices. Furthermore, we explore cutting-edge technologies such as blockchain, edge computing, and machine learning as potential solutions to enhance the security posture of IoT deployments. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing security frameworks and best practices, this paper aims to provide valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to fortify the resilience of IoT systems in an increasingly interconnected world.
Embedding patient and public involvement into a doctoral study: developing a point-of-care HIV testing intervention for dental settings
Authors: Doughty J. , Preston J. , Paisi M. , Hudson A. , Burns F. , Porter S. R. , Watt R. G.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) can have a positive impact on research. PPI can make research more meaningful and appropriate as well as preventing research waste. For decades, patient advocates with HIV have played a key part in public health and research. This article presents the PPI activity undertaken during a doctoral study. The aim of this article is to demonstrate how PPI was embedded into a doctoral study that explored the feasibility of HIV testing in dental settings.

Methods

Patients and the public were invited to be involved with the feasibility study through various organisations and charities. A comprehensive PPI activity strategy was devised, and appropriate funding was obtained. Patients and the public were predominantly consulted or collaboratively involved with several aspects of the study.

Findings

Patients and the public positively contributed to the intervention development and the resources supporting its implementation. As a result, the study resources (i.e., questionnaire and information leaflets) were easier to read, and the intervention was more appropriate to the needs of patients. Furthermore, the training and focus groups conducted with dental patients and people with HIV benefitted from input of people with lived experience.

Conclusions

PPI can be embedded within doctoral studies provided there is sufficient funding, flexibility, and supervisory support. However, PPI activity may be impacted by limited resource and a priori research protocol and funding agreements.
From silicon to solutions: AI's impending impact on research and discovery
Authors: Markowitz David M. , Boyd Ryan L. , Blackburn Kate
Published: May 2024

The social sciences have long relied on comparative work as the foundation upon which we understand the complexities of human behavior and society. However, as we go deeper into the era of artificial intelligence (AI), it becomes imperative to move beyond mere comparison (e.g., how AI compares to humans across a range of tasks) to establish a visionary agenda for AI as collaborative partners in the pursuit of knowledge and scientific inquiry. This paper articulates an agenda that envisions AI models as the preeminent scientific collaborators. We advocate for the profound notion that our thinking should evolve to anticipate, and include, AI models as one of the most impactful tools in the social scientist's toolbox, offering assistance and collaboration with low-level tasks (e.g., analysis and interpretation of research findings) and high-level tasks (e.g., the discovery of new academic frontiers) alike. This transformation requires us to imagine AI's possible/probable roles in the research process. We defend the inevitable benefits of AI as knowledge generators and research collaborators—agents who facilitate the scientific journey, aiming to make complex human issues more tractable and comprehensible. We foresee AI tools acting as co-researchers, contributing to research proposals and driving breakthrough discoveries. Ethical considerations are paramount, encompassing democratizing access to AI tools, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, ensuring transparency, fairness, and privacy in AI-driven research, and addressing limitations and biases in large language models. Embracing AI as collaborative partners will revolutionize the landscape of social sciences, enabling innovative, inclusive, and ethically sound research practices.
Unveiling the truth: greenwashing in sustainable finance
Authors: Dempere Juan , Alamash Ebrahim , Mattos Paulo
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Greenwashing in sustainable finance involves misleading portrayals of investment products as environmentally friendly. This study explores the prevalence of greenwashing, its forms, impacts, and potential remedies. It underscores the need to align investor values with genuine environmental sustainability, emphasizing the pitfalls of greenwashing in sustainable finance.

Methods

The study employs a scoping review methodology guided by the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework. It involves systematically searching, selecting, and synthesizing evidence from various databases and sources to map critical concepts, types of evidence, and research gaps in greenwashing within sustainable finance.

Results

The study reveals diverse greenwashing strategies across industries, including ambiguous language, irrelevant claims, and opacity. It highlights greenwashing’s severe consequences on corporate reputation, financial performance, and stakeholder trust. The effectiveness of regulatory bodies, Non-Governmental Organizations, and certifications in curbing greenwashing is discussed, though their effectiveness is debatable. The research also examines greenwashing’s impact on investor behavior and decision-making.

Discussion

This research contributes to understanding greenwashing in sustainable finance, emphasizing vigilance, transparency, and accountability. It calls for more stringent regulations, international cooperation, and public awareness to combat greenwashing effectively. The study also suggests that businesses should adopt genuine and transparent environmental practices to avoid the risks of greenwashing, including legal repercussions. For future research, the study proposes a deeper exploration of the mechanisms enabling greenwashing and the effectiveness of different regulatory strategies and measures to combat it.