bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Right ventricular dilatation score: a new assessment to right ventricular dilatation in adult patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Zhou Ziqin , Huang Ying , Han Linjiang , Zhang Yong , Zhao Junfei , Wen Shusheng , Chen Jimei
Published: June 2023

Background: Patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF) experience long-term chronic pulmonary valve regurgitation resulting in right ventricular (RV) dilatation. According to current guidelines, the evaluation of patients with rTOF for RV dilatation should be based on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). However, for many asymptomatic patients, routine CMR is not practical. Our study aims to identify screening methods for CMR based on echocardiographic data, with the goal of establishing a more practical and cheap method of screening for severity of RV dilatation in patients with asymptomatic rTOF.
Methods: 32 rTOF patients (mean age, 21(10.5) y, 21 males) with moderate to severe pulmonary regurgitation (PR) were prospectively recruited. Each patient received CMR and echocardiogram examination within 1 month prior to operation and collected clinical data, and then received echocardiogram examination at discharge and 3-6 months post-surgery.
Results: RV moderate-severe dilatation was defined as right ventricular end-diastolic volume index (RVEDVI)≥160 ml/m2or right ventricular end-systolic volume index (RVESVI)≥80 ml/m2in 15 of 32 patients (RVEDVI, 202.15[171.51, 252.56] ml/m2, RVESVI, 111.99 [96.28, 171.74] ml/m2). The other 17 (RVESDI, 130.19 [117.91, 139.35] ml/m2, RVESVI= 67.91 [63.35, 73.11] ml/m2) were defined as right ventricle mild dilatation, i.e., RVEDVI<160ml/m2 and RVESVI<80 ml/m2, and the two parameters were higher than normal values. Compared with the RV mild dilatation group, patients of RV moderate-severe dilatation have worse cardiac function before surgery (right ventricular ejection fraction, 38.92(9.19) % versus 48.31(5.53) %, p<0.001; Left ventricular ejection fraction, 59.80(10.26) versus 66.41(4.15), p=0.021).Patients with RV moderate-severe dilatation faced longer operation time and more blood transfusion during operation (operation time, 271.53(08.33) min versus 170.53(72.36) min, p<0.01; Intraoperative blood transfusion, 200(175) ml versus 100(50) ml, p=0.001). Postoperative RV moderate-severe dilatation patients have poor short-term prognosis, which was reflected in a longer postoperative hospital stay (6.59 [2.12] days versus 9.80 [5.10] days, p=0.024) and a higher incidence of hypohepatia (0[0] % versus 4[26.7] %, p=0.023). Patients with RV dilatation score >2.35 were diagnosed with RV moderate-severe dilatation (AUC=0,882; Sensitivity =94.1%; Specificity =77.3%).
Conclusions: RV moderate-severe dilatation is associated with worse preoperative cardiac function and short-term prognosis after PVR in rTOF patients with moderate to severe PR. The RV dilatation score is an effective screening method. When RV dilatation score>2.35, the patient is indicated for further CMR examination and treatment.
Time-scaled phylogenetic analysis of extant Lamiinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) species of Marmara Basin, Turkey, and their evolutionary similarity with the Eurasian congeners
Authors: SOYDABAS-AYOUB HAVVA KÜBRA , Uçkan Fevzi
Published: June 2023

The subfamily Lamiinae (Cerambycidae, Coleoptera) is striking due to its morphological diversity and species richness with intricate phylogenetic relationships. We inferred the phylogeny and evolutionary history of extant species of East of Marmara Basin, Türkiye, from the tribes Acanthocinini, Acanthoderini, Agapanthiini, Batocerini, Dorcadionini, Lamiini, Mesosini, Monochamini, Phytoeciini, Phrynetini, Pogonocherini (including Exocentrini) and Saperdini using partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase-I (COI) and 16S rRNA and nuclear 28S rRNA gene regions (2257 base pair alignment length). The most recent common ancestor (MRCA) of Lamiinae members included in the analyses was dated ~ 127 million years ago (Mya) in the Cretaceous. The MRCA of Dorcadionini, Lamiini and Monochamini was younger than the common ancestors of the other close tribes. There was a concurrence between resolutions of Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Bayesian analyses on the affiliations of Dorcadionini and Monochamini to Lamiini and the proximity of Batocerini to Lamiini, Acanthocinini to Acanthoderini, Phrynetini to Pogonocherini, and Phytoeciini to Saperdini. The COI-based Neighbor-Joining and ML gene trees suggest that the closest relatives of the extant Lamiinae species of East of Marmara Basin were the European conspecifics or congeners. Moreover, Paraleprodera and Lamia (Lamiini) were sisters to Imantocera (Gnomini), Oberea (Obereini) to Phytoecia Phytoeciini), and Hippopsis (Agapanthiini) to Omosarotes singularis Pascoe,1860 (Acanthomerosternoplini). Our results support Dorcadionini, Gnomini and Monochamini as synonyms of Lamiini; and Obereini and Phytoeciini of Saperdini and suggest that the emergence of the living tribes included in this study was during Paleogene, and their intrageneric diversifications occurred during Cenozoic, mostly Neogene.
Study Protocol: A Randomized Multicenter Study on Clinical-efficacy Evaluation of Xiaoer Dingchuan Granule in Children with Respiratory Syncytial-virus Pneumonia
Authors: Li Ruixue , Wang Xuefeng , Zhang Xiuying , Wang Hui , Liu Jiayuan
Published: June 2023

Background
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) pneumonia is a major cause of hospitalization in children worldwide, seriously endangering child health. In recent years, many clinical studies have shown that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has unique advantages in the treatment of pediatric viral pneumonia. Therefore, it is particularly important to strengthen exploration of and research into the use of TCM to treat RSV pneumonia in children. The aims of this study will be to evaluate the clinical effect of Xiaoer Dingchuan Granule (XDG) on RSV pneumonia and to provide a scientific basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Methods and Design:
This study will be a single-blinded, parallel-controlled, multicenter randomized clinical trial (RCT) conducted in 10 Class III Grade A hospitals nationwide. We will recruit the study population from children aged 1–5 years who have been diagnosed with RSV pneumonia by Western medicine and with pneumonia and cough by TCM (phlegm-heat blocking lung syndrome) with a disease course within 48 h. The children’s parents or guardians will sign their informed consent. A total of 240 children will be recruited and divided into an experimental group and a control group. The control group will receive basic treatment, and the experimental group will receive XDG. Children will be treated for 7 days, and changes in their conditions will be evaluated daily and input to the medical-record observation form. We will follow-up on them at 10 and 90 days after discharge to observe their prognosis. After data collection, we will comprehensively evaluate the clinical efficacy of pediatric XDG as intervention into syncytial-virus pneumonia by its total effective rate, the curative-effect time window of pediatric pneumonia, the curative effect of TCM syndrome, changes in individual symptoms, changes in pulmonary signs, and the use of drug combinations.
Discussion
We speculate that treatment of RSV pneumonia in children with TCM can increase the overall clinical efficiency, alleviate disease severity, shorten hospital stays, reduce pain, and improve the children’s quality of life.
Trial Registration:
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry No. ChiCTR2200061471
An epidemiological survey of COVID-19 serology and its association with clinical infection among older adults – Does antibody titer matter?
Authors: Shapiro Dvorah Sara , Ellis Refael , Zidan Jowad , Wiener-Well Yonit , Bar-Meir Maskit , Ben-Chetrit Eli
Published: June 2023

Background: Older adults are at increased risk of severe COVID19 infection. In this study we assessed the response to COVID19 vaccination and infection rates among nursing homes (NH) and assisted-living care home (ALCH) residents.
Methods: The study was conducted between August 2021 and January 2022, after widespread population vaccination with the third dose of Pfizer-BioNtech mRNA COVID-19 vaccine in Israel. Three groups were addressed: hospitalized older patients; NH and ALCH residents. Demographic data, COVID19 serology (anti-spike IgG antibodies) and PCR test results were obtained to assess the dynamics of antibody titers and its correlation to infection rates.
Results: Two-hundred eighty-five individuals were evaluated; 92 hospitalized patients; 100 ALCH residents and 93 NH residents. In the latter two groups two serology surveys were conducted three months apart. Hospitalized patients were younger than ALCH and NH residents (mean age 80.4±8 versus 82.6±8 and 83.6±5, respectively, p=0.01), and had more comorbidities (p=0.003).
The degree of decline in the antibody level overtime was similar in ALCH and NH residents. Infection rates were higher among NH residents than ALCH residents [35/90 (39%) versus 11/100 (11%), p<0.001]. Antibody level was lower among those infected [2113 (1271-3512) Au/ml versus 4113 (3364-5029) Au/ml, p<0.001]. Adjusted analysis showed that NH residence, but not antibody levels, were significantly associated with infection.
Conclusion: Among older adults, infection rates inversely correlated with antibody level. However, only nursing home residence was significantly associated with infection, suggesting that other factors such as crowding considerably contribute to the risk of infection.
Effect of Phyllantus amarus leaf extract on the Kidneys of alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats
Authors: Adetoro Qudus Adebayo , Oluwo Oluwaseun , Obadina Tosin Oluwatoyin , Ojeniyi Afusat Omobola
Published: June 2023

Background:
Some plants are toxic, but not all plants or compounds are equally toxic to all parts of a living system. This is because many chemicals' harmful effects only appear in specific organs, which are their intended targets for toxicity. The study aims to evaluate how an ethanolic leaf extract of Phyllantus amarus affects the kidneys of alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats.
Methods:
A total of 25 albino rats of either sex weighing 86–150 g were assembled and divided into five groups (control, 1, 2, 3, and 4) of five rats each. The control group received no treatment and no induction with diabetes; group 1 received P. amarus treatment without induction; group 2 received P. amarus treatment and was induced with diabetes on the eighth day of treatment; and groups 3 and 4 were induced with diabetes and received P. amarus treatment. For 21 days, rats in groups 1, 2, and 3 received 300 mg/kg body weight of P. amarus leaf extract orally, while group 4 received 500 mg/kg body weight of the extract, and the control group received only water. For biochemical parameters, blood samples were collected in plain containers. Standard methods were used to measure urea, creatinine, albumin, and protein levels.
Results:
When compared to the control, there was a significant increase in the mean urea level in the groups that received 300 mg/kg body weight of P. amarus (4.170 ± 23 vs 5.770 ± 55, 6.000 ± 12, and 5.900 ± 60; P > 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in creatinine, albumin, or protein levels in alloxan-induced rats compared to the control group for any of the groups. Again, there was no significant increase in the mean weight of the rats after the administration of P. amarus.
Conclusions:
Therefore, caution should be exercised when consuming P. amarus because prolonged use may result in changes in urea concentration.
Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy combined with non-Doppler hemorrhoidal artery ligation for the treatment of grade III/IV hemorrhoids: A single centre retrospective study
Authors: Long Qing , Wen Yong , Li Jun
Published: June 2023

Background
Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy (MMH) is the most widely used surgical procedure because of its precise curative effect, but it has the disadvantages such as obvious postoperative pain and bleeding. To retrospectively compare the efficacy and safety of Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy combined with non-Doppler hemorrhoidal artery ligation (MMH + ND-HAL) for the treatment of grade III/IV hemorrhoids.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 115 patients with grade III/IV hemorrhoids, 53 patients had received MMH + ND-HAL, and the remaining 62 patients received MMH. We collected and compared demographic and clinical characteristics of both groups, including intraoperative blood loss, postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, analgesic consumption, postoperative bleeding, perianal incision edema, urinary retention, anal stenosis, anal incontinence incidence, recurrence rate (prolapse or bleeding), and patient satisfaction.
Results
The VAS pain score of the first postoperative defecation and at the postoperative 12 hours, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, and 7 days, as well as the total analgesic consumption within 7 days, for the MMH + ND-HAL group were lower than those for the MMH group (P < 0.05). The intraoperative blood loss, the incidence of postoperative bleeding, perianal incision edema, and urinary retention in the MMH + ND-HAL group was lower than that in the MMH group (P < 0.05). No anal stenosis or anal incontinence occurred in either group. At follow-up by telephone or outpatient 12 months after surgery, the recurrence rate (prolapse or bleeding) was lower in the MMH + ND-HAL group than in the MMH group (P < 0.05), and satisfaction was higher than in the MMH group than in the MMH + ND-HAL group (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
MMH + ND-HAL was a satisfactory surgical modality for treating III/IV hemorrhoids.
Bidirectional Associations between Parental Responsiveness and Children’s Internalizing and Moderation by Negative Emotionality
Authors: Thompson Amanda , Tully Erin , Henrich Christopher
Published: June 2023

Objective:
Positive parenting behaviors and children’s internalizing problems are bidirectionally associated during late childhood and early adolescence. These bidirectional associations likely emerge earlier and may be stronger when the child is prone to reactive negative emotions, making parents’ support especially critical in children’s regulation of negative emotions. The purpose of this study was to test (a) bidirectional associations between parents’ positive responses to children’s behaviors and children’s internalizing problems from very early to middle childhood, and (b) the moderating role of children’s negative emotionality in these bidirectional associations (N = 4,898).
Results:
Child-driven associations between internalizing problems and later responsive parenting were negatively associated from 3 to 5 years old and not associated from 5 to 9 years old. Parent-driven associations of responsivity at 3 and 5 years old were negatively associated with later internalizing problems at ages 5 and 9 years old respectively. Negative emotionality only moderated the parent-driven association between responsivity at 3 years old and internalizing problems at 5 years old, with higher responsivity being negatively associated with internalizing problems for children having more negative emotionality.
Conclusions:
Parents’ responsivity to child behavior in early and middle childhood tends to be associated with fewer internalizing problems. Parents’ positive response to very young children’s behaviors may be especially beneficial for children with higher negative emotionality. These results also support those very young children experiencing internalizing problems may be more likely to receive less responsive parenting later, regardless of children’s negative emotionality.
The YTHDF3-DT/miR-301a-3p /INHBA axis attenuates autophagy-dependent ferroptosis in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Peng Xiong , Yang Rui , Peng WeiLin , Zhao ZhenYu , Tu GuangXu , Shi Shuai , Yin Wei , Cai QiDong , He Boxue , Yu Fenglei , Wang Xiang , Tao Yongguang
Published: June 2023

Extensive studies have shown that many tumors develop resistance to conventional cancer agents targeting molecules in apoptosis and necrosis. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying crosstalk between autophagy and ferroptosis is an exciting field that provides great potential for facilitating therapeutic development to overcome the developed apoptotic and necrotic resistance in hard-to-treat cancers. Here, we reported that the YTHDF3-DT/miR-301a-3p/Inhibin βA (INHBA) axis induces autophagy-dependent ferroptosis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The long non-coding RNA YTHDF3-DT, of which the level is significant in the overall survival of LUAD patients, increases the stability of INHBA mRNA by acting as an endogenous sponge of miR-301a-3p. Then, the upregulated INHBA activates Activin A to inhibit PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway-involved autophagy, enhancing RSL3-mediated GPX4 to decrease ferroptosis. This YTHDF3-DT/miRNA-301-3p/INHBA axis regulates cancer biological capabilities through its mediated autophagy-dependent ferroptosis in vitro and in vivo. Our data contribute toward a significant mechanistic understanding of the molecules involved in the crosstalk between ferroptosis and autophagy, providing potential therapeutic targets to complement the existing therapies for overcoming the developed resistance in patients with LUAD.
Host name-liking and subjective well-being of international students in western society: Self-esteem as a mediator
Authors: Pan Qiran , Hu Ting , Wang Yajing , Ren Xiaopeng
Published: June 2023

Studies have indicated that original name-liking is a predictor of self-esteem and subjective well-being. However, it has been customary for Chinese international students to adopt host names, that is, English names, as a part of their East-West cultural transition. Using a sample of 218 Chinese international students in the UK, this study explored whether host name-liking followed a similar psychological mechanism to original name-liking and predicted subjective well-being, particularly via self-esteem. The findings indicated that, similar to original name-liking, host name-liking was positively associated with self-esteem and subjective well-being, and self-esteem played a mediating role in the association between host name-liking and subjective well-being. The findings provided insight into the relationship between host name-liking and subjective well-being, as well as practical suggestions for minorities.
Involvement of a rice mutation GPGG1 in storage protein biogenesis in endosperm and its location in rice genome
Authors: Tian Huai-Dong , Li Ying , Guo Yanping , Qu Yajuan , Zhang Xiaoye , Zhao Xiaoxian , Chang Xinya , Tian Baohua , Wang Guangyuan , Yuan Xiangmei
Published: June 2023

In the wild type of rice endosperm cell, glutelins and prolamins are synthesized on the respective subdomains of rough endoplasmic-reticulum (ER) and intracellularly compartmentalized into the different storage protein bodies, respectively. Herein, we first report a rice mutation involved in the biogenesis of glutelins and prolamins. A novel mutant for storage proteins was isolated and characterized by the great generation of 57 kD glutelin precursors (proglutelins) and the lacking of 13 kD prolamins. The proteinous alteration was clarified to result from a monogenic mutation with the dosage effect on generation of proglutelins and 13 kD prolamins. This mutation is referred to as GPGG1. A novel ER, the saccular composite-ER, was shown to act in the synthesis of proglutelins and 14 kD prolamins in the mutant. In addition to the composite-ER, the mutant type Golgi, trans-Golgi network, endocytotic protein-storage-vacuole, multivesicular body and lytic vacuole were shown to occur and function in the transfer, exocytosis, endocytosis, delivery, deposition and degradation of storage proteins in the mutant. Moreover, the GPGG1 gene was mapped to a 63.8-kb region of chromosome 12, and a pentatricopeptide repeat-like gene was determined as its candidate gene. Our results reveals that the GPGG1 was involved in the storage protein synthesis and caused the remodeling of endomembrane system for storage protein compartmentation. The candidate gene presumably concerns translation of storage protein mRNAs in rice endosperm cells.
The relationship between physical activity and life satisfaction among Chinese university students: the mediating role of self-efficacy and resilience
Authors: Jia-xin Deng , Liu Yong-feng , Yu Wang , Rui Chen
Published: June 2023

Objective
To analyze how the physical activity influence life satisfaction of university students and the relationship between those factors. Additionally, this study aims to examine the mediating effects of self-efficacy and Resilience, and to offer recommendations for enhancing the life satisfaction, positive emotions, and behavioral patterns of university students.
Methodology:
This study used the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), the Self-Efficacy Scale (CGES), the Mental Toughness Scale (CD-RISC) and the Life Satisfaction Scale (CSLSS) to administer questionnaires to 353 university students from two universities in Chengdu, Sichuan Province. Using a random simple sampling method. The data were processed and analyzed using SPSS 22.0 and Excel software
Results
1) Physical activity was significantly and positively related to self-efficacy, Resilience and life satisfaction; self-efficacy was significantly and positively related to Resilience and life satisfaction; Resilience was significantly and positively related to life satisfaction. 2) Physical exercise had a positive predictive effect on life satisfaction (β = 0.2771; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.01905, 0.3637, p < 0.001); 3) Self-efficacy (β = 0.0368, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.0087, 0.0692, p < 0.001) and Resilience (β = 0.0137; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.0919, 0.01894, p < 0.001) mediated the relationship between physical activity and life satisfaction, respectively. Also the chain mediating effect of self-efficacy and Resilience between physical activity and life satisfaction reached significant levels (β = 0.0483, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.0279, 0.0745, p < 0.001).
Conclusion and outlook:
Active participation in physical activity not only improves the level of life satisfaction of college students, but also indirectly influences the level of life satisfaction of college students by enhancing their self-efficacy and Resilience, thus improving the level of life satisfaction of college students.
Clinical and Genomic Evaluations of a persistent fatal SARS-CoV-2 infection in a Goods syndrome patient: A case report
Authors: Tabarsi Payam , Maleki Ali , Abtahian Zahra , khabbaz Alieh , Fereydouni Zahra , Rezaie Jahangir , Tavakoli Mahsa , Sanati Parastoo Yektay , Salehi-Vaziri Mostafa
Published: June 2023

COVID-19 resulted from an infection by SARS-Cov-2 which is the main cause of ADRS in global population from 2019 on. It may contribute to higher rate of death among the patients with immunodeficiency based on recent reports. In addition, Good syndrome (GS) as a result of thymoma removal might cause in some long-lasting microbial infections. We described clinical aspects and viral mutations on a case of GS suffering from COVID-19. A 46-year-old man with fever, general respiratory signs and positive COVID-19 PCR test, with the history of thymoma removal surgery was admitted to Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Lung radiographs and Oxygen saturation measurement disclosed considerable implication resulted in application of several anti-microbial medication. The delta variant (B.1.617.2 (21J Clade)) was the strain isolated from the patient by sequencing methods done by CNRL while the dominant strain circulated mostly among population was Omicron (B.1.1.529) at the time of sampling. Unfortunately, the patient had passed away a month later by sudden respiratory failure progressed in refractory septic shock. Despite the fact that opportunistic infections may lead the GS patients to a major health problematic condition, unusual persistent of infections such as non-dominant variant of SARS-Cov-2 could be observed through the disease timeline. Therefore, a fully screening of thymoma plus intra-host evolution monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 is highly recommended in immunocompromised patients.
Factors influencing shared decision-making within long-term care facilities: A person-centered nursing framework
Authors: Kim Da Eun , Kim Min Jung
Published: June 2023

Background
Shared decision-making, a communicative process to reach decisions based on informed preferences, evidence, and co-created goals, improves care satisfaction and patients’ quality of life. However, shared decision-making has not been widely implemented in long-term care facilities, and few studies have examined how to promote the shared decision-making practice. This study aimed to identify the influencing factors of shared decision-making based on the person-centered nursing framework in long-term care facilities.
Methods
A total of 300 staff (nursing staff, social workers, and personal care workers) in 13 Korean long-term care facilities were participated in this study. Data from 280 respondents were finally analyzed, excluding the respondents with missing values. Data were collected using structured questionnaires that included items on shared decision-making, personal factors (e.g., knowledge about dementia, person-centered attitude, and communication behavior), care environmental factors (e.g., person-centered climate, staffing level, effective staff relationship, supportive supervisor, and power-sharing) of the facilities. Multilevel linear regression analyses were performed using Mplus Version 8.8.
Results
The mean shared decision-making score was 35.78 (range 8–45). Staff with at least one person-centered education (β = 0.198, p = 0.034), higher person-centered attitude score (β = 0.201, p = 0.007) and higher communication behavior score (β = 0.242, p < 0.001) were more likely to report a higher shared decision-making score. In addition, staff who recognize their care environment is more person-centeredness were more likely to report a higher shared decision-making score (β = 0.416, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
This study highlights that general (e.g., person-centered education), personal (e.g., person-centered attitude, and communication behavior) and care environmental (e.g., person-centered climate) factors could influence shared decision-making for long-term care residents. These findings could be foundational evidence for facilitating shared decision-making practice in long-term care settings.
MicroRNA-125a-5p regulates the effect of Tregs to Th1/Th17 through targeting ETS-1/STAT3 in psoriasis
Authors: Yan Kexiang , Zhang Fuxin , Ren Jie , Huang Qiong , Yawalkar Nikhil , Han Ling
Published: June 2023

Background
Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease mediated by helper T (Th)17 and Th1 cells. MicroRNA-125a (miR-125a) is reduced in the lesional skin of psoriatic patients. However, the mechanism by which miR-125a participates in psoriasis remains unclear.
Methods
The levels of miR-125a-5p and its downstream targets (ETS-1, IFN-γ, and STAT3) were detected in CD4+ T cells by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). In vitro, transfection of miR-125a-5p mimics was used to analyze the effect of miR-125a-5p on the differentiation of Th1 and Th17 by flow cytometric. Imiquimod (IMQ)-induced mouse model was used to evaluate the role of upregulating miR-125a-5p by intradermal injection of agomir-125a-5p in vivo.
Results
miR-125a-5p was downregulated in peripheral blood CD4+ T cells of psoriatic patients, which was positively associated with the proportion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and negatively correlated with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score. Moreover, the miR-125a-5p mimics promoted the differentiation of Tregs and downregulated the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of ETS-1, IFN-γ, and STAT3 in CD4+ T cells. Furthermore, agomir-125a-5p alleviated psoriasis-like inflammation in an IMQ-induced mouse model by downregulating the proportion of Th17 cells.
Conclusions
miR-125a-5p may have therapeutic potential in psoriasis by restoring the suppressive function of Tregs to Th1/Th17 cells through targeting ETS-1, IFN-γ, and STAT3.
Bortezomib induced Henoch-Schönlein purpura during a succesful treatment of multiple myeloma (case report)
Authors: Miličević Luka , Matošević Matija , Ivandić Ema , Prlić Margareta Fištrek , Živko Marijana , Bašić-Kinda Sandra , Batinić Josip , Bradamante Mirna , Bulimbašić Stela , Jelaković Bojan , Brinar Ivana Vuković
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND. Bortezomib is a well-known frontline therapy for newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM). There have been several case reports about skin vasculitis as a rare side effect of this medicine and one case report about intestinal vasculitis. We are now demonstrating 1st case of a vasculitis affecting skin, intestine and kidney in a single patient.
CASE PRESENTATION. Our patient is a 77-year-old woman with MM treated with bortezomib, melphalan and prednisone. She developed leukocytoclastic vasculitis of legs, bloody diarrhea and nephrotic proteinuria. Since the hematological response had been achieved, her condition was understood as a side effect of bortezomib and was completely resolved by discontinuation of the drug and administration of corticosteroids.
CONCLUSIONS. These three simultaneous signs suggest a common pathophysiology of the vasculitis manifesting on skin, intestine and kidney also known as Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) and to the best our knowledge is 1st report of this combination of side effects of bortezomib therapy. Clinicians should be aware of this rare, yet possible side effect when treating patients with bortezomib so they could timely recognise it and treat it.
Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Acute Myeloid Leukemia with Hyperdiploid Complex Karyotype
Authors: Poiré Xavier , Labopin Myriam , Polge Emmanuelle , Ganser Arnold , Socie Gerard , Gedde-Dahl Tobias , Forcade Edouard , Finke Jürgen , Chalandon Yves , BULABOIS Claude-Eric , Yakoub-Agha Ibrahim , Aljurf Mahmoud D , Kroeger Nicolaus , Blau Igor-Wolfgang , Nagler Arnon , Esteve Jordi , Mohty Mohamad
Published: June 2023

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) remains the best consolidation strategy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with complex karyotype (CK). However, CK is a heterogenous and highly diverse entity. Numerical abnormalities have been associated with a controversial prognosis and AML with only multiple numerical abnormalities known as pure hyperdiploid karyotype (HDK) may have a distinct prognosis after allo-HCT compared to non-pure HDK CK AML.
A total of 236 patients were identified within the EBMT registry as having HDK comprising 95 pure (pHDK) and 141 with other cytogenetic abnormalities (HDK+). The 2-year probability of leukemia-free survival (LFS) was 50% for pHDK and 31% for HDK+ (p=0.003). The 2-year probability of overall survival (OS) was 57% for pHDK and 36% for HDK+ (p=0.007). The 2-year cumulative incidence of relapse (RI) was 22% for pHDK and 44% for HDK+ (p=0.001). The 2-year probability of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD)-free and relapse-free survival (GRFS) was 36% for pHDK and 21% for HDK+ (p=0.01). On multivariate analysis, pHDK remained associated with significantly better LFS, OS and GRFS and lower RI (all p-values<0.004).
pHDK AML constitutes probably a distinct cytogenetic entity from HDK+ or other non-hyperdiploid CK AML with better outcomes after allo-HCT.
In vitro spontaneous MET-EMT model confers distinct cancer phenotypes and provides clues for differential epigenetic regulation.
Authors: SAHİN Zeynep Aleyna , MEMISOGLU ASLI SADE
Published: June 2023

Background
Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity is known to be involved in cancer metasis and chemotherapy resistance. However, molecular mechanisms of transitions between these cellular states is not well understood and good representative models that mimic natural transitions are still needed. In this study, spontaneously differentiating colon cancer cell line, HT-29, was used to develop an MET-EMT model.
Methods and results
Cells were first characterized according to their protein levels of epithelial and mesenchymal markers, so that the accuracy of the model has been proven. In order to elucidate the plastic nature of EMT, changes in the amounts of Polycomb group proteins were analyzed. Further characterization is achieved by comparing drug resistance, proliferation and colony formation ability. It was found that the amount of CBX-7 increased in epithelial cells, the amount of EZH1, EZH2 and CBX-8 increased in mesenchymal cells compared to epithelial cells. In addition, it was determined that epithelial cells were more sensitive to oxaliplatin and 5-FU, their division rate was lower than mesenchymal cells, and their ability to form spheroids was also lower.
Conclusion
This study provides a useful model for the study of epithelial mesenchymal plasticity in which the same cell line is used for reversible transitions whithout any chemical induction.
The Role of Osteoporosis in Non-Metastatic [18F]PSMA-1007 Bone Uptake — Finding the Missing Piece of the Puzzle
Authors: Ninatti Gaia , Pini Cristiano , Gelardi Fabrizia , Ghezzo Samuele , Mapelli Paola , Picchio Maria , Antunovic Lidija , Briganti Alberto , Montorsi Francesco , Landoni Claudio , Sollini Martina , Chiti Arturo
Published: June 2023

Aim
We investigated the association between surrogate markers of osteoporosis and the occurrence of non-metastatic [18F]PSMA-1007 bone uptake.
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively analysed treatment-naïve patients with a confirmed diagnosis of prostate adenocarcinoma who underwent staging [18F]PSMA-1007 Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and blood count within 3 months. Qualitative image analysis was performed independently by three experienced nuclear medicine physicians. Patients were divided in two groups according to the presence/absence of non-metastatic bone uptake. Clinical information, blood count parameters, Body Mass Index (BMI) and bone density as estimated by Computed Tomography were collected. The Kruskal-Wallis and t-test were used to compare parameters.
Results
We analysed 77 patients: 29 of them had non-metastatic bone uptake at [18F]PSMA-1007 PET, most commonly in the pelvic bones (69%) and ribs (62%). Clinical parameters did not differ in the two groups. In patients with non-metastatic bone uptake, white blood cell and neutrophil counts were significantly higher; in the same group, we observed lower values of BMI and bone density, although not statistically different.
Conclusions
We observed non-metastatic bone uptake on [18F]PSMA-1007 PET in more than 1/3 of patients. We found a significant correlation between blood count parameters and non-metastatic [18F]PSMA-1007 bone uptake. Given the prevalence of the finding and the molecular alterations induced by osteoclastogenic processes, we may speculate that [18F]PSMA-1007 non-metastatic bone uptake could be secondary to underlying osteoporosis. This hypothesis needs to be further investigated in larger populations and exploring more specific markers of osteoporosis.
m1A Regulatory Gene signatures are associated with certain immune cell compositions of the tumor microenvironment and predict survival in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Linjun , Zhou Weidong , Li Yuan , Hua Ruifang
Published: June 2023

Adenosine N1 methylation (m1A) of RNA, a type of post-transcriptional modification, has been shown to play a significant role in the progression of cancer. The objective of the current research was to analyze the genetic alteration and prognostic significance of m1A regulators in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC). Genomic and clinicopathological characteristics were obtained from 558 KIRC patients in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Omnibus Expression (GEO) databases. Alterations in the gene expression of ten m1A-regulators were analyzed and survival analysis was performed using the Cox regression method. We also identified three clusters of patients based on their distinct m1A alteration patterns, using integrated analysis of the ten m1A-related regulators, which were significantly related to overall survival (OS), disease free survival (DFS) and tumor microenvironment (TME) immune cell infiltration cells in KIRC. Our findings showed that m1A alteration patterns have critical roles in determining TME complexity and its immune cell composition. Furthermore, different m1A expression patterns were significantly associated with DFS and OS rates in KIRC patients. In conclusion, the identified m1A RNA modification patterns offer a potentially effective way to classify KIRC patients based on their TME immune cell infiltration, enabling the development of more personalized and successful treatment strategies for these patients.
Effects of waiting time for specialized interdisciplinary rehabilitation on adult patients with persistent symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Déry Julien , Potvin Isabelle , de Guise Elaine , Lamontagne Marie-Eve
Published: June 2023

Background
Twenty to thirty percent of patients with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) suffer persistent symptoms which can negatively impact their day-to-day activities. The primary aim of this study was to examine the relationship between waiting time for rehabilitation services and persistent symptoms in patients with mTBI. Its secondary objective was to explore the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and persistent symptom outcomes.
Methods
An observational cohort study was conducted at a specialized interdisciplinary rehabilitation program (SIRP) for mTBI in Québec, Canada. Waiting time was the predictor variable and outcomes were measured at two points in time.
Results
Twenty-six participants completed questionnaires at both baseline and follow-up. Approximately 70% of participants received their first appointment within six months of the injury, while the others waited more than eight months. Longer waiting times were associated with more persistent post-concussion symptoms (p = 0.008), more anxiety (p = 0.005), and poorer community integration (p = 0.006) at baseline, and higher anxiety levels (p = 0.046) at follow-up.
Conclusions
This study shows the negative effects of delayed access to specialized rehabilitation services for patients with mTBI. It highlights the need for timely access to improve outcomes and calls for policy changes to ensure it. Further research is needed to better understand the impact of waiting on mTBI symptoms.
Evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of UAS in the treatment of upper urinary tract stones with flexible ureteroscopy lithotripsy: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Guo Wei , Li Zeyan , Yan Keqiang , Fang Zhiqing , Fan Yidong
Published: June 2023

Objective To investigate the effectiveness and safety of ureteral access sheaths (UAS) in flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy of upper urinary tract stones through a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.Methods We conducted a meta-analysis and systematic review of the UAS in flexible ureteroscopy lithotripsy on April 12, 2023 (PROSPERO ID : CRD42022368459). The main outcomes of the meta-analysis included stone-free rate (SFR), intra and post-operation complications, hospitalization duration, and operation time.Results Twenty-one studies with 11335 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. The results showed that compared with the UAS group, the non-UAS group had a higher stone-free rate(SFR) (OR = 0.76, 95%CI 0.60–0.95, P = 0.01) and shorter operation time(MD = 11.21, 95% CI 5.66–16.76, P < 0.00001), but no significant difference in postoperative complications(OR = 1.20, 95% CI 0.79–1.82, P = 0.38), intraoperative complications(OR = 1.20, 95%CI 0.85–1.70, P = 0.57), and hospitalization duration (MD = -0.03, 95%CI -0.30-0.24, P = 0.84).Conclusion Our findings indicate that UAS usage results in unfavorable surgical outcomes with no benefit in preventing surgical complications. Therefore, we recommend re-evaluating the usage of UAS as a surgical aid in patients with large stones.
Adjustment Characteristics in COVID-19 Crisis: A Case of Thai Undergraduate Students
Authors: Phimsri Chanita , Srisawa Niwat
Published: June 2023

Background
The outbreak of the COVID-19 crisis has forced humans to adapt to changes in many areas. Thus, adjustment characteristics in the COVID-19 crisis differ from adjustment characteristics in normal situations. This study aimed to study the adjustment characteristics in the COVID-19 crisis of undergraduate students and to develop adjustment characteristics the in COVID-19 crisis of undergraduate student scale.
Methods
Mixed-method research was used. In qualitative research, researchers reviewed literature about the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis and the characteristics of well adjustment to develop definitions of adjustment characteristics in the COVID-19 crisis of undergraduate students. Next, the definitions were considered appropriate by psychological professionals. In quantitative research, the definitions of adjustment characteristics in COVID-19 crisis of undergraduate students were used to develop items for the questionnaire. They analyzed the component of adjustment characteristics by confirmatory factor analysis. Then, developed adjustment characteristics in the COVID-19 crisis of undergraduate student scale, and analyzed test quality by Item Response Theory.
Results
A qualitative study shows that there were four main impacts of the COVID-19 crisis included academic impact, emotional impact, social impact, and technological impact. According to the impacts of the COVID-19, adjustment characteristics in the COVID-19 crisis of undergraduate students consist of four dimensions: academic adjustment, emotional adjustment, social adjustment, and technological adjustment. Psychological professionals agreed. In quantitative studies, A confirmatory factor analysis of the factor structure indicated that the model fit and adjustment characteristics in the COVID-19 crisis of undergraduate student scale include four subscales, and 35 quality items.
Conclusions
Adjustment characteristics in the COVID-19 crisis of undergraduate students consist of four components: academic adjustment, emotional adjustment, social adjustment, and technological adjustment.
Association between health literacy and satisfaction with health care among parents of long-term ill children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Selezneva Ekaterina , Hallström Inger Kristensson , Vilhjalmsson Runar
Published: June 2023

Background: Inadequate health literacy has been shown to impact patient satisfaction with health care, a frequently used measure of health care quality. Low parental satisfaction with paediatric care can lead to lower compliance with prescribed medication and treatment and thus worsen the child's health outcomes. This study explored the relationship between the health literacy of parents of long-term ill children and parents’ satisfaction with the health care, and whether this relationship varied by the introduction of an eHealth device.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was based on the data collected in a larger clinical study from questionnaires filled out by 77 parents of chronically ill children admitted to neonatal and specialized surgery departments in southern Sweden between August 2019 and June 2020.
Statistical analysis was performed using Mann Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric tests, Spearman's rank correlation and multivariate logistic regression.
Results: A substantial and statistically significant correlation was observed between parental health literacy and almost all dimensions of parental satisfaction, with the highest correlation between health literacy and satisfaction with information (r=0.476, p<0.001). Health literacy was a significant independent predictor of high satisfaction with information and technical skills, and high overall satisfaction. An eHealth communication device moderated the relationship between health literacy and satisfaction with communication.
Conclusion: The study indicates that health literacy is among important predictors of parents’ satisfaction with health care. Health services should be sensitive to variations in parental health literacy and should tailor information and communication to parental needs to secure the best health outcomes for chronically sick children. Further studies are needed to evaluate the clinical benefits of assessing parental health literacy for child health outcomes.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04150120.
Patients' perceptions and performance of informing relatives: A qualitative study within a trial on healthcare-assisted risk disclosure (DIRECT)
Authors: von Salomé Jenny , Nääs Charlotta , Rosén Anna
Published: June 2023

Current clinical practice encourages patients with hereditary cancer to inform their at-risk relatives (ARR). A Swedish multicentre randomised controlled trial - DIRECT- evaluates whether direct letters from healthcare to ARR (intervention) affects the proportion being reached compared with patient-mediated disclosure only (control). We conducted 17 semi-structured interviews on how DIRECT participants perceived and performed risk communication with ARR. Using reflexive thematic analysis, we found that participation in DIRECT played a minor role in the patients’ experience of genetic counselling and risk disclosure. No integrity-related issues were reported by patients offered disclosure support, and most accepted letters to all ARR. Risk communication was perceived as important and both groups disclosed to all close relatives themselves. However, patients’ views on their duty to inform distant relatives was unpredictable, and a variety of approaches were used, including contacting all ARR, engaging the family, vaguely relying on others to inform, and not disclosing at all. Most patients limited their responsibility to the disclosure, although others wanted relatives to get tested or provided them with continuous information before ending their mission. We also identified some confusion about implication of test results, who needed information, and who was responsible for informing ARR. These misunderstandings possibly affected the risk communication. This study gives insight how direct letters interacts with family-mediated risk disclosure. The healthcare-assisted offer could be an option to convey information to more distant relatives, but the effectiveness of such intervention needs evaluation. Results from DIRECT will be available in 2025.
Improvements in orthostatic tolerance with physical training are augmented with heat acclimation; a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Parsons Iain , Snape Daniel , Stacey Michael J , Barlow Matthew , O’Hara John , Gall Nick , Chowienczyk Phil , Wainwright Barney , Woods David R
Published: June 2023

Introduction
Heat adaptation is protective against heat illness however its role in heat syncope, due to reflex mechanisms, has not been conclusively established. The aim of this study was to evaluate if heat acclimation (HA) was protective against heat syncope and to ascertain underlying physiological mechanisms.
Method
20 (15 males, 5 females) endurance trained cyclists were randomised to either 8 days of mixed active and passive HA (HEAT) or temperate exercise (CONTROL). Prior to, and following, the interventions participants underwent a head up tilt (HUT) with graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP) continued until presyncope with measurement of cardiovascular parameters. Heat stress testing was performed to determine physiological and perceptual measures of HA.
Results
There was a significant increase in orthostatic tolerance (OT), as measured by HUT/LBNP, in the HEAT group (pre-intervention; 28 ± 9 mins, post-intervention; 40 ± 7 mins) compared to CONTROL (pre-intervention; 30 ± 8 mins, post-intervention; 33 ± 5 mins) (p = 0.0116). Heat acclimation resulted in a significantly reduced peak and mean rectal and skin temperature (p < 0.0141), peak heat rate (p < 0.0033), thermal comfort (p < 0.0411) and rating of perceived exertion (p < 0.0251). There was a significantly increased plasma volume (PV) in the HEAT group in comparison to CONTROL (p = 0.0293).
Discussion
Heat adaptation causes improvements in OT and is likely to be beneficial in patients with heat exacerbated reflex syncope. Heat acclimation mediated PV expansion is the likely predominant physiological mechanism underlying improved OT.