bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angiotensin II for Vasodilatory Hypotension in Patients Requiring Mechanical Circulatory Support
Authors: Wieruszewski Patrick M. , Seelhammer Troy G. , Barreto Erin F. , Busse Laurence W. , Chow Jonathan H. , Davison Danielle L. , Gaglani Bhavita , Khanna Ashish K. , ten Lohuis Caitlin C. , Mara Kristin C. , Wittwer Erica D.
Published: December 2022

Background: Patients supported on mechanical circulatory support devices experience vasodilatory hypotension due to high surface area exposure to nonbiological and non-endothelialized surfaces. Angiotensin II has been studied in general settings of vasodilatory shock, however concerns exist regarding the use of this vasopressor in patients with pre-existing cardiac failure. The objective of this study was to assess the systemic and central hemodynamic effects of angiotensin II in patients with primary cardiac or respiratory failure requiring treatment with mechanical circulatory support devices. Methods: Multicenter retrospective observational study of adults supported on a mechanical circulatory support device who received angiotensin II for vasodilatory shock. The primary outcome was the intraindividual change from baseline in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and vasopressor dosage after angiotensin II. Results: Fifty patients were included with mechanical circulatory devices that were primarily used for cardiac failure (n = 41) or respiratory failure (n = 9). At angiotensin II initiation, the norepinephrine equivalent vasopressor dosage was 0.44 (0.34, 0.64) and 0.47 (0.33, 0.73) mcg/kg/min in the cardiac and respiratory groups, respectively. In the cardiac group, MAP increased from 60 to 70 mmHg (intraindividual P < .001) in the 1 h after angiotensin II initiation and the vasopressor dosage declined by 0.04 mcg/kg/min (intraindividual P < .001). By 12 h, the vasopressor dosage declined by 0.16 mcg/kg/min ( P = .001). There were no significant changes in cardiac index or mean pulmonary artery pressure throughout the 12 h following angiotensin II. In the respiratory group, similar but nonsignificant effects at 1 h on MAP (61-81 mmHg, P = .26) and vasopressor dosage (decline by 0.13 mcg/kg/min, P = .06) were observed. Conclusions: In patients requiring mechanical circulatory support for cardiac failure, angiotensin II produced beneficial systemic hemodynamic effects without negatively impacting cardiac function or pulmonary pressures. The systemic hemodynamic effects in those with respiratory failure were nonsignificant due to limited sample size.
The Joy of Sprawly Mess Unknowing: Volcanic Data Eruptions and Irruptions
Authors: Hogarth Hannah , Taylor Carol A. , Hewlett Sally , Cranham Joy , Barr Karen , Bastos Eliane , Barratt Hacking Elisabeth
Published: December 2022

This article uses the figuration of the volcano to demonstrate the disruptive and irruptive power of post-qualitative research. The article’s volcanic irruptions aim to keep data on the move, to show how data continually and slowly proliferate in rhizomatic, nomadic, and unforeseen ways via different, ongoing experimentations, instantiating the processual research practices of knowledge-ing. This article includes, and celebrates, empirical materials collectively produced as part of a collaborative research project entitled Get Up and Move!, which enacted posthumanist, feminist materialist research practices. We were curious about how we might activate the volcano to disrupt traditional modes of data collection, analysis, and dissemination rituals through research-creation events. By concept-ing with the volcano, through the creation of volcanic calligrams, we intra-act with data, as data erupt and irrupt in powerful, agentic, and surprising ways.
Evaluate the Prognosis of MYC/TP53 Comutation in Chinese Patients with EGFR-Positive Advanced NSCLC Using Next-Generation Sequencing: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Cao Jin , J Gu Juan , Liang Yichen , Wang Buhai
Published: December 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of MYC and TP53 comutations on the clinical efficacy of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in Chinese patients with advanced EGFR-positive nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients and methods: Tissue samples and information from 65 patients with advanced NSCLC in Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital were collected and analyzed by next-generation sequencing (NGS). Progression-free survival (PFS) and total survival (OS) were the main endpoints, and the objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were the secondary endpoints. Result: Among 65 patients, 17 had TP53 and MYC wild-type mutations ( WT/WT), 36 had TP53 mutant and MYC wild-type mutations ( TP53/WT), and 12 had coexisting MYC/TP53 mutations ( MYC/TP53). When 12 patients with MYC/TP53 comutation were compared with the other two groups ( TP53/WT, WT/WT), mPFS and mOS are significantly lower than those in the other two groups (mPFS: 4.1 months vs 6.0 months, 12.3 months, HR: 0.769, 95% CI: 4.592-7.608, P  =  .047. mOS: 14.6 months vs 24.1 months, 31.5 months, HR: 3.170, 95% CI: 18.786-31.214, P < .001), and the ORR, DCR of patients with MYC/TP53 comutation was lower than that of the other two groups (ORR, 25% vs 44.4%, 70.6%, P  =  .045. DCR, 58.3% vs 72.2%, 82.4%, P  =  .365). Conclusion: Patients with MYC/TP53 comutations with EGFR-positive advanced NSCLC are more likely to develop drug resistance after early treatment with EGFR-TKIs and have a worse clinical outcome.
Contested Infrastructures: Water, Privatization, and Place-Based Protest in Greater Buenos Aires
Authors: Akchurin Maria
Published: December 2022

Activists opposing urban water privatization often continue organizing even after water infrastructure returns to the public sector. Why? Analyzing water privatization and renationalization in Greater Buenos Aires, Argentina, I argue that as these policy changes unfolded, activists from neighborhoods lacking necessary infrastructure organized not only about privatization but also around place. Place-based mobilization emerged from a longstanding lack of services as well as environmental threats like flooding and pollution affecting residents’ daily lives. While privatization activated collective action, amplified by a broader economic crisis and protest cycle, it was organizing grounded in local environmental conditions and associational spaces that sustained it. The analysis, based on historical and interview data, reveals continuities and disjunctures between neoliberal and state-led modes of social provision, showing how place makes large-scale policy changes tangible and shapes patterns of collective action in a major South American metropolitan area.
Inverted Thoracic Stent Graft Technique for Separation of a Stent Graft and Bare Stent Caused by Aortic Elongation
Authors: Matsumoto Ryumon , Nishi Satoshi , Yoshimoto Akihiro , Suematsu Yoshihiro
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Component separation (CS) of the Zenith Dissection Endovascular Graft and Stent have been reported with some causes. However, CS caused by aortic elongation has not yet been reported. A long treatment range with the sacrifice of some intercostal arteries (ICAs) is sometimes needed when repairing CS because of the large difference in the diameter between the proximal and distal landing zones with a reverse taper.

Case presentation

A 78-year-old man, who underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) using a Zenith Dissection Graft and stents for acute type B aortic dissection 3 years and 8 months previously was admitted to our hospital with severe back pain. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) showed separation of the SG and bare stent, and aortic elongation. As there was a large difference in the diameter of the proximal and distal landing zones with a reverse taper, a long treatment range with the sacrifice of two large ICAs was needed. Thus, TEVAR using an inverted thoracic SG technique was performed in order to shorten the treatment range to preserve a large ICA and reduce the risk of paraplegia. Completion angiography showed that the separation was repaired with preservation of the large ICA. The postoperative course was uneventful, and he was discharged on postoperative day 10 with relief of his severe pain. At 1 year after secondary TEVAR, CT showed that the diameter of the descending aorta had decreased with no separation of the SGs.

Conclusion

Deployment of an inverted thoracic SG for the treatment of CS of the Zenith Dissection Endovascular Graft and Stent is a feasible and effective procedure to preserve ICAs. An overlapping range of >1.5 times the length of a bare stent within an SG is needed to prevent CS of the Zenith Dissection Endovascular Graft and Stent caused by aortic elongation.
Usefulness of cone-beam computed tomography to predict residual stenosis after carotid artery stenting
Authors: Roh Jieun , Baik Seung Kug , Yeom Jeong A , Park Kyung-Pil , Ahn Sung-Ho , Park Min-Gyu
Published: December 2022

Objectives

The long-term durability of carotid artery stenting (CAS) may be determined by various factors; however, residual stenosis is a known risk factor for in-stent restenosis. The authors of this article utilized cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in angiosuite to investigate plaque features affecting the character and quality of stent expansion after CAS.

Methods

Forty-two CAS cases with both pre- and post-CAS CBCT evaluations were included in this retrospective analysis. Five features derived from pre-CAS images were tested: (1) eccentricity, (2) overballoon, (3) maximum plaque thickness, (4) calcification barrier, and (5) stenotic degree. For post-CAS CBCT, stent configuration was assessed if the stent was expanded and oval or round in shape as well as outward or inward in orientation. Variables were tested if they were associated with oval expansion, outward expansion, and 20% residual stenosis after CAS.

Results

Oval or outward expansion is directly related to residual stenosis. The oval expansion was associated with maximum plaque thickness, and outward expansion was associated with the presence of a calcification barrier. Variables related to > 20% residual stenosis were the maximum plaque thickness, calcification barrier, and pre-CAS stenotic degree.

Conclusions

CBCT for carotid stenosis may provide valuable information about plaque features, especially calcification features that may interfere with the angioplasty effect, as well as the characteristics and quality of stent expansion. Residual stenosis > 20% was associated with calcification barrier, maximum plaque thickness, and pre-CAS stenotic degree.
The effect of diabetes mellitus on the outcome of surgery for cubital tunnel syndrome
Authors: Stirling Paul H. C. , Harrison Simon J. , McEachan Jane E.
Published: December 2022

The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of diabetes mellitus (DM) on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and satisfaction after surgery for cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS). Pre- and 1-year postoperative QuickDASH, normal hand, and satisfaction scores were prospectively collected from 107 patients over a 6-year period. Patients without DM reported a significant QuickDASH improvement after surgery (preoperative 34.1 versus postoperative 20.5; p < 0.001), but patients with DM did not (preoperative 46.5 versus postoperative 43.2; p = 0.554). Postoperative QuickDASH (43.2 versus 20.5) and normal hand (65 versus 80) scores were significantly worse in patients with DM. Satisfaction rates were excellent in both groups (88% versus 82%; p = 0.480). Our study showed that surgery for CuTS did not lead to an improvement in QuickDASH score in patients with DM and consequently patients with DM reported worse postoperative PROMs compared with those without. However, lack of improvement in PROMs does not affect patient satisfaction.

Level of evidence: IV
Psychometric Properties of the Suicidal Ideation Scale in the Indonesian Language
Authors: Fitriana Efi , Purba Fredrick Dermawan , Salsabila Safira Putri , Danasasmita Febrianti Santiardi , Afriandi Irvan , Tarigan Rodman , Ichsan Abdullah , Pandia Veranita
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Suicide is one of the leading cause of mortality among adolescents and young adults, especially in low to middle-income countries. Research found that screening for suicidal ideation in non-clinical populations such as schools or communities is an important step toward preventing suicide. Despite so, not all screening tools have the capabilities to accurately detect suicidal ideation among adolescents and young adults in non-clinical populations. The Suicidal Ideation Scale (SIS) is one of the most used questionnaires to measure suicidal thoughts in non-clinical populations. This study aims to investigate the psychometric properties of SIS among adolescents and young adults in Indonesia, especially in non-clinical populations.

Methods:

After a series of language and cultural adaptations, 1254 senior high school and university students completed the Indonesian version of SIS using 3 standard questionnaires, namely Patient Health Questionnaire-9/PHQ-9, Beck Depression Inventory-II/BDI-II, and Children’s Depression Inventory/CDI. The SIS content validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability and concurrent, as well as internal structure validity, were investigated using content validity index (CVI), Cronbach’s Alpha, Pearson product-moment correlation, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), respectively.

Results:

The result showed that SIS has good to excellent internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Based on the validity indicators, it has satisfactory content and convergent validity, and further support the one-factor and 2-factor model for factorial validity. Both one-factor and 2 factor model are suitable to use in non-clinical settings.

Conclusions:

SIS is a valid and reliable tool for suicide ideation screening in adolescents and young adults in non-clinical populations. This validated questionnaire can be used in the early detection of suicidal ideation among adolescents and young adults in non-clinical populations, thus contributing to developing strategies and policies to prevent suicide among Indonesian adolescents and young adults at group and institutional levels.
Can Critical Thinking Skills Be Transferred from the Accomplished Scientist to the Beginning Scientist?
Authors: Johnsen D.C. , Butali A.
Published: December 2022

We seldom apply rigorous methods to how scientists think as they make new discoveries and open new avenues of inquiry. The progress of science relies on one generation of scientists transferring their thought processes and methods to the next. In a culture of inquiry, respect, rigor, and role modeling, critical thinking can thrive as novices become accomplished scientists. Although scientists are typically judged on the basis of results (publication, symposium, etc.) rather than the thought process used to get that result, the thought process is of paramount importance for training the next generation of scientists. As a profession pays closer attention to the educational process whereby novices become accomplished scientists, a wider discussion of how accomplished scientists think is vital to help novice scientists positively advance through the early vulnerable years. Thinking critically about our goals and values—including the value of emulation, experience, biases, and doubt—is a necessary part of that process.
Where the Dewdrops Fall: Shalom International Ministry and the Cultivation of a Twenty-First-Century Missionary Movement
Authors: Aycock Jennifer L. , Mpoyo Gad
Published: December 2022

In our roles as lead pastor (Gad Mpoyo) and worshiping member/lay preacher (Jennifer L. Aycock), we have conducted a case study of Shalom International Ministry, a New Worshiping Community in the Presbyterian Church USA. The present and future religious vitality of the United States may be more clearly assessed through measures of participation, leadership, and ownership of congregational and community life by African immigrants and refugees aged twelve to twenty-seven. As African immigrant young adults’ spirituality and personal capacities are cultivated within the life of the church, it empowers them to contribute to American religious life in potentially transformative ways.
The DynAIRx Project Protocol: Artificial Intelligence for dynamic prescribing optimisation and care integration in multimorbidity
Authors: Walker Lauren E , Abuzour Aseel S , Bollegala Danushka , Clegg Andrew , Gabbay Mark , Griffiths Alan , Kullu Cecil , Leeming Gary , Mair Frances S , Maskell Simon , Relton Samuel , Ruddle Roy A , Shantsila Eduard , Sperrin Matthew , Van Staa Tjeerd , Woodall Alan , Buchan Iain
Published: December 2022

Background

Structured Medication Reviews (SMRs) are intended to help deliver the NHS Long Term Plan for medicines optimisation in people living with multiple long-term conditions and polypharmacy. It is challenging to gather the information needed for these reviews due to poor integration of health records across providers and there is little guidance on how to identify those patients most urgently requiring review.

Objective

To extract information from scattered clinical records on how health and medications change over time, apply interpretable artificial intelligence (AI) approaches to predict risks of poor outcomes and overlay this information on care records to inform SMRs. We will pilot this approach in primary care prescribing audit and feedback systems, and co-design future medicines optimisation decision support systems.

Design

DynAIRx will target potentially problematic polypharmacy in three key multimorbidity groups, namely, people with (a) mental and physical health problems, (b) four or more long-term conditions taking ten or more drugs and (c) older age and frailty. Structured clinical data will be drawn from integrated care records (general practice, hospital, and social care) covering an ∼11m population supplemented with Natural Language Processing (NLP) of unstructured clinical text. AI systems will be trained to identify patterns of conditions, medications, tests, and clinical contacts preceding adverse events in order to identify individuals who might benefit most from an SMR.

Discussion

By implementing and evaluating an AI-augmented visualisation of care records in an existing prescribing audit and feedback system we will create a learning system for medicines optimisation, co-designed throughout with end-users and patients.
Three-dimensional Analysis of Phenotypic Variation in Mercedes Benz Craniosynostosis
Authors: Harrison Lucas M. , Mathew Denzil P. , Hallac Rami R. , Derderian Christopher A.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Mercedes Benz craniosynostosis is a rare tri-sutural closure pattern of the bilateral lambdoid and sagittal sutures. Variation due to the predominant deformational driving force leads to short and long phenotypes. This study aims to evaluate the volumetric and craniometrics differences between phenotypes and compare them to controls.

Methods:

Three-dimensional pre-operative CT scans of 15 patients with Mercedes Benz craniosynostosis were retrospectively reviewed along with age and gender-matched controls. The intracranial volume of the anterior, middle, and posterior fossa was calculated. Craniometric measurements included cranial index, frontal bossing angle, occipital bossing angle, and occipital bone angle.

Results:

The short phenotype was present in 60% of patients, and the long phenotype in 40%. The short phenotype volume was significantly greater in the anterior and middle fossa ( P = .003; P = .002) and significantly less in the posterior fossa ( P < .001). The volumes were not significantly different in the long phenotype. The cranial index was significantly greater in the short phenotype when compared to both the long phenotype and controls ( P < .001; P = .006). Occipital bossing angle was significantly greater in the short phenotype than in controls( P = .029). The short phenotype had a significantly decreased occipital bone angle compared to the long phenotype and controls ( P < .001; P = .001).

Conclusion:

The short phenotype has increased anterior and middle fossa and decreased posterior fossa volume. Long phenotype had no significant differences in volume distribution. The short phenotype has increased cranial index, increased occipital bossing angle, and decreased occipital bone angle. Craniometric measures were not significantly different in the long phenotype.
Human iPSC-derived neural stem cells with ALDH5A1 mutation as a model of succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Chen Xiaodan , Peng Minzhi , Cai Yanna , Zhou Chengcheng , Liu Li
Published: December 2022

Background

Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (SSADH-D) is an autosomal recessive gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) metabolism disorder that can arise due to ALDH5A1 mutations, resulting in severe, progressive, untreatable neurodegeneration. SSADH-D is primarily studied using simplified models, such as HEK293 cells overexpressing genes of interest, but such overexpression can result in protein aggregation or pathway saturation that may not be representative of actual underlying disease phenotypes.

Methods

We used a CRISPR/Cas9 approach to generate human iPSC cell lines bearing ALDH5A1 mutations. Through screening, two different mutant cell lines, NM_001080.3: c.727_735del (p.L243_S245del) and NM_001080.3: c.730_738del (p.A244_Q246del), were obtained. We induced iPSCs to neural stem cells and analyzed the characteristics of ALDH5A1 mutations in stem cells.

Results

The human iPSC and NSC cell lines presented typical stem cell–like morphology. We found changes in ALDH5A1 expression and GABA accumulation in the different cell lines. In addition, by analyzing the cDNA between the wild-type and the mutant cell lines, we found that the mutant cell lines had a splicing variant.

Conclusions

iPSCs represent a promising in vitro model for SSADH-D that can be used to study early central nervous system developmental alterations and pathogenic mechanisms.
Machine learning computational tools to assist the performance of systematic reviews: A mapping review
Authors: Cierco Jimenez Ramon , Lee Teresa , Rosillo Nicolás , Cordova Reynalda , Cree Ian A , Gonzalez Angel , Indave Ruiz Blanca Iciar
Published: December 2022

Background

Within evidence-based practice (EBP), systematic reviews (SR) are considered the highest level of evidence in that they summarize the best available research and describe the progress in a determined field. Due its methodology, SR require significant time and resources to be performed; they also require repetitive steps that may introduce biases and human errors. Machine learning (ML) algorithms therefore present a promising alternative and a potential game changer to speed up and automate the SR process. This review aims to map the current availability of computational tools that use ML techniques to assist in the performance of SR, and to support authors in the selection of the right software for the performance of evidence synthesis.

Methods

The mapping review was based on comprehensive searches in electronic databases and software repositories to obtain relevant literature and records, followed by screening for eligibility based on titles, abstracts, and full text by two reviewers. The data extraction consisted of listing and extracting the name and basic characteristics of the included tools, for example a tool’s applicability to the various SR stages, pricing options, open-source availability, and type of software. These tools were classified and graphically represented to facilitate the description of our findings.

Results

A total of 9653 studies and 585 records were obtained from the structured searches performed on selected bibliometric databases and software repositories respectively. After screening, a total of 119 descriptions from publications and records allowed us to identify 63 tools that assist the SR process using ML techniques.

Conclusions

This review provides a high-quality map of currently available ML software to assist the performance of SR. ML algorithms are arguably one of the best techniques at present for the automation of SR. The most promising tools were easily accessible and included a high number of user-friendly features permitting the automation of SR and other kinds of evidence synthesis reviews.
Risk-based stratified primary care for common musculoskeletal pain presentations: qualitative findings from the STarT MSK cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Saunders Benjamin , Chudyk Adrian , Protheroe Joanne , Cooper Vincent , Bartlam Bernadette , Birkinshaw Hollie , Foster Nadine E , Hill Jonathan C
Published: December 2022

Background

The STarT MSK cluster randomised controlled trial (RCT) investigated the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of risk-based stratified primary care versus usual care for patients with back, neck, shoulder, knee or multi-site pain. Trial quantitative results showed risk-based stratified care was not superior to usual care for patients’ clinical outcomes, but the intervention led to some changes in GP clinical decision-making. This paper reports a linked qualitative study exploring how risk-based stratified care was perceived and used in the trial, from the perspectives of clinicians and patients.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 patients, and focus groups and interviews with 20 clinicians (GPs and physiotherapists) in the intervention arm of the trial. Data were analysed thematically and findings explored using Normalisation Process Theory (NPT) and the COM-B model.

Main findings

Risk-based stratified care (subgrouping and matching treatments) was found to have ‘coherence’ (i.e. made sense) to several clinicians and patients, in that it was well-integrated in practice, and supported clinical decision-making. However, for some GPs stratified care was less ‘meaningful’, as the risk-stratification tool did not fit with usual ways of consulting and added to already time-pressured consultations. GPs reported giving more patients written information/advice due to easier access to electronic information leaflets through the trial template and were motivated to refer patients to physiotherapy as they believed the trial resulted in faster physiotherapy access (although this was not the case). Patients and clinicians reported that risk-based stratified care influenced conversations in the consultation, prompting greater attention to psychosocial factors, and facilitating negotiation of treatment options. Physiotherapists saw benefits in receiving information about patients’ risk subgroup on referral forms.

Conclusion

These findings provide context for interpreting some of the trial outcomes, particularly in relation to changes in clinical decision-making when risk-based stratified care was used. Findings also indicate potential reasons for lack of GP engagement with risk-based stratified care. Positive outcomes were identified that were not captured in the quantitative data, specifically that risk-based stratified care positively influenced some GP-patient conversations and facilitated negotiation of treatment options.

Trial registration

ISRCTN15366334 (26/04/2016).
Disulfiram attenuates hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension by inhibiting GSDMD cleavage and pyroptosis in HPASMCs
Authors: Hu Shunlian , Wang Lu , Xu Yahan , Li Fajiu , Wang Tao
Published: December 2022

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by progressive pulmonary arterial remodelling, associated with different severities of inflammation and altered immune processes. Disulfiram eliminates the formation of N-gasdermin D (GSDMD) plasma membrane pores to prevent pyroptosis. Pyroptosis is a form of lytic cell death characterized by inflammasome activation and proinflammatory cytokine release that acts in the development of PH. We sought to investigate whether disulfiram could alleviate hypoxia-induced PH by inhibiting pyroptosis.

Methods

To investigate whether disulfiram alleviates the progression of pulmonary hypertension, rodents were exposed to chronic hypoxia (10% oxygen, 4 weeks) to induce PH. The severity of PH was assessed by measuring right ventricular systolic pressure, mean pulmonary artery pressure, and the degree of right ventricular hypertrophy. Western blotting was used to measure proteins associated with the pyroptosis pathway, and ELISA was performed to measure the secretion of IL-18 and IL-1β, both of which are the primary methods for assessing pyroptosis.

Results

IL-18 and IL-1β concentrations were higher in patients with PH than in normal controls. Disulfiram suppressed the progression of PH in mice and rats through the alleviation of pulmonary arterial remodelling. Pyroptosis-related proteins and the inflammasome were activated in rodent models of PH. Disulfiram inhibited the processing of GSDMD into N-GSDMD and attenuated the secretion of IL-1β and IL18. In vivo experiments showed that disulfiram also inhibited lytic death in HPASMCs.

Conclusions

Disulfiram treatment reduces PH progression through suppressing vascular remodelling by inhibiting GSDMD cleavage and pyroptosis. It might become a novel therapeutic option for the treatment of PH.
Inequities in ambulance allocation associated with transfer delay and mortality in acute coronary syndrome patients: evidence from 89 emergency medical stations in China
Authors: Li Siwen , Dong Xuejie , Li Dongmei , Zhang Hongjuan , Zhou Shuduo , Maimaitiming Mailikezhati , Ma Junxiong , Li Na , Zhou Qiang , Jin Yinzi , Zheng Zhi-Jie
Published: December 2022

Background

Allocation of healthcare resources has a great influence on treatment and outcome of patients. This study aimed to access the inequality of ambulance allocation across regions, and estimate the associations between ambulance density and pre-hospital transfer time and mortality of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was based on an integrated database of electronic medical system for 3588 ACS patients from 31 hospitals, ambulance information of 89 emergency medical stations, and public geographical information of 8 districts in Shenzhen, China. The primary outcomes were the associations between ambulance allocation and transfer delay and in-hospital mortality of ACS patients. The Theil index and Gini coefficient were used to assess the fairness and inequality degree of ambulance allocation. Logistic regression was used to model the associations.

Results

There was a significant inequality in ambulance allocation in Shenzhen (Theil index: 0.59), and the inequality of inter-districts (Theil index: 0.38) was greater than that of intra-districts (Theil index: 0.21). The gap degree of transfer delay, ambulance allocation, and mortality across districts resulted in a Gini coefficient of 0.35, 0.53, 0.65, respectively. Ambulance density was negatively associated with pre-hospital transfer time (OR = 0.79, 95%CI: 0.64,0.97, P = 0.026), with in-hospital mortality (OR = 0.31, 95%CI:0.14,0.70, P = 0.005). The ORs of Theil index in transfer time and in-hospital mortality were 1.09 (95%CI:1.01,1.10, P < 0.001) and 1.80 (95%CI:1.15,3.15, P = 0.009), respectively.

Conclusions

Regional inequities existed in ambulance allocation and has a significant impact on pre-hospital transfer delay and in-hospital mortality of ACS patients. It was suggested to increase the ambulance accessibility and conduct health education for public.
Anxiety and depression in thymoma patients in China before surgery
Authors: Li Jiaduo , Qi Guoyan , Liu Yaling
Published: December 2022

Background

The study's goal was to investigate the percentage of anxiety and depression in Chinese thymoma patients before surgery, and also the factors that influence it.

Methods

The study included patients who had an anterior mediastinal mass discovered by chest CT and were scheduled for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. The mental health rating scales were completed by all patients before surgery. Patients were divided into two groups based on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS): anxiety/depression and non-anxiety/depression. The association between thymoma clinical factors and the HADS score was studied statistically.

Results

The study comprised eighty patients with thymoma. Before the operation, 22.5% (18/80) of the patients had anxiety and/or depression. The resigned coping style characteristics, along with myasthenia gravis (MG), were associated with preoperative anxiety and depression. The greater the score of the resigned dimension, the greater the risk of anxiety and depression, based on the results of logical regression analysis. Thymoma patients with myasthenia gravis have a higher risk of anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

Patients with myasthenia gravis and resigned coping style were found to have higher anxiety and depression before surgery for Chinese thymoma patients.
Guts within guts: the microbiome of the intestinal helminth parasite Ascaris suum is derived but distinct from its host
Authors: Midha Ankur , Jarquín-Díaz Víctor Hugo , Ebner Friederike , Löber Ulrike , Hayani Rima , Kundik Arkadi , Cardilli Alessio , Heitlinger Emanuel , Forslund Sofia Kirke , Hartmann Susanne
Published: December 2022

Background

Intestinal helminths are extremely prevalent among humans and animals. In particular, intestinal roundworms affect more than 1 billion people around the globe and are a major issue in animal husbandry. These pathogens live in intimate contact with the host gut microbiota and harbor bacteria within their own intestines. Knowledge of the bacterial host microbiome at the site of infection is limited, and data on the parasite microbiome is, to the best of our knowledge, non-existent.

Results

The intestinal microbiome of the natural parasite and zoonotic macropathogen,Ascaris suumwas analyzed in contrast to the diversity and composition of the infected host gut. 16S sequencing of the parasite intestine and host intestinal compartments showed that the parasite gut has a significantly less diverse microbiome than its host, and the host gut exhibits a reduced microbiome diversity at the site of parasite infection in the jejunum. While the host’s microbiome composition at the site of infection significantly determines the microbiome composition of its parasite, microbial signatures differentiate the nematodes from their hosts as theAscarisintestine supports the growth of microbes that are otherwise under-represented in the host gut.

Conclusion

Our data clearly indicate that a nematode infection reduces the microbiome diversity of the host gut, and that the nematode gut represents a selective bacterial niche harboring bacteria that are derived but distinct from the host gut.
Rice flowering improves the muscle nutrient, intestinal microbiota diversity, and liver metabolism profiles of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in rice-fish symbiosis
Authors: Wang Erlong , Zhou Ya , Liang Yue , Ling Fei , Xue Xiaoshu , He Xianlin , Zhai Xuliang , Xue Yang , Zhou Chunlong , Tang Guo , Wang Gaoxue
Published: December 2022

Background

Rice-fish symbiosis, as an ecological and green aquaculture model, is an effective measure to relieve the environmental stress from intensive aquaculture. Compared with traditional aquaculture, the altered rearing pattern and environment will make differences in muscle nutrient and quality, intestinal microbiota, body metabolism, and even disease resistance in fish.

Results

To investigate this, we explored the differences between rice-tilapia (aRT and bRT) and tank-tilapia (aTT and bTT) models at the periods before and after rice flowering using 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics. The results showed that compared with tilapia reared in the tank model, the fish body length and weight, the muscle total umami amino acid, and monounsaturated fatty acid content were obviously higher in the rice-fish model, especially after rice flowering. Compared with other groups, the intestinal microbiota diversity of fish in the bRT group was significantly higher; the dominant microbiota wasBacteroidetesandFirmicutesat the phylum level,BacteroidesandTuricibacterat the genus level, and the relative abundances of Gram-negative, potentially pathogenic, and stress-tolerant bacteria were the highest, lowest, and highest, respectively. Besides, the differential metabolite analysis indicated that rice-fish symbiosis improved the metabolic profiles and modulated the metabolic pathways in tilapia. Moreover, the correlation analysis of 16S sequencing and metabolomics showed thatBacteroidesshowed a positive correlation with many metabolites related to amino acid, fatty acid, and lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

In summary, rice flowering improves the tilapia muscle nutrient, intestinal microbiota diversity, and disease resistance and modulates the host metabolism to acclimatize the comprehensive environment in rice-fish symbiosis. Specifically, rice flowering alters the microbiota abundance involved in amino acid, fatty acid, and lipid metabolism, resulting in improving the muscle nutrient and quality through the crosstalk of gut microbial and host metabolism. Our study will provide not only new insight into the gut microbiota-metabolism-phenotype axis, but also strong support for the promotion and application of rice-fish symbiosis in aquaculture.
Do personal resilience, coping styles, and social support prevent future psychological distress when experiencing workplace bullying? Evidence from a 1-year prospective study
Authors: Tsuno Kanami
Published: December 2022

Background

Although previous studies have identified that workplace bullying causes serious mental health problems to the victims, it is not yet fully investigated moderating factors on the association between workplace bullying and psychological distress. This longitudinal study, therefore, examined the moderating role of organizational resources such as supervisor support or coworker support as well as individual resources such as stress coping styles or personal resilience on the association.

Methods

A prospective cohort study for 2036 civil servants was conducted with a one-year time lag (follow-up rate: 77.2%). At baseline, Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised, Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, Brief Scales for Coping Profile, and Brief Job Stress Questionnaire were used to measure workplace bullying, personal resilience, stress coping styles, and social support, respectively. Psychological distress was measured using K6 both at baseline and follow-up.

Results

The results of hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed that workplace bullying was associated with subsequent increased psychological distress even after adjusting for individual and occupational characteristics, but its association disappeared after adjusting for psychological distress at baseline. After adjusting for psychological distress at baseline, greater resilience, greater seeking help, greater changing view, and lower avoidance were associated with lower subsequent psychological distress when being bullied. In contrast, worksite social support and family/friends support was not associated with lower subsequent psychological distress when being bullied. A significant interaction effect of workplace bullying and changing mood was observed on subsequent psychological distress.

Conclusions

The effects or moderating factors were limited on the longitudinal association between bullying and mental health because psychological distress at baseline was the strongest predictor of subsequent psychological distress.
Investigation of Cd(II) sorption by mackinawite (FeS) under anoxic conditions
Authors: Park Minji , Lee Kwang-Sik , Ryu Jungho , Song Young-Suk , Jeong Hoon Young
Published: December 2022

Mackinawite (FeS) was investigated for cadmium ion (Cd(II)) sorption under anoxic conditions. At the surface loading of Cd(II) (i.e., [Cd(II)]0/[FeS]0) ≤ 5 mmol/g, FeS quantitatively immobilized Cd(II). Adsorption and CdS precipitation were responsible for Cd(II) uptake, with their relative importance depending on [Cd(II)]0/[FeS]0. At pH 5.5–6.0, adsorption was more important when [Cd(II)]0/[FeS]0 ≤ 0.05 mmol/g. According to energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Cd(II) exhibited strong spatial correlations with S and Cl. While Cd-S correlations corresponded to CdS precipitation and/or the surface complexation of Cd(II) with sulfhydryl functional sites, Cd–Cl correlations indicated the presence of chloride-complexed Cd(II). Given the strong correlations of both pairs, the adsorbed Cd(II) was likely present in chlorosulfide forms (e.g., ≡FeS–Cd(II)–Cl). When [Cd(II)]0/[FeS]0 exceeded 0.05 mmol/g, CdS precipitation became more important. X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and selected area electron diffraction revealed the formation of hawleyite (cubic CdS) at higher surface loadings. The Fe(II) species liberated during CdS precipitation were resorbed through adsorption at acidic pH and the formation of Fe (oxyhydr)oxides at neutral to basic pH. Given the greater stability of CdS than adsorbed Cd(II), the prevalence of the former suggests that FeS can serve as an effective reagent to remedy Cd(II) contamination under anoxic conditions. Due to its ubiquitous presence, FeS may also control the environmental fate and mobility of Cd(II) in sulfidic sediments.
Vortex-assisted supramolecular solvent dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction of ketoprofen and naproxen from environmental water before chromatographic analysis: response surface methodology optimisation
Authors: Ndilimeke Akawa Mpingana , Dimpe K. Mogolodi , Nomngongo Philiswa Nosizo
Published: December 2022

A microextraction procedure that is rapid and simple to extract and preconcentrate ketoprofen and naproxen is proposed. An environmentally friendly supramolecular solvent was applied as an extraction solvent and proved to be efficient in the extraction of ketoprofen and naproxen from environmental water. The design of experiment approach was used to screen, optimize significant parameters, and determine optimum experimental conditions. Under optimized experimental conditions, the vortex-assisted supramolecular solvent dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction provided a good linearity (0.57–700 µg L−1), low limits of detection (0.17–0.24 µg L−1) and extraction reproducibility below 9%. The high percentage relative recoveries (93.6–101.4%) indicated that the method is not affected by matrix. The practical applicability of the method was assessed by analysing ketoprofen and naproxen in river water and effluent wastewater samples. Both analytes were found in effluent wastewater.
Human mini-blood–brain barrier models for biomedical neuroscience research: a review
Authors: Tran Minh , Heo Chaejeong , Lee Luke P. , Cho Hansang
Published: December 2022

The human blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a unique multicellular structure that is in critical demand for fundamental neuroscience studies and therapeutic evaluation. Despite substantial achievements in creating in vitro human BBB platforms, challenges in generating specifics of physiopathological relevance are viewed as impediments to the establishment of in vitro models. In this review, we provide insight into the development and deployment of in vitro BBB models that allow investigation of the physiology and pathology of neurological therapeutic avenues. First, we highlight the critical components, including cell sources, biomaterial glue collections, and engineering techniques to reconstruct a miniaturized human BBB. Second, we describe recent breakthroughs in human mini-BBBs for investigating biological mechanisms in neurology. Finally, we discuss the application of human mini-BBBs to medical approaches. This review provides strategies for understanding neurological diseases, a validation model for drug discovery, and a potential approach for generating personalized medicine.
On equalization of fundamental education in Tibet: a case study on the trend of conditions of primary and middle schools running
Authors: Zhou Xuewen
Published: December 2022

Based on public data such as the Educational Statistics Yearbook and the National Statistics Yearbook, this paper analyzes the equalization trend of fundamental education in the Tibet Autonomous Region (hereinafter referred to as Tibet), China, using data on running conditions in primary and middle schools in Tibet from 2013 to 2020, and carries out clustering of the rankings of data from China in 2020. The results show that the equalization level of primary and middle education in Tibet has continuously improved from 2013 to 2020. This is evidenced by the increases and improvements in education funding per student, student-teacher ratios, numbers and academic qualifications of teachers, per capita teaching areas and per capita teaching assets. In 2020, the per student education fee in Tibet took the lead in China’s 31 provincial regions, and the student-teacher ratio was close to the national average. Running conditions in primary and middle schools in Tibet still require improvement. This is reflected in the low proportion of full-time teaching staff in primary and middle schools, lack of teachers with senior professional titles in middle schools, area of auxiliary teaching facilities (laboratories, computer rooms, gymnasiums, etc.) in middle schools, and especially in high schools, and shortage of teaching assets (books, computers, multimedia classrooms) in middle schools.
Improving the efficiency of integrated cancer screening delivery across multiple cancers: case studies from Idaho, Rhode Island, and Nebraska
Authors: Tangka Florence K. L. , Subramanian Sujha , Hoover Sonja , Cariou Charlene , Creighton Becky , Hobbs Libby , Marzano Amanda , Marcotte Andrea , Norton Deirdre Denning , Kelly-Flis Patricia , Leypoldt Melissa , Larkins Teri , Poole Michelle , Boehm Jennifer
Published: December 2022

Background

Three current and former awardees of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Colorectal Cancer Control Program launched integrated cancer screening strategies to better coordinate multiple cancer screenings (e.g., breast, cervical, colorectal). By integrating the strategies, efficiencies of administration and provision of screenings can be increased and costs can be reduced. This paper shares findings from these strategies and describes their effects.

Methods

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare developed a Baseline Assessment Checklist for six health systems to assess the current state of policies regarding cancer screening. We analyzed the checklist and reported the percentage of checklist components completed. In Rhode Island, we collaborated with a nurse-patient navigator, who promoted cancer screening, to collect details on patient navigation activities and program costs. We then described the program and reported total costs and cost per activity. In Nebraska, we described the experience of the state in administering an integrated contracts payment model across colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer screening and reported cost per person screened. Across all awardees, we interviewed key stakeholders.

Results

In Idaho, results from the checklist offered guidance on areas for enhancement before integrated cancer screening strategies, but identified challenges, including lack of capacity, limited staff availability, and staff turnover. In Rhode Island, 76.1% of 1023 patient navigation activities were for colorectal cancer screening only, with a much smaller proportion devoted to breast and cervical cancer screening. Although the patient navigator found the discussions around multiple cancer screening efficient, patients were not always willing to discuss all cancer screenings. Nebraska changed its payment system from fee-for-service to fixed cost subawards with its local health departments, which integrated cancer screening funding. Screening uptake improved for breast and cervical cancer but was mixed for colorectal cancer screening.

Conclusions

The results from the case studies show that there are barriers and facilitators to integrating approaches to increasing cancer screening among primary care facilities. However, more research could further elucidate the viability and practicality of integrated cancer screening programs.