bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Repeated co‐exposure to aflatoxin B1and aspartame disrupts the central nervous system homeostasis: Behavioral, biochemical, and molecular insights
Authors: Souto Naieli Schiefelbein , Dassi Micheli , Braga Ana Cláudia Monteiro , Rosa Érica Vanessa Furlan , Fighera Michele Rechia , Royes Luiz Fernando Freire , Oliveira Mauro Schneider , Sari Marcel Henrique Marcondes , Furian Ana Flávia
Published: February 2023

Several studies demonstrated the toxicity of aspartame (ASP) and aflatoxin B1(AFB1) in preclinical models. Although the majority of these reports assessed the toxic effects of each substance separately, their concomitant exposure and hazardous consequences are scarce. Importantly, the deleterious effects at the central nervous system caused by ASP and AFB1co‐exposure are rarely addressed. We evaluated if concomitant exposure to AFB1and ASP would cause behavioral impairment and alteration in oxidative status of the brain in male rats. Animals received once a day for 14 days AFB1(250 µg/kg, intragastric gavage [i.g.]), ASP (75 mg/kg, i.g.), or both substances (association). On day 14, they were subjected to behavioral evaluation, and biochemical and molecular parameters of oxidative status were measured in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. In the open field test, AFB1and combination treatments modified the motor, exploratory, and grooming behavior. In the splash test, all treatments caused a reduction in grooming time compared to the control group. An increase in thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances content induced by AFB1and combination treatments was observed. The antioxidant defenses (vitamin C, nonprotein sulfhydryl, and ferric reducing antioxidant power) were impaired in all groups compared to control. Regarding molecular evaluation, mitochondrial superoxide dismutase‐2 immunoreactivity decreased after AFB1or ASP exposition in the hippocampus. Thus, co‐exposure to ASP and AFB1was potentially more toxic because it aggravated behavioral impairments and oxidative status disbalance in comparison to the groups that received only ASP or AFB1. Therefore, our data suggest that those substances caused a disruption in brain homeostasis.
Sex differences in prognostic role of fasting glucose, Oral glucose tolerance, and HbA1c in diabetic cardiovascular disease
Authors: Yoshida Yilin , Chen Zhipeng , Baudier Robin L. , Krousel‐Wood Marie , Anderson Amanda H. , Fonseca Vivian A. , Mauvais‐Jarvis Franck
Published: February 2023

Highlights

Fasting glucose‐defined prediabetes and undiagnosed diabetes based on the American Diabetes Association criteria were associated with a greater risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and composite atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in women. In contrast, oral glucose tolerance‐defined prediabetes and undiagnosed diabetes were associated with a greater risk of all cardiovascular outcomes in men.

Intermediate A1c was associated with a more pronounced effect on the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke in women, whereas the above diagnostic level of A1c was associated with a higher magnitude of coronary heart risk in undiagnosed men but a higher magnitude of stroke risk in undiagnosed women.
Long non‐coding RNA telomerase RNA elements improve glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis by EZH2 to regulate DKK1
Authors: Hu He , Guo Xiaodong , Mu Tingting , Song Huifang
Published: February 2023

Background

Glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis is the most common secondary cause of osteoporosis, which increases the risk of fracture. Long non‐coding RNA telomerase RNA elements (TERC) has been proven to be closely related to osteoporosis. However, the role of TERC in glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis and its underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear.

Methods

The in vitro model of osteoporosis was established after bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were exposed to dexamethasone (DEX). The cell viability, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralized nodules of BMSCs were evaluated. The messenger RNA and protein levels were detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. The interaction between TERC, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and dickkopf‐1 (DKK1) was confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation and RNA immunoprecipitation assays.

Results

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were isolated, identified and induced osteogenic differentiation. The findings showed that the levels of osteogenic marker genes, including ALP, Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and osteocalcin (OCN) in BMSCs were increased dependent on the osteogenic induction time. Similarly, TERC was significantly increased, but DKK1 was significantly decreased during BMSC osteogenic differentiation. Functional research showed that TERC overexpression promoted cell viability, ALP activity and mineralized nodules of BMSCs and increased the levels of osteogenic differentiation‐related genes (ALP, RUNX2 and OCN), and TERC overexpression increased EZH2 protein level. Moreover, the decrease of cell viability, ALP activity and mineralized nodules induced by DEX was reversed by TERC overexpression. Furthermore, TERC inhibited DKK1 expression by promoting the histone modification of DKK1, and TERC overexpression alleviated DEX suppressed osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by interaction with EZH2 to regulate DKK1.

Conclusion

Our findings illustrated that TERC overexpression alleviated DEX‐induced osteoporosis by recruiting EZH2 to regulate DKK1. Our research provided a novel direction for the treatment of glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis.
Comparison of neoadjuvant nab‐paclitaxel plus immunotherapy versus paclitaxel plus immunotherapy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yang Yafan , Li Haomiao , Chen Xiankai , Qin Jianjun , Li Yong , Shen Yaxing , Zhang Ruixiang , Kang Xiaozheng , Wang Zhen , Zheng Qingfeng , Luo Peng , Li Yin , He Jie
Published: February 2023

Background

This study aimed to compare the feasibility of nab‐paclitaxel plus platinum‐based chemotherapy (nabTP) versus paclitaxel plus platinum‐based chemotherapy (TP) with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as a neoadjuvant modality for locally resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

Between April 2019 and March 2022, we identified ESCC patients who received neoadjuvant immunotherapy with both nabTP (n = 213) and TP (n = 98) at our institution and Henan Cancer Hospital. The patients in the ICIs‐nabTP and ICIs‐TP groups were pair‐matched (1:1) for tumor location, sex, smoking, drinking, clinical T and N stage. The primary endpoint was the hazard of 30‐day major postoperative complications. Second, logistic models were applied to estimate the risk factors for pathological complete response (pCR) rate.

Results

All patients underwent esophagectomy with R0 resection. A statistically significant increase in the risk of developing major pulmonary (odds ratio [OR], 1.182; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.530–2.635; p = 0.683), anastomotic (OR, 1.881; 95% CI: 0.607–5.830; p = 0.267), cardiac (OR, 1.000; 95% CI: 0.426–2.349; p = 1.000) complications after neoadjuvant immunotherapy plus nabTP was not observed. The median interval to surgery was 39 days in the ICIs‐nabTP group versus 44 days in the ICIs‐TP group (p = 0.119). There was no 30‐day mortality in each group. However, there was a slight difference in the 30‐day readmission rate (p = 0.043) and the incidence of hydropneumothorax (p = 0.027) between the two groups. The pCR rates of the ICIs‐nabTP and ICIs‐TP group were 36.7 and 21.4%, respectively (p = 0.018).

Conclusions

It appears to be feasible to add immunotherapy to nabTP regimen for locally advanced ESCC. Compared with TP, nabTP plus ICIs can achieve a better pCR rate in ESCC.
Safety of performing classical versus low transverse caesarean sections in extremely preterm and very preterm births: Maternal and neonatal complications
Authors: Lau Max C. , Tanaka Keisuke , Amoako Akwasi , Rudra Thangeswaran
Published: February 2023

Aims

Improved survivability of extremely preterm infants has led to increased rates of caesarean sections. Short‐term maternal and neonatal risks of classical caesarean sections (CCS) in the context of extreme prematurity remain unclear. The aim was to examine maternal and neonatal complications associated with CCSs versus low transverse caesarean sections (LTCS) at extremely preterm (23 0/7–27 6/7 weeks) and very preterm gestational ages (28 0/7–31 6/7 weeks).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital, Queensland, Australia between 2016 and 2020. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were examined using univariate and multivariate statistical analysis.

Results

CCSs (extremely preterm: n = 93; very preterm: n = 83) were associated with higher estimated blood loss than LTCS (extremely preterm: n = 70; very preterm: n = 287) in very preterm births (CCS: 638 ± 410 mL; LTCS: 556 ± 397 mL; P = 0.01). There was no significant difference in composite maternal outcomes between CCS and LTCS for extremely preterm (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.11; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58–2.12; P = 0.75) or very preterm births (aOR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.63–1.94; P = 0.79) after accounting for multiple pregnancy, placenta accreta and non‐cephalic fetal presentations. Although CCSs were associated with lower Apgar scores at 1 min post‐birth than LTCSs at very preterm gestational ages (CCS: 5.58 ± 2.10; LTCS: 6.25 ± 2.14; P = 0.02), there was no statistical difference in the rates of intraoperative neonatal injuries or composite outcomes when corrected for low birth weight.

Conclusion

Short‐term maternal and neonatal outcomes do not significantly differ between CCS and LTCS for extremely preterm or very preterm births.
Eating versus sleeping: Lunchtime meals and naps relation to afternoon creativity at work
Authors: Yun Mansik , Beehr Terry
Published: February 2023

Based on the Conservation of Resources theory, we develop dual mechanisms by which lunchtime recovery activities predict creativity. Specifically, by conceptualizing the quality of lunchtime naps and meals as examples of recovery activities, we expect these recovery activities help individuals replenish their psychological resources in the form of more work engagement (affective process) and less cognitive depletion (cognitive process). Further, individuals are expected to utilize these available psychological resources to generate creative ideas. To test our model, we used a group‐mean centering approach to focus on within‐person effects by recruiting 230 employees working at construction sites in South Korea. Overall, after removing 242 invalid observations (omitting at least two items and not reporting the duration of a nap), we finalized a total of two‐wave 1598 daily questionnaires. A high quality of lunchtime naps and meals helps individuals recover their emotional resources (more work engagement) and cognitive resources (less cognitive depletion), which predict individuals' creativity. Finally, although indirect effects of the two recovery activities on creativity via affective and cognitive processes were generally supported, the indirect effect of lunch nap quality on creativity via work engagement was not significant, suggesting most of the effect is due to meal quality rather than nap quality.
Keep DRAGging ON: Is solving more problems in DragonBox 12+ associated with higher mathematical performance during the COVID‐19 pandemic?
Authors: Chan Jenny Yun‐Chen , Byrne Chloe , Jerusal Janette , Liu Allison S. , Roberts Justin , Ottmar Erin
Published: February 2023

Prior research has shown that game‐based learning tools, such as DragonBox 12+, support algebraic understanding and that students' in‐game progress positively predicts their later performance. Using data from 253 seventh‐graders (12–13 years old) who played DragonBox as a part of technology intervention, we examined (a) the relations between students' progress within DragonBox and their algebraic knowledge and general mathematics achievement, (b) the moderating effects of students' prior performance on these relations and (c) the potential factors associated with students' in‐game progress. Among students with higher prior algebraic knowledge, higher in‐game progress was related to higher algebraic knowledge after the intervention. Higher in‐game progress was also associated with higher end‐of‐year mathematics achievement, and this association was stronger among students with lower prior mathematics achievement. Students' demographic characteristics, prior knowledge and prior achievement did not significantly predict in‐game progress beyond the number of intervention sessions students completed. These findings advance research on how, for whom and in what contexts game‐based interventions, such as DragonBox, support mathematical learning and have implications for practice using game‐based technologies to supplement instruction.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

DragonBox 12+ may support students' understanding of algebra but the findings are mixed.

Students who solve more problems within math games tend to show higher performance after gameplay.

Students' engagement with mathematics is often related to their prior math performance.

What this paper adds

For students with higher prior algebraic knowledge, solving more problems in DragonBox 12+ is related to higher algebraic performance after gameplay.

Students who make more in‐game progress also have higher mathematics achievement, especially for students with lower prior achievement.

Students who spend more time playing DragonBox 12+ make more in‐game progress; their demographic, prior knowledge and prior achievement are not related to in‐game progress.

Implications for practice and/or policy

DragonBox 12+ can be beneficial as a supplement to algebra instruction for students with some understanding of algebra.

DragonBox 12+ can engage students with mathematics across achievement levels.

Dedicating time and encouraging students to play DragonBox 12+ may help them make more in‐game progress, and in turn, support math learning.
Microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 inhibition prevents adverse cardiac remodelling after myocardial infarction in mice
Authors: Zhang Yuze , Steinmetz‐Späh Julia , Idborg Helena , Zhu Liyuan , Li Huihui , Rao Haojie , Chen Zengrong , Guo Ziyi , Hu Lejia , Xu Chuansheng , Chen Hong , Korotkova Marina , Jakobsson Per‐Johan , Wang Miao
Published: February 2023

Background and Purpose

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is a major consequence of myocardial infarction (MI). The microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 (mPGES‐1)/PGE2 pathway has been shown to constrain reperfusion injury after acute myocardial ischaemia. However, it is unknown whether pharmacological inhibition of mPGES‐1, a target with lower risk of thrombosis compared with selective inhibition of cyclooxygenase‐2, affects chronic cardiac remodelling after MI.

Experimental Approach

Mice were subjected to left anterior descending coronary artery ligation, followed by intraperitoneal treatment with the mPGES‐1 inhibitor compound III (CIII) or 118, celecoxib (cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor) or vehicle, once daily for 28 days. Urinary prostanoid metabolites were measured by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.

Key Results

Chronic administration of CIII improved cardiac function in mice after MI compared with vehicle or celecoxib. CIII did not affect thrombogenesis or blood pressure. In addition, CIII reduced infarct area, augmented scar thickness, decreased collagen I/III ratio, decreased the expression of fibrosis‐related genes and increased capillary density in the ischaemic area. Shunting to urinary metabolites of PGI2, not thromboxane B2 or PGD2, after inhibition of mPGES‐1 was positively correlated with cardiac function after MI. CIII administration significantly increased urinary PGI2/PGE2 metabolite ratio compared to vehicle or celecoxib. The PGI2/PGE2 metabolite ratio correlated positively with ejection fraction, fractional shortening and scar thickness. Treatment with 118 also improved cardiac function.

Conclusion and Implications

Inhibition of mPGES‐1 prevented chronic adverse cardiac remodelling via an augmented PGI2/PGE2 metabolite ratio and therefore represents a potential therapeutic strategy for development of HFrEF after MI.
Targeting of SIRPα as a potential therapy for Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Okamoto Takeshi , Murata Yoji , Hasegawa Daiichiro , Yoshida Makiko , Tanaka Daisuke , Ueda Takashi , Hazama Daisuke , Oduori Okechi S. , Komori Satomi , Takai Tomoko , Saito Yasuyuki , Kotani Takenori , Kosaka Yoshiyuki , Maniwa Yoshimasa , Matozaki Takashi
Published: February 2023

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare neoplastic disorder characterized by inflammatory lesions arising from the anomalous accumulation of pathogenic CD1a+CD207+ dendritic cells (DCs). SIRPα is a transmembrane protein highly expressed in myeloid cells such as DCs and macrophages. Here we show that SIRPα is a potential therapeutic target for LCH. We found that SIRPα is expressed in CD1a+ cells of human LCH lesions as well as in CD11c+ DCs in the spleen, liver, and lung of a mouse model of LCH (BRAFV600ECD11c mouse), in which an LCH‐associated active form of human BRAF is expressed in a manner dependent on the mouse Cd11c promoter. BRAFV600ECD11c mice manifested markedly increased numbers of CD4+ T cells, regulatory T cells, and macrophages as well as of CD11c+MHCII+ DCs in the spleen. Monotherapy with a mAb to SIRPα greatly reduced the percentage of CD11c+MHCII+ DCs in peripheral blood, LCH‐like lesion size in the liver, and the number of CD11c+MHCII+ DCs in the spleen of the mutant mice. Moreover, this mAb promoted macrophage‐mediated phagocytosis of CD11c+ DCs from BRAFV600ECD11c mice, whereas it had no effects on the viability or CCL19‐dependent migration of such CD11c+ DCs or on their expression of the chemokine genes Ccl5, Ccl20, Cxcl11, and Cxcl12. Our results thus suggest that anti‐SIRPα monotherapy is a promising approach to the treatment of LCH that is dependent in part on the promotion of the macrophage‐mediated killing of LCH cells.
Efficacy and safety of PLDR‐IMRT for the re‐irradiation of recurrent NPC: A prospective, single‐arm, multicenter trial
Authors: Huang Rui , Li Zhihui , Yang Fan , Zhang Yu , Jiang Yanhui , Li Churong , Gao Hui , Li Guanghui , Liu Yimin , Guo Wenyan , Yang Dingqiang , Zhang Shichuan , Li Jie , Wen Hao , Lang Jinyi , Zhang Peng
Published: February 2023

Salvage treatment of locoregionally recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) requires weighing the benefits of re‐irradiation against increased risks of toxicity. Here, we evaluated the outcomes of patients treated with intensity‐modulated‐based pulsed low‐dose‐rate radiotherapy (PLDR‐IMRT) to enhance the curative effect of salvage treatment and reduce RT‐related SAEs. A prospective clinical trial was conducted from March 2018 to March 2020 at multiple institutions. NPC patients who experienced relapse after radical therapy were re‐irradiated with a median dose of 60 Gy (50.4–70 Gy)/30 f (28–35 f) using PLDR‐IMRT. Thirty‐six NPC patients who underwent PLDR‐IMRT for locoregional recurrence were identified. With a median follow‐up of 26.2 months, the objective response rate (ORR) of the entire cohort was 91.6%. The estimated mPFS duration was 28 months (95% CI: 24.9–31.1), and the estimated mLRFS duration was 30.4 months (95% CI: 25.2–35.5). The overall survival (OS) rate for all patients was 80.6%, the progression‐free survival (PFS) rate was 75% and the cancer‐specific survival (CSS) rate was 88.9% at 1 year. The LRFS and DMFS rates were 88.9% and 91.7%, respectively, at 1 year. A combination of systematic therapies could provide survival benefits to patients who experience NPC relapse (p < 0.05), and a Karnofsky performance status (KPS) score of ≥90 was a favorable factor for local control (p < 0.05). The incidence of acute SAEs (grade 3+) from PLDR was 22.2%, and the incidence of chronic SAEs was 19.4% among all patients. PLDR‐IMRT combined with systematic therapy can effectively treat patients with locoregionally recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma and causes fewer adverse events than the rates expected with IMRT.
OGG1 aggravates renal ischemia–reperfusion injury by repressing PINK1‐mediated mitophagy
Authors: Zhao Fan , Zhu Jiefu , Zhang Mingjiao , Luo Yanwen , Li Yuzhen , Shi Lang , Huang Jing , Shadekejiang Halinuer , Dong Shengyu , Wu Xiongfei
Published: February 2023

Renal ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) is mainly responsible for acute kidney injury for which there is no effective therapy. Accumulating evidence has indicated the important role of mitophagy in mitochondrial homeostasis under stress. OGG1 (8‐oxoguanine DNA glycosylase) is known for functions in excision repair of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. However, the role of OGG1 in renal IRI remains unclear. Herein, we identified OGG1, induced during IRI, as a key factor mediating hypoxia‐reoxygenation‐induced apoptosis in vitro and renal tissue damage in a renal IRI model. We demonstrated that OGG1 expression during IRI negatively regulates mitophagy by suppressing the PINK1/Parkin pathway, thereby aggravating renal ischemic injury. OGG1 knockout and pharmacological inhibition attenuated renal IRI, in part by activating mitophagy. Our results elucidated the damaging role of OGG1 activation in renal IRI, which is associated with the regulatory role of the PINK1/Parkin pathway in mitophagy.
PRAME immunohistochemistry can distinguish melanocytic pseudonests of lichenoid reactions from melanoma in situ
Authors: Roy Simon F. , Panse Gauri , McNiff Jennifer M.
Published: February 2023

Background

Distinguishing melanocytic pseudonests encountered in lichenoid dermatoses or lichenoid keratoses from melanoma in situ (MIS) with brisk lichenoid inflammation can prove challenging.

Methods

We designed a case–control study to evaluate the accuracy metrics of PRAME immunohistochemistry to distinguish melanocytic pseudonests in lichenoid dermatoses or keratoses from inflamed MIS. Immunostaining for PRAME was performed on paraffin‐embedded formalin‐fixed diagnostic tissue using a rabbit monoclonal antibody to PRAME (Abcam), with a 1:3200 dilution on a Leica Bond detection system.

Results

Our search identified 21 cases of melanocytic pseudonests (n = 21, 46%) encountered in lichenoid dermatoses and 24 cases of inflamed MIS (n = 24, 53%). Each method of evaluating PRAME immunohistochemistry (PRAME+ clusters, PRAME % of melanocytes by four categories and PRAME+ melanocyte counts per linear mm of epidermal basal layer) showed statistically significant differences between the MIS and the pseudonest cohorts (respectively, p < 0.001; p < 0.001; and p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristics analysis for PRAME+ melanocyte counts per linear mm of epidermal basal layer revealed an area under the curve of 0.9 ± 0.05 (95% confidence interval 0.9–1.0). When determining an optimal cut‐off point for the best Youden index [sensitivity (%) + specificity (%) − 100], the cut‐off of 1.0 PRAME+ melanocytes per linear mm showed a sensitivity of 79.2% and specificity of 85.7% (Youden index 0.65) to distinguish MIS from pseudonests.

Conclusion

PRAME immunohistochemistry may constitute an additional tool for this challenging differential diagnosis.
Imatinib‐induced lichen planus and lichenoid drug eruption: A report of three cases
Authors: Almheirat Y. , Bouabdalla S. , Daflaoui H. , Zizi N. , Dikhaye S.
Published: February 2023

Cutaneous adverse effects of imatinib are common and well documented in the literature. However, imatinib‐induced lichen planus is an uncommon side effect with only four reported cases. In addition, reactivation of hepatitis B is an extremely rare association. We report two cases of imatinib‐induced lichen planus, one of which is associated with hepatitis B reactivation, and one case of lichenoid eruption caused by imatinib. The aim of our report is to make physicians aware of this rare association between lichen planus and imatinib. We also recommend screening for hepatitis B virus before starting treatment with imatinib to avoid serious complications.
Exploring patient experience and satisfaction with depot buprenorphine formulations: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Allen Eve , Samadian Sona , Altobelli Gary , Johnson Jacinta , Holmwood Chris
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The introduction of depot buprenorphine for the treatment of opioid dependence allows for reduced dosing frequency compared with conventional treatments, such as oral methadone and sublingual buprenorphine‐naloxone. Reduced dosing frequency is perceived to reduce issues such as high out‐of‐pocket costs, frequent attendance to pharmacies, stigmatisation and the risk of diversion for unsanctioned opioid use. This study aims to explore the experiences of patients receiving depot buprenorphine from an Australian publicly operated drug and alcohol service.

Methods

Participants were recruited from the service over a 5‐week period in 2021. Twenty‐eight participants consented to be involved in a mixed methods quantitative verbal survey and qualitative interview process.

Results

The majority of participants reported satisfaction with depot buprenorphine across the domains of efficacy, convenience and global satisfaction. Participants perceived benefits as increased convenience, reduced stigmatisation and the inability to ‘skip’ daily Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) doses. There were mixed experiences with the ability for depot buprenorphine to ‘hold’ participants throughout the dosing interval. Reduced contact and disconnection from healthcare services were reported as an issue for some participants when initiating depot buprenorphine.

Discussion and Conclusions

Patient perceptions of depot buprenorphine appear to be deeply rooted in prior experience with ‘conventional’ MATOD treatments. Depot buprenorphine is seen to be beneficial socially, personally, and financially by the majority of patients interviewed. The potential for disconnection from services and mixed experiences of efficacy throughout the dosing period may negatively influence patient experience.
Subjective norms as a mediator between exposure to online alcohol and marijuana content and offline use among adolescents
Authors: Cristello Julie V. , Litt Dana M. , Sutherland Matthew T. , Trucco Elisa M.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

While adolescent substance use (SU) may be viewed as normative, SU can quickly escalate leading to consequences. Social media use may increase SU risk. Despite using social media to connect with others, adolescents also view depictions of glamorised SU by both peers and influential figures. Exposure to online alcohol and marijuana content may impact subjective norms (i.e., injunctive and descriptive) ultimately leading to increased offline SU. Data from a multi‐wave project was collected to assess whether subjective norms‐mediated associations between exposure to alcohol and marijuana content by peers and influential figures on Instagram and Snapchat and offline SU.

Methods

At Wave 1, participants were 264 adolescents (Mage = 14.91, 51% female, 86% White, 85% Hispanic/Latino/a/x).

Results

Injunctive norms significantly mediated associations between exposure to alcohol content posted by peers and influential figures on Instagram and Snapchat and offline alcohol use. Injunctive norms significantly mediated associations between exposure to marijuana content posted by peers and influential figures on Instagram, and peers on Snapchat and offline marijuana use. Descriptive norms significantly mediated associations between exposure to alcohol content posted by peers on Instagram, as well as peers and influential figures on Snapchat and offline alcohol use.

Discussion and Conclusion

Increased exposure to online SU content was more consistently associated with injunctive norms rather than descriptive norms. Future research should examine which social media features (e.g., the like button) contribute to increased subjective norms. Overall, findings suggest that social media may strongly convey approval of SU behaviours rather than actual use.
Community pharmacists' roles, attitudes and knowledge regarding provision of screening and brief intervention activities for alcohol use in Catalonia
Authors: Torres‐Novellas Berta , Palacio‐Vieira Jorge , Segura‐García Lidia , Díaz Estela , Rius Pilar , Veciana Antonio , Colom Joan
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Community pharmacists (CP) are among the health professionals with closest contact to the general population. They play a key role in delivering public health programs. The aim of this study was to analyse the attitudes, knowledge, preparedness and ability to screen and advise on alcohol of CP in Catalonia and their perceptions about the provision of alcohol screening and brief interventions (SBI) in community pharmacies.

Methods

This is an observational, cross‐sectional study. An online survey on attitudes, knowledge and behaviours was sent to all registered CP in Catalonia, and bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses were conducted.

Results

The response rate was 7.96% (639/8027), more than two‐thirds of respondents were 41 years of age or older and 79.9% were female. Results showed that CP readiness to offer advice on alcohol problems was higher than their preparedness to screen (37.5% vs. 31.8%, respectively). They also showed that having received 1 h or more of training on alcohol and drug‐related health promotion and prevention during the last 5 years increased CP perception of role security and therapeutic commitment related to alcohol.

Discussion and Conclusion

This study showed that involving CP in the provision of alcohol SBIs may be feasible in Catalonia. Furthermore, this and previous research show an association between CP training in alcohol or drugs and preparedness to screen and advise on alcohol use. Consequently, promoting alcohol‐related training programs to enhance CP skills is recommended to support successful implementation of alcohol SBI in community pharmacy settings.
Alcohol‐related mortality in four European countries: A multiple‐cause‐of‐death study
Authors: Fihel Agnieszka , Trias‐Llimós Sergi , Muszyńska‐Spielauer Magdalena M. , Majerová Markéta
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The impact of conditions that partly or indirectly contribute to drinking‐related mortality is usually underestimated. We investigate all alcohol‐related multiple (underlying and contributory) causes of death and compare mortality distributions in countries with different levels and patterns of drinking.

Method

Analysis of population‐level mortality data for persons aged 20 and over in Austria, Czechia, Poland and Spain. Age‐standardised death rates and standardised ratios of multiple to underlying cause were calculated for alcohol‐related causes of death.

Results

Multiple‐cause mortality ranged from 20 to 58 deaths per 100,000 for men and from 5 to 16 per 100,000 for women. Liver diseases were the most common underlying and multiple causes, but mental and behavioural disorders were the second or third, depending on country and sex, most prevalent multiple mentions. Two distinct age patterns of alcohol‐related mortality were observed: in Czechia and Poland an inverted‐U distribution with a peak at the age of 60–64, in Austria and Spain a distribution increasing with age and then levelling off for older age groups.

Discussion and Conclusion

The importance of alcohol‐related conditions that indirectly impact mortality can be re‐assessed with the use of contributory mentions. The multiple‐cause‐of‐death approach provides convergent results for countries characterised by similar patterns of alcohol consumption. Multiple‐cause mortality was almost double the level of mortality with alcohol as the underlying cause, except in Poland. Mental and behavioural disorders were mostly certified as contributory to other, non‐alcohol‐related underlying causes of death.
Municipal Councillors and the Everyday State: New Representations of Political Accountability in Ahmedabad, India
Authors: Das Rusha , Lutringer Christine
Published: February 2023

Scholarly literature on municipal councillors in urban India has variously labelled them as ‘lords’, ‘captains’ and ‘shrewd operators’ who have the power to mobilize resources and act as political intermediaries between the state and ordinary citizens. Conversely, voters are seen as collectively trading their votes to secure access to the state's resources. In this article, empirical fieldwork in the city of Ahmedabad, India, suggests that while traditional modes of patron–client relationships continue to exist at the municipal urban governance level, there has been a shift in the roles as perceived by municipal councillors themselves. The ‘state at the roadside’ model of urban governance is being expanded to include new modes and sites of mediation with citizens. Drawing from the literature on political representative claims and social representation theory, this article argues that the changes in the practices of municipal councillors are driven partly by political aspirations that are distinct from their identity as a party karyakarta (worker) and partly as a response to a better‐informed citizenry, referred to as jagrukt janta (public awareness). These shifts create the conditions for new modes of civic engagement and political accountability within existing patronage‐based networks.
Metabolic and bariatric surgery in China: A summary of the Greater China Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Database and comparison with other international registry databases
Authors: Tian Peirong , Fu Jing , Li Mengyi , Liu Yang , Bian Shibo , Zhang Meng , Liu Jia , Jin Lan , Zhang Zhongtao , Zhang Peng
Published: February 2023

Aims

To summarize the Greater China Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Database (GC‐MBD) and to compare patient characteristics and different procedures performed with data from published reports from other international bariatric surgery registries.

Materials and Methods

Data were extracted from the GC‐MBD registry in 2021. Baseline demographic characteristics, obesity‐related comorbidities and operational information were analysed. Descriptive comparisons of these data were made with the published reports from four other international/national databases, including the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) registry, the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database of the United States, the National Bariatric Surgical Registry (NBSR) of the United Kingdom, and the Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry (SOReg).

Results

Fifty‐three centres in China registered 6807 cases in the GC‐MBD. Compared with published data from the IFSO registry, MBSAQIP, NBSR and SOReg, patients in China undergoing surgery were younger and had a lower body mass index. The incidence of other obesity‐related comorbidities, except for gastroesophageal reflux disease, was also higher than in Western countries. Furthermore, more patients underwent sleeve gastrectomy, less revisional bariatric surgery was reported in China, and jejunojejunal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy, uncommon in other countries, was China's second‐leading bariatric procedure.

Conclusions

By establishing comprehensive national registries such as the GC‐MBD, real‐world information can be gathered on clinical practice and patient outcomes. Insights into variations in clinical practice can be identified by comparing reports from different countries, which can help in making and evaluating healthcare policies on the best clinical practices at a national level.
Neural tracking of visual periodic motion
Authors: Varlet Manuel , Nozaradan Sylvie , Schmidt Richard C. , Keller Peter E.
Published: February 2023

Periodicity is a fundamental property of biological systems, including human movement systems. Periodic movements support displacements of the body in the environment as well as interactions and communication between individuals. Here, we use electroencephalography (EEG) to investigate the neural tracking of visual periodic motion, and more specifically, the relevance of spatiotemporal information contained at and between their turning points. We compared EEG responses to visual sinusoidal oscillations versus nonlinear Rayleigh oscillations, which are both typical of human movements. These oscillations contain the same spatiotemporal information at their turning points but differ between turning points, with Rayleigh oscillations having an earlier peak velocity, shown to increase an individual's capacity to produce accurately synchronized movements. EEG analyses highlighted the relevance of spatiotemporal information between the turning points by showing that the brain precisely tracks subtle differences in velocity profiles, as indicated by earlier EEG responses for Rayleigh oscillations. The results suggest that the brain is particularly responsive to velocity peaks in visual periodic motion, supporting their role in conveying behaviorally relevant timing information at a neurophysiological level. The results also suggest key functions of neural oscillations in the Alpha and Beta frequency bands, particularly in the right hemisphere. Together, these findings provide insights into the neural mechanisms underpinning the processing of visual periodic motion and the critical role of velocity peaks in enabling proficient visuomotor synchronization.
Dual antiplatelet therapy in acute ischaemic stroke with or without cerebral microbleeds
Authors: Wang Meng , Yang Yuyuan , Wang Yajuan , Luan Moxin , Xu Lulu , Zhong Meixiang , Zheng Xueping
Published: February 2023

Antiplatelet therapy (APT) plays an important role in the prevention of ischaemic stroke (IS). Our aim was to assess the influence of short‐term single APT (SAPT) and dual APT (DAPT) on the prognosis of patients with acute IS with and without cerebral microbleeds (CMBs). We conducted a single‐centre, retrospective, observational cohort study of patients with acute IS who underwent susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) to determine the presence of CMBs between January 2015 and December 2020. The patients were treated with either DAPT or SAPT and followed up for at least 2 years. The primary endpoint was a composite of recurrent IS and intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH), while either recurrent IS or ICH was considered as other endpoints. We computed weighted Kaplan–Meier curves and identified risk factors using the Cox proportional hazards model. Among the 581 enrolled patients, those with CMBs (n = 225; P = 0.004) had a higher risk of the primary endpoint than those without CMBs (n = 356), especially higher risk of recurrent IS (P = 0.029). In the SAPT group, the presence of CMBs increased the risk of the primary endpoint (P = 0.013), especially that of recurrent IS (P = 0.019). In the DAPT group, the occurrence of ICH was higher in patients with CMBs (P = 0.031). The CMB distribution did not influence the risk of recurrent IS or ICH. In patients with acute IS and CMBs, DAPT may offset the risk of recurrent IS due to CMBs but increase the risk of ICH.
Functional outcome after initial and multiple intracerebral hemorrhages in children with cerebral cavernous malformations
Authors: Santos Alejandro N. , Rauschenbach Laurèl , Gull Hannah Hadice , Dinger Thiemo Florin , Chihi Mehdi , Li Yan , Tippelt Stephan , Dohna‐Schwake Christian , Schmidt Börge , Jabbarli Ramazan , Wrede Karsten H. , Sure Ulrich , Dammann Philipp
Published: February 2023

Background and purpose

We aimed to assess the course and predictors of functional outcome after single and multiple intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in pediatric patients with cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) and to conduct a risk assessment of a third bleed during the first follow‐up year after second ICH.

Methods

We included patients aged ≤18 years with complete baseline characteristics, a magnetic resonance imaging dataset, ≥1 CCM‐related ICH and ≥1 follow‐up examination, who were treated between 2003 and 2021. Neurological functional status was obtained using modified Rankin Scale scores at diagnosis, before and after each ICH, and at last follow‐up. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed to determine the cumulative 1‐year risk of third ICH.

Results

A total of 55 pediatric patients (median [interquartile range] age 12 [11] years) were analyzed. Univariate analysis identified brainstem cavernous malformation (BSCM; p = 0.019) as a statistically significant predictor for unfavorable outcome after second ICH. Outcome after second ICH was significantly worse in 12 patients (42.9%; p = 0.030) than after first ICH and in five patients (55.6%; p = 0.038) after a third ICH compared to a second ICH. Cumulative 12‐month risk of rebleeding during the first year after a second ICH was 10.7% (95% confidence interval 2.8%–29.37%).

Conclusions

Pediatric patients with a BSCM have a higher risk of worse outcome after second ICH. Functional outcome improves over time after an ICH but worsens following each ICH compared to baseline or previous ICH. Second bleed was associated with neurological deterioration compared to initial ICH, and this deteriorated further after a third ICH.
Oesophageal glomus tumours: rare neoplasms with aggressive clinical behaviour
Authors: Birkness‐Gartman Jacqueline E , Wangsiricharoen Sintawat , Lazar Alexander J , Gross John M
Published: February 2023

Aims

Glomus tumours are neoplasms with perivascular smooth muscle differentiation, which rarely occur in the oesophagus and may behave aggressively in this site based upon prior case reports. This study describes the clinicopathologic features of three oesophageal glomus tumours diagnosed at two large academic institutions between 1984 and 2022.

Methods and results

Three cases of oesophageal glomus tumours were identified. Patients included two females and one male, with an age range of 19–65 years. All three tumours behaved in a malignant fashion, with metastases to various sites (lymph nodes, lung, pericardium, pleura, diaphragm, scalp). One patient developed an aorto‐oesophageal fistula, resulting in a fatal haemorrhage. Tumours ranged in size from 4.5 to 8.1 cm. Histologically, all tumours had a multinodular, perivascular growth pattern. The neoplasms showed varying degrees of cytologic atypia and spindling, elevated mitotic activity (2–12 mitotic figures per 10 high‐power fields), and necrosis was seen in in two cases. All tumours expressed smooth muscle actin by immunohistochemistry, and harboured NOTCH gene alterations (MIR143::NOTCH2 fusion in two cases; NOTCH3 rearrangement and NOTCH1 point mutation in one case). An ATRX splicing mutation in exon 10 was also identified in one case.

Conclusion

Oesophageal glomus tumours pose diagnostic challenges, given their rarity at this site, but can be recognised by their characteristic perivascular growth pattern, round central nuclei, and supportive ancillary studies. Given the propensity for aggressive behaviour in this location, we recommend management by a multidisciplinary sarcoma team for optimal outcome.
Efficacy and safety of oral isotretinoin in the treatment of moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis: a retrospective study
Authors: Yanfei Zhang , Xiaoying Ning , Dingwei Zhang , Wei Wang , Jianwen Ren
Published: February 2023

Background and objectives

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common, chronic, and recurrent inflammatory skin disease. There are few studies on oral isotretinoin in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. The aim of this research was to analyze the efficacy and safety of oral isotretinoin in the treatment of patients with moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. All included patients were diagnosed as moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis and treated with oral isotretinoin from January 2019 to December 2020. Symptom Scale of Seborrheic Dermatitis (SSSD) was used to evaluate the overall severity status of disease.

Results

A total of 48 patients with moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis were enrolled, of which 26 patients were treated with oral isotretinoin at a dose of 20 mg/day, and 22 patients were treated with oral isotretinoin at a dose of 10 mg/day. The duration of treatment was 2.42 ± 0.98 months (range: 2–6 months). The absolute SSSD values were 10.63 ± 1.02 for all 48 patients, 10.95 ± 1.15 and 10.30 ± 1.11 for patients with a dose of 20 and 10 mg/day, respectively. At the endpoint, there were no significant difference in SSSD values between the two groups (2.21 ± 0.24 vs. 2.35 ± 0.46, P = 0.18). The patients were satisfied with the two treatment schemes, and the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.78). The most common side effect was cheilitis; however, no serious adverse events occurred in either group.

Conclusions

When considering efficacy and safety, oral isotretinoin can be used to treat patients with moderate to severe seborrheic dermatitis.
A meta‐analysis on the characteristics of placebo effects on urinary function in placebo‐controlled clinical trials among Japanese patients
Authors: Hara Tomohiko
Published: February 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the effect sizes, changes over time, and ethnic differences in placebo effects on urinary function among Japanese patients participating in clinical trials.

Methods

A meta‐analysis of 30 Japanese placebo‐controlled clinical trials was conducted to determine the placebo effects on three functions: daily urinary frequency, nocturnal urinary frequency, and average urine volume per void.

Results

The I‐square heterogeneity values for the basic values of the three functions ranged from 84.5% to 97.9%, with differences among trials. Longitudinal analysis (1 to 12 weeks) indicated an enhanced placebo effect for up to 8 weeks and no consistency among trials on nocturnal urinary frequency (p < 0.01), unlike those on daily urinary frequency and average urine volume per void (p = 1.0). Based on the random‐effects model, the mean differences in urinary frequency at 4, 8, and 12 weeks were −0.70 (−0.80; −0.60), −1.06 (−1.16; −0.96), and −1.18 (−1.34; −1.01), respectively. Furthermore, the mean difference (95% confidence interval) in nocturnal urinary frequency and volume of urination per void at 12 weeks was −0.63 (−0.94; −0.31) and 9.67 (7.25; 12.1), respectively.

Conclusions

My findings suggest an increase in the strength of placebo effects over time (up to 8 weeks). A comparison of my results to those published in previous global reports showed no meaningful differences in placebo effects among ethnic groups. The consistent placebo effect size on urinary function could be an external indicator in clinical trials.