bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topical Calcipotriol Plus 5-Fluorouracil in the Treatment of Actinic Keratosis, Bowen’s Disease, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lapidus Adam H. , Lee Sangho , Liu Zhao Feng , Smithson Sarah , Chew Christopher Y. , Gin Douglas
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives:

Actinic keratoses (AK) are premalignant skin lesions caused by chronic sun exposure, topically managed by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), diclofenac 3% gel, and imiquimod. Despite their effectiveness, long treatment duration and severe adverse local skin reactions have limited patient concordance. Calcipotriol has recently been used as a combination agent for existing topical AK treatments. A systematic review was performed to determine the clinical efficacy of 5-FU and calcipotriol for the treatment of AK, Bowen’s disease, and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted on Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Among the 84 records screened, 12 were retrieved for full-text review and 8 were included in the final analysis.

Results:

Among the 8 studies, there were 214 control patients and 288 patients who received the intervention. The combination 5% 5-FU with calcipotriol resulted in a significant reduction in the number of AKs on the face, scalp, right upper extremity, and left upper extremity for all sites at 8 weeks ( P < .0001). No significant difference in SCC incidence was observed at 1 or 2 years, but there was a significant reduction observed at 3 years for SCC on face and scalp. No study assessed the combination for Bowen’s disease.

Conclusions:

Combination 5% 5-FU with calcipotriol is an effective treatment for Aks; however, future trials may consider longer treatment and follow-up periods for the treatment and prevention of AK, SCC in situ, and SCC.
Visible women, invisible gender: Knowledge production on homelessness in Flanders
Authors: Mostowska Magdalena
Published: May 2024

Homelessness as a distinct social problem is a relatively recent social construct. Many women are thought to experience so-called ‘hidden homelessness’, which is said to be the cause of their under-representation in the data. However, data now show a higher proportion of women among those experiencing homelessness. In addition, current definitions explicitly include women’s specific experiences such as living under the threat of violence. This article attempts to explore this contradiction between the alleged invisibility and the increased presence of women in the broader population experiencing homelessness, particularly in the Flemish context. First, the marginalisation and housing precariousness of women is analysed from a historical perspective, from the mid 1800s to the recent federalisation of Belgium. Second, it examines the current production of knowledge about homelessness. The article shows that women’s housing precariousness was conspicuous in the past, even if it was not framed as homelessness. The practices of categorising women and representing gender are explored in current reports, statistical data and expert discourses. The recent ‘numericisation’ of homelessness research, the methods and categorisations used to produce quantitative data, are constantly caught up in existing knowledge, policies and evaluations. As a result, other variables, such as household composition or housing situation, override gender. Fragmented policies and individual responses on the ground contribute to a multiplicity of discourses and a lack of advocacy for women’s homelessness as a distinct social problem. For organisations working and advocating for migrants, migration, not gender, is the defining dimension of vulnerability. For women’s organisations, gender meant inequality manifested in domestic and intimate partner violence. The discourses on these two groups make gender an ambiguous dimension of homelessness. As a result, existing data on homelessness is rarely analysed from a gender perspective. This in turn can hinder the introduction of more gender-sensitive policies.
Exploring the roles of openness to experience, emotions, and proficiency levels in bilingual students’ happiness
Authors: Chen Xinjie , He Jinbo , Cai Zhihui
Published: May 2024

Aims and objectives:

Limited attention has been paid to whether and how bilinguals’ multiple language status is related to their well-being. Thus, this research aims to explore whether and how bilingual proficiency interacts with the relationships between personality, emotions, and happiness in bilinguals.

Methodology:

This study employed a survey questionnaire approach.

Data and analysis:

A sample of 277 bilingual college students in the United States participated in the project. Mediation and moderation analyses were conducted.

Findings and conclusion:

Results suggested that positive emotion fully mediated the relationship between openness to experience and happiness, and bilingual proficiency moderated the relationship between openness to experience and emotions.

Originality:

This study unpacked the link between openness to experience and happiness through mediators of different emotions. Importantly, this study highlighted the different moderating impacts of bilingual proficiency on the relationship between openness to experience and emotions.

Implications:

This study presents several implications related to positive language education practices.
Access to jeopardy: The legal hybridity of criminal-civil debt in the United States
Authors: Verma Anjuli , Sykes Bryan L. , Winnen Kyle
Published: May 2024

Research on the shadow carceral state identifies new species of criminal-civil and civil-criminal legal hybrids embedded in state law. We bring into conversation disparate literatures on growing family complexity, monetary sanctions, justiciable problems, and child support enforcement to examine how contemporary American families experience a system of double and triple jeopardy—the compounding risks of exposure to both criminal and civil debts at the nexus of a legal hybrid, wherein monetary sanctions (criminal) and child support orders (civil) become co-constitutive (double jeopardy), thereby amplifying the risk that a parent will also experience (civil) child support arrearage (triple jeopardy). Using data from seven sources to construct a unique dataset, we evaluate the spatial and racial risk of double and triple jeopardy, as well as the state-level factors that explain them. Our analysis provides a valid description of, and critically establishes the sociolegal precarity wherein, currently incarcerated parents observe and experience their risks of double and triple jeopardy in the child support system via its orders, collections, and enforcement powers. We find that there are, indeed, racial and spatial disparities in the risk of double and triple jeopardy, and that specific state-level factors increment and decrement those risks.
Who counts? Anti-antisemitism and the racial politics of emotion
Authors: Sutcliffe Adam
Published: May 2024

This article focuses on the rise of anti-antisemitic discourse in Britain over the past fifteen years. It explores the relationship between the increasingly emotional tone of public discourse in Britain and other western countries and the miring of anti-antisemitism in dynamics of competitive victimhood and ethnic antagonism. The development of this dynamic is traced from the bitter arguments over the representation and reporting of the Palestine/Israel conflict at the time of the Israeli ground assault in the Gaza Strip in early 2009 – with special attention to Caryl Churchill’s short play Seven Jewish Children – through to recent anti-antisemitic interventions such as David Baddiel’s bestselling polemic Jews Don’t Count (2021) and Jonathan Freedland’s verbatim play recently staged at London’s Royal Court Theatre (2022). These interventions, the article shows, call for the ‘normal’ treatment of anti-Jewish prejudice while simultaneously appealing on exceptionalist grounds for public sympathy with Jewish perceptions of antisemitism. The exceptional moral authority widely accorded to anti-antisemitism has made the cause an attractive one for those who resent what they believe to be the unwarranted priority accorded to non-white victimhood. Various forms of anti-antisemitism, such as Baddiel’s, have thus become front-line arguments in shrill culture-war tussles suffused with intellectual confusion and racially tinged rhetorical combat. This racialization, politicization and emotionalization of anti-antisemitism has reached new heights, the article concludes, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas in October 2023.
Interactions between physical activity and psychological factors in the association with the risk of lean type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Baik Inkyung
Published: May 2024

Background: The extent to which physical activity and psychological factors may affect the risk of diabetes mellitus among lean individuals remains unclear.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the associations of total physical activity (TPA) and psychological factors with lean type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk.

Research Design: A prospective cohort study.

Study Sample: The study population included 1,945 Korean adults who maintained a body mass index <23 kg/m2.

Data Collection and Analysis: Baseline data on TPA and psychological factors were collected and T2DM incidence was assessed for 10 years. For analysis, a multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model was used.

Results: TPA was inversely associated with T2DM risk and this association was more pronounced in participants who were depressed or distressed; the top TPA quartile exhibited significant reductions in T2DM risk of 66% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15, 0.78) and 65% (95% CI: 0.14, 0.88) among participants who reported depressed mood and those who perceived high distress, respectively, compared with the bottom TPA quartile.

Conclusions: The current study demonstrated the preventive effects of physical activity on T2DM in lean adults through its interaction with psychological factors.
Assessment of the Quality of Patient-Oriented Internet Information on Fluorescence Imaging in Surgery
Authors: Khalid Aizaz , Anuff Heena , Woodhead Sophie , Yeung Trevor M.
Published: May 2024

Background

In the digital age, patients are increasingly turning to the Internet to seek medical information to aid in their decision-making process before undergoing medical treatments. Fluorescence imaging is an emerging technological tool that holds promise in enhancing intra-operative decision-making during surgical procedures. This study aims to evaluate the quality of patient information available online regarding fluorescence imaging in surgery and assesses whether it adequately supports informed decision-making.

Method

The term “patient information on fluorescence imaging in surgery” was searched on Google. The websites that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were assessed using 2 scoring instruments. DISCERN was used to evaluate the reliability of consumer health information. QUEST was used to assess authorship, tone, conflict of interest and complementarity.

Results

Out of the 50 websites identified from the initial search, 10 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Only two of these websites were updated in the last two years. The definition of fluorescence imaging was stated in only 50% of the websites. Although all websites mentioned the benefits of fluorescence imaging, none mentioned potential risks. Assessment by DISCERN showed that 30% of the websites were rated low and 70% were rated moderate. With QUEST, the websites demonstrated an average score of 62.5%.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of providing patients with accurate and balanced information about medical technologies and procedures they may undergo. Fluorescence imaging in surgery is a promising technology that can potentially improve surgical outcomes. However, patients need to be well-informed about its benefits and limitations in order to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
Twitch's Second Phase of Development: Analyzing Streamer Profiles and Content Trends That Boost Its Evolution into a Mass Media
Authors: Gamir-Ríos José , Cano-Orón Lorena , García-Casas David
Published: May 2024

Twitch is one of the leading platforms for live streaming audiovisual content, with a broad audience among the Gen Z population. Its growth in recent years has solidified a large Spanish-speaking streamer community that goes beyond gaming or eSports. The objective of this research is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the activity of the most popular Spanish-language channels on Twitch, the demographic profiles of their streamers, and their trajectories in content creation. Additionally, we study the production, formats, advertising funding, and the relationship with followers during broadcasts categorized as In Real Life. We apply a quantitative analysis to 250 channels and a content analysis to 84 h of video. The results show that streamers, mostly millennial men who migrated from other communicative fields, have diversified the content and genres of their streams while professionalizing their production and monetizing their activity by establishing a close relationship with the audience.
Inpatient Corridor Visibility and Care Team Communication
Authors: Zook Julie , Culpeper Rachel , Worley Jennifer , Miller Chase
Published: May 2024

Objective:

This article aims to investigate the impact of fine-grained differences in unit layout on care staff corridor communication.

Background:

Corridor design can be undertaken with greater emphasis on space and cost efficiency or with greater emphasis on affording quality knowledge workspace. Building on prior research on care team communication and inpatient unit design, this study aims to gain a better understanding of how corridor layout properties affect care team communication.

Method:

This study used space syntax analysis to characterize inpatient unit design, specifically floor-plan layout. Two approaches were used to capture care team communication: behavior mapping with recording of care team member locations and whether they were communicating and the HDR CARE Scale, Inpatient Version. The two units were part of a vertical tower expansion project, and, though constructed at separate times, they maintain the same organizational culture, floor plate, and location of key vertical elements.

Results:

The newer unit was found to be more visually open using three measures from space syntax. More nursing staff verbal communication was observed on this unit. Across both units, nursing staff were more likely to be observed verbally communicating in locations that were more visually connected (i.e., at locations with larger viewsheds). There were no significant differences between nursing staff self-report on work using the HDR CARE Scale, Inpatient Version.

Conclusion:

We conclude that care team communication may tend to be encouraged by visual connectivity that can be promoted through floor-plan layout.
Melanoma identification and classification model based on fine-tuned convolutional neural network
Authors: Almufareh Maram F , Tariq Noshina , Humayun Mamoona , Khan Farrukh Aslam
Published: May 2024

Background

Breakthroughs in skin cancer diagnostics have resulted from recent image recognition and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology advancements. There has been growing recognition that skin cancer can be lethal to humans. For instance, melanoma is the most unpredictable and terrible form of skin cancer.

Materials and Methodology

This paper aims to support Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) applications by developing a robust image classification model for the early detection of melanoma, a deadly skin cancer. It presents a novel approach to melanoma detection using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based method that employs image classification techniques based on Deep Learning (DL). We analyze dermatoscopic images from publicly available datasets, including DermIS, DermQuest, DermIS&Quest, and ISIC2019. Our model applies convolutional and pooling layers to extract meaningful features, followed by fully connected layers for classification.

Results

The proposed CNN model achieves high accuracy demonstrates the model’s effectiveness in distinguishing between malignant and benign skin lesions. We developed deep features and used transfer learning to improve the categorization accuracy of medical images. Soft-max classification layer and support vector machine have been used to assess the classification performance of deep features. The proposed model’s efficacy is rigorously evaluated using benchmark datasets: DermIS, DermQuest, and ISIC2019, having 621, 1233, and 25000 images, respectively. Its performance is compared to current best practices showing an average of 5% improved detection accuracy in DermIS, 6% improvement in DermQuest, and 0.81% in ISIC2019 datasets.

Conclusion

Our study showcases the potential of CNN in melanoma detection, contributing to early diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. The developed model proves its capability to aid dermatologists in accurate decision-making, paving the way for enhanced skin cancer diagnosis.
Language adaptations of mental health interventions: User interaction comparisons with an AI-enabled conversational agent (Wysa) in English and Spanish
Authors: Dinesh Dyuthi Nirupama , Rao M Namrata , Sinha Chaitali
Published: May 2024

Background

In recent times, digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) have been proven to be efficacious; however, most are available only for English speakers, leaving limited options for non-English languages like Spanish. Research shows that mental health services in one's dominant language show better outcomes. Conversational agents (CAs) offer promise in supporting mental health in non-English populations. This study compared a culturally adapted version of an artificial intelligence (AI)-led mental health app, called Wysa, in Spanish and English.

Objectives

To compare user engagement patterns on Wysa-Spanish and Wysa-English and to understand expressions of distress and preferred language in both versions of Wysa.

Methods

We adopted a cross-sectional retrospective exploratory design with mixed methods, analyzing users from 10 Spanish-speaking countries between 1 February and 1 August 2022. A quantitative sample A (n = 2767) was used for descriptive statistics, including user engagement metrics with a Wilcoxon test. A subset qualitative sample B (n = 338) was examined for word count differences based on valence, and a content analysis was conducted to examine idioms of distress.

Results

Compared to Wysa-English, Wysa-Spanish had more sessions ( P < .001, d = 0.18) and a greater volume of disclosure of distress. In Wysa-Spanish, the average length of a conversation was significantly longer than in Wysa-English ( P < .001, d = 0.44). Users preferred interventions with free text responses (“Thought recording”) in Spanish ( P < .01, d = 0.41), and Spanish messages were significantly longer ( P < .01, d = 0.24). Wysa-Spanish saw more frequent expressions of negative emotions and feelings of self-harm and suicide.

Conclusion

Given the high engagement within the Spanish version of Wysa, the findings demonstrate the need for culturally adapted DMHIs among non-English populations, emphasizing the importance of considering linguistic and cultural differences in the development of DMHIs to improve accessibility for diverse populations.
Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial of the Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions Intervention for Highly Dependent Adult Children
Authors: Berger Uri , Silverman Wendy K. , Lebowitz Eli R.
Published: May 2024

Adults who do not work, pursue higher education, or live independently from their parents despite the absence of a diagnosed physical, neurodevelopmental, or intellectual disability are often referred to as having ‘failure to launch’ (FTL). This preliminary randomized controlled trial evaluated a new parent-based intervention for FTL: Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions for FTL (SPACE-FTL). Parents of adults with FTL were assigned to SPACE-FTL or a waitlist. Primary outcomes included feasibility, acceptability, treatment satisfaction, and the change in FTL status and symptoms. Secondary and exploratory assessments included parental burden, family accommodation, cost-of-illness, and the adult child’s anxiety and depression symptom severity. Trial completers’ satisfaction score was 28 (87.5% of the maximal score). Post-treatment, FTL was absent in 60% of cases; no change was noted in the waitlist. Symptom severity, parental burden, and family accommodation were significantly reduced. The study provides preliminary evidence that SPACE-FTL can address FTL.
Comparative outcome of different treatment options for acetabulum fractures in elderly individuals—a retrospective analysis of 207 patients
Authors: Husi Sebastian , Vach Werner , Cadosch Dieter , Jakob Marcel , Saxer Franziska , Eckardt Henrik
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Acetabular fractures are challenging injuries in the heterogeneous population of elderly patients. In patients able to partially bear weight, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is indicated. In frail patients, ORIF combined with primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) allows early weight-bearing to preserve independence. This article systematically analyses a treatment algorithm that separates fractures into stable fractures treated conservatively and fractures needing surgical stabilization with osteosynthesis or osteosynthesis plus arthroplasty, dependent on patient characteristics but less on the fracture classification or energetic impact of the trauma.

Methods

Data on patients ≥50 years of age treated for acetabular fractures (2009–2019) were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was loss of independence. In-hospital complications, length of stay, re-operations, the need for walking aids, and pain were analyzed as secondary outcomes.

Results

Out of 207 patients, 135 were male, average age was 70 years. Eighty-five patients were treated conservatively, 89 ORIF, and 33 ORIF plus arthroplasty in one operation. The initial morbidity of patients treated with the combined operation was higher than osteosynthesis alone, but the long-term outcome was favorable with less pain and fewer secondary interventions. Age and female gender were associated with the decision to treat the fracture with the combination of osteosynthesis and arthroplasty.

Conclusions

The results suggest that aged and potentially frail patients with acetabular fracture have better long-term outcome after ORIF combined with arthroplasty at the price of an initially higher risk of adverse outcomes. Females were more frequently treated with the combined operation independent of other risk factors
Does theta synchronicity of sensory information enhance associative memory? Replicating the theta-induced memory effect
Authors: Serin Fatih , Wang Danying , Davis Matthew H. , Henson Richard
Published: May 2024

The binding of information from different sensory or neural sources is critical for associative memory. Previous research in animals suggested that the timing of theta oscillations in the hippocampus is critical for long-term potentiation, which underlies associative and episodic memory. Studies with human participants showed correlations between theta oscillations in medial temporal lobe and episodic memory. Clouter et al. directly investigated this link by modulating the intensity of the luminance and the sound of the video clips so that they ‘flickered’ at certain frequencies and with varying synchronicity between the visual and auditory streams. Across several experiments, better memory was found for stimuli that flickered synchronously at theta frequency compared with no-flicker, asynchronous theta, or synchronous alpha and delta frequencies. This effect – which they called the theta-induced memory effect – is consistent with the importance of theta synchronicity for long-term potentiation. In addition, electroencephalography data showed entrainment of cortical regions to the visual and auditory flicker, and that synchronicity was achieved in neuronal oscillations (with a fixed delay between visual and auditory streams). The theoretical importance, large effect size, and potential application to enhance real-world memory mean that a replication of theta-induced memory effect would be highly valuable. The present study aimed to replicate the key differences among synchronous theta, asynchronous theta, synchronous delta, and no-flicker conditions, but within a single experiment. The results do not show evidence of improved memory for theta synchronicity in any of the comparisons. We suggest a reinterpretation of theta-induced memory effect to accommodate this non-replication.
Slim-endoscope-stabilized rendezvous endoscopic retrograde cholangiography via endoscopic ultrasound transgastric bile duct access: utilization for severe pancreatitis with consecutive obstructive jaundice with cholangitis and inaccessible major papilla
Authors: Oikonomou Vasileios , Macpherson Andrew , Wiest Reiner , Kapoglou Ioannis
Published: May 2024

After failed biliary cannulation via standard endoscopic retrograde cholangiography approach, endoscopic-ultrasound-based rendezvous-endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (EUS-RV-ERC) is a valid alternative. One of the challenging factors in this setting is the management of the guidewire. Here, we propose a method, where a slim endoscope is used to stabilize the guidewire and optimize wire manipulation in a patient who underwent EUS-RV-ERC via a transgastric approach. This was executed in a patient suffering from severe alcoholic pancreatitis presented with a severely narrowed duodenum due to extrinsic compression and inflammation in the setting of cholangitis Tokyo Grade III.
Kobellite homologues from the Boliden Au–Cu–(As) deposit, Sweden: jigsaw patterning via nanoscale intergrowths in chessboard structures
Authors: Ciobanu Cristiana L. , Slattery Ashley D. , Cook Nigel J. , Wade Benjamin P. , Ehrig Kathy , Wagner Thomas , Liu Wenyuan
Published: May 2024

Sulfosalt assemblages in a specimen from the Boliden Au–Cu–(As) deposit in northern Sweden, comprise micrometre to nanometre scale intergrowths of Se-rich izoklakeite and tintinaite with average formulae and calculated homologue number (N) given as: (Cu1.88Fe0.18)2.06(Pb22.92Ag1.47Cd0.01Zn0.01)24.41(Sb13.12Bi8.69)21.8(S50.19Se6.43Te0.12)56.73,N = 3.83, and (Cu1.31Fe0.74)2.05(Pb10.58Ag0.18Cd0.05Zn0.02)10.83(Sb10.2Bi5.23)15.43(S32.22Se2.46)34.7, N = 2.05, respectively. Tintinaite coexists with (Bi, Se)-rich jamesonite. High-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF STEM) imaging reveals chessboard structures comprising PbS and SnS modules with the number of atoms in the octahedral (M) sites counted as: n1 = 18 and n2 = 8 for tintinaite and n1 = 30 and n2 = 16 for izoklakeite. The homologue number can be calculated using the formula: N = (n1/6)–1 and N = n2/4 for PbS and SnS modules giving NTti = 2 and NIz = 4. A new N = 3 homologue, defined by n = 12 and n = 24 SnS and PbS modules, respectively, is identified as single or double units within areas with intergrowths between kobellite and izoklakeite. HAADF STEM imaging also reveals features attributable to lone electron pair micelles within the Sb-rich kobellite homologues. Atomic-resolution EDS STEM chemical mapping of Pb–Bi–Sb-sulfosalts shows a correlation with crystal structural modularity. The maps also highlight sites in the SnS modules of tintinaite in which Sb > Bi. Coherent nanoscale intergrowths between tintinaite and izoklakeite define jigsaw patterns evolving from chessboard structures and are considered to have formed during co-crystallisation of the two phases. Displacement textures and crosscutting veinlets (a few nm in width) are interpreted as evidence for superimposed syn-metamorphic deformation and are associated with the redistribution of Bi and Se. Imaging and mapping using HAADF STEM techniques is well suited to characterisation of Pb–Sb–Bi-sulfosalt phases, offering largely untapped potential to unravel the evolution of chessboard structures with applications across mineralogy but also extending into allied fields.
Bortezomib restrains M2 polarization and reduces CXCL16-associated CXCR6+CD4 T cell chemotaxis in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Zhou Ting , lin Lan , Zhan Yawen , Zhang Ziyao , Jiang Ying , Wu Mi , Xue Dan , Chen Limin , Weng Xiufang , Huang Zhenghui
Published: May 2024

Background

The development of pulmonary fibrosis involves a cascade of events, in which inflammation mediated by immune cells plays a pivotal role. Chemotherapeutic drugs have been shown to have dual effects on fibrosis, with bleomycin exacerbating pulmonary fibrosis and bortezomib alleviating tissue fibrotic processes. Understanding the intricate interplay between chemotherapeutic drugs, immune responses, and pulmonary fibrosis is likely to serve as the foundation for crafting tailored therapeutic strategies.

Methods

A model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis was established, followed by treatment with bortezomib. Tissue samples were collected for analysis of immune cell subsets and functional assessment by flow cytometry and in vitro cell experiments. Additionally, multi-omics analysis was conducted to further elucidate the expression of chemokines and chemokine receptors, as well as the characteristics of cell populations.

Results

Here, we observed that the expression of CXCL16 and CXCR6 was elevated in the lung tissue of a pulmonary fibrosis model. In the context of pulmonary fibrosis or TGF-β1 stimulation in vitro, macrophages exhibited an M2-polarized phenotype and secreted more CXCL16 than those of the control group. Moreover, flow cytometry revealed increased expression levels of CD69 and CXCR6 in pulmonary CD4 T cells during fibrosis progression. The administration of bortezomib alleviated bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, accompanied by reduced ratio of M2-polarized macrophages and decreased accumulation of CD4 T cells expressing CXCR6.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insights into the key immune players involved in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and offer preclinical evidence supporting the repurposing strategy and combination approaches to reduce lung fibrosis.
How long do transport infrastructure last: evidences from Norwegian roads and rail network
Authors: Tveter Eivind , Tomasgard Tore
Published: May 2024

How long will transport infrastructure generate benefits for the society (the appraisal period) is an essential assumption in transport appraisals. However, there are considerable differences in the recommended appraisal periods used in cost–benefit analysis between countries. In this paper, we therefore examine how long transport infrastructure was used in the past before it was replaced, closed, or substantially improved. We label this period the ex-post appraisal period. The study considers rail and roads in Norway and analyses how long they were used using the statistical technique survival analysis. The results show that motorways build in the 1960s was used around 40 years before being upgraded, while most of railroad infrastructure have lasted more than 100 years. If these results are applicable for the future use it may indicate that the use of long appraisal periods (more than 50 years) in some countries could be optimistic for roads and rather conservative for railroads.
The modular architecture of sigma factors in cyanobacteria: a framework to assess their diversity and understand their evolution
Authors: Gevin Marine , Latifi Amel , Talla Emmanuel
Published: May 2024

Background

Bacterial RNA polymerase holoenzyme requires sigma70 factors to start transcription by identifying promoter elements. Cyanobacteria possess multiple sigma70 factors to adapt to a wide variety of ecological niches. These factors are grouped into two categories: primary sigma factor initiates transcription of housekeeping genes during normal growth conditions, while alternative sigma factors initiate transcription of specific genes under particular conditions. However, the present classification does not consider the modular organization of their structural domains, introducing therefore multiple functional and structural biases. A comprehensive analysis of this protein family in cyanobacteria is needed to address these limitations.

Results

We investigated the structure and evolution of sigma70 factors in cyanobacteria, analyzing their modular architecture and variation among unicellular, filamentous, and heterocyst-forming morphotypes. 4,193 sigma70 homologs were found with 59 distinct modular patterns, including six essential and 29 accessory domains, such as DUF6596. 90% of cyanobacteria typically have 5 to 17 sigma70 homologs and this number likely depends on the strain morphotype, the taxonomic order and the genome size. We classified sigma70 factors into 12 clans and 36 families. According to taxonomic orders and phenotypic traits, the number of homologs within the 14 main families was variable, with the A.1 family including the primary sigma factor since this family was found in all cyanobacterial species. The A.1, A.5, C.1, E.1, J.1, and K.1 families were found to be key sigma families that distinguish heterocyst-forming strains. To explain the diversification and evolution of sigma70, we propose an evolutionary scenario rooted in the diversification of a common ancestor of the A1 family. This scenario is characterized by evolutionary events including domain losses, gains, insertions, and modifications. The high occurrence of the DUF6596 domain in bacterial sigma70 proteins, and its association with the highest prevalence observed in Actinobacteria, suggests that this domain might be important for sigma70 function. It also implies that the domain could have emerged in Actinobacteria and been transferred through horizontal gene transfer.

Conclusion

Our analysis provides detailed insights into the modular domain architecture of sigma70, introducing a novel robust classification. It also proposes an evolutionary scenario explaining their diversity across different taxonomical orders.
The bacterial patterns suggesting the dynamic features of tick-associated microorganisms in hard ticks
Authors: Xu Bin , Gu Mengjie , Wu Qunfeng , Shu Chang , Tan Wenbo , Wang Suwen , Zhong Zhengwei , Wang Xiaoling , Li Jian , Wang Jingwen , Wang Yuanzhi , Hu Wei
Published: May 2024

Background

Ticks are blood-feeding significant arthropods that can harbour various microorganisms, including pathogens that pose health risks to humans and animals. Tick-symbiont microorganisms are believed to influence tick development, but the intricate interactions between these microbes and the relationships between different tick-borne microorganisms remain largely unexplored.

Results

Based on 111 tick pool samples presenting questing and engorged statuses including 752 questing tick and 1083 engorged tick from cattle and goats, which were collected in two types of geographic landscape (semi-desert and alpine meadow). We observed significant variations in the composition of tick-borne microorganisms across different environments and blood-engorgement statuses, with a pronounced divergence in symbionts compared to environmental bacteria. Metabolic predictions revealed over 90 differential pathways for tick-borne microorganisms in distinct environments and more than 80 metabolic variations in response to varying blood engorgement statuses. Interestingly, nine pathways were identified, particularly related to chorismate synthesis and carbohydrate metabolism. Moreover, microbial network relationships within tick-borne microorganism groups were highly distinct across different environments and blood-engorgement statuses. The microbial network relationships of symbionts involve some pathogenic and environmental microorganisms. Regression modelling highlighted positive correlations between the Coxiella symbiont and related pathogens, while some environmental bacteria showed strong negative correlations with Coxiella abundance. We also identified commensal bacteria/pathogens in bacterial cooccurrence patterns. Furthermore, we tested pathogenic microorganisms of each tick sample analysis revealed that 86.36% (1601/1855) of the tick samples carried one or more pathogenic microorganisms, The total carrier rate of bacterial pathogens was 43.77% ((812/1855). Most blood samples carried at least one pathogenic microorganism. The pathogens carried by the ticks have both genus and species diversity, and Rickettsia species are the most abundant pathogens among all pathogens.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore that the bacterial pattern of ticks is dynamic and unstable, which is influenced by the environment factors and tick developmental characteristics.
An in-person survey of the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical function, functional capacity, cognitive function, and mental health among community-dwelling older adults in Japan from 2016 to 2022
Authors: Fukase Yuko , Kamide Naoto , Sakamoto Miki , Ando Masataka , Ichikura Kanako , Shiba Yoshitaka , Tagaya Hirokuni
Published: May 2024

Background

The COVID-19 outbreak might have had several effects on older adults; however, much of the previous research only included self-report, cross-sectional, and online-survey data in the early stage of the pandemic. We conducted a face-to-face survey before and after the COVID-19 pandemic and investigated the influence of the pandemic on several functions to distinguish between changes due to aging and changes due to the pandemic using a linear mixed model.

Methods

A total of 8 longitudinal surveys were conducted from 2016 to 2022. Physical function was assessed by weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass index, calf circumference, grip strength, knee extension strength, the 5-times chair stand test, the timed up & go test and 5-m walking test. Functional capacity was measured using the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology index of competence, cognitive function was measured using the Trail Making Test - A, and mental health was measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale.

Results

Of a total of 73 participants, 51 (69.9%) were female. The mean age at first participation was 71.82 years (SD = 4.64). The results of the linear mixed model showed that lower-limb muscle strength and body fat percentage and cognitive function changed significantly before and after the pandemic, while grip strength, functional capacity, and mental health did not.

Conclusions

The changes in these functions between before and after the pandemic might be attributed to the diminished opportunities for the independent older individuals to go out and engage in activities. Although functional capacity did not change, lower-limb muscle strength is important for functional independence. This decline might influence the functional capacity of these individuals in the future.
Unplanned transfer to acute care during inpatient geriatric rehabilitation: incidence, risk factors, and associated short-term outcomes
Authors: Fernandes Sofia , Bula Christophe , Krief Hélène , Carron Pierre-Nicolas , Seematter-Bagnoud Laurence
Published: May 2024

Background

Information is scarce on unplanned transfers from geriatric rehabilitation back to acute care despite their potential impact on patients’ functional recovery. This study aimed 1) to determine the incidence rate and causes of unplanned transfers; 2) to compare the characteristics and outcomes of patients with and without unplanned transfer.

Methods

Consecutive stays (n = 2375) in a tertiary geriatric rehabilitation unit were included. Unplanned transfers to acute care and their causes were analyzed from discharge summaries. Data on patients’ socio-demographics, health, functional, and mental status; length of stay; discharge destination; and death, were extracted from the hospital database. Bi- and multi-variable analyses investigated the association between patients’ characteristics and unplanned transfers.

Results

One in six (16.7%) rehabilitation stays was interrupted by a transfer, most often secondary to infections (19.3%), cardiac (16.8%), abdominal (12.7%), trauma (12.2%), and neurological problems (9.4%). Older patients (AdjORage≥85: 0.70; 95%CI: 0. 53–0.94, P = .016), and those admitted for gait disorders (AdjOR: 0.73; 95%CI: 0.53–0.99, P = .046) had lower odds of transfer to acute care. In contrast, men (AdjOR: 1.71; 95%CI: 1.29–2.26, P < .001), patients with more severe disease (AdjORCIRS: 1.05; 95%CI: 1.02–1.07, P < .001), functional impairment before (AdjOR: 1.69; 95%CI: 1.05–2.70, P = .029) and at rehabilitation admission (AdjOR: 2.07; 95%CI: 1.56- 2.76, P < .001) had higher odds of transfer. Transferred patients were significantly more likely to die than those without transfer (AdjOR 13.78; 95%CI: 6.46–29.42, P < .001) during their stay, but those surviving had similar functional performance and rate of home discharge at the end of the stay.

Conclusion

A significant minority of patients experienced an unplanned transfer that potentially interfered with their rehabilitation and was associated with poorer outcomes. Men, patients with more severe disease and functional impairment appear at increased risk. Further studies should investigate whether interventions targeting these patients may prevent unplanned transfers and modify associated adverse outcomes.
High manifestations of food insecurity and hunger among pregnant and lactating women during post-conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia: a community-based study
Authors: Woldegebriel Ataklti Gebretsadik , Gebrehiwot Gebremedhin Gebreegziabiher , Teka Ataklti Gessesse , Gebreyesus Hagos Amare , Weldeslassie Tesfay Teklemariam , Desta Abraham Aregay , Yigzaw Haftamu Kebede , Bezabih Nega Mamo , Baryau Haylom Kahsay , Haileselassie Mekonnen , Gebregziabiher Mengish Bahresilase
Published: May 2024

Background

Food insecurity is a state or condition in which people have limited or uncertain physical, social, and economic access to safe, sufficient, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs. Since no thorough evaluation was carried out to determine the degree of household food insecurity in Tigrayan communities in the aftermath of the conflict. This study aims to describe household-level food insecurity status among pregnant and lactating women during the post-armed conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia.

Method

Descriptive research was designed to assess household food insecurity. A multi-stage sampling technique was used for this study. One thousand two hundred forty-nine households were selected systematically following a list of food insecure households. Descriptive statistical values, including frequency counts, percentages, minimum values, maximum values, and averages, were calculated to quantify the indicators under study. Household food insecurity and hunger Scale measurement using the standardized Food and Agriculture Organization standard.

Results

The mean age (± SD) of the mothers was 28.35 ± 5.91 years. More than three fourth of the participants 1010(80.93%) were rural residents. The survey result showed that 88.8% of the pregnant and lactating were food insecure. Half (50.1%) of the households were hungry,one month before the study, 78.5% of the families expressed concern about running out of food and 6.4% had severe hunger.

Conclusions

The food insecurity levels and hunger prestige of the study communities were excessively high. This is in the context of a region affected by intense armed conflict. It is commended that the study communities need to be safeguarded from the direct and long-term consequences of armed conflict-caused household food insecurity.
Impact evaluation of invisible intimate partner violence on maternal healthcare utilization in Pakistan
Authors: Xu Xinfang , Liang Di , Anwar Saeed , Zhao Yanan , Huang Jiayan
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Existing research has shown that intimate partner violence (IPV) may hinder maternal access to healthcare services, thereby affecting maternal and child health. However, current studies have ignored whether emotional intimate partner violence (EV) could negatively affect maternal healthcare use. This study aims to evaluate the impact of invisible IPV on maternal healthcare utilization in Pakistan.

Methods

We analyzed nationally representative data from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey database from 2012–2013 and 2017–2018. Exposure to physical intimate partner violence (PV) and EV was the primary predictor. Based on women’s last birth records, outcomes included three binary variables indicating whether women had inadequate antenatal care (ANC) visits, non-institutional delivery, and lack of postnatal health check-ups. A logistic regression model was established on weighted samples.

Results

Exposure to EV during pregnancy was significantly associated with having inadequate ANC visits (aOR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.06 to 4.38, p = 0.033) and non-institutional delivery (aOR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.41 to 3.57, p = 0.001). Lifetime exposure to EV was associated with increased risks of inadequate ANC visits (aOR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.00 to 2.19, p = 0.049). Lifetime exposure to low-scale physical intimate partner violence (LSPV) (adjusted OR (aOR) = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.29 to 2.31, p < 0.001) was associated with increased risks of having no postnatal health check-ups.

Conclusions

Pregnant women who experienced EV and LSPV are at greater risk of missing maternal healthcare, even if the violence occurred before pregnancy. Therefore, in countries with high levels of IPV, early screening for invisible violence needs to be integrated into policy development, and healthcare providers need to be trained to identify EV and LSPV.
Pectinose induces cell cycle arrest in luminal A and triple-negative breast cancer cells by promoting autophagy through activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Yu Shilong , Yue Zhaoyi , Liu Qilun
Published: May 2024

Breast cancer patients often have a poor prognosis largely due to lack of effective targeted therapy. It is now well established that monosaccharide enhances growth retardation and chemotherapy sensitivity in tumor cells. However, Pectinose whether has capability to restrict the proliferation of tumor cells remain unclear. Here, we report that Pectinose induced cytotoxicity is modulated by autophagy and p38 MAPK signaling pathway in breast cancer cell lines. The proliferation of cells was dramatically inhibited by Pectinose exposure in a dose-dependent manner, which was relevant to cell cycle arrest, as demonstrated by G2/M cell cycle restriction and ectopic expression of Cyclin A, Cyclin B, p21and p27. Mechanistically, we further identified that Pectinose is positively associated with autophagy and the activation of the p38 MAPK signaling in breast cancer. In contrast, 3-Ma or SB203580, the inhibitor of autophagy or p38 MAPK, reversed the efficacy of Pectinose suppressing on breast cancer cell lines proliferation and cell cycle process. Additionally, Pectinose in vivo treatment could significantly inhibit xenograft growth of breast cancer cells. Taken together, our findings were the first to reveal that Pectinose triggered cell cycle arrest by inducing autophagy through the activation of p38 MAPK signaling pathway in breast cancer cells,especially in luminal A and triple-negative breast cancer.