bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circ-phkb promotes cell apoptosis and inflammation in LPS-induced alveolar macrophages via the TLR4/MyD88/NF-kB/CCL2 axis
Authors: Wei Xuxia , Yi Xiaomeng , Liu Jianrong , Sui Xin , Li Lijuan , Li Mei , Lv Haijin , Yi Huimin
Published: January 2024

Background

Circular RNAs (CircRNAs) have been associated with acute lung injury (ALI), but their molecular mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods

This study developed a rat model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI and evaluated the modeling effect by hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson’s trichrome staining, lung wet-to-dry weight ratio, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase UTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detection of inflammatory factors (interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-6). Using lung tissues from a rat model of LPS-induced ALI, we then conducted circRNA sequencing, mRNA sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis to obtain differential circRNA and mRNA expression profiles as well as potential ceRNA networks. Furthermore, we performed quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assays to screen for circ-Phkb in ALI rat lung tissues, alveolar macrophages, and LPS-induced NR8383 cells. We conducted induction with or without LPS with circ-Phkb siRNA and overexpression lentivirus in NR8383. Cell Counting Kit-8, C5-Ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (Edu), TUNEL, and cytometry were used to identify proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. We detected inflammatory factors using ELISA. Finally, we used Western blot to detect the apoptosis-related proteins and TLR4/MyD88/NF-kB/CCL2 pathway activation.

Results

Our results revealed that both circRNA and mRNA profiles are different from those of the Sham group. We observed a significant circ-Phkb upregulation in NR8383 cells and LPS-exposed rats. Apoptosis and inflammation were greatly reduced when circ-Phkb expression was reduced in NR8383 cells, cell proliferation was increased, and circ-Phkb overexpression was decreased.

Conclusions

In terms of mechanism, circ-Phkb suppression inhibits CCL2 expression via the TLR4/MyD88/NF-kB pathway in LPS-induced alveolar macrophages.
Impaired influenza A virus replication by the host restriction factor SAMHD1 which inhibited by PA-mediated dephosphorylation of the host transcription factor IRF3
Authors: Zhao Zhilei , Han Shuyi , Zhang Qingxun , Wang Ye , Yue Kening , Abbas Salbia , He Hongxuan
Published: January 2024

Background

Influenza A virus (IAV) can cause severe and life-threatening illness in humans and animals. Therefore, it is important to search for host antiviral proteins and elucidate their antiviral mechanisms for the development of potential treatments. As a part of human innate immunity, host restriction factors can inhibit the replication of viruses, among which SAM and HD domain containing deoxynucleoside triphosphate triphosphohydrolase 1 (SAMHD1) can restrict the replication of viruses, such as HIV and enterovirus EV71. Viruses also developed countermeasures in the arms race with their hosts. There are few reports about whether SAMHD1 has a restriction effect on IAV.

Methods

To investigate the impact of IAV infection on SAMHD1 expression in A549 cells, we infected A549 cells with a varying multiplicity of infection (MOI) of IAV and collected cell samples at different time points for WB and RT-qPCR analysis to detect viral protein and SAMHD1 levels. The virus replication level in the cell culture supernatant was determined using TCID50 assay. Luciferase assay was used to reveal that H5N1 virus polymerase acidic protein (PA) affected the activity of the SAMHD1 promoter. To assess the antiviral capacity of SAMHD1, we generated a knockdown and overexpressed cell line for detecting H5N1 replication.

Results

In this study, we observed that SAMHD1 can restrict the intracellular replication of H5N1 and that the H5N1 viral protein PA can downregulate the expression of SAMHD1 by affecting SAMHD1 transcriptional promoter activity. We also found that SAMHD1's ability to restrict H5N1 is related to phosphorylation at 592-tyrosine.

Conclusions

In conclusion, we found that SAMHD1 may affect the replication of IAVs as a host restriction factor and be countered by PA. Furthermore, SAMHD1 may be a potential target for developing antiviral drugs.
Is blinding in studies of manual soft tissue mobilisation of the back possible? A feasibility randomised controlled trial with Swiss graduate students
Authors: Muñoz Laguna Javier , Nyantakyi Emanuela , Bhattacharyya Urmila , Blum Kathrin , Delucchi Matteo , Klingebiel Felix Karl-Ludwig , Labarile Marco , Roggo Andrea , Weber Manuel , Radtke Thomas , Puhan Milo A , Hincapié Cesar A
Published: January 2024

Study design

Single-centre, two-parallel group, methodological randomised controlled trial to assess blinding feasibility.

Background

Trials of manual therapy interventions of the back face methodological challenges regarding blinding feasibility and success. We assessed the feasibility of blinding an active manual soft tissue mobilisation and control intervention of the back. We also assessed whether blinding is feasible among outcome assessors and explored factors influencing perceptions about intervention assignment.

Methods

On 7–8 November 2022, 24 participants were randomly allocated (1:1 ratio) to active or control manual interventions of the back. The active group (n = 11) received soft tissue mobilisation of the lumbar spine. The control group (n = 13) received light touch over the thoracic region with deep breathing exercises. The primary outcome was blinding of participants immediately after a one-time intervention session, as measured by the Bang blinding index (Bang BI). Bang BI ranges from –1 (complete opposite perceptions of intervention received) to 1 (complete correct perceptions), with 0 indicating ‘random guessing’—balanced ‘active’ and ‘control’ perceptions within an intervention arm. Secondary outcomes included blinding of outcome assessors and factors influencing perceptions about intervention assignment among both participants and outcome assessors, explored via thematic analysis.

Results

24 participants were analysed following an intention-to-treat approach. 55% of participants in the active manual soft tissue mobilisation group correctly perceived their group assignment beyond chance immediately after intervention (Bang BI: 0.55 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.25 to 0.84]), and 8% did so in the control group (0.08 [95% CI, −0.37 to 0.53]). Bang BIs in outcome assessors were 0.09 (−0.12 to 0.30) and −0.10 (−0.29 to 0.08) for active and control participants, respectively. Participants and outcome assessors reported varying factors related to their perceptions about intervention assignment.

Conclusions

Blinding of participants allocated to an active soft tissue mobilisation of the back was not feasible in this methodological trial, whereas blinding of participants allocated to the control intervention and outcome assessors was adequate. Findings are limited due to imprecision and suboptimal generalisability to clinical settings. Careful thinking and consideration of blinding in manual therapy trials is warranted and needed.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05822947 (retrospectively registered)
A qualitative analysis of free-text patient satisfaction responses in Care Response, a database of patient-reported outcome and experience measures
Authors: Young Kenneth J. , Young Helen C. , Field Jonathan
Published: January 2024

Background

Databases have become important tools in improving health care. Care Response is a database containing information on tens of thousands of chiropractic patients internationally. It has been collecting patient-reported outcomes and patient satisfaction information for more than 10 years. The purpose of this study was to contribute to the understanding of patient perceptions and priorities for chiropractic care by analysing free text entered into the patient reported experience measure (PREM) questionnaires within the Care Response system.

Methods

There were two questions of interest on the PREM for this study. One requested information about “good points” patients perceived about patients’ care experience, and the other requested information on “improvements” that could make the experience better. We conducted a word frequency analysis using a word counting macro in Microsoft Word, then used those results as a starting point for a qualitative analysis. Data were collected on 30 May 2022.

Results

The people who participated in the Care Response system often reported positive experiences with their chiropractors, including that they had reduced pain, improved function, and felt validated in their clinical condition. In addition, they appreciated having diagnostic and treatment procedures explained to them. They valued friendly, professional, and on-time service. The negative experiences were the opposite: being rushed through treatment, that the treatment was not worth the cost, or that they weren’t treated professionally, empathetically, or with respect for them as individuals. The most important themes that emerged under “good points” were satisfaction (with care), value (as a person), safety, comfort, and professionalism. Their opposites, dissatisfaction, lack of value, lack of safety, lack of comfort, and lack of professionalism emerged as the most important themes under “improvements”. We report some nuances of patient experience that have not previously been explored in the literature.

Conclusions

Respondents seemed to value effective care provided in a safe, professional, friendly, and aesthetically pleasing environment. Chiropractors should note these priorities and engage with patients according to them. Education institutions should consider how good practice in these areas might be incorporated into curricula.
Allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation outcomes of patients aged ≥ 55 years with acute myeloid leukemia or myelodysplastic syndromes in China: a retrospective study
Authors: Gao Lu , Yang Li , Zhou Shiyuan , Zhu Wenjuan , Han Yue , Chen Suning , Xue Shengli , Wang Ying , Qiu Huiying , Wu Depei , Wu Xiaojin
Published: January 2024

Background

Elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia or myelodysplastic syndromes (AML/MDS) have historically had poor prognoses. However, there has been a recent increase in the use of allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) are in this patient population. Nevertheless, the optimal choice of donor type for the patients remains an unmet need. Limited data exist on the use of allo-HSCT in elderly patients with AML/MDS from China. To better understand and optimize the selection of donor type for the elderly patients, particularly for those with refractory or relapsed disease, in comparison with the previous studies in the US and Europe.

Methods

Our retrospective study enrolled 259 patients aged over 55 years who underwent their first allo-HSCT between April 2015 and August 2022. These patients were divided into three groups based on donor type: haploidentical related donor group (haploidentical related donor transplantation [HID], n = 184), matched sibling donor group (matched sibling donor transplantation [MSD], n = 39), and matched unrelated donor group (matched unrelated donor transplantation [MUD], n = 36). Statistics were performed with the chi-square test, the log-rank and Fine-Gray tests.

Results

The median age of the cohort was 57 years (range: 55–75) and 26.25% of patients were over 60 years old. Younger patients had a higher incidence of acute graft-versus-host disease (HR = 1.942, P = 0.035), faster neutrophil recovery (HR = 1.387, P = 0.012), and better overall survival (HR = 0.567, P = 0.043) than patients aged ≥ 60 years across the entire cohort. Patients with refractory or relapsed (R/R) diseases had delayed neutrophil engraftment (P = 0.010, HR = 0.752) and platelet engraftment (P < 0.001, HR = 0.596), higher incidence of relapses (HR = 2.300, P = 0.013), and inferior relapse-free survival (RFS) (HR = 1.740, HR = 0.016) regardless of donor type. When it came to graft-versus-host-disease-free, relapse-free survival (GRFS), MUDs turned out to be superior to HIDs (HR = 0.472, P = 0.026) according to the multivariable analysis. In contrast, we found MSDs had an inferior GRFS to HIDs in parallel (HR = 1.621, P = 0.043).

Conclusion

The choice of donor type did not significantly affect the outcomes of allo-HSCT. However, when considering the quality of post-transplant life, MUDs or HIDs from younger donors may be the optimal choice for elderly patients.
Differences in quality of life and fitness level among men and women in the adulthood: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Alvarez-Bueno Celia , del Saz-Lara Alicia , Cavero-Redondo Ivan , Rodriguez-Gutierrez Eva , Gonzalez-Molinero Marta , Bizzozero-Peroni Bruno , Pascual-Morena Carlos , Lucas-Torres Maribel Luceron
Published: January 2024

Background

This study aimed to examine the associations between physical fitness components and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among adults stratified by sex and age. In addition, we aimed to examine whether these associations change based on socioeconomic, clinical, and biochemical characteristics.

Methods

A total of 297 participants aged 47.41 (standard deviation: 9.08) years from the “Validity of a Model of Accelerated Vascular Aging as a Cardiovascular Risk Index in Healthy Adults: the EVasCu cross-sectional study” were included in this analysis. HRQoL, physical fitness, socioeconomic status (SES), waist circumference, and blood pressure were measured. Additionally, blood samples were extracted to determine cholesterol, triglyceride, and glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) were estimated to test mean differences in physical and mental health-related health measures (HRQoL) between fitness categories (fixed factors) by sex and age categories.

Results

The physical HRQoL was related to the levels of fitness parameters among women, independent of age, while for men, it was related to better levels of general fitness and cardiorespiratory fitness among men aged < 50 and men aged ≥ 50, respectively. In contrast, mental HRQoL was related to cardiorespiratory fitness only among women aged < 50 years; speed/agility and flexibility among men aged < 50 years; and general fitness, strength, and flexibility among men aged ≥ 50 years. These data did not change when SES, clinical variables, or biochemical determinations were included in the analyses, neither for the physical nor for the mental HRQoL.

Conclusion

Gender and age are important factors to be considered when analysing health indicators and influences in the population. In addition, SES, clinical characteristics, and biochemical parameters do not seem to influence the relationship between HRQoL and fitness.
Mean compression ratio of a self-expandable valve is associated with the need for pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Qi Yiming , Ding Yuefan , Pan Wenzhi , Zhang Xiaochun , Lin Xiaolei , Chen Shasha , Zhang Lei , Zhou Daxin , Ge Junbo
Published: January 2024

Background

The risk and timing of permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is still hard to predict. We aimed to analyze the relationship between the compression ratio of a self-expandable valve (SEV) and the need for PPMI after TAVR.

Methods

A total of 106 patients who were implanted with the VitaFlow transcatheter aortic valve system and for whom complete imaging information was available were included in this retrospective cohort study. Eight lines perpendicular to the long axis of the SEV were drawn (the top and bottom of the SEV and the intersection of each row of wires) for measurement purposes. The compression ratio was calculated as 1 − (in vivo meridian/in vitro meridian) and compared between patients undergoing and those not undergoing PPMI after adjusting for implantation depth. Multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess factors associated with the risk and timing of the need for PPMI.

Results

Fifteen (14.2%) patients underwent PPMI after TAVR. Patients with a higher mean compression ratio (20%, odds ratio [OR] = 214.82; p < 0.001) and prior right bundle branch block (OR = 51.77; p = 0.015) had a higher risk of the need for PPMI after TAVR. These two factors were also associated with the timing of PPMI, according to the Cox proportional hazards model.

Conclusions

The compression ratio of the SEV was positively associated with the risk of PPMI after TAVR, and the association was most significant in the annular and supravalvular planes. The compression ratio may also affect the time to PPMI.
Comment on: Proposal for a new diagnostic classification of photodistributed Stevens–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis
Authors: Thwala Bukiwe N. , Teixeira Nadine , Zitha Eddy , Mpungose Aneliswa , Isaacs Thuraya , Peter Jonathan G. , Lehloenya Rannakoe J.
Published: January 2024

Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and SJS/TEN overlap (SJS/TEN), collectively referred to SJS/TEN, form a spectrum of severe life-threatening adverse drug reactions whose pathomechanism is not fully understood. The article "Photodistributed Stevens–Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Systematic Review and Proposal for a New Diagnostic Classification" by McKinley et. al., discusses a distinct distribution of epidermal necrosis in SJS/TEN, attributable to preceding exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), and relative sparing of photo-protected areas. After reviewing numerous cases within the Immune-mediated Adverse drug Reactions in African HIV endemic setting Register and Biorepository (IMARI-SA) at the University of Cape Town with a similar clinical pattern as those published by McKinley et. al., we propose that the relative sparing of some areas giving an impression of photo-distribution is due to localised increase in skin pressure that reduces the blood supply in that area below a critical threshold. A dip in blood supply below this critical threshold quantitively limited T lymphocytes and cytokines that drive SJS/TEN to reach and damage the skin.
Differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs and mRNAs of cadmium exposure on learning disability of offspring rats
Authors: Liu Hui , Wan Xichen , Yao Liyun , Zhao Qihan , Yang Yong , Liu Hongtao , Shang Jun , Zeng Fanfan , Wang Xin , Huang Shaoxin
Published: January 2024

Background

Cadmium (Cd) exposure has been found to have detrimental effects on the development of the central nervous system and cognitive ability in children. However, there is ongoing debate regarding the impact of maternal Cd exposure on the cognitive ability of offspring. In this study, we aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the influence of maternal Cd exposure on the cognitive ability of offspring rats.

Methods

Here, we constructed a model of cadmium poisoning in first-generation rats through gavage. The cognitive and memory abilities of its offspring were evaluated by water maze experiment. Then, we used the gene chip to find out the key genes, and we performed qRT-PCR detection of these genes. Subsequently, enrichment analysis was employed to identify pathways. Finally, we constructed a co-expression network consisting of LncRNAs and mRNAs to elucidate the biological functions and regulatory mechanisms of LncRNAs.

Results

The results of the water maze trial demonstrated that the offspring of rats exposed to cadmium in the first generation had reduced cognitive and memory abilities. Through an analysis of gene expression in the hippocampus of the cadmium-treated rats' offspring and the control group, we identified a correlation between the islet secretion pathway and the cognitive impairment observed in the offspring. Utilizing various algorithms, we identified Cpa1 and Prss1 as potential key genes associated with the cognitive impairment caused by cadmium. The results of qRT-PCR demonstrated a decrease in the expression levels of these genes in the hippocampus of the cadmium-treated rats’ offspring. In addition, in the co-expression network, we observed that Cpa1 was co-expressed with 11 LncRNAs, while Prss1 was associated with 4 unexplored LncRNAs. Furthermore, we conducted an analysis to examine the relationship between Cpa1, Prss1-related transcription factors, and LncRNAs.

Conclusion

Overall, this study provides novel insights into the molecular effects of first generation Cd exposure on the cognitive ability of offspring. The target genes and signaling pathways investigated in this study could serve as potential targets for improving neurodevelopment and cognitive ability in children.
Insights into the mechanism of L-malic acid on drip loss of chicken meat under commercial conditions
Authors: Sun Haijun , Yan Xue , Wang Lu , Zhu Ruimin , Chen Meixia , Yin Jingdong , Zhang Xin
Published: January 2024

Background

A deterioration in the meat quality of broilers has attracted much more attention in recent years. L-malic acid (MA) is evidenced to decrease meat drip loss in broilers, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. It’s also not sure whether the outputs obtained under experimental conditions can be obtained in a commercial condition. Here, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of dietary MA supplementation on chicken meat drip loss at large-scale rearing.

Results

Results showed that the growth performance and drip loss were improved by MA supplementation. Meat metabolome revealed that L-2-aminoadipic acid, β-aminoisobutyric acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and nicotinamide, as well as amino acid metabolism pathways connected to the improvements of meat quality by MA addition. The transcriptome analysis further indicated that the effect of MA on drip loss was also related to the proper immune response, evidenced by the enhanced B cell receptor signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, and IL-17 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

We provided evidence that MA decreased chicken meat drip loss under commercial conditions. Metabolome and transcriptome revealed a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Together, MA could be used as a promising dietary supplement for enhancing the water-holding capacity of chicken meat.
Congenital septal defects in Karachi, Pakistan: an update of mutational screening by high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis of MTHFR C677T
Authors: Ali Syed Irtiza , Khan Obaid Yusuf , Naveed Nadir , Ahmad Hussain , Patel Najma , Arif Afsheen
Published: January 2024

Background

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the heart structural malformations present at birth. Septal defects account for 40% of CHD, including atrial, ventricular and atrioventricular septal defects. In Pakistan, the prevalence of CHD is 3.4 in 1000, and a study estimated that 60,000 babies are born with CHD annually. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), a chief enzyme, involved in the folate metabolism. The missense mutation, C677T (rs1801133), exists in MTHFR gene, results in a MTHFR thermolabile variant having low enzymatic activity. The study is aim to identify the MTHFR C677T variant association with septal defects.

Methods

Samples of 194 CHD patients (age $$\overline{X }\hspace{0.17em}$$

X
¯

= 5.8 ± 5.1) and 50 normal echo controls (age $$\overline{X }\hspace{0.17em}$$

X
¯

= 6.0 ± 4.9), confirmed by pediatric consultant, were collected. Extracted DNA, quantified by agarose gel electrophoresis and nanodrop, was screened for SNP by high-resolution melting (HRM). Further, HRM results were confirmed using restriction analysis and sequencing. HRM was simply and precisely genotyped the samples within 3 h at low cost.

Results

Genotypic data suggested that heterozygous mutant (CT) was frequent in congenital septal defect patients (0.26) which was higher than controls (0.143), p > 0.05. Mutant (TT) genotype was not found in this study.

Conclusions

rs1801133 has lack of significant association with congenital septal defects. The absence of TT genotype in this study suggesting the role of natural selection in targeted population. HRM is an easy, fast and next generation of PCR, which may be used for applied genomics.
Host plants directly determine the α diversity of rhizosphere arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities in the National Tropical Fruit Tree Field Genebank
Authors: Wang Jugang , Gao Xiaomin , Wang Jiali , Song Jian , Zhu Zhoujun , Zhao Junru , Liu Min , Wang Zuhua
Published: January 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) typically exhibit reduced diversity in nutrient-rich soils. However, whether the influence of host plants on AMF within the rhizosphere is direct or indirect through the alteration of soil nutrient levels has yet to be determined. This study explored the diversity and colonization of AMF in the National Tropical Fruit Tree Genebank, where chemical fertilizers are used to preserve minor tropical fruit germplasms. We aimed to understand the direct and indirect effects of host plants on AMF community dynamics, sporulation, and colonization. By analyzing fine roots and rhizosphere soil from 12 tropical fruit trees, we assessed mycorrhizal colonization indices, soil nutrients, AMF spore density, and community structure. Despite their low colonization density and arbuscular abundance, all the tree roots harbored AMF, with spore densities ranging from 24.00 to 204.80 spores/100 g of dry soil. High-throughput sequencing identified 207 AMF virtual taxa (VTs) from 60 soil samples, with dominant taxa, including early-evolved Paraglomus fungi and ruderal AMF, being minimally affected by soil nutrient levels. Interestingly, there was no correlation between α diversity and spore density. Structural equation modeling (SEM) indicated that host plant evolutionary divergence time (ET) directly influenced AMF α diversity indices and indirectly impacted spore density via soil nutrients. However, neither ETs nor soil nutrients significantly affected the AMF community structure, with only arbuscular abundance showing a negative correlation with ET. This research underscores the intricate relationship between host plants and AMF in genebanks, offering insights for effective AMF resource management and informed conservation practices.

Graphical Abstract
Gender patterns in engineering PhD teaching assistant evaluations corroborate role congruity theory
Authors: Evans C. A. , Adler K. , Yucalan D. , Schneider-Bentley L. M.
Published: January 2024

Background

The body of work regarding gender bias in academia shows that female instructors are often rated lower by students than their male counterparts. Mechanisms are complex and intersectional and often associated with role congruity theory. Little research has examined parallel patterns in graduate teaching assistant (TA) evaluations. In research institutions, TAs make up a large portion of teaching teams. Identifying bias and working to remove it is critical to shifting the already-well-documented gender imbalance in higher education. To evaluate gender-associated perceptions of graduate TAs’ teaching skills, we analyzed Likert-scale, mid-semester survey data using ordinal logistic regression models for PhD TAs in five (pre-COVID) semesters in the College of Engineering at Cornell University, a large R1 institution in the United States. We also regressed scores for each survey question against the overall TA quality rating for male- and female-identifying TAs to compare the strength of those relationships and explore potential differences in student expectations associated with gender roles. A subset of narrative comment data were coded into themes, analyzed, and triangulated with other observed patterns.

Results

Male TAs had a higher likelihood of receiving a better rating than female TAs for all survey questions in which students rated performance. Statistical evidence of different slopes of relationships between particular questions and overall TA quality rating suggested that female and male TAs were “valued” more for behaviors/attributes congruent with roles ascribed to that gender in broader society. Female TAs received a higher proportion of positive comments for communication skills and more comments regarding supportiveness than male TAs. Males received more comments about their overall value as TAs, however all comments regarding overall quality as TAs were positive regardless of gender. The amount and proportion of comments that were positive or negative for knowledge, enthusiasm, preparedness or fairness were the same for male and female TAs.

Conclusions

Gender-based disparity is occurring in TA evaluations and aligns with patterns observed in research on teaching evaluations for faculty. Correlation between overall TA ratings and scores for specific survey questions and narrative responses indicate that role congruity influences traits that students perceive as important and positive in TAs of different genders.
Andexanet alpha-induced heparin resistance treated by nafamostat mesylate in a patient undergoing total aortic arch repair for Stanford type A acute aortic dissection: a case report
Authors: Suzuki Yasuhito , Kikura Mutsuhito , Kawashima Shingo , Kimura Tetsuro , Nakajima Yoshiki
Published: January 2024

Background

Andexanet alfa, an anti-Xa inhibitor antagonist, induces heparin resistance. Here, we report a case of successful management of cardiopulmonary bypass with andexanet alfa-induced heparin resistance using nafamostat mesylate.

Case presentation

An 84-year-old female, with Stanford type A acute aortic dissection, underwent an emergency surgery for total aortic arch replacement. Andexanet alfa 400 mg was administered preoperatively to antagonize edoxaban, an oral Xa inhibitor. Heparin 300 IU/kg was administered before cardiopulmonary bypass, and the activated clotting time (ACT) was 291 s. The ACT was 361 s after another administration of heparin 200 IU/kg. According to our routine therapy for heparin resistance, an initial dose of nafamostat mesylate 10 mg was administered intravenously, followed by a continuous infusion of 20–30 mg/h. The ACT was prolonged to 500 s, and cardiopulmonary bypass was successfully established thereafter.

Conclusions

This case report presents the successful management of cardiopulmonary bypass with andexanet alfa-induced heparin resistance using nafamostat mesilate. This report presents the successful management of cardiopulmonary bypass with andexanet alfa-induced heparin resistance using nafamostat mesilate.
Nutritional intake, environmental factors, and their impact on myopia prevalence in Korean children aged 5–12 years
Authors: Kim Jeong-Mee , Choi Yean-Jung
Published: January 2024

Background

Myopia is a complex condition influenced by numerous factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. Although evidence indicates that certain dietary factors may influence the development of myopia, this relationship is still not completely understood and is a topic of ongoing research.

Methods

This study analyzed the relationship between dietary habits, environmental factors, and the prevalence of myopia in a sample of 24,345 children aged 5–12 years from the seventh Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES VII). The average daily intake of dietary nutrients associated with the refractive error status of the participants was analyzed using analysis of variance (GLM) and the Scheffe method for post-hoc comparison. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted between the participant’s refractive error status and daily dietary nutrient intake, while taking into consideration the age, sex, BMI, parental myopia, and near-work hours.

Results

The risk of myopia increased with age, especially notable between ages 11 and 12, and was higher in children with both parents having myopia. Dietary factors played a crucial role; children with myopia had significantly lower intake of fat, omega-3 fatty acids, and retinol but higher intake of other nutrients compared to emmetropic and hyperopic counterparts. High consumption of carbohydrates, protein, phosphorus, iron, potassium, and sodium was associated with increased myopia risk. High sodium intake was particularly associated with a 2.05-fold increased myopia risk.

Conclusions

This study highlights the significant role of diet and lifestyle choices in the development of myopia in children. Our findings suggest the importance of considering these specific factors in the management and prevention strategies for myopia, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in children's health and vision care.
Clinical situations for which 3D printing is considered an appropriate representation or extension of data contained in a medical imaging examination: pediatric congenital heart disease conditions
Authors: Ryan Justin R. , Ghosh Reena , Sturgeon Greg , Ali Arafat , Arribas Elsa , Braden Eric , Chadalavada Seetharam , Chepelev Leonid , Decker Summer , Huang Yu-Hui , Ionita Ciprian , Lee Joonhyuk , Liacouras Peter , Parthasarathy Jayanthi , Ravi Prashanth , Sandelier Michael , Sommer Kelsey , Wake Nicole , Rybicki Frank , Ballard David
Published: January 2024

Background

The use of medical 3D printing (focusing on anatomical modeling) has continued to grow since the Radiological Society of North America’s (RSNA) 3D Printing Special Interest Group (3DPSIG) released its initial guideline and appropriateness rating document in 2018. The 3DPSIG formed a focused writing group to provide updated appropriateness ratings for 3D printing anatomical models across a variety of congenital heart disease. Evidence-based- (where available) and expert-consensus-driven appropriateness ratings are provided for twenty-eight congenital heart lesion categories.

Methods

A structured literature search was conducted to identify all relevant articles using 3D printing technology associated with pediatric congenital heart disease indications. Each study was vetted by the authors and strength of evidence was assessed according to published appropriateness ratings.

Results

Evidence-based recommendations for when 3D printing is appropriate are provided for pediatric congenital heart lesions. Recommendations are provided in accordance with strength of evidence of publications corresponding to each cardiac clinical scenario combined with expert opinion from members of the 3DPSIG.

Conclusions

This consensus appropriateness ratings document, created by the members of the RSNA 3DPSIG, provides a reference for clinical standards of 3D printing for pediatric congenital heart disease clinical scenarios.
Arsenic treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia affects neutrophil function in a compensatory manner
Authors: Salzer Anna Thunström , Urban Constantin F.
Published: January 2024

Background

Arsenic (ATO) and retinoic acid (ATRA) are successfully used as chemotherapy-free regimens to treat acute APL. Compared to traditional chemotherapy approaches, this therapy evokes fewer haematological side effects, such as severe neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, but little is known about the impact of the treatment on neutrophil function.

Methods

We included three patients undergoing consolidation treatment for APL. To evaluate the functionality of neutrophils, we assessed chemotaxis, ROS production, and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) release during different time points of the treatment and compared them with neutrophils from healthy donors.

Results

We revealed that the chemotactic ability of neutrophils isolated from APL patients was decreased before starting each cycle of treatment. However, there was an increase in chemotactic ability in the first week of treatment compared to other time points. Additionally, we observed increased ROS production at the start of the treatment cycle. In vitro exposure of isolated neutrophils from healthy donors to ATO led to decreased chemotaxis at high ATO concentrations exceeding those achieved in vivo, while ROS production was not affected. Chemotaxis and ROS production were not altered by exposure to ATRA in vitro and neither ATO nor ATRA had an effect on neutrophils’ ability to release NETs.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that ATO and ATRA therapy alter neutrophil function by increasing chemotaxis and reducing ROS production. The effect on neutrophil function does not, however, seem to impact infection susceptibility in our patients, indicating that the enhanced functionality might compensate for the lowered neutrophil count.
Public knowledge of risk factors and warning signs of heart attack and stroke
Authors: Pallangyo Pedro , Mkojera Zabella S. , Komba Makrina , Mfanga Loveness , Kamtoi Saad , Mmari Janeth , Faraji Husna Y. , Bhalia Smita V. , Mayala Henry A. , Matemu Genofeva , Nkinda Anna , Kifai Engerasiya , Kisenge Peter R.
Published: January 2024

Background

Knowledge of the predisposing risk factors and prompt recognition of the warning signs for heart attack and stroke is fundamental in modification of lifestyle behaviors and an imperative precursor to health-seeking behavior. In view of an existing knowledge gap amidst increasing incidence of heart attack and stroke in Tanzania, we conducted this community-based cross-sectional study among residents of Dar es Salaam city.

Results

A total of 1759 respondents were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 45.4 years, females constituted over a half of participants and over two-thirds had attained at least secondary school education. Regarding risk factors, just over 2% of participants displayed satisfactory awareness and only stress was recognized by at least half of participants. With regard to warning signs, barely 1% of participants had satisfactory knowledge for either of the conditions while nearly three-quarters of participants failed to mention even a single warning sign for heart attack. Recognized by about two-thirds of respondents, sudden numbness or weakness in face, arm or leg was the most acknowledged stroke symptom; however, other symptoms were familiar to less than a third of participants. Although over a half of respondents acknowledged going to a hospital as their first resort, over one-tenth of respondents expressed inappropriate reactions towards heart attack and stroke victims. Old age, higher level of education, positive history of heart attack or stroke, high blood pressure and history of dyslipidemia showed association with both risk factors and warning signs knowledge during bivariate analyses.

Conclusions

Public knowledge of common risk factors and typical warning signs for heart attack and stroke was critically suboptimal. These findings herald an utmost need for public health efforts to increase community awareness of risk factors and typical signs of the two conditions to curb the rising prevalence and associated morbimortality.
Genetic polymorphism of WNT9A is functionally associated with thumb osteoarthritis in the Chinese population
Authors: Dai Jian , Jiang Haitao , Cheng Zhang , Li Yao , Yang Zhaoqi , Cheng Chuan , Tang Xiaoming
Published: January 2024

Background

In a recent genome-wide association study, novel genetic variations of WNT9A were reported to be involved in the etiopathogenesis of thumb osteoarthritis (TOA) in Caucasians. Our purposes were to replicate the association of WNT9A with the development of TOA in the Chinese population and to further unveil the functional role of the risk variants.

Methods

SNP rs11588850 of WNT9A were genotyped in 953 TOA patients and 1124 healthy controls. The differences of genotype and allele distributions between the patients and healthy controls were evaluated using the Chi-square test. Luciferase Reporter Assay was performed to investigate the influence of variant on the gene expression.

Results

There was significantly lower frequency of genotype AA in TOA patients than in the controls 74.9% vs. 81.9%, p < 0.001). The frequency of allele A was remarkably lower in the patients than in the controls (86.3% vs. 90.5%, p < 0.001), with an odds ratio of 0.66 (95% CI = 0.54–0.80). Luciferase Reporter Assay showed that the construct containing mutant allele G of rs11588850 displayed 29.1% higher enhancer activity than the wild allele A construct (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Allele G of rs11588850 was associated with the increased risk of TOA possibly via up-regulation of WNT9A expression. Further functional analysis into the regulatory role of rs11588850 in WNT9A expression can shed new light on the genetic architecture of TOA.
Genetics of biochemical attributes regulating morpho-physiology of upland cotton under high temperature conditions
Authors: Majeed Sajid , Chaudhary Muhammad Tanees , Mubarik Muhammad Salman , Rana Iqrar Ahmad , Shaban Muhammad , Tan Daniel KY , Jia Yinhua , Du Xiongming , Hinze Lori , Azhar Muhammad Tehseen
Published: January 2024

Background

Cotton is a strategically important fibre crop for global textile industry. It profoundly impacts several countries' industrial and agricultural sectors. Sustainable cotton production is continuously threatened by the unpredictable changes in climate, specifically high temperatures. Breeding heat-tolerant, high-yielding cotton cultivars with wide adaptability to be grown in the regions with rising temperatures is one of the primary objectives of modern cotton breeding programmes. Therefore, the main objective of the current study is to figure out the effective breeding approach to imparting heat tolerance as well as the judicious utilization of commercially significant and stress-tolerant attributes in cotton breeding. Initially, the two most notable heat-susceptible (FH-115 and NIAB Kiran) and tolerant (IUB-13 and GH-Mubarak) cotton cultivars were spotted to develop filial and backcross populations to accomplish the preceding study objectives. The heat tolerant cultivars were screened on the basis of various morphological (seed cotton yield per plant, ginning turnout percentage), physiological (pollen viability, cell membrane thermostability) and biochemical (peroxidase activity, proline content, hydrogen peroxide content) parameters.

Results

The results clearly exhibited that heat stress consequently had a detrimental impact on every studied plant trait, as revealed by the ability of crossing and their backcross populations to tolerate high temperatures. However, when considering overall yield, biochemical, and physiological traits, the IUB-13 × FH-115 cross went over particularly well at both normal and high temperature conditions. Moreover, overall seed cotton yield per plant exhibited a positive correlation with both pollen viability and antioxidant levels (POD activity and proline content).

Conclusions

Selection from segregation population and criteria involving pollen viability and antioxidant levels concluded to be an effective strategy for the screening of heat-tolerant cotton germplasms. Therefore, understanding acquired from this study can assist breeders identifying traits that should be prioritized in order to develop climate resilient cotton cultivars.
The health and economic burden of dust pollution in the textile industry of Faisalabad, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Muhammad , Muhmood Kashif , Mahmood Hafiz Zahid , Khaliq Imran Hameed , Zaman Shakila
Published: January 2024

Background

Exposure to dust in textile mills adversely affects workers’ health. We collected epidemiological data on textile workers suffering from respiratory diseases and assessed work absence associated with illnesses in Faisalabad, Pakistan.

Methods

We recruited 206 workers using multistage sampling from 11 spinning mills in Faisalabad, Pakistan. The data were collected using 2-week health diaries and face-to-face interviews. The data pertains to socio-demographics, occupational exposures, the state of the workers’ health, and other attributes. A theoretical framework of the health production function was used to estimate the relationship between cotton dust exposure and respiratory illnesses. We also estimated functional limitations (e.g., work absence) associated with dust exposure. STATA 12 was used to calculate descriptive statistics, an ordered probit for byssinosis, a probit model for chronic cough, and three complementary log-log models for blood phlegm, bronchitis, and asthma to measure dose–response functions. A Tobit model was used to measure the sickness absence function.

Results

We found that cotton dust exposure causes a significant health burden to workers, such as cough (35%), bronchitis (17%), and different grades of byssinosis symptoms (22%). The regression analysis showed that smoking cigarettes and working in dusty sections were the main determinants of respiratory diseases. Dusty work sections also cause illness-related work absences. However, the probability of work absence decreases with the increased use of face masks.

Conclusion

The study’s findings imply the significance of promoting occupational safety and health culture through training and awareness among workers or implementing the use of safety gadgets. Promulgating appropriate dust standards in textile mills is also a need of the hour.
Evaluation of the effects of curcumin on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with a bio-computational approach
Authors: Maboudian Mohammad , Amjad Elham , Asnaashari Solmaz , Dastmalchi Siavoush , Sokouti Babak , Javadzadeh Yousef
Published: January 2024

Background

According to the increasing trend of COPD, the timely diagnosis and treatment of the disease can reduce the high costs to the health systems. Therefore, by biological calculation methods, signaling pathways and genes involved in this disease can be obtained and used to design drugs and other treatment methods. By using biological calculations, we determined that curcumin can affect this disease and its genes and signaling pathways. Our goal in this study was to find the genes by which curcumin exerts its effect and can maintain the function of corticosteroids against oxidizing agents.

Results

By finding the genes, it is possible to find precisely the pathways by which curcumin works, which can be used to design other drugs that cause these pathways and minimize their side effects. This study considers healthy samples (with/without curcumin) and oxygen-free radicals (with/without curcumin). Finally, statistical algorithms extract meaningful genes as effective biomarkers to investigate curcumin's effects and signaling pathways in COPD. The results show that the genes finally obtained as the most critical genes confirmed by the literature are effective in COPD. Finally, curcumin was input in SwissTargetPrediction to identify potential protein receptors. We used LigPlot+ software to visualize the receptor–ligand binding result provided by iGEMDOCK.

Conclusions

The data showed that the most significant genes in each group have been confirmed in other studies to be effective in this disease, and protein–protein interaction networks can be established between them to investigate their roles.