bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose Dependent Effects of Aqueous Extract of Garcinia cambogia Desr. Against Letrozole Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Female Adult Rats With Possible Mechanisms Exploration
Authors: Rana Saba , Hussain Liaqat , Saleem Uzma , Asif Muhammad , Lodhi Arslan H. , Barkat Muhammad Q. , Riaz Muhammad , Jamil Alina
Published: April 2023

Background

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine metabolic disorder of women.

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the potential of aqueous extract of Garcinia cambogia Desr. (AEGC) in PCOS.

Methodology

The HPLC was used to determine the phytoconstituents present in Garcinia cambogia. Thirty adult female albino rats were divided into 6 groups: Normal control (NC) disease Control (PCOS; letrozole 1 mg/kg), plant extract (AEGC 100, 300, 500 mg/kg) and standard (metformin; 20 mg/kg). Disease was confirmed by vaginal smear cytology. After 10 weeks, animals were euthanized, ovaries dissected for histopathology, blood collected for hormonal and biochemical analysis.

Results

HPLC analysis showed the presence of phenolic contents; chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, coumaric acid while flavonoid contents were quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin. After treatment, there was dose dependent reduction of weight, ovarian cysts, improvement of follicle growth. DPPH radical scavenging percentage was 67.89%. Hormonal analysis showed a significant improvement ( P < .05) in follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen, and progesterone while a reduction in testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH) and insulin level. Antioxidant enzymatic markers were significantly ( P < .05) increased. Lipid profile and LFTs were also improved.

Conclusions

The study validated the potential of Garcinia cambogia in the management of PCOS.
An unusual anatomical variant: A transclival artery supplying the vertebrobasilar circulation
Authors: Raz Eytan , Nayak Gopi , Sharashidze Vera , Nossek Erez , Malak Wassim , Bueno Hugo , Komiyama Masaki , Nelson Peter Kim , Shapiro Maksim
Published: April 2023

The persistent carotid-vertebrobasilar anastomoses are arterial communications between the anterior and posterior circulations due to the persistence of embryological connections. We here present an extremely rare instance of a transclival persistent carotid-vertebrobasilar anastomosis in a 10-month-old infant, which does not fit into any of the traditionally described categories, such as the trigeminal artery, hypoglossal artery, or proatlantal artery.
Vibration characteristics analysis of rolling bearing rotor system considering radial clearance and outer raceway defect
Authors: Chen Runlin , Liu Jiaxin , Tang Jie , Han Qin , Zhang Yanchao , Cui Yahui
Published: April 2023

Because of the radial clearance, the radial stiffness of rolling bearing will show obvious time-varying characteristics, which may cause a certain vibration. The small defects on the raceway of the rolling bearing maybe caused by the vibration under the poor lubrication conditions. A dynamic model of rolling bearing rotor system considering the radial clearance and outer raceway defect is established in this paper. The time-varying stiffness of rolling bearing is fitted by 8-order Fourier series and substituted into the dynamic model. The vibration response of rotor system is obtained to analyze the fault characteristic frequency of rolling bearing. The vibration test of rolling bearing rotor system is carried out, and the fault characteristic frequency of the test bearing is identified by analyzing the frequency spectrum of the obtained vibration signal. The test results are in good agreement with the theoretical values, which verifies the correctness of the dynamic model.
“My body is a cage”: A qualitative investigation into the self-discrepancy experiences of young women with metastatic cancer
Authors: Kahraman-Erkus Ozlem , Ar-Karci Yagmur , Gençöz Tülin
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The current study investigated self-discrepancy experiences of young women with metastatic cancer.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted. Data were analyzed through interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Findings

Eight female patients with metastatic cancer aged between 27 and 38 years formed the sample. Three superordinate themes emerged: (1) compulsory changes in self-concept with ambivalent evaluations; (2) new ideals not on the agenda of a healthy young woman; and (3) so-called ‘minimalist’ expectations from others.

Discussion

Findings indicated that diagnosis and treatment of metastatic cancer impose unique developmental challenges for young adult women. Advanced cancer disrupted the tasks and responsibilities of young adulthood, resulting in frustration, grief, isolation, and overcompensation. These findings suggest that a developmental perspective is crucial when working with self-discrepancy experiences of young women with metastatic cancer.
“It's the ideology, stupid!”: Trust in the press, ideological proximity between citizens and journalists and political parallelism. A comparative approach in 17 countries
Authors: Curini Luigi , Garusi Diego , Splendore Sergio
Published: April 2023

Matching national surveys with the dataset offered by the Worlds of Journalism Study network (2012–2016), this article presents an analysis of trust in the press covering 16 European countries and the United States. Drawing from the spatial proximity model of voter utility, this article focuses on the ideological proximity between journalists’ and citizens’ left-right positions as a determinant of trust in the press. We expect a positive relationship between these two variables. However, we also hypothesize that the strength of such relationship is mediated by the type of media model (according to Hallin and Mancini's classification) existing in the different countries. In particular, we expect a higher impact within those contexts where the level of political parallelism is higher. The statistical results are as expected. This article highlights that news media trust research should focus more thoroughly on the interaction and interrelation of news media, audience, and politics. The article brings also implications about the concept of political parallelism in journalism and how it is received by readers.
Bourdieusian Boundary-Making, Social Networks, and Capital Conversion: Inequality among International Degree Holders in Hong Kong
Authors: Au Anson
Published: April 2023

Sociological research richly documents the many ways through which education becomes a form of convertible capital, but focuses less on the cultural schemas that graduates possess and use to respond to disruptions of capital conversion processes. Using the case of international degree holders in Hong Kong, this article draws upon Bourdieu’s theory of practice to interrogate the cultural schemas that valorize international degrees when their conversion pathways to economic capital are subjectively perceived to weaken. This article unearths the role of social networks in embedding cultural schemas and their effects on relations within the field: when faced with diminishing economic returns, international degree holders hold fast to their schemas vis-à-vis fellow international graduates and reconceptualize their degrees as symbolic capital to cope with the loss by enacting symbolic violence against domestic degree holders. Class boundaries are ultimately entrenched when international degree graduates valorize their cultural capital gains and legitimate their economic capital losses. Doing so compromises their class interests by forcing themselves into an interstitial position between different fields: though they occupy dominating homologous positions in the cultural field, they choose to overlook their dominated homologous positions in the economic field.
Stress shielding of the proximal humerus in stemless anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Rankin Iain A , Goffin Joaquim , Khan L A Kash , Cairns David , Barker Scott L , Kumar Kapil
Published: April 2023

Background

This study aimed to assess the radiographic proximal humerus bony adaptations to stress shielding and associated clinical outcomes following stemless total shoulder arthroplasty.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent stemless total shoulder arthroplasty surgery at our centre from 2010 to 2020 was performed.

Results

In total, 115 stemless total shoulder arthroplasty utilising a single implant design with a minimum one-year follow-up were identified over a 10-year period. The median follow-up was 3.5 years (range: 1–8.9 years). Evidence of stress shielding was observed in 20 cases (17%), (9 mild (8%), 0 moderate (0%), 11 severe (9%). No significant differences were seen between stress shielding and gender, body mass index, post-operative range-of-motion, patient satisfaction, or Oxford shoulder score. No significant differences were seen between the operative technique and stress shielding. No cases had evidence of humeral lucency. In total, 24 cases (21%) had evidence of glenoid lucency of Lazarus grade 0–3. No cases had Lazarus grades 4 or 5. There was no association between stress shielding and humeral lucency, glenoid lucency, or revision procedure.

Discussion

Stress shielding in this study occurred at lower rates than anticipated following stemless total shoulder arthroplasty and was not associated with radiographic evidence of lucency, revision procedures, or adverse effect on clinical outcome measures.
Intralesional cidofovir for the management of refractory cutaneous verrucae: a review of applications and opportunities
Authors: Lau William C. , Lau Charles B. , Frangos Jason E. , Nambudiri Vinod E.
Published: April 2023

Viral warts – manifestations of cutaneous infection by human papilloma virus – can be a significant physical and emotional burden for patients when common treatments fail, particularly for individuals who are immunocompromised or with multiple lesions. Cidofovir, an antiviral agent typically used for the treatment of cytomegalovirus infection, has emerged as an alternative treatment option for viral warts when administered topically or intralesionally. In this review, we highlight the scientific rationale, published evidence, and practical clinical uses of intralesional cidofovir for the management of cutaneous warts as well as ongoing questions requiring further research and exploration of this emerging therapy for refractory verrucae.
Law and Justice and its allies: Clientelistic links in Poland after 2015
Authors: Sula Piotr , Błaszczyński Kamil , Madej Małgorzata
Published: April 2023

Linkages between political parties and society have been considered weak from the very beginning of the political transformation in Central and Eastern Europe, including in Poland. One result has been the employment of clientelistic strategies by political parties across the region. Clientelism in Polish politics has been present for three decades, however, the way it manifests itself today varies significantly from how it appeared in the past in terms of its scale but also because it has “thickened” by incorporating Catholic, national, and patriotic symbols. Furthermore, the number of contracting parties is not limited to the patron (PiS) and their clients (voters); a crucial role seems to be played by the organisations supported financially by the PiS government whose task may be to entice citizens to vote for the party. It can be argued that the financial standing of these organisations was built with support from the state budget and that their operations are highly dependent on these resources. We conclude that PiS has created a clientelistic machine formed by populist, nationalist, and religious ideological discourses.
Application and performance of disease activity indices proposed for patients with systemic sclerosis in an international cohort of patients with juvenile systemic sclerosis
Authors: Klotsche Jens , Torok Kathryn S , Kasapcopur Ozgur , Adrovic Amra , Terreri Maria Teresa , Sakamoto Ana Paula , Katsicas Maria , Sztajnbok Flavio , Marrani Edoardo , Sifuentes-Giraldo Alberto , Stanevicha Valda , Anton Jordi , Feldmann Brian , Kostik Mikhail , Nemcova Dana , Santos Maria Jose , Appenzeller Simone , Avcin Tadej , Battagliotti Cristina , Berntson Lillemor , Bica Blanca , Brunner Jürgen , Eleftheriou Despina , Harel Liora , Horneff Gerd , Kallinich Tilmann , Minden Kirsten , Nielsen Susan , Patwardhan Anjali , Helmus Nicola , Foeldvari Ivan
Published: April 2023

Objectives:

Juvenile systemic sclerosis is a rare childhood disease. Three disease activity indices have been published for adult patients with systemic sclerosis: the European Scleroderma Study Group Index, a modified version of the European Scleroderma Study Group Index and the revised European Scleroderma Trials and Research index. The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility and performance of the three disease activity indices in a prospectively followed cohort of patients with juvenile systemic sclerosis.

Methods:

The analysis cohort was selected from the prospective international inception cohort enrolling juvenile systemic sclerosis patients. The correlation of the disease activity indices with the physicians’ and the patients’ global assessment of disease activity was determined. The disease activity indices were compared between patients with active and inactive disease. Sensitivity to change between 6- and 12-month follow-up was investigated by mixed models.

Results:

Eighty percent of the 70 patients had a diffuse cutaneous subtype. The revised European Scleroderma Trials and Research index was highly correlated with the physician-reported global disease activity/parents-reported global disease activity (r = 0.74/0.64), followed by the European Scleroderma Study Group activity index (r = 0.61/0.55) and the modified version of the European Scleroderma Study Group activity index (r = 0.51/0.43). The disease activity indices significantly differed between active and inactive patients. The disease activity indices showed sensitivity to change between 6- and 12-month follow-up among patients who improved or worsened according to the physician-reported global disease activity and the parents-reported global disease activity.

Conclusion:

Overall, no disease activity score is superior to the other, and all three scores have limitations in the application in juvenile systemic sclerosis patients. Furthermore, research on the concept of disease activity and suitable scores to measure disease activity in patients with juvenile systemic sclerosis is necessary in future.
Why Psychosocial Care Matters: Parent Preparedness and Understanding Predict Psychosocial Function When Children Return to School After Cancer
Authors: Thornton Clifton P. , Semerjian Claire , Carey Lisa B. , Milla Kimberly , Ruble Kathy , Paré-Blagoev Juliana , Jacobson Lisa A.
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Psychosocial impacts of cancer are well-recognized for pediatric patients but few studies examine challenges specific to schooling after diagnosis and caregiver-related factors that may influence coping. This study describes caregiver experiences of school-related psychosocial functioning and how caregiver preparedness and understanding of these challenges influence coping. Methods: Caregivers of 175 childhood cancer survivors completed a nationally disseminated survey related to caregiver preparedness, clinician-provided education, and school-related experiences. Caregiver-reported preparedness and understanding were evaluated as predictors of psychosocial coping; factor analysis was performed to identify compound scales of preparedness and understanding. Results: Caregivers reported that the cancer treatment experience resulted in their children being more stressed and anxious about returning to school (60.2% and 70.2%, respectively) and more sensitive to peers (73.4%). It also made it harder for them to socialize and fit in with peers (58.2% and 49.7%, respectively). Caregiver preparedness and understanding predicted improved psychosocial coping with regard to child stress regarding socialization, fitting in, and anxiety but not sensitivity to peers. Teacher supportiveness and caregiver perception of clinician understanding also correlated with function. Discussion: Findings highlight the importance of caregiver education and preparedness as these reliably predict child psychosocial function and coping as they return to school after a cancer diagnosis and that all children are at risk for psychosocial challenges following a cancer diagnosis. Opportunities exist for clinicians to provide more education and anticipatory guidance to families as a potential means to reduce poor coping when a child returns to school following cancer.
Relationships Between Parental Anxiety and Child Quality of Life in Advanced Childhood Cancer
Authors: Cowfer Brittany A. , Dietrich Mary S. , Akard Terrah Foster , Gilmer Mary Jo
Published: April 2023

Background: Family factors, such as household income and parental psychosocial distress, have been associated with quality of life in children with cancer. However, relationships between parent anxiety and child health-related quality of life (HRQoL) have not been evaluated in children with advanced cancer. Objective: To examine relationships between parent anxiety and both parent-reported and child self-reported HRQoL for children with advanced cancer. Method: Children (aged 5–17 years) with relapsed or refractory cancer and their parents participated in this single-institution cross-sectional study. Parents completed measures of their own baseline anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory–Trait [STAI-T] form) and their ill child's HRQoL (PedsQL Generic and PedsQL Cancer, parent report). Children completed age-specific PedsQL Generic and PedsQL Cancer, child report. Spearman's rho coefficients assessed correlations between total parent STAI-T score and both parent-reported and child-reported HRQoL scales. Results: Twenty children ( Mage = 9.5 years, 50% female) and their 20 parents (90% mothers) participated. The strongest and statistically significant ( p < .05) correlations were inverse associations between parental trait anxiety and parent-reported child psychosocial HRQoL ( rs = −.54), emotional functioning ( rs = −.49), school functioning ( rs = −.45), and child pain and hurt ( rs = −.45). Correlations of parental anxiety with all dimensions of child-reported HRQoL were generally smaller ( rs < .40), positive, and not statistically significant ( p > .05). Discussion: Given the inverse correlations between parental anxiety and child psychosocial HRQoL, assessment of parent mental health needs and access to interventions should be provided routinely for parents of children with advanced cancer.
Nurses’ Perceptions of the Impact of a National Educational Program in Pediatric Oncology Nursing: A Cross-Sectional Evaluation
Authors: Sandeberg Margareta af , Olsson Maria , Ek Torben , Enskär Karin , Stenmarker Margaretha , Pergert Pernilla
Published: April 2023

Background: Specific knowledge is required in pediatric oncology, and specialization of nurses has been identified as a priority. In Sweden, a national program in pediatric oncology nursing has been offered since 2003. The aim of this study was to gain knowledge of nurses’ perceptions of the impact of this educational program. Methods: Eighty nurses who had completed the educational program in three cohorts (2012–2019) were invited to participate in this cross-sectional survey. An electronic study-specific questionnaire containing multiple-choice questions was used. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation tests. Results: Fifty-nine (74%) nurses completed the survey, of whom 98% responded that they would recommend the program to a large/fairly large extent. At the time of the survey, 15 (25%) participants had left pediatric oncology care. Among the remaining 44, 31 (71%) of the nurses were working bedside, and 13 (42%) of these combined this with a special position (e.g., consultant nurse). The education resulted in career advancement, as the number of nurses with special positions increased following completion of the program, from 20% to 59%. The vast majority stated that the knowledge gained from the education contributed to increased confidence in interactions with the children/families. Discussion: Continuing education of nurses in pediatric oncology has an impact on career opportunities in clinical practice and contributes to nurses’ confidence and professional work. However, education is not enough to retain competent nurses. Employers need to be aware of the role of the work environment, aspects of work–life balance and career paths.
Effect of Food Security on Health in Developing Countries
Authors: Subramaniam Yogeeswari , Loganathan Nanthakumar , Tang Chor Foon
Published: April 2023

This study examines the impact of food security on health outcomes in 56 developing countries from 2011 to 2019, using a comprehensive measure of food security. Applying generalized methods of moments, the results provide supportive evidence that food security influences health in a positive way. The existence of positive effects suggests that food availability (i.e., more supply), accessibility (i.e., higher income), utilization (i.e., healthy foods), and stability (i.e., more certainty in production) for livelihoods sustain life and promote good health. As a result, this study justifies the need for governments to provide equal support to all four dimensions of food security to promote better nutrition and health.
European Headache Federation (EHF) critical re-appraisal and meta-analysis of oral drugs in migraine prevention—part 1: amitriptyline
Authors: Lampl Christian , Versijpt Jan , Amin Faisal Mohammad , Deligianni Christina I. , Gil-Gouveia Raquel , Jassal Tanvir , MaassenVanDenBrink Antoinette , Ornello Raffaele , Paungarttner Jakob , Sanchez-del-Rio Margarita , Reuter Uwe , Uluduz Derya , de Vries Tessa , Zeraatkar Dena , Sacco Simona
Published: April 2023

Objective

The aim of this paper is to critically re-appraise the published trials assessing amitriptyline for migraine prophylaxis.

Methods

We report our methods and results following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA), by searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized trials of pharmacologic treatments for migraine prophylaxis. We included randomized trials that compared amitriptyline with placebo for migraine prophylaxis in adults. Our outcomes of interest were informed by the Outcome Set for preventive intervention trials in chronic and episodic migraine (COSMIG) and include the proportion of patients who experience a 50% or more reduction in migraine days per month, migraine days per month, and adverse events leading to discontinuation.

We assessed risk of bias by using a modified Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool and the certainty of evidence by using the GRADE approach.

Results

Our search yielded 10.826 unique records, of which three trials (n = 622) were eligible for data synthesis and analysis. We found moderate certainty evidence that amitriptyline increases the proportion of patients who experience a 50% or more reduction in monthly migraine days, compared to placebo (relative risk: 1.60 (95% CI 1.17 to 2.19); absolute risk difference: 165 more per 1,000 (95% CI 47 more to 327 more). We found moderate certainty evidence that amitriptyline increases the proportion of patients who discontinue due to adverse events compared to placebo (risk difference: 0.05 (95% CI 0.01 to 0.10); absolute risk difference: 50 more per 1,000 (95% CI 10 more to 100 more).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis showed that amitriptyline may have a prophylactic role in migraine patients, however these results are far from robust. This warrants further large-scale research to evaluate the role of amitriptyline in migraine prevention.
Maternal patterns of inheritance alter transcript expression in eggs
Authors: Harry Nathan D. , Zakas Christina
Published: April 2023

Background

Modifications to early development can lead to evolutionary diversification. The early stages of development are under maternal control, as mothers produce eggs loaded with nutrients, proteins and mRNAs that direct early embryogenesis. Maternally provided mRNAs are the only expressed genes in initial stages of development and are tightly regulated. Differences in maternal mRNA provisioning could lead to phenotypic changes in embryogenesis and ultimately evolutionary changes in development. However, the extent that maternal mRNA expression in eggs can vary is unknown for most developmental models. Here, we use a species with dimorphic development— where females make eggs and larvae of different sizes and life-history modes—to investigate the extent of variation in maternal mRNA provisioning to the egg.

Results

We find that there is significant variation in gene expression across eggs of different development modes, and that there are both qualitative and quantitative differences in mRNA expression. We separate parental effects from allelic effects, and find that both mechanisms contribute to mRNA expression differences. We also find that offspring of intraspecific crosses differentially provision their eggs based on the parental cross direction (a parental effect), which has not been previously demonstrated in reproductive traits like oogenesis.

Conclusion

We find that maternally controlled initiation of development is functionally distinct between eggs of different sizes and maternal genotypes. Both allele-specific effects and parent-of-origin effects contribute to gene expression differences in eggs. The latter indicates an intergenerational effect where a parent’s genotype can affect gene expression in an egg made by the next generation.
Application of Moringa leaves as soil amendment to tiger-nut for suppressing weeds in the Nigerian Savanna
Authors: Fadeyi Olasupo James , Fabunmi Thomas Oladeji , Soretire Adeniyi Adebowale , Olowe Victor Idowu Olugbenga , Raphael Adeyemi Olusegun
Published: April 2023

Background

The allelopathic effect of Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) leaves applied as organic manure in tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) production on associated weeds was investigated in the guinea savanna of South West Nigeria, during the 2014 (September - November) and 2015 (June - August) wet seasons.

Methods

Five Moringa leaves rates (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 t/ha) and three tuber sizes (0.28 g, 0.49 g and 0.88 g dry weight) were laid out in the main plot and sub-plot, respectively in a split-plot arrangement fitted into randomized complete block design and replicated three times.

Results

Parameters measured, which include, weed cover score (WCS), weed density (WD) and weed dry matter production (WDMP) were significantly (p<0.05) influenced in both years by Moringa leaf. In 2015, WCS, WD and WDMP significantly (p<0.05) reduced by 25–73%, 35–78% and 26–70% on Moringa leaves-treated plots respectively. There were significant (p<0.05) interactions between quantity of Moringa leaves incorporated and tuber size. The bigger the tuber and the higher the quantity of Moringa leaves incorporated the lower the WCS, WD and WDMP.

Conclusions

Consequently, application of 10 t.ha− 1 Moringa leaves and planting of large or medium-sized tubers were recommended for optimum weed suppression in tiger nut production in South West Nigeria.
The climate changes promoted the chloroplast genomic evolution of Dendrobium orchids among multiple photosynthetic pathways
Authors: Xue Qiqian , Yang Jiapeng , Yu Wenhui , Wang Hongman , Hou Zhenyu , Li Chao , Xue Qingyun , Liu Wei , Ding Xiaoyu , Niu Zhitao
Published: April 2023

Dendrobium orchids have multiple photosynthetic pathways, which can be used as a model system for studying the evolution of crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). In this study, based on the results of the net photosynthetic rates (Pn), we classified Dendrobium species into three photosynthetic pathways, then employed and compared their chloroplast genomes. The Dendrobium chloroplast genomes have typical quartile structures, ranging from 150,841–153,038 bp. The apparent differences in GC content, sequence variability, and IR junctions of SSC/IRB junctions (JSBs) were measured within chloroplast genomes among different photosynthetic pathways. The phylogenetic analysis has revealed multiple independent CAM origins among the selected Dendrobium species. After counting insertions and deletions (InDels), we found that the occurrence rates and distribution densities among different photosynthetic pathways were inconsistent. Moreover, the evolution patterns of chloroplast genes in Dendrobium among three photosynthetic pathways were also diversified. Considering the diversified genome structure variations and the evolution patterns of protein-coding genes among Dendrobium species, we proposed that the evolution of the chloroplast genomes was disproportional among different photosynthetic pathways. Furthermore, climatic correlation revealed that temperature and precipitation have influenced the distribution among different photosynthetic pathways and promoted the foundation of CAM pathway in Dendrobium orchids. Based on our study, we provided not only new insights into the CAM evolution of Dendrobium but also provided beneficial genetic data resources for the further systematical study of Dendrobium.
The establishment of transient expression systems and their application for gene function analysis of flavonoid biosynthesis in Carthamus tinctorius L
Authors: Xian Bin , Xi Ziqing , Ren Chaoxiang , Yan Jie , Chen Jiang , Pei Jin
Published: April 2023

Background

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an important economic crop and a traditional medicinal material rich in flavonoids, which can alleviate cardiovascular and cerebrovascular pathologies. Thus, many candidate genes involved in safflower flavonoid biosynthesis have been cloned. However, owing to the lack of a homologous gene expression system, research on gene function is limited to model plants. Therefore, a gene function identification protocol for safflower must be established.

Results

In the present study, using safflower callus as the experimental material, Agrobacterium and biolistic transient expression systems were established. In the Agrobacterium transient expression system, the highest transformation rate was obtained at the original Agrobacterium concentration of OD600 0.4, infiltration concentration of OD600 0.6, infection for 20 min, co-culture for 3 days, and acetosyringone concentration of 100 μmol·L−1. In the biolistic transient expression system, the highest transformation efficiency was observed at helium pressure of 1,350 psi, vacuum degree of -0.8 bar, flight distance of 6.5 cm, one round of bombardment, plasmid concentration of 3 μg·shot−1, and gold particle concentration of 100 μg·shot−1. Further, these two transient expression systems were used for the functional analysis of CtCHS1 as an example. After overexpression, relative CtCHS1 expression increased, particularly in Agrobacterium-transformed calli. Additionally, the contents of some flavonoids were altered; for instance, naringenin and genistein levels were significantly increased in Agrobacterium-transformed calli, whereas luteolin, luteolin-7-O-rutinoside, and apigenin derivative levels were significantly decreased in biolistic-transformed calli.

Conclusion

Using safflower callus as the experimental material, highly efficient Agrobacterium and biolistic transient expression systems were successfully established, and the utility of both systems for investigating gene function was demonstrated. The proposed safflower callus transient expression systems will be useful for further functional analyses of flavonoid biosynthetic genes in safflower.
Successful treatment of a severe Takotsubo syndrome case complicated by liver abscess
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Yue , Sun Jin-Jin , Wang Jun-Hua , Wang Peng , Liu Bai-Mei , Xing Jun-Hua , Liu Jun , Zhang Da-Peng , Kong Zhen-Zhen , Zhang Hai-Tao , Yu Xin-Ya
Published: April 2023

The main manifestations of Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) are a spherical expansion of the left ventricle or near the apex and decreased systolic function. TTS is mostly thought to be induced by emotional stress, and the induction of TTS by severe infection is not often reported. A 72-year-old female patient with liver abscess reported herein was admitted due to repeated fever with a history of hypertension and impaired glucose tolerance. Her severe infection caused TTS, and her blood pressure dropped to 80/40 mmHg. IABP treatment was performed immediately and continued for 10 days, and comprehensive medication was administered. Based on her disease course and her smooth recovery, general insights and learnings may be: Adding to mental and other pathological stress reaction, serious infections from pathogenic microorganism could be of great important causation of stress reaction leading to TTS, while basic diseases such as coronary heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes were be of promoting factors; In addition to effective drug therapies for TTS, the importance of the timely using of IABP should be emphasized.
Exploring different research questions via complex multi-state models when using registry-based repeated prescriptions of antidepressants in women with breast cancer and a matched population comparison group
Authors: Skourlis Nikolaos , Crowther Michael J. , Andersson Therese M‑L. , Lu Donghao , Lambe Mats , Lambert Paul C.
Published: April 2023

Background

Multi-state models are used to study several clinically meaningful research questions. Depending on the research question of interest and the information contained in the data, different multi-state structures and modelling choices can be applied. We aim to explore different research questions using a series of multi-state models of increasing complexity when studying repeated prescriptions data, while also evaluating different modelling choices.

Methods

We develop a series of research questions regarding the probability of being under antidepressant medication across time using multi-state models, among Swedish women diagnosed with breast cancer (n = 18,313) and an age-matched population comparison group of cancer-free women (n = 92,454) using a register-based database (Breast Cancer Data Base Sweden 2.0). Research questions were formulated ranging from simple to more composite ones. Depending on the research question, multi-state models were built with structures ranging from simpler ones, like single-event survival analysis and competing risks, up to complex bidirectional and recurrent multi-state structures that take into account the recurring start and stop of medication. We also investigate modelling choices, such as choosing a time-scale for the transition rates and borrowing information across transitions.

Results

Each structure has its own utility and answers a specific research question. However, the more complex structures (bidirectional, recurrent) enable accounting for the intermittent nature of prescribed medication data. These structures deliver estimates of the probability of being under medication and total time spent under medication over the follow-up period. Sensitivity analyses over different definitions of the medication cycle and different choices of timescale when modelling the transition intensity rates show that the estimates of total probabilities of being in a medication cycle over follow-up derived from the complex structures are quite stable.

Conclusions

Each research question requires the definition of an appropriate multi-state structure, with more composite ones requiring such an increase in the complexity of the multi-state structure. When a research question is related with an outcome of interest that repeatedly changes over time, such as the medication status based on prescribed medication, the use of novel multi-state models of adequate complexity coupled with sensible modelling choices can successfully address composite, more realistic research questions.
Family doctors’ roles and perceptions on antibiotic consumption and antibiotic resistance in Romania: a qualitative study
Authors: Ghiga Ioana , Pitchforth Emma , Stålsby Lundborg Cecilia , Machowska Anna
Published: April 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health issue, bringing significant health burden and costs to societies. Increased antibiotic consumption (ABC) is linked to AMR emergence. Some of the known drivers of ABC are antibiotics over-prescription by physicians and their misuse by patients. Family doctors are recognised as important stakeholders in the control of ABC as they prescribe antibiotics and are considered a reliable source of medical information by patients. Therefore, it is important to explore their perceptions, especially in Romania, which has the highest ABC among European Union Member States. Furthermore, there is no published research exploring Romanian family doctors’ perceptions regarding this phenomenon.

Methods

This was a qualitative study with data collection via semi-structured interviews among 12 family doctors. Manifest and latent content analysis was used to gain an in-depth understanding of their perceptions. Findings were mapped onto the domains of the Behaviour Change Wheel to facilitate a theory driven systematization and analysis.

Results

Two main subthemes emerged: i) factors affecting ABC and prescribing and ii) potential interventions to tackle ABC and antibiotic resistance. The factors were further grouped in those that related to the perceived behaviour of family doctors or patients as well as those that had to do with the various systems, local contexts and the COVID-19 pandemic. An overarching theme: ‘family doctors in Romania see their role differently when it comes to antibiotic resistance and perceive the lack of patient education or awareness as one of the major drivers of ABC’ was articulated. The main findings suggested that the perceived factors span across the capability, opportunity and motivational domains of the behaviour change wheel and could be addressed through a variety of interventions – some identified by the participants. Findings can also be viewed through cultural lenses which shed further light on the family doctor- patient dynamic when it comes to antibiotics use.

Conclusion

Potential interventions to tackle identified factors emerged, revolving mostly on efforts to educate patients or the public. This exploratory research provides key perspectives and facilitates further research on potential interventions to successfully address AMR in Romania or similar settings.
Risk factors of pneumonia in persons with and without Alzheimer’s disease: a matched cohort study
Authors: Järvinen Heli , Tolppanen Anna-Maija , Hartikainen Sirpa
Published: April 2023

Background

Pneumonia is a very common infection in the cognitively impaired adult population, often leading to long-term deterioration, in physical and cognitive performance. Evidence is lacking on whether chronic comorbidities and drug use are risk factors for pneumonia in persons with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The objective of this study was to investigate the risk factors of pneumonia in community dwellers with and without AD.

Methods

We performed a retrospective register-based study utilizing the Medication Use and Alzheimer’s disease (MEDALZ) cohort, which is based on Finnish nationwide healthcare registers and includes all community dwellers who received a verified clinical diagnosis of AD between 2005 to 2011. This study comprised 69,350 persons with AD and 69,350 persons without AD matched by age, gender, and region of residence. Association between comorbidities, drug use, and hospitalization due to pneumonia were assessed using Cox Regression.

Results

During the follow-up, 25.0% (n = 17,105) of the AD cohort and 15.8% (n = 10,966) of the non-AD cohort were hospitalized due to pneumonia. Persons with AD had a higher risk of pneumonia also after adjusting for comorbidities (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.71–1.80). Previous pneumonia was the strongest risk factor for pneumonia in both cohorts. All comorbidities and drug use excluding biological product use were associated with a higher risk of pneumonia, but stronger associations were observed in the non-AD cohort. The risk of hospitalization following psychotropic drug use was proportional to the number of psychotropics utilized.

Conclusions

Pneumonia is a serious, potentially life-threatening illness, and risk factors for pneumonia include several potentially avoidable drugs. In addition, good care of existing comorbidities might prevent pneumonia and related hospitalization.
Non-convulsive status epilepticus possibly induced by a rapid correction of severe hyperkalemia: a case report and literature review
Authors: Bussaka Saki , Suehiro Takaichi , Mitsuiki Koji , Morioka Takato , Shono Tadahisa , Fujiki Fujio , Nakano Toshiaki
Published: April 2023

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease frequently develop neurological complications including confusion and altered consciousness. Non-convulsive status epilepticus, which is characterized by a change in behavior and/or mental process accompanied by epileptiform discharges on electroencephalogram in the absence of convulsive seizures, is one of the overlooked causes of altered consciousness. The incidence and precise pathophysiological mechanism of non-convulsive status epilepticus in patients with kidney disease, and especially in patients with electrolyte disturbances, remains unknown. We recently treated an older patient with chronic kidney disease and severe hyperkalemia in whom non-convulsive status epilepticus developed following a correction of severe hyperkalemia.

Case presentation

An 82-year-old male was admitted to our hospital at midnight because of weakness of all four limbs (Day 1). He underwent urgent hemodialysis for severe hyperkalemia (9.84 mEq/L) and his serum potassium concentration decreased to 4.97 mEq/L. He regained full consciousness and his limb weakness improved on the morning of Day 2, but he became confused in the evening. Electroencephalogram revealed repeated low-voltage ictal discharges in the right occipital region and a diagnosis of non-convulsive status epilepticus was made. Following medication with fosphenytoin and phenytoin, the patient became fully alert and orientated on Day 8.

Conclusion

We speculate that a rapid correction of hyperkalemia was the possible cause of non-convulsive status epilepticus development. To our knowledge, this is the first report of non-convulsive status epilepticus from a potassium abnormality. We described a case of this condition in detail and summarized 78 previous case reports of non-convulsive status epilepticus with kidney disease or electrolyte disturbances.
Assessment of the treating physicians’ first-hand experience with handling and satisfaction of ofatumumab therapy: findings from the PERITIA survey conducted in Europe
Authors: Rau Daniela , Eichau Sara , Borriello Giovanna , Cerqueira João , Wagner Carola
Published: April 2023

Background

Real-world evidence on experience and satisfaction of ofatumumab as a treatment option for relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) is limited.

Objective

To present cumulative responses from a questionnaire related to first-hand experience of treating physicians on handling and convenience of ofatumumab therapy along with concerns related to COVID-19.

Methods

PERITIA was a multicentre survey conducted to collect responses from the ASCLEPIOS I/II trial investigators from Europe via an online questionnaire.

Results

Forty-six physicians (Germany,n = 14; Spain,n = 12; Portugal,n = 10; Italy,n = 10) completed the survey. Overall, 43% of the physicians considered the benefit-risk ratio of ofatumumab as very good. Over 93% were in favour of ofatumumab self-administration at home and the majority (83%) believed it to be completely true that self-administration of ofatumumab eases the burden for patients in terms of time. All investigators would like to potentially use anti-CD20 therapy as a long-term strategy. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, physicians were in favour of a self-administration of MS therapy at home over other anti-CD20 therapy infusions.

Conclusion

European neurologists who were part of this survey considered the benefit-risk-ratio of ofatumumab as favourable and the monthly self-administered subcutaneous injections offering convenience for patients in the clinical practice.
High TXNIP expression accelerates the migration and invasion of the GDM placenta trophoblast
Authors: Sa Rina , Ma Jing , Yang Jie , Li Dong Fang , Du Jie , Jia Jian Chao , Li Zhi Ying , Huang Na , A Lamusi , Sha Rula , Nai Gal , Hexig Bayar , Meng Ji Qing , Yu Lan
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Our previous study has proofed the glucose sensitive gene-thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) expression was up in the placenta of the patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), but the pathological mechanisms underlying abnormal TXNIP expression in the placenta of patients with GDM is completely unclear and additional investigations are required to explain the findings we have observed. In the present study, we simulated the high TXNIP expression via introducing the Tet-On “switch” in vitro, approximate to its expression level in the real world, to explore the following consequence of the abnormal TXNIP.

Methods

The expression and localization of TXNIP in the placenta of GDM patients and the health control was investigated via immunofluorescent staining, western blot and RT-qPCR. Overexpression of TXNIP was achieved through transfecting Tet-on system to the human trophoblastic cell line-HTR-8/Svneo cell. TXNIP knockout was obtained via CRISPR-Cas9 method. The cell phenotype was observed via IncuCyte Imaging System and flow cytometry. The mechanism was explored via western blot and RT-qPCR.

Results

The expression level of TXNIP in the GDM placenta was nearly 2–3 times higher than that in the control. The TXNIP located at trophoblastic cells of the placenta. When the expression of TXNIP was upregulated, the migration and invasion of the cells accelerated, but cell apoptosis and proliferation did not changed compared with the control group. Furthermore, the size of the TetTXNIP cells became larger, and the expression level of Vimentin and p-STAT3 increased in the TetTXNIP cells. All the changes mentioned above were opposite in the TXNIP-KO cells.

Conclusions

Abnormal expression of TXNIP might be related to the impairment of the GDM placental function, affecting the migration and invasion of the placental trophoblast cells through STAT3 and Vimentin related pathway; thus, TXNIP might be the potential therapeutic target for repairing the placental dysfunction deficient in GDM patients.