bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Clinical Incivility Management Module for Nursing Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Kim Younglee , Kim Sook Young , Hong Eunhee , Brandt Cheryl
Published: October 2023

Background: Incivility experienced by pre-licensure nursing students in clinical settings continues to grow. Interventions for clinical incivility to nursing students are needed. Our study aimed to examine the effects of a piloted two-hour interactive incivility management module on nursing students’ perceived stress and general self-efficacy levels and preparedness for responding professionally to clinical incivility. Methods: A quasi-experimental post-test-only non-equivalent comparison design with control and experimental groups was used. Senior nursing students enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from a nursing college located in Seoul, South Korea, were recruited. The control group (n = 94) completed a self-administered online survey without the clinical incivility management module. The experimental group (n = 93) completed the same survey after receiving the clinical incivility management module. The two groups’ survey data were compared; qualitative data from the experimental group’s post-module debriefing session were also analyzed. Results: The prevalence of reported clinical incivility was 72.73% (n = 137 out of 187 participants). Clinical incivility experienced by the experimental group was significantly lower than that of the control group (z = −4.865, p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in stress levels and self-efficacy between the two groups. The mean score of the experimental group on preparedness for responding professionally to clinical incivility was statistically higher than the control group’s mean score (z = −2.850, p = 0.004). Conclusions: Interventions to prepare students for the experience of clinical incivility are useful; they can positively affect the students’ ability to respond professionally.
Genetic Diversity Analysis of Onion (Allium cepa L.) from the Arid Region of Tunisia Using Phenotypic Traits and SSR Markers
Authors: Chalbi Amel , Chikh-Rouhou Hela , Mezghani Najla , Slim Amine , Fayos Oreto , Bel-Kadhi Mohamed Sadok , Garcés-Claver Ana
Published: October 2023

The present study was carried out to evaluate and characterize, for the first time, the genetic potential of a collection of onion (Allium cepa L.) local accessions from the arid region of southern Tunisia. The genetic diversity among 135 onion individuals, belonging to 23 accessions, was evaluated using microsatellite (SSR) markers and phenotypic information. A total of 35 alleles were generated with 11 SSRs. The polymorphic information content (PIC) value ranged from 0.08 to 0.95, with an average PIC of 0.43. The expected heterozygosity averaged 0.37, and the observed heterozygosity averaged 0.42. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed that 79% of genetic variation existed within individuals. Structure and cluster analysis grouped the accessions into two major clusters: landraces and pre-breeding lines. For the phenotypic traits evaluated, field trials were conducted in two different environments. Significant differences among accessions were shown, and for most traits, there was also a significant environmental effect and a significant interaction between environment and accession. Great variability was found for all the traits that could be exploited to create new varieties of onion adapted to local conditions by selecting appropriate parents in hybridization breeding.
Knowledge and Attitudes towards HIV and HCV among the Population Attending the Fast-Track Cities Mobile Unit in Brescia, Italy
Authors: Viola Francesca , Formenti Beatrice , Arsuffi Stefania , Polesini Itala , Focà Emanuele , Castelli Francesco , Quiros-Roldan Eugenia
Published: October 2023

The Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department of the University of Brescia organized free rapid screening tests for HIV and HCV as part of the Fast-Track City commitment. A cross-sectional study was conducted, consisting of an anonymous multiple-choice questionnaire that was administered to individuals who underwent the screening or consultation. The study aimed to compare knowledge and attitudes towards HIV and HCV between age groups (18–40 vs. >40) and sexual orientations (heterosexual vs. LGBTQ+). Overall, 333 questionnaires were completed. Overall, only 107 (32%) of respondents knew how HIV is transmitted. Major differences were shown between different age groups, where people under the age of 40 had a significantly higher correct response rate than people over 40 (n = 101; 39% versus n = 6; 7.8%, p < 0.00001). Similarly, almost half of LGBTQI+ people (n = 28; 44.4%) gave the correct answer, versus 30% (n = 79) of heterosexuals (p = 0.0359). Only 9.6% of the population demonstrated high levels of knowledge for both HIV and HCV. Our study highlights that misconceptions about HIV and HCV should be addressed in prevention and education programs, whose target should also be specific populations.
Nutritional Considerations for Bladder Storage Conditions in Adult Females
Authors: Gordon Barbara
Published: October 2023

Background: Clinical guidelines developed by urologic, urogynecologic, and gynecologic associations around the globe include recommendations on nutrition-related lifestyle and behavioral change for bladder storage conditions. This study identified and compared clinical guidelines on three urological conditions (interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), overactive bladder, and stress urinary incontinence) affecting adult women. Methods: A three-step process was employed to identify the guidelines. Next, a quality assessment of the guidelines was conducted employing the Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) International tool. (3) Results: Twenty-two clinical guidelines, prepared by seventeen groups spanning four continents, met the inclusion criteria. The AGREE II analyses revealed that most of the guideline development processes complied with best practices. The most extensive nutrition recommendations were for women with IC/BPS. Dietary manipulation for the other two storage LUTS primarily focused on the restriction or limitation of specific beverages and/or optimal fluid intake. (4) Conclusion: Clinical guidelines for IC/BPS, overactive bladder, and stress urinary incontinence include nutrition recommendations; however, the extent of dietary manipulation varied by condition. The need to ensure that clinicians are informing patients of the limitations of the evidence supporting those recommendations emerged. Furthermore, given the need to treat nutrition-related comorbid conditions as a strategy to help mitigate these three urological disorders, the value of referral to a dietitian for medical nutrition therapy is apparent.
A High-Resolution Spatial Distribution-Based Integration Machine Learning Algorithm for Urban Fire Risk Assessment: A Case Study in Chengdu, China
Authors: Hao Yulu , Li Mengdi , Wang Jianyu , Li Xiangyu , Chen Junmin
Published: October 2023

The development and functional perfection of urban areas have led to increasingly severe fire risks in recent decades. Previous urban fire risk assessment methods relied on subjective judgment, rough data collection, simple linear statistical methods, etc. These drawbacks can lead to low robustness of evaluation and inadequate generalization ability. To resolve these problems, this paper selects the indicator and regression models based on the high-resolution data of the spatial distribution characteristics of Longquanyi distinct in Chengdu, China. and proposes an integrated machine learning algorithm for fire risk assessment. Firstly, the kernel density analysis is used to map the fourteen urban characteristics related to fire risks. The contributions of these indicators (characteristics) to fire risk and its corresponding index are determined by Random Forest (RF), Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). Then, the spatial correlation of fire risks is determined through Moran’s I, and the spatial distribution pattern of indicator weights is clarified through the raster coefficient space analysis. Finally, with these selected indicators, we test the regression performance with a backpropagation neural network (BPNN) algorithm and a geographically weighted regression (GWR) model. The results indicate that numerical variables are more suitable than dummy variables for estimating micro-scale fire risks. The main factors with a high contribution are all numerical variables, including roads, gas pipelines, GDP, hazardous chemical enterprises, petrol and charging stations, cultural heritage protection units, assembly occupancies, and high-rise buildings. The machine learning algorithm integrating RF and BPNN shows the best performance (R2 = 0.97), followed by the RF-GWR integrated algorithm (R2 = 0.87). Compared with previous methods, this algorithm reduces the subjectivity of the traditional assessment models and shows the ability to automatically obtain the key indicators of urban fire risks. Hence, this new approach provides us with a more robust tool for assessing the future fire safety level in urban areas.
The Effect of Gene Editing by CRISPR-Cas9 of miR-21 and the Indirect Target MMP9 in Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Camargo Juliana A. , Viana Nayara I. , Pimenta Ruan , Guimarães Vanessa R. , dos Santos Gabriel A. , Candido Patrícia , Ghazarian Vitória , Romão Poliana , Silva Iran A. , Birbrair Alexander , Srougi Miguel , Nahas William C. , Leite Kátia R. , Trarbach Ericka B. , Reis Sabrina T.
Published: October 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) has a high prevalence and represents an important health problem, with an increased risk of metastasis. With the advance of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, new possibilities have been created for investigating PCa. The technique is effective in knockout oncogenes, reducing tumor resistance. MMP9 and miR-21 target genes are associated with PCa progression; therefore, we evaluated the MMP-9 and miR-21 targets in PCa using the CRISPR-Cas9 system. Single guide RNAs (sgRNAs) of MMP9 and miR-21 sequences were inserted into a PX-330 plasmid, and transfected in DU145 and PC-3 PCa cell lines. MMP9 and RECK expression was assessed by qPCR, WB, and IF. The miR-21 targets, integrins, BAX and mTOR, were evaluated by qPCR. Flow cytometry was performed with Annexin5, 7-AAD and Ki67 markers. Invasion assays were performed with Matrigel. The miR-21 CRISPR-Cas9-edited cells upregulated RECK, MARCKS, BTG2, and PDCD4. CDH1, ITGB3 and ITGB1 were increased in MMP9 and miR-21 CRISPR-Cas9-edited cells. Increased BAX and decreased mTOR were observed in MMP9 and miR-21 CRISPR-Cas9-edited cells. Reduced cell proliferation, increased apoptosis and low invasion in MMP9 and miR-21 edited cells was observed, compared to Scramble. CRISPR-Cas9-edited cells of miR-21 and MMP9 attenuate cell proliferation, invasion and stimulate apoptosis, impeding PCa evolution.
Pathophysiology and Treatment of Stroke: Present Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Bersano Anna , Gatti Laura
Published: October 2023

Stroke is among the most prevalent causes of disability and is the second leading cause of death worldwide in Western countries [...]
Molecular Dynamics Mappings of the CCT/TRiC Complex-Mediated Protein Folding Cycle Using Diffracted X-ray Tracking
Authors: Araki Kazutaka , Watanabe-Nakayama Takahiro , Sasaki Daisuke , Sasaki Yuji C. , Mio Kazuhiro
Published: October 2023

The CCT/TRiC complex is a type II chaperonin that undergoes ATP-driven conformational changes during its functional cycle. Structural studies have provided valuable insights into the mechanism of this process, but real-time dynamics analyses of mammalian type II chaperonins are still scarce. We used diffracted X-ray tracking (DXT) to investigate the intramolecular dynamics of the CCT complex. We focused on three surface-exposed loop regions of the CCT1 subunit: the loop regions of the equatorial domain (E domain), the E and intermediate domain (I domain) juncture near the ATP-binding region, and the apical domain (A domain). Our results showed that the CCT1 subunit predominantly displayed rotational motion, with larger mean square displacement (MSD) values for twist (χ) angles compared with tilt (θ) angles. Nucleotide binding had a significant impact on the dynamics. In the absence of nucleotides, the region between the E and I domain juncture could act as a pivotal axis, allowing for greater motion of the E domain and A domain. In the presence of nucleotides, the nucleotides could wedge into the ATP-binding region, weakening the role of the region between the E and I domain juncture as the rotational axis and causing the CCT complex to adopt a more compact structure. This led to less expanded MSD curves for the E domain and A domain compared with nucleotide-absent conditions. This change may help to stabilize the functional conformation during substrate binding. This study is the first to use DXT to probe the real-time molecular dynamics of mammalian type II chaperonins at the millisecond level. Our findings provide new insights into the complex dynamics of chaperonins and their role in the functional folding cycle.
Phosphorylation-Assisted Luciferase Complementation Assay Designed to Monitor Kinase Activity and Kinase-Domain-Mediated Protein–Protein Binding
Authors: Póti Ádám L. , Dénes Laura , Papp Kinga , Bató Csaba , Bánóczi Zoltán , Reményi Attila , Alexa Anita
Published: October 2023

Protein kinases are key regulators of cell signaling and have been important therapeutic targets for three decades. ATP-competitive drugs directly inhibit the activity of kinases but these enzymes work as part of complex protein networks in which protein–protein interactions (often referred to as kinase docking) may govern a more complex activation pattern. Kinase docking is indispensable for many signaling disease-relevant Ser/Thr kinases and it is mediated by a dedicated surface groove on the kinase domain which is distinct from the substrate-binding pocket. Thus, interfering with kinase docking provides an alternative strategy to control kinases. We describe activity sensors developed for p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs: ERK, p38, and JNK) whose substrate phosphorylation is known to depend on kinase-docking-groove-mediated protein–protein binding. The in vitro assays were based on fragment complementation of the NanoBit luciferase, which is facilitated upon substrate motif phosphorylation. The new phosphorylation-assisted luciferase complementation (PhALC) sensors are highly selective and the PhALC assay is a useful tool for the quantitative analysis of kinase activity or kinase docking, and even for high-throughput screening of academic compound collections.
OGR1 (GPR68) and TDAG8 (GPR65) Have Antagonistic Effects in Models of Colonic Inflammation
Authors: Perren Leonie , Busch Moana , Schuler Cordelia , Ruiz Pedro A. , Foti Federica , Weibel Nathalie , de Vallière Cheryl , Morsy Yasser , Seuwen Klaus , Hausmann Martin , Rogler Gerhard
Published: October 2023

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPRs), including pro-inflammatory ovarian cancer GPR1 (OGR1/GPR68) and anti-inflammatory T cell death-associated gene 8 (TDAG8/GPR65), are involved in pH sensing and linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). OGR1 and TDAG8 show opposite effects. To determine which effect is predominant or physiologically more relevant, we deleted both receptors in models of intestinal inflammation. Combined Ogr1 and Tdag8 deficiency was assessed in spontaneous and acute murine colitis models. Disease severity was assessed using clinical scores. Colon samples were analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and flow cytometry (FACS). In acute colitis, Ogr1-deficient mice showed significantly decreased clinical scores compared with wildtype (WT) mice, while Tdag8-deficient mice and double knockout (KO) mice presented similar scores to WT. In Il-10-spontaneous colitis, Ogr1-deficient mice presented significantly decreased, and Tdag8-deficient mice had increased inflammation. In the Il10−/− × Ogr1−/− × Tdag8−/− triple KO mice, inflammation was significantly decreased compared with Tdag8−/−. Absence of Ogr1 reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines in Tdag8-deficient mice. Tdag8−/− had significantly more IFNγ+ T-lymphocytes and IL-23 T-helper cells in the colon compared with WT. The absence of OGR1 significantly alleviates the intestinal damage mediated by the lack of functional TDAG8. Both OGR1 and TDAG8 represent potential new targets for therapeutic intervention.
Synergistic Responses of Tibetan Sheep Rumen Microbiota, Metabolites, and the Host to the Plateau Environment
Authors: Sha Yuzhu , Guo Xinyu , He Yanyu , Li Wenhao , Liu Xiu , Zhao Shengguo , Hu Jiang , Wang Jiqing , Li Shaobin , Zhao Zhidong , Hao Zhiyun
Published: October 2023

Plateau adaptation in animals involves genetic mechanisms as well as coevolutionary mechanisms of the microbiota and metabolome of the animal. Therefore, the characteristics of the rumen microbiome and metabolome, transcriptome, and serum metabolome of Tibetan sheep at different altitudes (4500 m, 3500 m, and 2500 m) were analyzed. The results showed that the rumen differential metabolites at 3500 m and 4500 m were mainly enriched in amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism, and there was a significant correlation with microbiota. The differentially expressed genes and metabolites at middle and high altitudes were coenriched in asthma, arachidonic acid metabolism, and butanoate and propanoate metabolism. In addition, the serum differential metabolites at 3500 m and 4500 m were mainly enriched in amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, and metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, and they were also related to microbiota. Further analysis revealed that rumen metabolites accounted for 7.65% of serum metabolites. These common metabolites were mainly enriched in metabolic pathways and were significantly correlated with host genes (p < 0.05). This study found that microbiota, metabolites, and epithelial genes were coenriched in pathways related to lipid metabolism, energy metabolism, and immune metabolism, which may be involved in the regulation of Tibetan sheep adaptation to plateau environmental changes.
Ni-Based Hydrotalcite (HT)-Derived Cu Catalysts for Catalytic Conversion of Bioethanol to Butanol
Authors: Xiao Yan , Li Jie , Tan Yuan , Chen Xingkun , Bai Fenghua , Luo Wenhao , Ding Yunjie
Published: October 2023

Catalytic conversion of biomass-derived ethanol into n-butanol through Guerbet coupling reaction has become one of the key reactions in biomass valorization, thus attracting significant attention recently. Herein, a series of supported Cu catalysts derived from Ni-based hydrotalcite (HT) were prepared and performed in the continuous catalytic conversion of ethanol into butanol. Among the prepared catalysts, Cu/NiAlOx shows the best performance in terms of butanol selectivity and catalyst stability, with a sustained ethanol conversion of ~35% and butanol selectivity of 25% in a time-on-stream (TOS) of 110 h at 280 °C. While for the Cu/NiFeOx and Cu/NiCoOx, obvious catalyst deactivation and/or low butanol selectivity were obtained. Extensive characterization studies of the fresh and spent catalysts, i.e., X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Hydrogen temperature-programmed reduction (H2-TPR), reveal that the catalysts’ deactivation is mainly caused by the support deconstruction during catalysis, which is highly dependent on the reducibility. Additionally, an appropriate acid–base property is pivotal for enhancing the product selectivity, which is beneficial for the key process of aldol-condensation to produce butanol.
Oleanolic Acid Complexation with Cyclodextrins Improves Its Cell Bio-Availability and Biological Activities for Cell Migration
Authors: Stelling-Férez Javier , López-Miranda Santiago , Gabaldón José Antonio , Nicolás Francisco José
Published: October 2023

Wound healing is a complex process to restore skin. Plant-derived bioactive compounds might be a source of substances for the treatment of wounds stalled in a non-resolving stage of wound healing. Oleanolic acid (OA), a pentacyclic triterpene, has shown favorable wound healing properties both in vitro and in vivo. Unfortunately, OA cannot be solubilized in aqueous media, and it needs to be helped by the use of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). In this paper, we have shown that cyclodextrins (CDs) are a good alternative to DMSO as agents to deliver OA to cells, providing better features than DMSO. Cyclodextrins are natural macromolecules that show a unique tridimensional structure that can encapsulate a wide variety of hydrophobic compounds. We have studied the cyclodextrin-encapsulated form of OA with OA/DMSO, comparing their stability, biological properties for cell migration, and cell viability. In addition, detailed parameters related to cell migration and cytoskeletal reorganization have been measured and compared. Our results show that OA-encapsulateds compound exhibit several advantages when compared to non-encapsulated OA in terms of chemical stability, migration enhancement, and preservation of cell viability.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Spike Protein S1 Induces Methylglyoxal-Derived Hydroimidazolone/Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (MG-H1/RAGE) Activation to Promote Inflammation in Human Bronchial BEAS-2B Cells
Authors: Manfredelli Dominga , Pariano Marilena , Costantini Claudio , Graziani Alessandro , Bozza Silvia , Romani Luigina , Puccetti Paolo , Talesa Vincenzo Nicola , Antognelli Cinzia
Published: October 2023

The pathogenesis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with a hyperinflammatory response. The mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation are scantly known. Methylglyoxal (MG) is a glycolysis-derived byproduct endowed with a potent glycating action, leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), the main one being MG-H1. MG-H1 exerts strong pro-inflammatory effects, frequently mediated by the receptor for AGEs (RAGE). Here, we investigated the involvement of the MG-H1/RAGE axis as a potential novel mechanism in SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation by resorting to human bronchial BEAS-2B and alveolar A549 epithelial cells, expressing different levels of the ACE2 receptor (R), exposed to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein 1 (S1). Interestingly, we found in BEAS-2B cells that do not express ACE2-R that S1 exerted a pro-inflammatory action through a novel MG-H1/RAGE-based pathway. MG-H1 levels, RAGE and IL-1β expression levels in nasopharyngeal swabs from SARS-CoV-2-positive and -negative individuals, as well as glyoxalase 1 expression, the major scavenging enzyme of MG, seem to support the results obtained in vitro. Altogether, our findings reveal a novel mechanism involved in the inflammation triggered by S1, paving the way for the study of the MG-H1/RAGE inflammatory axis in SARS-CoV-2 infection as a potential therapeutic target to mitigate COVID-19-associated pathogenic inflammation.
Preoperative Immunocyte-Derived Ratios Predict Postoperative Recovery of Gastrointestinal Motility after Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Firut Andreea , Margaritescu Dragos Nicolae , Turcu-Stiolica Adina , Bica Marius , Rotaru Ionela , Patrascu Ana-Maria , Radu Razvan Ilie , Marinescu Daniela , Patrascu Stefan , Streba Costin Teodor , Surlin Valeriu
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the role of immunocyte-derived ratios (IDRs), such as the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), as markers for the postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal function following colorectal cancer surgery. A retrospective analysis was conducted on a consecutive cohort of 260 patients who underwent radical colorectal cancer surgery within the timeframe spanning from January 2016 to December 2022. Data concerning the postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal function included the I-FEED score, time to pass flatus, toleration for liquids in the first 48 h, and the need for nasogastric tube reinsertion in the immediate postoperative period. A special emphasis was allocated towards the examination of IDRs and their interrelation with the postoperative gastrointestinal functional parameters. The I-FEED score exhibited a positive correlation with the NLR, SII, and PLR. The univariate analysis indicated that all IDRs, multiorgan resection, hemoglobin and protein levels, regional nodal extent of the tumor (N), and obesity significantly affected nasogastric tube reinsertion. The multivariate analysis showed that the SII and N1 stages were risk factors for nasogastric tube reinsertion after colorectal cancer surgery. The SII and multiorgan resection were the only classifiers that remained significant in the multivariable analysis for the toleration for liquids. In summation, certain preoperative IDRs, such as the SII, PLR, and NLR, may hold potential as predictive determinants for postoperative gastrointestinal functional recovery following colorectal cancer surgery.
Short-Term Dapagliflozin Administration in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease—A Retrospective Single-Arm Case Series Study
Authors: Morioka Fumiyuki , Nakatani Shinya , Uedono Hideki , Tsuda Akihiro , Mori Katsuhito , Emoto Masanori
Published: October 2023

Treatment with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors may have pleiotropic and beneficial effects in terms of ameliorating of risk factors for the progression of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). However, there is insufficient evidence regarding the use of these drugs in patients with ADPKD, as they were excluded from several clinical trials conducted to explore kidney protection provided by SGLT2 inhibitors. This retrospective single-arm case series study was performed to investigate the effects of dapagliflozin, a selective SGLT2 inhibitor administered at 10 mg/day, on changes in height-adjusted kidney volume (htTKV) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in ADPKD patients. During a period of 102 ± 20 days (range 70–156 days), eGFR was decreased from 47.9 (39.7–56.9) to 40.8 (33.7–44.5) mL/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.001), while htTKV was increased from 599 (423–707) to 617 (446–827) mL/m (p = 0.002) (n = 20). The annual increase in htTKV rate was significantly promoted, and urinary phosphate change was found to be correlated with the change in htTKV (rs = 0.575, p = 0.020). In the examined patients, eGFR was decreased and htTKV increased during short-term administration of dapagliflozin. To confirm the possibility of the effects of dapagliflozin on ADPKD, additional interventional studies are required.
Association between Antidepressants and Dementia Risk in Older Adults with Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Grace Hsin-Min , Li Piaopiao , Wang Yehua , Guo Jingchuan , Wilson Debbie L. , Lo-Ciganic Wei-Hsuan
Published: October 2023

Depression, commonly treated with antidepressants, is associated with an increased risk of dementia, especially in older adults. However, the association between antidepressant use and dementia risk is unclear. We searched for randomized controlled trials and observational studies from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane on 1 February 2022, restricting to full texts in English. Since dementia is a chronic disease requiring a long induction time, we restricted studies with ≥1 year follow-up. We extracted the relative risk (RR) adjusted for the most variables from each study and evaluated the heterogeneity using I square (I2). The protocol was registered in the PROSPERO International Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42022338038). We included six articles in the systematic review, of which the sample size ranged from 716 to 141,740, and the median length of follow-up was 5 years. The pooled RR was 1.21 (95% CI = 1.12–1.29) with an I2 of 71%. Our findings suggest that antidepressant use was associated with an increased risk of dementia in older adults with depression, yet moderate to high heterogeneity existed across studies. Future work accounting for the depression progression is needed to differentiate the effect of depression and antidepressants on dementia risk.
Pelvic Ring Fractures in Older Adult Patients—Assessing Physician Practice Variation among (Orthopedic) Trauma Surgeons
Authors: Mennen Anna H. M. , Oud Sharon , Halm Jens A. , Peters Rolf W. , Willems Hanna C. , Van Embden Daphne
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Pelvic fractures in older adults are a major public health problem and socioeconomic burden. The standard of care has changed over the past years, and there is limited consensus on which patients benefit from surgical fixation. There is currently no nationwide treatment protocol to guide the decision-making process. Therefore, the aim of this survey was to provide more insight into if, when, and why patients with a fragility fracture of the pelvis (FFPs) would be considered for additional imaging and surgical fixation by treating physicians. Methods: An online clinical vignette-based survey of hypothetical scenarios was sent out to all orthopedic and trauma surgeons in the Netherlands. The questionnaire comprised multiple-choice questions and radiographic images. Differences between subgroups were calculated using the X2 test or the Fisher exact test. Results: 169 surgeons responded to the survey, with varying levels of experience and working in different types of hospitals. In a patient with a simple pubic ramus fracture and ASA 2 or ASA 4, 32% and 18% of the respondents would always advise a CT scan for further analysis. In the same patients, 11% and 31% of the respondents would not advise a CT scan, respectively. When presented with three cases of increasing severity of co-morbidity (ASA) and/or increasing age and/or different clinical presentation of an FFP type 3c on a CT scan, an increasing number of respondents would not consider surgical fixation. There was significant variation in practice patterns between the respondents who do not work in a hospital performing pelvic and acetabular (P&A) fracture surgery and those who do work in a P&A referral hospital. Most respondents (77%) refer patients 1–5 times a year to an expert center for surgical fixation. Conclusion: There is currently a wide variety of clinical practices regarding the imaging and management of FFPs, which seems to be influenced by the type of hospital the patients are presented to. A regional or national evidence-based treatment protocol should be implemented to ensure a more uniform approach.
Risk Factors of Proximal Screw Breakage of Locking Plate (ZPLP®) after MIPO for Distal Femur Fractures -Analysis of Patients with Plate Removal after Bony Union-
Authors: Yoo Jehyun , Kwak Daekyung , Kim Joongil , Kwon Seungcheol , Kwon Junhyuk , Hwang Jihyo
Published: October 2023

Background: Locking a compression plate is a more favorable surgical technique than intramedullary nailing in the treatment of distal femur fractures. This study analyzed the risk factors of proximal screw breakage retrospectively, which was confirmed in the patients with plate removal after bony union. Methods: A total of 140 patients who were fixed by MIPO using ZPLP from 2009 to 2019 were identified. A total of 42 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included. The screw breakage group (12 patients) and the non-breakage group (30 patients) were compared. Results: Approximately 12 (28.6%) of 42 plate-removal patients showed proximal screw breakage. The breakage of proximal screws developed at the junction of the screw head and neck. The number of broken proximal screws averaged 1.4 (1~4). The breakage of the proximal screw even after the bony union is more frequent in older patients (p = 0.023), the dominant side (p = 0.025), the use of the cortical screw as the proximal uppermost screw (p = 0.039), and the higher plate-screw density (p = 0.048). Conclusions: Advanced age, dominant side, use of the cortical screw as the uppermost screw, and higher plate-screw density were related to proximal screw breakage. When the plate is removed after bony union or delayed union is shown in these situations, the possibility of proximal screw breakage should be kept in mind.
Bone Conduction Cervical Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials as an Alternative in Children with Middle Ear Effusion
Authors: Damien Maxime , Wiener-Vacher Sylvette R. , Reynard Pierre , Thai-Van Hung
Published: October 2023

Objective: To compare the amplitude ratio and P-wave latency of cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (c-VEMPs) for bone conduction (BC) and air conduction (AC) stimulation in children with otitis media with effusion (OME). Material and methods: This is an observational study of a cohort of 27 children and 46 ears with OME. The c-VEMP amplitude ratio and P-wave latency were compared between BC and AC in children with OME and healthy age-matched children. Results: The c-VEMP response rate in children with OME was 100% when using BC stimulation and 11% when using AC stimulation. The amplitude ratio for BC was significantly higher in the OME group than the age-matched healthy control group (p = 0.004). When focusing on ears with an AC c-VEMP response (n = 5), there was a significant difference in the amplitude ratio between the AC and BC stimulation modes, but there was no significant difference in the AC results between the OME group and the age-matched control group. Conclusions: BC stimulation allows for reliable vestibular otolith testing in children with middle ear effusion. Given the high prevalence of OME in children, clinicians should be aware that recording c-VEMPs with AC stimulation may lead to misinterpretation of otolith dysfunction in pediatric settings.
Practical Management of Biosimilar Use in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A Global Survey and an International Delphi Consensus
Authors: D’Amico Ferdinando , Solitano Virginia , Magro Fernando , Olivera Pablo A. , Halfvarson Jonas , Rubin David , Dignass Axel , Al Awadhi Sameer , Kobayashi Taku , Queiroz Natália Sousa Freitas , Calvo Marta , Kotze Paulo Gustavo , Ghosh Subrata , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Danese Silvio
Published: October 2023

As the patents for biologic originator drugs expire, biosimilars are emerging as cost-effective alternatives within healthcare systems. Addressing various challenges in the clinical management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains crucial. To shed light on physicians’ current knowledge, beliefs, practical approaches, and concerns related to biosimilar adoption—whether initiating a biosimilar, transitioning from an originator to a biosimilar, or switching between biosimilars (including multiple switches and reverse switching)—a global survey was conducted. Fifteen physicians with expertise in the field of IBD from 13 countries attended a virtual international consensus meeting to develop practical guidance regarding biosimilar adoption worldwide, considering the survey results. This consensus centered on 10 key statements covering biosimilar effectiveness, safety, indications, rationale, multiple switches, therapeutic drug monitoring of biosimilars, non-medical switching, and future perspectives. Ultimately, the consensus affirmed that biosimilars are equally effective and safe when compared to originator drugs. They are considered suitable for both biologic-naïve patients and those who have previously been treated with originator drugs, with cost reduction being the primary motivation for transitioning from an originator drug to a biosimilar.
Investigation of Cognitive Distortions in Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Özdemir İlker , Kuru Erkan
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the main cognitive distortions observed in panic disorder (PD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder (SAD) and to investigate the impact of cognitive distortions on diagnoses, depression levels, disorder type and severity of anxiety. This study consisted of 150 clinical (50 PD, 50 GAD, 50 SAD) and 91 healthy control participants. A sociodemographic data form, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (DAS), the Cognitive Distortions Scale (CDS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) scales were administered to all participants. It was found that cognitive distortions were higher in individuals with PD, GAD and SAD. The PD, SAD and GAD groups were similar for “catastrophizing”, “mindreading”, “all or nothing thinking”, “overgeneralization”, “should statements” and “emotional reasoning”. “Personalization”, “labeling” and “minimizing or disqualifying the positive” were observed at a higher severity in the SAD group compared to the PD group, and “mental filter” was observed at a higher severity in the GAD group compared to the PD group. Our findings emphasize the need to address cognitive distortions in PD, GAD and SAD treatment. The evaluation of cognitive distortions specific to anxiety disorders is significant in guiding therapy goals and pioneering new research.
Radiofrequency Echographic Multispectrometry (REMS): A New Option in the Assessment Bone Status in Adults with Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Caffarelli Carla , Al Refaie Antonella , Mondillo Caterina , Versienti Alessandro , Baldassini Leonardo , De Vita Michela , Tomai Pitinca Maria Dea , Gonnelli Stefano
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to estimate the utility of the Radiofrequency Echographic Multispectrometry (REMS) approach in the assessment of bone mineral density (BMD) in subjects with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). In 41 subjects (40.5 ± 18.7 years) with OI and in 36 healthy controls, we measured BMD at the lumbar spine (LS-BMD), femoral neck (FN-BMD) and total hip (TH-BMD), employing a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry tool. Additionally, REMS scans were also performed at the lumbar and femoral sites. The presence and number of reported fractures were assessed in the study population. Patients characterized by a history of fragility fractures represented 84.5% of the study population. OI subjects showed significantly reduced BMD values both at the level of the lumbar spine and the femoral subregions (p < 0.01) compared to healthy controls when performed using both the DXA and the REMS method. Dividing OI patients on the basis of the Sillence classification, no differences were found between the LS-BMD values carried out using the DXA technique between the OI type I group and OI Type III and IV groups. On the contrary, the OI Type III and IV groups presented significantly lower values of both Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) and LS-BMD through REMS with respect to OI type I patients (p < 0.05). Based on the data of this study, it is possible to conclude that even the new REMS assessment, which does not use ionizing radiation, represents an excellent method for studying the bone status in subjects affected by OI.
Myocardial Remodeling in Early Chronic Kidney Disease—Mineral and Bone Disorder Model with Low Bone Turnover
Authors: Bogdanova Evdokia , Sadykov Airat , Ivanova Galina , Zubina Irina , Beresneva Olga , Galkina Olga , Parastaeva Marina , Sharoyko Vladimir , Dobronravov Vladimir
Published: October 2023

Chronic kidney disease—mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) plays a significant role in causing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality related to CKD. CKD-MBD has been studied during advanced stages when changes in inorganic phosphate (Pi) and its hormonal regulation are obvious. The initial phases of myocardial remodeling (MR) in early CKD-MBD remain poorly understood. We induced mild CKD-MBD in spontaneously hypertensive rats using 3/4 nephrectomy. Animals were fed standard chow, containing 0.6% phosphate. In each animal, we analyzed indices of chronic kidney injury, bone turnover and Pi exchange, and assessed the myocardial histology and gene expression profile. Applied CKD-MBD models corresponded to human CKD S1-2 with low bone turnover and without an increase in systemic Pi-regulating factors (parathyroid hormone and fibroblast growth factor 23). In mild CKD-MBD models, we found MR features characterized by cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, interstitial and perivascular fibrosis, intramyocardial artery media thickening, along with alterations in Ppp3ca, Mapk1, Jag1, Hes1, Ptch1, Numb, Lgr4 and Bmp4 genes. Among other genes, the down-regulation of Jag1 was most tightly associated with either myocardial hypertrophy or fibrosis. Myocardial alterations concurrently occurred with mild CKD-MBD and comprised fibrosis preceding cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. The histological features of MR were associated with myocardial P accumulation in settings of low bone turnover, prior to a response of systemic Pi-regulating factors and with alterations in calcineurin, ERK1/2, Notch, BMP and Hedgehog genes.
Micro-Segregation of Ethnic Minorities in Rome: Highlighting Specificities of National Groups in Micro-Segregated Areas
Authors: Crisci Massimiliano , Santurro Michele
Published: October 2023

This paper aims to study ethnic micro-segregation in Rome, namely, high residential concentrations of ethnic groups at the micro-area level within neighbourhoods with low concentrations of these groups, with a focus on specific situations of spatial inequality often overlooked in the debate. The Italian capital is one of the five most populous cities in the European Union and a multi-ethnic metropolis with relatively low levels of segregation. It is an urban context that has been little studied, partly due to the lack of reliable and granular data. This work is based on unpublished individual data from the 2020 population register, disaggregated into 155 neighbourhoods and 13,656 census tracts with average populations of about 18,000 and 200 residents, respectively. The five minority groups considered, Bangladeshis, Chinese, Filipinos, Romanians, and migrants from developed economy countries (DECs), add up to 55% of the total foreign residents and show different settlement patterns. The concept of micro-segregated area (MSA) is central to the scope of the analysis. An MSA is a census tract that shows a strong over-representation of a specific ethnic group despite being located within a neighbourhood where that group is under-represented. MSAs can be considered ‘interstitial’ micro-areas embedded in ethnically diverse neighbourhoods. Descriptive analysis based on location quotient (LQ) mapping and bivariate logistic models is developed to highlight (a) differences in the settlement patterns of minority ethnic groups; (b) differences in the micro-segregation of minority ethnic groups in terms of socio-demographic characteristics, settlement location, and socioeconomic status; and (c) the particular characteristics of minority ethnic groups underlying these differences. The findings indicate that differences in settlement patterns can be related to the interplay between real estate constraints and labour market specialisation. National specificities in micro-segregation are mainly linked to length of stay, but the models of the Asian groups do not offer any empirical support for the spatial assimilation hypothesis, unlike those of Romanians and DECs citizens. Further development of this research will aim to explore segregation patterns and motivations to move to MSAs using a mixed method approach.
Accuracy of Astigmatism Calculation with the Barrett, Panacea, and enVista Toric Calculators
Authors: Espinosa Soto Astrid Lucero , Ceja Martínez Jimena , Gulias-Cañizo Rosario , Guerrero-Berger Oscar
Published: October 2023

Purpose: To evaluate residual refractive astigmatism using the Panacea and enVista toric calculators, compared to the gold-standard Barrett toric calculator. Design: A retrospective and comparative study was conducted in one center. Methods: We reviewed the medical records of all patients with a diagnosis of senile cataracts and regular corneal astigmatism, without previous corneal or intraocular surgery, who underwent phacoemulsification with implantation of a toric intraocular lens, who had pre- and postoperative corneal topography, biometry, and refraction measurements. Results: The frequency of preoperative astigmatism according to the axis was 70 (84%) eyes showing with-the-rule (WTR) astigmatism, 9 (14%) eyes with against-the-rule (ATR) astigmatism, and 1 (2%) eye with oblique astigmatism. Regarding astigmatism prediction errors, there were statistically significant differences between the enVista and Panacea calculators (median of 0.39, 0.18, and 0.52 for Barrett, enVista, and Panacea, respectively). The residual astigmatism prediction error centroid was similar for the Barrett and enVista toric calculators, and both were lower compared to the Panacea calculator (x-component p < 0.001). Conclusions: The enVista toric calculator incorporating the Emmetropia Verifying Optical (EVO) toric calculator provides similar results to the gold-standard Barrett calculator.
Characterisation of the Contact between Cross-Country Skis and Snow: On the Multi-Scale Interaction between Ski Geometry and Ski-Base Texture
Authors: Kalliorinne Kalle , Hindér Gustav , Sandberg Joakim , Larsson Roland , Holmberg Hans-Christer , Almqvist Andreas
Published: October 2023

In elite endurance sports, marginal differences in finishing times drive ongoing equipment improvement to enhance athlete performance. In cross-country skiing, researchers, since the 1930s, have faced the challenge of minimising the resistance caused by friction in the contact between skis and snow. This study was designed to evaluate the multi-scale interaction between the macro-scale ski-camber profile and the micro-scale ski-base texture. Considerations included real contact area, average interfacial separation, and total reciprocal interfacial separation between the ski and snow, which are properties that are intimately coupled to ski–snow friction. We found that both the profile of the ski camber and the texture of the ski base play decisive roles in determining viscous friction. At the same time, the texture of the ski base exerts a greater impact on the average real contact pressure, real contact area, and minimal average interfacial separation between the ski and snow than the ski-camber profile.