bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelial c-Myc knockout disrupts metabolic homeostasis and triggers the development of obesity
Authors: Machi Jacqueline F. , Altilio Isabella , Qi Yue , Morales Alejo A. , Silvestre Diego H. , Hernandez Diana R. , Da Costa-Santos Nicolas , Santana Aline G. , Neghabi Mehrnoosh , Nategh Parisa , Castro Thiago L. , Werneck-de-Castro João P. , Ranji Mahsa , Evangelista Fabiana S. , Vazquez-Padron Roberto I. , Bernal-Mizrachi Ernesto , Rodrigues Claudia O.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Obesity is a major risk factor associated with multiple pathological conditions including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Endothelial dysfunction is an early predictor of obesity. However, little is known regarding how early endothelial changes trigger obesity. In the present work we report a novel endothelial-mediated mechanism essential for regulation of metabolic homeostasis, driven by c-Myc.

Methods: We used conditional knockout (EC-Myc KO) and overexpression (EC-Myc OE) mouse models to investigate the endothelial-specific role of c-Myc in metabolic homeostasis during aging and high-fat diet exposure. Body weight and metabolic parameters were collected over time and tissue samples collected at endpoint for biochemical, pathology and RNA-sequencing analysis. Animals exposed to high-fat diet were also evaluated for cardiac dysfunction.

Results: In the present study we demonstrate that EC-Myc KO triggers endothelial dysfunction, which precedes progressive increase in body weight during aging, under normal dietary conditions. At endpoint, EC-Myc KO animals showed significant increase in white adipose tissue mass relative to control littermates, which was associated with sex-specific changes in whole body metabolism and increase in systemic leptin. Overexpression of endothelial c-Myc attenuated diet-induced obesity and visceral fat accumulation and prevented the development of glucose intolerance and cardiac dysfunction. Transcriptome analysis of skeletal muscle suggests that the protective effects promoted by endothelial c-Myc overexpression are associated with the expression of genes known to increase weight loss, energy expenditure and glucose tolerance.

Conclusion: Our results show a novel important role for endothelial c-Myc in regulating metabolic homeostasis and suggests its potential targeting in preventing obesity and associated complications such as diabetes type-2 and cardiovascular dysfunction.
The RNA chaperone Hfq has a multifaceted role in Edwardsiella ictaluri
Authors: Akgul Ali , Kalindamar Safak , Kordon Adef O. , Abdelhamed Hossam , Ibrahim Iman , Tekedar Hasan C. , Karsi Attila
Published: July 2024

Edwardsiella ictaluri is a Gram-negative, facultative intracellular bacterium that causes enteric septicemia in catfish (ESC). The RNA chaperone Hfq (host factor for phage Qβ replication) facilitates gene regulation via small RNAs (sRNAs) in various pathogenic bacteria. Despite its significance in other bacterial species, the role of hfq in E. ictaluri remains unexplored. This study aimed to elucidate the role of hfq in E. ictaluri by creating an hfq mutant (EiΔhfq) through in-frame gene deletion and characterization. Our findings revealed that the Hfq protein is highly conserved within the genus Edwardsiella. The deletion of hfq resulted in a significantly reduced growth rate during the late exponential phase. Additionally, EiΔhfq displayed a diminished capacity for biofilm formation and exhibited increased motility. Under acidic and oxidative stress conditions, EiΔhfq demonstrated impaired growth, and we observed elevated hfq expression when subjected to in vitro and in vivo stress conditions. EiΔhfq exhibited reduced survival within catfish peritoneal macrophages, although it had no discernible effect on the adherence and invasion of epithelial cells. The infection model revealed that hfq is needed for bacterial persistence in catfish, and its absence caused significant virulence attenuation in catfish. Finally, the EiΔhfq vaccination completely protected catfish against subsequent EiWT infection. In summary, these results underscore the pivotal role of hfq in E. ictaluri, affecting its growth, motility, biofilm formation, stress response, and virulence in macrophages and within catfish host.
Scandinavian trade unions’ guidelines regarding nurses’ use of social media: a Fairclough-inspired critical discourse analysis
Authors: Glasdam Stinne , Xu Hongxuan , Gulestø Ragnhild Julante Andersen , Glasdam Selma , Stjernswärd Sigrid
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Social media provides nurses with tools to share information, debate healthcare policy and practice issues, and engage in interpersonal interactions. Historically, also in Scandinavia, nurses’ trade unions have taken the lead in defining nursing as a profession and supporting nurses in ‘conducting good nursing’. However, it is unexplored how trade unions guide nurses in social media use.

Aim

To explore the explicitly formulated guidance documents provided by Scandinavian nurses’ trade unions, specifically focusing on how the trade unions guided nurses’ social media use.

Materials and methods

Trade union guidelines for social media use were searched on the Scandinavian nurses’ organisations’ websites. A textual discourse analysis inspired by Fairclough’s critical approach was conducted. The analysis considered three levels: the social practice level, focusing on connections between the texts and the surrounding society; the discursive practice level, focusing on the processes of production and distribution of the texts; and the textual level, capturing how grammatical formulations and single words work in the (re) construction of social structures.

Results

At the social practice level, the trade union documents guiding nurses’ social media uses were embedded in platfomised public communication, laws about confidentiality and data protection, and ethical codes for nurses. At the discursive practice level, the guidelines were constructed to support nurses’ social media uses in adhering to their profession’s ethical principles. The trade unions’ implicit and explicit representations of nurses blurred the distinction between nurses as professionals and nurses as private persons. At the textual level, the guidelines tapped into the potential risks of using social media and how nurses ought to act on social media. Unlike the Danish and Swedish trade unions, the Norwegian trade union did not develop specific guidelines for nurses’ social media use.

Conclusion

The guidelines emphasized risks stemming from social media use that did not adhere to the profession’s politically defined guidelines, norms, and values, although nurses’ conditions are already framed by the national legislations and ethical standards. The study advocates for the development of guidelines that support beneficial uses of social media in relation to nurses and the nursing profession.
Evaluation of sustainability in university tutoring programs for educational leadership: a case study
Authors: Villarrubia Zúñiga María Soledad , Ortiz-Jiménez Macarena , González García Paula , Suárez-Campos Laura
Published: July 2024

University tutoring programs should aim to create a conducive environment for promoting pedagogical practices that align with the principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). However, it has been observed that teachers often face difficulties when implementing ESD in tutoring sessions, such as lack of time, students’ reluctance to share personal issues, and insufficient training and resources. This research is part of a larger project that aims to study university tutoring as a pedagogical tool to identify problems affecting students’ learning processes and provide solutions to improve the quality of teaching. As participatory and dialogical models are most appropriate for promoting ESD, a well-developed tutoring model will contribute to the creation of useful pedagogical practices to guide and improve the status quo of students. Through an exploratory-descriptive study, this paper compares two university tutoring programs in Spain and Morocco to identify the most frequent issues hindering educational leadership and sustainable development, which can impact academic success.
Case report: A challenging case of severe Cushing’s syndrome in the course of metastatic thymic neuroendocrine carcinoma with a synchronous adrenal tumor
Authors: Dzialach Lukasz , Wojciechowska-Luzniak Agnieszka , Maksymowicz Maria , Witek Przemysław
Published: July 2024

Ectopic ACTH syndrome (EAS) remains one of the most demanding diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for endocrinologists. Thymic neuroendocrine tumors account for 5%–10% of all EAS cases. We report a unique case of a 31-year-old woman with severe EAS caused by primary metastatic combined large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and atypical carcinoid of the thymus. The patient presented with severe hypercortisolemia, which was successfully controlled with continuous etomidate infusion. Complex imaging initially failed to detect thymic lesion; however, it revealed a large, inhomogeneous, metabolically active left adrenal mass infiltrating the diaphragm, suspected of primary disease origin. The patient underwent unilateral adrenalectomy, which resulted in hypercortisolemia resolve. The pathology report showed an adenoma with adrenal infarction and necrosis. The thymic tumor was eventually revealed a few weeks later on follow-up imaging studies. Due to local invasion and rapid progression, only partial resection of the thymic tumor was possible, and the patient was started on radio- and chemotherapy.
Spatial distribution and source apportionment of soil heavy metals in the areas affected by non-ferrous metal slag field in southwest China
Authors: Jia Liang , Liang Huili , Fan Min , Guo Shushu , Yue Tingting , Wang Maosheng , Su Mingyue , Chen Shu , Wang Zhe , Fu Kaibin
Published: July 2024

The spatial distribution and source analysis of heavy metals in soil are of great significance for the risk assessment and control of heavy metal pollution. Herein, a total of 87 topsoil samples (0–30 cm) were collected in the areas adjacent to a non-ferrous metal slag field of Gejiu City, Yunnan Province. The typical heavy metal concentrations, available phosphorus, available potassium, ammonium nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, and pH in each soil sample were determined. Based on the above basic data, distribution and origins of heavy metals was analyzed. The results indicated that the mean contents of Pb, As, Cu, Zn, Ni and Cr in the topsoil of the study site were 247.82, 204.36, 104.83, 411.38, 29.73 and 67.59 mg kg-1, respectively. Exception of the Ni element, the contents of the remaining five heavy metals surpassed their respective background levels in study site. Especially, As element (with the highest accumulation effect) is 11.1l times of the background level, and the remaining four elements are 1.04–6.10 times of the background level in Yunnan. Single factor pollution index showed that the pollution degree of Pb, Cu and Zn was light, and the accumulation of As was a great threat to soil quality. Furthermore, the percentages of sites at mild pollution, moderate pollution and heavy pollution levels were 16.09%, 26.09% and 63.22%, respectively. Additionally, The order of potential ecological hazard degree of soil in the survey area was As > Pb > Cu = Ni > Zn = Cr. The spatial dispersion of heavy metals within the study region is impacted by both natural phenomena and human activities. The areas with severe pollution were the mining area in the northwest and planting sites in the east, middle and south of the study area. The main contribution sources of Ni were the mixed sources of natural parent material and industrial activities. The heavy metal element largely contributed by industrial activities and transportation is Pb. The main sources of metals As, Cu and Zn are the integrated sources of agricultural and industrial activities. The main source of Cr is natural source. Therefore, these useful results can guide the heavy metal pollution control and restoration of study site and this research work can also be used to other similar metal slag field and its affected area.
Bibliometric analysis of kinship analysis from 1960 to 2023: global trends and development
Authors: Liu Yanchen , Sun Chaoran , Si Haoyuan , Peng Zixuan , Gu Liya , Guo Xiangnan , Song Feng
Published: July 2024

Kinship analysis is a crucial aspect of forensic genetics. This study analyzed 1,222 publications on kinship analysis from 1960 to 2023 using bibliometric analysis techniques, investigating the annual publication and citation patterns, most productive countries, organizations, authors and journals, most cited documents and co-occurrence of keywords. The initial publication in this field occurred in 1960. Since 2007, there has been a significant increase in publications, with over 30 published annually except for 2010. China had the most publications (n = 213, 17.43%), followed by the United States (n = 175, 14.32%) and Germany (n = 89, 7.28%). The United States also had the highest citation count. Sichuan University in China has the largest number of published articles. The University of Leipzig and the University of Cologne in Germany exhibit the highest total citation count and average citation, respectively. Budowle B was the most prolific author and Kayser M was the most cited author. In terms of publications, Forensic Science International-Genetics, Forensic Science International, and International Journal of Legal Medicine were the most prolific journals. Among them, Forensic Science International-Genetics boasted the highest h-index, citation count, and average citation rate. The most frequently cited publication was “Van Oven M, 2009, Hum Mutat”, with a total of 1,361 citations. The most frequent co-occurrence keyword included “DNA”, “Loci”, “Paternity testing”, “Population”, “Markers”, and “Identification”, with recent interest focusing on “Kinship analysis”, “SNP” and “Inference”. The current research is centered around microhaplotypes, forensic genetic genealogy, and massively parallel sequencing. The field advanced with new DNA analysis methods, tools, and genetic markers. Collaborative research among nations, organizations, and authors benefits idea exchange, problem-solving efficiency, and high-quality results.
β-glucan: a potent adjuvant in immunotherapy for digestive tract tumors
Authors: Wang Meiyu , Pan Jinhua , Xiang Wu , You Zilong , Zhang Yue , Wang Junyu , Zhang Anren
Published: July 2024

The immunotherapy for gastrointestinal tumors, as a significant research direction in the field of oncology treatment in recent years, has garnered extensive attention due to its potential therapeutic efficacy and promising clinical application prospects. Recent advances in immunotherapy notwithstanding, challenges persist, such as side effects, the complexity of the tumor immune microenvironment, variable patient responses, and drug resistance. Consequently, there is a pressing need to explore novel adjunctive therapeutic modalities. β-glucan, an immunomodulatory agent, has exhibited promising anti-tumor efficacy in preclinical studies involving colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and gastric cancer, while also mitigating the adverse reactions associated with chemotherapy and enhancing patients’ quality of life. However, further clinical and fundamental research is warranted to comprehensively evaluate its therapeutic potential and underlying biological mechanisms. In the future, β-glucan holds promise as an adjunctive treatment for gastrointestinal tumors, potentially bringing significant benefits to patients.
Evaluating the dentistry program in Iran using the context, input, process, and product (CIPP) model: a comprehensive analysis
Authors: Babadi Fatemeh , Esfandiari Misagh , Cheraghi Maria
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Attaining a commendable level of quality in an educational program is not just important but imperative. Hence, this study was undertaken to assess the quality of the general dentistry program for students in Iran, utilizing the comprehensive Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP) evaluation model.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out among dentistry students in the 5th to 13th semesters at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Ahvaz, Iran. Data collection for this research utilized a questionnaire designed in alignment with the CIPP Evaluation Model. The perspectives of students were sought in assessing the four domains of context, input, process, and product. Statistical analysis of the data was conducted using ANOVA and T-test methods.

Results

The mean scores of the educational program were as fallow: Content (2.76 ± 0.58), input (2.71 ± 0.65), process (2.51 ± 0.68), and product (3.31 ± 0.68). Overall, the quality of dentistry program was undesirable in all dimensions. Among these dimensions, “product” had the highest mean, while “process” had the lowest mean score.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that the general dentistry educational program were Undesirable in all domains. The CIPP evaluation framework assists decision-makers and policymakers in determining the continuation or renewal of a training program by identifying its strengths and weaknesses.
Association between hearing loss, tinnitus, and chronic kidney disease: the NHANES 2015–2018
Authors: Zou Yihong , Tang Xiaona , Rao Kelang , Zhong Yanghong , Chen Xushan , Liang Yuyan , Pi Ying
Published: July 2024

Background

Previous studies suggested that chronic kidney disease (CKD) might contribute to hearing loss and tinnitus. Patients with CKD are often at risk of sudden onset hearing loss and tinnitus; however, few epidemiological investigations have been conducted on this topic. The purpose of this investigation was to analyze the correlation between hearing loss, tinnitus, and CKD based on information obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Methods

Using data from the NHANES 2015–2018, a cross-sectional analysis was conducted, which included 5,131 participants, and used multivariate logistic regression analyses and subgroup analysis to investigate the association between hearing loss, tinnitus, and CKD.

Results

CKD was associated independently with hearing loss, with the CKD group being more at risk of hearing loss than the non-CKD group [age-adjusted 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.54 (1.31–1.8), p < 0.001]; multivariable-adjusted 95% CI: 1.31 (1.1–1.55), p = 0.002. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis did not find an association between CKD and tinnitus, however, further subgroup analyses showed a relationship in some populations.

Conclusion

The results suggested that CKD is associated with hearing loss and tinnitus. The complexity of the relationship between CKD and hearing loss requires further research.
Uncovering the mechanism of Clostridium butyricum CBX 2021 to improve pig health based on in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Liu Xin , Qiu Xiaoyu , Yang Yong , Wang Jing , Wang Qi , Liu Jingbo , Huang Jinxiu , Yang Feiyun , Liu Zuohua , Qi Renli
Published: July 2024

Introduction

As a symbiotic probiotic for the host, Clostridium butyricum (CB) has the potential to strengthen the body’s immune system and improve intestinal health. However, the probiotic mechanism of CB is not completely understood. The Clostridium butyricum CBX 2021 strain isolated by our team from a health pig independently exhibits strong butyric acid production ability and stress resistance. Therefore, this study comprehensively investigated the efficacy of CBX 2021 in pigs and its mechanism of improving pig health.

Methods

In this study, we systematically revealed the probiotic effect and potential mechanism of the strain by using various methods such as microbiome, metabolites and transcriptome through animal experiments in vivo and cell experiments in vitro.

Results

Our in vivo study showed that CBX 2021 improved growth indicators such as daily weight gain in weaned piglets and also reduced diarrhea rates. Meanwhile, CBX 2021 significantly increased immunoglobulin levels in piglets, reduced contents of inflammatory factors and improved the intestinal barrier. Subsequently, 16S rRNA sequencing showed that CBX 2021 treatment implanted more butyric acid-producing bacteria (such as Faecalibacterium) in piglets and reduced the number of potentially pathogenic bacteria (like Rikenellaceae RC9_gut_group). With significant changes in the microbial community, CBX 2021 improved tryptophan metabolism and several alkaloids synthesis in piglets. Further in vitro experiments showed that CBX 2021 adhesion directly promoted the proliferation of a porcine intestinal epithelial cell line (IPEC-J2). Moreover, transcriptome analysis revealed that bacterial adhesion increased the expression of intracellular G protein-coupled receptors, inhibited the Notch signaling pathway, and led to a decrease in intracellular pro-inflammatory molecules.

Discussion

These results suggest that CBX 2021 may accelerate piglet growth by optimizing the intestinal microbiota, improving metabolic function and enhancing intestinal health.
A novel histone deacetylase inhibitor W2A-16 improves the barrier integrity in brain vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Inoue Yasuteru , Ren Yingxue , Zhang Shuwen , Bamkole Michael , Islam Naeyma N. , Selvaraj Manikandan , Lu Wenyan , Caulfield Thomas R. , Li Yonghe , Kanekiyo Takahisa
Published: July 2024

The maturation of brain microvascular endothelial cells leads to the formation of a tightly sealed monolayer, known as the blood–brain barrier (BBB). The BBB damage is associated with the pathogenesis of age-related neurodegenerative diseases including vascular cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. Growing knowledge in the field of epigenetics can enhance the understanding of molecular profile of the BBB and has great potential for the development of novel therapeutic strategies or targets to repair a disrupted BBB. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) inhibitors are epigenetic regulators that can induce acetylation of histones and induce open chromatin conformation, promoting gene expression by enhancing the binding of DNA with transcription factors. We investigated how HDAC inhibition influences the barrier integrity using immortalized human endothelial cells (HCMEC/D3) and the human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived brain vascular endothelial cells. The endothelial cells were treated with or without a novel compound named W2A-16. W2A-16 not only activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling but also functions as a class I HDAC inhibitor. We demonstrated that the administration with W2A-16 sustained barrier properties of the monolayer of endothelial cells, as evidenced by increased trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER). The BBB-related genes and protein expression were also increased compared with non-treated controls. Analysis of transcript profiles through RNA-sequencing in hCMEC/D3 cells indicated that W2A-16 potentially enhances BBB integrity by influencing genes associated with the regulation of the extracellular microenvironment. These findings collectively propose that the HDAC inhibition by W2A-16 plays a facilitating role in the formation of the BBB. Pharmacological approaches to inhibit HDAC may be a potential therapeutic strategy to boost and/or restore BBB integrity.
Immediate and long-term brain activation of acupuncture on ischemic stroke patients: an ALE meta-analysis of fMRI studies
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Lu Hai , Ren Xuesong , Zhang Junfeng , Wang Yu , Zhang Chunhong , Zhao Xiaofeng
Published: July 2024

Background

Acupuncture, as an alternative and complementary therapy recommended by the World Health Organization for stroke treatment, holds potential in ameliorating neurofunctional deficits induced by ischemic stroke (IS). Understanding the immediate and long-term effects of acupuncture and their interrelation would contribute to a better comprehension of the mechanisms underlying acupuncture efficacy.

Methods

Activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis was used to analyze the brain activation patterns reported in 21 relevant functional neuroimaging studies. Among these studies, 12 focused on the immediate brain activation and 9 on the long-term activation. Single dataset analysis were employed to identify both immediate and long-term brain activation of acupuncture treatment in IS patients, while contrast and conjunction analysis were utilized to explore distinctions and connections between the two.

Results

According to the ALE analysis, immediately after acupuncture treatment, IS patients exhibited an enhanced cluster centered around the right precuneus (PCUN) and a reduced cluster centered on the left middle frontal gyrus (MFG). After long-term acupuncture treatment, IS patients showed an enhanced cluster in the left PCUN, along with two reduced clusters in the right insula (INS) and hippocampus (HIP), respectively. Additionally, in comparison to long-term acupuncture treatment, the right angular gyrus (ANG) demonstrated higher ALE scores immediately after acupuncture, whereas long-term acupuncture resulted in higher scores in the left superior parietal gyrus (SPG). The intersecting cluster activated by both of them was located in the left cuneus (CUN).

Conclusion

The findings provide initial insights into both the immediate and long-term brain activation patterns of acupuncture treatment for IS, as well as the intricate interplay between them. Both immediate and long-term acupuncture treatments showed distinct patterns of brain activation, with the left CUN emerging as a crucial regulatory region in their association.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, CRD42023480834.
Bibliometric analysis of electroencephalogram research in Parkinson’s disease from 2004 to 2023
Authors: Liao Xiao-Yu , Gao Ya-Xin , Qian Ting-Ting , Zhou Lu-Han , Li Li-Qin , Gong Yan , Ye Tian-Fen
Published: July 2024

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions globally. It encompasses both motor and non-motor symptoms, with a notable impact on patients’ quality of life. Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a non-invasive tool that is increasingly utilized to investigate neural mechanisms in PD, identify early diagnostic markers, and assess therapeutic responses.

Methods

The data were sourced from the Science Citation Index Expanded within the Web of Science Core Collection database, focusing on publications related to EEG research in PD from 2004 to 2023. A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was conducted using CiteSpace and VOSviewer software. The analysis began with an evaluation of the selected publications, identifying leading countries, institutions, authors, and journals, as well as co-cited references, to summarize the current state of EEG research in PD. Keywords are employed to identify research topics that are currently of interest in this field through the analysis of high-frequency keyword co-occurrence and cluster analysis. Finally, burst keywords were identified to uncover emerging trends and research frontiers in the field, highlighting shifts in interest and identifying future research directions.

Results

A total of 1,559 publications on EEG research in PD were identified. The United States, Germany, and England have made notable contributions to the field. The University of London is the leading institution in terms of publication output, with the University of California closely following. The most prolific authors are Brown P, Fuhr P, and Stam C In terms of total citations and per-article citations, Stam C has the highest number of citations, while Brown P has the highest H-index. In terms of the total number of publications, Clinical Neurophysiology is the leading journal, while Brain is the most highly cited. The most frequently cited articles pertain to software toolboxes for EEG analysis, neural oscillations, and PD pathophysiology. Through analyzing the keywords, four research hotspots were identified: research on the neural oscillations and connectivity, research on the innovations in EEG Analysis, impact of therapies on EEG, and research on cognitive and emotional assessments.

Conclusion

This bibliometric analysis demonstrates a growing global interest in EEG research in PD. The investigation of neural oscillations and connectivity remains a primary focus of research. The application of machine learning, deep learning, and task analysis techniques offers promising avenues for future research in EEG and PD, suggesting the potential for advancements in this field. This study offers valuable insights into the major research trends, influential contributors, and evolving themes in this field, providing a roadmap for future exploration.
Global trends in the application of fluorescence imaging in pancreatic diseases: a bibliometric and knowledge graph analysis
Authors: Luo Quanneng , Teng Xiong , Dai ManXiong , Yang Jun , Cheng Wei , Chen Kang , Zhou Lei
Published: July 2024

Background

In recent years, with the continuous development of fluorescence imaging technology, research on its application in pancreatic diseases has surged. This area is currently of high research interest and holds the potential to become a non-invasive and effective tool in the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic diseases. The objective of this study is to explore the hotspots and trends in the field of fluorescence imaging technology applications in pancreatic diseases from 2003 to 2023 through bibliometric and visual analysis.

Methods

This study utilized the Web of Science (core collection) to identify publications related to the application of fluorescence imaging technology in pancreatic diseases from 2003 to 2023. Tools such as CiteSpace (V 6.2.R6), VOSviewer (v1.6.20), and R Studio (Bibliometrix: R-tool version 4.1.4) were employed to analyze various dimensions including publication count, countries, institutions, journals, authors, co-cited references, keywords, burst words, and references.

Results

A comprehensive analysis was conducted on 913 papers published from January 1, 2003, to December 1, 2023, on the application of fluorescence imaging technology in pancreatic diseases. The number of publications in this field has rapidly increased, with the United States being the central hub. The University of California, San Diego emerged as the most active institution. “Biomaterials” was identified as the most influential journal. Authors with the most publications and the highest average citations per article are Hoffman, Robert M. and Luiken, George A., respectively. Keywords such as pancreatic cancer, cancer, expression, indocyanine green, and nanoparticles received widespread attention, with indocyanine green and nanoparticles being current active research hotspots in the field.

Conclusion

This study is the first bibliometric analysis in the field of fluorescence imaging technology applications in pancreatic diseases. Our data will facilitate a better understanding of the developmental trends, identification of research hotspots, and direction in this field. The findings provide practical information for other scholars to grasp key directions and cutting-edge insights.
Advancing early onset colorectal cancer research: research advocacy, health disparities, and scientific imperatives
Authors: Dwyer Andrea J. , Rathod Aniruddha , King Carli , Vuik F. E. R. , Gallagher Phuong , Davis Anjee , Lander Eric M. , Perea Jose
Published: July 2024

Early onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) emerged as the fourth foremost contributor to cancer-related mortality among both genders in the late 1990s. Presently, EOCRC (<50) ranks as the leading cause of cancer mortality in men and the second leading cause in women within the United States. Similar trends are now also evident globally, particularly in developed countries. Furthermore, there is strong evidence confirming that health disparities persist in the diagnosis and treatment of EOCRC, with signs indicating that these gaps may worsen in specific cases. These alarming trends highlight the critical need for research to inform evidence-based interventions to reduce the burden of EOCRC globally. Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC) is the leading patient advocacy group in the United States providing information on colon and rectal cancer research, prevention, treatment, and policy. It is the opinion of Fight CRC that an international, coordinated effort with the medical, research, scientific, advocacy, industry and funding community is needed to advance impactful research. Fight CRC, in partnership with José Perea, MD, PhD, of the Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL) in Spain, and partners, are working together to address this global phenomenon and are presenting a multi-faceted research approach to move the field forward.
In vivo pharmacokinetics of Glycyrrhiza uralensis polysaccharides
Authors: Wubuli Abudukahaer , Chai Junwei , Liu Haoqiang , Nijat Dilaram , Li Jianmin , Xia Guoyu , Cao Qi , Zhang Saidan , Huang Weidong , Aipire Adila , Li Jinyao
Published: July 2024

Glycyrrhiza uralensis polysaccharides (GUPS) are widely applied in biomedicine and functional food due to their multiple pharmacological activities and low toxicity. Despite their widespread use, the in vivo metabolic profile of GUPS remains poorly understood. To address this gap, we developed a quantitative analysis method that involves labeling GUPS with visible fluorescein (5-DTAF) and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescein (Cy7), resulting in stable conjugates with substitution degrees of 0.81% for 5-DTAF and 0.39% for Cy7. The pharmacokinetic studies showed a biphasic elimination pattern in the blood concentration-time curve following both intravenous and oral administration, consistent with a two-compartment model. Using fluorescence quantification and NIR imaging, we observed that GUPS was distributed to various tissues, exhibiting higher concentrations particularly in liver, kidney and lung. Excretion studies indicated that feces were the major excretion pathway of GUPS after oral administration (60.98%), whereas urine was the main pathway after intravenous administration (31.16%). Notably, GUPS could be absorbed rapidly by gut (Tmax 1 ± 0.61 h) and showed a biological half-time t1/2 26.4 ± 7.72 h after oral administration. Furthermore, the Caco-2 cells uptake studies illustrated that macropinocytosis and clathrin-mediated endocytosis were participated in the transport of GUPS in intestine epithelium. This comprehensive analysis of the in vivo pharmacokinetics of GUPS not only enhances our understanding of its metabolic pathways but also establishes a foundational basis for its clinical application, optimizing its therapeutic potential and safety profile.
Maternal posture-physiology interactions in human pregnancy: a narrative review
Authors: Kember Allan J. , Anderson Jennifer L. , Gorazd Natalyn E. , House Sarah C. , Kerr Katherine E. , Torres Loza Paula A. , Reuter David G. , Hobson Sebastian R. , Goergen Craig J.
Published: July 2024

There are several well-known medical conditions in which posture and gravity interact with natural history, including pregnancy. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of interactions between maternal posture and maternal physiology and pathophysiology at rest during pregnancy. We conducted a systematic literature search of the MEDLINE database and identified 644 studies from 1991 through 2021, inclusive, that met our inclusion criteria. We present a narrative review of the resulting literature and highlight discrepancies, research gaps, and potential clinical implications. We organize the results by organ system and, commencing with the neurological system, proceed in our synthesis generally in the craniocaudal direction, concluding with the skin. The circulatory system warranted our greatest and closest consideration–literature concerning the dynamic interplay between physiology (heart rate, stroke volume, cardiac output, blood pressure, and systemic vascular resistance), pathophysiology (e.g., hypertension in pregnancy), and postural changes provide an intricate and fascinating example of the importance of the subject of this review. Other organ systems discussed include respiratory, renal, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, abdominal, and endocrine. In addition to summarizing the existing literature on maternal posture-physiology interactions, we also point out gaps and opportunities for further research and clinical developments in this area. Overall, our review provides both insight into and relevance of maternal posture-physiology interactions vis à vis healthcare’s mission to improve health and wellness during pregnancy and beyond.
Subcutaneous advanced glycation end products, cardiovascular risk factors and vascular health during childhood development in a Swiss population
Authors: Hauser Christoph , Lona Giulia , Köchli Sabrina , Streese Lukas , Infanger Denis , Faude Oliver , Hanssen Henner
Published: July 2024

Background

Skin-derived advanced glycation end products (sAGEs) have been associated with cardiovascular (CV) risk and mortality in adults. We hypothesize that cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), body mass index (BMI) and vascular health are associated with development of sAGEs during childhood.

Methods

In our prospective cohort study, 1171 children aged 6–8 years were screened for sAGEs, BMI, retinal arteriolar diameters (CRAE) and pulse wave velocity (PWV), using standardized procedures. To determine CRF a 20 m shuttle run was performed. After four 4 years, all parameters were assessed in 675 children using the same protocols.

Results

Higher initial CRF levels were significantly associated with lower sAGEs (β [95 CI] −0.02 [−0.03 to −0.002] au, p = 0.022) levels at follow-up, although they showed a greater change from baseline to follow-up (β [95 CI] 0.02 [0.002 to 0.03] au, p = 0.027). Moreover, individuals with higher sAGEs at baseline showed narrower CRAE (β [95% CI] −5.42 [−8.76 to −2.08] μm, p = 0.001) at follow-up and showed a greater change in CRAE (β [95% CI] −3.99 [−7.03 to −0.96] μm, p = 0.010) from baseline to follow-up.

Conclusion

Exercise and higher CRF may help mitigate the formation of AGEs during childhood, thereby reducing the risk for development of CV disease associated with AGEs-induced damage. Preventive strategies may need to target CRF early in life to achieve improvement of CV risk factors and may counteract the development of CV disease later in life.
Assembly and comparative genome analysis of four mitochondrial genomes from Saccharum complex species
Authors: Li Sicheng , Yang Cuifang , Wang Zhen , Xu Chaohua , Zhang Gemin , Huang Yuxin , Zhang Baoqing , Zhou Shan , Gao Yijing , Zong Wenyi , Duan Weixing , Yang Xiping
Published: July 2024

Saccharum complex includes genera Saccharum, Miscanthus, Erianthus, Narenga, and Tripidium. Since the Saccharum complex/Saccharinae constitutes the gene pool used by sugarcane breeders to introduce useful traits into sugarcane, studying the genomic characterization of the Saccharum complex has become particularly important. Here, we assembled graph-based mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of four Saccharinae species (T. arundinaceum, E. rockii, M. sinensis, and N. porphyrocoma) using Illumina and PacBio sequencing data. The total lengths of the mitogenomes of T. arundinaceum, M. sinensis, E. rockii and N. porphyrocoma were 549,593 bp, 514,248 bp, 481,576 bp and 513,095 bp, respectively. Then, we performed a comparative mitogenomes analysis of Saccharinae species, including characterization, organelles transfer sequence, collinear sequence, phylogenetics analysis, and gene duplicated/loss. Our results provided the mitogenomes of four species closely related to sugarcane breeding, enriching the mitochondrial genomic resources of the Saccharinae. Additionally, our study offered new insights into the evolution of mitogenomes at the family and genus levels and enhanced our understanding of organelle evolution in the highly polyploid Saccharum genus.
Exclusive public—an analysis of public participation in the site selection procedure for a repository for nuclear waste
Authors: Denk Albert
Published: July 2024

The aim of this article is to highlight and conceptualize key aspects of social closures that impact the German nuclear waste management case. According to the German legislator, the public must be involved in the search for a final repository for high-level radioactive waste. De facto, however, almost the entire population of Germany is excluded. In this article, processes of social closure are identified which lead to this and more extensive problematic situations with regard to procedural gaps. The participatory claim of the procedure already contains indeterminacies, participation conditions and concrete exclusions that make broad participation impossible. Based on the analysis of social closures to the outside and to the inside, it is shown that this participation only includes extremely few, generally better-off citizens and does not meet the claim to represent the public. Above all, closure mechanisms have an external effect, due to the characteristics of a supposed separation between people and their natural environment, the nation-statehood, and a limitation to symptom control. Internal closures function due to ignorance of unequal social positions, nuclear-historical amnesia, and the decoupling of safety and justice. This article ends with the conceptual creation of an exclusive public, which describes a process of state instrumentalization of public participation.
Assessing the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder in a multicultural medical education setting in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ashraf Nader , Arabi Tarek Ziad , Dabaliz Alhomam , Abou Shaar Bader , Baqal Omar Javed , Taha Rand Mohammad , Baqal Eman Javed , Alkodaymi Mohamad Salim , Obeidat Akef , Ouban Abderrahman
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Mental health among medical students is an area that has been increasingly garnering world-wide attention. Yet, despite this increased attention, research related to anxiety disorders in Saudi Arabia remain limited. This study aims to address this gap by assessing the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as well as explore its association with students’ sociodemographic factors and academic performance among medical students in a Saudi Arabian institute that has a diverse, multicultural student body.

Methods

The study takes place in a unique educational environment: a privately funded institute in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, with 32% of its student body comprising international students from over 40 countries, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study deploys the use of a survey that was sent to the students at this institute via their institutional emails. A survey containing 33 items assessing demographics, GAD using GAD-7 questionnaire, stress-relief measures, online learning experience during the pandemic, mental disorders, anxiety associated with the pandemic, two open-ended questions, and one item assessing sleep difficulty.

Results

The results of the survey showed that a significant majority of the responders’ scores in the GAD-7 assessment were in the range of moderate to severe anxiety. The results also suggest that low cGPA and the first academic years are significantly associated with higher GAD-7 scores. Students found severe time constraints, difficult educational content, and lack of psychological support to be major sources of stress. Furthermore, students suggested providing an in-house psychologist, personalized feedback, and guidance on study tactics as methods to reduce anxiety.

Conclusion

These findings, among others, suggest a need for further studies and research in this field to uncover broader patterns and inform targeted mental health support strategies.
Inspiring rural youth to consider healthcare careers through an interprofessional healthcare traveling roadshow
Authors: Mytting Kristjan , Muermann Martin , Maurice Sean B.
Published: July 2024

There are well-documented shortages of healthcare providers in rural and remote communities worldwide, and these shortages correlate with inequitable health outcomes for rural peoples. Despite a wide array of efforts to remedy the issue, these shortages persist to this day. The Healthcare Traveling Roadshow (HCTRS) is a grassroots initiative that began in 2010 to help address the shortage of healthcare providers in rural communities throughout British Columbia. Since its inception, the HCTRS has been predicated on three evidence-based guiding principles which have been shown to markedly increase the rate at which healthcare students choose to practice rurally. These principles are: (1) to showcase healthcare careers as viable and realistic options for rural youth (high school students) using interactive stations and near-peer teaching; (2) to expose healthcare students to rural communities and showcase them as a potential opportunity for their future practice; and (3) to provide a unique interprofessional experience to healthcare students from diverse healthcare careers and backgrounds. Through the synergy of these three principles the HCTRS aims to increase the longitudinal recruitment and retention of healthcare workers in underserved rural communities. This paper will share our experience from 15  years of running this initiative, for those hoping to implement similar programs in other areas of the world.
Analysis of factors influencing influenza outbreaks in schools in Taicang City, China
Authors: Shi Yao , Xu Lei , Jiang Hai , Cai Yongbin , Bao Changjun , Liu Wendong
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aims to analyze the awareness of influenza prevention and control and the behavioral attitudes toward the work among parents and staff in schools in Taicang City and the impact of the vaccination rate among students on influenza outbreaks in schools. The findings can provide references for the development of effective control strategies for the spread of influenza.

Methods

An anonymous questionnaire survey was conducted on 10,962 students from 20 schools in Taicang City, with class as the unit of analysis. The survey investigated their awareness of influenza prevention and control, their attitudes, and the vaccination coverage.

Results

From January to June 2023, a total of 388 influenza outbreaks were reported in schools in Taicang City, involving 77 schools. There were 3,475 confirmed cases, with an average infection rate of 18.53%. In schools where influenza outbreaks had occurred, the incidence rate of those who received influenza vaccine was significantly lower than those who did not, and the vaccine protection rate was 28.22%. The knowledge awareness rates of “the main transmission routes of influenza” and “influenza vaccination can prevent influenza” among parents of students were 95.49 and 93.16%, respectively. The differences between schools involved in the epidemic and non-epidemic were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The correct attitudes of parents toward “actively reporting relevant symptoms to teachers when their children show symptoms” and “avoiding classes with diseases when their children are suspected to be sick” are 98.80 and 96.26%, respectively. The differences between schools with and without epidemic are statistically significant (p < 0.05). The correct attitudes of the class teacher toward “correct management and control of students with flu like symptoms in the class” and “taking correct prevention and control measures in the event of a flu epidemic in the class” were 89.36 and 92.55%, respectively. The differences between epidemic related and non-epidemic related classes were statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Enhance the knowledge level of influenza prevention and control among parents of students, Strengthening the training for class teachers in emergency response to infectious diseases and increasing vaccination coverage among students can effectively reduce the incidence of influenza and thereby the occurrence of cluster outbreaks in schools.