bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tempo de internação em reabilitação intensiva para pacientes neurológicos e fatores prognósticos
Authors: Cabral Fernando Bermudes , Bastos Filho Teodiano Freire
Published: February 2025

Pacientes com lesões neurológicas podem se tornar Pessoas com Deficiência (PcD) afetando sua participação plena e efetiva na sociedade. Internação em terapia intensiva reabilitacional beneficiam estes pacientes, melhorando a funcionalidade e a independência. Uma dúvida comum é o tempo necessário de internação. A estimativa da duração é importante para delinear um Plano Terapêutico Singular (PTS) e embasar um plano estratégico de gestão em saúde, particularmente para definir a quantidade de leitos em reabilitação será necessária para suprir a demanda. Utilizamos como parâmetro a escala de Medida de Independência Funcional (MIF) que mede a incapacidade e é um teste validado e importante para analisar o grau de dependência e acompanhamento de melhora com o processo reabilitacional.
Tratamento de dor neuropática pós-traumática e pós-operatória com Toxina Botulínica: um relato de caso
Authors: Fonseca Marcos Matheus da Silva , Nogueira Caio Henrique Gasparotto , Moares Lucas Levy Alves de , Fonseca Ana Paula Zanchenko , Akamine Eduardo Hideyuki
Published: February 2025

A dor neuropática é uma condição complexa e debilitante caracterizada por sensações anormais, como queimação, choque, formigamento e coceira, que surgem de danos ao sistema nervoso. Pode ocorrer como resultado de várias condições, incluindo lesão medular, infecções, diabetes mellitus, quimioterapia, doenças autoimunes e trauma. Esse tipo de dor pode ter impactos significativos na qualidade de vida do indivíduo, levando não apenas a desconforto físico, mas também a sofrimento emocional, como depressão e ansiedade.
Natural History, Phenotype Spectrum, and Clinical Outcomes of Desmin (
DES
)-Associated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Asatryan Babken , Rieder Marina , Murray Brittney , Muller Steven A. , Tichnell Crystal , Gasperetti Alessio , Carrick Richard T. , Joseph Emily , Leung Doris G. , te Riele Anneline S.J.M. , Zimmerman Stefan L. , Calkins Hugh , James Cynthia A. , Barth Andreas S.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Pathogenic/likely pathogenic (LP) desmin (
DES
) variants cause heterogeneous cardiomyopathy and skeletal myopathy phenotypes. Limited data suggest a high incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), including cardiac conduction disease, sustained ventricular arrhythmias (VA), and heart failure (HF) events (HF hospitalization, left ventricular assist device/cardiac transplant, HF-related death) in patients with pathogenic/LP
DES
variants. However, pleiotropic presentation and small cohort sizes have limited clinical phenotype and outcome characterization. We aimed to describe the natural history, phenotype spectrum, familial penetrance and outcomes in patients with pathogenic/LP
DES
variants through a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis using published reports.

METHODS:

We searched Medline (PubMed) and Embase for studies that evaluated cardiac phenotypes in patients with pathogenic/LP
DES
variants. Cardiomyopathy diagnosis or occurrence of MACE was considered evidence of cardiac involvement/penetrance. Lifetime event-free survival from cardiac conduction disease, sustained VA, HF events, and composite MACE was assessed.

RESULTS:

Of the 4212 screened publications, 71 met the inclusion criteria. A total of 230 patients were included (52.6% male, 52.2% probands, median age: 31 years [22.0–42.8] at first evaluation, median follow-up: 3 years [0–11.0]). Overall, 124 (53.9%) patients were diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, predominantly dilated cardiomyopathy (14.8%), followed by restrictive cardiomyopathy (13.5%), whereas other forms were less common: arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (7.0%), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (6.1%), arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (5.2%), and other forms (7.4%). Overall, 132 (57.4%) patients developed MACE, with 96 (41.7%) having cardiac conduction disease, 36 (15.7%) sustained VA, and 43 (18.7%) HF events. Familial penetrance of cardiac disease was 63.6% among relatives with pathogenic/LP
DES
variants. Male sex was associated with an increased risk of sustained VA (hazard ratio, 2.28;
P
=0.02) and HF events (hazard ratio, 2.45;
P
=0.008).

CONCLUSIONS:

DES
cardiomyopathy exhibits heterogeneous phenotypes and a distinct natural history, characterized by high familial penetrance and a substantial MACE burden. Male patients face a higher risk of sustained VA events.
Effect of RICAS (Remote Ischemic Preconditioning on Collaterals of Atherosclerosis Stroke): Rationale and Design
Authors: Zhao Zi‐Ai , Lv Yan , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: February 2025

Background

As a noninvasive, low‐cost, nonpharmacological procedure with excellent properties of safety, remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) has been demonstrated to prevent recurrence of stroke among patients with ischemic stroke of large artery atherosclerosis origin. We hypothesized that the benefit is attributed to the improvement of collaterals by chronic RIC in this population, and we aimed to explore the influence of chronic RIC on collateral status evaluated by digital subtraction angiography in this population.

Methods

The RICAS (Remote Ischemic Preconditioning on Collaterals of Atherosclerosis Stroke) study is a prospective, randomized, blind end point, multicenter study. Eligible patients with ischemic stroke of anterior circulation caused by large artery atherosclerosis, poor collateral compensation, and more than 1 month of symptom onset, are randomly assigned into experimental and control groups with a ratio of 1:1. The patients in the experiment group will receive treatment with RIC (bilateral upper limbs, for a total procedure time of 50 minutes, twice daily) for 1 year as an adjunct to guideline‐based treatment, while patients in the control group only receive guideline‐based treatment. A maximum of 300 patients (150 participants per group) are required to test the superiority hypothesis with 80% power (using a 2‐sided
α
=0.05) to detect a 15% difference. Subgroup analyses for the primary end point will be performed on 8 prespecified subgroups by age, sex, ischemic event (acute ischemic stroke ore transient ischemic stroke), tandem lesion, history of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, and myocardial infarction. The primary outcome is the proportion of collateral status improvement, which is defined as an increase of ≥1 point on the American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology score, as assessed by digital subtraction angiography at 12 months after randomization. The safety outcomes include RIC‐related adverse events.

Conclusions

This study may provide the direct evidence for the potential effect of chronic RIC treatment on the improvement of collateral status.

Registration

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT06170944.
Investigating Multiple Mediators to Mitigate Socioeconomic Differences in Patient‐Reported Outcomes After Stroke: A Nationwide Register‐Based Study
Authors: Lindmark Anita , Darehed David
Published: February 2025

Background

Substantial socioeconomic differences in patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) 3 months after stroke have recently been shown. We aimed to understand the underlying mechanisms and investigate potential interventional targets to equalize differences.

Methods

All patients aged 18 to 64 years, independent in activities of daily living, registered with a first‐time stroke in Riksstroke (the Swedish Stroke Register) from 2015 to 2017 were included. PROMs 3 months after stroke included activities of daily living status, mood, fatigue, pain, and general health. Socioeconomic status (SES) was measured on the basis of income and education. Using causal mediation analysis, we simulated the effect of interventions on the distributions of smoking, metabolic health (diabetes, antihypertensive treatment, statin treatment), atrial fibrillation, and stroke characteristics (stroke type, severity) on the absolute SES‐related risk difference in PROMs.

Results

Of 6910 patients, 8% had become dependent in activities of daily living, 13% reported low mood, 42% fatigue, 23% pain, and 17% poor general health 3 months after stroke. Adjusted for sex and age, low SES was associated with increased absolute risks of poor PROMs with between 6% and 18% compared with higher SES with the largest increase for general health (18.2% [95% CI, 13.5%–22.9%]). Intervening to shift the distribution of all mediators among patients with low SES to those of patients with higher SES potentially reduces SES disparities by a proportion of 14% to 45%. For most PROMs the most important intervention was reducing smoking and improving metabolic health.

Conclusions

Working‐age patients with low SES report more severe outcomes 3 months after stroke than patients with higher SES. Targeted interventions reducing the prevalence of smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol in patients with low SES could mitigate these disparities.
Effects of tropical cyclone size on its energy cycle and steady-state intensity in idealized numerical simulations
Authors: Li Yuanlong , Tan Zhe-Min , Wang Yuqing
Published: February 2025

Previous modeling studies have found that tropical cyclones (TCs) with a larger initial overall (both inner-core and outer-core) size tend to have a higher steady-state intensity. Since TC size before and in steady state keeps a strong memory of its initial size, the dependence of steady-state intensity on initial size is often studied by examining the effect of steady-state size on steady-state intensity. Recent studies have ascribed the effect to an increasing contribution from the supergradient wind to intensity as size increases from the boundary layer dynamics perspective. In the present study, the effect has been revisited from the energetic perspective based on the isentropic energy diagnostic analysis using axisymmetric numerical simulations. Results show that as the overall TC size increases, the overall surface enthalpy fluxes increase and thus the inflow leg in the energy cycle absorbs more entropy in larger TCs, resulting in higher generations of kinetic energy and thus higher intensities. It is also found that a higher sea surface temperature tends to reduce the effect of TC size on the entropy absorption in the TC energy cycle, but results in a higher Carnot efficiency. As a result, the increasing tendency of generation of kinetic energy or TC intensity with size is similar under different sea surface temperatures.
Preparation and properties of antimicrobial polyurethane fibers based on α-ZrP and their durability in sports fabrics
Authors: Wan Ailan , Zhu Tingting , Wang Jianwei
Published: February 2025

To investigate the antimicrobial sports fabrics with good durability, silver ions antibacterial polyurethane fiber (Ag+PUF), chitosan/silver ions antimicrobial polyurethane fiber (CS/Ag+PUF) and quaternary ammonium salts/silver ions polyurethane fiber (QAS/Ag+PUF) were prepared. To protect the main body of antibacterial polyurethane fibers (ABPUFs) from oxidative discoloration under the influence of Ag+, the antimicrobial agent was first assembled with α-ZrP and then spun after being mixed into a polyurethane solution. In addition, nine fabric samples with different ABPUF contents (7%, 8%, 9%, 17%, 18%, and 19%) were prepared. The antibacterial properties of fibers and fabrics of Ag+PUF, CS/Ag+PUF, and QAS/Ag+PUF were characterized comprehensively and the relationship between the intrinsic antimicrobial properties of fibers and their chemical structure was demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis. In addition, the mechanical properties of the fibers and air and moisture permeability of the fabrics were tested. The inhibition rates against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus of ABPUF and its fabrics exceeded 99.99%. ABPUF maintained an antimicrobial rate of over 98% after soaking in acetic acid solution at pH 3, 95°C for 45 min. It was demonstrated that the antibacterial rate of the fabrics prepared with Ag+PUF, CS/Ag+PUF, and QAS/Ag+PUF was reduced by 0.24–5.4% after 2000 rubbing revolutions and by 6.99–40.47% after laundering 50 times. SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, and DSC analysis confirmed the presence of antimicrobial agents in the fibers. Mechanical properties proved that the elongation at break of ABPUF was 12.6%, 2.4%, and 1.5% less than that of PUF, respectively. In summary, ABPUF maintained excellent antimicrobial properties and durability and could be used in sports fabrics. A fuzzy mathematics comprehensive evaluation indicated that the comprehensive performance of fabric prepared by 44.4 dtex Ag + PUF with 2 + 2 mesh structure is the best.
Stiffness-damping matching of all-terrain vehicle intelligent suspension with a two-stage optimization algorithm
Authors: Xia Dongbin , Fu Jie , Li Wei , Liang Huijun , Luo Lei , Yu Miao
Published: February 2025

The all-terrain vehicle (ATV) equipped with magnetorheological(MR) damper and air springs can adjust suspension stiffness and damping based on prevailing driving conditions to enhance ride comfort and driving safety. However, the challenge lies in how to match the stiffness and damping to achieve maximum vibration attenuation for various working conditions. In this paper, a two-stage optimization algorithm is proposed. Initially, using the dynamic equation and the vehicle bias design requirements, the first-stage optimization determines the parameter range for the air spring’s characteristic curve and the damping coefficient range for the damper. Subsequently, a comprehensive vehicle model is established based on Carsim, and the optimization goal is set by combining GB/T 4970-2009 and driving safety indices. The theoretically derived parameter range serves as the optimization boundary. The second stage employs a genetic algorithm (GA) to obtain specific values for stiffness and damping parameters. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified through real-vehicle off-road experiments. The results demonstrate that, compared with the original passive suspension, the intelligent suspension with stiffness-damping matching significantly attenuates pitch and roll acceleration in the 0.5–2 Hz range and vertical acceleration in the 4–12.5 Hz range under various loads.
ERF-Related Craniosynostosis in a Patient With Hypochondroplasia: A Case Report
Authors: Jumayeva Gozel , Soğukpınar Merve , Karaosmanoğlu Beren , Ürel-Demir Gizem , Göçmen Rahşan , Utine Gülen Eda , Şimsek-Kiper Pelin Özlem
Published: February 2025

We report a case of multiple suture craniosynostosis in a patient with hypochondroplasia. The patient presented with short stature marked by a relatively long trunk and short extremities. The clinical and radiological findings were suggestive of hypochondroplasia. Additionally, craniosynostosis was identified during the evaluation, which is an unusual finding in hypochondroplasia. To further investigate, exome sequencing was performed, revealing previously reported pathogenic heterozygous variants in FGFR3 and ERF genes. Exome sequencing not only enhances the accuracy of diagnosing individual cases of genetic skeletal disorders but also contributes to the collective knowledge base, advancing future research in the field.
With and against photography: Voice as love practice
Authors: Francis Anthony
Published: February 2025

This photo-centered essay is based on an ongoing conversation with three other artists and a continuous engagement with their work. It addresses the challenges posed by the anti-Black nature of the history of photographic language and by the exclusionary nature of the contemporary art market as a highly racialized institutional arrangement. Driven by a Black Feminist practice of love my artistic work brought me to question and to seek to unsettle the politics of portraiture, expression, hegemonies, and anti-Blackness. This essay builds on collective reflections on how photographic artistic expression can be liberated from an historically colonial and racialized medium and become a love practice that incessantly redistributes power relations within racial capitalism.
Documented Cannabis Use Is a Risk Factor for Nonunion After Nonoperative Management of Scaphoid Fractures: A Retrospective Review of 159 998 Patients
Authors: Pathak Neil , Ratnasamy Phillip P. , Oghenesume Oghenewoma P. , Luo Xuan , Grauer Jonathan N. , Halim Andrea
Published: February 2025

Background:

The purpose of the present study was to assess whether an association exists between cannabis use and nonunion among patients with acute scaphoid fractures initially treated nonoperatively.

Methods:

Using the PearlDiver national data set (2010-2020), adult patients with a scaphoid fracture were identified. Patients initially treated with nonoperative management were selected, and 3 subgroups were defined: non-cannabis/non-tobacco (non-users), tobacco-only, cannabis-only. Matched cohorts for each subgroup controlled for age, sex, and comorbidities. Nonunion rates at 6 months, 12 months, and 2 years after fracture diagnosis were determined for each subgroup’s matched cohort. Rates of subsequent nonunion surgery were also determined. Multivariable analysis was then done to determine potential associations.

Results:

A total of 159 998 scaphoid fracture patients were identified. The non-users’ group exhibited a nonunion rate of 7.7%. The nonunion rates for the tobacco-only and cannabis-only groups (11.8% and 10.1% respectively) were significantly greater than that of the non-users group. Based on multivariable analysis, cannabis use and tobacco use were individually associated with a greater risk of scaphoid nonunion as well as subsequent nonunion surgery at 6 months, 12 months, and 2 years after index fracture.

Conclusion:

Documented cannabis use in the electronic medical record is associated with an increased risk of scaphoid nonunion and subsequent nonunion surgery. Further studies are necessary to clarify if this association can be contributed solely to cannabis use, to mixing cannabis or tobacco, or to other variables. In the meantime, physicians can counsel their patients on this potential association and increased risk.
Os Styloideum and Third Metacarpal Partial Coalition Nonunion After Traumatic Fracture: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Azócar Camila , Gulde Maria Lua , Hagert Elisabet
Published: February 2025

The Os Styloideum (OS) is an accessory carpal bone located in the dorsal aspect of the wrist between the base of the second and third metacarpal bones and the trapezoid and the capitate. It is frequently partially coalited with the metacarpal bones and is usually asymptomatic. It may become symptomatic after a traumatic fracture, developing swelling, edema, and pain. We report 3 cases with a fracture of an OS partial coalition with the third metacarpal bone with signs of delayed consolidation. They all complain of persistent pain at the dorsal aspect of the hand that increased with activity. One patient rejected surgery, had a platelet-rich plasma injection, shock wave therapy, and afterward did physiotherapy rehabilitation without complete solution; the other two patients underwent surgical excision with local anesthesia and had a complete recovery after 2 months of follow-up. The OS is an infrequent entity yet must be correctly diagnosed as a possible cause of dorsal pain in the hand and wrist. If symptoms are refractory to medical treatment, surgical excision should be considered. Open excision under local anesthesia is a simple, reproducible procedure with excellent results.
News media and citizens’ trust toward authorities in times of crisis
Authors: Reveilhac Maud , Boomgaarden Hajo
Published: February 2025

Trust in public authorities can be crucial for a country to navigate through times of crisis. Such crises put news media into the spotlight as crucial information brokers between authorities and the public. It is argued that media coverage should affect trust in public institutions and that such effects are likely to be conditioned by individuals’ crisis risk perceptions. This article investigates the dynamics of public trust in the government during the COVID-19 pandemic over more than a two-year period. To do so, it draws on panel survey data from thirty-two waves combined with data on news media coverage of salient topics of crisis coverage. The analytical strategy relies on multilevel modeling and assesses the effect of media coverage on citizens’ trust, as well as the effect of risk perceptions and the interaction between them. Among others, the results revealed that risk perceptions related to the economy and exposure to media coverage of economic “costs” negatively impacted trust. Furthermore, it found evidence that when associated with media exposure to “costs,” societal risk perceptions (both health and economy related) had a significant impact on trust in government. The impact varied depending on the level of media exposure, with high exposure leading to higher trust in government. The study concludes by highlighting the practical and theoretical implications of these findings.
Sinus node dysfunction following bariatric surgery: A case report
Authors: Dahl Kristoffer , Lappegard Knut Tore
Published: February 2025

Sinus node dysfunction is often due to degeneration of the heart’s impulse-generating system. We report a case of a 40-year-old woman with a recent gastric sleeve surgery, who presented with symptomatic sinus bradycardia following significant post-surgical weight loss. Extensive workup excluded common causes such as electrolyte disturbances, hypothyroidism, or cardiomyopathy. We hypothesize that alterations in leptin metabolism due to weight loss triggered increased vagal stimulation, leading to her bradycardia. The patient was treated with theophylline as a noninvasive alternative to pacemaker implantation. Long-term monitoring showed partial improvement in heart rate. This case highlights the need for vigilance in managing bradycardia as a potential side effect of bariatric surgery-induced weight loss, emphasizing the importance of follow-up and the potential role of leptin in heart rate regulation.
International practice and enlightenment for the ethical governance of emerging technologies
Authors: Yang Yao , Shi Xiaoyong
Published: February 2025

Science and technology (S&T) ethics is the base for promoting the healthy development of S&T, and the governance of emerging technology ethics has become an important part of global S&T ethics governance. This study discusses the ethical governance of leading technologies of the new round of the scientific revolution, such as artificial intelligence, human gene editing and stem cell technology. We analyse the approaches taken by international organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union, the World Health Organization and the International Society for Stem Cell Research, as well as the practices of the United States in the fields of emerging technologies. Based on this analysis, we propose relevant policy recommendations.
Overparenting and Female College Students’ Decision-Making Into Romantic Relationships and Hookups
Authors: Jiao Chengfei , Lee Celia T. , Cui Ming , Fincham Frank D.
Published: February 2025

Love and romance significantly influence self-identity during emerging adulthood. While romantic relationships offer various benefits, many emerging adults, especially college students, often choose to engage in hookups. Specifically, female college students may face greater psychological and emotional harms following hookups. Overparenting might relate to college students’ relationship choice, through hindering emerging adults’ decision-making processes (sliding vs. deciding). This study investigated how overparenting across relational, academic, health, and financial domains relate to female college students’ ( N = 505; Mage = 19.84, SD = 1.21; 78.6% European American) involvement in romantic relationships and hookups, mediated by emotional and physical deciding. A path model revealed that relational overparenting was associated with a lower likelihood of involvement in romantic relationships through hindering emotional deciding. At a three-month follow-up ( N = 265), results from a path model showed that relational overparenting was associated with more hookup partners through poorer physical deciding. Implications for practice are discussed.
Make, learn, exhibit and share with others: The case of Inhibition
Authors: Koutsomichalis Marinos
Published: February 2025

This article scrutinises an endeavour staging together hardware prototyping, co-design and exhibition-of/performance-with DIY artefacts. Inhibition pivots on a neural network controlled headset capable of electroencephalography and algorithmic audio composition. This technology is detailed and the particular ways in which it affords a multi-faceted doing-it-with-others are elaborated upon. Technological and artistic implications are discussed vis-à-vis: holistic frameworks for co-production/education; multi-modal affect; participatory/relational art; Dewean pragmatism; and the practice and culture of ‘open-sourcing’. It is shown that the values that are more often than not associated with art making fail do justice the ramifications of such an endeavour and that the latter cannot be thought of through an hylomorphic lenses. A different vector of values is demanded that rather concerns playful techno-scientific experimentation, ‘commonism’ and socio-material enactment. On this continuum, the author suggests neo-constructivism, democracy and post-selfhood as the lenses to think about Inhibition.
Presentation of CXCL12γ by heparan sulfate proteoglycans activates CXCR4 without desensitization in B cells
Authors: Lantermans Hildo C. , Ma Fangxue , Kuil Annemieke , de Rooij Martin F.M. , Bergkamp Nick , van der Meer Werner Jack , van Buul Jaap Diederik , Smit Martine , Kersten Marie José , Spaargaren Marcel , Pals Steven T.
Published: February 2025

CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling is involved in a wide variety of homeostatic and pathological processes, but the role of specific CXCL12 isoforms has remained largely unexplored. We have recently shown that the CXCL12γ isoform, which holds an exceptionally high affinity for heparan sulfate (HS), is produced by human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) and remains cell-surface immobilized by HS proteoglycans (HSPGs). This HS-bound CXCL12γ is critical for the adhesion of multiple myeloma cells to BMSCs and for BMSC-mediated drug resistance. Here, we investigated how CXCL12γ activates and regulates CXCR4, by employing a variety of biosensors in HEK293T cells and endogenous CXCR4-expressing B-lymphoma and myeloma cell lines as well as primary B cells. We show that CXCL12γ and CXCL12α bind CXCR4 with a similar affinity and that the cumulative activation of CXCR4 over time is equal for both ligands, although CXCL12α activates CXCR4 more rapidly. Whereas non-bound CXCL12γ and CXCL12α equally induce CXCR4 internalization, cell- or heparin-bound CXCL12γ hardly induces CXCR4 internalization or desensitization. CXCL12γ presented by HSPGs on the membrane of human bone marrow endothelial cells (HBMECs) induces potent cell adhesion to the endothelium under physiological flow, while, upon encountering HBMEC-bound CXCL12γ, cells retain the ability to migrate towards CXCL12α. Taken together, our data demonstrate that CXCL12γ and CXCL12α differentially modulate CXCR4 trafficking and that CXCL12γ, immobilized and presented by HSPGs on the cell surface of HBMECs, can efficiently arrest circulating cells without causing CXCR4 internalization or desensitization, thus allowing subsequent cell migration towards a CXCL12α gradient.
Improved Outcome and Therapeutic Directions in Pediatric Therapy-related AML: Recommendations by the AML-BFM Study Group
Authors: Sendker Stephanie , Schneider Markus , Antoniou Evangelia , Neumann Daniel , Niktoreh Nagmeh , Dirksen Uta , Von Neuhoff Nils , Creutzig Ursula , Reinhardt Dirk , Waack Katharina
Published: February 2025

Therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia (tAML) is one of the most feared therapy-emergent complications. This study aims to determine the clinical and pathological significance, to define therapeutic implications and poor prognosticators in pediatric tAML. We analyze a total of 119 pediatric patients (2 to 20 years), who were centrally diagnosed with tAML within the AML-BFM study group between 1993 and 2019. Compared with de-novo AML, tAML was associated with decreased white blood count and involvement of the central nervous system. Latency to tAML was inversely correlated with age at primary malignancy. Patients with tAML were more likely to have abnormal karyotypes, over-representing KMT2A-rearrangements, the unfavorable cytogenetics -7/del(7q), complex and monosomal karyotypes while core-binding AML were underrepresented. The occurrence of stratification-relevant molecular genetics was comparable with de-novo AML while CEBPAdm was absent in tAML. Survival rates in tAML improved from 10±6% in AML-BFM 93/98 to 50±10% in the registries 2012/2017, though, this is still worse compared to de-novo AML. Hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) in no evidence of leukemia (NEL, < 5% blasts) following two induction cycles greatly improved survival. Adverse cytogenetics, previous ionizing radiation (> 35 Gray), and latency ≤ 1 year were identified as the strongest poor prognosticators. Over the past 26 years, outcome and survival significantly improved in pediatric tAML. Our results suggest HSCT in NEL following two induction cycles as the most promising therapeutic approaches for achieving improved survival. Radiation, adverse cytogenetics, and latency ≤ 1 year should be considered as poor prognosticators in pediatric tAML.
RTN3 regulates collagen biosynthesis and profibrotic macrophage differentiation to promote pulmonary fibrosis via interacting with CRTH2
Authors: Wang Chen-Yu , Chen Ya-Qin , Huang Hao , Yuan Zhuang-Zhuang , Dong Yi , Jin Jie-Yuan , Long Jie-Yi , Liu Lv , Fan Liang-Liang , Xiang Rong
Published: February 2025

Background

As an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) protein, Reticulum 3 (RTN3) has been reported to play a crucial role in neurodegenerative diseases, lipid metabolism, and chronic kidney disease. The involvement of RTN3 in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a progressive and fatal interstitial lung disease, remains unexplored.

Methods

In this study, we explored the role of RTN3 in pulmonary fibrosis using public datasets, IPF patient samples, and animal models. We investigated its pathogenic mechanisms in lung fibroblasts and alveolar macrophages.

Results

We found decreased levels of RTN3 in IPF patients, bleomycin-induced mice, and TGFβ-treated cell lines. RTN3-null mice exhibited more severe pulmonary fibrosis phenotypes in old age or after bleomycin treatment. Collagen synthesis was significantly increased in RTN3-null mice lung tissues and lung fibroblasts. Mechanistic studies revealed that RTN3 deficiency reduced the ER-anchored CRTH2 in lung fibroblasts, which serves as an antifibrotic molecule via antagonizing collagen biosynthesis. Simultaneously, RTN3 deficiency reduced the autophagy degradation of CRTH2 which acts as an activator of profibrotic macrophage differentiation. Both effects of RTN3 and CRTH2 in lung fibroblasts and alveolar macrophages aggravated age-or bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Additionally, we also identified a mutation of RTN3 in patients with ILD.

Conclusions

Our research demonstrated that RTN3 plays a significant role in the lung, and reduction of RTN3 levels may be a risk factor for IPF and related diseases.
DNA methylation biomarkers of intellectual/developmental disability across the lifespan
Authors: LaSalle Janine M.
Published: February 2025

Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, act at the interface of genes and environment by allowing a static genome to respond and adapt to a dynamic environment during the lifespan of an individual. Genome-wide DNA methylation analyses on a wide range of human biospecimens are beginning to identify epigenetic biomarkers that can predict risk of intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). DNA methylation-based epigenetic signatures are becoming clinically useful in categorizing benign from pathogenic genetic variants following exome sequencing. While DNA methylation marks differ by tissue source, recent studies have shown that accessible perinatal tissues, such as placenta, cord blood, newborn blood spots, and cell free DNA may serve as accessible surrogate tissues for testing epigenetic biomarkers relevant to understanding genetic, environmental, and gene by environment interactions on the developing brain. These DNA methylation signatures may also provide important information about the biological pathways that become dysregulated prior to disease progression that could be used to develop early pharmacological interventions. Future applications could involve preventative screenings using DNA methylation biomarkers during pregnancy or the newborn period for IDDs and other neurodevelopmental disorders. DNA methylation biomarkers in adolescence and adulthood are also likely to be clinically useful for tracking biological aging or co-occurring health conditions that develop across the lifespan. In conclusion, DNA methylation biomarkers are expected to become more common in clinical diagnoses of IDD, to improve understanding of complex IDD etiologies, to improve endpoints for clinical trials, and to monitor potential health concerns for individuals with IDD as they age.
Harmonising artistic designs with private and collective notions of home: a focus group study of older persons’ experiences of art in residential care specialised in dementia care
Authors: Dahlin-Ivanoff Synneve , Wikström Ewa , Gunn Maja , Lood Qarin
Published: February 2025

Background

Integrating art in residential care settings aims to create meaningful experiences and enhance the facility’s aesthetic as a home. However, the literature shows a gap, as the voices of older persons are largely absent. This study aimed to explore the views of older persons in residential care facilities specialised in dementia care regarding art and expressions of home. Older persons with cognitive impairments are frequently depicted as lacking meaningful contributions, limiting their opportunities to voice their opinions and influence their environment.

Methods

This study used a qualitative explorative design with focus group method, allowing older persons with dementia to discuss their views of art in relation to expressions of home. Eleven older persons participated in four focus groups. This method encourages interaction between participants, shedding light on a collective understanding.

Results

The study found that the residential care facility was perceived as a home by the participants, based on their descriptions of how both private and shared collective spaces in the facility fostered a dynamic sense of belonging. Art owned by the older persons often held personal value and they valued art for its intrinsic qualities, such as beauty, meaning, and expression. The perception of art differed between the private and collective spaces, and the discussions centered on aligning the artistic design with the participants’ notions of home to foster a socially engaging environment.

Conclusion

Clearly defined private and collective spaces seem to be crucial for fostering self-determination and a sense of belonging for older persons living in residential care facilities specialised in dementia care. A balance between private and collective spaces boosted social engagement, with art playing a key role in reflecting older persons’ previous lives, shared interests and experiences, with co-creation of artistic design ensuring a dynamic environment.
Students’ descriptions about experiences beneficial to mental health - a thematic analysis
Authors: Skoglund Anne , Hotham Sarah , Schröder Agneta , Moen Øyfrid Larsen
Published: February 2025

University years are an important transitional time for young adults. Recently, an increasing number of students have reported mental health problems. The increasing numbers are an international phenomenon. Qualitative research on mental health promotion for students is, however, scarce. The aim of this study is to explore students’ descriptions of experiences in their student life that are beneficial to mental health. A Norwegian project named “In my experience” collected descriptions, through the web-based tool Sensemaker, from students about experiences that have had an impact on their student life. This study explores the descriptions of experiences beneficial to students’ mental health that the students categorized as having had a positive or very positive impact on their student life. A total of 171 descriptions from students aged 18–29 were analyzed using thematic analysis. Two main themes were identified: becoming a student, which consisted of descriptions about the feeling of a new life as a student, and being a student, which described experiences with managing student life that were beneficial for mental health. Experiences such as being welcomed, being included, belonging to a social group, finding one’s own identity, maturing, and developing were all highlighted in the descriptions. Student societies and other forms of civic engagement and being accepted and included in an academic community were fundamental. A limitation of the study was the relatively low number of male participants, and further research on male students’ descriptions about beneficial experiences is needed.
Exploring a process-oriented way of working – a case study involving primary and specialised care
Authors: Poulsen Hanna Odén , Ros Axel , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Elg Mattias , Kilander Helena
Published: February 2025

Background

Health care organisations have a long history of dividing work and tasks into decentralised functions and units by forming divisions and departments with delegated power. New ways of working, such as process-oriented approaches, have been called for to address challenges such as staffing shortages and resource constraints. There is limited understanding of the interplays that will occur in health care organisations during a shift from a traditional decentralised structure to a process-oriented approach. This study aims to explore the perceptions of health care staff and leaders when introducing a process-oriented routine.

Method

We conducted interviews and focus groups with 29 participants in specialised and primary care in order to explore their experiences of a newly introduced routine regarding on-demand consultation, aimed at enhancing communication and patient coordination in a Swedish health care region. The participants included operating managers, schedulers and physicians. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis in accordance with Braun & Clark’s guidance.

Results

The findings encompass three main themes when introducing a process-oriented routine: Creates a readiness to act, The critical role of trust for adopting on-demand consultation in everyday practice and Challenges associated with transformation. The results show that health care staff and leaders are positive about the new way of working, but the readiness to act is challenged by issues of trust, as well as cultural components and structural factors such as experienced resource constraints.

Conclusion

Our results underscore the need to consider not only organisational aspects but also social and individual relational factors when introducing a process-oriented way of work into a decentralised and complex health care system.
Exploring the link between parvovirus B19 and encephalitis: a systematic review and comprehensive meta-analysis of molecular and serological evidence
Authors: Sharma Kashmi , Khandia Rekha , Shrivastava Rohan , Nema Ram K. , Mishra Somesh , Kanwar Rupinder K. , Raut Ashwin A. , Agrawal Amit , Gupta Vandana , Pandey Megha K.
Published: February 2025

Encephalitis, a severe brain inflammation, can arise due to various infectious agents, including viruses like Parvovirus B19 (B19V). Previously linked to mild neonatal and young one’s illnesses and some haematological diseases, recent evidence associates B19V with encephalitis, with no clear prevalence and mechanisms in place. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to determine the prevalence of B19V in cases of encephalitis, exploring variations associated with diagnostic approaches, and identifying gaps in existing research to enhance clinical comprehension and diagnostic methods. An extensive search (1994–2024) was performed through PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane databases for research and epidemiological investigations related to B19V in cases of encephalitis. Inclusion criteria focused on studies that verified B19V using molecular (PCR, NGS) or serological (IgM/IgG) techniques in cerebrospinal fluid or serum. Data analysis was done to pool the prevalence data of included studies using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was evaluated using I2 statistics. Sensitivity and meta-regression analyses were conducted to evaluate variability and the effects of moderators. A total of fourteen studies involving 3,135 encephalitis patients resulted in a combined prevalence of 3% (95% CI: 2–4%). Studies using PCR indicated a greater prevalence (3%) in comparison to ELISA (1%) and NGS (2%). A moderate level of heterogeneity (I2 = 57.4%) was attributed to the variability in diagnostic methods and geographic distribution. Sensitivity analyses validated strong estimates, while meta-regression revealed country as a key moderator accounting for heterogeneity. Publication bias was modest. The research indicates that B19V may be involved in certain encephalitis instances, with an overall prevalence of 3%. The differences observed in the studies emphasize the need for standardized diagnostic procedures and more extensive multicentric epidemiological research.
Huqi formula suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma growth by modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and promoting T cell infiltration
Authors: Yin Donghao , Li Xiang , Yang Xuemeng , Shang Xiaofei , Li Zhen , Geng Jiahao , Xu Yanyu , Xu Zijing , Wang Zixuan , Shang Zimeng , Yang Zhiyun , Hu Linlan , Li Quanwei , Wang Jiabo , Song Xinhua , Li Xiuhui , Wang Xiaojun
Published: February 2025

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) poses ongoing difficulties for public health systems due to its high incidence and poor prognosis. Huqi formula (HQF), a well-known prescription in traditional Chinese medicine, has demonstrated notable clinical effectiveness in the treatment of HCC. However, the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects have yet to be completely elucidated.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the anti-HCC effects of HQF and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Chemical profiling and quantification of HQF were conducted by LC–MS and HPLC. Orthotopic and subcutaneous tumor models were established through hydrodynamic injection of Akt/Nras plasmids and subcutaneous injection of c-Met/sgPten cells, respectively, to evaluate the therapeutic effects of HQF on HCC. Network pharmacology, RNA-Seq, molecular docking, Western blot, and flow cytometry were employed to assess the anti-HCC mechanisms.

Results

LC–MS analysis identified 41 components, with HPLC quantification showing salvianolic acid B as the most abundant compound (0.303%). In Akt/Nras and c-Met/sgPten-induced HCC models, HQF significantly reduced tissue damage, improved liver function, and inhibited HCC progression. Mechanistic studies revealed that HQF induced apoptosis in HCC cells by downregulating p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-mTOR expression, with molecular docking indicating the strongest binding affinity between salvianolic acid B and PI3K. HQF further enhanced CD4+ and CD8+ T cell infiltration within the tumor microenvironment. When combined with PD-1 therapy, HQF improved therapeutic efficacy against HCC. Finally, toxicity assays confirmed the safety profile of HQF.

Conclusion

HQF demonstrated significant anti-HCC effects and a synergistic effect with PD-1, could be used as an alternative therapeutic agent for HCC.

Graphical Abstract
Green Chemometric—assisted UV spectrophotometric techniques for the analysis of Helicobacter pylori triple therapy: amoxicillin, metronidazole and famotidine in bulk, individual and laboratory- prepared combined dosage forms: application to simulated gastric fluid with comprehensive greenness and whiteness appraisals
Authors: Maher Hadir M. , Mahgoub Hoda , Ragab Marwa A. A. , Tarek Salma
Published: February 2025

A significant variable in the genesis of peptic ulcers is Helicobacter pylori, which could be eliminated through several strategies. Amid them, there is a strategy based on receptor histamine-2 (e.g., famotidine) antagonist in conjunction with metronidazole and amoxicillin as antibiotics. This research used UV spectrophotometry paired with chemometrics to clarify the concurrent analysis of famotidine (FAM), amoxicillin (AMX) and metronidazole (MET) in bulk powder and mixed tablet formulations. The first derivative was calculated for determining FAM and MET. Nonetheless, the methods of double divisor ratio spectra and Fourier functions were incorporated for determining each of the three medications. The methods linearity was fine in the strength ranges of 3–20 µg mL−1 (FAM), 12–40 µg mL−1 (AMX) and 4 -20 µg mL−1 (MET), as shown by the correlation coefficient (0.9999). Analyzing the triple therapy of FAM, AMX and MET helped in the determination of the techniques' accuracy and precision which were done for both their synthetic and combined tablet mixture solutions, as well as in their combined tablet mixture solutions in simulated stomach fluid. Adopting UV spectrophotometry was advantageous over HPLC and HPTLC techniques for FAM, AMX and MET simultaneous determination. This can be attributed to better cost and time efficiency, lack of sophistication, less amounts of reagents and wastes and therefore better greenness when talking about UV spectrophotometry. Upon co-formulation of FAM, AMX and MET triple therapy, their routine analysis could benefit from the presented methodologies in quality control labs. Green Analytical Chemistry (GAC) as well as White Analytical Chemistry (WAC) were both employed for assessing the UV spectrophotometric methods that were described with an emphasis on the cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness of the suggested techniques. Moreover, the method was practically appraised employing Blue Applicability Grade Index (BAGI).