bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complete chloroplast genome sequences of the ornamental plant Prunus cistena and comparative and phylogenetic analyses with its closely related species
Authors: Feng Lijuan , Zhao Guopeng , An Mengmeng , Wang Chuanzeng , Yin Yanlei
Published: December 2023

Background

Prunus cistena is an excellent color leaf configuration tree for urban landscaping in the world, which has purplish red leaves, light pink flowers, plant shape and high ornamental value. Genomic resources for P. cistena are scarce, and a clear phylogenetic and evolutionary history for this species has yet to be elucidated. Here, we sequenced and analyzed the complete chloroplast genome of P. cistena and compared it with related species of the genus Prunus based on the chloroplast genome.

Results

The complete chloroplast genome of P. cistena is a 157,935 bp long typical tetrad structure, with an overall GC content of 36.72% and higher GC content in the in the inverted repeats (IR) regions than in the large single-copy (LSC) and small single-copy (SSC) regions. It contains 130 genes, including 85 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. The ycf3 and clpP genes have two introns, with the longest intron in the trnK-UUU gene in the LSC region. Moreover, the genome has a total of 253SSRs, with the mononucleotide SSRs being the most abundant. The chloroplast sequences and gene arrangements of P. cistena are highly conserved, with the overall structure and gene order similar to other Prunus species. The atpE, ccsA, petA, rps8, and matK genes have undergone significant positive selection in Prunus species. P. cistena has a close evolutionary relationship with P. jamasakura. The coding and IR regions are more conserved than the noncoding regions, and the chloroplast DNA sequences are highly conserved throughout the genus Prunus.

Conclusions

The current genomic datasets provide valuable information for further species identification, evolution, and phylogenetic research of the genus Prunus.
Diagnosis of behavioral symptoms as a predictor of institutionalization among Medicaid patients with dementia
Authors: Khandker Rezaul Karim , Chekani Farid , Mirchandani Kirti , Kathe Niranjan
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Behavioral symptoms are commonly observed in the course of dementia. This study aimed to assess the association of the diagnosis of a cluster of behavioral symptoms (e.g., agitation, aggression, psychotic symptoms, and delirium/wandering) with the likelihood of subsequent institutionalization.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of adults aged 65 and above diagnosed with dementia identified in the IBM® MarketScan® Multistate Medicaid database between October 01, 2015, and September 30, 2019, was conducted. The index date was defined as the first diagnosis date of dementia. The presence or absence of behavioral symptoms was identified in the 6 months prior to the index date (baseline). Institutionalization was evaluated 12 months (follow-up) post the index date. The association between diagnosed behavioral symptoms during the baseline period and institutionalization in the follow-up period was assessed using a multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for baseline sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

Results

The study cohort included 40,714 patients with dementia. A diagnosis of behavioral symptoms was found among 2,067 (5.1%) patients during the baseline period. An increased likelihood of institutionalization was found during the follow-up among patients with agitation and aggression in baseline (OR = 1.51 (95% CI: 1.18–1.92)) compared to patients without these symptoms at baseline. Patients with psychotic symptoms in baseline had significantly higher odds of getting institutionalized during the follow-up compared to patients without psychotic symptoms in baseline (OR = 1.36 (95% CI: 1.20–1.54)). Similarly, patients with symptoms of delirium and wandering in baseline had a higher likelihood of institutionalization than patients without these symptoms at baseline (OR = 1.61 (95% CI: 1.30–1.99)).

Conclusion

Several diagnosed behavioral symptoms were associated with a higher risk of institutionalization among older adults with dementia and should be considered when planning treatment strategies for the effective management of the condition.
Chlamydia psittaci Pneumonia in a patient with motor neuron disease: a case report
Authors: Luo Huade , Jiang Lingling , Chen Jie , Wang Dongying , Kong Yingying , Cao Guangli
Published: December 2023

Background

Motor neuron disease (MND) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that leads to progressive loss of motor neurons. Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci) is a rare etiology of community-acquired pneumonia characterized primarily by respiratory distress. We reported a case of C. psittaci pneumonia complicated with motor neuron disease (MND).

Case presentation

A 74-year-old male was referred to the Shaoxing Second Hospital at January, 2022 complaining of fever and fatigue for 2 days. The patient was diagnosed of MND with flail arm syndrome 1 year ago. The metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of sputum obtained through bedside fiberoptic bronchoscopy showed C. psittaci infection. Then doxycycline was administrated and bedside fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed to assist with sputum excretion. Computed Tomography (CT) and fiberoptic bronchoscopy revealed a significant decrease in sputum production. On day 24 after admission, the patient was discharged with slight dyspnea, limited exercise tolerance. One month later after discharge, the patient reported normal respiratory function, and chest CT showed significant absorption of sputum.

Conclusions

The mNGS combined with bedside fiberoptic bronchoscopy could timely detect C. psittaci infection. Bedside fiberoptic bronchoscopy along with antibiotic therapy may be effective for C. psittaci treatment.
The relationship between having a job and the outcome of brief therapy in patients with common mental disorders
Authors: van Oosten Ard J. , van Mens Kasper , Blonk Roland W. B. , Burdorf Alex , Tiemens Bea
Published: December 2023

Background

Previous studies have shown that being employed is associated not only with patients’ health but also with the outcome of their treatment for severe mental illness. This study examined what influence employment had on improvements in mental health and functioning among patients with common mental disorders who received brief treatment and how patients’ diagnosis, environmental and individual factors moderated the association between being employed and treatment outcome.

Methods

The study used naturalistic data from a cohort of patients in a large mental health franchise in the Netherlands. The data were obtained from electronic registration systems, intake questionnaires and Routine Outcome Monitoring (ROM). The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework was used to identify potential subgroups of patients. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the relationship between employment status and treatment outcome and to determine how the relationship differed among ICF subgroups of patients.

Results

A strong relationship was found between employment status and the outcome of brief therapy for patients with common mental disorders. After potential confounding variables had been controlled, patients who were employed were 54% more likely to recover compared to unemployed patients. Two significant interactions were identified. Among patients who were 60 years of age or younger, being employed was positively related to recovery, but this relationship disappeared in patients older than 60 years. Second, among patients in all living situations there was a positive effect of being employed on recovery, but this effect did not occur among children (18+) who were living with a single parent.

Conclusions

Being employed was positively associated with treatment outcome among both people with a severe mental illness and those with a common mental disorder (CMD). The main strength of this study was its use of a large dataset from a nationwide franchised company. Attention to work is important not only for people with a severe mental illness, but also for people with a CMD. This means that in addition to re-integration methods that focus on people with a severe mental illness, more interventions are needed for people with a CMD.
Investigation of predictors of severity of diabetes complications among hospitalized patients with diabetes in Florida, 2016–2019
Authors: Lord Jennifer , Reid Keshia , Duclos Chris , Mai Alan , Odoi Agricola
Published: December 2023

Background

Severe diabetes complications impact the quality of life of patients and may lead to premature deaths. However, these complications are preventable through proper glycemic control and management of risk factors. Understanding the risk factors of complications is important in guiding efforts to manage diabetes and reduce risks of its complications. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify risk factors of severe diabetes complications among adult hospitalized patients with diabetes in Florida.

Methods

Hospital discharge data from 2016 to 2019 were obtained from the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration through a Data Use Agreement with the Florida Department of Health. Adapted Diabetes Complications Severity Index (aDCSI) scores were computed for 1,061,140 unique adult patients with a diagnosis of diabetes. Severe complications were defined as those with an aDCSI ≥ 4. Population average models, estimated using generalized estimating equations, were used to identify individual- and area-level predictors of severe diabetes complications.

Results

Non-Hispanic Black patients had the highest odds of severe diabetes complications compared to non-Hispanic White patients among both males (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.20, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.17, 1.23) and females (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.31). Comorbidities associated with higher odds of severe complications included hypertension (OR = 2.30, 95% CI: 2.23, 2.37), hyperlipidemia (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.27, 1.31), obesity (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.21, 1.26) and depression (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.11), while the odds were lower for patients with a diagnosis of arthritis (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.79, 0.82). Type of health insurance coverage was associated with the severity of diabetes complications, with significantly higher odds of severe complications among Medicare (OR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.80, 1.90) and Medicaid (OR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.77, 1.90) patients compared to those with private insurance. Residing within the least socioeconomically deprived ZIP code tabulation areas (ZCTAs) in the state had a protective effect compared to residing outside of these areas.

Conclusions

Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in the severity of diabetes complications exist among hospitalized patients in Florida. The observed disparities likely reflect challenges to maintaining glycemic control and managing cardiovascular risk factors, particularly for patients with multiple chronic conditions. Interventions to improve diabetes management should focus on populations with disproportionately high burdens of severe complications to improve quality of life and decrease premature mortality among adult patients with diabetes in Florida.
The Cantabria Cohort, a protocol for a population-based cohort in northern Spain
Authors: Alonso-Peña Marta , Dierssen Trinidad , Marin Maria José , Alonso-Molero Jessica , Gómez-Acebo Inés , Santiuste Inés , Lazarus Jeffrey V. , Sanchez-Juan Pascual , Peralta Galo , Crespo Javier , Lopez-Hoyos Marcos ,   Cantabria Cohort Collaborators, Peleteiro-Vigil Ana , Lavin Gomez Bernardo Alio , Alvaro Melero Olga , Arias-Loste Maria Teresa , Batlle Ana , Cabezas Joaquin , Calvo Montes Jorge , Cayon de las Cuevas Joaquín , Conde Laura , Diego Gonzalez Lara , Fariñas Carmen , Fernandez Luis Sara , Fernandez Ortiz Maria , Garcia Blanco Santiago , Garcia Lopez Gema , Garcia Unzueta Maite , Garrido Gomez Jose Carlos , Gonzalez Raquel , Iruzubieta Paula , Martin Lazaro Jesus , Martin Ruiz Lucia , Martinez Magunacelaya Nerea , Martinez Santiago Raul , Medina Juan Manuel , Muruzabal Siges Maria Josefa , Padilla Ana , Peleteiro Ana , Reyes-González Luis , Ruiz David , Santos-Laso Alvaro , Sanz Piña Maria Elena , Sordo David , Solorzano Sergio , Tejido Rafael , Wallman Reinhard , Wunsch María
Published: December 2023

Cantabria Cohort stems from a research and action initiative lead by researchers from Valdecilla Research Institute (IDIVAL), Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital and University of Cantabria, supported by the regional Goverment. Its aim is to identify and follow up a cohort that would provide information to improve the understanding of the etiology and prognosis of different acute and chronic diseases. The Cantabria Cohort will recruit between 40,000–50,000 residents aged 40–69 years at baseline, representing 10–20% of the target population. Currently, more than 30,000 volunteers have been enrolled. All participants will be invited for a re-assessment every three years, while the overall duration is planned for twenty years. The repeated collection of biomaterials combined with broad information from participant questionnaires, medical examinations, actual health system records and other secondary public data sources is a major strength of its design, which will make it possible to address biological pathways of disease development, identify new factors involved in health and disease, design new strategies for disease prevention, and advance precision medicine. It is conceived to allow access to a large number of researchers worldwide to boost collaboration and medical research.
Identification of causes and consequences of Kolberi among Iranian Kurdish women: a grounded theory study
Authors: Yoosefi Lebni Javad , Irandoost Seyed Fahim , Ziapour Arash , Ahmadi Ahmad , Mehedi Nafiul , Azizi Seyyed Amar
Published: December 2023

Background

Women turn to Kolberi for various reasons, which cause numerous challenges for them. Thus, it is imperative to identify these causes and problems. Since no study has ever been undertaken to deal with this participant, the present research aims to identify the causes and consequences of Kolberi among Kurdish women in Iran.

Method

The present research uses the grounded theory approach to investigate 28 female Kurdish Kolbers. To achieve several participants, purposive, snowball, and theoretical sampling methods were used, while face-to-face semi-structured interviews were used to gather data. The process of data collection and analysis took 10 months, from April to December 2022. The data were analyzed using the Strauss and Corbin method and MAXQDA-20018 software. The Guba and Lincoln criteria were also met to increase the trustworthiness of the results.

Findings

Analysis of the data led to 143 initial codes, 31 subcategories, and 9 main categories: Causal condition (individual characteristics and economic factors); predisposing conditions (social and cultural factors, familial factors); intervening conditions (advantages and characteristics of Kolberi); strategies (strengthening compatibility with Kolberi); and consequences (individual problems, social problems and positive consequences).

Conclusion

Measures such as training occupational skills for women and providing employment conditions for them, increasing social, financial, and mental support for women without guardians, creating border markets, and expanding women's handicrafts can help prevent female Kolberi.
Perceptions of pregnant women on antenatal care visit during their first trimester at area 25 health center in Lilongwe, Malawi – a qualitative study
Authors: Nyando Modesta , Makombe Dziwenji , Mboma Alexander , Mwakilama Elias , Nyirenda Lot
Published: December 2023

Background

Initiation of antenatal care during the first trimester is crucial for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, only 24% of pregnant women in Malawi initiate antenatal care during this time with even lower rates of 15% at Area 25 Health Centre in Lilongwe. Despite such cases, there is little literature on obstacles that prevent women from accessing first-trimester antenatal care in Malawi.

Aim

To explore perceptions of pregnant women and how they influence antenatal care visits during the first trimester at Area 25 Health Centre in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Methods

We employed a qualitative exploratory study on 55 purposely identified participants. The participants were aged between 18 and 37 years with a gestational period of 36 weeks and below and attended antenatal care at Area 25 Health Centre in Lilongwe Urban, Malawi. Data were collected by MN and 2 data collectors from 19th March 2021 to 16th April 2021 through a total of 15 In-depth Interviews (IDIs) and four Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data were manually analysed using thematic analysis, which included categorization and deductive theme identification with reference to the study objectives and the Health Belief Model (HBM).

Results

Pregnant women perceived that the first-trimester antenatal care visits were only for those experiencing ill health conditions like backache, headache, and HIV/AIDS during pregnancy. First-trimester pregnancy was perceived as too small and not worthy of seeking antenatal care; the women placed a low value on it. The majority of those who initiated antenatal care in the first trimester had previously experienced disorders and complications such as previous cesarean sections and abortions. In addition to limited knowledge about the required total number of ANC visits, challenges such as long-distance, preoccupation with business, multiple antenatal visits, scheduling of antenatal care visits, negative attitude of health workers, adherence to COVID-19 containment measures, and inadequate partner support, were identified as barriers to seeking antenatal care during the first trimester.

Conclusion

The negative perceptions among pregnant women, coupled with various health systems, socio-economic and individual barriers, contributed to low attendance rates for first trimester antenatal care in Malawi. Addressing knowledge gaps and overcoming barriers related to economic, individual and health care delivery can improve women’s early antenatal care visits. Future research should consider the pregnant women from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to gain a better understanding of these perceptions and barriers.
A scoping review to identify and organize literature trends of bias research within medical student and resident education
Authors: Lewis Brianne E. , Naik Akshata R.
Published: December 2023

Background

Physician bias refers to the unconscious negative perceptions that physicians have of patients or their conditions. Medical schools and residency programs often incorporate training to reduce biases among their trainees. In order to assess trends and organize available literature, we conducted a scoping review with a goal to categorize different biases that are studied within medical student (MS), resident (Res) and mixed populations (MS and Res). We also characterized these studies based on their research goal as either documenting evidence of bias (EOB), bias intervention (BI) or both. These findings will provide data which can be used to identify gaps and inform future work across these criteria.

Methods

Online databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, WebofScience) were searched for articles published between 1980 and 2021. All references were imported into Covidence for independent screening against inclusion criteria. Conflicts were resolved by deliberation. Studies were sorted by goal: ‘evidence of bias’ and/or ‘bias intervention’, and by population (MS or Res or mixed) andinto descriptive categories of bias.

Results

Of the initial 806 unique papers identified, a total of 139 articles fit the inclusion criteria for data extraction. The included studies were sorted into 11 categories of bias and showed that bias against race/ethnicity, specific diseases/conditions, and weight were the most researched topics. Of the studies included, there was a higher ratio of EOB:BI studies at the MS level. While at the Res level, a lower ratio of EOB:BI was found.

Conclusions

This study will be of interest to institutions, program directors and medical educators who wish to specifically address a category of bias and identify where there is a dearth of research. This study also underscores the need to introduce bias interventions at the MS level.
The mediating role of coping styles between nurses’ workplace bullying and professional quality of life
Authors: Jiao Rui , Li Jinping , Cheng Nan , Liu Xiangying , Tan Yizhou
Published: December 2023

Aims

This study aimed to explore the relationship between workplace bullying among nurses and their professional quality of life, as well as the mediating role of coping styles between the two factors.

Background

In China, the overall status of nurses' professional quality of life is not optimistic, and the problems of low compassion satisfaction and high compassion fatigue persist. Workplace bullying, which is a serious global issue, can negatively impact the mental health and professional quality of nurses. However, it has still not attracted enough attention from managers.

Methods

The study used a cross-sectional research design and surveyed 297 clinical nurses from two tertiary grade A hospitals in Wuhan, China. Data were collected through an online questionnaire survey from March to May 2022. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, including Pearson correlation analysis and structural equation modeling.

Results

The score for nurses' workplace bullying was 38.72 ± 12.30. The scores for the three dimensions of professional quality of life were 27.56 ± 4.79 for compassion satisfaction, 30.51 ± 4.33 for burnout, and 28.47 ± 4.65 for secondary trauma stress. The scores for positive coping style and negative coping style were 34.59 ± 5.72 and 20.34 ± 5.08 points, respectively. Workplace bullying had a direct negative effect on compassion satisfaction, as well as positive direct effects on burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Coping styles played a mediating effect between workplace bullying and the pairwise relationships of compassion satisfaction, burnout, and secondary trauma stress.

Conclusion

Workplace bullying hurts nurses' professional quality of life while coping styles plays an mediating role between workplace bullying and professional quality of life. Nursing managers can improve nurses' professional quality of life by reducing workplace bullying and enhancing positive coping style.

Implications for nursing management

Nursing managers can employ management wisdom and techniques to mitigate the presence and detrimental effects of workplace bullying. This, in turn, promotes a positive work environment and enhances the professional quality of life for nurses.
Prognostic value of pretreatment lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio in patients with glioma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yan , Xu Chu , Zhang Zongxin
Published: December 2023

Background

Many studies have explored the prognostic role of the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) in patients with glioma, but the results have been inconsistent. We therefore conducted the current meta-analysis to identify the accurate prognostic effect of LMR in glioma.

Methods

The electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library were thoroughly searched from inception to July 25, 2023. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the prognostic role of LMR for glioma.

Results

A total of 16 studies comprising 3,407 patients were included in this meta-analysis. A low LMR was significantly associated with worse overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.13–1.61, p = 0.001) in glioma. However, there was no significant correlation between LMR and progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 0.75–1.91, p = 0.442) in glioma patients. Subgroup analysis indicated that a low LMR was significantly associated with inferior OS and PFS in glioma when using a cutoff value of ≤ 3.7 or when patients received mixed treatment.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis demonstrated that a low LMR was significantly associated with poor OS in glioma. There was no significant correlation between LMR and PFS in glioma patients. The LMR could be a promising and cost-effective prognostic biomarker in patients with glioma in clinical practice.
Examining the disparities of anti-malarial drug consumption among children under the age of five: a study of 5 malaria-endemic countries
Authors: Hossain Md Sabbir , Ahmed Talha Sheikh , Sultana Nahid , Chowdhury Muhammad Abdul Baker , Uddin Md Jamal
Published: December 2023

Background

Malaria is one of the most prominent illnesses affecting children, ranking as one of the key development concerns for many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). There is not much information available on the use of anti-malarial drugs in LMICs in children under five. The study aimed to investigate disparities in anti-malarial drug consumption for malaria among children under the age of five in LMICs.

Methods

This study used recent available cross-sectional data from the Malaria Indicator Survey (MIS) datasets across five LMICs (Guinea, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone), which covered a portion of sub-Saharan Africa. The study was carried out between January 2, 2023, and April 15, 2023, and included children under the age of five who had taken an anti-malarial drug for malaria 2 weeks before the survey date. The outcome variable was anti-malarial drug consumption, which was classified into two groups: those who had taken anti-malarial drugs and those who had not.

Results

In the study of LMICs, 32,397 children under five were observed, and among them, 44.1% had received anti-malarial drugs. Of the five LMICs, Kenya had the lowest (9.2%) and Mali had the highest (70.5%) percentages of anti-malarial drug consumption. Children under five with malaria are more likely to receive anti-malarial drugs if they are over 1 year old, live in rural areas, have mothers with higher education levels, and come from wealthier families.

Conclusion

The study emphasizes the importance of developing universal coverage strategies for anti-malarial drug consumption at both the national and local levels. The study also recommends that improving availability and access to anti-malarial drugs may be necessary, as the consumption of these drugs for treating malaria in children under the age of five is shockingly low in some LMICs.
Measuring health equity in the ASEAN region: conceptual framework and assessment of data availability
Authors: Barcellona Capucine , Mariñas Yzabel Bryanna , Tan Si Ying , Lee Gabriel , Ko Khin Chaw , Chham Savina , Chhorvann Chhea , Leerapan Borwornsom , Pham Tien Nam , Lim Jeremy
Published: December 2023

Background

Existing research on health equity falls short of identifying a comprehensive set of indicators for measurement across health systems. Health systems in the ASEAN region, in particular, lack a standardised framework to assess health equity. This paper proposes a comprehensive framework to measure health equity in the ASEAN region and highlights current gaps in data availability according to its indicator components.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to map out a core set of indicators to evaluate health equity at the health system level. Secondary data collection was subsequently conducted to assess current data availability for ASEAN states in key global health databases, national health accounts, and policy documents.

Results

A robust framework to measure health equity was developed comprising 195 indicators across Health System Inputs and Processes, Outputs, Outcomes, and Contextual Factors. Total indicator data availability equated to 72.9% (1423/1950). Across the ASEAN region, the Inputs and Processes sub-component of Health Financing had complete data availability for all indicators (160/160, 100%), while Access to Essential Medicine had the least data available (6/30, 20%). Under Outputs and Outcomes, Coverage of Selected Interventions (161/270, 59.63%) and Population Health (350/350, 100%) respectively had the most data available, while other indicator sub-components had little to none (≤ 38%). 72.145% (384/530) of data is available for all Contextual Factors. Out of the 10 ASEAN countries, the Philippines had the highest data availability overall at 77.44% (151/195), while Brunei Darussalam and Vietnam had the lowest data availability at 67.18% (131/195).

Conclusions

The data availability gaps highlighted in this study underscore the need for a standardised framework to guide data collection and benchmarking of health equity in ASEAN. There is a need to prioritise regular data collection for overlooked indicator areas and in countries with low levels of data availability. The application of this indicator framework and resulting data availability analysis could be conducted beyond ASEAN to enable cross-regional benchmarking of health equity.
SCO-spondin knockout mice exhibit small brain ventricles and mild spine deformation
Authors: Xu Huixin , Dugué Guillaume P. , Cantaut-Belarif Yasmine , Lejeune François-Xavier , Gupta Suhasini , Wyart Claire , Lehtinen Maria K.
Published: December 2023

Reissner’s fiber (RF) is an extracellular polymer comprising the large monomeric protein SCO-spondin (SSPO) secreted by the subcommissural organ (SCO) that extends through cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-filled ventricles into the central canal of the spinal cord. In zebrafish, RF and CSF-contacting neurons (CSF-cNs) form an axial sensory system that detects spinal curvature, instructs morphogenesis of the body axis, and enables proper alignment of the spine. In mammalian models, RF has been implicated in CSF circulation. However, challenges in manipulating Sspo, an exceptionally large gene of 15,719 nucleotides, with traditional approaches has limited progress. Here, we generated a Sspo knockout mouse model using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome-editing. Sspo knockout mice lacked RF-positive material in the SCO and fibrillar condensates in the brain ventricles. Remarkably, Sspo knockout brain ventricle sizes were reduced compared to littermate controls. Minor defects in thoracic spine curvature were detected in Sspo knockouts, which did not alter basic motor behaviors tested. Altogether, our work in mouse demonstrates that SSPO and RF regulate ventricle size during development but only moderately impact spine geometry.
Effect of storage time of paraffin sections on the expression of PD-L1 (SP142) in invasive breast cancer
Authors: He Jiankun , Wang Xinran , Cai Lijing , Jia Zhanli , Liu Chang , Sun Xuemei , Wu Si , Ding Chunyan , Zhang Zi , Liu Yueping
Published: December 2023

Background

PD-L1 staining using long-stored paraffin sections may not be consistent with the true PD-L1 expression of patients. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the expression of PD-L1(SP142) in paraffin sections of invasive breast cancer with different storage times and the optimal storage temperature for unstained paraffin sections.

Methods

The study included 71 cases of PD-L1(SP142) positive breast cancer. The unstained paraffin sections were stored at room temperature conditions (20–25 °C), 4 °C, -20 °C and − 80 °C, respectively. PD-L1 staining was performed at 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks of storage. PD-L1 expression was assessed with a continuity score.

Results

The PD-L1 antigen was gradually lost as the storage time of paraffin sections increased. The PD-L1 positivity rate was 97.18% at 1 week for the sections stored at room temperature, and decreased from 83.10 to 71.83% for the sections stored for 2 weeks to 4 weeks, and 61.97%, 54.93%, and 32.93% for 8, 12, and 24 weeks, respectively. When stored at low temperatures of 4 °C, -20 °C and − 80 °C, the positivity rate decreases with the same trend but more slowly compared to room temperature. The mean IC score of PD-L1 also showed a gradual decrease in all cases. In the consistency analysis, PD-L1 expression in slices stored at room temperature for 2 weeks was consistent with PD-L1 expression in fresh slices (ICC ≥ 0.9 for all slices), and PD-L1 expression in slices stored at 4 °C or -20 °C for 4 weeks was consistent with PD-L1 expression in fresh slices (ICC ≥ 0.9 for all slices). When stored under refrigeration at -80 °C, PD-L1 expression in slices stored for 3 weeks was consistent with that in fresh slices (ICC ≥ 0.9).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first article on the effect of preservation time and preservation temperature of paraffin sections on PD-L1 expression in breast cancer. Long-term storage of paraffin sections of unstained invasive breast cancer can lead to antigen loss of PD-L1 (SP142). Refrigerated storage of paraffin sections can delay antigen loss, with best results at 4 °C or -20 °C, and a storage time of no more than 4 weeks is recommended.
A quantitative survey measure of moral evaluations of patient substance misuse among health professionals in California, urban France, and urban China
Authors: Lee Anna Yu , Lehmann Curtis , Zhou Pengchong , Xie Bin , Reynolds Kim D. , Stacy Alan W.
Published: December 2023

Background

The merits and drawbacks of moral relevance models of addiction have predominantly been discussed theoretically, without empirical evidence of these potential effects. This study develops and evaluates a novel survey measure for assessing moral evaluations of patient substance misuse (ME-PSM).

Methods

This measure was tested on 524 health professionals (i.e., physicians, nurses, and other health professionals) in California (n = 173), urban France (n = 102), and urban China (n = 249). Demographic factors associated with ME-PSM were investigated using analyses of variance (ANOVAs) and t-tests, with results suggesting that ME-PSM is higher among younger health professionals, nurses (when compared with physicians and other health professionals), and Chinese health professionals (when compared with French and American health professionals).

Results

Results provide preliminary support for the psychometric quality of the survey measure introduced in this study, including the existence of a single latent structure and partial invariance of collected data across countries.

Conclusion

The survey measure for ME-PSM which was developed and tested in the current study appears to hold potential utility for use as a measure of moral views of patient substance misuse. With development, this measure may be used to examine moral evaluations, both as factors of stigma and of other clinical factors associated with the treatment of patients with substance use disorders.
Validation and psychometric testing of the Arabic version of the mental health literacy scale among the Saudi Arabian general population
Authors: BinDhim Nasser F. , Althumiri Nora A. , Ad-Dab’bagh Yasser , Alqahtani Mohammed M. J. , Alshayea Ahmad Kassab , Al-Luhaidan Sulaiman M. , Svendrovski Anton , Al-Duraihem Rashed Abdullah , Alhabeeb Abdulhameed Abdullah
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study aimed to validate the Arabic Version of the Mental Health Literacy Scale (Arabic-MHLS) among the Saudi Arabian general population, assessing its internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and structural validity.

Methods

A total of 700 Arabic-speaking Saudi adults were randomly selected to complete the electronic questionnaire in May 2023, which generated 544 participants. Data were coded and stored in the ZdataCloud research data collection system database. Test-retest reliability was assessed using a subsample of 48 participants who completed the questionnaire twice, with a one-week interval. Structural validity was examined using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA).

Results

The Arabic-MHLS demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.87) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.89). EFA revealed a four-factor model closely resembling the model identified in the Slovenian validation of MHLS, with factor loadings ranging from 0.40 to 0.85. The four factors included knowledge of mental health disorders, knowledge of help-seeking, knowledge of self-help strategies, and knowledge of professional help also showed good internal consistency.

Conclusion

The Arabic-MHLS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing mental health literacy in the Saudi Arabian general population. However, further research is needed to refine the measurement tool and understand the complex relationships between mental health literacy and other mental health-related concepts. This will contribute to the development of targeted interventions and policies aimed at improving mental health literacy and promoting mental well-being in the Saudi Arabian population and beyond.
SNORA56-mediated pseudouridylation of 28 S rRNA inhibits ferroptosis and promotes colorectal cancer proliferation by enhancing GCLC translation
Authors: Xu Chang , Bian Zhixuan , Wang Xinyue , Niu Na , Liu Li , Xiao Yixuan , Zhu Jiabei , Huang Nan , Zhang Yue , Chen Yan , Wu Qi , Sun Fenyong , Zhu Xiaoli , Pan Qiuhui
Published: December 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies and is characterized by reprogrammed metabolism. Ferroptosis, a programmed cell death dependent on iron, has emerged as a promising strategy for CRC treatment. Although small nucleolar RNAs are extensively involved in carcinogenesis, it is unclear if they regulate ferroptosis during CRC pathogenesis.

Methods

The dysregulated snoRNAs were identified using published sequencing data of CRC tissues. The expression of the candidate snoRNAs, host gene and target gene were assessed by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blots. The biological function of critical molecules was investigated using in vitro and in vivo strategies including Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8), colony formation assay, flow cytometry, Fe2+/Fe3+, GSH/GSSG and the xenograft mice models. The ribosomal activities were determined by polysome profiling and O-propargyl-puromycin (OP-Puro) assay. The proteomics was conducted to clarify the downstream targets and the underlying mechanisms were validated by IHC, Pearson correlation analysis, protein stability and rescue assays. The clinical significance of the snoRNA was explored using the Cox proportional hazard model, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and survival analysis.

Results

Here, we investigated the SNORA56, which was elevated in CRC tissues and plasma, and correlated with CRC prognosis. SNORA56 deficiency in CRC impaired proliferation and triggered ferroptosis, resulting in reduced tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, SNORA56 mediated the pseudouridylation of 28 S rRNA at the U1664 site and promoted the translation of the catalytic subunit of glutamate cysteine ligase (GCLC), an indispensable rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of glutathione, which can inhibit ferroptosis by suppressing lipid peroxidation.

Conclusions

Therefore, the SNORA56/28S rRNA/GCLC axis stimulates CRC progression by inhibiting the accumulation of cellular peroxides, and it may provide biomarker and therapeutic applications in CRC.
Neurobiomechanical mechanism of Tai Chi to improve upper limb coordination function in post-stroke patients: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xie Qiurong , Wu Jinsong , Zhang Qi , Zhang Yanxin , Sheng Bo , Wang Xiaoling , Huang Jia
Published: December 2023

Background

Upper limb dysfunction seriously affects the ability of stroke patients to perform activities of daily living. As a popular exercise therapy, Tai Chi may become an alternative intervention. However, the neurophysiological mechanism by which Tai Chi improves upper limb dysfunction in stroke patients is still unclear, which limits its further promotion and application. Therefore, conducting a strict randomized clinical trial is necessary to observe how Tai Chi affects upper limb dysfunction in stroke patients and to explore its neurophysiological mechanism.

Methods/design

This report describes a randomized, parallel-controlled trial with distributive concealment and evaluator blinding. A total of 84 eligible participants will be randomly assigned to the Tai Chi group or the control group in a 1:1 ratio. The participants in the Tai Chi group will receive 4 weeks of Tai Chi training: five 60-min sessions a week for a total of 20 sessions. The participants in the control group will not receive Tai Chi training. Both groups will receive medical treatment and routine rehabilitation training. The primary outcome measure is the mean change in the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) scale score between baseline and 4 weeks; the secondary outcomes are the mean changes in kinematic characteristics and the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) scores. In addition, the corticomuscular coupling level and near-infrared brain functional imaging will be monitored to explore the mechanism by which Tai Chi improves upper limb function of stroke patients.

Discussion

This randomized controlled trial will examine the effectiveness of Tai Chi in stroke patients with upper limb dysfunction and explore the neurophysiological mechanism. Positive results will verify that Tai Chi can improve upper limb function of stroke patients.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registration Center, ChiCTR2200061376 (retrospectively registered). Registered June 22, 2022. http://www.chictr.org.cn/listbycreater.aspx. Manuscript Version: 3.0 Manuscript Date: October 10, 2023.
Integrative taxonomy of Metastrongylus spp. in wild boars from Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Wilson Junior , Perin Patricia Parreira , Arias Pacheco Carmen Andrea , Mendonça Talita Oliveira , de Souza Pollo Andressa , do Amaral Renan Bressianini , de Oliveira Zolla Natália , de Oliveira Andrade Lívia , Gomes Jonathan Silvestre , dos Santos Vitória Maximiana Soares , de Moraes Ferreira Adrian Felipe , Lux Hoppe Estevam Guilherme
Published: December 2023

Background

Wild boars (Sus scrofa) may cause substantial damage to crops and can spread zoonotic parasites to domestic animals, posing a risk to health and animal production. Metastrongylus spp. can negatively affect the wild boar population, increasing piglet mortality. In addition to that, studies with Metastrongylus genetic characterization are still scarce in Brazil. The present study aims to characterize Metastrongylus spp. from wild boars hunted in the states of São Paulo, Paraná, and Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, using traditional morphological description and DNA sequences in an integrative taxonomic approach.

Methods

After nematode collection from 58 wild boars, the parasites were morphologically identified and genetically characterized by the amplification of 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA), 28S rDNA, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, and cox-1 mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Descriptors of infection were determined and Pearson's Chi-square test was applied to compare the prevalence of infections among the identified parasite species, host age group (juveniles and adults), and sex. The Mann–Whitney U test was performed to compare the mean intensity between the age groups and sex.

Results

Metastrongylus salmi, Metastrongylus apri, and Metastrongylus pudendotectus were identified in 77.6% (45/58) of the necropsied wild boars. Metastrongylus salmi was the most prevalent and abundant species (70.7%, 11.1), followed by M. pudendotectus (18.9%, 4.3) and M. apri (17.2%, 2.2). Metastrongylus pudendotectus showed the highest mean intensity and range (25.2, 1–93), followed by M. salmi (15.7, 1–58) and M. apri (12.6, 3–27). We found a significantly higher prevalence of Metastrongylus spp. and M. salmi in adult wild boars, probably associated with a more prolonged time of exposure to intermediate host species. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that ITS2 region and cox-1 mtDNA are the most suitable genetic markers for Metastrongylus species characterization. Genetic variability between M. apri and M. salmi isolates was verified.

Conclusions

We expand the knowledge about the Metastrongylus community in the non-captive wild boar population from Brazil as well as the importance of this exotic species in the maintenance of Metastrongylus spp. in its areas of occurrence. The novel genetic sequences obtained may help further studies to understand the genetic diversity in other nematode populations from Brazil and other countries.

Graphical Abstract
CRX haploinsufficiency compromises photoreceptor precursor translocation and differentiation in human retinal organoids
Authors: Pan Deng , Zhang Xiao , Jin Kangxin , Jin Zi-Bing
Published: December 2023

Background

The CRX-associated autosomal dominant retinopathies suggest a possible pathogenic mechanism of gene haploinsufficiency. However, based on reported human patient cases and studies with mouse models, it is hard to confirm the specific weight of haploinsufficiency in pathogenesis due to the interspecies gaps between gene expression and function.

Methods

We created monoallelic CRX by replacing one allele with tdTomato in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and subsequently dissect pathogenesis in hESCs-derived retinal organoids. We used transcriptome and immunofluorescence analyses to dissect phenotypic differences between CRX-monoallelic knockout and control wildtype organoids. For location analysis of CRX+ cells, a CRX-expression-tracing system was constructed in control hESCs. We implemented long-term live-cell imaging to describe the translocation of CRX+ cells between two groups in early organoid differentiation. The expression pattern of these dynamic differences was validated using RNA-seq and immunofluorescence assays.

Results

We identified delayed differentiation of outer nuclear layer (ONL) stratification along with thinner ONL, serious loss of photoreceptor outer segments, as well as downregulated expression of gene for phototransduction and inner/outer segment formation. By live-cell imaging and immunostaining, we observed the overtension of actomyosin network and the arrested translocation of monoallelic CRX+ cells in the early stage of retinal differentiation.

Conclusions

We confirmed that gene haploinsufficiency is the mechanism for the dominant pathogenicity of CRX and discovered that CRX regulated postmitotic photoreceptor precursor translocation in addition to its specification of photoreceptor cell fates during human retinal development. These findings revealed a new underlying mechanism of CRX dominant pathogenesis and provided a new clue for the treatment of CRX-associated human retinopathies.