bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polygenic Risk Score for Coronary Artery Disease Improves the Prediction of Early-Onset Myocardial Infarction and Mortality in Men
Authors: Manikpurage Hasanga D. , Eslami Aida , Perrot Nicolas , Li Zhonglin , Couture Christian , Mathieu Patrick , Bossé Yohan , Arsenault Benoit J. , Thériault Sébastien
Published: October 2021

Background:

Several risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD) have been described, some of which are genetically determined. The use of a polygenic risk score (PRS) could improve CAD risk assessment, but predictive accuracy according to age and sex is not well established.

Methods:

A PRS
CAD
including the weighted effects of >1.14 million single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with CAD was calculated in UK Biobank (n=408 422), using LDpred. Cox regressions were performed, stratified by age quartiles and sex, for incident myocardial infarction (MI) and mortality, with a median follow-up of 11.0 years. Improvement in risk prediction of MI was assessed by comparing PRS
CAD
to the pooled cohort equation with categorical net reclassification index using a 2% threshold (NRI
0.02
) and continuous NRI (NRI
>0
).

Results:

From 7746 incident MI cases and 393 725 controls, hazard ratio for MI reached 1.53 (95% CI, 1.49–1.56;
P
=2.69×10
−296
) per SD increase of PRS
CAD
. PRS
CAD
was significantly associated with MI in both sexes, with a stronger association in men (interaction
P
=0.002), particularly in those aged between 40 and 51 years (hazard ratio, 2.00 [95% CI, 1.86–2.16],
P
=1.93×10
−72
). This group showed the highest reclassification improvement, mainly driven by the up-classification of cases (NRI
0.02
, 0.199 [95% CI, 0.157–0.248] and NRI
>0
, 0.602 [95% CI, 0.525–0.683]). From 23 982 deaths, hazard ratio for mortality was 1.08 (95% CI, 1.06–1.09;
P
=5.46×10
−30
) per SD increase of PRS
CAD
, with a stronger association in men (interaction
P
=1.60×10
−6
).

Conclusions:

Our PRS
CAD
predicts MI incidence and all-cause mortality, especially in men aged between 40 and 51 years. PRS could optimize the identification and management of individuals at risk for CAD.
Quexistentials and Focus
Authors: Hengeveld Kees , Iatridou Sabine , Roelofsen Floris
Published: October 2021

Many languages have words that can be interpreted either as question words or as existentials. We call such words quexistentials. It has been claimed in the literature (e.g., Haida 2007) that, across languages, quexistentials are (a) always focused on their interrogative interpretation and (b) never focused on their existential interpretation. We refer to this as the quexistential-focus biconditional. The article makes two contributions. The first is that we offer a possible explanation for one direction of the biconditional: the fact that quexistentials are generally contrastively focused on their interrogative use. We argue that this should be seen as a particular instance of an even more general fact—namely, that interrogative words (quexistential or not) are always contrastively focused—and propose an account for this fact. The second contribution of the article concerns the other direction of the biconditional. We present evidence that, at least at face value, suggests that focus on a quexistential does not necessarily preclude an existential interpretation. Specifically, we show that it is possible for Dutch wat to be interpreted existentially even when it is focused. We attempt to explain this phenomenon.
Agreement Shift in Embedded Reports
Authors: Ganenkov Dmitry
Published: October 2021

The article discusses person agreement in embedded reports in Aqusha Dargwa (Nakh-Daghestanian). In contrast to root clauses, which have obligatory person agreement matching the features of the controller, finite embedded reports allow pronoun-agreement mismatches, such as third person agreement in the presence of a first person singular subject or first person singular agreement in the presence of a third person subject. I argue that person agreement in Aqusha can function in two different modes—plain ϕ-feature mode and logophoric mode—depending on whether person morphology responds to usual morphological person features or to discourse-related logophoric features. Concentrating on the logophoric mode, I propose that the left periphery of finite embedded reports contains a logophoric complementizer that carries the discourse feature [LOG] and a null pronominal in its specifier specified as [ATTITUDE HOLDER].
Mediating Capitalism’s ‘Rules of Reproduction’ with Historical Agency
Authors: Evans Jessica
Published: October 2021

This article responds to Samuel Knafo and Benno Teschke’s recent critique of Political Marxism and their proposal for an alternative, ‘radical agency-centred’ historicism. While sympathetic to the critiques raised by the authors, I am less convinced by the conclusions they reach. Rather than abandon Political Marxism altogether, I argue that there remains much of value in the tradition. Through an analysis of the differential path of capitalist development in settler-colonial Canada, I suggest that bringing the methodological insights of Uneven and Combined Development to bear on the theoretical material of Political Marxism can alleviate the problems identified by the authors.
Why the All-Affected Principle Is Groundless
Authors: Bengtson Andreas , Lippert-Rasmussen Kasper
Published: October 2021

The all-affected principle is a widely accepted solution to the problem of constituting the demos. Despite its popularity, a basic question in relation to the principle has not received much attention: why does the fact that an individual is affected by a certain decision ground a right to inclusion in democratic decision-making about that matter? An answer to this question must include a reason that explains why an affected individual should be included because she is affected. We identify three such reasons in the literature – to wit, interest protection, self-government and welfare – and show why they all fail. We then propose two alternative reasons, equal relations and fairness, and show why they are also deficient. Surprisingly, the all-affected principle then appears groundless, which supports withholding belief in the all-affected principle or(/and) investing future research in identifying the thus-far unidentified reason why being affected grounds a claim to inclusion.
Amolops caelumnoctis Rao & Wilkinson, 2007, a Junior Synonym of A. splendissimus Orlov & Ho, 2007 (Amphibia: Anura: Ranidae)
Authors: ZHANG YINPENG , ROWLEY JODI J. L. , LIU XIAOLONG , NGUYEN TAO THIEN , NGUYEN HUY QUOC , TAPLEY BENJAMIN , NGUYEN LUAN THANH , YANG YUN , CUTAJAR TIMOTHY , ZHANG YING , YUAN ZHIYONG
Published: October 2021

Amolops splendissimus Orlov and Ho, 2007 and A. caelumnoctis Rao and Wilkinson, 2007 were described almost simultaneously from either side of the China-Vietnam border. The two species share a strong morphological resemblance, and their taxonomic distinctiveness has been questioned, yet no one has confirmed the taxonomic relationship and status between the two taxa. To resolve this taxonomic issue, we collected additional topotypic and near-topotypic specimens of A. splendissimus and A. caelumnoctis from both China (A. caelumnoctis: Wenshan County, Yunnan Province; type locality Luchun County, Yunnan Province), and Vietnam (A. splendissimus: Tam Duong District, Lai Chau Province; type locality Mount Ky Quan San, Bat Xat, Lao Cai Province). Molecular analysis based on a 16S rRNA fragment revealed minimal genetic divergences between the two taxa (0.0%–0.4% uncorrected p-distance), and both species are closely related to A. viridimaculatus (2.1%–2.3%) and A. medogensis (3.5%–3.7%). Morphological comparisons between the newly collected specimens and the original descriptions of both species further support the lack of distinctiveness of the two species, hence, we conclude that A. caelumnoctis is a junior synonym of A. splendissimus.
Molecular systematics and genital morphology of the Neotropical cockroaches from the genus Xestoblatta (Blattellidae)
Authors: VÉLEZ-BRAVO ANDRÉS , DAZA JUAN M.
Published: October 2021

The Neotropics harbors a tremendous diversity of cockroaches yet their evolutionary history is largely unknown. We reconstructed for the first time the phylogeny of the Neotropical genus Xestoblatta Hebard using mitochondrial and nuclear genes from 12 species distributed in Central America and northern South America. Additionally, we conducted a morphological analysis of external characters and male genitalia. In the phylogenetic analysis we recovered the genus Xestoblatta as non-monophyletic, resulting in three unrelated lineages. From the morphological variability described here, we identified three different morphological groups matching the phylogenetic results. The phylogenetic relationships of the three lineages within the Blattellidae were partially resolved. Lineage 1 was nested within a supported clade corresponding to the tribes Blattellini + Symplocini, while lineages 2 and 3 nested within the clade corresponding to the tribe Pseudomopini. Based on our results, we propose to divide Xestoblatta (sensu lato) into three monophyletic genera: Antroxestoblatta gen.n., Sinatablatta gen.n., and Xestoblatta (sensu stricto). We also describe a new species Sinatablatta magdalenensis sp.n. and propose a taxonomic rearrangement for Xestoblatta (sensu lato).
Three new Zodarion species (Araneae: Zodariidae) from Southeastern Turkey
Authors: COŞAR ILHAN , DANIŞMAN TARIK
Published: October 2021

Three new species of zodariid spiders are described from Turkey: Zodarion ozkutuki spec. nov., Zodarion turkesi spec. nov. and Zodarion yagmuri spec. nov. New photographs of genitalia are provided for Zodarion van Bosmans 2009.
Car Ownership and the Built Environment: A Spatial Modeling Approach
Authors: Laviolette Jerome , Morency Catherine , Waygood Owen D. , Goulias Konstadinos G.
Published: October 2021

Car ownership is linked to higher car use, which leads to important environmental, social and health consequences. As car ownership keeps increasing in most countries, it remains relevant to examine what factors and policies can help contain this growth. This paper uses an advanced spatial econometric modeling framework to investigate spatial dependences in household car ownership rates measured at fine geographical scales using administrative data of registered vehicles and census data of household counts for the Island of Montreal, Canada. The use of a finer level of spatial resolution allows for the use of more explanatory variables than previous aggregate models of car ownership. Theoretical considerations and formal testing suggested the choice of the Spatial Durbin Error Model (SDEM) as an appropriate modeling option. The final model specification includes sociodemographic and built environment variables supported by theory and achieves a Nagelkerke pseudo-R2 of 0.93. Despite the inclusion of those variables the spatial linear models with and without lagged explanatory variables still exhibit residual spatial dependence. This indicates the presence of unobserved autocorrelated factors influencing car ownership rates. Model results indicate that sociodemographic variables explain much of the variance, but that built environment characteristics, including transit level of service and local commercial accessibility (e.g., to grocery stores) are strongly and negatively associated with neighborhood car ownership rates. Comparison of estimates between the SDEM and a non-spatial model indicates that failing to control for spatial dependence leads to an overestimation of the strength of the direct influence of built environment variables.
Development of a 3‐Dimensional Middle Ear Model to Teach Anatomy and Endoscopic Ear Surgical Skills
Authors: Jenks Carolyn M. , Patel Vir , Bennett Brittany , Dunham Brian , Devine Conor M.
Published: October 2021

Mastery of ear anatomy and otologic surgical skills is challenging for trainees, and educational resources are limited. Advancements in 3‐dimensional (3D) printing have enabled the construction of complex microscopic models. Otoendoscopy provides excellent visualization and has been shown to enhance anatomic learning. Our aim was to develop a 3D model of the middle ear and external auditory canal using computed tomography images of a pediatric temporal bone for use with otoendoscopes. Resulting models are life sized, anatomically accurate, and allow for identification of relevant middle ear structures. Forty‐six trainees were recruited for a pilot study and randomized to study using the model or standard resources. There were no differences in pretest, posttest, or 1‐week posttest performance between groups; however, trainees assigned to the model reported higher prospective interest, satisfaction, and subjective improvement. This model may be used with otoendoscopes for anatomic and surgical training and represents an advancement in otologic surgical simulation.
Gynecologic and obstetric management of women with von Willebrand disease: summary of 3 systematic reviews of the literature
Authors: Brignardello-Petersen Romina , El Alayli Abdallah , Husainat Nedaa , Kalot Mohamad A. , Shahid Shaneela , Aljabirii Yazan , Britt Alec , Alturkmani Hani , El-Khechen Hussein , Motaghi Shahrzad , Roller John , Abdul-Kadir Rezan , Couper Susie , Kouides Peter , Lavin Michelle , Ozelo Margareth C. , Weyand Angela , James Paula D. , Connell Nathan T. , Flood Veronica H. , Mustafa Reem A.
Published: October 2021

von Willebrand disease (VWD) disproportionately affects women because of the potential for heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), delivery complications, and postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). To systematically synthesize the evidence regarding first-line management of HMB, treatment of women requiring or desiring neuraxial analgesia, and management of PPH. We searched Medline and EMBASE through October 2019 for randomized trials, comparative observational studies, and case series comparing the effects of desmopressin, hormonal therapy, and tranexamic acid (TxA) on HMB; comparing different von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels in women with VWD who were undergoing labor and receiving neuraxial anesthesia; and measuring the effects of TxA on PPH. We conducted duplicate study selection, data abstraction, and appraisal of risk of bias. Whenever possible, we conducted meta-analyses. We assessed the quality of the evidence using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach. We included 1 randomized trial, 3 comparative observational studies, and 10 case series. Moderate-certainty evidence showed that desmopressin resulted in a smaller reduction of menstrual blood loss (difference in mean change from baseline, 41.6 [95% confidence interval, 16.6-63.6] points in a pictorial blood assessment chart score) as compared with TxA. There was very-low-certainty evidence about how first-line treatments compare against each other, the effects of different VWF levels in women receiving neuraxial anesthesia, and the effects of postpartum administration of TxA. Most of the evidence relevant to the gynecologic and obstetric management of women with VWD addressed by most guidelines is very low quality. Future studies that address research priorities will be key when updating such guidelines.
Systemic administration of choline acetyltransferase decreases blood pressure in murine hypertension
Authors: Stiegler Andrew , Li Jian-Hua , Shah Vivek , Tsaava Tea , Tynan Aisling , Yang Huan , Tamari Yehuda , Brines Michael , Tracey Kevin J. , Chavan Sangeeta S.
Published: October 2021

Acetylcholine (ACh) decreases blood pressure by stimulating endothelium nitric oxide-dependent vasodilation in resistance arterioles. Normal plasma contains choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and its biosynthetic product ACh at appreciable concentrations to potentially act upon the endothelium to affect blood pressure. Recently we discovered a T-cell subset expressing ChAT (TChAT), whereby genetic ablation of ChAT in these cells produces hypertension, indicating that production of ACh by TChAT regulates blood pressure. Accordingly, we reasoned that increasing systemic ChAT concentrations might induce vasodilation and reduce blood pressure. To evaluate this possibility, recombinant ChAT was administered intraperitoneally to mice having angiotensin II-induced hypertension. This intervention significantly and dose-dependently decreased mean arterial pressure. ChAT-mediated attenuation of blood pressure was reversed by administration of the nitric oxide synthesis blocker l-nitro arginine methyl ester, indicating ChAT administration decreases blood pressure by stimulating nitic oxide dependent vasodilation, consistent with an effect of ACh on the endothelium. To prolong the half life of circulating ChAT, the molecule was modified by covalently attaching repeating units of polyethylene glycol (PEG), resulting in enzymatically active PEG-ChAT. Administration of PEG-ChAT to hypertensive mice decreased mean arterial pressure with a longer response duration when compared to ChAT. Together these findings suggest further studies are warranted on the role of ChAT in hypertension.
Primary high-grade serous ovarian cancer cells are sensitive to senescence induced by carboplatin and paclitaxel in vitro
Authors: Uruski Paweł , Sepetowska Agnieszka , Konieczna Corinna , Pakuła Martyna , Wyrwa Michał , Tussupkaliyev Akylbek , Tykarski Andrzej , Mikuła-Pietrasik Justyna , Książek Krzysztof
Published: October 2021

Background

Various types of normal and cancer cells undergo senescence in response to carboplatin and paclitaxel, which are considered the gold standard treatments in ovarian cancer management. Surprisingly, the effect of these drugs on ovarian cancer cell senescence remained unknown.

Methods

The experiments were conducted on primary high-grade serous ovarian cancer cells. Molecular markers of senescence were evaluated using cytochemistry and immunofluorescence. Cell cycle distribution was analyzed using flow cytometry. Expression of cyclins and signaling pathways was tested using western blot. Telomere length and telomerase activity were measured using qPCR, and the colocalization of telomeres with DNA damage foci using immuno-FISH. Oxidative stress-related parameters were quantified using appropriate fluorescence probes. Production of cancerogenic agents was analyzed using qPCR and ELISA.

Results

Carboplatin applied with paclitaxel induces senescence of ovarian cancer cells in vitro. This activity was reflected by permanent G2/M growth arrest, a high fraction of cells expressing senescence biomarkers (SA-β-Gal and γ-H2A.X), upregulated expression of p16, p21, and p53 cell cycle inhibitors, and decreased expression of cyclin B1. Neither telomere length nor telomerase activity changed in the senescent cells, and the majority of DNA damage was localized outside telomeres. Moreover, drug-treated cancer cells exhibited increased production of STAT3 protein, overproduced superoxide and peroxides, and increased mitochondrial mass. They were also characterized by upregulated ANG1, CCL11, IL-6, PDGF-D, TIMP-3, TSP-1, and TGF-β1 at the mRNA and/or protein level.

Conclusions

Our findings imply that conventional chemotherapy may elicit senescence in ovarian cancer cells, which may translate to the development of a cancer-promoting phenotype, despite the inability of these cells to divide.
Risk factors for mortality in patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy after cardiac surgery
Authors: Liu Chang , Zhang Hai-Tao , Yue Li-Jun , Li Ze-Shi , Pan Ke , Chen Zhong , Gu Su-Ping , Pan Tuo , Pan Jun , Wang Dong-Jin
Published: October 2021

Background

To investigate the risk factors for mortality in patients with acute kidney injury requiring continuous renal replacement therapy (AKI-CRRT) after cardiac surgery.

Methods

In this retrospective study, patients who underwent AKI-CRRT after cardiac surgery in our centre from January 2015 to January 2020 were included. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for in-hospital mortality.

Results

A total of 412 patients were included in our study. Of these, 174 died after AKI-CRRT, and the remaining 238 were included in the survival control group. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that EuroSCORE > 7 (odds ratio [OR], 3.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.92–7.24; p < 0.01), intraoperative bleeding > 1 L (OR, 2.14; 95% CI, 1.19–3.86; p = 0.01) and mechanical ventilation time > 70 h (OR, 5.03; 95% CI, 2.40–10.54; p < 0.01) were independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality in patients who had undergone AKI-CRRT. Our study also found that the use of furosemide after surgery was a protective factor for such patients (odds ratio, 0.48; 95% confidence interval, 0.25–0.92; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

In summary, the mortality of patients with AKI-CRRT after cardiac surgery remains high. The EuroSCORE, intraoperative bleeding and mechanical ventilation time were independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality. Continuous application of furosemide may be associated with a better outcome.
Hotspot mutation profiles of AKT1 in Asian women with breast and endometrial cancers
Authors: Shimoi Tatsunori , Hashimoto Jun , Sudo Kazuki , Shimomura Akihiko , Noguchi Emi , Shimizu Chikako , Yunokawa Mayu , Yonemori Kan , Yoshida Hiroshi , Yoshida Masayuki , Kato Tomoyasu , Kinoshita Takayuki , Fukuda Takahiro , Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Tamura Kenji
Published: October 2021

Background

The V-Akt murine thymoma viral oncogene (AKT) 1 (E17K) is a subfamily of serine/threonine protein kinases that affects the survival, proliferation, and invasion of cancer cells. The clinicopathological features and frequencies in Asian populations with AKT1 mutations in breast and endometrial cancers are unclear. Hence, we aimed to determine the frequencies and relationships between clinicopathological features and AKT1 mutations in Asian women with cancer.

Methods

We extracted DNA from 311 and 143 samples derived from patients with breast and endometrial cancers to detect the AKT1 point mutation (hotspot), E17K. We examined correlations between clinicopathological features and AKT1 mutation status.

Results

The frequency of AKT1 mutations in breast cancer was 7.4%, and they were found more frequently in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer subtypes, although this was not statistically significant (P = 0.08). The frequency of AKT1 mutations in endometrial cancer was 4.1%, and the mutations were histologically detected only in endometrioid types. However, AKT1 mutations did not correlate with relapse-free or overall survival of patients with breast or endometrial cancer.

Conclusions

AKT1 mutations are associated with HER2-negative subtype in breast cancer and in endometrial cancer with endometrioid histology. The frequencies of AKT1 mutations in breast and endometrial cancers were similar between Asian and other regional women. The frequency of mutations is too low in both tumor types to talk about predictive significance.
Health risk behaviours among adolescents in Argentina: trends between 2007, 2012 and 2018 national cross-sectional school surveys
Authors: Peltzer Karl , Pengpid Supa
Published: October 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to assess trends of various health risk behaviours among adolescents across three different surveys in Argentina.

Methods

Data from 115,697 adolescents (mean age:14.6 years, SD=1.2) that participated in three cross-sectional national school surveys in 2007, 2012 and 2018 were analysed. In all, 27 health risk behaviours were assessed through a self-administered questionnaire. Significance of a linear trend was tested by treating study year as categorical variable in logistic regression analyses, adjusted by age group and food insecurity for boys and girls separately

Results

Among both sexes, four health risk behaviours (current cigarette use, passive smoking, trouble from alcohol use, and physically attacked) significantly reduced from 2007 to 2018. Among boys five health risk behaviours (experience of hunger, parental tobacco use, current alcohol use, involvement in physical fighting, and multiple sexual partners), and among girls, inadequate physical activity significantly reduced over time. Among both sexes, the prevalence of four health risk behaviours (overweight/obesity, obesity, leisure-time sedentary behaviour and insufficient fruit intake) significantly increased among both sexes, and among girls ten health risk behaviours (not walking/biking to school, current other tobacco use, bullying victimisation, lifetime drunkenness, having no close friends, suicide plan, suicidal ideation, worry-induced sleep disturbance, loneliness, and ever sexual intercourse) significantly increased over time.

Conclusion

Nine health risk behaviours among boys and five health risk behaviours among girls decreased, and four health risk behaviours among boys and 14 health compromising behaviours among girls increased over a period of 11 years. School health programmes for adolescents should be strengthened in Argentina.
Impact of COVID-19 on life expectancy at birth in India: a decomposition analysis
Authors: Yadav Suryakant , Yadav Pawan Kumar , Yadav Neha
Published: October 2021

Background

Quantifying excess deaths and their impact on life expectancy at birth (e0) provide a more comprehensive understanding of the burden of coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) on mortality. The study aims to comprehend the repercussions of the burden of COVID-19 disease on the life expectancy at birth and inequality in age at death in India.

Methods

The mortality schedule of COVID-19 disease in the pandemic year 2020 was considered one of the causes of death in the category of other infectious diseases in addition to other 21 causes of death in the non-pandemic year 2019 in the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data. The measures e0 and Gini coefficient at age zero (G0) and then sex differences in e0 and G0 over time were analysed by assessing the age-specific contributions based on the application of decomposition analyses in the entire period of 2010–2020.

Results

The e0 for men and women decline from 69.5 and 72.0 years in 2019 to 67.5 and 69.8 years, respectively, in 2020. The e0 shows a drop of approximately 2.0 years in 2020 when compared to 2019. The sex differences in e0 and G0 are negatively skewed towards men. The trends in e0 and G0 value reveal that its value in 2020 is comparable to that in the early 2010s. The age group of 35–79 years showed a remarkable negative contribution to Δe0 and ΔG0. By causes of death, the COVID-19 disease has contributed − 1.5 and − 9.5%, respectively, whereas cardiovascular diseases contributed the largest value of was 44.6 and 45.9%, respectively, to sex differences in e0 and G0 in 2020. The outcomes reveal a significant impact of excess deaths caused by the COVID-19 disease on mortality patterns.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic has negative repercussions on e0 and G0 in the pandemic year 2020. It has severely affected the distribution of age at death in India, resulting in widening the sex differences in e0 and G0. The COVID-19 disease demonstrates its potential to cancel the gains of six to eight years in e0 and five years in G0 and has slowed the mortality transition in India.
Family-focused obesity prevention program implementation in urban versus rural communities: a case study
Authors: Flattum Colleen , Friend Sarah , Horning Melissa , Lindberg Rebecca , Beaudette Jennifer , Fulkerson Jayne A.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Despite public health efforts to reduce childhood obesity, there remains an unequal distribution of obesity among rural and urban children, with higher rates in rural areas. However, few studies have compared differences in program delivery. This paper aims to describe differences between an urban and rural program delivery of a family-focused, community-based intervention program to prevent and reduce obesity among children.

Methods

This paper uses a case study format to provide a descriptive analysis of similar obesity prevention programs, designed by the same research team, implemented in Minnesota in different settings (i.e., an urban and rural setting) with significant community engagement in the adaptation process. The rural NU-HOME program is compared to HOME-Plus, an urban family-based obesity prevention program for school-aged children.

Results

Community engagement in the adaptation process of an urban program to a rural program confirmed some anticipated program content and delivery similarities while identifying key differences that were necessary for adaptation related to engagement with the community, recruitment and data collection, and intervention delivery.

Discussion

When adapting research-tested programs from urban to rural areas, it is important to identify the modifiable behavioral, social, and environmental factors associated with obesity to ensure the content of effective childhood obesity prevention programs is relevant. Customizing a program to meet the needs of the community may increase reach, engagement, and sustainability. In addition, long-term dissemination of a tailored program may significantly reduce childhood obesity in rural communities and be implemented in other rural settings nationally.
Associations between depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, their comorbidity and health-related quality of life: a large-scale cross-sectional study
Authors: Liao Wei , Luo Zhicheng , Dong Xiaokang , Wu Xueyan , Mei Yongxia , Cui Ningning , Kang Ning , Lan Yali , Liu Xiaotian , Huo Wenqian , Wang Fang , Wang Chongjian
Published: October 2021

Background

There were few studies exploring the associations between depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in the general population, especially in resource limited area. The aims of this study were to assess the associations between depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, their comorbidity and HRQoL in rural area.

Methods

A total of 23,496 eligible participants from Henan rural cohort were included. The Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 (GAD-2) were employed to assess depressive and anxiety symptoms, respectively. HRQoL was measured via European Quality of Life Five Dimension Five Level Scale (EQ-5D-5L). Tobit regression and generalized linear model were utilized to explore the associations between depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, their comorbidity and HRQoL.

Results

A total of 1320 individuals were identified as depressive symptoms with a prevalence rate of 5.62%, while 1198 participants were classified as anxiety symptoms with a prevalence rate of 5.10%. After multiple adjustment, the regression coefficients (β) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of utility index for depressive and anxiety symptoms were − 0.166 (− 0.182, − 0.149) and − 0.132 (− 0.149, − 0.114), respectively. The β and 95% CI of VAS score for depressive and anxiety symptoms were − 7.65 (− 8.60, − 6.70) and − 5.79 (− 6.78, − 4.80), respectively. Additionally, the comorbidity was strongly associated with low utility index and VAS score. These findings were observed robustly in men and women.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms and their comorbidity were associated with low HRQoL in rural population, which needed further efforts on preventive and treatment interventions.

Clinical trial registration

The Henan Rural Cohort Study has been registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Register (Registration number: ChiCTR-OOC-15006699). Date of registration: 06 July, 2015.
Factors associated with unsafe sexual behavior among sexually active Chinese University students, Hebei Province, 2019
Authors: Ren Zhengjia , Zhou Yuchu , Liu Yanhong
Published: October 2021

Background

Healthy sexual behavior is critical for controlling the HIV/AIDS epidemic among university students, particularly in regions with increasing infection rates among university students in China.

Methods

This study investigated the prevalence of unhealthy sexual behavior in the past 6 months and the associated demographic and psychosocial factors among sexually active Chinese university students. Self-identified sexually active Chinese university students were recruited for the study.

Results

The study found that most students used condoms inconsistently during sexual intercourse (54.8%), and logistic regression showed that condomless sex was associated with being raised by a single parent (AOR = 1.934, 95% CI 1.234–3.031) or by grandparents or others (AOR = 1.583, 95% CI 1.003–2.50) and with sometimes using dating apps (AOR = 1.496, 95% CI 1.106–2.024). The independent protective factors for condomless sex were HIV knowledge scores between 15 and 18 compared to scores of 0 to 4 (AOR = 0.434, 95% CI 0.244–0.771). Among sexually active university students, 15.5% reported that they had multiple sexual partners; having multiple sexual partners was associated with sometimes (AOR = 2.543, 95% CI 1.553–4.167) or always (AOR =4.048, 95% CI 2.177–7.527) using dating apps. Being female (AOR = 0.402, 95% CI 0.231–0.699) and in a relationship (AOR = 0.236, 95% CI 0.154–0.363) were protective factors against having multiple sexual partners.

Conclusions

There is an urgent need to promote HIV prevention and to implement psychosocial interventions by providing comprehensive sex education and access to condoms and health care on campuses to decrease the potential factors related to unhealthy sexual behaviors among university students.
Association between diabetes mellitus and anemia among Korean adults according to sex: a cross-sectional analysis of data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010–2016)
Authors: Kim Mihye , Lee Sook-Hyun , Park Kyoung Sun , Kim Eun-Jung , Yeo Sujung , Ha In-Hyuk
Published: October 2021

Background

There are many conflicting opinions regarding the association between anemia and diabetes mellitus (DM), and the mechanism by which DM influences anemia remains uncertain. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between anemia and DM in Korean adults and to analyze the risk factors for anemia among these patients according to sex.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional survey was conducted using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey V, VI, and VII between January 2010 and December 2016. In total, 25,597 Korean adults aged ≥19 years (10,117 men, 15,480 women) were included. Patients with a fasting blood sugar level of ≥126 mg/dL or who have been diagnosed with DM were classified as the DM group. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin levels of < 13 g/dL in men and < 12 g/dL in women. Logistic regression analysis was used to adjust for demographic characteristics and lifestyle-, disease-, and health-related factors.

Results

Approximately 11.3% of patients had DM. The prevalence of anemia was significantly higher in the DM group than in the non-DM group. After adjusting for confounding factors, the odds of the prevalence of anemia in men were higher in the DM group than in the non-DM group (odds ratio [OR] 1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.42–2.50, p < 0.0001). When investigated according to the serum creatinine level, the association was significantly stronger among women (OR 42.63, 95% CI 17.25–105.36, p < 0.0001) than among men (OR 6.30, 95% CI 3.08–12.90, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

We found a strong association between DM and anemia that was more prominent among men than among women. We also determined that the serum creatinine level had a greater influence on DM and anemia in women than in men.
Biomechanical analysis of subcondylar fracture fixation using miniplates at different positions and of different lengths
Authors: Huang Chao-Min , Chan Man-Yee , Hsu Jui-Ting , Su Kuo-Chih
Published: October 2021

Background

Many types of titanium plates were used to treat subcondylar fracture clinically. However, the efficacy of fixation in different implant positions and lengths of the bone plate has not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was to use finite element analysis (FEA) to analyze the biomechanical effects of subcondylar fracture fixation with miniplates at different positions and lengths so that clinicians were able to find a better strategy of fixation to improve the efficacy and outcome of treatment.

Methods

The CAD software was used to combine the mandible, miniplate, and screw to create seven different FEA computer models. These models with subcondylar fracture were fixed with miniplates at different positions and of different lengths. The right unilateral molar clench occlusal mode was applied. The observational indicators were the reaction force at the temporomandibular joint, von Mises stress of the mandibular bone, miniplate and screw, and the sliding distance on the oblique surface of the fracture site at the mandibular condyle.

Results

The results showed the efficacy of fixation was better when two miniplates were used comparing to only one miniplates. Moreover, using longer miniplates for fixation had better results than the short one. Furthermore, fixing miniplates at the posterior portion of subcondylar region would have a better fixation efficacy and less sliding distance (5.46–5.76 μm) than fixing at the anterolateral surface of subcondylar region (6.10–7.00 μm).

Conclusion

Miniplate fixation, which was placed closer to the posterior margin, could effectively reduce the amount of sliding distance in the fracture site, thereby achieving greater stability. Furthermore, fixation efficiency was improved when an additional miniplate was placed at the anterior margin. Our study suggested that the placement of miniplates at the posterior surface and the additional plate could effectively improve stability.
Assessment of self-efficacy for caregiving in oncology: Italian validation of the caregiver inventory (CGI-I)
Authors: Serpentini S. , Guandalini B. , Tosin G. , Ronconi L. , Cristaldi G. , Amatulli R. , Deledda G. , Riccardi S. , Sommacal S. , Iannopollo L. , Calvo V. , Merluzzi T. V.
Published: October 2021

Background

The Caregiver Inventory (CGI), a measure of self-efficacy for caregiving that takes into account aspects of caregiving that are neglected by current measures of caregiving, was translated into Italian and validated.

Methods

Ninety-one caregivers from a variety of locations in Italy completed the CGI-Italian (CGI-I) as well as the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Family Strain Questionnaire - Short Form (FSQ-SF).

Results

A confirmatory factor analysis based on the original CGI factor structure resulted in an adequate fit of the CGI-I using standard fit indices. Thus, the original factor structure was validated in the CGI-I: Managing Medical Information (α = 0.87), Caring for Care Recipient (α = 0.68), Caring for Oneself (α = 0.78), and Managing Difficult Interactions/Emotions (α = 0.55). The CGI-I total score was inversely related to anxiety (HADS, r = − 0.35, p = <.05), and depression (HADS, r = − 0.45, p = <.05). In addition, the CGI-I was inversely related to caregiver stress (FSQ-SF, r = − 0.39, p = <.05). Care of Oneself and Managing Difficult Interactions/Emotions emerged as the strongest and most robust negative relationships with anxiety, depression, and caregiver stress, which replicated, with similar constructs, findings from the original CGI.

Conclusions

The results of this study established the CGI-I as a reliable and valid measure of self-efficacy for caregiving. This study also confirms the importance of self-care and managing difficult communication in the process of successfully navigating the demands of caregiving and in constructing interventions for caregivers who need support.
Telephone-delivered health behaviour change support for people with a mental health condition: the coaches’ perspective
Authors: Bradley Tegan , Hansen Vibeke , Wye Paula , Campbell Elizabeth , Bartlem Kate , Reid Kate , Bowman Jenny
Published: October 2021

Background

People with a mental health condition experience a greater prevalence of chronic disease and reduced life expectancy compared to the general population. Modifiable health risk behaviours, such as physical inactivity and poor nutrition are major contributing factors. Population-level health coaching delivering behavioural change support via telephone for healthy eating, physical activity, and weight management is an opportunity utilised by this group to support improvement in healthy lifestyle behaviours. Health coaches offer a valuable perspective into the provision of services to this high-risk group. This study aims to qualitatively explore coaches’ experiences in providing support to these participants, consider factors which may contribute to engagement and outcomes; and potentially inform future service improvement.

Method

A qualitative study design was employed involving semi-structured telephone interviews with six coaches employed in a telephone-based behaviour change support service in New South Wales, Australia, between April and July 2019. Interview data was analysed using an inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Coaches believed that the service was of benefit to people with a mental health condition, however making changes to health risk behaviours was potentially more difficult for this group of service users. Coaches indicated that in supporting this group there was a greater focus on building confidence and readiness to change. They noted that improvement in mental health as a result of physical health changes was an additional ‘measure of success’ of particular relevance. Coaches expressed a desire to receive more mental health training to better deliver coaching to participants with a mental health condition. Program variables such as limited call length were posed as possible barriers to care.

Conclusion

Further training and additional support for coaches, in additon to considering variations to aspects of service delivery may assist in improving engagement and outcomes for participants with mental health conditions. Examining mental health consumers’ experiences when engaging with telephone coaching services would be an important area to address in further research.
MIEF1/2 orchestrate mitochondrial dynamics through direct engagement with both the fission and fusion machineries
Authors: Yu Rong , Liu Tong , Jin Shao-Bo , Ankarcrona Maria , Lendahl Urban , Nistér Monica , Zhao Jian
Published: October 2021

Background

Mitochondrial dynamics is the result of a dynamic balance between fusion and fission events, which are driven via a set of mitochondria-shaping proteins. These proteins are generally considered to be binary components of either the fission or fusion machinery, but potential crosstalk between the fission and fusion machineries remains less explored. In the present work, we analyzed the roles of mitochondrial elongation factors 1 and 2 (MIEF1/2), core components of the fission machinery in mammals.

Results

We show that MIEFs (MIEF1/2), besides their action in the fission machinery, regulate mitochondrial fusion through direct interaction with the fusion proteins Mfn1 and Mfn2, suggesting that MIEFs participate in not only fission but also fusion. Elevated levels of MIEFs enhance mitochondrial fusion in an Mfn1/2- and OPA1-dependent but Drp1-independent manner. Moreover, mitochondrial localization and self-association of MIEFs are crucial for their fusion-promoting ability. In addition, we show that MIEF1/2 can competitively decrease the interaction of hFis1 with Mfn1 and Mfn2, alleviating hFis1-induced mitochondrial fragmentation and contributing to mitochondrial fusion.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that MIEFs serve as a central hub that interacts with and regulates both the fission and fusion machineries, which uncovers a novel mechanism for balancing these opposing forces of mitochondrial dynamics in mammals.
Huanglianjiedu Decoction as an effective treatment for oral squamous cell carcinoma based on network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Zhang Lejun , Ling Zhaoting , Hu Zhengqiang , Meng Guanmin , Zhu Xinqiang , Tang Huifang
Published: October 2021

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of malignant tumors in oral and maxillofacial region with high fatality. Huanglianjiedu Decoction (HLJDD) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicinal prescription, which consists ofCoptis chinensis Franch,Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi,Phellodendron amurense RuprandGardenia jasminoides J.Ellis. Some clinical studies showed HLJDD had good effectiveness on OSCC, but the mechanism is unclear.

Methods

In this study, potential components of HLJDD and putative targets were screened by Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). Combining with potential targets of OSCC searched from Therapeutic Target Database (TTD) and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), we drew protein–protein interaction (PPI) network by Cytoscape v3.2.0 software. After topological analysis we got core targets and further did Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. Then we did the in vitro experiments to verify the major biological processes (cell cycle, apoptosis and proliferation) and signaling pathways (mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), protein kinase B (AKT)) on OSCC cell lines, SCC-25 and CAL-27.

Results

The potential component targets number ofCoptis chinensis Franch,Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi,Phellodendron amurense RuprandGardenia jasminoides J.Elliswere 39, 93, 81and 88, respectively. Then we got 52 core targets which enriched in cell cycle, apoptosis, proliferation, MAPK activation etc. and obtained TOP30 pathways. On SCC-25 and CAL-27, HLJDD suppressed cell proliferation, induced late apoptosis and inhibited cell invasion and migration which were consistent with the results from network pharmacology analysis. Additionally, in cell cycle, we confirmed HLJDD inhibited G1 phase and arrested in S phase to reduce cell proliferation on SCC-25. In signaling pathways, HLJDD inhibited the phosphorylation of extracellular regulatory protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and NF-κB p65 (S468) on SCC-25 and CAL-27.

Conclusions

HLJDD played a potential therapeutic role on OSCC via inhibiting p-ERK1/2 and p-NF-κB p65 (S468).

Graphical abstract
The recruitment mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets of podocytes from parietal epithelial cells
Authors: Ni Lihua , Yuan Cheng , Wu Xiaoyan
Published: October 2021

Podocytes are differentiated postmitotic cells which cannot be replaced after podocyte injury. The mechanism of podocyte repopulation after injury has aroused wide concern. Parietal epithelial cells (PECs) are heterogeneous and only a specific subpopulation of PECs has the capacity to replace podocytes. Major progress has been achieved in recent years regarding the role and function of a subset of PECs which could transdifferentiate toward podocytes. Additionally, several factors, such as Notch, Wnt/ß-catenin, Wilms’ tumor-1, miR-193a and growth arrest-specific protein 1, have been shown to be involved in these processes. Finally, PECs serve as a potential therapeutic target in the conditions of podocyte loss. In this review, we discuss the latest observations and concepts about the recruitment of podocytes from PECs in glomerular diseases as well as newly identified mechanisms and the most recent treatments for this process.