bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
G-bic: generating synthetic benchmarks for biclustering
Authors: Castanho Eduardo N. , Lobo João P. , Henriques Rui , Madeira Sara C.
Published: December 2023

Background

Biclustering is increasingly used in biomedical data analysis, recommendation tasks, and text mining domains, with hundreds of biclustering algorithms proposed. When assessing the performance of these algorithms, more than real datasets are required as they do not offer a solid ground truth. Synthetic data surpass this limitation by producing reference solutions to be compared with the found patterns. However, generating synthetic datasets is challenging since the generated data must ensure reproducibility, pattern representativity, and real data resemblance.

Results

We propose G-Bic, a dataset generator conceived to produce synthetic benchmarks for the normative assessment of biclustering algorithms. Beyond expanding on aspects of pattern coherence, data quality, and positioning properties, it further handles specificities related to mixed-type datasets and time-series data.G-Bic has the flexibility to replicate real data regularities from diverse domains. We provide the default configurations to generate reproducible benchmarks to evaluate and compare diverse aspects of biclustering algorithms. Additionally, we discuss empirical strategies to simulate the properties of real data.

Conclusion

G-Bic is a parametrizable generator for biclustering analysis, offering a solid means to assess biclustering solutions according to internal and external metrics robustly.
Modelling the current and future distribution potential areas of Peperomia abyssinica Miq., and Helichrysum citrispinum Steud. ex A. Rich. in Ethiopia
Authors: Daba Debela , Kagnew Birhanu , Tefera Belay , Nemomissa Sileshi
Published: December 2023

Background

The aim of this study is to investigate how climate change influences the distribution of economically and environmentally important species of P. abyssinica and H. citrispinum in Ethiopia. The species distribution modeling intends to forecast species' ecological niche ranges and habitat suitability by employing a variety of environmental parameters as predictors, which is vital for conservation planning and restoration success. Six representative concentration pathways (RCP 2.6, 4.5, and 8.5 for the years 2050 and 2070) with the same resolution of 2.5 min that shows the emission scenarios were used for the prediction. To predict the current and future distributions of H. citrispinum and P. abyssinica 56 and 45 occurrence records from National Herbarium, Addis Ababa University, GBIF, and available literatures were used respectively.

Results

The MaxEnt model predicted habitat suitability for H. citrispinum species with an Area Under Curve (AUC) value of 0.961 ± 0.027, and 0.809 ± 0.045 for P. abyssinica, indicating excellent discriminatory ability or accuracy under the current climate scenario. The Future distribution of suitable habitat for both H. citrispinum and P. abyssinica plant species was accurately predicted with AUC values of 0.960 ± 0.017 and 0.780 ± 0.35, respectively under future climatic scenarios. The jackknife test result indicates that environmental variables such as topographic position index (92.5%), precipitation of the driest quarter (3%) and precipitation in the coldest quarter (1.8%) are associated with the distributions of H. citrispinum, while topographic position index (36.6%), precipitation of driest quarter (21.4%), precipitation of warmest quarter (16.2%) and precipitation seasonality (13.9%) were found to be limiting environmental variables for P. abyssinica under current and future climatic conditions in Ethiopia. The prediction map and interception calculation for both present and projected (in the 2050s and again in the 2070s) climate change scenarios indicate significant habitat loss, decreased, and fragmentation under all RCPs (2.6, 4.5, and 8.5) scenarios for P. abyssinica while habitat gain, and increasing for H. citrispinum in Ethiopia.

Conclusions

Topographic position index (TPI) is the most impactful predictor variable on the distribution of the two species. Consequently, potentially habitable areas (with diverse aspects and slopes) are increasing for H. citrispinum while decreasing for P. abyssinica.
Uncovering the transcriptional responses of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) roots to Ralstonia solanacearum infection: a comparative study of resistant and susceptible cultivars
Authors: Zhang Hailing , Ikram Muhammad , Li Ronghua , Xia Yanshi , Zhao Weicai , Yuan Qinghua , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Guo Peiguo
Published: December 2023

Background

Tobacco bacterial wilt (TBW) caused by Ralstonia solanacearum is the most serious soil-borne disease of tobacco that significantly reduces crop yield. However, the limited availability of resistance in tobacco hinders breeding efforts for this disease.

Results

In this study, we conducted hydroponic experiments for the root expression profiles of D101 (resistant) and Honghuadajinyuan (susceptible) cultivars in response to BW infection at 0 h, 6 h, 1 d, 3 d, and 7d to explore the defense mechanisms of BW resistance in tobacco. As a result, 20,711 and 16,663 (total: 23,568) differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the resistant and susceptible cultivars, respectively. In brief, at 6 h, 1 d, 3 d, and 7 d, the resistant cultivar showed upregulation of 1553, 1124, 2583, and 7512 genes, while the susceptible cultivar showed downregulation of 1213, 1295, 813, and 7735 genes. Similarly, across these time points, the resistant cultivar had downregulation of 1034, 749, 1686, and 11,086 genes, whereas the susceptible cultivar had upregulation of 1953, 1790, 2334, and 6380 genes. The resistant cultivar had more up-regulated genes at 3 d and 7 d than the susceptible cultivar, indicating that the resistant cultivar has a more robust defense response against the pathogen. The GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that these genes are involved in responses to oxidative stress, plant–pathogen interactions, cell walls, glutathione and phenylalanine metabolism, and plant hormone signal transduction. Among the DEGs, 239 potential candidate genes were detected, including 49 phenylpropane/flavonoids pathway-associated, 45 glutathione metabolic pathway-associated, 47 WRKY, 48 ERFs, eight ARFs, 26 pathogenesis-related genes (PRs), and 14 short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase genes. In addition, two highly expressed novel genes (MSTRG.61386-R1B-17 and MSTRG.61568) encoding nucleotide-binding site leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR) proteins were identified in both cultivars at 7 d.

Conclusions

This study revealed significant enrichment of DEGs in GO and KEGG terms linked to glutathione, flavonoids, and phenylpropane pathways, indicating the potential role of glutathione and flavonoids in early BW resistance in tobacco roots. These findings offer fundamental insight for further exploration of the genetic architecture and molecular mechanisms of BW resistance in tobacco and solanaceous plants at the molecular level.
Ultrasound-guided dexmedetomidine combination with modified high fascia iliaca compartment block for arthroscopic knee surgery: what is the optimal dose of dexmedetomidine?
Authors: Chen An , Duan Wanqing , Hao Ruijinlin , Wang Chen , Xu Xingguo
Published: December 2023

Background

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common orthopedic procedure for end-stage knee osteoarthritis. Although effective in relieving pain and improving function, postoperative pain is still a common and distressing problem for many patients. This study aims to investigate efficacy of combined administration of dexmedetomidine and modified high fascia iliaca compartment block (H-FICB) in managing acute and chronic pain after TKA, as well as to identify the optimal dosage of dexmedetomidine.

Methods

A double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of dexmedetomidine in patients undergoing TKA. A total of 96 patients undergoing TKA were randomly assigned to one of three groups, were treated with different doses of dexmedetomidine All groups received H-FIB. Pain scores, opioid consumption, side effects, and quality of life were recorded 48 h postoperatively.

Results

The intraoperative consumption of remifentanil and propofol in Group Db was significantly reduced compared with that in Group D0 and Da (P < 0.05). Compared with D0 and Da group, Db group had the lowest number of rescue analgesia, analgesia time and morphine accumulative dosage 48 h after operation (P < 0.05). The Db group had the lowest scores on the numerical rating scale at rest (P < 0.05) and during movement (P < 0.01), followed by the Da group and then the D0 group. Additionally, the incidence of nausea and vomiting was significantly reduced in the Db group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the Db group had the lowest incidence of chronic pain (P < 0.05).

Discussion

In comparison to the other two groups, the administration of combined dexmedetomidine and H-FIB resulted in a significant reduction in pain scores, opioid consumption, and side effects. The optimal dosage of dexmedetomidine was determined to be 1 μg/kg, which provided the most favorable pain relief with minimal adverse effects.
Self-harming behaviors and forensic system-related factors: an analysis of the Ontario review board database
Authors: Kaggwa Mark Mohan , Chaimowitz Gary Andrew , Erb Bailea , Prat Sébastien , Davids Arianna , Moulden Heather , Robbins Amara , Bradford John , Mamak Mini , Olagunju Andrew Toyin
Published: December 2023

Background

In Canada, ensuring public safety, and the safety and well-being of accused individuals under the jurisdiction of the provincial review board are very important. While previous studies have reported a significant risk of self-harming behaviors (non-suicidal self-injury and suicide attempt) in forensic psychiatric settings, no large population study has assessed any relationship between forensic system-related factors and self-harming behaviors. A better understanding of these factors can help clinicians implement protective measures to mitigate self-harming behaviors or actions.

Methods

Using the Ontario Review Board (ORB) database covering 2014–2015 period (n = 1211, mean age = 42.5 ± 13.37 years, males = 86.1%), we analyzed the prevalence and factors associated with self-harming behaviors, emphasizing the characterization of the forensic system-related factors (ORB status, legal status, type of offense, previous criminal history, and victim relationship). The relationships between the forensic system-related factors and self-harming behaviors were explored using five separate logistic regression models, controlling for clinical and sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

Approximately 4% of the individuals in the forensic system over the study period engaged in self-harming behaviors Among the studied patients, individuals determined to be unfit to stand trial and inpatients were significantly more likely to have self-harming behaviors. There was no significant relationship between the type of offence, victim relationship, and previous criminal history with self-harming behavior.

Conclusion

Forensic psychiatry inpatients should have close observation, screening, monitoring, and individual tailored management strategies for self-harming behaviors. The findings of this study indicate that forensic system-related factors, especially those that pertain to the status of individuals in the forensic system (i.e., unfit to stand trial and being an inpatient) are more responsible for self-harming behaviors among forensic patients in Ontario.
Illustration of association between change in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) values and time to tumor status after treatment for prostate cancer patients: a joint modelling approach
Authors: Liaqat Madiha , Kamal Shahid , Fischer Florian
Published: December 2023

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most prevalent tumor in men, and Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) serves as the primary marker for diagnosis, recurrence, and disease-free status. PSA levels post-treatment guide physicians in gauging disease progression and tumor status (low or high). Clinical follow-up relies on monitoring PSA over time, forming the basis for dynamic prediction. Our study proposes a joint model of longitudinal PSA and time to tumor shrinkage, incorporating baseline variables. The research aims to assess tumor status post-treatment for dynamic prediction, utilizing joint assessment of PSA measurements and time to tumor status.

Methods

We propose a joint model for longitudinal PSA and time to tumor shrinkage, taking into account baseline BMI and post-treatment factors, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), prostatectomy, and various combinations of these interventions. The model employs a mixed-effect sub-model for longitudinal PSA and an event time sub-model for tumor shrinkage.

Results

Results emphasize the significance of baseline factors in understanding the relationship between PSA trajectories and tumor status. Patients with low tumor status consistently exhibit low PSA values, decreasing exponentially within one month post-treatment. The correlation between PSA levels and tumor shrinkage is evident, with the considered factors proving to be significant in both sub-models.

Conclusions

Compared to other treatment options, ADT is the most effective in achieving a low tumor status, as evidenced by a decrease in PSA levels after months of treatment. Patients with an increased BMI were more likely to attain a low tumor status. The research enhances dynamic prediction for PCa patients, utilizing joint analysis of PSA and time to tumor shrinkage post-treatment. The developed model facilitates more effective and personalized decision-making in PCa care.
Cancer patients’ behaviors and attitudes toward natural health products
Authors: Schils Audrey , Lechon Anne-Sophie , Rondeaux Sarah , Souard Florence , Van Laethem Jean-Luc , Pochet Stephanie , Mathieu Veronique , De Vriese Carine
Published: December 2023

Background

Natural health products (NHPs), including vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements, are the most common complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among cancer patients. Our survey determined the attitudes and behaviors of cancer patients toward natural complementary therapies that should be considered to implement an integrative approach in the future.

Methods

Our survey was conducted in four hospitals in Belgium. Questionnaires were posted online from October 2020 to October 2021 for cancer patients. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. A $$\chi ^{2}$$

χ
2

test was applied to study the type of NHP consumed according to diagnosis time. Fischer’s exact test compared patients who had changed their consumption since diagnosis and those who had not.

Results

Out of 349 questionnaires collected, only 59 met all inclusion criteria. 83.1 % of the patients agreed that conventional medicine (CM) could benefit from complementary therapies, but they did not estimate (72.3 % of the patients) that those latter are more effective than conventional medicine. More than half of the patients used five or more NHPs. The most frequent NHPs consumed daily were vitamins (64.4 %), followed by other products (i.e., probiotics, gemmotherapy, birch sap and omega 3/6) (42.4 %) and herbs (40.7 %). Almost all patients started taking NHPs before their cancer diagnosis, but 72.7 % have changed their consumption significantly (p = 0.009) since their diagnosis. Boosting the immune system (79.7 %) and limiting conventional treatment side effects (76.9 %) were the most common reasons for NHPs’ use. 74.4 % of the patients did not take complementary therapies to delay or avoid conventional treatment.

Conclusions

The combination and high diversity of NHPs consumption highlight the importance of educating patients and healthcare providers (HCPs) about the risk of drug interactions associated with these natural products. Most cancer patients are more interested in using this non-mainstream medicine to complement their conventional treatment than as an alternative. Knowing the patients' reasons and understanding patients’ attitudes toward NHPs will be essential for HCPs to address NHPs’ use.
Educational efficacy of medical humanities in empathy of medical students and healthcare professionals: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xin , Pang Hui-fang , Duan Zhiguang
Published: December 2023

Background

Medical humanities education is an important part of medical education. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of medical humanities in improving empathy among medical students and healthcare professionals.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, EBSCO-ERIC, Web of Science were searched systematically for studies in the English language. The last retrieval date is May 1, 2023. Best Evidence Medical Education (BEME) Global Rating Scale and Kirkpatrick-based results were used to evaluate the quality of literature. In this study, a meta-analysis of continuous data was conducted.

Results

The pooled results by single-arm test meta-analysis showed a benefit with medical humanities programs in empathy (SMD 1.33; 95% CI 0.69–1.96). For single-arm trials of medical humanities program interventions of less than 4 months, 4 months to 12 months, and more than one year, the standardized mean differences(SMD) between post-test and pre-test were 1.74 (P < 0.05), 1.26 (P < 0.05), and 0.13 (P = 0.46), respectively. The results showed a significant difference in the effect of medical humanities programs on male and female empathy (SMD − 1.10; 95% CI -2.08 – -0.13). The SMDs for the study of course, the course combined reflective writing, and the course combined reflective writing and practice as intervention modalities for medical humanities programs were 1.15 (P < 0.05), 1.64 (P < 0.05), and 1.50 (P < 0.05), respectively.

Conclusion

Medical humanities programs as a whole can improve the empathy of medical students and health professionals. However, different intervention durations and different intervention methods produce different intervention effects.
Dietary supplementation with Acremonium terricola culture alters the gut microbial structure and improves the growth performance, antioxidant status, and immune function of weaning piglets
Authors: Wang Wei , Peng Yizhu , Nie Yong , Wang Yulong , Wang Chuang , Huang Bo
Published: December 2023

Background

Acremonium terricola is used in the feed of dairy animals to promote growth and control diseases. However, the effects of dietary supplementation with A. terricola on the gut microbial structure of weaning piglets remain poorly understood. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with A. terricola culture (ATC) on the growth performance, antioxidant status, immunity, and gut environment of weaning piglets. Sixty piglets were fed a basal diet supplemented with 1 g ATC/kg of basal diet (experimental group). Another 60 piglets did not receive ATC (control group). The intervention lasted for 20 days.

Results

The experimental group had higher daily weight gain and feed efficiency than did the control group. Significant increases were noted in the levels of serum insulin (P = 0.0018), insulin-like growth factor (P = 0.0018), triiodothyronine (P = 0.0031), immunoglobulin A (P < 0.0001), immunoglobulin M (P = 0.001), immunoglobulin G (P = 0.0001), and interferon γ (P < 0.0001) in the experimental group compared with the levels in the control group. Furthermore, ATC supplementation significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the relative abundance of Shuttleworthia, Succinivibrio, Roseburia, Ruminococcus, and Paludibacter but increased that of Phascolarctobacterium, Megasphaera, Faecalibacterium, and Prevotella in the experimental group compared with that in the control group. Notably, ATC supplementation significantly increased the relative abundance of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (P < 0.05), which is involved in anti-inflammatory activities, gut barrier enhancement, and butyrate production.

Conclusions

Dietary supplementation with ATC may improve the growth performance, antioxidant status, immunity, and fecal microflora of weaning pigs.
An elevated triglyceride-glucose index predicts adverse outcomes and interacts with the treatment strategy in patients with three-vessel disease
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhang Ce , Jiang Lin , Xu Lianjun , Tian Jian , Zhao Xueyan , Wang Dong , Zhang Yin , Sun Kai , Zhang Channa , Xu Bo , Zhao Wei , Hui Rutai , Gao Runlin , Wang Jizheng , Feng Xinxing , Yuan Jinqing , Song Lei
Published: December 2023

Background

Insulin resistance is a pivotal risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a well-established surrogate of insulin resistance. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of the TyG index and its ability in therapy guidance in patients with three-vessel disease (TVD).

Methods

A total of 8862 patients with TVD with available baseline TyG index data were included in the study. The endpoint was major adverse cardiac events (MACE). All patients received coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), or medical therapy (MT) alone reasonably.

Results

An elevated TyG index was defined as the TyG index greater than 9.51. During a median follow-up of 7.5 years, an elevated TyG index was significantly associated with an increased risk of MACE (adjusted hazard ratio 1.161, 95% confidence interval 1.026–1.314, p = 0.018). The elevated TyG index was shown to have a more pronounced predictive value for MACE in patients with diabetes, but failed to predict MACE among those without diabetes, whether they presented with stable angina pectoris (SAP) or acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Meanwhile, the association between an elevated TyG index and MACE was also found in patients with left main involvement. Notably, CABG conferred a significant survival advantage over PCI in patients with a normal TyG index, but was not observed to be superior to PCI in patients with an elevated TyG index unless the patients had both ACS and diabetes. In addition, the benefit was shown to be similar between MT and revascularisation among patients with SAP and an elevated TyG index.

Conclusions

The TyG index is a potential indicator for risk stratification and therapeutic decision-making in patients with TVD.

Graphical Abstract
The nexus of natural killer cells and melanoma tumor microenvironment: crosstalk, chemotherapeutic potential, and innovative NK cell-based therapeutic strategies
Authors: Rahimi Azadeh , Malakoutikhah Zahra , Rahimmanesh Ilnaz , Ferns Gordon A. , Nedaeinia Reza , Ishaghi Sayed Mohammad Matin , Dana Nasim , Haghjooy Javanmard Shaghayegh
Published: December 2023

The metastasis of melanoma cells to regional lymph nodes and distant sites is an important contributor to cancer-related morbidity and mortality among patients with melanoma. This intricate process entails dynamic interactions involving tumor cells, cellular constituents, and non-cellular elements within the microenvironment. Moreover, both microenvironmental and systemic factors regulate the metastatic progression. Central to immunosurveillance for tumor cells are natural killer (NK) cells, prominent effectors of the innate immune system with potent antitumor and antimetastatic capabilities. Recognizing their pivotal role, contemporary immunotherapeutic strategies are actively integrating NK cells to combat metastatic tumors. Thus, a meticulous exploration of the interplay between metastatic melanoma and NK cells along the metastatic cascade is important. Given the critical involvement of NK cells within the melanoma tumor microenvironment, this comprehensive review illuminates the intricate relationship between components of the melanoma tumor microenvironment and NK cells, delineating their multifaceted roles. By shedding light on these critical aspects, this review advocates for a deeper understanding of NK cell dynamics within the melanoma context, driving forward transformative strategies to combat this cancer.
Applications of lung cancer organoids in precision medicine: from bench to bedside
Authors: Li Huihui , Chen Zexin , Chen Ning , Fan Yun , Xu Yaping , Xu Xiaoling
Published: December 2023

As the leading cause of cancer-related mortality, lung cancer continues to pose a menacing threat to human health worldwide. Lung cancer treatment options primarily rely on chemoradiotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Despite significant progress in research and treatment, the 5-year survival rate for lung cancer patients is only 10–20%. There is an urgent need to develop more reliable preclinical models and valid therapeutic approaches. Patient-derived organoids with highly reduced tumour heterogeneity have emerged as a promising model for high-throughput drug screening to guide treatment of lung cancer patients. Organoid technology offers a novel platform for disease modelling, biobanking and drug development. The expected benefit of organoids is for cancer patients as the subsequent precision medicine technology. Over the past few years, numerous basic and clinical studies have been conducted on lung cancer organoids, highlighting the significant contributions of this technique. This review comprehensively examines the current state-of-the-art technologies and applications relevant to the formation of lung cancer organoids, as well as the potential of organoids in precision medicine and drug testing.
Tri©DB: an integrated platform of knowledgebase and reporting system for cancer precision medicine
Authors: Jiang Wei , Wang Peng-Ying , Zhou Qi , Lin Qiu-Tong , Yao Yao , Huang Xun , Tan Xiaoming , Yang Shihui , Ye Weicai , Yang Yuedong , Bao Yun-Juan
Published: December 2023

Background

With the development of cancer precision medicine, a huge amount of high-dimensional cancer information has rapidly accumulated regarding gene alterations, diseases, therapeutic interventions and various annotations. The information is highly fragmented across multiple different sources, making it highly challenging to effectively utilize and exchange the information. Therefore, it is essential to create a resource platform containing well-aggregated, carefully mined, and easily accessible data for effective knowledge sharing.

Methods

In this study, we have developed “Consensus Cancer Core” (Tri©DB), a new integrative cancer precision medicine knowledgebase and reporting system by mining and harmonizing multifaceted cancer data sources, and presenting them in a centralized platform with enhanced functionalities for accessibility, annotation and analysis.

Results

The knowledgebase provides the currently most comprehensive information on cancer precision medicine covering more than 40 annotation entities, many of which are novel and have never been explored previously. Tri©DB offers several unique features: (i) harmonizing the cancer-related information from more than 30 data sources into one integrative platform for easy access; (ii) utilizing a variety of data analysis and graphical tools for enhanced user interaction with the high-dimensional data; (iii) containing a newly developed reporting system for automated annotation and therapy matching for external patient genomic data. Benchmark test indicated that Tri©DB is able to annotate 46% more treatments than two officially recognized resources, oncoKB and MCG. Tri©DB was further shown to have achieved 94.9% concordance with administered treatments in a real clinical trial.

Conclusions

The novel features and rich functionalities of the new platform will facilitate full access to cancer precision medicine data in one single platform and accommodate the needs of a broad range of researchers not only in translational medicine, but also in basic biomedical research. We believe that it will help to promote knowledge sharing in cancer precision medicine. Tri©DB is freely available at www.biomeddb.org, and is hosted on a cutting-edge technology architecture supporting all major browsers and mobile handsets.
Design, synthesis, and characterization of novel system xC− transport inhibitors: inhibition of microglial glutamate release and neurotoxicity
Authors: Gajewski Mariusz P. , Barger Steven W.
Published: December 2023

Neuroinflammation appears to involve some degree of excitotoxicity promulgated by microglia, which release glutamate via the system xC− (SxC−) cystine-glutamate antiporter. With the aim of mitigating this source of neuronal stress and toxicity, we have developed a panel of inhibitors of the SxC− antiporter. The compounds were based on l-tyrosine, as elements of its structure align with those of glutamate, a primary physiological substrate of the SxC− antiporter. In addition to 3,5-dibromotyrosine, ten compounds were synthesized via amidation of that parent molecule with a selection of acyl halides. These agents were tested for the ability to inhibit release of glutamate from microglia activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an activity exhibited by eight of the compounds. To confirm that the compounds were inhibitors of SxC−, two of them were further tested for the ability to inhibit cystine uptake. Finally, these agents were shown to protect primary cortical neurons from the toxicity exhibited by activated microglia. These agents may hold promise in reducing the neurodegenerative effects of neuroinflammation in conditions, such as encephalitis, traumatic brain injury, stroke, or neurodegenerative diseases.
Epigallocatechin gallate prevents cardiomyocytes from pyroptosis through lncRNA MEG3/TAF15/AIM2 axis in myocardial infarction
Authors: Qin Chaoshi , Wang Tingting , Qian Ni , Liu Jing , Xi Rong , Zou Qing , Liu Hui , Niu Xiaolin
Published: December 2023

Background

( −)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a bioactive polyphenol isolated from green tea, has recently garnered attention for its potential protective role against acute myocardial infarction (MI) via inhibiting inflammation. Herein, we tested whether EGCG participates in modulating cardiac ischemia reperfusion-induced injury and elucidate its potential mechanisms.

Methods

To induce MI in mice, we employed coronary artery ligation, while cell models utilized oxygen glucose deprivation/re-oxygenation (OGD/R)-treated HL-1 cells. TTC, HE and Massion staining evaluated the pathological changes of heart tissues. Besides, RNA-pull down and RIP assays analyzed the interactions of MEG3/TAF15 and AIM2 mRNA/TAF15. FISH associated with immunofiuorescence (IF) double staining was conducted to measure the co-localization of MEG3 and TAF15.

Results

In vitro and in vivo evidence supported that EGCG treatment improved cardiomyocytes viability while inhibiting the expressions of AIM2, C-caspase-1, ASC, GSDMD-N, IL-18 and IL-1β. Knockdown of MEG3 intensified EGCG's therapeutic effects both in vitro and in vivo. LncRNA MEG3 and AIM2 mRNA interacted with TAF15, and MEG3, in turn, promoted the stability of AIM2 mRNA through regulating TAF15. Overexpression of TAF15 reversed the promoting effect of EGCG and MEG3 knockdown on cell viability, and the inhibiting effect on cell pyroptosis.

Conclusion

EGCG protected cardiomyocytes from pyroptosis by the MEG3/TAF15/AIM2 axis, indicating EGCG as a potential novel therapeutic strategy for managing MI.
Twice or thrice weekly levothyroxine provides similar rates of adherence and post-Ramadan euthyroidism compared to daily levothyroxine during Ramadan fasting
Authors: Elsherbiny Tamer Mohamed
Published: December 2023

Background

Having to take levothyroxine (L-T4) on a daily basis, on an empty stomach is burdensome and may impair adherence, especially during Ramadan fasting. A long half-life and autoregulation of thyroid hormone levels allows for twice or thrice weekly administration of L-T4. This study aims to establish twice or thrice weekly L-T4 dosing as a convenient and effective practice during Ramadan fasting.

Methods

The study included 2 groups; twice or thrice weekly (TTW) group included patients assigned to take L-T4 twice or thrice a week, and standard daily dosing (SDT) group included patients assigned to take L-T4 daily. Patients freely chose between three L-T4 regimens: before Iftar, before Suhor, or before the next fast. Thyroid status was assessed before and within 6 weeks after Ramadan. Only euthyroid patients were included.

Results

TTW group included 57 patients, while SDT group included 91 patients. Pre-Ramadan TSH in TTW group (1.80 ± 0.88 µIU/L) was higher compared to SDT group (1.39 ± 0.72 µIU/L) [P = 0.003]. Similar adherence rates were observed in both groups, 96.5% in TTW group versus 89% in SDT group, [P = 0.13]. similar rates of post-Ramadan euthyroidism were also found in both groups, 91.2% in TTW group versus 94.5% in SDT group, [P = 0.509]. TTW group preferred regimen 1 (64.9%) significantly more than SDT group (35.2%) [P = 0.001].

Conclusion

Twice or thrice weekly levothyroxine results in similarly high rates of adherence (96.5%) and post-Ramadan euthyroidism (91.2%) compared to daily levothyroxine during Ramadan fasting.
Comparing outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients with initial shockable rhythm in Singapore and Osaka using population-based databases
Authors: Okada Yohei , Shahidah Nur , Ng Yih Yng , Chia Michael Y. C. , Gan Han Nee , Leong Benjamin S. H. , Mao Desmond R. , Ng Wei Ming , Edwin Nausheen , Kiguchi Takeyuki , Nishioka Norihiro , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Iwami Taku , Ong Marcus Eng Hock
Published: December 2023

Background

Previous research indicated outcomes among refractory out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients with initial shockable rhythm were different in Singapore and Osaka, Japan, possibly due to the differences in access to extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. However, this previous study had a risk of selection bias. To address this concern, this study aimed to evaluate the outcomes between Singapore and Osaka for OHCA patients with initial shockable rhythm using only population-based databases.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of two OHCA population-based databases in Osaka and Singapore, including adult OHCA patients with initial shockable rhythm. A machine-learning-based prediction model was derived from the Osaka data (n = 3088) and applied to the PAROS-SG data (n = 2905). We calculated the observed-expected ratio (OE ratio) for good neurological outcomes observed in Singapore and the expected derived from the data in Osaka by dividing subgroups with or without prehospital ROSC.

Results

The one-month good neurological outcomes in Osaka and Singapore among patients with prehospital ROSC were 70% (791/1,125) and 57% (440/773), and among patients without prehospital ROSC were 10% (196/1963) and 2.8% (60/2,132). After adjusting patient characteristics, the outcome in Singapore was slightly better than expected from Osaka in patients with ROSC (OE ratio, 1.067 [95%CI 1.012 to 1.125]), conversely, it was worse than expected in patients without prehospital ROSC (OE ratio, 0.238 [95%CI 0.173 to 0.294]).

Conclusion

This study showed the outcomes of OHCA patients without prehospital ROSC in Singapore were worse than expected derived from Osaka data even using population-based databases.

(249/250 words).
The ginsenoside Rg2 downregulates MMP-1 expression in keratinocyte (HaCaT)-conditioned medium-treated human fibroblasts (Hs68)
Authors: Oh Sol-ra , Park Se-keun , Lee Pyeongjae , Kim Yong-Min
Published: December 2023

Keratinocytes exposed to UVB induce the production of cytokines, which activate fibroblasts and increase the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The increased expression of MMPs leads to connective tissue damage and wrinkle formation, resulting in skin aging. In this study, we used human dermal fibroblasts cultured in UVB-irradiated keratinocyte-conditioned medium (UV CM) to investigate the potential anti-aging effects of the ginsenoside Rg2 on skin. The inhibitory effect of Rg2 on the MMP-1 gene and protein was determined by real-time PCR and ELISA. We also examined the expression levels of proteins in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway using western blotting, to elucidate the underlying mechanism of the inhibitory effect of Rg2. Rg2 inhibited MMP-1 mRNA and protein expression in a concentration-dependent manner. We found that Rg2 inhibited the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) but not that of p38. Therefore, our results suggest that Rg2 is a potential material for the prevention and treatment of photoaging.
Accuracy of digital implant impressions obtained using intraoral scanners: a systematic review and meta-analysis of in vivo studies
Authors: Ma Jie , Zhang Binghua , Song Hao , Wu Dongle , Song Tao
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This systematic review aimed to investigate the accuracy of intraoral scan (IOS) impressions of implant-supported restorations in in vivo studies.

Methods

A systematic electronic search and review of studies on the accuracy of IOS implant impressions were conducted to analyze the peer-reviewed literature published between 1989 and August 2023. The bias analysis was performed by two reviewers. Data on the study characteristics, accuracy outcomes, and related variables were extracted. A meta-analysis of randomized control trials was performed to investigate the impact of IOS on peri-implant crestal bone loss and the time involved in the impression procedure.

Results

Ten in vivo studies were included in this systematic review for final analysis. Six studies investigated the trueness of IOS impressions, but did not reach the same conclusions. One study assessed the precision of IOS impressions for a single implant. Four clinical studies examined the accuracy of IOS implant impressions with a follow-up of 1–2 years. In full arches, IOS impression procedure needed significantly less time than conventional one (mean difference for procedure time was 8.59 min [6.78, 10.40 min], P < 0.001), prosthetic survival rate was 100%, and marginal bone levels of all participants could be stably maintained (mean difference in marginal bone loss at 12 months was 0.03 mm [-0.08, 0.14 mm], P = 0.55).

Conclusions

The accuracy of IOS impressions of implant-supported restorations varied greatly depending on the scanning strategy. The trueness and precision of IOS in the partial and complete arches remain unclear and require further assessment. Based on follow-up clinical studies, IOS impressions were accurate in clinical practice. However, these results should be interpreted with caution, as some evidences are obtained from the same research group.
Create to Collaborate: using creative activity and participatory performance in online workshops to build collaborative research relationships
Authors: Malpass Alice , Breel Astrid , Stubbs Jo , Stevens Tassos , Maravala Persis-Jadé , Shipman Ellie , Banks Gross Zoe , Farr Michelle
Published: December 2023

Background

Creative methods/practices have been highlighted as helpful to develop more collaborative, equitable research partnerships between researchers and communities/public-participants. We asked artist partners to design four online workshops, one on each research priority area: school environments and mental health; wellbeing within the Somali community; air pollution; health data. We aimed to understand whether creative processes can enable public-participants and researcher- participants to meet in a neutral space to discuss a research theme and begin to build collaborative relationships through more equal engagement. Ideas could be taken forwards with seed funding, providing opportunity for collaboration to continue beyond initial workshops.

Methods

Different artist partners designed and facilitated four workshops. Evaluation data was collected on each workshop using participatory observation and fieldnotes, alongside chatlog data, and one-to-one interviews with 21 workshop participants, providing a contextually rich, comparative evaluation across four diverse workshops. Analysis was thematically driven.

Results

Artist partners took different approaches to designing workshops. The workshops began with introductory games and activities, and there was less emphasis on introductions of people’s roles, with the intention to avoid hierarchical dynamics. Whilst public-participants enjoyed this, some researchers found it challenging and reported confusions over their workshop roles. Disrupting usual practice and challenging norms was not always an easy experience. There were examples where emergent, co-created knowledge was enabled. However, it was more challenging to facilitate longer-term collaborative research projects from the workshops due to different stakeholder priorities, and lack of staff time/ less sense of ownership for further work.

Conclusions

Creative activities can influence and impact the types of conversations between public-participants and researchers in a way that changes and challenges power dynamics, shifting towards public-participant driven discussion. Whilst deconstructing hierarchies is important, supporting researchers is key so that any discomfort can be productive and experienced as a vital part of co-production. Longer term collaborative research projects were limited, highlighting a need for facilitation beyond initial workshops, and a sense of ownership from workshop participants to take things forwards. Workshops like these may lend themselves well to research prioritisation. However, taking community-led ideas forwards within research funding landscapes remains challenging.
‘Building bridges’: reflections and recommendations for co-producing health research
Authors: Papageorgiou Vasiliki , Dewa Lindsay H. , Bruton Jane , Murray Keitumetse-Kabelo , Hewlett Nick , Thamm Wezi , Hamza Husseina , Frumiento Pino , Steward Robyn , Bradshaw Melissa , Brooks-Hall Ellie , Petretti Silvia , Ewans Sarah , Williams Mark , Chapko Dorota
Published: December 2023

Background

Co-produced research is when all stakeholders, including experts by experience and researchers, work together to conceptualise, design, deliver and disseminate research to enhance understanding and knowledge. This type of participatory inquiry is being increasingly used across health research; however, it continues to be a complex area to navigate given existing institutional structures.

Main body

We collaborated across three independent co-produced research studies to share insights, reflections, and knowledge of our work in the fields of HIV, mental health, and disability research. We co-designed and delivered a three-hour online workshop at a conference to share these reflections using the metaphor of ‘building bridges’ to describe our co-production journey. We generated key principles of co-production from our different experiences working in each individual research project as well as together across the three projects. Our principles are to: (1) be kind, have fun and learn from each other; (2) share power (as much as you can with people); (3) connect with people you know and don’t know; (4) remain connected; and (5) use clear and simple language.

Conclusion

We recommend that co-produced research needs additional funding, resource, and flexibility to remain impactful and ethical. Co-produced research teams need to be mindful of traditional power structures and ensure that the process is transparent, fair, and ethical. Addressing equality, diversity, and inclusion of traditionally underrepresented groups in research is essential as are the skills, expertise, and experiences of all members of the co-production team.
Healthy life skills and related factors among university students: a cross-sectional study in Istanbul, Turkey
Authors: Rashidi Mahruk , Karaman Funda , Yildirim Gülay , Genç Aslı , Çakmak Sultan , Durusoy Ebru , Saygin Şahin Buse , Elkin Nurten
Published: December 2023

Background

Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of global deaths. University students with unhealthy lifestyle constitute a high-risk group for NCDs. Evaluating and developing healthy behaviors during this period is very important for future health outcomes. This study was conducted to determine healthy life skills in university students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a university, and data were collected between January and March 2023 in Istanbul. Data were collected using the healthy living skills scale in University Students and the Personal Information Form. Normal distribution conditions of the data were checked with the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. According to data distribution, data with normal distribution were analyzed using parametric statistics including t-test, ANOVA and Chi-square tests and data with non-normal distribution were analyzed using non-parametric tests including Mann–Whitney U-test and Fisher’s exact test. Logistic regression test was used to determine predictor variables.

Results

The average score for healthy life skills was 63.5 out of 84. Significant differences were found in the scores based on marital status, economic income, social security insurance coverage, and educational grade (p = 0.03, p = 0.001, p = 0.004, p = 0.04, respectively). Students who reported alcohol and smoking consumption had lower scores (60.8 ± 12) out of 84.

Conclusion

The study revealed that university students in Istanbul possess a satisfactory level of healthy life skills. By providing social support, such as expanding the coverage of social security insurance and establishing conducive educational environments, while also paying attention to the influence of peers on students, we can contribute to the development of healthy life skills in university students.
Minimizing CNOT-count in quantum circuit of the extended Shor’s algorithm for ECDLP
Authors: Liu Xia , Yang Huan , Yang Li
Published: December 2023

The elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem (ECDLP) is a popular choice for cryptosystems due to its high level of security. However, with the advent of the extended Shor’s algorithm, there is concern that ECDLP may soon be vulnerable. While the algorithm does offer hope in solving ECDLP, it is still uncertain whether it can pose a real threat in practice. From the perspective of the quantum circuits of the algorithm, this paper analyzes the feasibility of cracking ECDLP using an ion trap quantum computer with improved quantum circuits for the extended Shor’s algorithm. We give precise quantum circuits for extended Shor’s algorithm to calculate discrete logarithms on elliptic curves over prime fields, including modular subtraction, three different modular multiplication, and modular inverse. Additionally, we incorporate and improve upon windowed arithmetic in the circuits to reduce the CNOT-counts. Whereas previous studies mostly focused on minimizing the number of qubits or the depth of the circuit, we focus on minimizing the number of CNOT gates in the circuit, which greatly affects the running time of the algorithm on an ion trap quantum computer. Specifically, we begin by presenting implementations of basic arithmetic operations with the lowest known CNOT-counts, along with improved constructions for modular inverse, point addition, and windowed arithmetic. Next, we precisely estimate that, to execute the extended Shor’s algorithm with the improved circuits to factor an n-bit integer, the CNOT-count required is $$1237n^3/\log n+2n^2+n$$

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. Finally, we analyze the running time and feasibility of the extended Shor’s algorithm on an ion trap quantum computer.