bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OPTN gene therapy increases autophagy and protects mitochondria in SOD1‐G93A‐expressing transgenic mice and cells
Authors: Wen Di , Ji Yingxiao , Li Yuanyuan , Duan Weisong , Wang Yanyan , Li Zhongyao , Tao Meichun , Liu Yakun
Published: November 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive motor neuron (MN) death. Mutation of the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene, which results in abnormal protein aggregation, is one of the causes of familial ALS. Autophagic dysfunction occurs in SOD1‐G93A mutant mice as the disease progresses, but the etiology of this disease is still unclear. Optineurin (OPTN) is an adaptor that is involved in autophagy and participates in aggrephagy and mitophagy. Previous studies have established that OPTN mutations contribute to diseases such as glaucoma and ALS. However, the function of OPTN in autophagy and mitophagy has not been intensively investigated in models of ALS. In this study, we assessed the beneficial effect of OPTN on autophagy and mitochondrial function by intrathecally injecting adeno‐associated virus 9 (AAV9)‐OPTN into SOD1‐G93A transgenic mice and by administering lentivirus (LV)‐OPTN to cells expressing the SOD1‐G93A mutant protein. The expression of voltage‐dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) was increased and autophagy was elevated after OPTN gene therapy, as shown by a lower level of p62 and a higher level of microtubule‐associated protein 1A/1B‐light chain 3 (LC3)‐II. Moreover, using electron microscopy, we observed a hyperpolarized mitochondrial transmembrane potential and reversal of mitochondrial morphological abnormalities. Furthermore, the protein level of TANK‐binding kinase 1 (TBK1) was increased, suggesting that mitophagy was increased. Our findings from both animal and cell line studies strongly suggest that OPTN gene therapy is a powerful strategy to increase autophagy and protect mitochondria to prevent the progression of ALS and could be effective in the treatment of ALS.
Impact of out‐of‐plane constraint on creep crack growth behavior of M174+ aluminum alloys by nano‐computed tomography (CT)
Authors: Guo Zhimin , Guo Qi , Chen Dahui , Huang Kuidong , Qi Zicheng
Published: November 2023

Nano‐computed tomography (nano‐CT) was utilized to assess the three‐dimensional information on inner damage and reveal the impact and mechanism of out‐of‐plane constraint on creep crack growth (CCG). Experimental findings revealed that stress levels (C* value) altered the impact and mechanism of out‐of‐plane constraint levels on CCG rates. In the lower C* region related to actual serving conditions, the increase in the level of out‐of‐plane constraint accelerated the CCG rates, which could be attributed to a change in the creep fracture mode from creep ductile fracture to creep brittle fracture. Elevated stress levels enlarge the creep deformation and plastic deformation as well as promote the coalescence of holes and propagation of creep cracks, thereby increasing the CCG rates.
Corporate insiders’ exploitation of investors’ anchoring bias at the 52‐week high and low
Authors: Lasfer Meziane , Ye Xiaoke
Published: November 2023

We find that insiders adopt dissimulation strategies to conceal their informational advantage and trade profitably when their firms’ stock prices reach 52‐week highs and lows, exploiting the anchoring biases of uninformed investors. Insiders’ trading profitability depends on their firms’ future stock returns, operating efficiency, and investment sentiment, but not on earnings surprises. We document that male board members and insiders with long investment horizons are more likely to use dissimulation strategies. Overall, we provide evidence that insiders benefit from these price extremes, despite their status as publicly available, irrelevant, historical price levels that normally should not predict future stock returns.
Ethical conference economies? Reimagining the costs of convening academic communities when moving online
Authors: Bastian Michelle , Flatø Emil Henrik , Baraitser Lisa , Jordheim Helge , Salisbury Laura , van Dooren Thom
Published: November 2023

Online conferences are widely thought to reduce many of the costs of convening academic communities. From lower carbon emissions, lower fees, less difficulty in attending (particularly for marginalised researchers), and greater accessibility, virtual events promise to address many of the issues that in‐person events take for granted. In this article, we draw on a community economies framing from geographers J.K. Gibson‐Graham to argue for centring the work of convening within efforts to explore reparative possibilities within the academy. Reflecting on the changing costs arising from moving an originally in‐person conference series online, we argue for embracing the opportunities offered. We explore how organising teams might enact alternative values through allocating the material, financial and labour resources traditionally spent for these events differently. We look particularly at how our carbon and financial costs changed, and how, by retaining a fee, we were able to allocate our budgets in ways which redistributed the surplus to participants in need (rather than bolster conference centre profits). We then explore what these changing costs meant in terms of our attendance levels across career stages and geographical locations. Looking at whether our experiment resulted in increased support for online events, we examine the continued ambivalence felt for the virtual. Finally, while we largely explore the benefits of online options, our last section urges caution over assumptions that this move will result in a more sustainable academia, particularly given the intensifications surrounding high quality streaming video, and suggest that we treat current trends as ongoing experiments, rather than solutions.
Multimorbidity, consisting of a combination of chronic diseases and geriatric syndromes, predicts the risk of difficulty in discharge home in older patients admitted to acute care hospital
Authors: Iwakiri Rika , Hamaya Hironobu , Nakayama Tomohiro , Kataoka Ai , Murano Yoko , Okawa Teiki , Araki Atsushi
Published: November 2023

Aim

To determine whether multimorbidity, consisting of chronic diseases and geriatric syndromes, is associated with home discharge difficulties in older patients.

Methods

A total of 522 older adults (mean age: 85 ± 7 years) who were admitted to an acute care hospital were enrolled. Multimorbidity was assessed by calculating the number of 16 chronic conditions (CCs): 8 chronic diseases (cardiac diseases, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, anemia, dementia, and Parkinson disease) and 8 geriatric syndromes (depression, constipation, chronic pain, polypharmacy, dysphagia, underweight, hypoalbuminemia, and functional limitations). The patients were divided into four groups based on the number of CCs. The outcome was difficulty in discharging home (transfer to other facilities or in‐hospital death). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess independent associations between four CC groups and failure to discharge home after adjusting for age, sex, living alone, and Barthel index and odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated.

Results

Of the 522 patients, 18.8% were transferred to other facilities or died. The proportion of poor outcome in those with 0–2, 3–4, 5–6, and ≥7 CCs was 4.4%, 14.8%, 25.5%, and 37.5%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis after adjusting for covariates revealed that multimorbidity increased the risk of difficulty in discharging home (OR, 2.9 [95% CI, 1.1–8.0] for 3–4 CCs; OR, 4.9 [95% CI, 1.8–13.5] for 5–6 CCs; OR, 8.7 [95% CI, 3.1–24.6] for ≥7 CCs).

Conclusion

Multimorbidity, consisting of chronic diseases and geriatric syndromes, predicted difficulty in discharge home in older patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 300–305.
Carbonate Associated Sulfate Extraction Method Using Weakly Acidic Cation Exchange Resins
Authors: Kochi Takeru , Yoshimura Toshihiro , Ogawa Nanako O. , Ohkouchi Naohiko , Kobayashi Yasuyuki , Kuroda Junichiro
Published: November 2023

The sulfur (S) mass fraction of carbonate minerals can be used to reconstruct the environmental conditions and S sources at the time of precipitation. As S is present in a wide range of host materials, there is an urgent need to develop a method to extract S from a single mineral phase. We have developed a method to extract structurally substituted sulfate, termed carbonate‐associated sulfate (CAS), from geological and biogenic carbonate minerals using weakly acidic cation exchange resins. Two types of weakly acidic cation exchange resin (methacrylic acid and acrylic acid types) were tested to minimise the blank S contents and decompose carbonate. After repeated cleaning of the resins with high‐purity water or HCl, the blank S contents were reduced to < 0.1 μg, which is < 0.1% of the CAS in the samples. The cleaned resin was used to dissolve 10 and 25 mg of the JCp‐1 carbonate certified reference material (CRM; Japanese National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, AIST). Samples and resin were added to 8 ml of high‐purity water at resin/sample ratios of 2, 5, 10 and 20, set on a shaking table, and reacted. The supernatant solutions were sampled sequentially from 0.5 h to 87 h after the start of experiments. The results show that the optimal conditions for decomposing 10 mg of carbonate is a resin/sample ratio of ≥ 10 with a reaction time of ≥ 40 h. Carbonate‐associated S mass fractions were measured for six geological and biogenic carbonate CRMs. The coefficient of variation in carbonate‐associated S mass fractions was ≤ 7%, regardless of the type of resins used. The mass fractions determined with this method recover 74–94% of the total S mass fractions reported in previous studies, suggesting that this method dissolved carbonate, and did not leach other S‐bearing fractions that are not resistant to weak acids. Another benefit of this method is that the decomposed solution can be introduced directly into the ion chromatograph, allowing for more sensitive analyses. We emphasise that this method can also be used for S isotopic measurements, as S contamination from other S‐bearing mineral phases is low.
Recurrence of Helicobacter pylori following successful eradication and clinical outcomes in Korean patients
Authors: Lim Na Rae , Kim Jiyoung , Chung Woo Chul
Published: November 2023

Background/Aims

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections can recur as either recrudescence or reinfection. At a time when the decline in the eradication rate is becoming evident, increases in the rate of recurrence are concerning. In addition, there are no guidelines for selecting an eradication regimen for H. pylori recurrence.

Materials and Methods

A total of 996 H. pylori‐infected patients treated with proton‐pump inhibitor‐based triple eradication therapy between 2017 and 2022 were enrolled in the study, and successful eradication therapies were confirmed by the 13C‐urea breath test. When retested within 1 year after successful eradication, analysis related to recrudescence was performed, and when retested after 1 year, analysis related to reinfection was performed. We reviewed the medical records and treatment outcomes of patients with H. pylori reinfection after successful eradication.

Results

The recrudescence rate was 3.9% (9/228), and the reinfection rate was 3.7% (36/970 person‐year). The frequency of reinfection reached 5.9% per person‐year within the first 24 months and 2.0%–2.4% per person‐year thereafter. In multivariate factor analysis, reinfection was significantly higher in patients with non‐ulcer dyspepsia (p < 0.01). At first‐line therapy for reinfection, the eradication rate of standard triple therapy (STT) was 50.0% (16/32). The eradication rate of second‐line bismuth quadruple therapy was 81.3% (13/16), and levofloxacin‐based rescue therapy was 66.7% (2/3).

Conclusion

Re‐treatment of patients with H. pylori reinfection with STT had limited efficacy. Prospective research is needed to determine whether patients with non‐ulcer dyspepsia are vulnerable to reinfection.
The Gladstone–Dale relation: Applications in oxide glasses
Authors: Tsekrekas Elizabeth M. , Clare Alexis G.
Published: November 2023

The Gladstone–Dale relation is among one of the many formulae put forward in the 19th century to try and relate the index of refraction and density of a material. Compared to other relations of the time, the Gladstone–Dale relation is advantageous as it is relatively simple to use. It has been suggested that the Gladstone–Dale relation can be used as a reliable way to calculate the index of refraction for oxide glasses because of the additive nature of the relation, making it ideal for glass compositions. The reliability of the Gladstone–Dale relation with regards to its use in glass science has been explored. Various oxide glass systems that use different network formers, conditional network formers, modifying oxides, and dopants have been obtained from the literature to determine the reliability of the relation with regards to index‐of‐refraction calculations. The benefits and faults of the relation are discussed, and it was found that it is not universally applicable for all glass compositions.
The effect of Dictyophora indusiata, oats and Polygonatum kingianum on the physicochemical properties and in vitro digestion of pizza crust
Authors: Chen Kejun , Brennan Charles , Brennan Margaret , Cheng Guiguang , Li Lin , Qin Yuyue , Chen Haiyan
Published: November 2023

A high‐glycaemic index diet can lead to elevated blood glucose levels and chronic diseases. In this study, Dictyophora indusiata powder, oats powder and Polygonatum kingianum powder were substituted for some wheat flour to make pizza crust. The aim was to investigate the effects of the three powders on the chemical composition, physical quality, antioxidant properties, in vitro digestibility of starch and sensory characteristics of pizza crust. The addition of the three powders enhanced the nutritional value of the pizza crust, especially the dried Dictyophora indusiata flour and oats powder were rich in dietary fibre and protein, the three powders also increased the total phenolic content (214%) and antioxidant activity (ABTS+185%, DPPH30.5%) of the pizza crust and improved the shelf‐life of the pizza crust. In addition, the three powders increased the slowly digestible starch (25.9%) and decreased the reducing sugar levels and hydrogenation index, and expected glycaemic index of the pizza crust compared to the control group. The results suggest that the three powders could be used as functional ingredients to enhance the nutritional value and lower the glycaemic index of pizza crusts. This study provides new ideas for the development of nutritious and hypoglycaemic functional bakery products.
CCR5 promoter region polymorphisms in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Schauren Juliana da Silveira , de Oliveira Amanda Henrique , Consiglio Camila Rosat , Monticielo Odirlei André , Xavier Ricardo Machado , Nunes Natália Schneider , Ellwanger Joel Henrique , Chies José Artur Bogo
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the impacts of CCR5 promoter region polymorphisms on the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by comparing CCR5 genotypes and haplotypes from SLE patients with ethnically matched controls. A total of 382 SLE patients (289 European‐derived and 93 African‐derived) and 375 controls (243 European‐derived and 132 African‐derived) were genotyped for the CCR2‐64I G > A (rs1799864), CCR5‐59353 C > T (rs1799988), CCR5‐59356 C > T (rs41469351), CCR5‐59402 A > G (rs1800023) and CCR5‐59653 C > T (rs1800024) polymorphisms through polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism and direct sequencing. Previous data from CCR5Δ32 analysis was included in the study to infer the CCR5 haplotypes and as a possible confounding factor in the binary logistic regression. European‐derived patients showed a higher frequency of CCR5 wild‐type genotype (conversely, a reduced frequency of Δ32 allele) and a reduced frequency of the HHG*2 haplotype compared to controls; both factors significantly affecting disease risk [p = .003 (OR 3.5, 95%CI 1.6–7.5) and 2.0% vs. 7.2% (residual p = 2.9E − 5), respectively]. Additionally, the HHA/HHB, HHC and HHG*2 haplotype frequencies differed between African‐derived patients and controls [10% vs. 20.5% (residual p = .003), 29.4% vs. 17.4% (residual p = .003) and 3.9% vs. 0.8% (residual p = .023), respectively]. Considering the clinical manifestations of the disease, the CCR5Δ32 presence was confirmed as a susceptibility factor to class IV nephritis in the African‐derived group and when all patients were grouped for comparison [pcorrected = .012 (OR 3.0; 95%CI 3.0–333.3) and pcorrected = .0006 (OR 6.8; 95%CI 1.9–24.8), respectively]. In conclusion, this study indicates that CCR5 promoter polymorphisms are important disease modifiers in SLE. Present data reinforces the CCR5Δ32 polymorphism as a protective factor for the development of the disease in European‐derived patients and as a susceptibility factor for class IV nephritis in African‐derived patients. Furthermore, we also described a reduced frequency of HHA/HHB and an increased frequency of HHC and HHG*2 haplotypes in African‐derived patients, which could modify the CCR5 protein expression in specific cell subsets.
Tregs protect against invariant NKT cell‐mediated autoimmune colitis and hepatitis
Authors: Venken Koen , Decruy Tine , Sparwasser Tim , Elewaut Dirk
Published: November 2023

Immunomodulatory T cells play a pivotal role in protection against (auto)immune‐mediated diseases that open perspectives for therapeutic modulation. However, how immune regulatory networks operate in vivo is less understood. To this end, we focused on FOXP3+CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) and invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells, two lymphocyte populations that independently regulate adaptive and innate immune responses. In vitro, a functional interplay between Tregs and iNKT cells has been described, but whether Tregs modulate the function and phenotype of iNKT cell subsets in vivo and whether this controls iNKT‐mediated autoimmunity is unclear. Taking advantage of the conditional depletion of Tregs, we examined the in vivo interplay between iNKT and Treg cells in steady state and in preclinical models of liver and gut autoimmunity. Under non‐inflamed conditions, Treg depletion enhanced glycolipid‐mediated iNKT cell responses, with a general impact on Type 1, 2 and 17 iNKT subsets. Moreover, in vivo iNKT activation in the absence of Tregs suppressed the induction of iNKT anergy, consistent with a reduction in programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD‐1) expression. Importantly, we unveiled a clear role for an in vivo Treg‐iNKT crosstalk both in concanavalin A‐induced acute hepatitis and oxazolone‐induced colitis. Here, the absence of Tregs led to a markedly enhanced liver and gut pathology, which was not observed in iNKT‐deficient mice. Taken together, these results provide evidence for a functional interplay between regulatory T cell subsets critical in controlling the onset of autoimmune disease.
The Abeer Children Dental Anxiety Scale (ACDAS) cross‐cultural adaptation and validity of self‐report measures in the Malaysian Children Context (MY‐ACDAS)
Authors: Manan Nor Malina , Musa Sabri , Nor Mariani M. D. , Saari Che Zarrina , Al‐Namankany Abeer
Published: November 2023

Background

The Abeer Children Dental Anxiety Scale (ACDAS) source language was developed and validated in an English‐speaking country in the UK to measure dental anxiety among children. The ACDAS also included the child's cognitive assessment, as well as feedback from the parent or the legal guardian and a dental health professional (DHP). This is the first study to validate the application of the ACDAS in Malay or Bahasa Melayu for children aged 6–16 years.

Aim

To assess the Malay‐translated version of the ACDAS, postadaptation into the local context and validation by the content and construct experts.

Design

The English ACDAS was translated into Malay first through forward translation and then through backward translation. The prefinal translated version of the instrument was designed, with the participation of 61 children and 61 parents or legal guardians. Subsequently, a final cross‐cultural adaptation of the instrument was then made for another group of participants and evaluated for validity and test–retest reliability among 144 children and 144 parents or legal guardians participating in the self‐report feedback process at the Paediatric Dental Clinic, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The cross‐cultural adaptation of the instrument considered translating to Malaysian national language and adapting to its culture.

Results

The Malay‐translated ACDAS consisted of 19 items. The translated version of Malaysian‐ACDAS (MY‐ACDAS) achieved an acceptable agreement between six expert committee members with an internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha value, αconsistency) of 0.839. The test–retest reliability results of all participants support semantic and conceptual equivalence as an accepted construct validity between the children, parents and DHPs across the multicultural Malaysian population.

Conclusion

The MY‐ACDAS is a valid and reliable scale for measuring dental anxiety among Malaysian children.
Beyond Ideals of Friendship
Authors: Keller Simon
Published: November 2023

What makes a friendship a good friendship? One way of answering that question, taken by Aristotle and many philosophers since, is to describe an ideal friendship, and then say that a friendship is a good friendship insofar as it resembles the ideal. An ideal of friendship, so presented, is intended to capture the qualities that all good friendships share, regardless of who the friends are and regardless of their circumstances. This approach to good friendship, I argue, fails to capture the variety of good kinds of friendship and the role of friendship in real human lives. I propose an alternative approach, on which a good friendship is one that improves the lives of the friends by bringing to those lives some of the many disparate values especially associated with friendship. On this view, there are many forms of good friendship, often mutually incompatible; no single kind of friendship is a model for all others; and the point of friendship is to improve the lives of humans as they are, with all their distinguishing weaknesses, limitations, and needs.
A commentary on Ehrlich et al. (2023): a resilience paradox for child development
Authors: Ungar Michael
Published: November 2023

Paradoxically, resilience carries with it the risk of disorder. When understood systemically, this should come as no surprise. All complex systems demonstrate this same propensity for both positive and negative feedback loops. A thriving ecosystem eventually succumbs to its own dominance over its environment, using up available resources until its survival is threatened and its population declines (e.g. predators like coyotes in a national park where hunting is prohibited) (Ward et al., 2018). For this reason, systems that demonstrate powerful resistance to threat are, paradoxically, often made vulnerable by their success.
Circ_0068087 knockdown attenuates high‐glucose‐induced human tubular epithelial cell injury in a microribonucleic acid/progestin and adipoQ receptor 3‐dependent manner in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Liu Shu‐yan , Wang Hong , Yang Bo , Hou Baohua , Sun Li‐sha , Pang Hui , Wang Hui‐hui , Fan Yan‐ping
Published: November 2023

Aims/Introduction

Previous studies have shown that circular ribonucleic acid mediates the occurrence of diabetic nephropathy. This study aimed to analyze the effects of circ_0068087 on high‐glucose (HG)‐induced human kidney 2 (HK2) cell dysfunction.

Materials and Methods

Circ_0068087, miR‐580‐3p, and progestin and adipoQ receptor 3 (PAQR3) expression were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Cell viability and proliferation were investigated by Cell Counting Kit‐8 and EdU assays, respectively. The cell apoptotic rate was assessed by flow cytometry. Inflammatory response was assessed by enzyme‐linked immunoassays. Oxidative stress was evaluated by a superoxide dismutase activity assay kit and lipid peroxidation malondialdehyde assay kit. Molecular interaction was identified by dual‐luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Circ_0068087 and PAQR3 expression were significantly upregulated in diabetic nephropathy patients. HG treatment inhibited HK2 cell proliferation, but induced cell apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress and epithelial–mesenchymal transition by regulating circ_0068087. Circ_0068087 acted as a microribonucleic acid‐580‐3p (miR‐580‐3p) sponge, and miR‐580‐3p targeted PAQR3. Furthermore, circ_0068087 depletion repressed PAQR3 expression through miR‐580‐3p. MiR‐580‐3p inhibitors or PAQR3 introduction attenuated circ_0068087 silencing mediated‐effects in HG‐treated HK2 cells.

Conclusion

Circ_0068087 promoted HG‐induced HK2 cell injuries by the regulation of the miR‐580‐3p/PAQR3 pathway.
The dam that fly ash built
Authors: Montgomery Amy , Kasaniya Mahipal , Zhao Pengfei , Thomas Michael , Peterson Karl
Published: November 2023

When the first concrete was poured in 1949 for the Hungry Horse Dam (Montana, USA), pozzolan cements had already been used in several major North American dams, including Grand Coulee on the Columbia River (diatomaceous earth explored but ultimately not used), Friant on the San Joaquin River and Altus on the North Fork Red River (pumicite) and Bonneville on the Columbia River and Davis on the Colorado River (calcined clay). But Hungry Horse Dam stands out as the first dam constructed using coal combustion fly ash. Utilising 2.4 million cubic metres of concrete, the dam is located on the South Fork Flathead River, one of the tributaries feeding one of the nation's major waterways, the Columbia River, and closely related to the adjacent Glacier National Park. In this respect, Hungry Horse is directly connected to two momentous periods in modern history – the massive adoption in the 1950s of coal as fuel for power plants, and the ongoing threats to fresh water supply and the rapid retreat of alpine glaciers due to global warming. Two concrete cores from this dam, one with fly ash and one without fly ash, are examined microscopically to explore the long‐term suppression of alkali‐aggregate reaction by fly ash. The core without fly ash exhibits clear evidence of alkali‐aggregate reaction, manifested by sandstone coarse aggregate particles with darkened reaction rims. Sandstone coarse aggregate particles of the same lithology in the core with fly ash are without signs of alkali‐aggregate reaction. A detailed examination of the darkened rims indicates that alkali‐silica reaction products fill the narrow gaps between adjacent sand grains in the sandstone. This alkali‐silica gel infilling allows for optical continuity between adjacent sand grains and is responsible for the classic darkened rim associated with the alkali‐aggregate reaction.
Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma in a captive female chimpanzee: A case report
Authors: Alpízar Aide , Fajardo Raul , Martínez José Simón , Ortega Cesar
Published: November 2023

A necropsy was performed on a 43‐year‐old female zoo chimpanzee, with cancer in the vulvar and perivulvar region. She was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, the presence of this tumor in domestic animals and non‐human primates is very rare in the vulvar region and there were no previous reports found on it in chimpanzee, due to which this report contributes to the knowledge on chimpanzee pathologies.
Key stakeholders' perspectives: A gap analysis of hospital‐acquired pressure injuries
Authors: Riley Bettina H. , Pittman Joyce , Otts Jo Ann A. , Mulekar Madhuri S.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Hospital‐acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) are a global high‐stakes patient safety issue. Key stakeholder perspectives regarding their role and experiences with pressure injuries is critical as part of the solution to minimizing HAPI occurrence and attain sustainability.

Design

A qualitative, descriptive approach provided multiple perspectives of key stakeholders to support the complexity of HAPI care. The qualitative data are a part of a mixed method convergent research study examining pressure injury prevention and management practices.

Methods

Nursing system theory, mixed method convergent design, and participatory action research methodologies were chosen to address both the gap analysis development and results, achieve collaborative comprehensiveness, and enable key stakeholder involvement throughout this HAPI prevention and management initiative. Participants were recruited and enrolled from a large Level I trauma hospital and the key stakeholders. Demographic information were collected prior to the individual interview. Focused interviews were conducted virtually using zoom technology. Qualitative data were analyzed using NVivo software and thematic analysis was confirmed across the co‐investigators for congruence and applicability to the research questions.

Results

Qualitative interviews with 26 key stakeholders provided data to support and integrate a link with gap analysis results on the complex health issue of HAPIs. Specific barrier and recommendation themes identified interventions that could be prioritized. The 52 barrier and 52 recommendation themes/sub‐theme(s) respectively were organized by Donabedian (structure, process, and outcome) with structure elements the majority. The top three structure barrier themes involved equipment and standards for use, staff prevention education, and specialized health professionals. The top three structure recommendation themes involved specialized health professionals, equipment and standards for use, and an educational plan for those at risk or with HAPIs.

Conclusion

The article provides findings from the qualitative portion of a mixed method study related to HAPIs. The qualitative findings associated with the gap analysis quantitative results, achieved the goal of the participatory action research key stakeholders' input into HAPI care and can be replicated internationally.

Clinical Relevance

The benefit of key stakeholder's involvement in solving a clinical problem is sustainability. A quantitative approach and integrating qualitative stakeholders' perspectives provide an in‐depth solution that will advance nursing capacity toward health care delivery and HAPI nursing science and policy development on a global level.
Data‐independent acquisition for proteomic applications in early‐stage endometrial cancer progression
Authors: Cheng Yuemei , Xing Yijuan , Du Junhong , Hu Dan , Liang Xiaolei , Liu Chang , Yang Yongxiu
Published: November 2023

Aim

Most endometrial cancer (EC) patients are diagnosed at an early‐stage (FIGO stage I or II), with a favorable prognosis. However, some high‐grade, early‐stage EC patients have unexpected recurrences and undesirable results, the molecular alterations that underlie these tumors are far from being fully understood. Our goal was to use proteome analysis to examine dysregulated pathways in this specific subgroup of EC.

Methods

We used data‐independent acquisition (DIA) quantitative proteomics to analyze cancer and matched paracancerous tissues from 20 EC patients (10 high‐grade and 10 low‐grade). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis was used to validate protein expression of six hub genes.

Results

In total, 7107 proteins were quantified, while 225 downregulated and 366 upregulated proteins in high‐grade cancer tissues, 130 downregulated and 413 upregulated proteins in high‐grade paracancerous tissues. The pathway associated with oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) was upregulated and have similar expression patterns in high‐grade EC tissues and matched paracancerous tissues. OXPHOS‐related protein, ATP5F1D showed the best classification and diagnostic ability in distinguishing high‐grade from low‐grade EC. In both cancer and paracancerous tissues, double‐label immunofluorescence demonstrated ITGA4 and COL4A1 co‐localized at the basal membrane.

Conclusions

Our present works elucidate that metabolism reprogramming is associated with high‐grade, early‐stage EC, particularly OXPHOS is upregulated. Noticeably, the paracancerous tissues have undergone molecular changes similar to cancer tissues, maybe they have signal exchange via secreted proteins (ITGA4 and COL4A1). The upregulation of OXPHOS‐related proteins may be the potential biomarker for EC diagnosis, and targeting OXPHOS metabolism might be an effective treatment for high‐grade, early‐stage EC.
Microaggressions, perceptions of campus climate, mental health, and alcohol use among first‐year college students of color
Authors: Samek Diana R. , Crumly Brianna , Akua Bruno Ache , Dawson Mary , Duke‐Marks Adrienne
Published: November 2023

Depressive and anxiety symptoms are increasingly common, and problematic alcohol use remains prevalent in college. To expand on prior research on mostly white samples, we surveyed first‐year students of color from our predominately white university (Southeastern US) to identify risk factors for mental health symptoms and potentially co‐occurring problematic alcohol use. Results showed significant associations between microaggressions and poor campus climate (hypothetical predictors) with depressive, anxiety, somatic symptoms (hypothetical outcomes) that were indirectly linked through perceived stress, poor sleep, and academic burnout (hypothetical mediators). Poor campus climate, academic burnout, and using alcohol to cope were the most relevant to alcohol use disorder symptoms. Results support efforts to address and reduce racial microaggressions and promote a positive campus climate for all.
The impact of rural general hospital closures on communities—A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Mills Carol A. , Yeager Valerie A. , Unroe Kathleen T. , Holmes Ann , Blackburn Justin
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To compile the literature on the effects of rural hospital closures on the community and summarize the evidence, specifically the health and economic impacts, and identify gaps for future research.

Methods

A systematic review of the relevant peer‐reviewed literature, published from January 2005 through December 2021, included in the EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMed, EconLit, and Business Source Complete databases, as well as “gray” literature published during the same time period. A total of 21 articles were identified for inclusion.

Findings

Over 90% of the included studies were published in the last 8 years, with nearly three‐fourths published in the last 4 years. The most common outcomes studied were economic outcomes and employment (76%), emergent, and non‐emergent transportation, which includes transport miles and travel time (42.8%), access to and supply of health care providers (38%), and quality of patient outcomes (19%). Eighty‐nine percent of the studies that examined economic impacts found unfavorable results, including decreased income, population, and community economic growth, and increased poverty. Between 11 and 15.7 additional minutes were required to transport patients to the nearest emergency facility after closures. A lack of consistency in measures and definition of rurality challenges comparability across studies.

Conclusions

The comprehensive impact of rural hospital closures on communities has not been well studied. Research shows predominantly negative economic outcomes as well as increased time and distance required to access health care services. Additional research and consistency in the outcome measures and definition of rurality is needed to characterize the downstream impact of rural hospital closures.
Pharmacokinetics of gamma‐hydroxybutyric acid in 6‐week‐old swine (Sus scrofa domesticus) after intravenous and oral administration
Authors: Cuypers Charlotte , Devreese Mathias , Van Uytfanghe Katleen , Stove Christophe , Schauvliege Stijn
Published: November 2023

Sedative as well as protective effects during hypoxia have been described for gamma‐hydroxybutyric acid (GHB). Six swine (Sus scrofa domesticus) of 6 weeks old were administered NaGHB at a dose of 500 mg/kg intravenously (IV) and 500 and 750 mg/kg orally (PO) in a triple cross‐over design. Repeated blood sampling was performed to allow pharmacokinetic analysis of GHB. Whole blood concentration at time point 0 after IV administration was 1727.21 ± 280.73 μg/mL, with a volume of distribution of 339.45 ± 51.41 mL/kg and clearance of 164.94 ± 47.05 mL/(kg h). The mean peak plasma concentrations after PO administration were 326.57 ± 36.70 and 488.01 ± 154.62 μg/mL for 500 mg/kg and 750 mg/kg, respectively. These were recorded at 1.42 ± 0.72 and 1.58 ± 0.58 h after PO dose for GHB 500 mg/kg and 750 mg/kg, respectively. The elimination half‐life for IV and PO 500 mg/kg and PO 750 mg/kg dose was respectively 1.33 ± 0.30, 1.16 ± 0.31 and 1.11 ± 0.33 h. The bioavailability (F) for PO administration was 45%. No clinical adverse effects were observed after PO administration. Deep sleep was seen in one animal after IV administration, other animals showed head pressing and ataxia.
We the system: A call for a perspective shift towards systems agency in trainees
Authors: Azim Arden , Sibbald Matt
Published: November 2023

The authors encourage consideration of how medical education can enable "agency literate learners", those who are prepared to negotiate opportunities to improve the health system through clinical care, research, and learning.
Effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and early physical activity on ICU‐acquired weakness in mechanically ventilated patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Othman Sahar Younes , Elbiaa Maysa Abdalla , Mansour Eman R. , El‐Menshawy Ahmed M. , Elsayed Shimmaa Mohamed
Published: November 2023

Background

Intensive care unit‐acquired weakness (ICU‐AW) is common in critically ill patients and increases the duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) and weaning time. Early mobilization, range of motion (ROM) exercises, and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) can prevent ICU‐AW by maintaining muscle mass. However, studies highlighting the effects of combining NMES with early physical activity in ICU patients are limited.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of NMES and early physical activity on ICU‐AW in mechanically ventilated patients.

Study Design

A single‐blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted in Alexandria, Egypt. Patients were randomly assigned to one of four groups: NMES, ROM, combined therapy (ROM + NMES), or conventional care (control group). The Medical Research Council (MRC) scale was used to assess the ICU‐AW for the study patients over a 7‐day period. The duration of the patient's MV and ICU stays were recorded.

Results

Of the 180 patients who were assessed for eligibility, 124 were randomly assigned to one of four groups: 32 patients in ROM exercises, 30 in NMES, 31 in combined therapy (ROM + NMES), and 31 in the control group. On day 7, ROM + NMES and NMES groups showed higher MRC scores than ROM and control groups (50.37 ± 2.34, 49.77 ± 2.19, 44.97 ± 3.61, and 41.10 ± 3.84, respectively). ANOVA test results indicated significant differences (p < .001) across the four groups. ICU‐AW occurred in 0% of the ROM + NMES group, 60% of the ROM group, 13% of the NMES group, and 100% of the control group (p < .001). The MV duration (in days) in the ROM + NMES group was shorter (12.80 ± 3.800) than in the ROM, NMES, or control groups (21.80 ± 4.460, 18.73 ± 4.748, and 20.70 ± 3.932, respectively). ICU‐LOS was shorter in the ROM + NMES group (17.43 ± 3.17 days) compared with the ROM group (22.53 ± 4.51 days), the NMES group (21.10 ± 5.0 days), and the control group (21.50 ± 4.42 days) with significant differences (p < .001) between the four groups.

Conclusion

Daily sessions of NMES and early physical activity were well tolerated, preserved muscle strength, prevented ICU‐AW, and decreased the duration of the MV and ICU stay.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The findings of this study support the use of NMES and early physical exercises by critical care nurses as part of routine care for critically ill patients.
Aristolochia mimics stink bugs to repel vertebrate herbivores via TRPA1 activation
Authors: Yu Yu‐Long , Ge Jia , Dong Wen‐Qi , Chomicki Guillaume , Yang Shi‐Long , Geng Yupeng , Chen Gao
Published: November 2023

Mimicry is the phenomenon in which one species (the mimic) closely resembles another (the model), enhancing its own fitness by deceiving a third party into interacting with it as if it were the model. In plants, mimicry is used primarily to gain fitness by withholding rewards from mutualists or deterring herbivores cost‐effectively. While extensive work has been documented on putative defence mimicry, limited investigation has been conducted in the field of chemical mimicry.

In this study, we used field experiments, chemical analyses, behavioural assays, and electrophysiology, to test the hypothesis that the birthwort Aristolochia delavayi employs chemical mimicry by releasing leaf scent that closely resembles stink bug defensive compounds and repels vertebrate herbivores.

We show that A. delavayi leaf scent is chemically and functionally similar to the generalized defensive volatiles of stink bugs and that the scent effectively deters vertebrate herbivores, likely through the activation of TRPA1 channels via (E)‐2‐alkenal compounds.

This study provides an unequivocal example of chemical mimicry in plants, revealing intricate dynamics between plants and vertebrate herbivores. Our study underscores the potency of chemical volatiles in countering vertebrate herbivory, urging further research to uncover their potentially underestimated importance.
Psychedelia: The interplay of music and psychedelics
Authors: Jerotic Katarina , Vuust Peter , Kringelbach Morten L.
Published: November 2023

Music and psychedelics have been intertwined throughout the existence of Homo sapiens, from the early shamanic rituals of the Americas and Africa to the modern use of psychedelic‐assisted therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Across such settings, music has been highly prized for its ability to guide the psychedelic experience. Here, we examine the interplay between music and psychedelics, starting by describing their association with the brain's functional hierarchy that is relied upon for music perception and its psychedelic‐induced manipulation, as well as an exploration of the limited research on their mechanistic neural overlap. We explore music's role in Western psychedelic therapy and the use of music in indigenous psychedelic rituals, with a specific focus on ayahuasca and the Santo Daime Church. Furthermore, we explore work relating to the evolution and onset of music and psychedelic use. Finally, we consider music's potential to lead to altered states of consciousness in the absence of psychedelics as well as the development of psychedelic music. Here, we provide an overview of several perspectives on the interaction between psychedelic use and music—a topic with growing interest given increasing excitement relating to the therapeutic efficacy of psychedelic interventions.
Refractive extended depth‐of‐focus lens design based on periodic power profile for presbyopia correction
Authors: Lyu Jiakai , Bang Seung Pil , Yoon Geunyoung
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Limitations of existing diffractive multifocal designs for presbyopia correction include discrete foci and photic phenomena such as halos and glare. This study aimed to explore a methodology for developing refractive extended depth‐of‐focus (EDoF) lenses based on a periodic power profile.

Methods

The proposed design technique employed an optical power profile that periodically alternated between far, intermediate and near distances across the pupil radius. To evaluate the lens designs, optical bench testing was conducted. The impact on visual performance was assessed using a spatial light modulator‐based adaptive optics vision simulator in human subjects. Additionally, the effects of pupil size change and lens decentration on retinal image quality were examined. A comparative performance analysis was carried out against a typical diffractive trifocal design and a monofocal lens.

Results

The proposed design method was found to be effective in uniformly distributing light energy across all object distances within the desired depth of focus (DoF). While trade‐offs between overall image quality and DoF still exist, the EDoF lens design, when tested in human subjects, provided a continuous DoF spanning over 2.25 D. The results also revealed that the EDoF design had a slightly higher dependence on changes in pupil size and lens decentration than the diffractive trifocal design.

Conclusion

The proposed design method showed significant potential as an approach for developing refractive EDoF ophthalmic lenses. These lenses offer a continuous DoF but are slightly more susceptible to variations in pupil size and decentration compared with the diffractive trifocal design.
Development and validation of a predictive model for persistent opioid use in new opioid analgesic users via a nationwide claims database
Authors: Noh Yoojin , Heo Kyu‐Nam , Cho Won Bean , Lee Ju‐Yeun , Ah Young‐Mi
Published: November 2023

Background

Chronic opioid use is associated with problematic opioid use, such as opioid abuse. It is important to develop a prediction model for safe opioid use. In this study, we aimed to develop and validate a risk score model for chronic opioid use in opioid‐naïve, noncancer patients, using data from a nationwide database.

Methods

Data from the National Health Insurance Claims Database in the Republic of Korea from 2016 to 2018 were used, and adult, noncancer patients who were started on non‐injectable opioid analgesics (NIOAs) were included. The risk score model was developed using the β coefficient of each variable in the multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 676,676 noncancer patients were started on NIOAs, of which 65,877 (9.7%) were prescribed NIOAs chronically. Age, baseline healthcare utilization, comorbidities, co‐medications, and pattern of first NIOA prescription were identified as risk factors for chronic opioid use. The c‐static for the performance of our risk score model was 0.754 (95% confidence interval, 0.750–0.758).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first tool that can predict chronic opioid use in the Korean population. The model can help physicians examine the risk of chronic opioid use by patients who are started on NIOA.