bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity and temporomandibular joint disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Xia , Yang Yan , Lin Linni , Yao Qianqian , Zhang Jingjing
Published: August 2023

Background

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) is the most common non-dental pain complaint in the maxillofacial region, which presents a variety of symptoms and signs, including temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and masticatory muscle pain, joint noise, tinnitus, headaches, irregular or restricted mandibular function, masticatory difficulty, and restricted mouth opening. When comes to the relationship between obesity and TMD, it has remained controversial and inconsistent, therefore, we first conducted this meta-analysis to estimate the unclear relationship between obesity and TMD.

Methods

Searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Subjects were divided into five groups according to BMI level in this study, including the normal weight group: 18.5 ≤ BMI < 25, overweight group: 25 ≤ BMI < 30, obesity group: BMI ≥ 30, control group: BMI < 25, and overweight and obesity group: BMI ≥ 25. Statistics analyses were conducted using Stata (15.0). The number of PROSPERO was CRD42022368315.

Results

Eight studies were included in this study, and six articles with a total of 74,056 participants were synthesized for meta-analysis. Compared to normal weight individuals, overweight and obesity together decreased the risk of TMD (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.46–0.95), and it was significantly decreased by obesity alone (OR = 0.58). Moreover, it was lower in obesity compared with control subjects (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.73–0.94). Furthermore, in overweight and obese individuals, it was much lower in obesity than in overweight (OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.71–0.94).

Conclusions

Obesity is not a risk factor for TMD, and maybe a protective factor for TMD, of which patients with larger BMI are less likely to suffer from TMD pain. Therefore, the value of BMI should be taken into consideration in the assessment of TMD.
Construction and application on the training course of information literacy for clinical nurses
Authors: Wu Chao , Zhang Yinjuan , Wu Jing , Zhang Linyuan , Du Juan , Li Lu , Chen Nana , Zhu Liping , Zhao Sheng , Lang Hongjuan
Published: August 2023

Design

A two-round Delphi survey was conducted to seek opinions from experts about the index system for the evaluation of training courses of clinical nursing staff’s information literacy. Besides, a non-randomized controlled experimental study was adopted to check the application effect of the training courses.

Aims

This study intended to construct a training course of information literacy for clinical nurses, train nurses in order to improve their information literacy level and provide theoretical reference for the training of information literacy courses for clinical nurses.

Methods

Two rounds of Delphi study were conducted for the study among 26 clinical medical and nursing experts as well as educational experts from 5 different provinces and cities in China. From July 2022 to October 2022, a total of 84 clinical nurses from two hospitals were selected by the convenience sampling method, of which the nurses in one hospital were the control group and the nurses in the other hospital were the observation group. 42 nurses in the observation group were trained by the constructed information literacy training course. Questionnaire evaluation was used to compare the differences in the level of information literacy of nurses and the training effect between the two groups.

Results

The results of the Delphi consultation showed that the expert’s judgment coefficient was 0.958, the expert’s familiarity was 0.946, and the expert’s authority coefficient was 0.952. Finally, a training course of information literacy for clinical nurses with 4 course categories and 45 specific course contents was formed. Among them, nursing information awareness included 7 courses, nursing information knowledge 15 courses, nursing information ability 19 courses, and nursing information ethics 4 courses. The results of the empirical study showed that the information literacy level of the nurses in the observation group after the training of the information literacy course was improved, and the scores in nursing information awareness, nursing information knowledge, nursing information ability, and information ethics were significantly higher than those in the control group after training (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The constructed information literacy training courses for clinical nurses were clearly targeted and systematic. Empirical research showed that the course contents were scientific and reasonable, which could provide reference for the training of clinical nurses’ information literacy.
A review on the biological roles of LncRNA PTCSC3 in cancerous and non-cancerous disorders
Authors: Ghasemian Majid , Poodineh Jafar
Published: August 2023

Long non-coding RNA papillary thyroid carcinoma susceptibility candidate 3 (LncRNA PTCSC3) is located on human chromosome 14q13.3. PTCSC3 functions as a tumor suppressor lncRNA to regulate essential cellular processes such as apoptosis, cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. PTCSC3 is also involved in the regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, aerobic glycolysis, and p53 pathways. Downregulation of PTCSC3 has been associated with an increased risk of many tumors such as thyroid, gastric, laryngeal, breast, cervical, oral, lung, and glioma cancers. In addition, dysregulation of PTCSC3 has been reported in non-cancerous disorders notably osteoporosis and periodontitis. However, a number of single nucleotide polymorphisms at PTCSC3 have been linked to a higher risk of human diseases. This literature review summarizes the diagnostic, prognostic, and the clinical value of abnormal expression of PTCSC3 in cancerous and non-cancerous disorders and comprehensively analyzes potential molecular regulatory mechanism related to PTCSC3, which is expected to provide clear guidance for future PTCSC3 research.
Biomimetic nanoparticles to enhance the reverse cholesterol transport for selectively inhibiting development into foam cell in atherosclerosis
Authors: Zhu Li , Li Hongjiao , Li Jiyu , Zhong Yuan , Wu Shuai , Yan Meng , Ni Sheng , Zhang Kun , Wang Guixue , Qu Kai , Yang Deqin , Qin Xian , Wu Wei
Published: August 2023

A disorder of cholesterol homeostasis is one of the main initiating factors in the progression of atherosclerosis (AS). Metabolism and removal of excess cholesterol facilitates the prevention of foam cell formation. However, the failure of treatment with drugs (e.g. methotrexate, MTX) to effectively regulate progression of disease may be related to the limited drug bioavailability and rapid clearance by immune system. Thus, based on the inflammatory lesion “recruitment” properties of macrophages, MTX nanoparticles (MTX NPs) camouflaged with macrophage membranes (MM@MTX NPs) were constructed for the target to AS plaques. MM@MTX NPs exhibited a uniform hydrodynamic size around ~ 360 nm and controlled drug release properties (~ 72% at 12 h). After the macrophage membranes (MM) functionalized “homing” target delivery to AS plaques, MM@MTX NPs improved the solubility of cholesterol by the functionalized β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) component and significantly elevate cholesterol efflux by the loaded MTX mediated the increased expression levels of ABCA1, SR-B1, CYP27A1, resulting in efficiently inhibiting the formation of foam cells. Furthermore, MM@MTX NPs could significantly reduce the area of plaque, aortic plaque and cholesterol crystals deposition in ApoE−/− mice and exhibited biocompatibility. It is suggested that MM@MTX NPs were a safe and efficient therapeutic platform for AS.

Graphical Abstract
Modified-Malay Eating Behavior and Pattern Questionnaire (Malay-EBPQ): translation and validation among Malaysian women
Authors: Supramaniam Premaa , Ismail Siti Hajar , Ali Aisyah , Leong E- Li , Muninathan Prema , Adnan Tassha Hilda , Paramesvaran Sarala
Published: August 2023

Background

Eating behavior primarily depends on eating patterns which are largely influenced by interactions between physiology, environment, psychology, culture and socio-economic status. This study was designed to translate and validate the Eating Behavior Pattern Questionnaire (EBPQ) among Malaysian women.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving translation and validation of the English version of EBPQ. The original questionnaire, contained 51 items extracted into six domains was translated in Malay using forward and backward translation, pre-tested and validated among conveniently sampled female healthcare personnel. Vegetarians, pregnant ladies and women in confinement were excluded due to special daily dietary plans. Construct validity, reliability and feasibility were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA).

Results

During translation, item modifications were made and subjected to field testing among 394 women. The original questionnaire was used as a reference to identify the positioning of items in constructs. Fifteen items were removed due to poor correlation with items within constructs. Seven factors were extracted using Varimax rotation with Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) value range from 0.725–0.872 and significant Bartlett’s test of Sphericity (p < 0.001). The item-loading of the items within the constructs ranged between 0.415–0.812 (explained variation = 62.7%). Cultural and lifestyle behavior was relabeled to lifestyle and behavioral eating, and snacking on sweets was relabeled as snacking pattern. Emotional eating was divided into two sub-factors as snacking behavior and emotional influence. CFA resulted with an acceptable fit with no presence of floor and ceiling effects. Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) for all the constructs were reported good and excellent. The overall internal consistency was reported as good.

Conclusion

The modified 36-item Malay-EBPQ had moderate internal consistency, reliable and fit with multi-dimensional measures of eating behaviors and dietary patterns among women in the multi-racial population with cultural diversity.
Economic burden of breast cancer: a case of Southern Iran
Authors: Jalali Faride Sadat , Keshavarz Khosro , Seif Mozhgan , Akrami Majid , Jafari Abdosaleh , Ravangard Ramin
Published: August 2023

Background

Breast cancer is one of the main causes of death from cancer around the world, imposing a significant economic burden on the families and healthcare system. The present study aimed at determining the economic burden of breast cancer in the patients referred to the medical centers in Fars province in southern Iran in 2021.

Methods

This cross-sectional study is a partial economic evaluation and a cost-of-illness study with a bottom-up and prevalence-based approach, conducted in Fars province in southern Iran in 2021 from the societal perspective. A total of 230 patients were randomly included in the study, and a researcher-made data collection form was used to collect the required data. The data on direct medical costs were collected using the information on patients’ medical and financial records. On the other hand, the data on direct non-medical and indirect costs were obtained using self-reports by the patients or their companions. The Excel 2016 software was used to analyze the collected data.

Results

The results showed that the annual cost of each breast cancer patient in the studied sample was 11,979.09 USD in 2021. Direct medical costs accounted for the largest share of costs (70.69%, among which the cost of radiotherapy was the highest one. The economic burden of the disease in the country was estimated at 193,090,952 USD.

Conclusions

In general, due to the high prevalence of breast cancer and the chronicity of this disease, its medical costs can impose a heavy economic burden on society, the health system, the insurance system, and patients. Thus, in order to reduce the costs, the following suggestions can be offered: the use of advanced radiotherapy techniques, increasing the insurance coverage of required services, establishing low-cost accommodation centers near medical centers for the patients and their companions, providing specialized medical services for the patients in towns, using the Internet and virtual space to follow up the treatment of the patients, and carrying out free screening programs and tests for faster diagnosis of the infected patients and susceptible or exposed people.
Analysis of cumulative live birth rate outcomes of three ovarian stimulation protocols in patients after laparoscopic cystectomy of ovarial endometrioma: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Li Jiaheng , Li Yijiang , Li Mengnuo , Zhao Xianling , Zheng Wei , Zhang Junwei , Zhang Yuchao , Li Jing , Guan Yichun
Published: August 2023

Background

Previous studies have reported that after laparoscopic cystectomy of ovarial endometrioma, the ovarian response to gonadotropin (Gn) significantly decreased. However, for patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) after ovarian surgery, how to choose the most appropriate controlled ovarian hyperstimulation protocol has not been concluded. Compared with the traditional agonist regimen, the gonadotropin (Gn)-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist, microstimulation, and progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) protocols are simple to operate and have a shorter cycle, which are often used in patients with DOR. So the purpose of our study is to compare the assisted reproductive outcomes of these three controlled ovarian hyperstimulation protocols in patients with DOR following laparoscopic cystectomy of ovarial endometrioma.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 89 patients with DOR who had undergone in vitro fertilisation/intracytoplasmic sperm injection at the Department of Reproductive Medicine at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from 1 to 2018 to 31 December 2020 were included. According to the controlled ovarian hyperstimulation protocols employed, the patients were divided into GnRH antagonist (38 patients), PPOS (27 patients), and microstimulation (24 patients) groups. The basic data and clinical outcomes of the three groups were compared. The main outcome measure was the cumulative live birth rate.

Results

No significant differences in the age of the female patients and their spouses and female patients’ body mass index and basal endocrine levels (follicle-stimulating hormone and oestradiol) were noted among the three groups (P > 0.05). The GnRH antagonist group had higher antral follicle counts, greater endometrial thickness on the human chorionic Gn injection day, greater number of oocytes retrieved, and higher two pronuclear embryo counts than did the other two groups. However, the starting dosage of Gn was lower in the GnRH antagonist group than in the other two groups. The microstimulation group had a significantly higher oocyte output rate and high-quality embryo rate than did the other two groups (P < 0.05). No significant differences in the total dosage of Gn, cumulative pregnancy rate, cumulative live birth rate, viable embryo rate, and blastocyst formation rate were observed among the three groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

In conclusion, for patients aged under 40 years who experienced DOR after laparoscopic cystectomy of ovarial endometrioma, GnRH antagonist protocol and PPOS protocol can obtain better ovulation induction outcomes and cumulative live birth rate than microstimulation protocol, and are more suitable ovulation induction protocols.
Minimal resin embedding of SBF-SEM samples reduces charging and facilitates finding a surface-linked region of interest
Authors: Konopová Barbora , Týč Jiří
Published: August 2023

Background

For decoding the mechanism of how cells and organs function information on their ultrastructure is essential. High-resolution 3D imaging has revolutionized morphology. Serial block face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM) offers non-laborious, automated imaging in 3D of up to ~ 1 mm3large biological objects at nanometer-scale resolution. For many samples there are obstacles. Quality imaging is often hampered by charging effects, which originate in the nonconductive resin used for embedding. Especially, if the imaged region of interest (ROI) includes the surface of the sample and neighbours the empty resin, which insulates the object. This extra resin also obscures the sample’s morphology, thus making navigation to the ROI difficult.

Results

Using the example of small arthropods and a fish roe we describe a workflow to prepare samples for SBF-SEM using the minimal resin (MR) embedding method. We show that for imaging of surface structures this simple approach conveniently tackles and solves both of the two major problems—charging and ROI localization—that complicate imaging of SBF-SEM samples embedded in an excess of overlying resin. As the surface ROI is not masked by the resin, samples can be precisely trimmed before they are placed into the imaging chamber. The initial approaching step is fast and easy. No extra trimming inside the microscope is necessary. Importantly, charging is absent or greatly reduced meaning that imaging can be accomplished under good vacuum conditions, typically at the optimal high vacuum. This leads to better resolution, better signal to noise ratio, and faster image acquisition.

Conclusions

In MR embedded samples charging is minimized and ROI easily targeted. MR embedding does not require any special equipment or skills. It saves effort, microscope time and eventually leads to high quality data. Studies on surface-linked ROIs, or any samples normally surrounded by the excess of resin, would benefit from adopting the technique.
Malakoplakia with aberrant ALK expression by immunohistochemistry: a case report
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Ying , Li Jun , Chen Shui-lian , Li Ying , Wang Hao , He Jin-hua
Published: August 2023

Background

Malakoplakia is a rare inflammatory disease of the urogenital tract. There have been no reports of malakoplakia expressing anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) to date. Here, we present one case of malakoplakia with aberrant ALK expression by immunohistochemistry and discuss the clinical significance.

Case presentation

A 65-year-old Chinese woman with a history of diabetes presented with solid masses in the liver and kidney and elevated lesions on the mucosal surface of the colon. Right nephrectomy and partial liver resection were performed. Microscopically, sheets of histiocytes with poor intercellular adhesion were seen, with Michaelis–Gutmann bodies present in both the intracellular and extracellular interstitium. CD10-, CD68-, and CD163-positive cells were present, with Michaelis–Gutmann bodies confirmed by staining with Alcian blue, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), periodic acid-Schiff with diastase, Von Kossa, and Prussian blue. Aberrant ALK1 and ALK (D5F3) expression was observed in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells. However, ALK gene mutation was not detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization or whole exome next-generation sequencing. NGS revealed nine individual somatic gene mutations: GOT1L1, GLIS2, SPOUT1, TMEM97, MUC3A, NSD2, SFXN5, ADAD1 and RAD50. The significance of the somatic gene mutations detected in this study is not clear, and the relationship between them and malakoplakia cannot be clarified by existing scientific studies. The pathological diagnosis was malakoplakia with aberrant ALK expression by immunohistochemistry. The antibiotics imipenem and vancomycin were started based on the results of drug sensitivity analysis and the patient was subsequently discharged. She experienced no discomfort during 30 months of follow-up.

Conclusion

This is the first reported case of malakoplakia with aberrant ALK expression, it should be differentiated from ALK-positive histiocytosis to avoid misdiagnosis.
The application of 3D-printed auto-stable artificial vertebral body in en bloc resection and reconstruction of thoracolumbar metastases
Authors: Cao Yun , Yang Nan , Wang Shengbao , Wang Cong , He Qiang , Wu Qinfan , Zheng Yangyang
Published: August 2023

Background

Nerve compression symptoms and spinal instability, resulting from spinal metastases, significantly impact the quality of life for patients. A 3D-printed vertebral body is considered an effective approach to reconstruct bone defects following en bloc resection of spinal tumors. The advantage of this method lies in its customized shape and innermost porous structure, which promotes bone ingrowth and leads to reduced postoperative complications.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of 3D-printed auto-stable artificial vertebrae in the en bloc resection and reconstruction of thoracolumbar metastases.

Methods

This study included patients who underwent en bloc resection of thoracolumbar metastases based on the Weinstein-Boriani-Biagini surgical staging system, between January 2019 and April 2021. The patients were divided into two groups: the observation group, which was reconstructed using 3D-printed auto-stable vertebral bodies, and the control group, treated with titanium cages and allograft bone. Evaluation criteria for the patients included assessment of implant subsidence, instrumentation-related complications, VAS score, and Frankel grading of spinal cord injury.

Results

The median follow-up period was 21.8 months (range 12–38 months). Among the patients, 10 received a customized 3D-printed artificial vertebral body, while the remaining 10 received a titanium cage. The observation group showed significantly lower operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative drainage compared to the control group (P < 0.05). At the final follow-up, the average implant subsidence was 1.8 ± 2.1 mm for the observation group and 5.2 ± 5.1 mm for the control group (P < 0.05). The visual analog scale (VAS) scores were not statistically different between the two groups at preoperative, 24 h, 3 months, and 1 year after the operation (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the improvements of spinal cord functions between the two groups.

Conclusion

The utilization of a 3D-printed auto-stable artificial vertebra for reconstruction following en bloc resection of thoracolumbar metastases appears to be a viable and dependable choice. The low occurrence of prosthesis subsidence with 3D-printed prostheses can offer immediate and robust stability.
Exploring the methylation status of CFTR and PKIA genes as potential biomarkers for lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xu Bowen , Zhang Jingang , Chen Weigang , Cai Wei
Published: August 2023

Background

One of the most prevalent cancers in the world is lung cancer, with adenocarcinoma (LUAD) making up a significant portion of cases. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), there are new cases and fatality rates per 100,000 individuals as follows: New instances of lung and bronchial cancer occur annually at a rate of 50.0 per 100,000 persons. The yearly death rate for men and women is 35.0 per 100,000. DNA methylation is one of the earliest discovered and widely studied epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, and its abnormality is closely related to the occurrence and development of cancer. However, the prognostic value of DNA methylation and LUAD needs to be further explored to improve the survival prediction of LUAD patients.

Methods

The transcriptome data and clinical data of LUAD were downloaded from TCGA and GEO databases, and the Illumina Human Methylation450 array (450k array) data were downloaded from the TCGA database. Firstly, the intersection of the expressed genes of the two databases is corrected, the differential analysis is performed, and the methylation data is evaluated by the MethylMix package to obtain differentially methylated genes. Independent prognostic genes were screened out using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, and a methylation prognostic model was developed using univariate Cox analysis and validated with the GSE30219 dataset in the GEO database. Survival analysis between methylation high-risk and low-risk groups was performed and a methylation-based gene prognostic model was constructed. Finally, the prediction of potential drugs associated with the LUAD gene signature using Drug Sensitivity Genomics in Cancer (GDSC).

Results

In this study, a total of 555 samples from the TCGA database and 307 samples from GSE30219 were included, and a total of 24 differential methylation driver genes were identified. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyzes were used to screen out independent prognostic genes, involving 2 genes: CFTR, PKIA. Survival analysis was different between the methylation high-risk group and the low-risk group, the CFTR high methylation group and the low methylation group were poor, and the opposite was true for PKIA.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that the methylation status of CFTR and PKIA can serve as potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in lung cancer.
A systematic review of clinical effectiveness and safety for historical and current treatment options for metachromatic leukodystrophy in children, including atidarsagene autotemcel
Authors: Armstrong Nigel , Olaye Andrew , Noake Caro , Pang Francis
Published: August 2023

Objective

To understand the benefit-risk profile for historical and current treatments for MLD.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted on the effectiveness, safety, and costs of MLD treatments: allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and atidarsagene autotemcel (arsa-cel) according to best practice.

Results

A total of 6940 titles and abstracts were retrieved from the literature searches and 26 from other sources. From these, 35 manuscripts reporting on a total of 12 studies were selected for inclusion in the review. There were no controlled multi-armed trials. However, we provide observations comparing two interventional therapies (alloHSCT and arsa-cel) and each of these to standard/supportive care (natural history). There were no benefits for survival, gross motor function and cognitive function for LI patients receiving alloHSCT, as patients experienced disease progression similar to LI natural history. For juvenile patients receiving alloHSCT, no differences in survival were observed versus natural history, however stabilisation of cognitive and motor function were reported for some patients (particularly for pre- or minimally-symptomatic LJ patients), while others experienced disease progression. Furthermore, alloHSCT was associated with severe complications such as treatment-related mortality, graft versus host disease, and re-transplantation in both LI and EJ treated patients. Most LI and EJ patients treated with arsa-cel appeared to have normal development, preservation, or slower progression of gross motor function and cognitive function, in contrast to the rapid decline observed in natural history patients. A survival benefit for arsa-cel versus natural history and versus alloHSCT was observed in LI patients.LI and EJ patients treated with arsa-cel had better gross motor function and cognitive function compared to alloHSCT, which had limited effect on motor and cognitive decline. No data has been reported for arsa-cel treatment of LJ patients.

Conclusions

Overall, this systematic review indicates that compared to NHx and HSCT, treatment with arsa-cel results in clinically relevant benefits in LI and EJ MLD patients by preserving cognitive function and motor development in most patients, and increased survival for LI patients. Nevertheless, further research is required to confirm these findings, given they are based on results from non-RCT studies.
A patient perspective on applying intermittent fasting in gynecologic cancer
Authors: Redding Ashley , Santarossa Sara , Murphy Dana , Udumula Mary Priyanka , Munkarah Adnan , Hijaz Miriana , Rattan Ramandeep
Published: August 2023

Objective

Researchers sought patient feedback on a proposed randomized controlled trial (RCT) in which gynecological cancer patients would modify their diets with intermittent fasting to gain insight into patients’ perspectives, receptivity, and potential obstacles. A convenience sample of 47 patients who met the inclusion criteria of the proposed RCT provided their feedback on the feasibility and protocols of the RCT using a multi-method approach consisting of focus groups (n = 8 patients) and surveys (n = 36 patients).

Results

Patients were generally receptive to the concept of intermittent fasting, and many expressed an interest in attempting it themselves. Patients agreed that the study design was feasible in terms of study assessments, clinic visits, and biospecimen collection. Feedback on what could facilitate adherence included convenient appointment scheduling times and the availability of the research team to answer questions. Regarding recruitment, patients offered suggestions for study advertisements, with the majority concurring that a medical professional approaching them would increase their likelihood of participation.
Repeat length of C9orf72-associated glycine–alanine polypeptides affects their toxicity
Authors: Morón-Oset Javier , Fischer Lilly Katharina Sophie , Jauré Nathalie , Zhang Pingze , Jahn Annika Julia , Supèr Tessa , Pahl André , Isaacs Adrian M. , Grönke Sebastian , Partridge Linda
Published: August 2023

G4C2 hexanucleotide repeat expansions in a non-coding region of the C9orf72 gene are the most common cause of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). G4C2 insertion length is variable, and patients can carry up to several thousand repeats. Dipeptide repeat proteins (DPRs) translated from G4C2 transcripts are thought to be a main driver of toxicity. Experiments in model organisms with relatively short DPRs have shown that arginine-rich DPRs are most toxic, while polyGlycine–Alanine (GA) DPRs cause only mild toxicity. However, GA is the most abundant DPR in patient brains, and experimental work in animals has generally relied on the use of low numbers of repeats, with DPRs often tagged for in vivo tracking. Whether repeat length or tagging affect the toxicity of GA has not been systematically assessed. Therefore, we generated Drosophila fly lines expressing GA100, GA200 or GA400 specifically in adult neurons. Consistent with previous studies, expression of GA100 and GA200 caused only mild toxicity. In contrast, neuronal expression of GA400 drastically reduced climbing ability and survival of flies, indicating that long GA DPRs can be highly toxic in vivo. This toxicity could be abolished by tagging GA400. Proteomics analysis of fly brains showed a repeat-length-dependent modulation of the brain proteome, with GA400 causing earlier and stronger changes than shorter GA proteins. PolyGA expression up-regulated proteins involved in ER to Golgi trafficking, and down-regulated proteins involved in insulin signalling. Experimental down-regulation of Tango1, a highly conserved regulator of ER-to Golgi transport, partially rescued GA400 toxicity, suggesting that misregulation of this process contributes to polyGA toxicity. Experimentally increasing insulin signaling also rescued GA toxicity. In summary, our data show that long polyGA proteins can be highly toxic in vivo, and that they may therefore contribute to ALS/FTD pathogenesis in patients.
Regional variation of the influence of cross-equatorial northerly surge towards diurnal cycle of rainfall over Java Island
Authors: Maulana Madam Taqiyya , Yamazaki Takeshi , Iwasaki Toshiki , Abdillah Muhammad Rais
Published: August 2023

Cross-equatorial northerly surge (CENS) is known to cause torrential rainfall over Java Island in the Maritime Continent. Some studies indicated that the rainfall increase is attributed to changes in the diurnal cycle of rainfall (DCR) in northwestern Java. It is not well understood whether the DCR changes are present in the other parts of Java Island and whether the changes are similar to those in northwestern Java. This study performs climatological analyses to investigate the regional variation of the influence of the CENS on the DCR over Java Island using IMERG and ERA5 data sets of 20 years of boreal winter. We find that there are differences in intensity, timing, and coverage of DCR responses over western, central, and eastern Java. CENS modifies the timing of coastal rainfall on the northern coast, resulting in early morning rainfall enhancement owing to the convergence between the incoming northerlies and land breeze. A small increase in early morning rainfall is observed in eastern Java, possibly due to the northerly flow gaining more zonal components on the eastern coast, which then results in relatively weaker convergence than the western coast. The timing of early morning rainfall appears to be slightly different between the three areas. CENS is also found to suppress afternoon rainfall inland because of increasing static stability due to cold air advection from the north. The suppression varies from western to eastern Java, with the largest suppression seen in western Java. Relatively narrower and wider suppression areas are found in central and eastern Java, respectively. These differences are attributed to the topography characteristics of Java.
Mapping the association between productive immunity, emotion regulation, resilience, and autonomy in higher education
Authors: Namaziandost Ehsan , Heydarnejad Tahereh
Published: August 2023

In recent years, more attention has been paid to the psychological and physical well-being of educators. Nevertheless, inadequate attention has been paid to the mediator function of teacher immunity (TI), teacher emotion regulation (TER), teacher resilience (TR), and teacher autonomy (TA) in higher education. This study developed a model to demonstrate the interplay between TI, TER, TR, and TA in an effort to solve the existing research gap. To compile this information, 492 university academics who are currently working in the position of English as a foreign language teacher at various universities throughout Iran have participated in an online survey. They were asked to expressed their opinions with respect to four instruments: the language teacher immunity instrument, the language teacher emotion regulation inventory, the teacher resilience scale, and the teacher autonomy questionnaire. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling indicated that university professors who developed productive immunity and emotion regulation are more resilient and autonomous. In conclusion, the implications as well as the future direction of the study were presented to enthusiastic researchers as well as educators. This can help increase the researchers’ and educators’ understanding of the connection between TI, TER, TR, and TA and how it can produce positive results for students.
Entrapment of an embolic protection device within stent during carotid artery stenting: a case report
Authors: Kim Hyun Jin , Kim Sanghyeon , Kang Myongjin
Published: August 2023

Background

Distal embolic protection devices have been widely used to reduce the incidence of embolic events during carotid artery stenting. Entrapment of an embolic protection device is an extremely rare complication, and most cases are resolved by surgical removal.

Case presentation

A 67-year-old male underwent carotid artery stenting with an embolic protection device. During the procedure, the embolic protection filter became entrapped within the stent. The complication was resolved endovascularly without sequelae.

Conclusion

The most important step in stenting is to be careful until the procedure is completed. However, if complications occur during the operation, in-depth knowledge of the catheters, wires, and devices will help the operator resolve the problem using endovascular techniques.
German nation-wide in-patient treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm—trends between 2005 and 2019 and impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
Authors: Bette Stefanie , Decker Josua A. , Zerwes Sebastian , Gosslau Yvonne , Liebetrau Dominik , Hyhlik-Duerr Alexander , Schwarz Florian , Kroencke Thomas J. , Scheurig-Muenkler Christian
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Aim of this study was to analyze hospitalizations due to ruptured and non-ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAA, nrAAA) in Germany between 2005 and 2021 to determine long-term trends in treatment and the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Materials and Methods

Fully anonymized data were available from the research data center (RDC) of the German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). All German hospitalizations with the ICD-10 code “I71.3, rAAA” and “I71.4, nrAAA” in 2005 and 2010–2021 were analyzed.

Results

We report data of a total of 202,951 hospitalizations. The number of hospitalizations increased from 2005 to 2019 (14,075 to 16,051, + 14.0%). The rate of open repair (OR) constantly decreased, whereas the rate of endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) increased until 2019. During the pandemic, the number of hospitalizations due to nrAAA dropped from 13,887 (86.5%) in 2019 to 11,278 (85.0%) in 2021. The strongest decrease of hospitalizations for AAA was observed during the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2-pandemic in spring 2020 (-25.5%).

Conclusion

Over the past decades, we observed an increasing number of hospitalizations due to AAA accompanied by a shift from OR to EVAR especially for nrAAA. During the lockdown measures due to the SARS-CoV-2-pandemic, a decrease in hospitalizations for nrAAA (but not for rAAA) was shown in 2020 and furthermore in 2021 with no rebound of treatment of nrAAA suggesting an accumulation of untreated AAA with a potentially increased risk of rupture.
Molecular characterization of a novel polerovirus from bitter gourd plants and dynamic subcellular localization of the virus-encoded proteins
Authors: Qiao Rui , Ge Linhao , Pan Mengjiao , Jiang Shoulin , Chen Jieyin , Liang Wenxing , Zhou Xueping , Li Fangfang
Published: August 2023

Viruses within the Polerovirus genus in the family of Solemoviridae have a single-stranded positive-sense RNA genome of about 5.6–6.2 kb in length. In this study, the bitter gourd leaves showing yellowing and crumple symptoms were collected for small RNAs (sRNAs) sequencing. Analysis of the contigs de novo assembled from sRNA-sequencing data, followed by RT-PCR and cloning, determined the complete viral genome to be 5665 nucleotides. This virus isolate contains conserved ORF3a, ORF3, ORF4, and other typical features of poleroviruses. The P0 protein of this virus isolate shares less than 74.80% amino acid sequence identity with any of the previously characterized poleroviruses, indicating that it should be a novel polerovirus. We name this virus as bitter gourd yellowing crumple virus (BYCV). We further revealed the dynamic subcellular localization and protein accumulation of seven proteins encoded by BYCV in Nicotiana benthamiana plants over time, and these viral proteins displayed specific subcellular localization. Expressing the BYCV P0 protein using a potato virus X vector caused severe symptoms in N. benthamiana plants, while P0 exhibited weak RNA silencing suppression activity. These findings provide an example for investigating the dynamic subcellular localizations of viral proteins and demonstrate that P0 is a critical protein potentially playing an important role in virus infection.
Cultural adaptation and validation of the scleroderma health assessment questionnaire into Arabic language
Authors: Alian Samah Mahmoud , Eliwa Enass Abdel-kader , Ahmed Sohair Atia , Ibrahim Manar Ibrahim Abd El-Fattah
Published: August 2023

Background

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune multisystem disorder which affects the patients’ physical and psychological functioning. Scleroderma health assessment questionnaire used to measure physical disability in systemic sclerosis patients. It consists of Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index plus five visual analogue scores related to systemic sclerosis symptoms. There is no Arabic questionnaire specifically measuring physical disability in Arabic systemic sclerosis patients; therefore, this study aimed to translate the scleroderma health assessment questionnaire, culturally adapt it, and test its reliability and validity.

Method

The scleroderma health assessment questionnaire was translated into Arabic according to translation and cross-cultural adaptation guidelines. Convergent validity is measured by correlation of scleroderma health assessment questionnaire scores for 56 patients with short-form health survey scores, while discriminate validity is tested by stratifying clinical manifestations of patients and disease subtypes. Reliability measured by the intraclass correlation coefficient by interviewing patients twice 14 days apart.

Results

There was a strong correlation between the short-form health survey scores: physical component score and Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index and scleroderma health assessment questionnaire global scores (r =  − 0.659**, − 0.727**), while a moderate correlation between the short-form health survey scores physical component score, and scleroderma health assessment questionnaire, visual analogue scores, and all scleroderma health assessment questionnaire visual analogue score subtypes except for Raynaud’s and digital ulcer, was found (r =  − 0.495**, − 0.458*, − 0.495**, − 0.403*). The mental component score of the short-form health survey scores was moderately correlated with Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index and scleroderma health assessment questionnaire global scores (r =  − 0.507**, − 0.51**), while it was mildly correlated with scleroderma health assessment questionnaire visual analogue score and only its subtype overall severity score (r =  − 0.398*, − 0.375*). Also, statistically significant association is between diffuse disease type and digestive visual analogue score (p = 0.001). The Arabic edition of scleroderma health assessment questionnaire has a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.845.

Conclusion

The translated Arabic version is a valid and reliable questionnaire to assess Egyptian systemic sclerosis patients’ functional disability.
Neurodevelopmental disorders including intellectual disability: a clinical toolkit for mental health professionals (part 2)
Authors: Biswas Asit B. , Casey Patricia
Published: August 2023

This editorial introduces the second of two special issues of BJPsych Advances on neurodevelopmental disorders, including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and epilepsy. Topics discussed in the issue include using technological advances such as apps to manage epilepsy in intellectual disability, person-centred support and integrated care, training, and non-restrictive approaches and appropriate medication for managing self-injurious and challenging behaviour.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome associated with hyperemesis gravidarum and fetal death: Case report and literature review
Authors: Marinho Sâmya Pessoa de Amorim , Furtado Raquel Viana , Lemos Paola Lima , Correia Jose Walter , Barbosa Orivaldo Alves
Published: August 2023

We describe a clinical case of a pregnant patient with hyperemesis gravidarum who progressed to abortion, Wernicke's encephalopathy, and Korsakoff's psychosis, all related to thiamine deficiency. The patient presented symptoms of disorientation, nonspecific limb movements, and fever, initially treated with metronidazole and ceftriaxone for suspected infected abortion. Subsequently, the patient was diagnosed with retained and infected abortion, and thiamine replacement therapy was initiated with an intravenous loading dose of 900 mg/day. During hospitalization, the patient presented with tetraparesis, nystagmus, decreased level of consciousness, anterograde and retrograde amnesia, confabulation, and aphasia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed lesions in the pons, typical of Wernicke's encephalopathy. The patient was empirically treated with acyclovir and ampicillin and showed clinical improvement. The text also provides a brief narrative review of the literature on the topic.
Use of ivermectin and factors associated with the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19: a cross-sectional online survey in the province of Chincha, Peru
Authors: Salvador-Carrillo Jose , Campos-Loza Luz , Guillen-Carbajal David , Osada Jorge , Zevallos Alejandra , Torres-Roman J. Smith
Published: August 2023

Background: Peru has reported one of the highest mortality rates by COVID-19 worldwide. The Chincha province has been one of the most affected regions in Peru and the leading promoter of the use of ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19. Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the frequency of use and factors associated with the use of ivermectin for COVID-19 in Chincha.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the second wave of COVID-19 in Peru. For statistical analyses, frequencies and percentages were reported. Prevalence ratios (PR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), and a p-value of 0.05 were used to determine statistical significance. The SPSS version 22 (IBM Corp) program was used for the analyses.

Results: A total of 432 participants were included in the study; of these, 67.6% (n = 292) used ivermectin during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 20.20% (n=59) using ivermectin only for prophylactic purposes, while 41.79% (n=122) used it only as treatment for COVID-19. The consumption of ivermectin was associated with age ≥ 50 years (PR:1.27, 95% CI:1.04–1.54), technical education level (PR:1.16, 95% CI:1.01–1.34), symptoms of COVID-19 with negative/no diagnosis (PR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.07–1.53), positive diagnosis (PR:1.38, 95% CI:1.18–1.61), and positive contact with infected people (PR:1.45, 95% CI:1.06–1.98).

Conclusions: Most people in Chincha used ivermectin during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The main factors associated with the use of ivermectin for the prevention/treatment of COVID-19 were age ≥50 years, having a technical education level, having had symptoms with negative/no diagnosis or positive diagnosis, and contact with people infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Assessing trait emotional intelligence and its relationship with stress and health behaviour in the education sector: An empirical study from Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Pandey Mamta , Sharma Deepti , Kamboj NK
Published: August 2023

Background: Emotional intelligence of teachers can affect their mental and physical health as well their performance in school. Both emotional intelligence and health behavior can have an impact on stress. The majority of Indian studies have examined only one type of teacher, have used indigenous scales which are not internationally valid, and have not studied health behaviour. The role of age and gender on emotional intelligence is also a debatable subject which requires larger studies 

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the trait emotional intelligence, stress and health behaviour of teachers and to determine their inter-relationship and to assess the role of demographic and professional attributes on emotional intelligence. 

Methods: Teachers from different schools, colleges and professional institutes situated in Dehradun and nearby towns in the state of Uttarakhand, India were evaluated by internationally valid tools for the three parameters.  

Results:  Emotional Intelligence of teachers has no relation with age, gender, educational qualification, level of teaching or type of institute. It has a negative correlation with stress and a positive correlation with health behaviour. Further, health behaviour is inversely related to stress. 

Conclusions: Assessment of emotional intelligence and health behaviour of teachers should be a part of their routine evaluation and training so that specific interventions to reduce stress and to improve their overall health and performance can be appropriately planned.