bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partial in vivo reprogramming enables injury-free intestinal regeneration via autonomous
Ptgs1
induction
Authors: Kim Jumee , Kim Somi , Lee Seung-Yeon , Jo Beom-Ki , Oh Ji-Young , Kwon Eun-Ji , Kim Keun-Tae , Adpaikar Anish Ashok , Kim Eun-Jung , Jung Han-Sung , Kim Hwa-Ryeon , Roe Jae-Seok , Hong Chang Pyo , Kim Jong Kyoung , Koo Bon-Kyoung , Cha Hyuk-Jin
Published: November 2023

Tissue regeneration after injury involves the dedifferentiation of somatic cells, a natural adaptive reprogramming that leads to the emergence of injury-responsive cells with fetal-like characteristics. However, there is no direct evidence that adaptive reprogramming involves a shared molecular mechanism with direct cellular reprogramming. Here, we induced dedifferentiation of intestinal epithelial cells using OSKM (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc) in vivo. The OSKM-induced forced dedifferentiation showed similar molecular features of intestinal regeneration, including a transition from homeostatic cell types to injury-responsive–like cell types. These injury-responsive–like cells, sharing gene signatures of revival stem cells and atrophy-induced villus epithelial cells, actively assisted tissue regeneration following damage. In contrast to normal intestinal regeneration involving
Ptgs2
induction, the OSKM promotes autonomous production of prostaglandin E2 via epithelial
Ptgs1
expression. These results indicate prostaglandin synthesis is a common mechanism for intestinal regeneration but involves a different enzyme when partial reprogramming is applied to the intestinal epithelium.
Invasive
Staphylococcus epidermidis
uses a unique processive wall teichoic acid glycosyltransferase to evade immune recognition
Authors: Guo Yinglan , Du Xin , Krusche Janes , Beck Christian , Ali Sara , Walter Axel , Winstel Volker , Mayer Christoph , Codée Jeroen D. C. , Peschel Andreas , Stehle Thilo
Published: November 2023

Staphylococcus epidermidis
expresses glycerol phosphate wall teichoic acid (WTA), but some health care–associated methicillin-resistant
S. epidermidis
(HA-MRSE) clones produce a second, ribitol phosphate (RboP) WTA, resembling that of the aggressive pathogen
Staphylococcus aureus
. RboP-WTA promotes HA-MRSE persistence and virulence in bloodstream infections. We report here that the TarM enzyme of HA-MRSE [TarM(Se)] glycosylates RboP-WTA with glucose, instead of
N
-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) by TarM(Sa) in
S. aureus
. Replacement of GlcNAc with glucose in RboP-WTA impairs HA-MRSE detection by human immunoglobulin G, which may contribute to the immune-evasion capacities of many invasive
S. epidermidis
. Crystal structures of complexes with uridine diphosphate glucose (UDP-glucose), and with UDP and glycosylated poly(RboP), reveal the binding mode and glycosylation mechanism of this enzyme and explain why TarM(Se) and TarM(Sa) link different sugars to poly(RboP). These structural data provide evidence that TarM(Se) is a processive WTA glycosyltransferase. Our study will support the targeted inhibition of TarM enzymes, and the development of RboP-WTA targeting vaccines and phage therapies.
Epidemiological transition: a historical analysis of immigration patterns by country of origin (1861–1986) related to circulatory system diseases and all-cause mortality in twentieth-century Australia
Authors: Kelleher Cecily C , Kelly Gabrielle E , Segurado Ricardo , Briody Jonathan , Sellers Alexander M , McCalman Janet
Published: November 2023

Background and objectives

Circulatory system disease (CSD) patterns vary over time and between countries, related to lifestyle risk factors, associated in turn with socioeconomic circumstances. Current global CSD epidemics in developing economies are similar in scale to those observed previously in the USA and Australasia. Australia exhibits an important macroeconomic phenomenon as a rapidly transitioning economy with high immigration throughout the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. We wished to examine how that historical immigration related to CSD patterns subsequently.

Methods and setting

We provide a novel empirical analysis employing census-derived place of birth by age bracket and sex from 1891 to 1986, in order to map patterns of immigration against CSD mortality rates from 1907 onwards. Age-specific generalised additive models for both CSD mortality in the general population, and all-cause mortality for the foreign-born (FB) only, from 1910 to 1980 were also devised for both males and females.

Results

The percentage of FB fell from 32% in 1891 to 9.8% in 1947. Rates of CSD rose consistently, particularly from the 1940s onwards, peaked in the 1960s, then declined sharply in the 1980s and showed a strong period effect across age groups and genders. The main effects of age and census year and their interaction were highly statistically significant for CSD mortality for males (p<0.001, each term) and for females (p<0.001, each term). The main effect of age and year were statistically significant for all-cause mortality minus net migration rates for the FB females (each p<0.001), and for FB males, age (p<0.001) was significant.

Conclusions

We argue our empirical calculations, supported by historical and socioepidemiological evidence, employing immigration patterns as a proxy for epidemiological transition, affirm the life course hypothesis that both early life circumstances and later life lifestyle drive CSD patterns.
COVID-19 anxiety and related factors amid adjusted epidemic prevention policies: a cross-sectional study on patients with late-life depression in China
Authors: Wu Jianhong , Qiu Linghe , Xiong Wendian , Shen Yuan , Li Jun , Wu Ju , Zhou Qin
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To explore the prevalence and associated factors of COVID-19 anxiety in patients with late-life depression (LLD) during the adjustment of epidemic prevention policies in China.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

The data analysed in this study were collected from seven regions in China between November 2022 and January 2023.

Participants

A total of 1205 patients with LLD (aged 60–78 years) participated in the survey. They completed a social demographic assessment and the Chinese version of the five-point Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS).

Primary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the anxiety level of the participants. Patients were categorised into two groups based on their anxiety levels, one with anxiety and one without, according to CAS scores.

Results

The prevalence of COVID-19 anxiety in depressed older adults was 47.3%. Regression analysis revealed that the average COVID-19 anxiety score was significantly higher among females (AOR: 2.177, 95% CI 1.201 to 3.947), widowed individuals (AOR: 3.015, 95% CI 1.379 to 6.591), patients residing at a distance from healthcare facilities (AOR: 3.765, 95% CI 1.906 to 7.438), and those who frequently experienced worry (AOR: 1.984, 95% CI 1.111 to 3.543). Conversely, the anxiety score was significantly lower among divorced individuals (AOR: 0.491, 95% CI 0.245 to 0.988), those aged 70 years and above (AOR: 0.117, 95% CI 0.064 to 0.213), patients without difficulty obtaining medication (AOR: 0.027, 95% CI 0.007 to 0.097), those living with family members (AOR: 0.080, 95% CI 0.022 to 0.282) or in nursing homes compared with those living alone (AOR: 0.019, 95% CI 0.004 to 0.087).

Conclusion

Women with LLD who are widowed, live far from healthcare facilities, and are prone to excessive worry are more likely to experience anxiety. It is advisable to implement appropriate preventive measures and provide psychosocial support programmes for this vulnerable group during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Early monitoring of intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischaemic stroke using wearable intelligent vital sign devices: protocol for a prospective, multicentre, observational registry cohort study
Authors: Liu Mengrao , Zhao Jie , Li Suai , Han Jinming , Ma Gaoting , Wang Yuxin , Chang Hong
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Continuous monitoring of vital signs during and after ischaemic stroke was recommended by the ‘Guidelines for the Early Management of Patients with Acute Ischaemic Stroke: 2019 Update to the 2018 Guidelines for the Early Management of Acute Ischaemic Stroke’. Vital sign data can be associated with disease conditions and prognosis, while there is limited evidence regarding continuous monitoring of vital signs during and after acute ischaemic stroke. The wearable intelligent vital sign monitoring device is small and lightweight and constantly monitors the health status during daily activities. However, wearable intelligent vital sign monitoring devices have not been widely used in clinical practice so far. Therefore, we will investigate the effectiveness and safety of wearable intelligent vital sign monitoring devices in early in-hospital management and monitoring programmes for patients with acute ischaemic stroke. This paper presents the study protocol.

Methods and design

This study is a prospective, multicentre, observational registry study starting from 20 March 2023 to 20 March 2025. A total of 5740 patients with acute ischaemic stroke from 10 Chinese hospitals are planned to be enrolled. Continuous vital sign data, demographics, medical history, medication history, treatments, laboratory tests, imaging scans and follow-up data will be collected. Follow-up time points were 30 days after discharge, 30 days after intravenous thrombolysis, 3 months after intravenous thrombolysis and 12 months after intravenous thrombolysis (until March 2026). The primary outcome included the evaluation of the modified Rankin Scale at 3 months, as well as the assessment of the rate of symptomatic and asymptomatic intracranial haemorrhage throughout the hospitalisation period.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University ([2022] 203). We plan to disseminate the research findings through publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presentations at international conferences.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300069512.
Work-related stress and associated factors among health professionals working in Ambo town public health facilities, West Shoa Zone, Ethiopia, 2021: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bakare Mulatu , Darega Jiregna , Nugus Gerbaba Guta , Tsegaw Menen
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To assess work-related stress (WRS) and associated factors among health professionals working in Ambo town governmental health facilities, in 2021.

Design

Institution-based analytical cross-sectional study.

Setting

Institution-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Ambo town from 15 July 2021 to 15 August 2021. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 420 participants. Data were collected by using structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to show the magnitude of WRS. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify variables that are significantly associated with WRS at 95% CI and p value <0.05.

Participants

A total of 407 participants were involved in the study making the response rate 96.9%. The age of the respondents ranged from 20 to 52 with the mean age of 29 years (SD=4.8). Among all participants, 261 (64.1%) were male health professionals.

Results

This study found that the overall prevalence of WRS was 52.33% (47.5, 57.2). Being female (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.73, 95% CI 1.06, 2.81), home-work interface (AOR=1.93, 95% CI 1.19, 3.14), job insecurity (tendency not knowing continue current job (AOR=3.22, 95% CI 1.87, 5.56) and major life events (serious injury to close relatives (AOR=3.13, 95% CI 1.68, 5.84), death of close relative (AOR=2.09, 95% CI 1.16, 3.77), being violated by other (AOR=3.10, 95% CI 1.65, 5.83) and anything else seriously upset (AOR=2.63, 95% CI 1.60, 4.32) were factors significantly associated with WRS.

Conclusion

The prevalence of WRS among health professionals working in Ambo town public health facilities was high as compared with other studies. Sex, job insecurity, home-work interface and occurrence of major life events were factors that positively related to WRS and make the work of health professionals stressful. Health facilities, programme managers and policy makers should consider those identified factors while designing public health interventions to reduce WRS among health professionals.
Geospatial analysis of the hospitalisation rate of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Hunan: a cross-sectional Chinese study
Authors: Ge Yan , Wang Shiwen , Shi Qianshan , Shi Jingcheng , Tian Jing
Published: November 2023

Objective

Little is known about spatial variability of hospitalisation rate (HR) of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) worldwide, especially in China.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with RA admitted to hospitals in Hunan Province. Global Moran’sIand local indicators of spatial association were used to explore the geospatial pattern of the HR of patients with RA. Generalised estimating equation analysis and geographically weighted regression were used to identify the potential influencing factors of the HR of patients with RA.

Results

There were a total of 11 599 admissions, and the average HR was 1.57 per 10 000 population in Hunan. We detected different cluster patterns of the HR among patients with RA by local indicators of spatial association. Age, ethnicity, average temperature, average temperature range, average rainfall, regions, gross domestic product per capita, and doctors and hospitals per 10 000 people were risk factors for the HR. However, only average temperature, gross domestic product per capita and hospitals per 10 000 people showed different regression coefficients on the HR in different counties. The increase in hospitals increased the probability of HR from east to west in Hunan with a positive coefficient, while temperature decreases increased the risk of HR from south to north negatively. Similarly, the growth of gross domestic product per capita decreased the probability of HR from southwest to northeast.

Conclusion

A non-random spatial distribution of the HR of patients with RA was demonstrated in Hunan, and average temperature, gross domestic product per capita and hospitals per 10 000 people showed different regression coefficients on the HR in different counties. Our study indicated that spatial and geostatistics may be useful approaches for further study among patients with RA.
Protocol for the PATHOME study: a cohort study on urban societal development and the ecology of enteric disease transmission among infants, domestic animals and the environment
Authors: Baker Kelly K , Simiyu Sheillah , Busienei Phylis , Gutema Fanta D , Okoth Bonphace , Agira John , Amondi Christine S , Ziraba Abdhalah , Kapanka Alexis G , Osinuga Abisola , Ouma Collins , Sewell Daniel K , Gaire Sabin , Tumwebaze Innocent K , Mberu Blessing
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Global morbidity from enteric infections and diarrhoea remains high in children in low-income and middle-income countries, despite significant investment over recent decades in health systems and water and sanitation infrastructure. Other types of societal development may be required to reduce disease burden. Ecological research on the influence of household and neighbourhood societal development on pathogen transmission dynamics between humans, animals and the environment could identify more effective strategies for preventing enteric infections.

Methods and analysis

The ‘enteric pathome’—that is, the communities of viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens transmitted from human and animal faeces through the environment is taxonomically complex in high burden settings. This integrated cohort-exposure assessment study leverages natural socioeconomic spectrums of development to study how pathome complexity is influenced by household and neighbourhood infrastructure and hygiene conditions. We are enrolling under 12-month-old children in low-income and middle-income neighbourhoods of two Kenyan cities (Nairobi and Kisumu) into a ‘short-cohort’ study involving repeat testing of child faeces for enteric pathogens. A mid-study exposure assessment documenting infrastructural, behavioural, spatial, climate, environmental and zoonotic factors characterises pathogen exposure pathways in household and neighbourhood settings. These data will be used to inform and validate statistical and agent-based models (ABM) that identify individual or combined intervention strategies for reducing multipathogen transmission between humans, animals and environment in urban Kenya.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocols for human subjects’ research were approved by Institutional Review Boards at the University of Iowa (ID-202004606) and AMREF Health Africa (ID-ESRC P887/2020), and a national permit was obtained from the Kenya National Commission for Science Technology and Innovation (ID# P/21/8441). The study was registered on Clinicaltrials.gov (Identifier:NCT05322655) and is in pre-results stage. Protocols for research on animals were approved by the University of Iowa Animal Care and Use Committee (ID 0042302).
Association between preterm delivery and subsequent maternal risk of hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus in a UK population-based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Song Ami , Okoth Kelvin , Adderley Nicola J
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Women with a history of preterm delivery (PTD) are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) later in life. However, it is not well established whether PTD is associated with CVD risk factors, hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, in this study, we examined the associations between PTD compared with term delivery and subsequent risk of hypertension and T2DM.

Design

Retrospective matched population-based open cohort study.

Setting

Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD data in the UK.

Participants

A total of 3335 18–49-year-old women with preterm delivery were matched by age and region to 12 634 without a record of preterm delivery.

Primary outcome measures

Outcomes of interest were newly diagnosed hypertension or T2DM at least 6 months after delivery. During the study period (January 2000–December 2019), hypertension or T2DM events in the medical records of women with (exposed) and without (unexposed) preterm delivery were compared. HR and 95% CI were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

Over a median follow-up period of 5.11 (IQR 2.15–9.56) years, the HRs for hypertension in women who delivered preterm compared with women who delivered at term were 1.42 (95%CI 1.09 to 1.80) and 1.18 (95%CI 0.90 to 1.56) in the unadjusted and adjusted models, respectively. For T2DM, over a median follow-up period of 5.17 (IQR 2.18–9.67) years, the HRs in women who delivered preterm compared with those who delivered at term were 1.67 (95%CI 1.12 to 2.48) and 1.10 (95%CI 0.72 to 1.68) in the unadjusted and adjusted models, respectively.

Conclusion

We found no independent effect of preterm delivery on risk of hypertension or type 2 diabetes in this study. While significant associations were observed in unadjusted analyses, associations were lost after adjustment and may be attributable to other reproductive complications. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Prognostic value of growth differentiation factor-15 3 months after an acute chest pain admission
Authors: Myrmel Gard Mikael Sæle , Steiro Ole-Thomas , Tjora Hilde Lunde , Langørgen Jørund , Bjørneklett Rune Oskar , Skadberg Øyvind , Bonarjee Vernon Vijay Singha , Mjelva Øistein Rønneberg , Pedersen Eva Ringdal , Vikenes Kjell , Omland Torbjorn , Aakre Kristin Moberg
Published: November 2023

Objective

Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) is a predictor of death and cardiovascular events when measured during index hospitalisation in patients with acute chest pain. This study investigated the prognostic utility of measuring GDF-15 3 months after an admission with suspected non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS).

Methods

GDF-15 was measured at baseline and 3 months after admission in 758 patients admitted with suspected NSTE-ACS. Patients were followed for a median of 1540 (IQR: 1087–1776) days after the 3-month visit. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality, while the secondary composite endpoint included all-cause mortality, incident myocardial infarction and heart failure hospitalisation during follow-up.

Results

In patients with GDF-15 ≥1200 pg/mL (n=248), 18% died and 25% met the composite endpoint. In patients with GDF-15 <1200 pg/mL (n=510), 1.7% died and 4% met the composite endpoint. The GDF-15 concentration (log2 transformed) at 3 months was significantly associated with all-cause mortality (adjusted HR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.4 to 3.3, p<0.001) and the composite endpoint (adjusted HR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.4 to 2.7, p<0.001), independently of traditional risk factors and baseline troponin T. A 10% change in GDF-15 concentration from baseline to the 3-month visit was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.13, p=0.031), adjusting for baseline GDF-15 concentrations.

Conclusions

High GDF-15 concentrations 3 months after admission for suspected NSTE-ACS are associated with long-term mortality and cardiovascular events, independent of traditional risk factors and troponin T. A change in GDF-15 concentration can provide prognostic information.
Updated population-level estimates of child restraint practices among children aged 0–12 years in Australia, 10 years after introduction of age-appropriate restraint use legislation
Authors: Brown Julie , Albanese Bianca , Ho Catherine , Elkington Jane , Koppel Sjaan , Charlton Judith L , Olivier Jake , Keay Lisa , Bilston Lynne E
Published: November 2023

Objective

Optimal child passenger protection requires use of a restraint designed for the age/size of the child (appropriate use) that is used in the way the manufacturer intended (correct use).This study aimed to determine child restraint practices approximately 10 years after introduction of legislation requiring correct use of age-appropriate restraints for all children aged up to 7 years.

Methods

A stratified cluster sample was constructed to collect observational data from children aged 0–12 years across the Greater Sydney region of New South Wales (NSW). Methods replicated those used in a similar 2008 study. Population weighted estimates for restraint practices were generated, and logistic regression used to examine associations between restraint type, and child age with correct use accounting for the complex sample.

Results

Almost all children were appropriately restrained (99.3%, 95% CI 98.4% to 100%). However, less than half were correctly restrained (no error=27.3%, 95% CI 10.8% to 43.8%, no serious error=43.8%, 95% CI 35.0% to 52.7%). For any error, the odds of error decreased by 39% per year of age (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.81) and for serious error by 25% per year (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.93).

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate high levels of appropriate restraint use among children across metropolitan Sydney approximately 10 years after introduction of legislation requiring age-appropriate restraint use until age 7, however, errors in the way restraints remain common.

Implications for public health

Given the negative impact incorrect use has on crash protection, continuing high rates of incorrect use may reduce effectiveness of legislative change on injury reduction.
The ‘plunger’ technique for direct aspiration thrombectomy
Authors: Froehler Michael T
Published: November 2023

Direct aspiration thrombectomy is often employed for endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke because it rapidly achieves recanalization. Ideally, the clot is completely or nearly completely ingested into the aspiration catheter. Static aspiration is typically used, either with an electrical pump1 or with a handheld syringe, which applies a fixed vacuum. However, cyclic or oscillating aspiration may lead to additional deformation of the clot, which allows for additional ingestion into the catheter.2–4 This video describes the use of the ‘plunger’ technique, wherein a 60 mL locking syringe is used to apply on/off vacuum force to the occlusive clot. This technique provides a simple, manual approach to cyclic aspiration for stroke thrombectomy (video 1).

Video 1

­
Grain sorghum and late-emerging Palmer amaranth response to sorghum planting density and nitrogen rate in an irrigated environment
Authors: Cuvaca Ivan B. , Borgato Ednaldo A. , Currie Randall , Foster Anserd , Roozeboom Kraig , Fry Jack , Geier Pat , Jugulam Mithila
Published: November 2023

Palmer amaranth germination and emergence occur throughout the growing season; however, little is known about the impact of late-emerging Palmer amaranth on sorghum, a major crop in Kansas. Field trials were conducted in 2016 and 2017 to measure grain sorghum and late-emerging Palmer amaranth’s response to sorghum planting density and nitrogen rate. Trials were comprised of weed-free and weedy sorghum as main plots, three sorghum planting densities as sub-plots, and three nitrogen rates as sub-sub-plot treatments laid in a randomized complete block design with a split–split-plot arrangement. Weedy sorghum was infested with late-emerging Palmer amaranth only. Weed-free sorghum outyielded its weedy counterpart by 42.2%. At the high sorghum planting density (296 400 plants ha−1), applying 112 kg N ha−1 did not improve grain yield or decrease Palmer amaranth’s number, height, and biomass, but increased sorghum head number and height. Altogether, our findings suggest that increasing sorghum planting density and nitrogen rate in an irrigated environment did not facilitate Palmer amaranth control. Strategies for long-season Palmer amaranth control are needed to protect sorghum yield from weed competition.
Electromagnetic properties of the $$\Sigma _{c}(2800)^+$$ and $$\Lambda _c(2940)^+$$ states via light-cone QCD
Authors: Ozdem Ulaş
Published: November 2023

The $$\Sigma _{c}(2800)^+$$

Σ
c

(
2800
)

+

and $$\Lambda _c(2940)^+$$

Λ
c

(
2940
)

+

states are among the most interesting and intriguing particles whose internal structures have not yet been elucidated. Inspired by this, the magnetic dipole moments of the $$\Sigma _{c}(2800)^+$$

Σ
c

(
2800
)

+

and $$\Lambda _c(2940)^+$$

Λ
c

(
2940
)

+

states with quantum numbers $$J^P = \frac{1}{2}^-$$

J
P

=

1
2

-

and $$J^P = \frac{3}{2}^-$$

J
P

=

3
2

-

, respectively, are analyzed in the framework of QCD light-cone sum rules, assuming that they have a molecule composed of a nucleon and a $$D^{(*)}$$

D

(

∗
)

meson. The magnetic dipole moments are obtained as $$\mu _{\Sigma _c^{+}}=0.26 \pm 0.05~\mu _N$$

μ

Σ
c
+

=
0.26
±
0.05

μ
N

and $$\mu _{\Lambda _c^{+}}=-0.31 \pm 0.04~\mu _N$$

μ

Λ
c
+

=
-
0.31
±
0.04

μ
N

. The magnetic dipole moment is the leading-order response of a bound system to a weak external magnetic field. It therefore offers an excellent platform to explore the inner organization of hadrons governed by the quark-gluon dynamics of QCD. Comparison of the findings of this analysis with future experimental results on the magnetic dipole moments of the $$\Sigma _{c}(2800)^+$$

Σ
c

(
2800
)

+

and $$\Lambda _c(2940)^+$$

Λ
c

(
2940
)

+

states may shed light on the nature and internal organization of these states. The electric quadrupole and magnetic octupole moments of the $$\Lambda _c(2940)^+$$

Λ
c

(
2940
)

+

states have also been calculated, and these values are determined to be $${\mathcal {Q}}_{\Lambda _c^+} = (0.65 \pm 0.25) \times 10^{-3}$$

Q

Λ
c
+

=

(
0.65
±
0.25
)

×

10

-
3

 fm$$^2$$

2

and $$ {\mathcal {O}}_{\Lambda _c^+} = -(0.38 \pm 0.10) \times 10^{-3}$$

O

Λ
c
+

=
-

(
0.38
±
0.10
)

×

10

-
3

 fm$$^3$$

3

, respectively. The values of the electric quadrupole and magnetic octupole moments show a non-spherical charge distribution. We hope that our estimates of the electromagnetic properties of the $$\Sigma _{c}(2800)^+$$

Σ
c

(
2800
)

+

and $$\Lambda _c(2940)^+$$

Λ
c

(
2940
)

+

states, together with the results of other theoretical studies of the spectroscopic parameters of these states, will be useful for their search in future experiments and will help us to define the exact internal structures of these states.
Dynamics of Generalized Tangent-Like Maps
Authors: Domínguez Patricia , Sienra Guillermo
Published: November 2023

For the class [Formula: see text] of meromorphic functions outside a compact countable set of essential singularities, we study the dynamics of some functions in [Formula: see text] for which the unit disc and its complement are invariant. These functions are products and compositions of the function [Formula: see text] with Blaschke products, that include the family [Formula: see text], which are the main topic of the article. Slices of the space of parameters of [Formula: see text] are given with a discussion of their main features. We construct a Poincaré extension of [Formula: see text] to the hyperbolic three-dimensional space and to the 3-sphere. Also we study their dynamics.
Bogdanov–Takens Bifurcation of Codimension 3 in the Gierer–Meinhardt Model
Authors: Wu Ranchao , Yang Lingling
Published: November 2023

Bifurcation of the local Gierer–Meinhardt model is analyzed in this paper. It is found that the degenerate Bogdanov–Takens bifurcation of codimension 3 exists in the model, except for the saddle-node bifurcation and the Hopf bifurcation. That was not reported in the literature about this model. The existence of equilibria, their stability, the bifurcation and the induced complicated and interesting dynamics are explored in detail, by using stability analysis, normal form method and bifurcation theory. Numerical results are also presented to validate the theoretical results.
Limit Cycles of Some Families of Discontinuous Piecewise Differential Systems Separated by a Straight Line
Authors: Baymout Louiza , Benterki Rebiha , Llibre Jaume
Published: November 2023

In the past years the study of continuous or discontinuous piecewise differential systems has attracted significant interest, due to their wide use to model many natural phenomena. Important questions such as finding an upper bound for the number of limit cycles of such systems and their possible configurations have been considered by many authors. These problems are known as the extension of the second part of the 16th Hilbert’s problem to the piecewise differential systems. In this paper, we solve an extension of the second part of the 16th Hilbert’s problem for two families of discontinuous piecewise differential systems separated by the straight line [Formula: see text]. The first family is formed by a linear center and a cubic Hamiltonian isochronous center, and the second family is formed by cubic Hamiltonian isochronous centers. As a result we prove that the first family can exhibit [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] limit cycle, for the second one there are either three limit cycles or no limit cycles. We also show that there are examples of all types of these systems with one or three limit cycles.
Stability and Bifurcation Analyses of the FitzHugh–Rinzel Model with Time Delay in a Random Network
Authors: Yi Dan , Zheng Yanhong , Zeng Qiaoyun
Published: November 2023

Due to the finite speed of signal transmission, time delay is a common phenomenon in neuronal systems. The spatiotemporal dynamics of the FitzHugh–Rinzel model with time delay and diffusion in a random network are investigated in this paper. The conditions for Turing instability and Hopf bifurcation are obtained by linear stability analysis. It is found that the stability of the system changes with the time delay. Then the critical time delay for the state transition of the system is derived. Moreover, it is shown that Turing pattern is related to the network diffusion and connection probability. The increase of the diffusion coefficient will change the spatiotemporal pattern of the system. In addition, the system will achieve firing synchronization as the connection probability increases. Finally, numerical simulation verifies the theoretical results.
Bifurcation and Stability of a Mathematical Model for Tumor Growth with Oncolytic Virotherapy
Authors: Chen Hong-Bing
Published: November 2023

Replication-competent viruses have been used as an alternative therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. In this paper, a T-OV-taxis mathematical model for tumor growth with oncolytic virotherapy is established. First, the stability of [Formula: see text] is studied in the ODE system and in the reaction–diffusion system of the model. It is found that the stability of [Formula: see text] will not be changed by diffusion alone. Next, the T-OV-taxis rate [Formula: see text] is selected as a bifurcation factor, and a threshold value [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] is found, such that positive constant steady-state [Formula: see text] becomes unstable when [Formula: see text]. Hence, the taxis-driven Turing instability occurs. Furthermore, the existence, stability, turning direction of steady-state bifurcation are discussed. And, the local steady-state bifurcation is extended to a global one, where the theory used is the Crandall–Rabinowitz bifurcation theorem. Finally, it is concluded that T-OV-taxis rate [Formula: see text] plays an important role in this mathematical model.
Nursing Session
Authors: BRADBURY Linda
Published: November 2023

The management of pain in inflammatory arthritis can be complicated. Its important to differentiate between different types of pain, explain these to the patient and treat accordingly. Pain can be due to inflammatory disease eg rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis; tissue damage eg osteoarthritis; nerve pain eg shingles, carpal tunnel; or due to increased sensitivity of the pain system eg fibromyalgia. Patients may have a combination of two or more of these which can be challenging not only for the patient but also the clinician. Understanding the signs and symptoms of each is vital for the rheumatology nurse to be able to fully assess and evaluate care. Individualised care is important as everyone’s perception of pain is different. Factors such as sleep, physical health, diet and mental health can also play a role and so a holistic approach is essential.

Management of the rheumatology patient involves a combination of pharmacological therapies but, probably more importantly from the rheumatology nurse point of view, non-pharmacological approaches. Of course, the diagnosis will determine the pharmacological treatments but can more be done?

With a focus on pain, this presentation will follow a patient who is attending the rheumatology clinic with a diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis but their journey is not as simple as it sounds.
Lunch Symposium
Authors: STEVENS Wendy
Published: November 2023

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), defined as the presence of artery pulmonary artery pressure > 20 mmHg, pulmonary artery wedge pressure [Formula: see text]15 mmHg, and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) > 2Wood units based on expert consensus, is characterized by a progressive and sustained increase in PVR, which may lead to right heart failure and death. PAH is a well-known complication of connective tissue diseases (CTDs), such as systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, and other autoimmune conditions. In the past few years, tremendous progress in the understanding of PAH pathogenesis has been made, with various novel diagnostic and screening methods for the early detection of CTD-PAH proposed worldwide.

This symposium would highlight the most updated 2022 ESC/ERS guideline in the disease management of PAH, including latest haemodynmaic definitions of PAH, new risk stratification approach at reassessment and updated PAH treatment recommendations. In addition to the guideline update, important discussion would cover the important diagnostic, and screening algorithm for early detection of CTD-PAH and clinical experiences in managing difficult CTD-PAH cases.
Symposium 3
Authors: KUWANA Masataka
Published: November 2023

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) remains a refractory condition with poor functional and survival outcomes. This is attributable primarily to the extremely diverse clinical course and distribution of organ involvement. The pathogenesis of SSc includes microangiopathy and chronic inflammation, leading to accumulation of extracellular matrix and resultant irreversible fibrosis resulting in distortion of the normal tissue architecture. This pathogenic process is analogous to that observed in rheumatoid arthritis, in which persistent synovitis leads to articular cartilage and bone destruction, resulting in functional impairment due to joint deformity. Therefore, successful experiences in developing treatment strategies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can also be applied to SSc. These include early diagnosis and intervention, treat-to-target strategy aiming at achievement of clinical remission or low-disease activity, prediction of disease progression and prognosis, and disease modification by pharmacologic treatment. Immunosuppressants targeting lymphocytes, including mycophenolate mofetil and cyclophosphamide, have been the mainstream of the treatment of SSc, based on treatment evidence showing prevention of decline in forced vital capacity, promotion of improving modified Rodnan skin thickness score, and improved patient-reported outcomes. However, survival benefit has not been shown in long-term follow-up of patients treated with non-specific immunosuppressants. Recently, drugs targeting a variety of molecules involved in the pathologic process of SSc, such as tocilizumab and nintedanib, have been shown to prevent progression of certain organ involvement in clinical trials, resulting in expanding treatment options. Implementation of those potential disease-modifying therapies in management of SSc requires adequate assessment of disease activity and treatment goal setting. In addition, clinical characteristics that predict the progression of organ manifestations, such as skin sclerosis and interstitial lung disease, need to be identified as prognosis factors. Like other rheumatic diseases, early interventions have been shown to be more effective than delayed intervention. This lecture features current standings and challenges of treat-to-target strategy in SSc patients.
Symposium 4
Authors: SMITH Vanessa
Published: November 2023

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a fibrotic disease of the lung parenchyma. It can occur in different connective tissue diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Smoking, male gender and longstanding RA are possible risk factors for developing ILD 1 . Being a common extra-articular manifestation of RA, it can contribute to decreased quality of life, chronic disability, high utilization of healthcare resources, and may also lead to substantial morbidity and mortality for affected patients1. Hence, early identification and management is of paramount importance to improve patient outcomes.

Clinical presentation, chest X-ray, pulmonary function testing and high-resolution computed tomography are common tools for investigation and they also allows assessment of subtype and disease extent 2 . The histopathologic and radiographic features of RA-ILD are heterogeneous. The most frequent patterns of RA-ILD are usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) and nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP). Distinguishing the patterns is useful in predicting prognosis and would also affect subsequent management approach 2 .

Traditionally treatment initiated for RA-ILD was generally empirical. Corticosteroids were often used as first-line agents and immunosuppressants maybe added2. However, these treatments are not specific and mainly target inflammation instead of fibrosis. With the advance in medicine, antifibrotic is now indicated for treating fibrosing ILD with progressive phenotype. FVC decline can be slowed in patients with connective tissue disease associated progressive ILD 3 .

In this lecture, Prof. Vanessa Smith will share the current knowledge and evidence in RA-ILD. The approach on identifying and screening ILD in RA patients would be presented. The management strategy and options would also be reviewed.
Symposium 4
Authors: CHAN Shirley
Published: November 2023

Extra-articular manifestations are common in Rheumatoid-arthritis (RA), involving the skin, eyes, heart, and lung, causing significant comorbidities. In particular, clinically significant rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD) has a prevalence of about 10%-19% among RA patients. However, the exact prevalence of ILD in RA patients is not well known and there is also a lack of local data in Hong Kong.

Early screening and identification of ILD in RA patients is important for improving patient outcomes. Currently, there is no established algorithm for screening in asymptomatic patients with RA. High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is a standard assessment in ILD diagnosis but is associated with high cost. Pulmonary function test and lung ultrasound might also be useful in identifying ILD. Besides, multiple clinical risk factors and novel biomarkers have been explored for early identification of RA-ILD.

To evaluate the usefulness of these predictors and to evaluate the burden of interstitial lung disease (ILD) among patients with RA, a local study (RAISE, Rheumatoid Arthritis-associated ILD: Screening and Evaluation in high-risk patients) was designed in Hong Kong to assess the prevalence of RA-ILD among RA patients with high risk, and to identify potential clinical and biochemical markers associated with the condition.

In this session, Dr. Shirley Chan will share the protocol of the RAISE study and the screening approach. The interim results will also be analyzed and presented.
Symposium 10: Spotting EGPA from Asthma Populations and How Co-Care Works Between Rheumatology and Respiratory Physicians: A Case Sharing
Authors: KUO Ping-Hung
Published: November 2023

Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA), formerly known as Churg-Strauss syndrome, is a rare systemic vasculitis characterized by asthma, eosinophilia, and vasculitic organ involvement. This rare disease poses diagnostic challenges within the domain of severe asthma. Recognizing EGPA within the asthmatic cohort is therefore crucial for appropriate management and improved patient outcomes. Moreover, effective collaboration between rheumatologists and respiratory physicians is vital for the comprehensive care of EGPA patients. This scientific lecture aims to discuss the identification of EGPA in individuals with asthma and highlight the importance of co-care between rheumatology and respiratory medicine.

This lecture will begin by providing an overview of EGPA, its clinical manifestations, and the challenges associated with differentiating it from severe asthma. The crucial identification of distinctive clinical features, such as refractory asthma, peripheral eosinophilia, and systemic symptoms, which serve as beacons for the presence of EGPA, will be discussed. Diagnostic tools encompassing imaging, laboratory tests, and biopsy techniques are explored, focusing on their utility in distinguishing EGPA from asthma.

Concomitantly, the lecture will then shift its focus to the collaborative efforts required from rheumatologists and respiratory physicians in managing EGPA patients. The complementary roles of both specialties in achieving optimal patient outcomes will be discussed. Rheumatologists play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of systemic vasculitis, including EGPA, while respiratory physicians provide expertise in managing asthma and respiratory complications. The case will highlight the importance of open communication, shared decision-making, and coordinated treatment plans to ensure comprehensive care for EGPA patients, addressing both their rheumatologic and respiratory needs.

Real-life case will be shared to illustrate successful co-management models between rheumatology and respiratory medicine. These examples will underscore the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach, including improved disease management, reduced treatment-related complications, and enhanced patient satisfaction.

In conclusion, identifying EGPA within the asthma population is crucial for appropriate management, and effective collaboration between rheumatology and respiratory physicians is essential for comprehensive care. This scientific lecture aims to provide insights into spotting EGPA among asthma patients and emphasize the significance of co-care between these specialties, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Abstract 9 — Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Phosphatase Expression in SLE when Compared with Other Connective Tissue Disorders: A Bioinformatic Analysis
Authors: Tomo Sojit , Gopalakrishnan Maya , Banerjee Mithu
Published: November 2023

Background

Sphingolipids are major components of the plasma membrane which are acted upon by various enzymes to generate signaling molecules. The metabolites of the sphingolipid pathway have been identified to play a major regulatory role in various cellular processes. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is one of the major intermediary molecules of the sphingolipid pathway. Sphingosine-1-phosphate, formed in the cell can be dephosphorylated by S1P-phosphatase (SGPP1 and SGPP2), which is a reversible process. Dysregulation of the sphingolipid pathway has been associated with multiple connective tissue disorders. The current study aimed to assess and compare differential gene expressions of SGPP1 and SGPP2 in patients with SLE when compared with other connective tissue diseases.

Methods

The current bioinformatics analytic study was conducted using publicly available datasets. Existing datasets from the ADEx: Autoimmune Diseases Explorer Database pertaining to connective tissue disorders were used to explore differentially expressed genes involved in sphingolipid pathways in patients with SLE when compared with other CTD. The differential expression of SGPP1 and SGPP2 genes of the sphingolipid pathway will be identified from datasets.

Results

The differential expression of SGPP1 and SGPP2 has been identified from the ADEx database. A total of 51 datasets, comprising 17 datasets of RA, 9 datasets of Sjogren Syndrome, 20 datasets of SLE, and 5 datasets of Systemic Sclerosis were used for analysis. An FDR filter of 0.01 was used during the analysis. On analysis, we observed an increased expression of SGPP1 in 2 RA datasets, 1 Sjogren Syndrome, and an increased expression of SGPP2 in 1 Systemic sclerosis dataset. However, in SLE datasets, the SGPP1 and SGPP2 were observed to have decreased expression.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates a unique trend of SGPP1 and SGPP1 downregulated in SLE patients when compared with other CTD. This provides additional insight into the widely explored Sphingosine-1-phosphate-related dysregulation in SLE and will enable in devising of novel targeted therapy.