bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Favorable Attitudes Toward Research in Nursing Students During Internship: A Cross-Sectional Study in Peru
Authors: Moya-Salazar Jeel , Ccorahua Marleny , Goicochea-Palomino Eliane A. , Moya-Espinoza Jeel G. , Contreras-Pulache Hans
Published: October 2023

Introduction and objective

Research attitudes among nursing students are essential to improve the quality of care and promote evidence-based practice. The objective of this study was to determine the attitude towards research of nursing students during their undergraduate internship and explore the demographic and study-related factors that may affect these attitudes.

Materials and Methods

In this cross-sectional retrospective study, 100 nursing interns who are >18 years old, currently studying and working, and have a prior academic background were included. To assess the attitudes toward research, the 43-item Likert-like Scale of Attitudes Towards Research questionnaire was used, which has been previously validated in the Peruvian population and includes three distinct dimensions: affective, cognitive, and behavioral.

Results

The mean age was 28.7 ± 5.2 years and 88% were women. Fifty percent had favorable attitudes toward research. The favorable attitude according to the affective, cognitive, and behavioral dimensions was 28%, 11%, and 45%, respectively. Although the youngest age group (20 to 30 years old) had the highest frequency of favorable attitudes (36%), no significant differences were found when compared to other age groups ( p = .082).

Conclusions

Nursing students presented favorable attitudes toward research during their undergraduate internship, especially among young students. However, more research is needed to understand how these attitudes are shaped and consolidated during the research process and how they can be further improved to promote evidence-based practice in nursing.
Understanding the spatial statistical properties of a real estate listings point pattern in San José, Costa Rica
Authors: Pérez-Molina Eduardo
Published: October 2023

One should expect real estate sales, and properties listed as for sale, to be concentrated on market hotspots. Using data of real estate listings from San José, Costa Rica, this expected clustering is examined using point pattern processes of detached housing, apartments, and vacant lots. Non-stationary G and J functions describe the patterns and their interactions. Potential determinants of the point pattern were selected based on previous studies and theory. Their effect on the point pattern was estimated using an inhomogeneous Poisson model, with its intensity a lognormal function of the determinants. Results show detached houses, apartments, and lots are all clustered point patterns. The cross density (joint G function) of houses with apartments and with lots exhibits clustering, suggesting the patterns are related; however, the cross density of apartments and lots is no different from a Poisson distribution (they are not related). The inhomogeneous Poisson model with Euclidean distance to the central business district (CBD), nearest municipal center, and nearest main road, as well as elevation and slope, proved better than homogeneous Poisson models in explaining the point patterns of houses, apartments, and lots.
Full-Thickness Macular Hole Caused by Acute Subretinal Hemorrhage From Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Gupta Mrinali , Lean John
Published: October 2023

Purpose: To present a case of full-thickness macular hole (MH) that developed in association with acute subretinal hemorrhage from wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: A retrospective observational review of a single case was performed. Results: An 84-year-old man with wet AMD presented with central vision loss and floaters and was noted to have a subretinal hemorrhage and an associated MH, which subsequently progressed to MH-associated macular detachment. The patient had a pars plana vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling, gas tamponade, and prone positioning, resulting in closure of the MH and improvement in visual acuity. Conclusions: A full-thickness MH developed as a result of foveal dehiscence from an acute hemorrhage caused by choroidal neovascularization in wet AMD.
A BEAT-PCD consensus statement: a core outcome set for pulmonary disease interventions in primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Kos Renate , Goutaki Myrofora , Kobbernagel Helene E. , Rubbo Bruna , Shoemark Amelia , Aliberti Stefano , Altenburg Josje , Anagnostopoulou Pinelopi , Athanazio Rodrigo A. , Beydon Nicole , Dell Sharon D. , Emiralioglu Nagehan , Ferkol Thomas W. , Loebinger Michael R. , Lorent Natalie , Maître Bernard , Marthin June , Morgan Lucy C. , Nielsen Kim G. , Ringshausen Felix C. , Shteinberg Michal , Tiddens Harm A.W.M. , Maitland-Van der Zee Anke H. , Chalmers James D. , Lucas Jane S.A. , Haarman Eric G.
Published: October 2023

Background

Consistent use of reliable and clinically appropriate outcome measures is a priority for clinical trials, with clear definitions to allow comparability. We aimed to develop a core outcome set (COS) for pulmonary disease interventions in primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD).

Methods

A multidisciplinary international PCD expert panel was set up. A list of outcomes was created based on published literature. Using a modified three-round e-Delphi technique, the panel was asked to decide on relevant end-points related to pulmonary disease interventions and how they should be reported. First, inclusion of an outcome in the COS was determined. Second, the minimum information that should be reported per outcome. The third round finalised statements. Consensus was defined as ≥80% agreement among experts.

Results

During the first round, experts reached consensus on four out of 24 outcomes to be included in the COS. Five additional outcomes were discussed in subsequent rounds for their use in different subsettings. Consensus on standardised methods of reporting for the COS was reached. Spirometry, health-related quality-of-life scores, microbiology and exacerbations were included in the final COS.

Conclusion

This expert consensus resulted in a COS for clinical trials on pulmonary health among people with PCD.
Utilizing two-dimensional monolayer and three-dimensional spheroids to enhance radiotherapeutic potential by combining gold nanoparticles and docetaxel
Authors: Bromma Kyle , Beckham Wayne , Chithrani Devika B.
Published: October 2023

Background

Much in vitro research on the applicability of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) in cancer treatment has been focused on two-dimensional (2D) monolayer models. To improve this, we explored the effect of the combination of GNPs and docetaxel (DTX) with radiotherapy (RT) in a more complex three-dimensional (3D) spheroid that can better mimic a real tumour microenvironment.

Methods

Two cell lines, prostate cancer LNCaP and cervical cancer HeLa, were grown in monolayer and spheroids. Cells were dosed with GNPs at a concentration of 10 $$\mathrm{\mu g}/\mathrm{mL}$$

μ
g

/
mL

and with DTX at a dose that inhibited growth-rate by 50%. Samples were irradiated 24 h after drug dosing with 2 Gy, 5 Gy, or 10 Gy using a 6 MV beam. Monolayer cells had the DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) probed 24 h post-radiation, and cell proliferation observed over 7 days. Spheroid proliferation was monitored over 14 days along with spheroid volume measurements.

Results

In DTX and GNP-treated monolayer samples, there is decreased survival after irradiation with 5 and 10 Gy of 16–24% and an increase in DSBs of 91.6–109.9%, compared to DTX. In spheroids, GNPs decreased the surviving cells by 10.54–15.61% compared to control, while GNPs and DTX decreased survival by 20.9–31.04%. There is reduced spheroid volume 14 days after treatment with the triple combination.

Conclusions

Combining GNPs and DTX leads to a synergistic radiosensitization effect in spheroids, which can better mimic the tumour microenvironment. Testing treatment modalities with spheroids and RT may allow a quicker translation to the clinic.
Differences in the healthcare needs of older adults attending primary health centers in urban and rural areas of Taiwan
Authors: Shih Chen-I , Yang Hui-Fei , Chia Shu-Li , Lin Tang-Kuei , Fan Sheng-Yu
Published: October 2023

Purpose

As the older adult population in Taiwan continues to increase, primary health centers (PHCs) play a crucial role in geriatric care. This study explored the differences in the PHC experiences and usage needs of older adults in urban versus rural areas.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted. Twenty-one older adults were recruited from PHCs in northern, central, southern, and eastern Taiwan. Semistructured interviews were used to collect data, and the interview guidelines included their reasons for visiting PHCs, the health-care services they received, their evaluation of the services, and the advantages and disadvantages of these centers. The data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Results

The PHC usage needs of older adults in urban areas differ from those of older adults in rural areas in the following 3 aspects: (1) Medical services: older adults in rural areas demand clinics specializing in various medical domains, mobile and home medical care, and case management, whereas those in urban areas demand mobile health examinations. (2) Environment and transportation: older adults in rural areas demand diverse medical equipment, shuttle services, and accessible facilities, whereas those in urban areas demand recreational facilities. (3) Active aging: older adults in rural areas demand health education courses, and those in urban areas demand diverse senior citizen courses as well as opportunities to volunteer and build interpersonal relationships.

Conclusion

The older adults in urban and rural areas had different PHC usage needs. The older adults in rural areas generally focused on medical care and transportation services in PHCs, whereas those in urban areas generally focused on health promotion as a means of social participation and active aging.
A score to predict Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in older patients with community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Wijit Kingkarn , Sonthisombat Paveena , Diewsurin Jaruwan
Published: October 2023

Background

In Thailand, the incidence of community-acquired pseudomonal pneumonia among 60- to 65-year-olds ranges from 10.90% to 15.51%, with a mortality rate of up to 19.00%. Antipseudomonal agents should be selected as an empirical treatment for elderly patients at high risk for developing this infection. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors and develop a risk predictor for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in older adults with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Methods

A retrospective data collection from an electronic database involved the elderly hospitalized patients with P. aeruginosa- and non-P. aeruginosa-causing CAP, admitted between January 1, 2016, and June 30, 2021. Risk factors for P. aeruginosa infection were analysed using logistic regression, and the instrument was developed by scoring each risk factor based on the beta coefficient and evaluating discrimination and calibration using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AuROC) and observed versus predicted probability (E/O) ratio.

Results

The inclusion criteria were met by 81 and 104 elderly patients diagnosed with CAP caused by P. aeruginosa and non-P. aeruginosa, respectively. Nasogastric (NG) tube feeding (odd ratios; OR = 40.68), bronchiectasis (B) (OR = 4.13), immunocompromised condition (I) (OR = 3.76), and other chronic respiratory illnesses (r) such as atelectasis, pulmonary fibrosis, and lung bleb (OR = 2.61) were the specific risk factors for infection with P. aeruginosa. The “60-B-r-I-NG” risk score was named after the 4 abbreviated risk variables and found to have good predicative capability (AuROC = 0.77) and accuracy comparable to or near true P. aeruginosa infection (E/O = 1). People who scored at least two should receive empirically antipseudomonal medication.

Conclusions

NG tube feeding before admission, bronchiectasis, immunocompromisation, atelectasis, pulmonary fibrosis and lung bleb were risk factors for pseudomonal CAP in the elderly. The 60-B-r-I-NG was developed for predicting P. aeruginosa infection with a high degree of accuracy, equal to or comparable to the existing P. aeruginosa infection. Antipseudomonal agents may be started in patients who are at least 60 years old and have a score of at least 2 in order to lower mortality and promote the appropriate use of these medications.
Overexpression of SH2D1A promotes cancer progression and is associated with immune cell infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma via bioinformatics and in vitro study
Authors: Xiang Qian-Ming , Jiang Ni , Liu Yue-Feng , Wang Yuan-Biao , Mu De-An , Liu Rong , Sun Lu-Yun , Zhang Wei , Guo Qiang , Li Kai
Published: October 2023

Background

SH2 domain containing 1A (SH2D1A) expression has been linked to cancer progression. However, the functions of SH2D1A in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have not been reported.

Methods

The effects of SH2D1A on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells and the related pathways were re-explored in cell models with SH2D1A overexpression using the CCK-8, migration and invasion assays and western blotting. The functions and mechanisms of genes co-expressed with SH2D1A were analyzed using gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. The relationship between SH2D1A expression and immune microenvironment features in HCC was explored.

Results

Elevated SH2D1A expression promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, which was related to the overexpression of p-Nf-κB and BCL2A1 protein levels in HCC. SH2D1A expression was related to the immune, stromal, and ESTIMATE scores, and the abundance of immune cells, such as B cells, CD8+ T cells, and T cells. SH2D1A expression was significantly related to the expression of immune cell markers, such as PDCD1, CD8A, and CTLA4 in HCC.

Conclusion

SH2D1A overexpression was found to promote cell growth and metastasis via the Nf-κB signaling pathway and may be related to the immune microenvironment in HCC. The findings indicate that SH2D1A can function as a biomarker in HCC.
A peer-led learning program about intimate and romantic relationships for persons with mental disorders (AIRIKI): co-creation pilot feasibility study
Authors: Kageyama Masako , Yokoyama Keiko , Ichihashi Kayo , Noma Shintaro , Hashimoto Ryota , Nishitani Misato , Okamoto Reiko , Solomon Phyllis
Published: October 2023

Background

Intimate and romantic relationships are important in life for individuals, irrespective of mental health status. We developed a four-hour peer-led learning program for persons with mental disorders about intimate and romantic relationships through a co-creation process with service users and examined its preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of implementing the program.

Methods

A one-group pretest–posttest trial was conducted using a mixed-method design for 45 individuals with mental disorders in Japan. Outcome data were collected at three time points: baseline, post-intervention, and one month after program completion. Mixed models for repeated measures (MMRM) were used to examine changes over time in the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Recovery Assessment Scale (RAS), Herth Hope Index (HHI), and the original items. Group interviews were conducted for process evaluation.

Results

MMRM showed significant changes over time on RSES, RAS, HHI, and two original items “I am able to communicate well with others about myself” and “I am able to listen to others well.” In multiple comparisons, RSES and HHI were significant one month after the program. Participants reported changes during the first month after attending the program in terms of their positive attitude toward romantic relationships (n = 14), taking romantic actions (n = 11), and feeling their overall communication improved (n = 11). Although two participants had an unscheduled psychiatric visit that could be attributed to attending the program, all recovered after one month.

Conclusions

The program exhibited preliminary effectiveness to a moderate extent in improving recovery, particularly regarding self-esteem and hope. The program is feasible but requires further modifications regarding inclusion criteria for participants and the training of peer facilitators.

Trial registration

UMIN000041743;09/09/2020.
Sedentary behaviour and disease risk
Authors: Henson Joseph , De Craemer Marieke , Yates Thomas
Published: October 2023

Sedentary behaviour has become the new reference of living, which has paralleled the increase in the prevalence of multiple chronic diseases. Here, we highlight the evidence to date and propose specific topics of interest for the Collection at BMC Public Health, titled “Sedentary behaviour and disease risk”.
Factors perceived by health professionals to be barriers or facilitators to caries prevention in children: a systematic review
Authors: Lienhart Guillemette , Elsa Masson , Farge Pierre , Schott Anne-Marie , Thivichon-Prince Beatrice , Chanelière Marc
Published: October 2023

Background

Considered the most prevalent noncommunicable disease in childhood, dental caries is both an individual and a collective burden. While international guidelines highlight prevention as a major strategy for caries management in children, health professionals still struggle to implement prevention into their clinical practice. Further research is needed to understand the gap between the theoretical significance of dental prevention and its lack of implementation in the clinical setting. This systematic review aims to identify and classify factors perceived by health professionals to be barriers or facilitators to caries prevention in children.

Method

A systematic literature search was conducted in three electronic databases (Medline, Web of Science and Cairn). Two researchers independently screened titles, abstracts and texts. To be selected, studies had to focus on barriers or facilitators to caries prevention in children and include health professionals as study participants. Qualitative and quantitative studies were selected. The factors influencing caries prevention in children were sorted into 3 main categories (clinician-related factors, patient-related factors, and organizational-related factors) and then classified according to the 14 domains of the theoretical domains framework (TDF).

Results

A total of 1771 references were found by combining manual and database searches. Among them, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria, of which half were qualitative and half were quantitative studies. Dentists (n = 12), pediatricians (n = 11), nurses (n = 9), and physicians (n = 5) were the most frequently interviewed health professionals in our analysis. Barriers and facilitators to caries prevention in children were categorized into 12 TDF domains. The most frequently reported domains were Environmental Context and Resources, Knowledge and Professional Role and Identity.

Conclusion

This systematic review found that a wide range of factors influence caries prevention in children. Our analysis showed that barriers to pediatric oral health promotion affect all stages of the health care system. By highlighting the incompatibility between the health care system’s organization and the implementation of caries prevention, this study aims to help researchers and policy-makers design new interventions to improve children’s access to caries prevention.

Trial registration

PROSPERO CRD42022304545.
Anti-obesity effect of Neoagaro-oligosaccharides with overweight and obese subjects: a 16-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Baek Hyang-Im , Ha Ki-Chan , Park Yu Kyung , Lee Je Hyeon , Kim Eun Joo , Ko Hye-Jeong , Joo Jong Cheon
Published: October 2023

Background

This trial aimed to evaluate the anti-obesity effects and safety of Neoagaro-oligosaccharides (NAOs) in humans in a 16 week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Methods

One hundred overweight or obese subjects with a body mass index of 23 to 34.9 kg/m2 and a percent body fat of > 25% for males or > 30% for females were enrolled. NAOs or placebo products were administered at 3 g (twice a day, four capsules once) each for 16 weeks. Efficacy and safety biomarkers were measured before and after intervention.

Results

After 16 weeks of intervention, the group administered with NAOs had statistically significant decreases in visceral fat area and visceral-subcutaneous fat area ratio compared to the placebo group. The NAOs group suppressed the increase in weight and BMI compared to the placebo group, which was significant between groups. High-density lipoprotein- cholesterol was increased in the group administered with NAOs, which showed a significant trend compared to the placebo group. Clinical changes were not observed for any safety biomarkers.

Conclusions

These results suggest that NAOs have a beneficial effect on obesity. Thus, NAOs could be used as an anti-obesity supplement without side effects.

Trial registration

cris.nih.go.kr: (KCT0006640, 07/10/2021).
Effect of in situ simulation training for emergency caesarean section on maternal and infant outcomes
Authors: Wang Yin , Liu Dehong , Wu Xiumei , Zheng Chenmin , Chen Xianxia
Published: October 2023

Background

Emergency caesarean section (ECS) is an effective method for rapid termination of pregnancy and for saving maternal and foetal life in emergencies. Experts recommend that the interval from decision of operation to the decision to delivery interval (DDI) should be shortened as much as possible. Studies have shown that improving communication skills among staff by performing simulation drills shortens DDI, thus reducing the occurrence of adverse obstetric events and protecting maternal and child safety. In situ simulation (ISS) training is a simulation-based training approach for clinical team members conducted in a real-world clinical setting. In August 2020, Anhui Maternal and Child Health Hospital began ISS training on the rapid obstetric response team (RRT) in our hospital area for emergency caesarean section. This study aimed to investigate the effect of implementing in situ simulation training for emergency caesarean section on maternal and child outcomes by comparing maternal and child-related data on emergency caesarean section in two hospital areas.

Methods

Data on cases of emergency caesarean delivery implemented in two hospital districts from August 2020 to August 2022 were collected: 19 in the untrained group and 26 in the training group. The two groups were compared concerning the interval from the decision of operation to the decision to delivery interval (DDI), the interval from the decision of operation to the initiation of skin incision, the interval from skin incision to the decision to delivery interval, and the neonatal situation.

Results

Primary outcome comparison: The training group had a significantly shorter interval between the DDI compared to the untrained group (8.14 ± 3.13 vs. 11.03 ± 3.52, P = 0.006). Secondary outcomes comparison: The training group had a significantly shorter interval between the decision to cut skin compared to the untrained group (6.45 ± 2.21 vs. 9.95 ± 4.02, P = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the interval between cutting skin and infant delivery between the two groups (2.24 ± 0.08 vs. 2.18 ± 0.13, P > 0.05). Additionally, the Apgar score at 1 min after birth was higher in the training group compared to the untrained group (7.29 ± 2.38 vs. 6.04 ± 1.46, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The DDI for emergency caesarean section procedures can be significantly shortened, and neonatal Apgar scores at 1 min improved by implementing in situ simulation training for emergency caesarean section in obstetric rapid response teams. In situ simulation training is an effective tool for training in emergency caesarean section procedures and is worth promoting.
District nurses’ experiences with involuntary treatment in dementia care at home: a qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Moermans Vincent R.A. , Hamers Jan P.H. , Verbeek Hilde , de Casterlé Bernadette Dierckx , Milisen Koen , Bleijlevens Michel H.C.
Published: October 2023

Background

Research shows that half of person(s) living with dementia (PLWD) receive care which they resist and/or have not given consent to, defined as involuntary treatment. District nurses play a key role in providing this care. Knowledge about how district nurses experience involuntary treatment is lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the experiences of district nurses who used involuntary treatment for PLWD at home.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive design using semi-structured interviews. Sixteen district nurses with experience in involuntary treatment for PLWD were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were analysed using the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven.

Results

District nurses’ experiences with involuntary treatment were influenced by their involvement in the decision-making process. When they were involved, they considered involuntary treatment use to be appropriate care. However, at the moment that involuntary treatment use was started, district nurses were worried that its use was unjust since they wished to respect the wishes of the PLWD. Eventually, district nurses found, from a professional perspective, that involuntary treatment use was necessary, and that safety outweighed the autonomy of the PLWD. District nurses experienced dealing with this dilemma as stressful, due to conflicting values. If district nurses were not involved in the decision-making process regarding the use of involuntary treatment, family caregivers generally decided on its use. Often, district nurses perceived this request as inappropriate dementia care and they first tried to create a dialogue with the family caregivers to reach a compromise. However, in most cases, family caregivers stood by their request and the district nurse still provided involuntary treatment and found this difficult to tolerate.

Conclusions

Our results show that district nurses experience involuntary treatment use as stressful due to dealing with obverse values of safety versus autonomy. To prevent involuntary treatment use and obverse values, we need to increase their ethical awareness, communication skills, knowledge and skills with person-centred care so they can deal with situations that can evolve into involuntary treatment use in a person-centred manner.
Implementing a new birthing room design: a qualitative study with a care provider perspective
Authors: Goldkuhl Lisa , Tistad Malin , Gyllensten Hanna , Berg Marie
Published: October 2023

Background

Research shows that interventions to protect the sensitive physiological process of birth by improving the birthing room design may positively affect perinatal outcomes. It is, however, crucial to understand the mechanisms and contextual elements that influence the outcomes of such complex interventions. Hence, we aimed to explore care providers’ experiences of the implementation of a new hospital birthing room designed to be more supportive of women’s birth physiology.

Methods

This qualitative study reports on the implementation of the new birthing room, which was evaluated in the Room4Birth randomised controlled trial in Sweden. Individual interviews were undertaken with care providers, including assistant nurses, midwives, obstetricians, and managers (n = 21). A content analysis of interview data was conducted and mapped into the three domains of the Normalisation Process Theory coding manual: implementation context, mechanism, and outcome.

Results

The implementation of the new room challenged the prevailing biomedical paradigm within the labour ward context and raised the care providers’ awareness about the complex interplay between birth physiology and the environment. This awareness had the potential to encourage care providers to be more emotionally present, rather than to focus on monitoring practices. The new room also evoked a sense of insecurity due to its unfamiliar design, which acted as a barrier to integrating the room as a well-functioning part of everyday care practice.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the disparity that existed between what care providers considered valuable for women during childbirth and their own requirements from the built environment based on their professional responsibilities. This identified disparity emphasises the importance of hospital birthing rooms (i) supporting women’s emotions and birth physiology and (ii) being standardised to meet care providers’ requirements for a functional work environment.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03948815, 14/05/2019.
Percutaneous transvenous coil embolization (PTCE) for treatment of single extrahepatic portosystemic shunt in dogs
Authors: Ishigaki Kumiko , Asano Kazushi , Tamura Kei , Sakurai Naoki , Terai Kazuyuki , Heishima Tatsuya , Yoshida Orie
Published: October 2023

Background

There is limited information regarding percutaneous transvenous coil embolization (PTCE) for single extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (PSS). This study aimed to describe the procedure and outcome of PTCE in dogs with a single extrahepatic PSS. Forty-two privately owned dogs were included in this study. All dogs were diagnosed with extrahepatic PSS by computed tomography (CT). Preoperative CT images were used to evaluate the diameter of the PSS for coil placement. A multipurpose balloon catheter was percutaneously inserted into the PSS via the jugular vein, and transvenous retrograde portography (TRP) and measurement of blood pressure in the PSS (pPSS) were performed during balloon inflation; one or more embolization coils were implanted via the catheter.

Results

In most cases, preoperative median fasting and postprandial serum total bile acid (TBA) concentrations were high (fasting, 86.5 μmol/L [ 3.7–250.0 μmol/L]; postprandial, 165.5 μmol/L [ 1.5–565.0 μmol/L]). CT revealed that 30 dogs had left gastrophrenic shunt; eight had left gastroazygos shunt; and one each had left gastrocaval, splenocaval, splenophrenic, and left colocaval shunt. TRP revealed that intrahepatic portal vascularity was clearly detectable in all dogs. The median values of pPSS before and during the balloon occlusion were 4.8 mmHg [2.0–13.0 mmHg] and 8.6 mmHg [5.0–18.0 mmHg], respectively. The median number and diameter of coils used were 2 coils [1 – 5 coils] and 8.0 mm [4.0 – 12.0 mm], respectively. The median times of irradiation and PTCE were 9 min [4–26 min] and 40 min [23–75 min], respectively. The median fasting and postprandial TBAs significantly decreased to 8.2 μmol/L [0.3–45.1 μmol/L,n = 38, p = 0.0028] and 19.8 μmol/L [0.3–106.7 μmol/L,n = 38,p = 0.0018], respectively, approximately 1 month after PTCE. The clinical success rate of PTCE without requirement for a second surgery was 95.2% (40/42 dogs). During revision surgery, one dog underwent surgical ligation and, in another dog, an ameroid constrictor was placed.

Conclusions

PTCE was clinically effective in treating single extrahepatic PSS in dogs. Preoperative CT and TRP prior to PTCE might be clinically valuable for choosing the size of embolization coils, deciding the appropriate location of coil implantation, and estimating the number of coils to be implanted. PTCE is a promising alternative to conventional surgical procedures for single extrahepatic PSS in dogs.
Perfluoroalkyl substances in umbilical cord blood and blood pressure in offspring: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Xu Zhikang , Du Bowen , Wang Hualin , Li Zhuoyan , Wu Yujian , Wang Qianchuo , Niu Yiwei , Zhang Qianlong , Sun Kun , Wang Jian , Chen Sun
Published: October 2023

Background

Humans are widely exposed to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been found to be associated with various adverse birth outcomes. As blood pressure (BP) is an important parameter reflecting cardiovascular health in early life, it is necessary to investigate the association of PFAS exposure during early lifetime and BP in childhood. Therefore, we investigated the potential association between PFAS levels in umbilical cord blood and BP of the offspring at 4 years of age in a prospective cohort study.

Methods

PFAS in umbilical cord blood samples after birth were measured with high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry in the Shanghai Birth Cohort. BP was measured at 4 years of age in the offspring. Multiple linear regression model was used to investigate the association between individual PFAS level and BP of the offspring. Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) was used to analyze the relationship between the PFAS mixture and BP of the offspring, while weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression was utilized for sensitivity analysis.

Results

A total of 129 mother-child pairs were included in our analysis. In multiple linear regressions, we observed that long-chain PFAS, mainly including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUA), was negatively associated with systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). BKMR showed that an increase in umbilical cord blood PFAS mixture levels was significantly associated with a decrease in SBP, DBP and MAP [Estimated differences (SD): -0.433 (0.161); -0.437 (0.176); -0.382 (0.179), respectively]. The most important component in the association with SBP, DBP, and MAP was PFUA. PFDoA was found to be positively associated with SBP, DBP and MAP in both models. Sensitivity analysis with WQS regression showed consistent results.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that umbilical blood PFAS exposure was negatively associated with BP in offspring at 4 years of age, including SBP, DBP, and MAP.
Washed microbiota transplantation improves renal function in patients with renal dysfunction: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhong Hao-Jie , Xie Xinqiang , Chen Wen-Jia , Zhuang Yu-Pei , Hu Xuan , Cai Ying-Li , Zeng Hong-Lie , Xiao Chuanxing , Li Ying , Ding Yu , Xue Liang , Chen Moutong , Zhang Jumei , Wu Qingping , He Xing-Xiang
Published: October 2023

Background

Changes in the gut microbiota composition is a hallmark of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and interventions targeting the gut microbiota present a potent approach for CKD treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of washed microbiota transplantation (WMT), a modified faecal microbiota transplantation method, on the renal activity of patients with renal dysfunction.

Methods

A comparative analysis of gut microbiota profiles was conducted in patients with renal dysfunction and healthy controls. Furthermore, the efficacy of WMT on renal parameters in patients with renal dysfunction was evaluated, and the changes in gut microbiota and urinary metabolites after WMT treatment were analysed.

Results

Principal coordinate analysis revealed a significant difference in microbial community structure between patients with renal dysfunction and healthy controls (P = 0.01). Patients with renal dysfunction who underwent WMT exhibited significant improvement in serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and blood urea nitrogen (all P < 0.05) compared with those who did not undergo WMT. The incidence of adverse events associated with WMT treatment was low (2.91%). After WMT, the Shannon index of gut microbiota and the abundance of several probiotic bacteria significantly increased in patients with renal dysfunction, aligning their gut microbiome profiles more closely with those of healthy donors (all P < 0.05). Additionally, the urine of patients after WMT demonstrated relatively higher levels of three toxic metabolites, namely hippuric acid, cinnamoylglycine, and indole (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

WMT is a safe and effective method for improving renal function in patients with renal dysfunction by modulating the gut microbiota and promoting toxic metabolite excretion.

Graphical Abstract
Investigation of side effects to treatment and cause of death in 63 Scandinavian dogs suffering from meningoencephalitis of unknown origin: a retrospective study
Authors: Heidemann Pernille Lindholm , Erhald Bolette , Koch Bodil Cathrine , Gredal Hanne
Published: October 2023

Background

Meningoencephalitis of unknown origin is a common cause of severe neurological disease in dogs. The term covers a heterogeneous group of noninfectious inflammatory diseases, with immune dysregulation widely accepted as the underlying disease mechanism. Current treatment consists of immunosuppression, with corticosteroids being the mainstay of virtually all treatment regimens. However, side effects of corticosteroids can be severe, and might be the cause of death in some patients. This retrospective, multi-centric study aimed at describing a population of Scandinavian dogs with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin in regards to reported side effects and cause of death, and to highlight possible differences in survival, when comparing corticosteroid monotherapy with other treatment regimens.

Results

Within the 5-year study period, 63 dogs were included. Of these, 35 (55.6%) died or were euthanized during the study period. Median survival time from time of diagnosis based on Kaplan-Meier curves for the overall population was 714 days (equivalent to around 25 months, range 0-1678 days). There was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.31) in survival between dogs treated with corticosteroid monotherapy (n = 26, median survival time 716 days, equivalent to around 25 months, range 5–911 days), dogs receiving a combination of corticosteroids and ciclosporin (n = 15, median survival time 916 days, equivalent to around 31 months, range 35–1678 days), and dogs receiving corticosteroids combined with either cytosine arabinoside, leflunomide, or a combination of 2 or more add-on drugs (n = 13, median survival time 1186 days, equivalent to around 40 months, range 121–1640 days). Side effects were registered for 47/63 dogs. Polyphagia (n = 37/47), polyuria/polydipsia (n = 37/47), diarrhea (n = 29/47) and lethargy (n = 28/47) were most frequently reported. The most common cause for euthanasia was relapse (n = 15/35, 42.9%), followed by insufficient or lack of treatment response (n = 9, 25.7%). Side effects were the direct cause of euthanasia in 2/35 dogs (5.7%).

Conclusions

A large proportion of dogs in the overall population were euthanized due to relapse, emphasizing a need for treatment regimens aimed at specifically preventing relapse for an improved long-term survival. Side effects in dogs receiving corticosteroid monotherapy were rarely a direct cause of death, but were reported for all dogs. No statistically significant difference in survival was found when corticosteroid monotherapy was compared to other treatment regimens.
UGDH promotes tumor-initiating cells and a fibroinflammatory tumor microenvironment in ovarian cancer
Authors: Harrington Brittney S. , Kamdar Rahul , Ning Franklin , Korrapati Soumya , Caminear Michael W. , Hernandez Lidia F. , Butcher Donna , Edmondson Elijah F. , Traficante Nadia , Hendley Joy ,   Australian Ovarian Cancer Study, Gough Madeline , Rogers Rebecca , Lourie Rohan , Shetty Jyoti , Tran Bao , Elloumi Fathi , Abdelmaksoud Abdalla , Nag Madhu Lal , Mazan-Mamczarz Krystyna , House Carrie D. , Hooper John D. , Annunziata Christina M.
Published: October 2023

Background

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a global health burden, with the poorest five-year survival rate of the gynecological malignancies due to diagnosis at advanced stage and high recurrence rate. Recurrence in EOC is driven by the survival of chemoresistant, stem-like tumor-initiating cells (TICs) that are supported by a complex extracellular matrix and immunosuppressive microenvironment. To target TICs to prevent recurrence, we identified genes critical for TIC viability from a whole genome siRNA screen. A top hit was the cancer-associated, proteoglycan subunit synthesis enzyme UDP-glucose dehydrogenase (UGDH).

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was used to characterize UGDH expression in histological and molecular subtypes of EOC. EOC cell lines were subtyped according to the molecular subtypes and the functional effects of modulating UGDH expression in vitro and in vivo in C1/Mesenchymal and C4/Differentiated subtype cell lines was examined.

Results

High UGDH expression was observed in high-grade serous ovarian cancers and a distinctive survival prognostic for UGDH expression was revealed when serous cancers were stratified by molecular subtype. High UGDH was associated with a poor prognosis in the C1/Mesenchymal subtype and low UGDH was associated with poor prognosis in the C4/Differentiated subtype. Knockdown of UGDH in the C1/mesenchymal molecular subtype reduced spheroid formation and viability and reduced the CD133 + /ALDH high TIC population. Conversely, overexpression of UGDH in the C4/Differentiated subtype reduced the TIC population. In co-culture models, UGDH expression in spheroids affected the gene expression of mesothelial cells causing changes to matrix remodeling proteins, and fibroblast collagen production. Inflammatory cytokine expression of spheroids was altered by UGDH expression. The effect of UGDH knockdown or overexpression in the C1/ Mesenchymal and C4/Differentiated subtypes respectively was tested on mouse intrabursal xenografts and showed dynamic changes to the tumor stroma. Knockdown of UGDH improved survival and reduced tumor burden in C1/Mesenchymal compared to controls.

Conclusions

These data show that modulation of UGDH expression in ovarian cancer reveals distinct roles for UGDH in the C1/Mesenchymal and C4/Differentiated molecular subtypes of EOC, influencing the tumor microenvironmental composition. UGDH is a strong potential therapeutic target in TICs, for the treatment of EOC, particularly in patients with the mesenchymal molecular subtype.
Lower versus higher oxygen targets for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cheng Xin , Zhang Yu , Deng Haidong , Feng Yuning , Chong Weelic , Hai Yang , Hao Pengfei , He Jialing , Li Tiangui , Peng Liyuan , Wang Peng , Xiao Yangchun , Fang Fang
Published: October 2023

Background

Supplemental oxygen is commonly administered to patients after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. However, the findings from studies on oxygen targeting for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest are inconclusive. Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of lower oxygen target compared with higher oxygen target on patients after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Methods

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, from inception to February 6, 2023, for randomized controlled trials comparing lower and higher oxygen target in adults (aged ≥ 18 years) after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. We screened studies and extracted data independently. The primary outcome was mortality at 90 days after cardiac arrest. We assessed quality of evidence using the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation approach. This study was registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42023409368.

Results

The analysis included 7 randomized controlled trials with a total of 1451 participants. Compared with lower oxygen target, the use of a higher oxygen target was not associated with a higher mortality rate (relative risk 0.97, 95% confidence intervals 0.82 to 1.14; I2 = 25%). Findings were robust to trial sequential, subgroup, and sensitivity analysis.

Conclusion

Lower oxygen target did not reduce the mortality compared with higher oxygen target in patients after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
GeneSegNet: a deep learning framework for cell segmentation by integrating gene expression and imaging
Authors: Wang Yuxing , Wang Wenguan , Liu Dongfang , Hou Wenpin , Zhou Tianfei , Ji Zhicheng
Published: October 2023

When analyzing data from in situ RNA detection technologies, cell segmentation is an essential step in identifying cell boundaries, assigning RNA reads to cells, and studying the gene expression and morphological features of cells. We developed a deep-learning-based method, GeneSegNet, that integrates both gene expression and imaging information to perform cell segmentation. GeneSegNet also employs a recursive training strategy to deal with noisy training labels. We show that GeneSegNet significantly improves cell segmentation performances over existing methods that either ignore gene expression information or underutilize imaging information.
Dual spatially resolved transcriptomics for human host–pathogen colocalization studies in FFPE tissue sections
Authors: Sounart Hailey , Lázár Enikő , Masarapu Yuvarani , Wu Jian , Várkonyi Tibor , Glasz Tibor , Kiss András , Borgström Erik , Hill Andrew , Rezene Sefanit , Gupta Soham , Jurek Aleksandra , Niesnerová Anezka , Druid Henrik , Bergmann Olaf , Giacomello Stefania
Published: October 2023

Technologies to study localized host–pathogen interactions are urgently needed. Here, we present a spatial transcriptomics approach to simultaneously capture host and pathogen transcriptome-wide spatial gene expression information from human formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sections at a near single-cell resolution. We demonstrate this methodology in lung samples from COVID-19 patients and validate our spatial detection of SARS-CoV-2 against RNAScope and in situ sequencing. Host–pathogen colocalization analysis identified putative modulators of SARS-CoV-2 infection in human lung cells. Our approach provides new insights into host response to pathogen infection through the simultaneous, unbiased detection of two transcriptomes in FFPE samples.
CircPTPN22 modulates T-cell activation by sponging miR-4689 to regulate S1PR1 expression in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Jiang Zhuyan , Li Shifei , Jia Yuying , Wu Qijun , Chen Xuemeng , Zhang Mengjie , Miao Qingqing , Zhong Zhiting , Zhai Zhifang , Ni Bing , Xiao Jun , Tang Jun
Published: October 2023

Background

Circular RNAs are involved in autoimmune disease pathogenesis. Our previous study indicated that circPTPN22 is involved in autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods

First, the expression of circPTPN22 was detected by real-time PCR and western blotting. After overexpression or knockdown of circPTPN22, the proliferation of Jurkat cells was detected by the CCK-8 assay, and the apoptosis of Jurkat cells was detected by flow cytometry. In addition, the relationship between circPTPN22-miR-4689-S1PR1 was confirmed by bioinformatic analyses, fluorescence in situ hybridization assays, RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation, and dual luciferase reporter assays.

Results

We found that circPTPN22 expression was downregulated in the PBMCs of SLE patients compared to those of healthy controls. Overexpression of circPTPN22 increased proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of Jurkat T cells, whereas knockdown of circPTPN22 exerted the opposite effects. CircPTPN22 acts as a miR-4689 sponge, and S1PR1 is a direct target of miR-4689. Importantly, the circPTPN22/miR-4689/S1PR1 axis inhibited the secretion of TNF-α and IL-6 in Jurkat T cells.

Conclusions

CircPTPN22 acts as a miR-4689 sponge to regulate T-cell activation by targeting S1PR1, providing a novel mechanism for the pathogenesis of SLE.