bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Youth and Violence in Brazil and Latin America: Theoretical and Empirical Approaches
Authors: de Mattos Pimenta Melissa
Published: November 2023

Studies in Brazil and other Latin American countries have demonstrated how the expansion of illegal drug markets and firearms trafficking over borders has increased the risks for young people, especially those who live in socially vulnerable neighborhoods, of becoming victims of lethal violence. In addressing this scenario, we review some of the most relevant research approaches that seek to understand the involvement of young men in organized crime, the rise of criminal factions or groups and their internationalization process, and the social and institutional mechanisms that contribute to the production and reproduction of lethal violence. Delving both into sociological and anthropological studies in Brazil, as well as other Latin American contributions, we elaborate on the most promising contributions that combine an intersectional approach to the sociological and criminological theories most often employed to understand the involvement of youth with lethal violence in Brazil and the Latin American context.
New species of Myopsocidae (Insecta: Psocodea: “Psocoptera”) from Colombia
Authors: GONZÁLEZ-OBANDO RANULFO , CALDERÓN-MARTÍNEZ NADIA R. , CARREJO-GIRONZA NANCY S.
Published: November 2023

To broaden the knowledge of the diversity of Myopsocidae (Psocomorpha: Psocetae) in the neotropical region, a review of specimens collected in the last 12 years by the Entomological Research Group (GIE) was carried out. Twenty-six species belonging to the genera Lichenomima and Myopsocus were found, of which 22 are new to science and are here described and illustrated, they are: Lichenomima bonaverensis n. sp., L. gorgonaensis n. sp., L. guapiensis n. sp., L. huilensis n. sp., L. iscuande n. sp., L. lienhardi n. sp., L. occidentalis n. sp., L. pearmani n. sp., Myopsocus amacayacu n. sp., M. amazonensis n. sp., M. andaquies n. sp., M. caliensis n. sp., M. caquetensis n. sp., M. chocoensis n. sp., M. colombianus n. sp., M. garcialdretei n. sp., M. inga n. sp., M. insularis n. sp., M. katios n. sp., M. panchei n. sp., M. putumayensis n. sp. and M. tukunare n. sp. Four species, L. onca Mockford, L. ariasi (New), M. minor (New & Thornton) and M. minutus (Mockford), are also recorded from Colombia. A key for the determination of South American species is also presented.
The intestinal microbiota as mediators between dietary contaminants and host health
Authors: Cox Amon , Bomstein Zach , Jayaraman Arul , Allred Clinton
Published: November 2023

The gut microbiota sit at an important interface between the host and the environment, and are exposed to a multitude of nutritive and non-nutritive substances. These microbiota are critical to maintaining host health, but their supportive roles may be compromised in response to endogenous compounds. Numerous non-nutritive substances are introduced through contaminated foods, with three common groups of contaminants being bisphenols, phthalates, and mycotoxins. The former contaminants are commonly introduced through food and/or beverages packaged in plastic, while mycotoxins contaminate various crops used to feed livestock and humans alike. Each group of contaminants have been shown to shift microbial communities following exposure; however, specific patterns in microbial responses have yet to be identified, and little is known about the capacity of the microbiota to metabolize these contaminants. This review characterizes the state of existing research related to gut microbial responses to and biotransformation of bisphenols, phthalates, and mycotoxins. Collectively, we highlight the need to identify consistent, contaminant-specific responses in microbial shifts, whether these community alterations are a result of contaminant effects on the host or microbiota directly, and to identify the extent of contaminant biotransformation by microbiota, including if these transformations occur in physiologically relevant contexts.
Characterizations of the multi-kingdom gut microbiota in Chinese patients with gouty arthritis
Authors: Chen Changming , Zhang Yue , Yao Xueming , Yan Qiulong , Li Shenghui , Zhong Qin , Liu Zhengqi , Tang Fang , Liu Can , Li Hufan , Zhu Dan , Lan Weiya , Ling Yi , Lu Daomin , Xu Hui , Ning Qiaoyi , Wang Ying , Jiang Zong , Zhang Qiongyu , Gu Guangzhao , Sun Liping , Wang Nan , Wang Guangyang , Zhang Aiqin , Ullah Hayan , Sun Wen , Ma Wukai
Published: November 2023

Objective

The gut microbial composition has been linked to metabolic and autoimmune diseases, including arthritis. However, there is a dearth of knowledge on the gut bacteriome, mycobiome, and virome in patients with gouty arthritis (GA).

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the multi-kingdom gut microbiome of 26 GA patients and 28 healthy controls, using whole-metagenome shotgun sequencing of their stool samples.

Results

Profound alterations were observed in the gut bacteriome, mycobiome, and virome of GA patients. We identified 1,117 differentially abundant bacterial species, 23 fungal species, and 4,115 viral operational taxonomic units (vOTUs). GA-enriched bacteria included Escherichia coli_D GENOME144544, Bifidobacterium infantis GENOME095938, Blautia_A wexlerae GENOME096067, and Klebsiella pneumoniae GENOME147598, while control-enriched bacteria comprised Faecalibacterium prausnitzii_G GENOME147678, Agathobacter rectalis GENOME143712, and Bacteroides_A plebeius_A GENOME239725. GA-enriched fungi included opportunistic pathogens like Cryptococcus neoformans GCA_011057565, Candida parapsilosis GCA_000182765, and Malassezia spp., while control-enriched fungi featured several Hortaea werneckii subclades and Aspergillus fumigatus GCA_000002655. GA-enriched vOTUs mainly attributed to Siphoviridae, Myoviridae, Podoviridae, and Microviridae, whereas control-enriched vOTUs spanned 13 families, including Siphoviridae, Myoviridae, Podoviridae, Quimbyviridae, Phycodnaviridae, and crAss-like. A co-abundance network revealed intricate interactions among these multi-kingdom signatures, signifying their collective influence on the disease. Furthermore, these microbial signatures demonstrated the potential to effectively discriminate between patients and controls, highlighting their diagnostic utility.

Conclusions

This study yields crucial insights into the characteristics of the GA microbiota that may inform future mechanistic and therapeutic investigations.
Promoting data harmonization to evaluate vaccine hesitancy in LMICs: approach and applications
Authors: Rego Ryan T. , Zhukov Yuri , Reneau Kyrani A. , Pienta Amy , Rice Kristina L. , Brady Patrick , Siwo Geoffrey H. , Wachira Peninah Wanjiku , Abubakar Amina , Kollman Ken , Waljee Akbar K.
Published: November 2023

Background

Factors influencing the health of populations are subjects of interdisciplinary study. However, datasets relevant to public health often lack interdisciplinary breath. It is difficult to combine data on health outcomes with datasets on potentially important contextual factors, like political violence or development, due to incompatible levels of geographic support; differing data formats and structures; differences in sampling procedures and wording; and the stability of temporal trends. We present a computational package to combine spatially misaligned datasets, and provide an illustrative analysis of multi-dimensional factors in health outcomes.

Methods

We rely on a new software toolkit, Sub-National Geospatial Data Archive (SUNGEO), to combine data across disciplinary domains and demonstrate a use case on vaccine hesitancy in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). We use data from the World Bank’s High Frequency Phone Surveys (HFPS) from Kenya, Indonesia, and Malawi. We curate and combine these surveys with data on political violence, elections, economic development, and other contextual factors, using SUNGEO. We then develop a stochastic model to analyze the integrated data and evaluate 1) the stability of vaccination preferences in all three countries over time, and 2) the association between local contextual factors and vaccination preferences.

Results

In all three countries, vaccine-acceptance is more persistent than vaccine-hesitancy from round to round: the long-run probability of staying vaccine-acceptant (hesitant) was 0.96 (0.65) in Indonesia, 0.89 (0.21) in Kenya, and 0.76 (0.40) in Malawi. However, vaccine acceptance was significantly less durable in areas exposed to political violence, with percentage point differences (ppd) in vaccine acceptance of -10 (Indonesia), -5 (Kenya), and -64 (Malawi). In Indonesia and Kenya, although not Malawi, vaccine acceptance was also significantly less durable in locations without competitive elections (-19 and -6 ppd, respectively) and in locations with more limited transportation infrastructure (-11 and -8 ppd).

Conclusion

With SUNGEO, researchers can combine spatially misaligned and incompatible datasets. As an illustrative example, we find that vaccination hesitancy is correlated with political violence, electoral uncompetitiveness and limited access to public goods, consistent with past results that vaccination hesitancy is associated with government distrust.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by concurrent chemoradiotherapy with or without nimotuzumab in the treatment of locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a retrospective study
Authors: Yang Zhi , Zuo Quan , Liu Rong , Wu Hui , Xiong Li , Jia Jieqi , Xiang Zhibi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

We aimed to investigate the efficacy and side effects of concurrent chemoradiotherapy, with or without nimotuzumab, for the treatment of locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma after neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods

This study retrospectively enrolled 109 patients with NPC from our hospital from July 2019 to May 2021.All patients were treated with docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil(TPF) neoadjuvant chemotherapy for 2 cycles, and concurrent chemoradiotherapy was performed 2 weeks after chemotherapy. According to whether nimotuzumab was added in concurrent chemoradiotherapy, they were divided into the nimotuzumab group and the control group, with 52 cases in the nimotuzumab group and 57 cases in the control group.The efficacy and adverse reactions of the two groups were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The objective remission and complete remission rates in the nimotuzumab and control groups were 100% vs 98.2% (p = 1.000), and 92.3% vs 78.9% (p = 0.049), respectively. The 3-year distant metastasis-free survival of the nimotuzumab and control groups was 91.6% and 77.3% (p = 0.047), respectively.The 3-year progression-free survival, locoregional relapse-free survival, and overall survival of the nimotuzumab and control groups were 87.6% vs 75.5% (p = 0.110), 90.5% vs 86.9% (p = 0.566), and 94.5% vs 87.1% (p = 0.295), respectively. In the nimotuzumab group, subgroup analysis showed that patients aged < 60 years (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.350, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.131–0.934, p = 0.036) and those with a neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio) ≤ 4 (HR = 0.365, 95% CI: 0.144–0.923, p = 0.033) achieved a better result. Additionally, multivariate analysis demonstrated that neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio was an independent risk factor for disease progression (HR = 7.485, p = 0.012) and distant metastasis (HR = 17.540, p = 0.009).No grade 4 adverse reactions were observed in either group. Grade 3 oral mucosal reactions, as well as pharyngeal and esophageal reactions were slightly higher in the nimotuzumab group than in the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant. No significant differences were observed in the incidence of adverse reactions such as leukopenia, HB reduction, thrombocytopenia between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The concurrent chemoradiotherapy plus nimotuzumab after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma achieved a higher complete remission rate and significantly improved distant metastasis-free survival compared with concurrent chemoradiotherapy alone. Additionally, an increasing trend was observed in progression-free survival, and the incidence of side effects was similar in both groups.
A scoping review of the self-reported compassion measurement tools
Authors: Jiang Hu , Wang Wenna , Mei Yongxia , Zhao Zhixin , Lin Beilei , Zhang Zhenxiang
Published: November 2023

Background

Compassion is closely linked to psychological well-being, and several assessment tools have been developed and studied to assess the level of compassion in different populations and for more precise measurement. There is currently a scarcity of comprehensive knowledge about compassion-related assessment tools, and our research provides an overview of these tools.

Aims

To identify scales used to measure compassion from different flows, and to assess their measurement properties and quality.

Methods

Focusing on compassion assessment tools, the authors conducted a thorough search of 10 Chinese and English databases from their establishment until August 14, 2022. Data extracted included the author, year, country, objectives, target population, as well as the primary evaluation content. Using the COSMIN checklist, the methodological quality and measurement properties of the included studies were appraised. This scoping review was registered with the Open Science Framework and followed the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist.

Results

There were 15,965 papers searched, and 36 compassion-related measurement tools were identified in this study. None of the 36 studies provided possessed all nine psychometric properties, as outlined by the COSMIN criteria. On the basis of a systematic evaluation of quality, measurement qualities were ranked. The results for internal consistency and content validity were relatively favorable, whereas the results for structural validity were variable and the results for the remaining attributes were either uncertain or negative. A Venn diagram was used to illustrate the overlapping groups of compassion measurement tools based on the three-way flow of compassion. An overview of the reference instrument and theoretical basis for the included studies was provided, and half of them did not contain any theoretical or scale-based evidence.

Conclusion

In this study, 36 compassion-related measuring instruments were identified, and the methodological quality and measurement properties of the included studies were acceptable. The included measurements were consistent with flows of compassion. A further focus of further research should be on developing theories in the compassion domain and developing instruments for measuring compassion that are multidimensional, multi-populations, and culturally relevant.
Heavy metal levels and flavonoid intakes are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: an NHANES analysis (2007–2010 to 2017–2018)
Authors: Yan Zhaoqi , Xu Yifeng , Li Keke , Liu Liangji
Published: November 2023

Background

The association between exposure to environmental metals and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is preventing chronic lung diseases. However, little is currently known about the interaction between heavy metals and flavonoids in relation to the risk of COPD. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by leveraging The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database to evaluate thecorrelation between blood levels of heavy metals (cadmium, lead, mercury) and the intake of various flavonoid compounds (isoflavones, anthocyanidins, flavan-3-ols, flavanones, flavones, flavonols, total flavonoids). Additionally, appropriate dietary recommendations are provided based on the study findings.

Materials and methods

Cross-sectional analysis was conducted using the 2007–2010 and 2017–2018 NHANES data. Specialized weighted complex survey design analysis software was used for data analysis. Multivariate logistic regression models and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to evaluate the relationship between blood heavy metal levels, flavonoids intake, and COPD incidence in all participants, and to explore the effect of different levels of flavonoids intake on COPD caused by heavy metal exposure.

Results

A total of 7,265 adults aged ≥ 40 years were analyzed. Higher levels of blood cadmium (Cd), blood lead and Anthocyanidin (AC) intake were independently associated with an increased risk of COPD (Cd highest quantile vs. lowest: OR = 1.73, 95% CI, 1.25–2.3; Lead highest quantile vs. lowest quantile: OR = 1.44, 95% CI, 1.11–1.86; AC highest quantile vs. lowest: OR = 0.73, 95% CI, 0.54–0.99). When AC intake exceeded 11.56 mg/d, the effect of Cd exposure on COPD incidence decreased by 27%, and this finding was more significant in smokers.

Conclusion

Higher levels of Cd (≥ 0.45ug/L) and lead (≥ 0.172 ug/L) were positively correlated with the risk of COPD among participants aged 40 years and above, while AC intake (≥ 11.56 mg/d) could reduce the risk related to blood Cd.
Prospective effects of food safety trust on brand evangelism: a moderated-mediation role of consumer perceived ethicality and brand passion
Authors: Guanqi Zhou , Nisa Zeb Un
Published: November 2023

Background

The current study integrates brand management literature with food consumption research and develops an integrative framework by combining food safety trust, consumer perceived ethicality, brand evangelism, and brand passion into a single conceptual model.

Method

This quantitative study included 228 ready-to-eat consumers in China using purposive sampling. Data were collected at two periods in time, resulting in a time-lag study in which respondents provided data on independent and moderating variables at time 1 and mediating and dependent variables at time 2 with the same respondents from time 1. The hypothesized correlations were tested using SEM and PROCESS Macro techniques.

Results

According to the findings, trust in food safety has a significant impact on brand evangelism and passion. Furthermore, consumer perceived ethicality (CPE) found to have a substantial moderating role between food safety-FS and brand passion. Moreover, we validated the brand passion role as a mediator between brand evangelism and food safety trust, and investigated whether consumer perceived ethicality conditionally affects the strength of the indirect relationship among food safety trust and brand evangelism through brand passion, indicating a moderated-mediation mechanism.

Originality

Drawing on Sternberg theory of love, current study is the first of its kind to evaluate the boundary role as well as the conditional indirect influence of customer perceived ethicality among the study’s variables and provides useful information for ready-to-eat food brand managers on how to keep them interested in their risk-free food products.
Accelerometer-measured absolute versus relative physical activity intensity: cross-sectional associations with cardiometabolic health in midlife
Authors: Fridolfsson Jonatan , Arvidsson Daniel , Ekblom-Bak Elin , Ekblom Örjan , Bergström Göran , Börjesson Mats
Published: November 2023

Background

Observational studies investigating the association between accelerometer-measured physical activity and health all use absolute measures of physical activity intensity. However, intervention studies suggest that the physical activity intensity required to improve health is relative to individual fitness. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between accelerometer-measured absolute and relative physical activity intensity and cardiometabolic health, and what implications these associations may have on the interpretation of health-associated physical activity.

Methods

A sample of the cross-sectional Swedish CArdioPulmonary bioImage Study (SCAPIS) consisting of 4,234 men and women aged 55–64 years was studied. Physical activity intensity was measured by accelerometry and expressed as absolute (e.g., metabolic equivalents of task) or relative (percentage of maximal oxygen consumption). Fitness was estimated by the submaximal Ekblom-Bak test. A composite (‘metabolic syndrome’) score combined measures of waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and glycated hemoglobin. Associations of absolute and relative physical activity intensity with the health indicators (i.e., fitness and metabolic syndrome score) were studied by partial least squares regression. Analyses were stratified by fitness level.

Results

Both absolute and relative physical activity intensity associated with the health indicators. However, the strongest associations for absolute intensity varied depending on fitness levels, whereas the associations for relative intensity were more synchronized across fitness groups. The dose–response relationship between moderate-to-vigorous intensity and the health indicators was stronger for relative than for absolute intensity. The absolute and relative moderate-to-vigorous intensity cut-offs intersected at the 5th fitness percentile, indicating that the absolute intensity cut-off is too low for 95% of individuals in this sample. While 99% of individuals fulfilled the general physical activity recommendations based on absolute intensity measures, only 21% fulfilled the recommendations based on relative intensity measures. In relation to a “sufficient” fitness level, 9% fulfilled the recommendations.

Conclusions

Accelerometer-measured relative physical activity intensity represents the intensity related to health benefits regardless of fitness level. Traditional absolute moderate intensity accelerometer cut-offs are too low for most individuals and should be adapted to the fitness level in the sample studied. Absolute and relative physical activity intensity cannot be used interchangeably.
Risk adjustment model for tuberculosis compared to non-tuberculosis mycobacterium or latent tuberculosis infection: Center for Personalized Precision Medicine of Tuberculosis (cPMTb) cohort database
Authors: Seo Woo Jung , Koo Hyeon-Kyoung , Kang Ji Yeon , Kang Jieun , Park So Hee , Kang Hyung Koo , Park Hye Kyeong , Lee Sung-Soon , Choi Sangbong , Jang Tae Won , Shin Kyeong-Cheol , Oh Jee Youn , Choi Joon Young , Min Jinsoo , Choi Young-Kyung , Shin Jae-Gook , Cho Yong-Soon
Published: November 2023

Background

The Center for Personalized Precision Medicine of Tuberculosis (cPMTb) was constructed to develop personalized pharmacotherapeutic systems for tuberculosis (TB). This study aimed to introduce the cPMTb cohort and compare the distinct characteristics of patients with TB, non-tuberculosis mycobacterium (NTM) infection, or latent TB infection (LTBI). We also determined the prevalence and specific traits of polymorphisms in N-acetyltransferase-2 (NAT2) and solute carrier organic anion transporter family member 1B1 (SLCO1B1) phenotypes using this prospective multinational cohort.

Methods

Until August 2021, 964, 167, and 95 patients with TB, NTM infection, and LTBI, respectively, were included. Clinical, laboratory, and radiographic data were collected. NAT2 and SLCO1B1 phenotypes were classified by genomic DNA analysis.

Results

Patients with TB were older, had lower body mass index (BMI), higher diabetes rate, and higher male proportion than patients with LTBI. Patients with NTM infection were older, had lower BMI, lower diabetes rate, higher previous TB history, and higher female proportion than patients with TB. Patients with TB had the lowest albumin levels, and the prevalence of the rapid, intermediate, and slow/ultra-slow acetylator phenotypes were 39.2%, 48.1%, and 12.7%, respectively. The prevalence of rapid, intermediate, and slow/ultra-slow acetylator phenotypes were 42.0%, 44.6%, and 13.3% for NTM infection, and 42.5%, 48.3%, and 9.1% for LTBI, respectively, which did not differ significantly from TB. The prevalence of the normal, intermediate, and lower transporter SLCO1B1 phenotypes in TB, NTM, and LTBI did not differ significantly; 74.9%, 22.7%, and 2.4% in TB; 72.0%, 26.1%, and 1.9% in NTM; and 80.7%, 19.3%, and 0% in LTBI, respectively.

Conclusions

Understanding disease characteristics and identifying pharmacokinetic traits are fundamental steps in optimizing treatment. Further longitudinal data are required for personalized precision medicine.

Trial registration

This study registered ClinicalTrials.gov NO. NCT05280886.
Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy vs. transperineal mesh repair for obstructed defecation syndrome associated with rectocele: comparison of selectively distributed patients
Authors: Balci Bengi , Leventoglu Sezai , Osmanov Igbal , Erkan Beyza , Irkilata Yasemin , Mentes Bulent
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Obstructed defecation syndrome represents 50–60% of patients with symptoms of constipation. We aimed to compare the two frequently performed surgical methods, laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy and transperineal mesh repair, for this condition in terms of functional and surgical outcomes.

Methods

This study is a retrospective review of 131 female patients who were diagnosed with obstructed defecation syndrome, attributed to rectocele with or without rectal intussusception, enterocele, hysterocele or cystocele, and who underwent either laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy or transperineal mesh repair. Patients were evaluated for surgical outcomes based on the operative time, the length of hospital stay, operative complications, using prospectively designed charts. Functional outcome was assessed by using the Initial Measurement of Patient-Reported Pelvic Floor Complaints Tool.

Results

Fifty-one patients diagnosed with complex rectocele underwent laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy, and 80 patients diagnosed with simple rectocele underwent transperineal mesh repair. Mean age was found to be 50.35 ± 13.51 years, and mean parity 2.14 ± 1.47. Obstructed defecation symptoms significantly improved in both study groups, as measured by the Colorectal Anal Distress Inventory, Constipation Severity Instrument and Patient Assessment of Constipation-Symptoms scores. Minor postoperative complications including wound dehiscence (n = 3) and wound infection (n = 2) occurred in the transperineal mesh repair group.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy and transperineal mesh repair are efficient and comparable techniques in terms of improvement in constipation symptoms related to obstructed defecation syndrome. A selective distribution of patients with or without multicompartmental prolapse to one of the treatment arms might be the preferred strategy.
Association between muscle quality index and periodontal disease among American adults aged ≥ 30 years: a cross-sectional study and mediation analysis
Authors: Song Jukun , Wu Yadong , Ma Hong , Zhang Junmei
Published: November 2023

Objective

The muscle quality index (MQI) is a measurement of muscle quality that is directly related to overall health. There has been little study on the relationship between the muscle quality index and periodontitis in American people beyond 30 years. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the link between periodontitis and Muscle quality index (MQI) in older Americans.

Methods

Three thousand two hundred fifty-eight individuals (aged 30 to 59) who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014 were considered eligible for the cross-sectional investigation. A hand dynamometer was used to determine the handgrip strength (HGS). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was employed to calculate ASM (DXA). MQIArm was calculated by dividing the dominant hand’s HGS by the dominant arm’s ASM (in kg/kg). MQIApp was calculated by dividing the dominant hand’s HGS by the ASM (in kg/kg). MQItotal was calculated by dividing the sum of the dominant and non-dominant hands by the ASM (in kg/kg). To investigate the link between muscle quality index and periodontal disease, the weighted multivariable logistic regression models were used. Using generalized additive models, it was determined if a nonlinear connection existed. Then, we developed a two-piece linear regression model and calculated the inflection point using a recursive approach. A mediation study was performed to determine how much of the impact of MQItotal on periodontitis was mediated by potential variables.

Results

Three thousand two hundred fifty-eight participants from the United States were enrolled. The OR (95% CI) for the relationship between MQItotal and periodontitis in the regression model with fully adjusted variables was 0.69 (0.53–0.91), for the connection between MQIArm and periodontitis was 0.90 (0.84–0.97), and for the association between MQIApp and periodontitis was 0.49 (0.30–0.80). MQItotal and periodontitis were shown to have a J-shaped relationship with a change point of 3.64. Before the change point, the OR (95% CI) was 0.69 (0.58, 0.82). In the analysis of drinking and married status, the interaction was statistically significant. Analysis of mediation showed that alcohol use was responsible for 0.4% (0.10 to 1.2) of the effect of MQItotal on periodontitis.

Conclusion

In American adults aged over 30, the Muscle Quality Index (MQI) exhibited an independent negative correlation with moderate to severe periodontitis, demonstrating a J-shaped relationship. Furthermore, alcohol consumption may act as a mediator in the association between MQI and periodontitis.
Introducing a triage and Nurse on Call model in primary health care – a focus group study of health care staff’s experiences
Authors: Gelin Maria , Gesar Berit , Källberg Ann-Sofie , Ehrenberg Anna , Gustavsson Catharina
Published: November 2023

Background

With the increased demand for health care services and with simultaneous staff shortages, new work models are needed in primary health care. In November 2015, a Swedish primary health care centre introduced a work model consisting of a structured patient sorting system with triage and Nurse on Call. The aim of this study was to describe the staff’s experiences of introducing the triage and Nurse on Call model at the primary health care centre.

Methods

Five focus group discussions with staff (n = 39) were conducted 4 years after the introduction of the work model. Groups were divided by profession: medical secretaries, nursing assistants, physicians, primary health care nurses, and registered nurses. The transcribed text from the discussions was analysed using qualitative inductive content analysis.

Results

The analysis generated one overarching theme: The introduction of triage and Nurse on Call addresses changed preconditions in primary health care, but the work culture, organization, and acquisition of new knowledge are lagging behind. The overarching theme had five categories: (1) Changed preconditions in primary health care motivate new work models; (2) The triage and Nurse on Call model improves teamwork and may increase the quality of care; (3) Unclear purpose and vague leadership make introducing the work model difficult; (4) Difficulties to adopt the work model as it challenges professional autonomy; and (5) The triage and Nurse on Call model requires more knowledge and competence from nurses in primary health care.

Conclusions

This study contributes with knowledge about implications of a new work model in primary health care from the perspective of health care staff. The work model using triage and Nurse on Call in primary health care was perceived by participants to increase availability and optimize the use of resources. However, before introduction of new work models, it is important to identify barriers to and facilitators for successful improvements in the local health care context. Additional education for the health care staff is important if the transition is to be successful. Complementary skills and teamwork, supported by a facilitator seems important to ensure a well-prepared workforce.
Holothurian triterpene glycoside cucumarioside A2-2 induces macrophages activation and polarization in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Chuang Wen-Han , Pislyagin Evgeny , Lin Liang-Yu , Menchinskaya Ekaterina , Chernikov Oleg , Kozhemyako Valery , Gorpenchenko Tatiana , Manzhulo Igor , Chaikina Elena , Agafonova Irina , Silchenko Alexandra , Avilov Sergey , Stonik Valentin , Tzou Shey-Cherng , Aminin Dmitry , Wang Yun-Ming
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite intensive developments of adoptive T cell and NK cell therapies, the efficacy against solid tumors remains elusive. Our study demonstrates that macrophage-based cell therapy could be a potent therapeutic option against solid tumors.

Methods

To this end, we determine the effect of a natural triterpene glycoside, cucumarioside A2-2 (CA2-2), on the polarization of mouse macrophages into the M1 phenotype, and explore the antitumor activity of the polarized macrophage. The polarization of CA2-2-pretreated macrophages was analyzed by flow cytometry and confocal imaging. The anti-cancer activity of CA2-2 macrophages was evaluated against 4T1 breast cancer cells and EAC cells in vitro and syngeneic mouse model in vivo.

Results

Incubation of murine macrophages with CA2-2 led to polarization into the M1 phenotype, and the CA2-2-pretreated macrophages could selectively target and kill various types of cancer in vitro. Notably, loading near-infrared (NIR) fluorochrome-labeled nanoparticles, MnMEIO-mPEG-CyTE777, into macrophages substantiated that M1 macrophages can target and penetrate tumor tissues in vivo efficiently.

Conclusion

In this study, CA2-2-polarized M1 macrophages significantly attenuated tumor growth and prolonged mice survival in the syngeneic mouse models. Therefore, ex vivo CA2-2 activation of mouse macrophages can serve as a useful model for subsequent antitumor cellular immunotherapy developments.
LncRNA TDRKH-AS1 promotes breast cancer progression via the miR-134-5p/CREB1 axis
Authors: Ding Yuqin , Huang Yuting , Zhang Fanrong , Gong Lijie , Liang Chenlu , Ding Kaijing , He Xiangming , Ding Xiaowen , Chen Yiding
Published: November 2023

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is a prevalent malignancy with complex etiology and varied clinical behavior. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as key regulators in cancer progression, including BC. Among these, lncRNA TDRKH-AS1 has been implicated in several cancers, but its role in BC remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive investigation to elucidate the role of TDRKH-AS1 in BC. Clinical samples were collected from BC patients, and BC cell lines were cultured. Bioinformatics analysis using the starBase database was carried out to assess TDRKH-AS1 expression levels in BC tissue samples. Functional experiments, including knockdown, colony formation, CCK-8, Transwell, and wound-healing assays, were conducted to determine the role of TDRKH-AS1 in BC cell proliferation and invasion. Luciferase reporter and RIP assays were used to examine the interactions between TDRKH-AS1 and miR-134-5p. In addition, the downstream target gene of miR-134-5p, cAMP response element-binding protein 1 (CREB1), was identified and studied using various methods, including RT-qPCR, immunoprecipitation, and rescue experiments. In vivo experiments using mouse tumor xenograft models were conducted to examine the role of TDRKH-AS1 in BC tumorigenesis.

Results

TDRKH-AS1 was found to be significantly upregulated in BC tissues and cell lines. High TDRKH-AS1 expression correlated with advanced BC stages and worse patient outcomes. Knockdown of TDRKH-AS1 led to decreased BC cell proliferation and invasion. Mechanistically, TDRKH-AS1 acted as a sponge for miR-134-5p, thereby reducing the inhibitory effects of miR-134-5p on CREB1 expression. Overexpression of CREB1 partially rescued the effects of TDRKH-AS1 knockdown in BC cells. In vivo studies further confirmed the tumor-promoting role of TDRKH-AS1 in BC.

Conclusions

Our study unveiled a novel regulatory axis involving TDRKH-AS1, miR-134-5p, and CREB1 in BC progression. TDRKH-AS1 functioned as an oncogenic lncRNA by promoting BC cell proliferation and invasion through modulation of the miR-134-5p/CREB1 axis. These findings highlighted TDRKH-AS1 as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for BC treatment.
Preparation and in vitro evaluation of biological agents based on Zinc-laponite- curcumin incorporated in alginate hydrogel
Authors: Karimi Hajishoreh Negar , Dadashpour Mehdi , Akbarzadeh Abolfazl
Published: November 2023

Due to their outstanding structures and properties, three-dimensional (3D) hydrogels and nanoparticles have been widely studied and indicated a very high potential for medical, therapeutic, and diagnostic applications. However, hydrogels and nanoparticles systems have particular drawbacks that limit their widespread applications. In recent years, the incorporation of nanostructured systems into hydrogel has been developed as a novel way for the formation of new biomaterials with various functions to solve biomedical challenges. In this study, alginate-loaded Zinc- laponite—curcumin (Zn/La/Cur) nanocomposites were fabricated via ionic cross-linking. The prepared nanocomposite hydrogels were characterized via FTIR and FE-SEM. Moreover, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) was used to study the elements of the Zn/La/Cur nanocomposite. The NIH3T3 fibroblast cell line was utilized for the MTT assay to determine the cell viability of the fabricated alginate-loaded Zn/La/Cur nanocomposites. MTT results demonstrated that there was no evidence of toxicity in the samples. These outcomes suggest that applying Al/Zn/La/Cur nanocomposite as a biological agent could be a novel tissue engineering strategy for treating soft tissue disorders.

Graphical Abstract
Acute expression of human APOBEC3B in mice results in RNA editing and lethality
Authors: Alonso de la Vega Alicia , Temiz Nuri Alpay , Tasakis Rafail , Somogyi Kalman , Salgueiro Lorena , Zimmer Eleni , Ramos Maria , Diaz-Jimenez Alberto , Chocarro Sara , Fernández-Vaquero Mirian , Stefanovska Bojana , Reuveni Eli , Ben-David Uri , Stenzinger Albrecht , Poth Tanja , Heikenwälder Mathias , Papavasiliou Nina , Harris Reuben S. , Sotillo Rocio
Published: November 2023

Background

RNA editing has been described as promoting genetic heterogeneity, leading to the development of multiple disorders, including cancer. The cytosine deaminase APOBEC3B is implicated in tumor evolution through DNA mutation, but whether it also functions as an RNA editing enzyme has not been studied.

Results

Here, we engineer a novel doxycycline-inducible mouse model of human APOBEC3B-overexpression to understand the impact of this enzyme in tissue homeostasis and address a potential role in C-to-U RNA editing. Elevated and sustained levels of APOBEC3B lead to rapid alteration of cellular fitness, major organ dysfunction, and ultimately lethality in mice. Importantly, RNA-sequencing of mouse tissues expressing high levels of APOBEC3B identifies frequent UCC-to-UUC RNA editing events that are not evident in the corresponding genomic DNA.

Conclusions

This work identifies, for the first time, a new deaminase-dependent function for APOBEC3B in RNA editing and presents a preclinical tool to help understand the emerging role of APOBEC3B as a driver of carcinogenesis.
The epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori resistance in a university affiliated hospital: a comparison between two time periods—a cross-sectional design
Authors: Shmuely Haim , Shvartsman Yekaterina , Berdinstein Rita , Yahav Jacob , Melzer Ehud
Published: November 2023

Purpose

During the last few decades, the increased use of various types of antibiotics in the general population caused a significant change in regional Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) antibiotic resistance. Our aim is to study the changes in H. pylori resistance in patients who had undergone an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and susceptibility testing and found positive for H. pylori. The study was conducted in a university affiliated hospital between 2013–2020.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed on all consecutive patients who had undergone an EGD and tested positive for H. pylori at the Kaplan Medical Center, Israel. The study period was divided into two sub-periods: 2013–2016 and 2017–2020. Data on age, sex, comorbidities, previous treatments, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing for six antimicrobial agents were compared.

Results

The resistance rates of H. pylori to clarithromycin and dual resistance to clarithromycin and metronidazole were found significantly higher during the late period. Multivariable analysis showed that the later period, older age, and diabetes mellitus were independent predictors for antimicrobial resistance.

Conclusions

Our study has shown that there is an increasing resistance of H. pylori to clarithromycin and metronidazole while its susceptibility is unaffected with time to other antibiotics. More recent cross-sectional studies with larger samples are warranted in order to evaluate the changes in the resistance patterns of H. pylori to various antibiotics with time.
A common mechanism of detoxification for lambda-cyhalothrin and abamectin in Cydia pomonella
Authors: Ju Di , Hu Chao , Li Peirong , Gao Ping , Li Yuting , Yang Xueqing
Published: November 2023

Background

The primary method utilized by orchard owners to combat Cydia pomonella is the application of various chemical insecticides. However, this has resulted in the development of resistance. The resistance mechanisms to insecticides from different chemical classes are diverse but interconnected. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the commonalities in these mechanisms to effectively develop strategies for managing resistance.

Materials and methods

To determine whether target-site insensitivity to LCT and AM plays a role in resistance, the sequences of voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) and glutamate-gated chloride channel (GluCl) containing the mutation domains were detected. To validate whether similar mechanisms were involved in the detoxification process of lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) and abamectin (AM) at sublethal doses (specifically LD10 and LD30), cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450), glutathione S-transferases (GST), and carboxylesterases (CarE) activities were evaluated after insecticides exposure; synergistic experiments were conducted using piperonyl butoxide (PBO), diethyl maleate (DEM), and triphenyl phosphate (TPP) as inhibitors of P450, GST, and CarE respectively. RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) was performed to compare the expression levels of detoxification-related genes between susceptible (SS) and resistant strains.

Results

The best known target-site mutations caused by LCT and AM, including L1014F in VGSC and V263I, A309V, I321T, and G326E in GluCl were not occurred. We observed that PBO had a strong synergistic effect on LCT and AM, while DEM on LCT. The activities of detoxification enzymes increased after insecticide exposures, indicating that the detoxification of LCT was primarily carried out by P450 and CarE enzymes, while P450 and GST enzymes played a major role in the detoxification of AM. A total of 72 P450 genes and 75 CarE genes were identified in the C. pomonella transcriptome, with 43 of these genes (including 11 P450, 3 GST, 10 CarE, 11 ABC transporters, and 8 UDP-glycosyl transferases) being over-expressed in response to both insecticides Interestingly, ABC transporters were predominantly induced by AM treatment, while GST showed higher induction levels with LCT treatment. Furthermore, LCT-resistant strains of C. pomonella exhibited higher levels of induction of detoxification-related genes compared to susceptible strains.

Conclusion

The up-regulation of these detoxification genes is a common metabolic mechanism employed by C. pomonella to counteract the effects of insecticides, although the extent of gene expression change varies depending on the specific insecticide.
Christopher Alexander en los orígenes del abordaje colaborativo de la vivienda: la experiencia de Mexicali.
Authors: Palero Juan Santiago
Published: November 2023

Las intervenciones colaborativas sobre el hábitat suelen presentarse enfatizando sus aspectos novedosos, como si representaran una absoluta ruptura con respecto a las preexistencias. Esta estrategia de diferenciación, frente a un contexto marcado por el individualismo y la competencia, implica el riesgo de generar una constante sensación de amnesia y fugacidad que ignora la profundidad de sus orígenes. Para brindar anclaje histórico y densidad conceptual a estas intervenciones colaborativas, se propone reconstruir sus raíces conceptuales indagando en el aporte de la participación en arquitectura de vivienda, como una de sus principales vertientes. Con ese objetivo, se recuperan las estrategias desplegadas por el equipo de Christopher Alexander en el abordaje de un proyecto que buscaba contrarrestar el déficit habitacional de una ciudad latinoamericana en vertiginoso crecimiento: el conjunto de viviendas de Mexicali, en Baja California, México. A través de una revisión bibliográfica que combina la producción teórica de este autor –recientemente fallecido– en libros y artículos, junto a entrevistas y documentos que remiten al estado actual del conjunto, se sintetizan aciertos y puntos críticos de la intervención para rastrear su continuidad en el contexto actual de la vivienda liderada por la comunidad, y en particular en la Producción Social del Hábitat.
La vivienda informal consolidada como hábitat colaborativo: el caso de Santa María de las Lomas, Guayaquil, Ecuador.
Authors: Fernández-Casas Ignacio de Teresa , Mora Alvarado Enrique , Viteri Chávez Filiberto
Published: November 2023

La reciente pandemia ha señalado objetivos para nuestro hábitat a nivel global: cómo hacer un uso compartido de nuestras viviendas, la calle, o la azotea, o cómo trabajar y producir desde casa. Estas cuestiones, puestas sobre la mesa tras la actual crisis, han sido abordadas desde hace décadas en contextos de crisis continua, como es el caso de la vivienda informal. Los bajos e irregulares ingresos fuerzan en estos casos a convivir bajo el mismo techo a varios núcleos familiares, demandando un uso flexible y productivo de la vivienda. En contraste con la rigidez de la vivienda, es el conjunto de objetos de su interior el encargado de aportar esta flexibilidad, al estar formado por un sistema de elementos capaz de transformarse al ritmo de las familias. El artículo analiza la respuesta que dan las viviendas, a escala de casa y de barrio, a esta necesidad de cohabitar en condiciones de confinamiento, en un barrio de vivienda informal ya consolidada de la ciudad de Guayaquil, Santa María de las Lomas. Para ello se analizan, a través de varios casos de estudio, las transformaciones que sufren las viviendas para permitir la convivencia e interacción entre sus habitantes, comparando el uso que hacen de la casa y de su entorno próximo a lo largo del día los diferentes núcleos familiares, y la transformación paralela que experimenta la vivienda. Se han realizado entrevistas a los usuarios y se han dibujado mapas de actividad del interior y exterior de las viviendas, que permiten identificar un hábitat en el que la casa está formada por un sistema de objetos, cuya capacidad para reagruparse en diferentes conjuntos, incorporar o quitar elementos, y desplazarlos dentro y fuera de la casa, permite aliarse con las transformaciones que demandan las familias
Decididamente, sí: Gaia forma parte del cosmograma que necesitamos.
Authors: Riechmann Fernández Jorge
Published: November 2023

Un reciente artículo del profesor Luis Arenas se preguntaba si, para la inflexión civilizatoria que necesitamos, Gaia debería formar parte del nuevo cosmograma (o concepción del mundo) que ha de ir esbozándose. El diálogo con ese texto permite revisar la Teoría Gaia, la concepción simbiogenética de Lynn Margulis y otros avances recientes en ciencia. Se argumenta que el cuestionamiento (conveniente) del antropocentrismo no implica ignorar ni menoscabar la singularidad humana. Y se termina defendiendo que sí, Gaia debe formar parte del nuevo cosmograma que necesitamos