bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mediating effect of suicidal ideation in the association between child abuse and premenstrual syndrome among female adults
Authors: Kfoury Maya , Malaeb Diana , Moubarak Perla , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Hallit Souheil , Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Obeid Sahar
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Premenstrual symptoms encompass a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that cyclically occur before menstruation. Childhood abuse has been associated with subsequent mental health challenges, yet its relationship with exacerbating premenstrual symptoms remains an understudied area. Furthermore, suicidal ideation often emerges from traumatic backgrounds such as child abuse, creating another layer of complexity. Given the rising suicide rates in Lebanon, and the concurrent increase in reported child abuse cases, this research focuses on the role of suicidal ideation as a mediator between child abuse and premenstrual syndrome.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 915 female university students in Lebanon. Participants completed an online questionnaire encompassing demographic details, health lifestyle, the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST), Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), and Child Abuse Self Report Scale (CASRS-12). The mediation analysis was conducted using PROCESS MACRO v3.4 model 4; three pathways derived from this analysis: pathway A from the independent variable to the mediator, pathway B from the mediator to the dependent variable, Pathway C indicating the direct effect from the independent to the dependent variable.

Results

The results of the mediation analysis showed that suicidal ideation mediated the association between all types of child abuse and the presence of PMS. Higher psychological (Beta = 0.21; p < 0.001), neglect (Beta = 0.02; p = 0.017), physical (Beta = 0.19; p < 0.001) and sexual (Beta = 0.20, p < 0.001) child abuse were significantly associated with higher suicidal ideation, which was significantly associated with the presence of PMS (Beta = 0.38, p = 0.001; Beta = 0.57, p < 0.001; Beta = 0.45, p < 0.001; and Beta = 0.50, p < 0.001) respectively. Finally, higher psychological (Beta = 0.17, p < 0.001), physical (Beta = 0.11, p = 0.024), but not sexual (Beta = 0.07, p = 0.198) child abuse was directly and significantly associated with the presence of PMS, whereas higher neglect (Beta = -0.06, p = 0.007) was significantly associated lower odds of having PMS.

Conclusion

This study highlights the mediating role of suicidal ideation in the complex association between different types of childhood abuse and premenstrual symptoms. The findings emphasize the need for trauma-informed care and tailored interventions to address the diverse impact of these factors. Recognizing the intricate relationships between child abuse, suicidal ideation, and PMS can aid healthcare providers in comprehensively addressing young women’s mental and reproductive well-being. Trauma-informed care, tailored interventions and awareness of potential connections between childhood maltreatment are essential in managing these complex challenges.
PRIME-nurse practitioner competency model validation and criterion based OSCE rubric interrater reliability
Authors: D’Aoust Rita , Slone Sarah E. , Russell Nancy , Budhathoki Chakra , Ling Catherine
Published: February 2024

The PRIME-NP (Professional-Reporter-Interpreter-Manager-Educator/Evaluation-Nurse Practitioner) Model is adapted from the RIME (Reporter-Interpreter-Manager-Educator) model used in medical education to guide medical student and resident education. The Delphi technique was used to validate the PRIME-NP Model. After two rounds of review by a group of experts in NP curriculum, the model was determined to be valid based on expert consensus. Agreement percent increase from the first round to the second round in all categories. Interrater reliability (IRR) was assessed using interclass correlation after instrument validation was completed for each of the five levels of the PRIME-NP model. Overall, the IRR of the instrument was found to be acceptable with some notable exceptions. No variance was noted in professional behaviors at any level. Variance was increased in management and educator/evaluator behaviors in higher/later course levels. The PRIME-NP Model and PRIME-NP OSCE Rubric is a valid and reliable instrument to assess NP student progression in objective structured clinical examinations. This instrument has the potential for adaptation for use in other types of health sciences education and settings.
The implementation of disaster preparedness training integration model based on Public Health Nursing (ILATGANA-PHN) to increase community capacity in natural disaster-prone areas
Authors: Sofyana Haris , Ibrahim Kusman , Afriandi Irvan , Herawati Erna
Published: February 2024

Indonesia is at high risk of disasters. Therefore, nursing is expected to play a role in disaster risk reductions in communities. This study aimed to implement the Disaster Preparedness Training Integration Model based on Public Health Nursing (ILATGANA-PHN) to increase the Capacity of community in natural disaster-prone areas by assessing the preparedness level of families and communities in disaster-prone areas. The research method was developed in two stages, including the model preparation stage and the model implementation stage. This research was in the 2nd stage, namely the model impelementation stage. The research design, at the model implementation stage, used the one-sample pre-post test without control group design. The respondents were assessed before and after the ILATGANA-PHN training intervention. The sample size was calculated using the sample size calculation formula for the experimental research design without controls. The samples of the study were 78 people. The result of the research described the ILATGANA-PHN training concepts, including the instrument, curriculum, process, module, and maintenance patterns for the training process. The intervention had a significant effect on increasing the independent preparedness of the people in Kendeng Community, Sugih Mukti Village (ƿ 0.000 ≤ 0.005) in terms of four preparedness parameters, namely knowledge and attitudes about disasters (KA), disaster preparedness plans (PE), disaster warnings (WS), and resource mobilization community (RMC). Nurses have the opportunity to take responsibilities for empowering the community capacity in the disaster area through the implementation of ILATGANA-PHN training. The integrated training model for disaster preparedness based on Public Health Nursing (ILATGANA-PHN) is effective in increasing the community capacity, especially in disaster managements, in disaster-prone areas.
Prevalence of pressure injury on the medical wards of public general hospitals in Kuwait: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: ALFadhalah Talal , Lari Marjan , Al Salem Gheed , Ali Shaimaa , Al Kharji Hamad , Elamir Hossam
Published: February 2024

Background

Pressure injury is a severe problem that can significantly impact a patient’s health, quality of life, and healthcare expenses. The prevalence of pressure injuries is a widely used clinical indicator of patient safety and quality of care. This study aims to address the research gap that exists on this topic in Kuwait by investigating the prevalence of pressure injuries and preventive measures on the medical wards of the country’s public general hospitals.

Methods

A cross-sectional research design was adopted to measure the point prevalence of pressure injuries on 54 medical wards in the public general hospitals. Data, including variables pertaining to hospitals, patients, pressure injuries and preventive practices, were collected using an online form. The data were processed and analysed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 23 (α level = 0.05). Analysis provided an overview of patient, pressure injury characteristics and preventive measures, and the relationships between the patient and pressure injury characteristics and the prevalence of pressure injuries. A model for predicting the determinants of pressure injury prevalence was constructed from a linear regression analysis.

Results

The mean national prevalence of pressure injury was 17.6% (95% CI: 11.3–23.8). Purely community-acquired pressure injuries represent the majority of pressure injuries nationally (58.1%). Regarding preventive measures, “pressure injury assessment on admission” has been provided to 65.5% of patients. Correlation analysis revealed that the only statistically significant correlation with the prevalence of hospital-acquired pressure injury was “pressure injury assessment on admission”, which was strongly negative (ρ = −0.857). Therefore, this was the only variable included in the regression analysis as a predictor of pressure injury prevalence (Beta = 0.839). The results showed many statistically significant differences between hospitals with respect to the variables studied.

Conclusions

The national pressure injury prevalence is high compared to the global rate. The higher percentage of purely community-acquired pressure injuries requires particular attention. Many risk factors for the development of pressure injuries are public health concerns, and effective mitigating strategies are needed. Further research is required to assess the knowledge, attitude, and behaviour of nurses with respect to pressure injuries, and to evaluate preventive and management practices.
Co-designing care for multimorbidity: a systematic review
Authors: Sumner Jennifer , Ng Celeste Wen Ting , Teo Kimberly Ee Lin , Peh Adena Li Tyin , Lim Yee Wei
Published: February 2024

Background

The co-design of health care enables patient-centredness by partnering patients, clinicians and other stakeholders together to create services.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of co-designed health interventions for people living with multimorbidity and assessed (a) their effectiveness in improving health outcomes, (b) the co-design approaches used and (c) barriers and facilitators to the co-design process with people living with multimorbidity. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus and PsycINFO between 2000 and March 2022. Included experimental studies were quality assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool (ROB-2 and ROBINS-I).

Results

We screened 14,376 reports, with 13 reports meeting the eligibility criteria. Two reported health and well-being outcomes: one randomised clinical trial (n = 134) and one controlled cohort (n = 1933). Outcome measures included quality of life, self-efficacy, well-being, anxiety, depression, functional status, healthcare utilisation and mortality. Outcomes favouring the co-design interventions compared to control were minimal, with only 4 of 17 outcomes considered beneficial. Co-design approaches included needs assessment/ideation (12 of 13), prototype (11 of 13), pilot testing (5 of 13) (i.e. focus on usability) and health and well-being evaluations (2 of 13). Common challenges to the co-design process include poor stakeholder interest, passive participation, power imbalances and a lack of representativeness in the design group. Enablers include flexibility in approach, smaller group work, advocating for stakeholders’ views and commitment to the process or decisions made.

Conclusions

In this systematic review of co-design health interventions, we found that few projects assessed health and well-being outcomes, and the observed health and well-being benefits were minimal. The intensity and variability in the co-design approaches were substantial, and challenges were evident. Co-design aided the design of novel services and interventions for those with multimorbidity, improving their relevance, usability and acceptability. However, the clinical benefits of co-designed interventions for those with multimorbidity are unclear.
IGFBP3 induces PD-L1 expression to promote glioblastoma immune evasion
Authors: Zhao Leilei , Wang Yudi , Mu Peizheng , Zhang Xuehua , Qi Ruomei , Zhang Yurui , Zhang He , Zhu Xiao , Dong Zhouyan , Dong Yucui
Published: February 2024

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) characterized by immune escape is the most malignant primary brain tumors, which has strong immunosuppressive effect. Programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) is a recognized immunosuppressive member on the surface of tumor cells, and plays a crucial role in immune evasion of tumors. Actually, little is known about the regulation of PD-L1 expression in GBM. Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) is upregulated in GBM and is related to poor patient prognosis. However, it remains unclear whether IGFBP3 plays a role in the regulation of PD-L1 expression in GBM.

Methods

The role of IGFBP3 in the glioma immune microenvironment was investigated using the CIBERSORT algorithm. The correlation between IGFBP3 and PD-L1 expression was analyzed using TCGA and CGGA databases. QRT-PCR, immunoblotting and RNA-seq were used to examine the regulatory effect of IGFBP3 on PD-L1 expression. Co-culture assay, cell counting kit (CCK-8), qRT-PCR, ELISA and flow cytometry were performed to explore the function of IGFBP3 in inducing immunosuppression. The biological role of IGFBP3 was verified using immunohistochemical, immunofluorescence and mice orthotopic tumor model.

Results

In this study, we analyzed immune cells infiltration in gliomas and found that IGFBP3 may be associated with an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Then, by analyzing TCGA and CGGA databases, our results showed that IGFBP3 and PD-L1 expression were positively correlated in GBM patients, but not in LGG patients. In vitro experiments conducted on different GBM cell lines revealed that the overexpression of IGFBP3 led to an increase in PD-L1 expression, which was reversible upon knockdown IGFBP3. Mechanistically, IGFBP3 activated the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, leading to an increase in PD-L1 expression. Additionally, co-culture experiments results showed IGFBP3 overexpression induced upregulation of PD-L1 expression promoted apoptosis in Jurkat cells, and this effect was blocked by IGFBP3 antibody and PDL-1 inhibitors. Importantly, in vivo experiments targeting IGFBP3 suppressed tumor growth and significantly prolonged the survival of mice.

Conclusions

This research demonstrated IGFBP3 is a novel regulator for PD-L1 expression in GBM, and identified a new mechanism by which IGFBP3 regulates immune evasion through PD-L1, suggesting that IGFBP3 may be a potential novel target for GBM therapy.
The causal relationship between human blood metabolites and the risk of visceral obesity: a mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Wang Zhaoxiang , Yang Qichao
Published: February 2024

Background

We aimed to explore the causal relationship between blood metabolites and the risk of visceral obesity, as measured by visceral adipose tissue (VAT).

Methods

Summary statistics for 486 blood metabolites and total, as well as sex-stratified, MRI-derived VAT measurements, adjusted for body mass index (BMI) and height, were collected from previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS). A two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) design was used. Comprehensive evaluation was further conducted, including sensitivity analysis, linkage disequilibrium score (LDSC) regression, Steiger test, and metabolic pathway analysis.

Results

After multiple testing correction, arachidonate (20:4n6) has been implicated in VAT accumulation (β = 0.35, 95%CI:0.18–0.52, P < 0.001; FDR = 0.025). Additionally, several blood metabolites were identified as potentially having causal relationship (FDR < 0.10). Among them, lysine (β = 0.67, 95%CI: 0.28–1.06, P < 0.001; FDR = 0.074), proline (β = 0.30, 95%CI:0.13–0.48, P < 0.001; FDR = 0.082), valerate (β = 0.50, 95%CI:0.23–0.78, P < 0.001, FDR = 0.091) are associated with an increased risk of VAT accumulation. On the other hand, glycine (β=-0.21, 95%CI: -0.33–0.09), P < 0.001, FDR = 0.076) have a protective effect against VAT accumulation. Most blood metabolites showed consistent trends between different sexes. Multivariable MR analysis demonstrated the effect of genetically predicted arachidonate (20:4n6) and proline on VAT remained after accounting for BMI and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). There is no evidence of heterogeneity, pleiotropy, and reverse causality.

Conclusion

Our MR findings suggest that these metabolites may serve as biomarkers, as well as for future mechanistic exploration and drug target selection of visceral obesity.
Understanding the influence of stakeholders on the implementation of front-of-pack nutrition labelling in the absence of public debate: the case of Portugal
Authors: Fialon Morgane , Nabec Lydiane , Julia Chantal
Published: February 2024

In the context of the European Commission’s proposal for the harmonization of front-of-pack nutrition labels (FoPLs) across the European Union scheduled for 2023, Portugal’s position on the preferred format to be adopted remains unclear. Our study aims to (1) describe the context of the political decision regarding FoPL’s implementation in Portugal, (2) identify and characterize the actors involved in the debate and (3) evaluate their influence in the decision-making process and their position on the various formats of FoPLs considered. A document review complemented by a qualitative study with eight experts revealed the actors involved in the implementation of FoPLs in Portugal. The stakeholder theory was used to qualify their level of influence on the decision. To complement the experts’ analysis, the views of 1014 Portuguese consumers on stakeholders’ influence were collected via an online questionnaire. The results show a strong mobilization of the Portuguese Ministry of Health on the issue through the production of several technical and scientific reports. The background of the political decision related to FoPLs in Portugal highlights the commitment of some influential stakeholders in favour of the traffic light format, including one of the major Portuguese retailers, Continente. Nevertheless, in the face of public support for the Nutri-Score from a growing number of actors, Portugal has not yet adopted a specific format, partly due to some resistance from the agricultural sector. Portugal, by lack of consensus and agenda setting, is now awaiting formal harmonization of FoPLs by the European Commission. This study provides useful insights for public policy actors when promoting interventional measures.
A successful endovascular aortic repair of aortoesophageal fistula following esophagectomy: a case report and literature review
Authors: Li Jina , Hu Yan , Liu Wenliang , Tang Jingqun , Zhu Song , Zeng Chao
Published: February 2024

Background

Aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) is an extremely rare and highly fatal complication leading to a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Successful management of AEF after esophagectomy for esophageal carcinoma has rarely been reported in the literature.

Case presentation

Here we present a rare case of a 44-year-old female with complications of AEF after esophagectomy for esophageal carcinoma, mainly presented as vomiting of blood. Both computed tomographic and computed tomography angiography of the chest showed bilateral pleural effusion and atelectasis, while gastroscopy showed large gastrointestinal bleeding. Emergency surgery was performed that included the removal of the mediastinal abscess, left lower pulmonary wedge resection, and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), followed by supportive treatment. The surgery went successful, and the patient was followed up for 1 year after discharge and showed good recovery. We also reviewed previous literature on the history, causes, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of AEF after esophagectomy for esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Conclusions

In our case, thoracotomy combined with TEVAR was effective in treating AEF after esophagectomy for esophageal adenocarcinoma. This case provides successful experiences for clinical diagnosis and treatment of AEF after esophagectomy for esophageal carcinoma.
Real-world evidence for coverage determination of treatments for rare diseases
Authors: Dayer Victoria W. , Drummond Michael F. , Dabbous Omar , Toumi Mondher , Neumann Peter , Tunis Sean , Teich Nelson , Saleh Shadi , Persson Ulf , von der Schulenburg Johann-Matthias Graf , Malone Daniel C. , Salimullah Tay , Sullivan Sean D.
Published: February 2024

Health technology assessment (HTA) decisions for pharmaceuticals are complex and evolving. New rare disease treatments are often approved more quickly through accelerated approval schemes, creating more uncertainties about clinical evidence and budget impact at the time of market entry. The use of real-world evidence (RWE), including early coverage with evidence development, has been suggested as a means to support HTA decisions for rare disease treatments. However, the collection and use of RWE poses substantial challenges. These challenges are compounded when considered in the context of treatments for rare diseases. In this paper, we describe the methodological challenges to developing and using prospective and retrospective RWE for HTA decisions, for rare diseases in particular. We focus attention on key elements of study design and analyses, including patient selection and recruitment, appropriate adjustment for confounding and other sources of bias, outcome selection, and data quality monitoring. We conclude by offering suggestions to help address some of the most vexing challenges. The role of RWE in coverage and pricing determination will grow. It is, therefore, necessary for researchers, manufacturers, HTA agencies, and payers to ensure that rigorous and appropriate scientific principles are followed when using RWE as part of decision-making.
The epigenetic downregulation of LncGHRLOS mediated by RNA m6A methylase ZCCHC4 promotes colorectal cancer tumorigenesis
Authors: Chen Ke , Zhang Jingcheng , Meng Lei , Kong Lingshang , Lu Ming , Wang Zhengguang , Wang Wenbin
Published: February 2024

Background

m6A modification is currently recognized as a major driver of RNA function that maintains cancer cell homeostasis. Long non-coding (Lnc) RNAs control cell proliferation and play an important role in the occurrence and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). ZCCHC4 is a newly discovered m6A methyltransferase whose role and mechanism in tumors have not yet been elucidated.

Methods

The EpiQuik m6A RNA methylation kit was used to detect the level of total RNA m6A in six types of digestive tract tumors. The Kaplan-Meier method and receiver operating characteristic curve were used to evaluate the prognostic and diagnostic value of the newly discovered m6A methyltransferase, ZCCHC4, in CRC. The effects on CRC growth in vitro and in vivo were studied using gain- and loss-of-function experiments. The epigenetic mechanisms underlying ZCCHC4 upregulation in CRC were studied using RIP, MeRIP-seq, RNA pull-down, and animal experiments.

Results

We reported that the ZCCHC4-LncRNAGHRLOS-KDM5D axis regulates the growth of CRC in vitro and in vivo. We found that ZCCHC4 was upregulated in primary CRC samples and could predict adverse clinical outcomes in patients with CRC. Mechanistically, ZCCHC4 downregulated LncRNAGHRLOS to promote CRC tumorigenesis. As a downstream molecule of LncRNAGHRLOS, KDM5D directly controls CRC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the ZCCHC4 axis contributes to the tumorigenesis and progression of CRC and that ZCCHC4 may be a potential biomarker for this malignancy.
Personalised versus standard text message prompts for increasing trial participant response to telephone follow-up: an embedded randomised controlled retention trial
Authors: Herbert Esther , Papaioannou Diana , Loban Amanda , Totton Nikki , Hyslop Marie , Bolt Robert , Deery Christopher
Published: February 2024

Background

Improving retention within randomised controlled trials is important. The effectiveness of different strategies can be assessed using a Study Within A Trial (SWAT). Previous research has shown personalised text message reminders improve clinic attendance rates; however, the results are mixed on improving postal questionnaire return. This SWAT aims to assess whether personalised text message reminders improve completion rates for scheduled telephone follow-ups.

Methods

This SWAT is a two-arm, multi-centre randomised controlled trial with equal allocation. The host trial was the Melatonin for Anxiety prior to General anaesthesia In Children trial (ISRCTN 18296119), where the child’s caregiver was to answer a scheduled telephone follow-up 14 days post-surgery; participants for the SWAT were therefore the caregiver. Text messages were sent 24–48 h before the scheduled call and the personalised version contained the first name of the caregiver which was omitted in the non-personalised version. The primary outcome was questionnaire completion rate, defined as the proportion of caregivers successfully contacted, and completed any of the questionnaires, over the telephone within the follow-up window (day 14 + 7 days).

Results

The SWAT included 100 of the 110 (91%) participants randomised into the host trial. Randomisation within the SWAT was equal between non-personalised (n = 50) and personalised (n = 50) interventions. The overall questionnaire response rate was 73% with a difference between the two interventions of 68% in the non-personalised text message arm and 78% in the personalised text message arm. The adjusted absolute risk difference was 7.1% (95% confidence interval = −10.2%, 24.4%). There was no difference in either the time to response or the number of contact attempts between the two interventions.

Conclusions

There is some evidence that personalised text messages could be effective at increasing response rates when data is collected via telephone and in a population of caregivers for paediatric trial participants. However, similar SWATs have shown mixed results. Given the low-cost and low risks associated with personalising text message reminders, this SWAT could be implemented easily in other RCTs scheduling telephone follow-up appointments.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN 18296119, SWAT 35 (MRC Northern Ireland Network for Trials Methodology Network).
Exosomes derived from BMSCs enhance diabetic wound healing through circ-Snhg11 delivery
Authors: Tang Tao , Chen Linyi , Zhang Ming , Wang Chuang , Du Xiaolong , Ye Shenglin , Li Xiaoqiang , Chen Hong , Hu Nan
Published: February 2024

Background

Exosomes (Exos) generated from bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are elucidated to enhance cutaneous wound healing in mice models of diabetes mellitus (DM). While underlying mechanisms remain unknown.

Methods

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to examine changes in circRNA expression levels following Exo treatment. Luciferase assays were used to determine the interactions between RNAs. Immunofluorescence staining was used to examine reactive oxygen species (ROS) in endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) cultured in high glucose (HG) conditions. Therapeutic effects regarding Exos were also examined by immunofluorescence.

Results

We found that Exo treatment enhanced cutaneous wound healing significantly. NGS indicated that circ-Snhg11 was involved in Exo-mediated tissue repairing. Downregulation of circ-Snhg11 decreased Exo-mediated therapy responses during wound healing in diabetic mouse. Our luciferase reporter data confirmed that SLC7A11 and miR-144-3p were circ-Snhg11 downstream targets. miR-144-3p overexpression or SLC7A11 knockdown altered the protective effects of circ-Snhg11 upon EPCs exposed to HG conditions. Upregulation of circ-Snhg11 incremented therapy effects of Exo treatment during wound healing in DM mice through enhanced angiogenesis along with a reduction in GPX4-mediated ferroptosis.

Conclusions

circ-Snhg11 in BMSC-Exos enhanced SLC7A11/GPX4-mediated anti-ferroptosis signals via miR-144-3p sponging resulting in enhanced diabetic wound healing and improved angiopoiesis.
olf413 an octopamine biogenesis pathway gene is required for axon growth and pathfinding during embryonic nervous system development in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Ramya Ravindrakumar , Venkatesh Chikkate Ramakrishnappa , Shyamala Baragur Venkatanarayanasetty
Published: February 2024

Objective

Neurotransmitters have been extensively studied as neural communication molecules. Genetic associations discovered, and indirect intervention studies in Humans and mammals have led to a general proposition that neurotransmitters have a role in structuring of neuronal network during development. olf413 is a Drosophila gene annotated as coding for dopamine beta-monooxygenase enzyme with a predicted function in octopaminergic pathway. The biological function of this gene is very little worked out. In this study we investigate the requirement of olf413 gene function for octopamine biogenesis and developmental patterning of embryonic nervous system.

Result

In our study we have used the newly characterized neuronal specific allele olf413SG1.1, and the gene disruption strain olf413MI02014 to dissect out the function of olf413. olf413 has an enhancer activity as depicted by reporter GFP expression, in the embryonic ventral nerve cord, peripheral nervous system and the somatic muscle bundles. Homozygous loss of function mutants show reduced levels of octopamine, and this finding supports the proposed function of the gene in octopamine biogenesis. Further, loss of function of olf413 causes embryonic lethality. FasII staining of these embryos reveal a range of phenotypes in the central and peripheral motor nerves, featuring axonal growth, pathfinding, branching and misrouting defects. Our findings are important as they implicate a key functional requirement of this gene in precise axonal patterning events, a novel developmental role imparted for an octopamine biosynthesis pathway gene in structuring of embryonic nervous system.
Development of the hyolaryngeal architecture in horseshoe bats: insights into the evolution of the pulse generation for laryngeal echolocation
Authors: Nojiri Taro , Takechi Masaki , Furutera Toshiko , Brualla Nicolas L. M. , Iseki Sachiko , Fukui Dai , Tu Vuong Tan , Meguro Fumiya , Koyabu Daisuke
Published: February 2024

Background

The hyolaryngeal apparatus generates biosonar pulses in the laryngeally echolocating bats. The cartilage and muscles comprising the hyolarynx of laryngeally echolocating bats are morphologically modified compared to those of non-bat mammals, as represented by the hypertrophied intrinsic laryngeal muscle. Despite its crucial contribution to laryngeal echolocation, how the development of the hyolarynx in bats differs from that of other mammals is poorly documented. The genus Rhinolophus is one of the most sophisticated laryngeal echolocators, with the highest pulse frequency in bats. The present study provides the first detailed description of the three-dimensional anatomy and development of the skeleton, cartilage, muscle, and innervation patterns of the hyolaryngeal apparatus in two species of rhinolophid bats using micro-computed tomography images and serial tissue sections and compares them with those of laboratory mice. Furthermore, we measured the peak frequency of the echolocation pulse in active juvenile and adult individuals to correspond to echolocation pulses with hyolaryngeal morphology at each postnatal stage.

Results

We found that the sagittal crests of the cricoid cartilage separated the dorsal cricoarytenoid muscle in horseshoe bats, indicating that this unique morphology may be required to reinforce the repeated closure movement of the glottis during biosonar pulse emission. We also found that the cricothyroid muscle is ventrally hypertrophied throughout ontogeny, and that the cranial laryngeal nerve has a novel branch supplying the hypertrophied region of this muscle. Our bioacoustic analyses revealed that the peak frequency shows negative allometry against skull growth, and that the volumetric growth of all laryngeal cartilages is correlated with the pulse peak frequency.

Conclusions

The unique patterns of muscle and innervation revealed in this study appear to have been obtained concomitantly with the acquisition of tracheal chambers in rhinolophids and hipposiderids, improving sound intensity during laryngeal echolocation. In addition, significant protrusion of the sagittal crest of the cricoid cartilage and the separated dorsal cricoarytenoid muscle may contribute to the sophisticated biosonar in this laryngeally echolocating lineage. Furthermore, our bioacoustic data suggested that the mineralization of these cartilages underpins the ontogeny of echolocation pulse generation. The results of the present study provide crucial insights into how the anatomy and development of the hyolaryngeal apparatus shape the acoustic diversity in bats.
Internuclear ophthalmoplegia as a presentation of procedural stroke: a case report
Authors: Sirisreetreerux Norachai , Ponglikitmongkol Krongkamol
Published: February 2024

Background

Cardiac catheterization and endovascular procedures are extensively used in modern medicine, and procedural stroke is one of the major complications that the catheterization laboratory team may face in their everyday work. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of procedural stroke is crucial to ensuring appropriate management. We herein report a case of internuclear ophthalmoplegia that caused blurred vision, diplopia, and dizziness on lateral gaze as an unusual presentation of procedural stroke.

Case presentation

A 60-year-old Thai woman underwent right partial colectomy and was diagnosed with stage IV diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Pre-chemotherapy echocardiography revealed mild left ventricular systolic dysfunction, and she therefore underwent diagnostic catheterization. Coronary angiography revealed normal coronary arteries, leading to a diagnosis of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. After the procedure, she immediately developed dizziness and diplopia. During the right lateral gaze, she exhibited impaired adduction of the left eye and horizontal nystagmus of the right eye. A diagnosis of left internuclear ophthalmoplegia was made. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a tiny area exhibiting characteristics of an acute infarct in the left paramedian midbrain, including the left medial longitudinal fasciculus, which explained the clinical picture. Another region of restricted diffusion indicating an acute infarct was detected in the right inferior cerebellar hemisphere. Magnetic resonance angiography revealed no significant cerebral artery disease. The patient achieved full neurological recovery 6 weeks after symptom onset.

Conclusion

This report describes an uncommon presentation of procedural stroke that is likely to be misdiagnosed, especially by medical staff unfamiliar with internuclear ophthalmoplegia. Despite the good prognosis of internuclear ophthalmoplegia, appropriate stroke care is crucial in patients with procedural stroke because of the risk of multiple brain infarcts.
Blind extraction of guitar effects through blind system inversion and neural guitar effect modeling
Authors: Hinrichs Reemt , Gerkens Kevin , Lange Alexander , Ostermann Jörn
Published: February 2024

Audio effects are an ubiquitous tool in music production due to the interesting ways in which they can shape the sound of music. Guitar effects, the subset of all audio effects focusing on guitar signals, are commonly used in popular music to shape the guitar sound to fit specific genres or to create more variety within musical compositions. Automatic extraction of guitar effects and their parameter settings, with the aim to copy a target guitar sound, has been previously investigated, where artificial neural networks first determine the effect class of a reference signal and subsequently the parameter settings. These approaches require a corresponding guitar effect implementation to be available. In general, for very close sound matching, additional research regarding effect implementations is necessary. In this work, we present a different approach to circumvent these issues. We propose blind extraction of guitar effects through a combination of blind system inversion and neural guitar effect modeling. That way, an immediately usable, blind copy of the target guitar effect is obtained. The proposed method is tested with the phaser, softclipping and slapback delay effect. Listening tests with eight subjects indicate excellent quality of the blind copies, i.e., little to no difference to the reference guitar effect.
LncRNA LBX2-AS1 promotes proliferation and migratory capacity of clear cell renal cell carcinoma through mitophagy
Authors: Wang Bao , Wei Yuang , Han Tian , Ji Peng , Miao Haoqi , Wu Xiangzheng , Qian Jian , Shao Pengfei
Published: February 2024

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been extensively investigated in the field of cancer, among which, lncRNA ladybird homeobox 2-antisense RNA 1 (LBX2-AS1) has been demonstrated to exert carcinogenic effects on a variety of malignancies. However, the biological functions of LBX2-AS1 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) have not been explicitly elucidated.

Methods

Arraystar lncRNA chip and qRT-PCR verify the expression of LncRNA LBX2-AS1 in ccRCC. CCK-8 assay and cell cloning assay were used to assess the proliferative capacity of ccRCC cells. Migration abilities were quantified by scratch assay and transwell assay. Potential molecular signaling pathways were determined by high-throughput whole transcriptomics analysis. WB analysis was performed to validate the relationship between LBX2-AS1 and key molecules of mitophagy pathway. The effect of LBX2-AS1 on mitophagy was observed by laser confocal microscopy. Rescue experiments further validated the role of downstream gene FOXO3A in the LBX2-AS1 signaling pathway. Finally, the authentic effect of LBX2-AS1 was verified in vivo.

Results

LncRNA LBX2-AS1 was over expressed in ccRCC tissues and could enhance the proliferation and migration of ccRCC cells. Autophagic pathway was identified as a possible mechanism involved in the oncogenic effect of LBX2-AS1. Mitophagy levels were observed in LBX2-AS1 low-expressing cells through laser confocal microscopy. Knockdown of LBX2-AS1 significantly elevated mitophagy levels as observed using laser confocal microscopy and led to FOXOA3 decreasing in and BNIP3L and LC3 enrichment. Meanwhile, LBX2-AS1 knocking down dampened the proliferation of ccRCC cells in vivo.
Associations between a cash voucher intervention, food consumption, and coping strategies in Somali food-insecure populations
Authors: Fang Theresa , Tran Andy , Oranga Beryl , Kopper Ryan , Kang Yunhee
Published: February 2024

Background

This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the association between cash voucher assistance on building community resiliency and improving food security among 1371 households (HH) living in northern and southern regions of Somalia. The secondary data analysis used endline data from participants in World Vision’s Emergency Food Security Program from May 2018 to May 2019. The participants received unconditional cash vouchers, conditional cash for work vouchers, and nutrition and livelihood trainings. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the association between program interventions and food consumption score (FCS, borderline/poor: 0–35, acceptable: > 35) and reduced coping strategy index (rCSI, acceptable: 0–3, emergency/crisis: 4–56).

Results

A total of 41.5% of all HH that received cash vouchers reported borderline/poor FCS and 71.1% had emergency/crisis rCSI. Utilization of vouchers for food purchase (0.34; 0.23, 0.51) and purchase of more types of food for greater dietary diversity (0.70; 0.55, 0.89) were negatively associated with acceptable FCS. Participants who redeemed cash vouchers were less likely to have an emergency/crisis rCSI (0.68; 0.61, 0.76). Utilization of cash vouchers had a positive association with increased conflict within the HH (2.90; 1.29, 6.48). Participants reporting benefits from improved community rehabilitation through increased check dams were more likely to have acceptable rCSI (2.37; 1.45, 3.89).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that interventions utilizing cash vouchers have to consider contextual factors in calculations of voucher entitlements, increase investment in water management and livelihood skills training, and expand nutrition and livelihood trainings to men and boys to foster women empowerment and improve food security outcomes.
The HSP90-MYC-CDK9 network drives therapeutic resistance in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Yan Fangfang , Jiang Vivian , Jordan Alexa , Che Yuxuan , Liu Yang , Cai Qingsong , Xue Yu , Li Yijing , McIntosh Joseph , Chen Zhihong , Vargas Jovanny , Nie Lei , Yao Yixin , Lee Heng-Huan , Wang Wei , Bigcal JohnNelson R. , Badillo Maria , Meena Jitendra , Flowers Christopher , Zhou Jia , Zhao Zhongming , Simon Lukas M. , Wang Michael
Published: February 2024

Brexucabtagene autoleucel CAR-T therapy is highly efficacious in overcoming resistance to Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi) in mantle cell lymphoma. However, many patients relapse post CAR-T therapy with dismal outcomes. To dissect the underlying mechanisms of sequential resistance to BTKi and CAR-T therapy, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing analysis for 66 samples from 25 patients treated with BTKi and/or CAR-T therapy and conducted in-depth bioinformatics™ analysis. Our analysis revealed that MYC activity progressively increased with sequential resistance.HSP90AB1(Heat shock protein 90 alpha family class B member 1), a MYC target, was identified as early driver of CAR-T resistance.CDK9(Cyclin-dependent kinase 9), another MYC target, was significantly upregulated in Dual-R samples. BothHSP90AB1andCDK9expression were correlated with MYC activity levels. Pharmaceutical co-targeting of HSP90 and CDK9 synergistically diminished MYC activity, leading to potent anti-MCL activity. Collectively, our study revealed that HSP90-MYC-CDK9 network is the primary driving force of therapeutic resistance.
“It’s beautiful and it’s messy and it’s tragic”: exploring the role of compassion in the eating disorder recovery processes of 2S/LGBTQ + Canadians
Authors: White Megan , Thomas Andrew , Aston Megan , Joy Phillip
Published: February 2024

This research explores experiences of compassion among 2S/LGBTQ + Canadians living with eating disorders in the context of eating disorder treatment and community support. There is a growing body of scholarship showing disparities in eating disorder care for those within 2S/LGBTQ + communities. Among the reported concerns is a potential lack of compassion in eating disorder treatment and recovery settings, something which may serve to exacerbate feelings of isolation and perpetuate misunderstandings of 2S/LGBTQ + people’s experiences. In an effort to understand these dynamics more deeply, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 2S/LGBTQ + Canadians who have experienced eating disorder care. The data collected were then subjected to Foucauldian discourse analysis, which produced three interconnected discursive considerations: feeling lack of structural compassion, 2S/LGBTQ + communities as places of respite, and 2S/LGBTQ + caregiving. One of the common threads among these discursive considerations was cis-heteronormativity ingrained in eating disorder treatment settings and health care systems more broadly. Our findings underscore the critical need for more enhanced compassion for 2S/LGBTQ + patients in eating disorder care settings. We conclude that compassion, when implemented on the levels of individual clinicians, policy and procedure, and institutions, may represent an avenue toward disrupting ingrained cis-heteronormativity and the associated discursive power structures contained in health care systems.
Brain-based CALL in flipped higher education GE courses held through LMS: Boosting vocabulary learning and reading comprehension
Authors: Abdolmaleki Nasrin , Saeedi Zari
Published: February 2024

The thriving technology penetration in all aspects of today’s life and deficiency of traditional pedagogies necessitate wise adoption of modern approaches in the educational context. As a few studies concerned the simultaneous application of classical educational theories with modern technological pedagogy, the present researchers launched General English (GE) courses enjoying the consolidation of Brain-Based Computer-Assisted-Language-Learning (BBCALL) and Flipped-Model (FM) with the aid of the Learning Management System (LMS) for fourteen 150-min sessions to explore their impact on vocabulary learning and reading comprehension (RC). In this pre/post-test experimental study, conducted in coeducational GE courses of a state university, 61 homogenous non-English major bachelors, selected via the convenience-sampling technique and screened by standard RC and GE-VOC tests, participated. Articulate Storyline software was used to develop intentional instructional content according to 12 BBL principles. BBCALL was the common aspect and in-class content attainment of non-flipped versus in-class content engagement and formative quizzes of flipped courses were the distinguishing features of the applied treatments. The statistical analyses of this action research demonstrated significantly meaningful outperformance of flipped BBCALL participants in vocabulary learning ($$sig=0.001)$$

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. To enhance results interpretation precision, gender was considered in groups’ differences. Although females in flipped course meaningfully outperformed on RC, male partakers of flipped course experienced the most meaningful improvement in VOC learning. Additionally, low-proficient learners benefited the most from such a self-paced and learner-centered education. The findings suggest that flexible instructional materials and effective tech integration could facilitate the improvement of higher-order thinking, creative problem-solving, and scaffolding.
Empowering PET: harnessing deep learning for improved clinical insight
Authors: Artesani Alessia , Bruno Alessandro , Gelardi Fabrizia , Chiti Arturo
Published: February 2024

This review aims to take a journey into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. To this scope, a broad overview of AI applications in the field of nuclear medicine and a thorough exploration of deep learning (DL) implementations in cancer diagnosis and therapy through PET imaging will be presented. We firstly describe the behind-the-scenes use of AI for image generation, including acquisition (event positioning, noise reduction though time-of-flight estimation and scatter correction), reconstruction (data-driven and model-driven approaches), restoration (supervised and unsupervised methods), and motion correction. Thereafter, we outline the integration of AI into clinical practice through the applications to segmentation, detection and classification, quantification, treatment planning, dosimetry, and radiomics/radiogenomics combined to tumour biological characteristics. Thus, this review seeks to showcase the overarching transformation of the field, ultimately leading to tangible improvements in patient treatment and response assessment. Finally, limitations and ethical considerations of the AI application to PET imaging and future directions of multimodal data mining in this discipline will be briefly discussed, including pressing challenges to the adoption of AI in molecular imaging such as the access to and interoperability of huge amount of data as well as the “black-box” problem, contributing to the ongoing dialogue on the transformative potential of AI in nuclear medicine.

Relevance statement

AI is rapidly revolutionising the world of medicine, including the fields of radiology and nuclear medicine. In the near future, AI will be used to support healthcare professionals. These advances will lead to improvements in diagnosis, in the assessment of response to treatment, in clinical decision making and in patient management.

Key points

• Applying AI has the potential to enhance the entire PET imaging pipeline.

• AI may support several clinical tasks in both PET diagnosis and prognosis.

• Interpreting the relationships between imaging and multiomics data will heavily rely on AI.

Graphical Abstract