bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of bone turnover markers and cognitive function in Chinese chronic schizophrenia patients with or without vitamin D insufficiency
Authors: Ling Chen , Sun Liling , Luo Bei , Yu Haiyun , Li Wei , Yang Yating , Liu Huanzhong
Published: November 2023

Background

Increasing evidence shows that bone turnover markers (BTMs) and vitamin D can affect human cognitive function. However, there are few studies that have investigated the association between BTMs and cognitive function in chronic schizophrenia patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between BTMs and cognitive function in chronic schizophrenia patients with or without vitamin D insufficiency (VDI).

Methods

In all, 118 chronic schizophrenia patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) was applied to evaluate the cognitive function of the subjects. Blood analysis included bone turnover markers, vitamin D levels, and glycolipid levels.

Results

Relative to 72 vitamin D-sufficient (VDS) patients, 46 VDI patients had higher bone resorption markers levels and lower bone formation markers levels. Regression analysis showed that, in the total sample, CTX and language function exhibited independent positive correlation (p = 0.027, R2 change = 0.042), and in the VDS group, procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) was independently negatively correlated with language function (p = 0.031, R2 change = 0.065), while the positive correlation between osteopontin (OPN) and delayed memory remained in the VDI group (p = 0.036, R2 change = 0.083).

Conclusion

Our study showed an association between the levels of BTMs and cognitive function among chronic schizophrenia patients. This correlation may have different mechanisms of action at different vitamin D levels.
Application of exponential smoothing method and SARIMA model in predicting the number of admissions in a third-class hospital in Zhejiang Province
Authors: Yang Wanjun , Su Aonan , Ding Liping
Published: November 2023

Objective

To establish the exponential smoothing prediction model and SARIMA model to predict the number of inpatients in a third-class hospital in Zhejiang Province, and evaluate the prediction effect of the two models, and select the best number prediction model.

Methods

The data of hospital admissions from January 2019 to September 2022 were selected to establish the exponential smoothing prediction model and the SARIMA model respectively. Then compare the fitting parameters of different models: R2_adjusted, R2, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE)、Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE)、Mean Absolute Error(MAE) and standardized BIC to select the best model. Finally, the established model was used to predict the number of hospital admissions from October to December 2022, and the prediction effect of the average relative error judgment model was compared.

Results

The best fitting exponential smoothing prediction model was Winters Addition model, whose R2_adjusted was 0.533, R2was 0.817, MAPE was 6.133, MAE was 447.341. The best SARIMA model is SARIMA(2,2,2)(0,1,1)12model, whose R2_adjusted is 0.449, R2is 0.199, MAPE is 8.240, MAE is 718.965. The Winters addition model and SARIMA(2,2,2)(0,1,1)12model were used to predict the number of hospital admissions in October-December 2022, respectively. The results showed that the average relative error was 0.038 and 0.015, respectively. The SARIMA(2,2,2)(0,1,1)12model had a good prediction effect.

Conclusion

Both models can better fit the number of admissions, and SARIMA model has better prediction effect.
Coexistent Sjogren’s syndrome and Birt-Hogg-Dube´ syndrome: a case report
Authors: Lin Yongkang , Guo Ting , Lei Cheng , Yang Binyi , Yang Danhui , Luo Hong , Peng Hong
Published: November 2023

We report a rare case of Sjogren’s syndrome complicated with Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHDS) not previously mentioned in the literature. Further, there is insufficient evidence linking the two diseases. Here, we review existing diagnostic algorithms for diagnosing diffuse cystic lung disease and provide new insights. The patient initially complained of thirst and dry eyes for ten years, and gradually developed shortness of breath. After admission, physical examination showed five missing teeth, decreased respiratory sounds in both lower lungs, and Velcro rales. Computed tomography showed multiple thin-walled cystic lesions in both lungs. Initial xerophthalmia and labial gland biopsy seemed to reveal a pulmonary cystic change associated with Sjogren’s syndrome. Before discharge, a rash suspected to indicate a fibrofollicular tumor in the neck was observed, and then FLCN variant has been found. The challenges how to clarify the diagnosis of DCLD causes are discussed.
Self-care behaviors and associated factors among individuals with type 2 diabetes in Ghana: a systematic review
Authors: Opoku Richmond , Ackon Solomon Kwesi , Kumah Emmanuel , Botchwey Charles Owusu-Aduomi , Appiah Nana Esi , Korsah Shadrach , Peprah Michael
Published: November 2023

Background

Self-care remains an effective model for diabetes management and care in low-and-middle-income countries due to the limited resources available for the clinical management of the disease and its complications This study examined adherence to self-care behaviors and associated factors among people with type 2 diabetes in Ghana.

Methods

PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase and Google scholar were used to identify quantitative observational studies published between 1990 and September 30, 2023. Studies exclusive to persons with type 2 diabetes ≥ 18 years of age in a Ghanaian setting were included in this review. Findings of primary studies were analyzed using narrative synthesis.

Results

Twelve studies, presenting data on a total of 2,671 persons with type 2 diabetes, were included. All the studies were published in the last decade (2015–2022) and a majority of them were from the Greater Accra Region. The mean number of days (per week) participants adhered to a self-care behavior were in the ranges of 3.9–4.4 for diet, 4.2–4.8 for physical activity, 0.5–2.2 for self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), and 2.9–5.0 for foot care. Adherence rates for medication were in the range of 33.5–84.5%. Patient-related factors, sociodemographic/economic-related factors, condition-related factors, and healthcare system-related factors were associated with various self-care behaviors.

Conclusion

Adherence to self-care behaviors among persons with type 2 diabetes in Ghana remains an ongoing challenge with significant variations in adherence among patients with different characteristics.
Gallic acid rescues uranyl acetate induced-hepatic dysfunction in rats by its antioxidant and cytoprotective potentials
Authors: Elmileegy Ibtisam M. H. , Waly Hanan S. A. , Alghriany Alshaimaa A. I. , Abou Khalil Nasser S. , Mahmoud Sara M. M. , Negm Eman A.
Published: November 2023

Background

The liver was identified as a primary target organ for the chemo-radiological effects of uranyl acetate (UA). Although the anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties of gallic acid (GA) make it a promising phytochemical to resist its hazards, there is no available data in this area of research.

Methods

To address this issue, eighteen rats were randomly and equally divided into three groups. One group was received carboxymethyl cellulose (vehicle of GA) and kept as a control. The UA group was injected intraperitoneally with UA at a single dose of 5 mg/kg body weight. The third group (GA + UA group) was treated with GA orally at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight for 14 days before UA exposure. UA was injected on the 15th day of the experiment in either the UA group or the GA + UA group. The biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical findings in the GA + UA group were compared to both control and UA groups.

Results

The results showed that UA exposure led to a range of adverse effects. These included elevated plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, total protein, globulin, glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very-low-density lipoprotein and decreased plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The exposure also disrupted the redox balance, evident through decreased plasma total antioxidant capacity and hepatic nitric oxide, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase and increased hepatic oxidized glutathione and malondialdehyde. Plasma levels of albumin and alanine aminotransferase did not significantly change in all groups. Histopathological analysis revealed damage to liver tissue, characterized by deteriorations in tissue structure, excessive collagen accumulation, and depletion of glycogen. Furthermore, UA exposure up-regulated the immuno-expression of cleaved caspase-3 and down-regulated the immuno-expression of nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 in hepatic tissues, indicating an induction of apoptosis and oxidative stress response. However, the pre-treatment with GA proved to be effective in mitigating these negative effects induced by UA exposure, except for the disturbances in the lipid profile.

Conclusions

The study suggests that GA has the potential to act as a protective agent against the adverse effects of UA exposure on the liver. Its ability to restore redox balance and inhibit apoptosis makes it a promising candidate for countering the harmful effects of chemo-radiological agents such as UA.
“Tell me what is ‘better’!” How medical students experience feedback, through the lens of self-regulatory learning
Authors: Spooner Muirne , Larkin James , Liew Siaw Cheok , Jaafar Mohamed Hasif , McConkey Samuel , Pawlikowska Teresa
Published: November 2023

Introduction

While feedback aims to support learning, students frequently struggle to use it. In studying feedback responses there is a gap in explaining them in relation to learning theory. This study explores how feedback experiences influence medical students’ self-regulation of learning.

Methods

Final-year medical students across three campuses (Ireland, Bahrain and Malaysia) were invited to share experiences of feedback in individual semi-structured interviews. The data were thematically analysed and explored through the lens of self-regulatory learning theory (SRL).

Results

Feedback interacts with learners’ knowledge and beliefs about themselves and about learning. They use feedback to change both their cognitive and behavioural learning strategies, but how they choose which feedback to implement is complex. They struggle to generate learning strategies and expect teachers to make sense of the “how” in addition to the “what”” in planning future learning. Even when not actioned, learners spend time with feedback and it influences future learning.

Conclusion

By exploring our findings through the lens of self-regulation learning, we advance conceptual understanding of feedback responses. Learners’ ability to generate “next steps” may be overestimated. When feedback causes negative emotions, energy is diverted from learning to processing distress. Perceived non-implementation of feedback should not be confused with ignoring it; feedback that is not actioned often impacts learning.
Developing a virtual patient: design, usability, and learning effect in communication skills training
Authors: Sezer Baris , Sezer Tufan Asli , Teker Gulsen Tasdelen , Elcin Melih
Published: November 2023

Background

Literature shows that Virtual Patients (VPs) find extensive usage in the field of health sciences, especially in the post-pandemic period. VPs are successfully utilized in developing various effective skills like medical interview. However, this technology is quite new in Turkey and has not yet been used in communication skills training in a structured form. This research aimed to develop a virtual patient to improve the communication skills of medical students.

Methods

Developmental research method was used in the study. The implementation phase involved the one group posttest quasi-experimental design. The study group comprised of experts in various fields and 213 medical students. Needs Analysis Form, Scenario Building Form, System Validation Form, Communication Skills Assessment Form, and Interview Form were used as data collection tools. The research primarily concentrated on ensuring minimal errors within the system and enhancing students’ communication skill scores.

Results

The study found that VP was effective in teaching communication skills. Communication skills improved from a mean score of 36.74 in the first interview with 15 students to 74.2 in the final application with 198 students. It was determined that the students who practiced repeatedly (n = 26) made 17% more effective interviews than their first practices (score: 89.2). The script matching of the VP was 83%. Other data obtained from the students generally showed that the VP application was developed in accordance with the purpose, that it was user-friendly, and that the scenarios were adequate.

Conclusion

VPs like this have the potential to develop skills such as history taking, clinical reasoning, etc., which are very important in the field of health sciences.
Self-care nursing assessment: cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Spanish version of the Self-care of chronic illness inventory
Authors: Durán-Gómez Noelia , López-Jurado Casimiro Fermín , Martín-Parrilla Miguel Ángel , Montanero-Fernández Jesús , Pérez-Civantos Demetrio , Cáceres Macarena C.
Published: November 2023

Background

Self‐care is the primary means of caring for a chronic condition. Therefore, it is necessary to assess it by using a good validity and reliability instrument. The Self-Care of Chronic Illness Inventory (SC-CII) is a generic instrument developed to measure self-care processes behaviors using three separate scales in patients with chronic illness. The original cross-cultural assessment concluded the need for future studies sampling patients from different sites to increase the generalizability of the psychometric evaluation results. It was unclear whether this tool had sound psychometrics properties in the context of Spanish culture. The purpose of this study was to cross-culturally adapt the SC-CII, test its psychometric properties and validate its use among Spanish people with chronic diseases.

Methods

A cross-cultural translation of the SC-CII was performed from English to Spanish. The psychometric evaluation was conducted in a sample of 350 patients with chronic conditions through a multicenter cross-sectional study based on the STROBE guideline. Data were collected from face-to-face interviews during 2022. Internal validity was assessed with Confirmatory Factor Analysis, internal consistency reliability with Cronbach alpha for unidimensional scales and McDonald's Omega reliability coefficient for multidimensional scales.

Results

Most (63.4%) participants were older adults aged 65 years or older with a mean age of 65.45 ± 14.97. The average number of chronic conditions reported was 2.81%; the most common conditions were hypertension (52.3%), musculoskeletal disorders (46.3%) and diabetes (38.9%). Patients reported adequate self-care behaviors in all three scales of the SC-CII. The Self-Care Maintenance and Management scales were multidimensional, and the Self-Care Monitoring scale was unidimensional. In Confirmatory Factor Analysis, the Self-Care Maintenance and Monitoring scales had satisfactory fit indices. The Self-care Management scale had acceptable fit indices. The Omega reliability coefficient for multidimensional scales was 0.75 (Self-Care Maintenance) and 0.72 (Self-Care Management). The Cronbach alpha coefficient of the Self-Care Monitoring scale was 0.85. Item-total correlations were all significant except one. Test–retest reliability showed an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.92.

Conclusions

The SC-CII has appropriate psychometrics characteristics and is a culturally suitable and reliable instrument for assessing to the self-care behaviors of patients with chronic disease in Spain. The scale provides a simple and rapid solution to assess the self-care process.
Orphan response regulator CovR plays positive regulative functions in the survivability and pathogenicity of Streptococcus suis serotype 2 isolated from a pig
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Li Rui , Li Qian , Zhu Yongwei , Yang Xiaopei , Zhao Di , Zong Bingbing
Published: November 2023

Background

Streptococcus suis serotype 2 (S. suis 2) is an important zoonotic pathogen. Orphan response regulator CovR plays crucial regulative functions in the survivability and pathogenicity of S. suis 2. However, research on the CovR in S. suis 2 is limited.

Results

In this study, the regulative functions of CovR in the survivability and pathogenicity were investigated in S. suis 2 isolated from a diseased pig. The deletion of CovR significantly weakened the survivability and pathogenicity of S. suis 2. Compared with the wild-type strain, ΔcovR showed slower growth rates and thinner capsular polysaccharides. Moreover, ΔcovR showed reduced adhesion and invasion to Hep-2 cells as well as anti-phagocytosis and anti-killing ability to 3D4 cells and anti-serum killing ability. In addition, the deletion of CovR significantly reduced the colonisation ability of S. suis 2 in mice. The survival rate of mice infected with ΔcovR was increased by 16.7% compared with that of mice infected with S. suis 2. Further, the deletion of CovR led to dramatic changes in metabolism-related pathways in S. suis 2, five of those, including fructose and mannose metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, ABC transporters, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism and phosphotransferase system, were significantly down-regulated.

Conclusions

Based on the results, CovR plays positive regulative functions in the survivability and pathogenicity of S. suis 2 SC19 strain isolated from a pig.
TH-302-loaded nanodrug reshapes the hypoxic tumour microenvironment and enhances PD-1 blockade efficacy in gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Zhixiong , Zhu Menglin , Dong Runyu , Cao Danping , Li Yanna , Chen Zhiqiang , Cai Juan , Zuo Xueliang
Published: November 2023

Background

Hypoxia, a common characteristic of the tumour microenvironment, is involved in tumour progression and immune evasion. Targeting the hypoxic microenvironment has been implicated as a promising antitumour therapeutic strategy. TH-302 can be selectively activated under hypoxic conditions. However, the effectiveness of TH-302 in gastric cancer combined immunotherapy remains unclear.

Methods

We designed mPEG-PLGA-encapsulated TH-302 (TH-302 NPs) to target the hypoxic area of tumour tissues. A particle size analyzer was used to measure the average size and zeta potential of TH-302 NPs. The morphology was observed by transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The hypoxic area of tumour tissues was examined by immunofluorescence assays using pimonidazole. Flow cytometry analysis was performed to measure the levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and granzyme B. The synergistic antitumour activity of the combination of TH-302 NPs with anti-PD-1 (α-PD-1) therapy was assessed in vitro and in vivo. Haematoxylin and eosin staining of major organs and biochemical indicator detection were performed to investigate the biological safety of TH-302 NPs in vivo.

Results

TH-302 NPs inhibited the proliferation and promoted the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells under hypoxic conditions. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that TH-302 NPs could effectively alleviate tumour hypoxia. TH-302 NPs exhibited high bioavailability, effective tumour-targeting ability and satisfactory biosafety. Moreover, the combination of TH-302 NPs with α-PD-1 significantly improved immunotherapeutic efficacy in vivo. Mechanistically, TH-302 NPs reduced the expression of HIF-1α and PD-L1, facilitated the infiltration of CD8+ T cells and increased the levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and granzyme B in tumours, thereby enhancing the efficacy of α-PD-1 therapy.

Conclusion

TH-302 NPs alleviated the hypoxic tumour microenvironment and enhanced the efficacy of PD-1 blockade. Our results provide evidence that TH-302 NPs can be used as a safe and effective nanodrug for combined immunotherapy in gastric cancer treatment.
Short- and long-term outcomes of Roux-en-Y and Billroth II with Braun reconstruction in total laparoscopic distal gastrectomy: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Chen Yan-xin , Huang Qiao-zhen , Wang Peng-cheng , Zhu Yue-Jia , Chen Li-quan , Wu Chu-ying , Wang Jin-tian , Chen Jun-xing , Ye Kai
Published: November 2023

Background

The controversy surrounding Roux-en-Y (R-Y) and Billroth II with Braun (BII + B) reconstruction as an anti-bile reflux procedure after distal gastrectomy has persisted. Recent studies have demonstrated their efficacy, but the long-term outcomes and postoperative quality of life (QoL) among patients have yet to be evaluated. Therefore, we compared the short-term and long-term outcomes of the two procedures as well as QoL.

Methods

The clinical data of 151 patients who underwent total laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (TLDG) at the Gastrointestinal Surgery Department of the Second Hospital of Fujian Medical University from January 2016 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Of these, 57 cases with Roux-en-Y procedure (R-Y group) and 94 cases with Billroth II with Braun procedure were included (BII + B group). Operative and postoperative conditions, early and late complications, endoscopic outcomes at year 1 and year 3 after surgery, nutritional indicators, and quality of life scores at year 3 postoperatively were compared between the two groups.

Results

The R-Y group recorded a significantly longer operative time (194.65 ± 21.52 vs. 183.88 ± 18.02 min) and anastomotic time (36.96 ± 2.43 vs. 27.97 ± 3.74 min) compared to the BII + B group (p < 0.05). However, no other significant differences were observed in terms of perioperative variables, including blood loss (p > 0.05). Both groups showed comparable rates of early and late complications. Endoscopic findings indicated similar food residuals at years 1 and 3 post-surgery for both groups. The R-Y group had a lower occurrence of residual gastritis and bile reflux at year 1 and year 3 after surgery, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). Reflux esophagitis was not significantly different between the R-Y and BII + B groups in year 1 after surgery (p = 0.820), but the R-Y group had a lower incidence than the BII + B group in year 3 after surgery (p = 0.023). Nutritional outcomes at 3 years after surgery did not differ significantly between the two groups (p > 0.05). Quality of life scores measured by the QLQ-C30 scale were not significantly different between the two groups. However, on the QLQ-STO22 scale, the reflux score was significantly lower in the R-Y group than in the BII + B group (0 [0, 0] vs. 5.56 [0, 11.11]) (p = 0.003). The rest of the scores were not significantly different (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Both R-Y and B II + B reconstructions are equally safe and efficient for TLDG. Nevertheless, the R-Y reconstruction reduces the incidence of residual gastritis, bile reflux, and reflux esophagitis, as well as postoperative reflux symptoms, and provides a better quality of life for patients. R-Y reconstruction is superior to BII + B reconstruction for TLDG.
Physical activity and cognitive function: moment-to-moment and day-to-day associations
Authors: Kekäläinen Tiia , Luchetti Martina , Terracciano Antonio , Gamaldo Alyssa A. , Mogle Jacqueline , Lovett Hephzibah H. , Brown Justin , Rantalainen Timo , Sliwinski Martin J. , Sutin Angelina R.
Published: November 2023

Background

The beneficial effect of acute physical exercise on cognitive performance has been studied in laboratory settings and in long-term longitudinal studies. Less is known about these associations in everyday environment and on a momentary timeframe. This study investigated momentary and daily associations between physical activity and cognitive functioning in the context of everyday life.

Methods

Middle-aged adults (n = 291, aged 40–70) were asked to wear accelerometers and complete ecological momentary assessments for eight consecutive days. Processing speed and visual memory were assessed three times per day and self-rated evaluations of daily cognition (memory, thinking, and sharpness of mind) were collected each night. The number of minutes spent above the active threshold (active time) and the maximum vector magnitude counts (the highest intensity obtained) before each cognitive test and at a daily level were used as predictors of momentary cognitive performance and nightly subjective cognition. Analyses were done with multilevel linear models. The models were adjusted for temporal and contextual factors, age, sex, education, and race/ethnicity.

Results

When participants had a more active time or higher intensity than their average level within the 20 or 60 minutes prior to the cognitive test, they performed better on the processing speed task. On days when participants had more active time than their average day, they rated their memory in the evening better. Physical activity was not associated with visual memory or self-rated thinking and sharpness of mind.

Conclusions

This study provides novel evidence that outside of laboratory settings, even small increases in physical activity boost daily processing speed abilities and self-rated memory. The finding of temporary beneficial effects is consistent with long-term longitudinal research on the cognitive benefits of physical activity.
Biological underpinnings of radiomic magnetic resonance imaging phenotypes for risk stratification in IDH wild-type glioblastoma
Authors: Guan Fangzhan , Wang Zilong , Qiu Yuning , Guo Yu , Pei Dongling , Wang Minkai , Xing Aoqi , Liu Zhongyi , Yu Bin , Cheng Jingliang , Liu Xianzhi , Ji Yuchen , Yan Dongming , Yan Jing , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: November 2023

Background

To develop and validate a conventional MRI-based radiomic model for predicting prognosis in patients with IDH wild-type glioblastoma (GBM) and reveal the biological underpinning of the radiomic phenotypes.

Methods

A total of 801 adult patients (training set, N = 471; internal validation set, N = 239; external validation set, N = 91) diagnosed with IDH wild-type GBM were included. A 20-feature radiomic risk score (Radscore) was built for overall survival (OS) prediction by univariate prognostic analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression in the training set. GSEA and WGCNA were applied to identify the intersectional pathways underlying the prognostic radiomic features in a radiogenomic analysis set with paired MRI and RNA-seq data (N = 132). The biological meaning of the conventional MRI sequences was revealed using a Mantel test.

Results

Radscore was demonstrated to be an independent prognostic factor (P < 0.001). Incorporating the Radscore into a clinical model resulted in a radiomic-clinical nomogram predicting survival better than either the Radscore model or the clinical model alone, with better calibration and classification accuracy (a total net reclassification improvement of 0.403, P < 0.001). Three pathway categories (proliferation, DNA damage response, and immune response) were significantly correlated with the prognostic radiomic phenotypes.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that the prognostic radiomic phenotypes derived from conventional MRI are driven by distinct pathways involved in proliferation, DNA damage response, and immunity of IDH wild-type GBM.
Molecular epidemiology and characteristics of respiratory syncytial virus among hospitalized children in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Umar Sajid , Yang Rongyuan , Wang Xinye , Liu Yuntao , Ke Peifeng , Qin Sheng
Published: November 2023

Background

Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infection and hospitalization, especially in children. Highly mutagenic nature and antigenic diversity enable the RSV to successfully survive in human population. We conducted a molecular epidemiological study during 2017–2021 to investigate the prevalence and genetic characteristics of RSV.

Methods

A total of 6499 nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs were collected from hospitalized children at Department of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. All NP swab specimens were preliminary screened for common respiratory viruses and then tested for RSV using specific PCR assays. Partial G genes of RSV were amplified for phylogenetic analysis and genetic characterization.

Results

The overall detection rate for common respiratory viruses was 16.12% (1048/6499). Among those, 405 specimens (6.20%, 405/6499) were found positive for RSV. The monthly distribution of RSV and other respiratory viruses was variable, and the highest incidence was recorded in Autumn and Winter. Based on the sequencing of hypervariable region of G gene, 93 RSV sequences were sub-grouped into RSV-A (56, 60.2%) and RSV-B (37, 39.8%). There was no coinfection of RSV-A and RSV-B in the tested samples. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that RSV-A and RSV-B strains belonged to ON1 and BA9 genotypes respectively, indicating predominance of these genotypes in Guangzhou. Several substitutions were observed which may likely change the antigenicity and pathogenicity of RSV. Multiple glycosylation sites were noticed, demonstrating high selection pressure on these genotypes.

Conclusion

This study illustrated useful information about epidemiology, genetic characteristics, and circulating genotypes of RSV in Guangzhou China. Regular monitoring of the circulating strains of RSV in different parts of China could assist in the development of more effective vaccines and preventive measures.
Local perfusion of capillaries reveals disrupted beta-amyloid homeostasis at the blood-brain barrier in Tg2576 murine Alzheimer’s model
Authors: Hanafy Amira Sayed , Lamprecht Alf , Dietrich Dirk
Published: November 2023

Background

Parenchymal accumulation of beta-amyloid (Aβ) characterizes Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Aβ homeostasis is maintained by two ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters (ABCC1 and ABCB1) mediating efflux, and the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) mediating influx across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Altered transporter levels and disruption of tight junctions (TJ) were linked to AD. However, Aβ transport and the activity of ABCC1, ABCB1 and RAGE as well as the functionality of TJ in AD are unclear.

Methods

ISMICAP, a BBB model involving microperfusion of capillaries, was used to assess BBB properties in acute cortical brain slices from Tg2576 mice compared to wild-type (WT) controls using two-photon microscopy. TJ integrity was tested by vascularly perfusing biocytin-tetramethylrhodamine (TMR) and quantifying its extravascular diffusion as well as the diffusion of FM1-43 from luminal to abluminal membranes of endothelial cells (ECs). To assess ABCC1 and ABCB1 activity, calcein-AM was perfused, which is converted to fluorescent calcein in ECs and gets actively extruded by both transporters. To probe which transporter is involved, probenecid or Elacridar were applied, individually or combined, to block ABCC1 and ABCB1, respectively. To assess RAGE activity, the binding of 5-FAM-tagged Aβ by ECs was quantified with or without applying FPS-ZM1, a RAGE antagonist.

Results

In Tg2576 mouse brain, extravascular TMR was 1.8-fold that in WT mice, indicating increased paracellular leakage. FM1-43 staining of abluminal membranes in Tg2576 capillaries was 1.7-fold that in WT mice, indicating reduced TJ integrity in AD. While calcein was undetectable in WT mice, its accumulation was significant in Tg2576 mice, suggesting lower calcein extrusion in AD. Incubation with probenecid or Elacridar in WT mice resulted in a marked calcein accumulation, yet probenecid alone had no effect in Tg2576 mice, implying the absence of probenecid-sensitive ABC transporters. In WT mice, Aβ accumulated along the luminal membranes, which was undetectable after applying FPS-ZM1. In contrast, marginal Aβ fluorescence was observed in Tg2576 vessels, and FPS-ZM1 was without effect, suggesting reduced RAGE binding activity.

Conclusions

Disrupted TJ integrity, reduced ABCC1 functionality and decreased RAGE binding were identified as BBB alterations in Tg2576 mice, with the latter finding challenging the current concepts. Our results suggest to manage AD by including modulation of TJ proteins and Aβ-RAGE binding.
A rapid and sensitive, multiplex, whole mount RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry protocol
Authors: Huang Tian , Guillotin Bruno , Rahni Ramin , Birnbaum Kenneth D. , Wagner Doris
Published: November 2023

Background

In the past few years, there has been an explosion in single-cell transcriptomics datasets, yet in vivo confirmation of these datasets is hampered in plants due to lack of robust validation methods. Likewise, modeling of plant development is hampered by paucity of spatial gene expression data. RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) enables investigation of gene expression in the context of tissue type. Despite development of FISH methods for plants, easy and reliable whole mount FISH protocols have not yet been reported.

Results

We adapt a 3-day whole mount RNA-FISH method for plant species based on a combination of prior protocols that employs hybridization chain reaction (HCR), which amplifies the probe signal in an antibody-free manner. Our whole mount HCR RNA-FISH method shows expected spatial signals with low background for gene transcripts with known spatial expression patterns in Arabidopsis inflorescences and monocot roots. It allows simultaneous detection of three transcripts in 3D. We also show that HCR RNA-FISH can be combined with endogenous fluorescent protein detection and with our improved immunohistochemistry (IHC) protocol.

Conclusions

The whole mount HCR RNA-FISH and IHC methods allow easy investigation of 3D spatial gene expression patterns in entire plant tissues.
Sharp unifying generalizations of Opial’s inequality
Authors: Klaassen Chris A. J.
Published: November 2023

Opial’s inequality and its ramifications play an important role in the theory of differential and difference equations. A sharp unifying generalization of Opial’s inequality is presented that contains both its continuous and discrete versions. This generalization, based on distribution functions, is extended to the case of derivatives of arbitrary order. This extension optimizes and improves the constant given in the literature. The special case of derivatives of second order is studied in more detail. Two closely related Opial inequalities with a weight function are presented as well. The associated Wirtinger inequality is studied briefly.
The fate of intracoelomic acoustic transmitters in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) post-smolts and wider considerations for causal factors driving tag retention and mortality in fishes
Authors: Lawrence M. J. , Wilson B. M. , Reid G. K. , Hawthorn C. , English G. , Black M. , Leadbeater S. , McKindsey C. W. , Trudel M.
Published: November 2023

Acoustic telemetry is a widely used method in assessing behavioural dynamics in fishes. Telemetry transmitters (tags) are often surgically implanted in the coelom of the animal with limited in situ testing and sometimes only assuming that they have minimal rates of post-release tag shedding and mortality. However, fish are capable of expelling tags and mortalities do occur following release, with the mechanism (s) underlying these effects not well-understood. The purpose of this research was to address causal factors underlying tag expulsion and tagging mortality in fishes. We conducted an empirical assessment of tag retention and post-surgical mortality rates in post-smolt Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) fitted with dummy (non-transmitting) acoustic tags over a 92-day monitoring period. This was complimented with a meta-analysis of factors affecting tag retention and post-surgical mortality rates in the wider literature. Post-smolt salmon had high rates of tag expulsion (54.8%), impaired growth, and a foreign body response evident but exhibited low rates of mortality following tag implantation (≤ 5.1%). The meta-analysis showed that mortality was generally low across all studies (12.4%) and was largely unaffected by model cofactors. Tag retention rates were high among the studies investigated here (86.7%) and had a weak negative relationship with tag:body mass ratios. Our results suggest that while mortality is often low among tagging studies, including this one, caution must be exercised in assessing stationary tag location data as they may represent an expelled tag rather than a mortality event. Our results also indicate that tag dimensions are not nearly as important as the tag:body mass ratio.
The effect of acarbose on lipid profiles in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Yousefi Mohsen , Fateh Sahand Tehrani , Nikbaf-Shandiz Mahlagha , Gholami Fatemeh , Rastgoo Samira , Bagher Reza , Khadem Alireza , Shiraseb Farideh , Asbaghi Omid
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Dyslipidemia, characterized by elevated levels of triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC), and reduced levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Several studies have shown the potential of acarbose in improving serum lipid markers. However, there have been conflicting results on the topic in adults. Therefore, a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to assess the impact of acarbose on lipid profiles.

Methods

The random-effects approach was used to combine the data, and the results were provided as weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Our meta-analysis included a total of 74 studies with a combined sample size of 7046 participants. The results of the analysis showed that acarbose resulted in a reduction in levels of TG (WMD = − 13.43 mg/dl, 95% CI: − 19.20, − 7.67;P < 0.001) and TC (WMD = − 1.93 mg/dl, 95% CI: − 3.71, − 0.15;P = 0.033), but did not affect other lipid markers. When conducting a nonlinear dose-response analysis, we found that acarbose was associated with an increase in levels of HDL (coefficients = 0.50,P = 0.012), with the highest increase observed at a dosage of 400 mg/d. Furthermore, our findings suggested a non-linear relationship between the duration of the intervention and TC (coefficients = − 18.00,P = 0.032), with a decline observed after 50 weeks of treatment.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that acarbose can reduce serum levels of TG and TC. However, no significant effects were observed on LDL or HDL levels.
From power to architecture: an analysis on the identity transformation of Tagaytay people’s park in the sky through edifice complex and democratization theory
Authors: Rivera-Lutap Jocelyn A. , Castillo John Benedict A.
Published: November 2023

The study of architecture in relation to the principles of political power places a different perspective in understanding how the built environs with heritage value were shaped in time and are being constantly shaped at the present. Its relevance cannot be understated, as in spite of its actuality, it is a side of the field that may still be considered sensitive to some. Architecture is never neutral. It corresponds to the patron’s ideals, intentions, and ideological orientation, communicated by the designer through his technical knowledge in artistic articulation of forms. In a larger scale, architectural identity can therefore be affected by those possessing power and can serve as tactile channel in redirecting society. This study presents the case of People’s Park in the Sky in the Philippines, a colossal brutalist mansion, originally named Palace in the Sky, situated at Mt. Sungay peak in Tagaytay City. Commissioned in 1981 by Imelda Marcos, the wife of authoritarian head Ferdinand Marcos, the palace was not completed and eventually transformed into a public urban park. Supported by the concept of Edifice Complex and Democratization theory, methodical assessment of the political links of the said architecture was executed in two parts: examination of historical accounts and first-hand site investigations. The findings of the analysis revealed that there is a present architectural crisis in the park, emerging from its long-time neglect since the 1986 transition years, and if not taken proper institutional action, its genuine identity and legacy could be forgotten and eventually lost in the near future.
Assessing hydroclimate response to land use/cover change using coupled atmospheric-hydrological models
Authors: Chen Chia-Jeng , Chi Min-Hung , Ye Jing-Ru
Published: November 2023

Modeling techniques provide a straightforward means to dissect regional hydroclimate in response to changes in land use conditions. This study uses the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) and WRF-Hydrological modeling system (WRF-Hydro), driven by survey-based land use data in 1995 and 2015, to assess how central Taiwan’s hydroclimate responds to land use/cover change. We first run WRF-Hydro with observed rainfall as meteorological forcing to ensure reasonable runoff simulation, and then select ten cases under weak synoptic forcings in July and August in recent decades for the simulation under two land use conditions. The WRF-only simulation (i.e., uncoupled with WRF-Hydro) can reveal significant changes in heat fluxes and surface variables due to land use/cover change, including sensible and latent heat fluxes, 2-m temperature and specific humidity, and precipitation over the hotspots of urbanization or downwind areas. Coupling WRF with WRF-Hydro discloses varied runoff characteristics subject to land use/cover change: a general increase in average peak flow (~ 4.3%) and total runoff volume (~ 5.0%) accompanied by less definite time-to-peak flow, indicating a synergistic but sometimes competitive relationship between the pure hydrologic/hydraulic perspective and land–atmosphere interactions. By taking the difference between the uncoupled and coupled simulations, we verify that surface pressure, precipitation, and soil moisture are more sensitive to a better depiction of terrestrial hydrological processes; differences in the spatial variances of soil moisture can be as high as two orders of magnitude. Our findings highlight the importance of more comprehensive model physics in regional hydroclimate modeling.
Cognitive–behavioural therapy as a comprehensive treatment for personality disorders
Authors: Carreiras Diogo , Castilho Paula , Rijo Daniel , Salvador Maria do Céu , Carona Carlos
Published: November 2023

Personality disorders are a group of psychological disorders characterised by a developmental nature, long-lasting impairment and emotional suffering. Personality disorders have an estimated prevalence rate of approximately 8% in community settings, but in in-patient settings the rate might be as high as 76%. Cognitive–behavioural therapies (CBTs) include psychotherapies that emphasise the identification and modification of maladaptive thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to the maintenance of psychological disorders. CBTs have demonstrated their effectiveness in treating various types of personality disorder. This article focuses on the nature of personality disorders and their categorial and dimensional assessment and neurobiology. We present three influential CBT models used in personality disorders: schema therapy, cognitive interpersonal therapy and dialectical behaviour therapy. For each one, we outline the rationale, intervention strategies and therapeutic techniques, with practical examples and summary tables to illustrate their application.
Trends of Utilization of Systemic Therapies for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma in the Canadian Health Care System
Authors: Cardenas Luisa M. , Ghosh Sunita , Finelli Antonio , Wood Lori , Kollmannsberger Christian , Basappa Naveen , Graham Jeffrey , Heng Daniel , Bjarnason Georg , Soulières Denis , Bossé Dominick , Castonguay Vincent , Saleh Ramy , Tanguay Simon , Bhindi Bimal , Breau Rodney H. , Pouliot Frederic , Lalani Aly-Khan A.
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE

Standard-of-care therapies for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) have greatly evolved. However, the availability of emerging options in global health care systems can vary. We sought to describe the integration and usage of systemic therapies for mRCC in Canada since 2011.

METHODS

We included patients with mRCC enrolled in the Canadian Kidney Cancer Information System, a prospective cohort of patients from 14 Canadian academic centers, who received systemic therapy from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2021. Patients were stratified by treatment era (cohort 1: 2011-2015, cohort 2: 2016-2021). Stacked bar charts were used to present treatment proportions; Sankey diagrams were used to show the evolution of treatment sequencing between the two cohorts.

RESULTS

Four thousand one hundred seven patients were diagnosed with mRCC, of whom 2,752 (67%) received systemic therapy. Among these patients, mean age was 64 years, 74% were male, 75% had clear cell histology, and International Metastatic RCC Database Consortium risk classification was favorable, intermediate, and poor in 16%, 56%, and 28%, respectively. Utilization of immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI)–based treatments has increased in Canada and reflects global and local patterns of approval and adoption. The use of therapies after doublet ICI has mostly shifted toward vascular endothelial growth factor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGF-TKIs) that were previously used in first line with subsequent treatments reflecting approved and available agents after previous VEGF-TKI. Clinical trial participation among patients who received systemic therapy was 18% in first, 21% in second, and 24% in third line.

CONCLUSION

In Canada's publicly funded health care system, availability of standard mRCC therapies broadly reflects access from government-funded clinical trials and compassionate access program sources. In an evolving therapeutic landscape, ongoing advocacy is required to continue to facilitate patient access to efficacious therapies.