bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco-friendly synthesized nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents: an updated review
Authors: Borehalli Mayegowda Shilpa , Roy Arpita , N. G. Manjula , Pandit Soumya , Alghamdi Saad , Almehmadi Mazen , Allahyani Mamdouh , Awwad Nasser S. , Sharma Rohit
Published: August 2023

Green synthesis of NPs has gained extensive acceptance as they are reliable, eco-friendly, sustainable, and stable. Chemically synthesized NPs cause lung inflammation, heart problems, liver dysfunction, immune suppression, organ accumulation, and altered metabolism, leading to organ-specific toxicity. NPs synthesized from plants and microbes are biologically safe and cost-effective. These microbes and plant sources can consume and accumulate inorganic metal ions from their adjacent niches, thus synthesizing extracellular and intracellular NPs. These inherent characteristics of biological cells to process and modify inorganic metal ions into NPs have helped explore an area of biochemical analysis. Biological entities or their extracts used in NPs include algae, bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, viruses, yeasts, and plants, with varying capabilities through the bioreduction of metallic NPs. These biosynthesized NPs have a wide range of pharmaceutical applications, such as tissue engineering, detection of pathogens or proteins, antimicrobial agents, anticancer mediators, vehicles for drug delivery, formulations for functional foods, and identification of pathogens, which can contribute to translational research in medical applications. NPs have various applications in the food and drug packaging industry, agriculture, and environmental remediation.
Babesia ovis secreted antigen-1 is a diagnostic marker during the active Babesia ovis infections in sheep
Authors: Sevinc Ferda , Zhou Mo , Cao Shinuo , Ceylan Onur , Ulucesme Mehmet Can , Ozubek Sezayi , Aktas Munir , Xuan Xuenan
Published: August 2023

Ovine babesiosis caused by Babesia ovis is an economically significant disease. Recently, a few B. ovis-specific proteins, including recombinant B. ovis secreted antigen-1 (rBoSA1), have been identified. Immunological analyses revealed that rBoSA1 resides within the cytoplasm of infected erythrocytes and exhibits robust antigenic properties for detecting anti-B. ovis antibodies. This protein is released into the bloodstream during the parasite’s development. It would be possible to diagnose active infections by detecting this secretory protein. For this purpose, a rBoSA1-specific polyclonal antibody-based sandwich ELISA was optimized in this study. Blood samples taken from the naturally (n: 100) and experimentally (n: 15) infected sheep were analyzed for the presence of native BoSA1. The results showed that native BoSA1 was detectable in 98% of naturally infected animals. There was a positive correlation between parasitemia level in microscopy and protein density in sandwich ELISA. Experimentally infected animals showed positive reactions from the first or second day of inoculations. However, experimental infections carried out by Rhipicephalus bursa ticks revealed the native BoSA1 was detectable from the 7th day of tick attachment when the parasite began to be seen microscopically. Sandwich ELISA was sensitive enough to detect rBoSA1 protein at a 1.52 ng/ml concentration. Additionally, no serological cross-reactivity was observed between animals infected with various piroplasm species, including Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, B. caballi, B. canis, B. gibsoni, Theileria equi, and T. annulata. Taken collectively, the findings show that the rBoSA1-specific polyclonal antibody-based sandwich ELISA can be successfully used to diagnose clinical B. ovis infections in sheep at the early stage.
The (im)possibility of being a breastfeeding working mother: experiences of Ecuadorian healthcare providers
Authors: Mendoza-Gordillo Maria J. , Bates Benjamin R. , Vivat Bella
Published: August 2023

Background

Throughout the twentieth century, public health agencies and expert healthcare professionals have recognized breastfeeding as the most nutritious and appropriate option for feeding infants. The Ecuadorian government, in line with international guidelines, has therefore developed laws and initiatives to improve the initiation and maintenance of breastfeeding, especially among working mothers. However, breastfeeding rates in Ecuador are low.

Methods

A qualitative methodology following social constructionist approaches was applied to explore the breastfeeding experiences of Ecuadorian women who are both mothers and healthcare professionals. Using snowball sampling, 60 healthcare professionals who breastfed their babies: 20 nurses, 20 physicians, and 20 nutritionists, took part in research interviews lasting between 30 and 92 minutes. All participants are currently offering telehealth or face-to-face consultation to their patients in Ecuador. Since Ecuador is a multicultural country, efforts were made to include participants from different regions of the country. Data gathering employed virtual semi-structured interviews including Photovoice. The interviews were carried out in Spanish, following a semi-structured topic guide. The data analysis employed constant comparative methods.

Results

The analysis produced three overarching themes: Integrating breastfeeding in life and work; Establishing space for breastfeeding at work; Negotiations and tensions. The first theme: Integrating breastfeeding in life and work addresses participants' corporeal and emotional experiences when breastfeeding. This theme also includes the participants' experiences of how they integrated their maternal identity and adapted their breastfeeding bodies to their daily routines. The second theme: Establishing space for breastfeeding at work includes the challenges that some women encounter when incorporating and seeking to combine breastfeeding in their professional identities. The third theme: Negotiations and tensions covers how this group of female healthcare professionals had to negotiate the time and space to continue breastfeeding their children while working.
Association between clustering of cardiovascular risk factors and left ventricular geometric remodeling in Chinese children
Authors: Liu Qin , Wang Huan , Zhao Min , Zhang Cheng , Bovet Pascal , Xi Bo
Published: August 2023

Background

Several cardiovascular (CV) risk factors are reported to be associated with abnormal cardiac structure in children and adults. However, no study has assessed the association between clustering of multiple CV risk factors and left ventricular geometric (LVG) remodeling. We examined the association between clustering of CV risk factors and LVG remodeling among Chinese children.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 1,406 children aged 6–11 years. Clustering of CV risk factors was quantified as the sum of the number of five CV risk factors (abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure, high fasting blood glucose, high triglycerides and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). Based on left ventricular mass index and relative wall thickness (RWT), left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), high RWT and LVG remodeling [concentric remodeling (CR), eccentric hypertrophy (EH) and concentric hypertrophy (CH)] were defined.

Results

Compared to participants without CV risk factor, those with 1, 2 and ≥3 risk factors were at increased risk of LVH [ORs (95% CIs): 3.49 (2.19–5.56), 5.53 (3.20–9.55), and 19.19 (9.67–38.08), respectively]; corresponding values for high RWT were 2.47 (1.63–3.74), 3.76 (2.25–6.27), and 5.47 (2.65–11.28). Similar associations between clustering of CV risk factors and LVG remodeling were found [CR: 1.71 (1.06–2.76), 2.83 (1.54–5.18), and 3.82 (1.37–10.62); EH: 2.42 (1.42–4.11), 4.23 (2.24–7.96), and 16.86 (7.70–36.92); CH: 14.92 (4.41–50.47), 23.15 (6.32–84.83), and 71.19 (17.09–296.56)].

Conclusion

CV risk factors in isolation and combination were associated with an increased risk of LVH, high RWT and LVG remodeling among children, emphasizing the need to consider multiple risk factors when assessing the risk of cardiac outcomes.
Case report: Isolated dissection of the left gastric artery: an unusual cause of acute abdominal pain
Authors: Frey V. , Engelberger R. P. , Psathas E.
Published: August 2023

Spontaneous and isolated dissection of the left gastric artery is a rare occurrence, with only a handful of cases reported in the medical literature. Clinical presentation may mimic more common intra-abdominal pathologies; however, it is imperative to identify this condition promptly due to its potential serious consequences. This underscores the importance of maintaining a high level of clinical suspicion and including this pathology in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with acute abdominal symptoms. Hence, this case report aims to increase awareness among clinicians about the importance of identifying and treating this rare condition promptly. A 69-year-old female experienced severe epigastric pain while attending a yoga class, prompting her admission to the emergency department 24 h later due to the persistence of her symptoms. Following imaging work-up utilizing computed tomography angiography (CTA), she was diagnosed with a dissection of the left gastric artery. Notably, there was no associated aneurysm or any evidence of ischemia in the esophageal or gastric wall. Conservative management, including low-dose aspirin and blood pressure control, was implemented. After 6 months of follow-up, CTA demonstrated expansion of the true lumen and the absence of secondary aneurysm formation, leading to discontinuation of aspirin. The management of spontaneous dissection of visceral arteries is primarily determined by the presence of complications and organ ischemia. In the case of uncomplicated visceral artery dissections, first-line treatment comprises surveillance and antiaggregation. Nevertheless, the optimal duration of antiplatelet therapy and the necessity for long-term follow-up remain unclear. Endovascular or surgical interventions should be reserved for patients exhibiting deteriorating symptoms or complications, and the decision to pursue these interventions should be made on a case-by-case basis.
Manipulation of components of the renin angiotensin system in renal proximal tubules fails to alter atherosclerosis in hypercholesterolemic mice
Authors: Kukida Masayoshi , Amioka Naofumi , Ye Dien , Chen Hui , Moorleghen Jessica J. , Liang Ching-Ling , Howatt Deborah A. , Katsumata Yuriko , Yanagita Motoko , Sawada Hisashi , Daugherty Alan , Lu Hong S.
Published: August 2023

Background and objective

Whole body manipulation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) consistently exerts profound effects on experimental atherosclerosis development. A deficit in the literature has been a lack of attention to the effects of sex. Also, based on data with gene-deleted mice, the site of RAS activity that influences lesion formation is at an unknown distant location. Since angiotensin (AngII) concentrations are high in kidney and the major components of the RAS are present in renal proximal tubule cells (PTCs), this study evaluated the role of the RAS in PTCs in atherosclerosis development.

Methods and results

Mice with an LDL receptor −/− background were fed Western diet to induce hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. We first demonstrated the role of AT1 receptor antagonism on atherosclerosis in both sexes. Losartan, an AngII type 1 (AT1) receptor blocker, had greater blood pressure-lowering effects in females than males, but equivalent effects between sexes in reducing atherosclerotic lesion size. To determine the roles of renal AT1a receptor and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), either component was deleted in PTCs after weaning using a tamoxifen-inducible Cre expressed under the control of an Ndrg1 promoter. Despite profound deletion of AT1a receptor or ACE in PTCs, the absence of either protein did not influence development of atherosclerosis in either sex. Conversely, mice expressing human angiotensinogen and renin in PTCs or expressing human angiotensinogen in liver but human renin in PTCs did not change atherosclerotic lesion size in male mice.

Conclusion

Whole-body AT1R inhibition reduced atherosclerosis equivalently in both male and female mice; however, PTC-specific manipulation of the RAS components had no effects on hypercholesterolemia-induced atherosclerosis.
AN1284 attenuates steatosis, lipogenesis, and fibrosis in mice with pre-existing non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and directly affects aryl hydrocarbon receptor in a hepatic cell line
Authors: Yehezkel Adi S. , Abudi Nathalie , Nevo Yuval , Benyamini Hadar , Elgavish Sharona , Weinstock Marta , Abramovitch Rinat
Published: August 2023

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an aggressive form of fatty liver disease with hepatic inflammation and fibrosis for which there is currently no drug treatment. This study determined whether an indoline derivative, AN1284, which significantly reduced damage in a model of acute liver disease, can reverse steatosis and fibrosis in mice with pre-existing NASH and explore its mechanism of action. The mouse model of dietary-induced NASH reproduces most of the liver pathology seen in human subjects. This was confirmed by RNA-sequencing analysis. The Western diet, given for 4 months, caused steatosis, inflammation, and liver fibrosis. AN1284 (1 mg or 5 mg/kg/day) was administered for the last 2 months of the diet by micro-osmotic-pumps (mps). Both doses significantly decreased hepatic damage, liver weight, hepatic fat content, triglyceride, serum alanine transaminase, and fibrosis. AN1284 (1 mg/kg/day) given by mps or in the drinking fluid significantly reduced fibrosis produced by carbon tetrachloride injections. In human HUH7 hepatoma cells incubated with palmitic acid, AN1284 (2.1 and 6.3 ng/ml), concentrations compatible with those in the liver of mice treated with AN1284, decreased lipid formation by causing nuclear translocation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). AN1284 downregulated fatty acid synthase (FASN) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) and upregulated Acyl-CoA Oxidase 1 and Cytochrome P450-a1, genes involved in lipid metabolism. In conclusion, chronic treatment with AN1284 (1mg/kg/day) reduced pre-existing steatosis and fibrosis through AhR, which affects several contributors to the development of fatty liver disease. Additional pathways are also influenced by AN1284 treatment.
Computer-interpretable guidelines: electronic tools to enhance the utility of thyroid nodule clinical practice guidelines and risk stratification tools
Authors: Garber Jeffrey R. , Patkar Vivek
Published: August 2023

Clinicians seeking guidance for evaluating and managing thyroid nodules currently have several resources. The principal ones are narrative clinical guidelines and clinical risk calculators. This paper will review the strengths and weaknesses of both. The paper will introduce a concept of computer interpretable guideline, a novel way of transforming narrative guidelines in to a clinical decision support tool that can provide patient specific recommendations at the point of care. The paper then describes an experience of developing an interactive web based computer interpretable guideline for thyroid nodule management, called Thyroid Nodule Management App (TNAPP). The advantages of this approach and the potential barriers for widespread adaptation are discussed.
Experimental study on flow-induced motion and energy conversion for two triangular prisms in tandem arrangement
Authors: Shao Nan , Xu Guobin , Wu Zhichuan , Liu Fang , Yan Xiang , Wang Xiaoqun
Published: August 2023

Experimental tests on two tandem triangular prisms were accomplished in synergistic flow-induced motion (FIM) to collect ocean current energy (OCE) with varied spacing ratios and Reynolds number ranges. Typical FIM responses and energy conversion are discussed and presented. The effects of parameters (system stiffness, spacing ratio, and load resistance) were considered to improve the energy harvesting of the system. The main findings can be summarized as follows: 1) with varied spacing ratios between the two tandem prisms, the active power (Pharn) was up to 1.95 times that of the single triangular prism (STP); 2) In general, the harnessed OCE capacity of the upstream triangular prism (UTP) was improved, while the energy harvesting of the downstream triangular prism (DTP) was suppressed by the interaction of the two prisms, 3) In the tests, electricity was generated atU= 0.516 m/s, and the active power, which consistently increased as flow velocity increased, reachedPharn= 32.24 W, with a corresponding efficiency ofηharn= 10.31%; and 4) The best energy conservation performance for harvesting the OCE occurred atL/D= 5, and the optimal load resistance was found atRL= 11 Ω.
Effects of plant diversity and big-sized trees on ecosystem function in a tropical montane evergreen broad-leaved forest
Authors: Li Shuaifeng , Lang Xuedong , Huang Xiaobo , Wang Yanhong , Tang Rong , Liu Wande , Xu Chonghua , Su Jianrong
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Scale dependencies play a vital role in defining the biodiversity-ecosystem functioning relationship in forest ecosystems, which varies based on the magnitude of multiple plant diversity attributes, soil properties, and aboveground biomass in forest ecosystems. However, the effects of plant diversity and big-sized trees on the relationship between plant diversity and aboveground biomass across different scales remain unclear in forest ecosystems.

Methods

Based on a 30-ha tropical montane evergreen broad-leaved forest dynamics plot in Yunnan province, China, we comparatively analyzed the importance of scale-dependent effects of multiple plant diversity attributes, soil properties, neighborhood competition intensity and aboveground biomass of big-sized trees, as well as stand structural complexity on aboveground biomass of all woody individuals. The aim is therefore to identify the main predictors for sustaining aboveground biomass of all woody individuals, considering multiple biotic and abiotic factors jointly, as well as underlying mechanisms.

Results

Our results suggest that indicators such as species richness and phylogenetic diversity did not strongly contribute to aboveground biomass of all woody individuals with increasing spatial scales, while aboveground biomass of big-sized trees exhibited the greatest contribution to aboveground biomass of all woody individuals. Stand structural complexity, characterized by variances in woody plant diameter at breast height, also contributed more to aboveground biomass of all woody individuals indirectly via neighborhood competition intensity and aboveground biomass of big-sized trees. Contributions of functional dispersion and community-weighted mean of leaf phosphorus concentration to aboveground biomass of all woody individuals became stronger with increasing spatial scales. Neighborhood competition intensity exhibited a negative linear relationship with aboveground biomass of all woody individuals at the smallest scale, but it affected positively aboveground biomass of all woody individuals across spatial scales, likely due to indirect effects via aboveground biomass of big-sized trees.

Discussion

Big-sized trees will likely become more important in biodiversity maintenance and ecosystem function management as deforestation and forest degradation.
Alkaloids from millipedes: a re-evaluation of defensive exudates from Polyzonium germanicum
Authors: Kunert Olaf , Pferschy-Wenzig Eva Maria , Orthaber Andreas , Raspotnig Günther , Bodner Michaela
Published: August 2023

Millipedes are known to produce various sets of chemical compounds in exocrine defensive glands to protect themselves against predators and microorganisms. Here, we reanalyzed the gland secretion of Polyzonium germanicum, a millipede of the order Polyzoniida, by using a combination of analytical techniques such as GC-MS, LC-HRMS and high field 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. Previously only one compound (polyzonimine, 1) had been described, but our approach allowed us to add six compounds to the defensive chemistry of this species. Besides polyzonimine (1), we found nitropolyzonamine (2) and five new compounds: 3 (2,3-dimethyl-7’-nitro-2’,3’,5’,6’,7’,7a’-hexahydrospiro[cyclopent-2-ene-1,1’-pyrrolizine]), 4 (2,3-dimethyl-7’-nitro-2’,3’,5’,6’,7’,7a’-hexahydrospiro[cyclopentane-1,1’-pyrrolizin]-2-ene), 5 ((1Z)-8,9-dimethyl-1-(nitromethylidene)-2-azaspiro[4.4]non-8-en-7-one), and not fully identified compounds A, B. For compounds 3–5 we were able to determine the molecular constitution, for two of them (4, 5) we were able to give relative configurations. Overall, the combination of advanced analytical techniques applied herein allowed detailed insights into the defensive chemistry of P. germanicum with a low number of individuals needed for analysis and without prior compound isolation.
Properdin inhibition ameliorates hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury without interfering with liver regeneration in mice
Authors: Kusakabe Jiro , Hata Koichiro , Tajima Tetsuya , Miyauchi Hidetaka , Zhao Xiangdong , Kageyama Shoichi , Tsuruyama Tatsuaki , Hatano Etsuro
Published: August 2023

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) often causes serious complications in liver surgeries, including transplantation. Complement activation seems to be involved in hepatic IRI; however, no complement-targeted intervention has been clinically applied. We investigated the therapeutic potential of Properdin-targeted complement regulation in hepatic IRI. Male wild-type mice (B10D2/nSn) were exposed to 90-minute partial hepatic IRI to the left and median lobes with either monoclonal anti-Properdin-antibody (Ab) or control-immunoglobulin (IgG) administration. Since the complement system is closely involved in liver regeneration, the influence of anti-Properdin-Ab on liver regeneration was also evaluated in a mouse model of 70% partial hepatectomy. Anti-Properdin-Ab significantly reduced serum transaminases and histopathological damages at 2 and 6 hours after reperfusion (P <0.001, respectively). These improvements at 2 hours was accompanied by significant reductions in CD41+ platelet aggregation (P =0.010) and ssDNA+ cells (P <0.001), indicating significant amelioration in hepatic microcirculation and apoptosis, respectively. Characteristically, F4/80+ cells representing macrophages, mainly Kupffer cells, were maintained by anti-Properdin-Ab (P <0.001). Western blot showed decreased phosphorylation of only Erk1/2 among MAPKs (P =0.004). After 6 hours of reperfusion, anti-Properdin-Ab significantly attenuated the release of HMGB-1, which provokes the release of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines (P =0.002). Infiltration of CD11b+ and Ly6-G+ cells, representing infiltrating macrophages and neutrophils, respectively, were significantly alleviated by anti-Properdin-Ab (both P <0.001). Notably, anti-Properdin-Ab did not affect remnant liver weight and BrdU+ cells at 48 hours after 70% partial hepatectomy (P =0.13 and 0.31, respectively). In conclusion, Properdin inhibition significantly ameliorates hepatic IRI without interfering with liver regeneration.
Cardiac dysfunction in severe pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome: the right ventricle in search of the right therapy
Authors: Webb Lece , Burton Luke , Manchikalapati Ananya , Prabhakaran Priya , Loberger Jeremy M. , Richter Robert P.
Published: August 2023

Severe acute respiratory distress syndrome in children, or PARDS, carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality that is not fully explained by PARDS severity alone. Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction can be an insidious and often under-recognized complication of severe PARDS that may contribute to its untoward outcomes. Indeed, recent evidence suggest significantly worse outcomes in children who develop RV failure in their course of PARDS. However, in this narrative review, we highlight the dearth of evidence regarding the incidence of and risk factors for PARDS-associated RV dysfunction. While we wish to draw attention to the absence of available evidence that would inform recommendations around surveillance and treatment of RV dysfunction during severe PARDS, we leverage available evidence to glean insights into potentially helpful surveillance strategies and therapeutic approaches.
Clinical efficacy and drug resistance of ceftazidime-avibactam in the treatment of Carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli infection
Authors: Xiao Shuang , Fu Qianwen , Miao Youhan , Zhao Manna , Lu Shengwei , Xu Jie , Zhao Weifeng
Published: August 2023

Objective

To examine the clinical efficacy, safety, and resistance of Ceftazidime-Avibactam (CAZ-AVI) in patients with Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (CR-GNB) infections.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed relevant data of CR-GNB infected patients receiving CAZ-AVI treatment, analyzed relevant factors affecting drug efficacy, and compared the efficacy and safety with patients receiving Polymyxin B treatment.

Results

A total of 139 patients were included. Agranulocytosis, septic shock, SOFA score, and CAZ-AVI treatment course were independent risk factors affecting the prognosis of patients with CR-GNB infection treated with CAZ-AVI while prolonging the treatment course of CAZ-AVI was the only protective factor for bacterial clearance. The fundamental indicators showed no statistically significant differences between CAZ-AVI and Polymyxin B treatment groups. At the same time, the proportion of patients treated with monotherapy was significantly higher in the CAZ-AVI group than in the Polymyxin B group (37.2% vs. 8.9%, p < 0.05), the 30-day mortality rate of the CAZ-AVI treatment group (27.7% vs. 46.7%, p = 0.027) was lower than that of the Polymyxin B treatment group. The 30-day clinical cure rate (59.6% vs. 40% p = 0.030) and 14-day microbiological clearance rate (42.6% vs. 24.4%, p = 0.038) were significantly higher in the CAZ-AVI than in the Polymyxin B treatment group. Eighty nine patients were monitored for CAZ-AVI resistance, and the total resistance rate was 14.6% (13/89). The resistance rates of Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) and Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) to CAZ-AVI were 13.5 and 15.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

CAZ-AVI has shown high clinical efficacy and bacterial clearance in treating CR-GNB infections. Compared with Polymyxin B, CAZ-AVI significantly improved the outcome of mechanical ventilation in patients with septic shock, agranulocytosis, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients, bloodstream infection, and patients with SOFA score > 6, and had a lower incidence of adverse events. We monitored the emergence of CAZ-AVI resistance and should strengthen the monitoring of drug susceptibility in clinical practice and the rational selection of antibiotic regimens to delay the onset of resistance.
Nutrition policy critical to optimize response to climate, public health crises
Authors: Rifkin Mark E.
Published: August 2023

The effects of unanticipated crises on health care and first-responder systems are reflected in climate-fueled environmental emergencies, to which human resilience is diminished by our chronic disease epidemic. For example, people who depend on specialized medications, like refrigerated insulin for diabetes, will likely face additional challenges in receiving treatment and care during extreme heat, floods, disasters, and other adverse events. These circumstances may be compounded by staff and equipment shortages, lack of access to fresh food, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure in the wake of a disaster. Simply put, our health care and first-response systems struggle to meet the demands of chronic disease without such crises and may be fundamentally unable to adequately function with such crises present. However, nutrition’s primacy in preventing and controlling chronic disease directly enhances individual and public resilience in the face of existential threats. Highlighting the shared diet-related etiology clearly demonstrates the need for a national policy response to reduce the disease burden and potentiate mitigation of the sequelae of climate risks and capacity limits in our food and health care systems. Accordingly, this article proposes four criteria for nutrition policy in the Anthropocene: objective government nutrition recommendations, healthy dietary patterns, adequate nutrition security, and effective nutrition education. Application of such criteria shows strong potential to improve our resiliency despite the climate and public health crises.
Evaluation of MRI in the diagnostic accuracy of extrahepatic metastases in neuroendocrine tumors in comparison with the reference standard somatostatin-receptor–PET/CT
Authors: Ingenerf Maria , Rübenthaler Johannes , Wenter Vera , Zacherl Mathias , Völter Friederike , Winkelmann Michael , Karim Homeira , Schinner Regina , Ricke Jens , Berger Frank , Schmid-Tannwald Christine
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic performance of different sets of MR sequences in detecting extrahepatic disease of NETs on routine liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Method

One hundred twenty-seven patients with NETs with and without hepatic and extrahepatic metastases who underwent liver MRI and SSTR-PET/CT were retrospectively analyzed. Two radiologists evaluated in consensus in four sessions: (1) non-contrast T1w+T2w (NC), (2) NC+DWI, (3) NC+ contrast-enhanced T1w (CE), and (4) NC+DWI+CE the presence and number of metastases (lymph nodes, bone, peritoneal surface, lung base, and abdominal organ). Sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive value for detection of metastases were calculated for each session in a patient-based manner; detection and error rates were calculated for lesion-based analysis. Comparison between the MR-sessions and positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT) was performed with the McNemar test.

Results

Regarding all 1,094 lesions detected in PET/CT, NC+DWI, and NC, CE+DWI identified most true-positive lesions 779 (71%) and 775 (71%), respectively. Patient-based analysis revealed significantly higher sensitivity by NC+DWI (85%) than NC and NC+CE (p = 0.011 and 0.004, respectively); the highest specificity was reached by NC+CE+DWI (100%). Site-based analysis revealed highest detection rates for lymph node metastases for NC+DWI and NC, CE+DWI (73 and 76%, respectively); error rates were lower for NC, CE+DWI with 5% compared with 17% (NC+DWI). Detection rates for bone metastases were similarly high in NC+DWI and NC, CE+DWI (75 and 74%, respectively), while CE showed no benefit. For peritoneal metastases highest sensitivity was reached by NC+DWI (67%).

Conclusion

The combination of NC+DWI showed better sensitivities than the combination of NC+CE. NC+DWI showed similar, sometimes even better sensitivities than NC+CE+DWI, but with lower specificities.
Chest compression rates of 60/min versus 90/min during neonatal cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a randomized controlled animal trial
Authors: Bruckner Marlies , O'Reilly Megan , Lee Tze-Fun , Cheung Po-Yin , Schmölzer Georg M.
Published: August 2023

Background

To compare chest compression (CC) rates of 60/min with 90/min and their effect on the time to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), survival, hemodynamic, and respiratory parameters. We hypothesized that asphyxiated newborn piglets that received CC at 60/min vs. 90/min during cardiopulmonary resuscitation would have a shorter time to ROSC.

Methods

Newborn piglets (n = 7/group) were anesthetized, tracheotomized and intubated, instrumented and exposed to 45 min normocapnic hypoxia followed by asphyxia and cardiac arrest. Piglets were randomly allocated to a CC rate of 60/min or 90/min. CC was performed using an automated CC machine using CC superimposed with sustained inflation. Hemodynamic parameters, respiratory parameters, and applied compression force were continuously measured.

Results

The mean (IQR) time to ROSC was 97 (65–149) s and 136 (88–395) s for CC rates of 60/min and 90/min, respectively (p = 0.31). The number of piglets that achieved ROSC was 5 (71%) and 5 (71%) with 60/min and 90/min CC rates, respectively (p = 1.00). Hemodynamic parameters (i.e., diastolic and mean blood pressure, carotid blood flow, stroke volume, end-diastolic volume, left ventricular contractile function) and respiratory parameters (i.e., minute ventilation, peak inflation and peak expiration flow) were all similar with a CC rate of 60/min compared to 90/min.

Conclusion

Time to ROSC, hemodynamic, and respiratory parameters were not significantly different between CC rates of 60/min vs. 90/min. Different CC rates during neonatal resuscitation warrant further investigation.
Role of traditional Chinese medicine monomers in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury:a review of the mechanism
Authors: Zheng Ting , Jiang Taotao , Huang Zilong , Ma Hongxiang , Wang Manxia
Published: August 2023

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a pathological process wherein reperfusion of an ischemic organ or tissue exacerbates the injury, posing a significant health threat and economic burden to patients and their families. I/R triggers a multitude of physiological and pathological events, such as inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, neuronal cell death, and disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Hence, the development of effective therapeutic strategies targeting the pathological processes resulting from I/R is crucial for the rehabilitation and long-term enhancement of the quality of life in patients with cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI). Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) monomers refer to bioactive compounds extracted from Chinese herbal medicine, possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects, and the ability to modulate programmed cell death (PCD). TCM monomers have emerged as promising candidates for the treatment of CIRI and its subsequent complications. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that TCM monomers can enhance the recovery of neurological function following CIRI by mitigating oxidative stress, suppressing inflammatory responses, reducing neuronal cell death and functional impairment, as well as minimizing cerebral infarction volume. The neuroprotective effects of TCM monomers on CIRI have been extensively investigated, and a comprehensive understanding of their mechanisms can pave the way for novel approaches to I/R treatment. This review aims to update and summarize evidence of the protective effects of TCMs in CIRI, with a focus on their role in modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, PCD, glutamate excitotoxicity, Ca2+ overload, as well as promoting blood-brain barrier repairment and angiogenesis. The main objective is to underscore the significant contribution of TCM monomers in alleviating CIRI.
Comparative pharmacokinetics and safety evaluation of high dosage regimens of Andrographis paniculata aqueous extract after single and multiple oral administration in healthy participants
Authors: Songvut Phanit , Rangkadilok Nuchanart , Pholphana Nanthanit , Suriyo Tawit , Panomvana Duangchit , Puranajoti Porranee , Akanimanee Jaratluck , Satayavivad Jutamaad
Published: August 2023

Background:The prolonged situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the emergence of new variants of SARS-CoV-2, not only imposes a financial burden on healthcare supports but also contributes to the issue of medication shortages, particularly in countries with limited access to medical resources or developing countries. To provide an alternative therapeutic approach during this crisis, there is an increasing research that has investigated the potential uses ofAndrographis paniculatain supporting the application of herbal medicine for COVID-19.

Purpose:This study aimed to investigate the safety profiles and clinical pharmacokinetics, specifically focusing on dose proportionality of the four major active diterpenoids ofAndrographis paniculataaqueous extract following oral administration of two different high doses of andrographolide.

Methods:The participants received the aqueous extract capsules equivalent to 60 or 120 mg of andrographolide; and as multiple doses administered three times daily, calculated as 180 or 360 mg/day of andrographolide. Safety evaluation was assessed following the oral administration of the multiple doses.

Results:The results indicated a dose-dependent effect observed between the respective two doses. A twofold increase in the dose of the extract demonstrated twofold higher plasma concentrations of the four major parent compounds; 1) andrographolide, 2) 14-deoxy-11, 12-didehydroandrographolide, 3) neoandrographolide, and 4) 14-deoxyandrographolide, as well as their conjugated metabolites. The observed diterpenoids are biotransformed partly through a phase II metabolic pathway of conjugation, thus reducing in the parent compounds in the plasma and existing the majority as conjugated metabolites. These metabolites are then excreted through the hepatobiliary system and urinary elimination. For the results of the safety evaluation, the occasional adverse events experienced by individuals were of mild intensity, infrequent in occurrence, and reversible to the normal baseline. Safety consideration should be given to the individual patient’s pertinent health conditions when using this extract in patients with hepatic or kidney dysfunction.

Clinical Trial Registration:https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20210201005; Identifier: TCTR20210201005.
Diosgenin normalization of disrupted behavioral and central neurochemical activity after single prolonged stress
Authors: Malik Hurmat , Usman Muhammad , Arif Mehreen , Ahmed Zainab , Ali Gowhar , Rauf Khalid , Sewell Robert D. E.
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic mental illness triggered by traumatic experiences such as wars, natural disasters, or catastrophes, and it is characterized by anxiety, depression and cognitive impairment. Diosgenin is a steroidal sapogenin with known neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. This study aimed to assess the pharmacological potential of diosgenin in a single prolonged stress (SPS) model of PTSD, plus other behavioral models along with any consequent alterations in brain neurochemistry in male mice.

Methodology: SPS was induced by restraining animals for 2 h, followed by 20 min of forced swim, recuperation for 15 min, and finally, exposure to ether to induce anesthesia. The SPS-exposed animals were treated with diosgenin (20, 40, and 60 mg/kg) and compared with the positive controls, fluoxetine or donepezil, then they were observed for any changes in anxiety/depression-like behaviors, and cognitive impairment. After behavioral screening, postmortem serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine, vitamin C, adenosine and its metabolites inosine and hypoxanthine were quantified in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, and striatum by high-performance liquid chromatography. Additionally, animal serum was screened for changes in corticosterone levels.

Results: The results showed that diosgenin reversed anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, and ameliorated cognitive impairment in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, diosgenin restored monoamine and vitamin C levels dose-dependently and modulated adenosine and its metabolites in the brain regions. Diosgenin also reinstated otherwise increased serum corticosterone levels in SPS mice.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that diosgenin may be a potential candidate for improving symptoms of PTSD.
Botanical drugs for treating erectile dysfunction: clinical evidence
Authors: Xu Dengjianyi , Zhang Yucong , Bai Jian , Yuan Huixing , Wang Tao , Liu Jihong , Song Wen , Ma Delin
Published: August 2023

Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5-i) have been widely used in clinical practice for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). However, due to its suboptimal therapeutic effects and side effects, it is necessary to develop new medicines for ED treatment. Botanical drugs have been widely investigated as potential ED treatment drugs and have shown promising therapeutic effects. This review summarized 34 studies, including five botanical drugs with PDE5 inhibitory activity, seven botanical drugs without PDE5 inhibitory activity, and six mixed botanical drugs. The results of clinical studies regarding the aforementioned botanical drugs and relevant mechanisms are summarized in this study. It is necessary to conduct high-quality clinical trials to verify the dosage, targeted patients and therapeutic effects, and further pharmacology experiments are also needed to identify the active compounds.
Effects of aerobic exercise and dietary flavonoids on cognition: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Joseph Daren Kumar , Mat Ludin Arimi Fitri , Ibrahim Farah Wahida , Ahmadazam Amalina , Che Roos Nur Aishah , Shahar Suzana , Rajab Nor Fadilah
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Studies have shown that exercise increases angiogenesis and perfusion in the hippocampus, activates neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and increases synaptic plasticity, as well as increases the complexity and number of dendritic spines, all of which promote memory function and protect against cognitive decline. Flavonoids are gaining attention as antioxidants in health promotion due to their rich phenolic content, particularly for their modulating role in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Despite this, there has been no comprehensive review of cognitive improvement supplemented with flavonoid and prescribed with exercise or a combination of the two interventions has been conducted. The purpose of this review is to determine whether a combined intervention produces better results when given together than when given separately.

Methods: Relevant articles assessing the effect of physical exercise, flavonoid or in combination on cognitive related biomarkers and neurobehavioral assessments within the timeline of January 2011 until June 2023 were searched using three databases; PubMed, PROQUEST and SCOPUS.

Results: A total of 705 articles were retrieved and screened, resulting in 108 studies which are in line with the objective of the current study were included in the analysis.

Discussion: The selected studies have shown significant desired effect on the chosen biomarkers and neurobehavioral assessments.

Systematic Review Registration: identifier: [CRD42021271001].
The embodied mind in motion: a neuroscientific and philosophical perspective on prevention and therapy of dementia
Authors: Dzwiza-Ohlsen Erik N. , Kempermann Gerd
Published: August 2023

The embodied mind in motion is a concept in which health and well-being, prevention and therapy, as well as lifestyle and habits meet. The mind changes profoundly in the course of dementias, affecting daily living and resulting in reduced quality of life. Interdisciplinary approaches are required for a holistic understanding of how the mind is affected by dementia. We here explore what such a holistic theory of dementia might look like and propose the idea of “embodied mind in motion”. The paradigm is biopsychosocial or biocultural, the theoretical anchor point is the lifeworld, and the guiding concept is “embodiment,” as body and mind are constantly in motion. Physical activity is, hence, central for the experience of health and well-being, beyond being “exercise” and “health behavior”. We discuss the embodied mind in motion referring to phenomenology, enactivism and (philosophical) anthropology. In our view, habits are embodied long-term memories and a philosophical equivalent to lifestyle. They unfold the meaningfulness of moving the body, complementing the objectifiable benefits of physical exercise. Empirical studies on “holistic activities” like hiking, yoga, music and dance illustrate improved integration into everyday life. Their meaningfulness enhances compliance and increases the preventive and even therapeutic potential. A crucial factor for this is the emotional dimension of lifestyle, exemplified by the virally popularized performance of “Swan Lake” by wheel-chair bound ex-ballerina Marta Cinta González Saldaña, suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. A number of epistemological and ontological consequences anchor “embodied movement” as a valuable principle for dementia research.
An intersectional lens on young leaders: bias toward young women and young men in leadership positions
Authors: Daldrop Christoph , Buengeler Claudia , Homan Astrid C.
Published: August 2023

Research has recognized age biases against young leaders, yet understanding of how gender, the most frequently studied demographic leader characteristic, influences this bias remains limited. In this study, we examine the gender-specific age bias toward young female and young male leaders through an intersectional lens. By integrating intersectionality theory with insights on status beliefs associated with age and gender, we test whether young female and male leaders face an interactive rather than an additive form of bias. We conducted two preregistered experimental studies (N1 = 918 and N2 = 985), where participants evaluated leaders based on age, gender, or a combination of both. Our analysis reveals a negative age bias in leader status ascriptions toward young leaders compared to middle-aged and older leaders. This bias persists when gender information is added, as demonstrated in both intersectional categories of young female and young male leaders. This bias pattern does not extend to middle-aged or older female and male leaders, thereby supporting the age bias against young leaders specifically. Interestingly, we also examined whether social dominance orientation strengthens the bias against young (male) leaders, but our results (reported in the SOM) are not as hypothesized. In sum, our results emphasize the importance of young age as a crucial demographic characteristic in leadership perceptions that can even overshadow the role of gender.
The resilience of Jewish communities living in the diaspora: a scoping review
Authors: Meijer Judith E. M. , Machielse Anja , Smid Geert E. , Schats Winnie , Jong Miek C.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Throughout history, Jewish communities have been exposed to collectively experienced traumatic events. Little is known about the role that the community plays in the impact of these traumatic events on Jewish diaspora people. This scoping review aims to map the concepts of the resilience of Jewish communities in the diaspora and to identify factors that influence this resilience.

Methods

We followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. Database searches yielded 2,564 articles. Sixteen met all inclusion criteria. The analysis was guided by eight review questions.

Results

Community resilience of the Jewish diaspora was often described in terms of coping with disaster and struggling with acculturation. A clear definition of community resilience of the Jewish diaspora was lacking. Social and religious factors, strong organizations, education, and communication increased community resilience. Barriers to the resilience of Jewish communities in the diaspora included the interaction with the hosting country and other communities, characteristics of the community itself, and psychological and cultural issues.

Discussion

Key gaps in the literature included the absence of quantitative measures of community resilience and the lack of descriptions of how community resilience affects individuals’ health-related quality of life. Future studies on the interaction between community resilience and health-related individual resilience are warranted.