bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endotheliitis and cytokine storm as a mechanism of clot formation in COVID-19 ischemic stroke patients: A histopathologic study of retrieved clots
Authors: Brinjikji Waleed , Kallmes David F , Virmani Renu , de Meyer Simon F , Yoo Albert J , Humphries William , Zaidat Osama O , Teleb Mohamed S , Jones Jesse G , Siddiqui Adnan H , Andersson Tommy , Nogueira Raul G , Gil Sara Molina , Douglas Andrew , Rossi Rosanna , Rentzos Alexander , Ceder Erik , Carlqvist Jeanette , Dunker Dennis , Jood Katarina , Tatlisumak Turgut , Doyle Karen M
Published: September 2023

Background

Studies during the COVID-19 pandemic have demonstrated an association between COVID-19 virus infection and the development of acute ischemic stroke, particularly large vessel occlusion (LVO). Studying the characteristics and immunohistochemistry of retrieved stroke emboli during mechanical thrombectomy for LVO may offer insights into the pathogenesis of LVO in COVID-19 patients. We examined retrieved COVID-19 emboli from the STRIP, EXCELLENT, and RESTORE registries and compared their characteristics to a control group.

Methods

We identified COVID-positive LVO patients from the STRIP, RESTORE, and EXCELLENT studies who underwent mechanical thrombectomy. These patients were matched to a control group controlling for stroke etiology based on Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment criteria. All clots were stained with Martius Scarlet Blue (MSB) along with immunohistochemistry for interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), von Willebrand factor (vWF), CD66b, fibrinogen, and citrullinated Histone H3. Clot composition was compared between groups.

Results

Nineteen COVID-19-positive patients and 38 controls were included. COVID-19-positive patients had a significantly higher percentage of CRP and vWF. There was no difference in IL-6, fibrin, CD66b, or citrullinated Histone H3 between groups. Based on MSB staining, there was no statistically significant difference regarding the percentage of red blood cells, white blood cells, fibrin, and platelets.

Conclusions

Our study found higher concentrations of CRP and vWF in retrieved clots of COVID-19-positive stroke patients compared to COVID-19-negative controls. These findings support the potential role of systemic inflammation as indicated by elevated CRP and endothelial injury as indicated by elevated vWF as precipitating factors in thrombus development in these patients.
Role of the Notch signaling pathway in regulating macrophage polarization in a rat model of fibrotic pigeon breeder’s lung
Authors: Wang Wenyi , Shen Yaoyuan , Leng Qiuping , Ding Wei , Peng Zhen , Zhou Yuan , Yang Xiaohong , Wu Chao
Published: September 2023

Objectives: The Notch signaling pathway serves as the key regulator of the biological functions of macrophages and may affect the role of macrophages in the development of pigeon breeder’s lung (PBL). This study investigated the possible association of the Notch signaling pathway with the development of fibrotic PBL based on regulation of the polarization of macrophages.

Methods: Normal Sprague‒Dawley rats and rats with pigeon exfoliation-induced fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis were selected. DAPT was used to inhibit the Notch signaling pathway in rats, and pulmonary fibrosis, the Notch signaling pathway, macrophage polarization, and dynamic changes in the Th1/Th2 ratio were observed.

Results: The levels of key proteins in the Notch signaling pathway were higher in the lung tissues of rats with fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis than in those of normal controls ( p < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of the M1 marker genes tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were lower in the lung macrophages of rats with fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis than in those of normal controls. In contrast, the mRNA expression levels of the M2 marker genes Mrc2 and Arg-1 in macrophages were higher in the rats with pneumonitis than in normal controls ( p < 0.05). The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid Th1/Th2 ratio was lower in the fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis group than in the control group, but this trend was reversed DAPT application ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Notch pathway receptors and ligands activate the inflammatory response of macrophages and participate in the polarization of macrophages to the M1 type. Inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway plays a role in Th1/Th2 imbalance.
Ideology and cognitive stereotypes in media representation of the Russia–Ukraine conflict
Authors: Ononiwu Charles
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the representation of the Russia–Ukraine conflict by two state-owned Russian news media and two state-owned Ukrainian news media, namely Izvestia, Russia Today, Ukrinform and Dzerkalo Tyzhnia. The aim of this investigation is to determine the ideologies embedded in the news reports and discourse structures, and strategies deployed in portraying the conflict actors and their actions. Van Dijk’s socio-cognitive model of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) (see Ideology: A Multidisciplinary Approach, 1998; New(s) racism: A discourse analytical approach, 2000; and Politics, ideology, and discourse, 2006) and Martin and White’s Appraisal Framework of attitude and graduation (see The Language of Evaluation: Appraisal in English, 2005) served as the theoretical frameworks. Using Critical Discourse Analysis as the analytical framework, the study examines how attitudinal and evaluative language use are employed to enact ideologies and to portray biased presentations of conflict actors. The findings reveal that the media reports of the Russia–Ukraine conflict are laden with militarism and nationalism. Discourse structures and strategies of emotive verbs, evaluative adjectives, positive self-presentation, negative other-presentation, national self-glorification, actor description, comparison and number games are powerful tools for enacting ideologies. The media representation of the Russia–Ukraine conflict lacked conflict resolution embedded linguistic frames and is rather distorted, stereotypic and conflict-inciting.
The new normal: a review of the impact of COVID-19 on gastroenterology fellowship training
Authors: Makhani Salima , Morales Jaclyn , Whitson Matthew J.
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on medical education and gastroenterology fellowship training. As a result of the pandemic, a trainee’s physical safety, mental health and wellness, clinical and procedural training, and educational opportunities were all potentially altered. Changes necessitated at the start of the pandemic were different than those needed further along in the pandemic course. Fellowship programs were required to modify policies and adapt to changes rapidly to advocate for their trainees and ensure quality education. Much of COVID-19’s initial impact on education – decreased endoscopic procedures and the loss of educational conferences – has largely returned to pre-pandemic form. However, other changes made during the pandemic have persisted and likely will continue in the future. This includes a virtual interview format for fellowship matches, a virtual option for many national conferences, and an expansion of simulation training. This article reviews the impact that COVID-19 had on medical education with a specific focus on gastroenterology fellowship. The paper highlights the initial impact of COVID-19, the lingering effects, and discusses the areas needed for further research to best understand the total impact COVID-19 had on our trainees’ education.
Crohn-like disease long remission in a pediatric patient with glycogen storage disease type Ib treated with empagliflozin: a case report
Authors: Calia Margherita , Arosio Andrea Mario Luciano , Crescitelli Viola , Fornari Anna , Pretese Roberta , Gasperini Serena , Zuin Giovanna
Published: September 2023

Glycogen storage disease type Ib (GSD Ib) is a rare hereditary glycogen disorder that results in inadequate maintenance of glucose homeostasis, accumulation of glycogen in different organs, loss and dysfunction of neutrophils. Crohn’s-like disease is observed in up to 24–77% of GDS Ib cases. Recently, empagliflozin has been recommended as a treatment for neutrophil dysfunction in GDS Ib patients with or without Crohn’s-like disease. There are no guidelines for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) manifestation in GSD Ib patients, although some cases have been treated with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and others with IBD conventional therapy, resulting in partial IBD remission. Herein, we describe a child with GDS Ib and Crohn’s-like disease who was treated with empagliflozin and achieved complete remission after 2 years of treatment. This case is the first one with such a long follow-up evaluation including endoscopic and magnetic resonance enterography assessment. Our clinical evidence of remission of IBD manifestation in our GSD Ib patient and the role of neutrophils in GDS Ib described in the literature suggest a strong association with IBD pathophysiology and neutrophil function. The use of empagliflozin resulted in significant improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms, reduced drug usage, and enhanced quality of life in the patient, with a favorable safety profile, offering a promising new therapeutic option for this population.
Exploring the mechanism of metformin action in Alzheimer’s disease and type 2 diabetes based on network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamic simulation
Authors: Shi Xin , Li Lingling , Liu Zhiyao , Wang Fangqi , Huang Hailiang
Published: September 2023

Background:

Metformin, which has been shown to be highly effective in treating type 2 diabetes (T2D), is also believed to be valuable for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Computer simulation techniques have emerged as an innovative approach to explore mechanisms.

Objective:

To study the potential mechanism of metformin action in AD and T2D.

Methods:

The chemical structure of metformin was obtained from PubChem. The targets of metformin were obtained from PubChem, Pharm Mapper, Batman, SwissTargetPrediction, DrugBank, and PubMed. The pathogenic genes of AD and T2D were retrieved from the GeneCards, OMIM, TTD, Drugbank, PharmGKB, and DisGeNET. The intersection of metformin with the targets of AD and T2D is represented by a Venn diagram. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) and core targets networks of intersected targets were constructed by Cytoscape 3.7.1. The enrichment information of GO and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomics (KEGG) pathways obtained by the Metascape was made into a bar chart and a bubble diagram. AutoDockTools, Pymol, and Chem3D were used for the molecular docking. Gromacs software was used to perform molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of the best binding target protein.

Results:

A total of 115 key targets of metformin for AD and T2D were obtained. GO analysis showed that biological process mainly involved response to hormones and the regulation of ion transport. Cellular component was enriched in the cell body and axon. Molecular function mainly involved kinase binding and signal receptor regulator activity. The KEGG pathway was mainly enriched in pathways of cancer, neurodegeneration, and endocrine resistance. Core targets mainly included TP53, TNF, VEGFA, HIF1A, IL1B, IGF1, ESR1, SIRT1, CAT, and CXCL8. The molecular docking results showed best binding of metformin to CAT. MD simulation further indicated that the CAT-metformin complex could bind well and converge relatively stable at 30 ns.

Conclusion:

Metformin exerts its effects on regulating oxidative stress, gluconeogenesis and inflammation, which may be the mechanism of action of metformin to improve the common pathological features of T2D and AD.
Hypercoagulable state in patients with schizophrenia: different effects of acute and chronic antipsychotic medications
Authors: Zheng Caiji , Liu Haiyan , Tu Weifeng , Lin Lingyun , Xu Haiyun
Published: September 2023

Background:

Previous studies reported higher incidences of venous thromboembolism and cardiovascular disease in schizophrenia patients and higher indicators of thrombosis, thrombocyte activation, and platelet dysfunction.

Objectives:

To check if first-episode schizophrenia (FES) patients have a hypercoagulable state and determine whether acute and chronic antipsychotics have the same effect on blood coagulation or fibrinolysis-related biomarkers.

Design:

Case-control study.

Methods:

A total of 81 participants were grouped in FES, chronic schizophrenia (CS), and healthy controls (HCs). In addition to demographic data and clinical characteristics, immunological analyses were performed to measure plasma levels of D-dimer, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), soluble P selectin (sP-sel), tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), thrombotic precursor protein (TpP), and von Willebrand’s disease factor (vWF).

Results:

Compared to HC group, FES patients showed higher PAI-1 (28.61 ng/ml versus 15.69 ng/ml), sP-sel (2.78 ng/ml versus 1.18 ng/ml), and TpP (15.61 µg/ml versus 5.59 µg/ml) along with a higher PAI-1/tPA (3.12 versus 2.00). Acute antipsychotic medication reduced higher PAI-1 (28.61 → 21.99), sP-sel (2.78 → 1.87), tPA (9.59 → 5.83), TpP (15.61 → 10.54), and vWF (383.18 → 291.08) in FES patients. However, plasma sP-sel and vWF in CS patients returned to the pre-treatment levels in FES patients, and PAI-1/tPA significantly decreased compared to FES patients.

Conclusion:

These results suggest a hypercoagulable state in FES patients and demonstrate contrast effects of acute and chronic antipsychotics on coagulation or fibrinolysis in schizophrenia patients.
Temporal processing tele-intervention improves language, attention, and memory in children with neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Chan Agnes S , Sze Sophia L , Cheung Mei-Chun
Published: September 2023

Objective

Temporal processing is the brain's ability to process rapid successive stimuli, and children with neurodevelopmental disorders showed temporal processing deficits. Empirical evidence suggests that in-person intervention on temporal processing improves various cognitive functions of these children, and the present study aimed to study the effects of temporal processing tele-intervention (TPT) on the cognitive functions of children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Methods

Ninety-five children with neurodevelopmental disorders were recruited and randomly assigned to remotely receive either TPT or conventional language remediation (CLR) in 20 parallel group-based intervention sessions once per week. Their cognitive functions were assessed before and after the intervention.

Results

The TPT group demonstrated a specific and significant improvement in working memory ( p < .001). While there was an overall significant improvement in sustained attention in terms of processing speed after both types of intervention ( p = .006), the positive effects of TPT might be more prominent than that of CLR given the significant pre–post difference after receiving TPT ( p = .012) but not CLR ( p = .21). Regarding rapid naming accuracy which had marginally significant improvement after the intervention ( p = .03), the trend of improvement in TPT ( p = .05) also seemed more apparent than that of CLR ( p = .18). Finally, the TPT group had significant improvement in word knowledge ( p < .001), rapid naming speed ( p < .001), sustained attention in terms of accuracy ( p < .001), and verbal learning and memory ( p < .01) to an extent similar to that of the CLR group.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that TPT can be a potential intervention for improving cognitive functions in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Clinical trial registration number: NCT05428657 at ClinicalTrials.gov ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/ ).
Proof-of-vaccination credentials for COVID-19 and considerations for future use of digital proof-of-immunization technologies: Results of an expert consultation
Authors: Greyson Devon , Pringle Wendy , Wilson Kumanan , Bettinger Julie A.
Published: September 2023

Objective

As part of COVID-19 pandemic control efforts, digital proof-of-vaccination credentials were launched in Canada in 2021–2022 following widespread vaccine availability. Given the controversy over proof-of-vaccination credentials—often colloquially called vaccine or immunization “passports”—it is imperative to document successes, shortcomings, and recommendations for any future uses.

Methods

This expert consultation applied inductive qualitative content analysis to online video interviews with key informants whose expertise ranged from ethics to public health to computer science to identify what we can learn from this experience with proof-of-vaccination credentials, and what decision-makers must keep in mind for possible future use of such technologies.

Results

There remains a lack of consensus regarding appropriate language and scope for digital proof-of-vaccination technologies, the respective roles of the technology sector versus government in design and implementation, and parameters for future use. However, experts agree on many recommendations, including the importance of clear communication, evidence-based rationale for the use of proof-of-vaccination credentials, multidisciplinary consultation including academic experts and the public, and the importance of pan-Canadian standards for accessibility and interoperability. Identified risks of use that emerged, and should be minimized in the future, include risks of coercion and backlash; threats to access, equity and privacy; and impacts such as costs of the technology and workload burden of enforcement and fraud detection.

Conclusions

There is much to learn from this first major use of digital proof-of-vaccination credentials. A full scientific review of the impacts on health and equity should be combined with expert recommendations to create pan-Canadian guidelines for the future use of digital proof-of-vaccination solutions.
Changes in patient perceptions regarding ChatGPT-written explanations on lifestyle modifications for preventing urolithiasis recurrence
Authors: Kim Seong Hwan , Tae Jong Hyun , Chang In Ho , Kim Tae-Hyoung , Myung Soon Chul , Nguyen Tuan Thanh , Choi Joongwon , Kim Jung Hoon , Kim Jin Wook , Lee Yong Seong , Choi Se Young
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Artificial Intelligence (AI) imitating human-like language, such as ChatGPT, has impacted lives throughout various multidisciplinary fields. However, despite these innovations, it is unclear how well its implementation will assist patients in clinical situations. We evaluated changes in patient perceptions regarding AI before and after reading a ChatGPT-written explanation.

Materials and methods

In total, 24 South Korean patients receiving urolithiasis treatment were surveyed through questionnaires. The ChatGPT explanatory note was provided between the first and second questionnaires, detailing lifestyle modifications for preventing urolithiasis recurrence. The study questionnaire was the Korean version of the General Attitudes toward Artificial Intelligence Scale, including positive and negative attitude items. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were accomplished to compare questionnaire scores before and after receiving the explanatory note. A linear regression analysis with stepwise elimination was used to assess variable (demographic data) accuracy in predicting outcomes.

Results

There were significant differences between total negative questionnaire scores pre- and post-surveys of ChatGPT, but not in the positive scores. Among variables, only education level significantly influenced mean score differences in the negative questionnaires.

Conclusions

The negative perception change among urolithiasis patients after receiving the explanatory note provided by the AI chatbot program was observed, evidencing that patients with lower education levels expressed a more negative response. The explanatory note provided by the AI chatbot program could provoke an adverse change in AI perception. Negative human responses must be considered to improve and adapt new technology in health care. Only through changing patient perspectives will upgraded AI technology integrate into medical healthcare.
Risk Factors Associated With Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation and Length of Stay After Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Kesumarini Dian , Widyastuti Yunita , Boom Cindy Elfira , Dinarti Lucia Kris
Published: September 2023

Background

This study examined preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data to identify factors that are associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) and prolonged intensive care unit length of stay (ICU LOS) in tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) patients undergoing repair surgery.

Methods

A retrospective study was carried out after approval from the institutional review board. All patients (age 0-52 years) who underwent TOF repair from January 2016 to September 2022 were included. Prolonged mechanical ventilation was defined as >24 h of ventilation, while prolonged ICU LOS was defined as ICU stay >3 days.

Results

A total of 922 patients were included, among whom 288 (31.2%) were intubated for >24 h and 222 (24.1%) stayed in ICU for >3 days. Younger age (odds ratio [OR] = 2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2-3.3, P = .007), lower weight (OR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.5, P = .003), and residual lesion (OR = 3.27, 95% CI 1.2-8.7, P = .017) were associated with PMV. Moreover, independent risk factors for prolonged ICU LOS are similar to PMV risk factors, including younger age (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.28-4.12, P = .005), lower weight (OR = 2.83, 95% CI 1.58-5, P < .001), underweight status (OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.12-2.57, P = .012), and residual lesion (OR = 3.79, 95% CI 1.43-10.05, P = .007). Both aortic cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times did not exhibit clinically significant risk factors toward PMV and prolonged ICU LOS.

Conclusions

The risk factors for PMV and prolonged ICU LOS were residual lesion, younger age, and lower weight. Nutritional status contributed to the risk of prolonged ICU LOS, but not PMV. Consideration of these factors may provide optimal care to improve the outcome following TOF corrective surgery.
Aortic Uncrossing for Circumflex Aorta
Authors: Kaskar Ameya , Dhabe Vaibhav , Sen Supratim , Pradhan Priya , Garg Sonal , Kumar Gaurav
Published: September 2023

Circumflex aorta is described as a retroesophageal aortic arch, with opposite-sided descending aorta forming a true vascular ring with ligamentum arteriosum. We report two cases of right-sided circumflex aorta with varied clinical presentation. Computed tomography diagnosed this vascular ring anomaly. The patients were managed with the aortic uncrossing procedure as a primary surgical strategy. Preoperative diagnosis and thorough planning were essential for the successful outcome. The patients did not have any residual symptoms of tracheal and esophageal compression on follow up.
‘LAND as GOLD’: Commodification of Agricultural Land and its Implications in Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Rao Ch. Sankar
Published: September 2023

Agricultural-land sale prices in India exponentially increased during post-reforms period. This article studies operation of agricultural-land sale market and its implications in Andhra Pradesh during 2001–2017. It is based on primary data from six villages in three regions. The results show that sale prices of unit agricultural land have skyrocketed, and they are no way related to returns from land. The rich, non-cultivating households are increasingly buying agricultural land at higher prices for non-cultivating purposes and left fallow. They treat agricultural land as gold for store value, speculative trading, tax benefits, etc. The higher land sale prices along with depleting returns tempted distressed small farmers to sell their land. Consequently, cultivating small farmers are pushed to supply-side of land market as distressed sellers but not on the demand side of land market as buyers. Agricultural land is slowly but permanently going away from the hands of cultivator to noncultivators. Continuation of these trends has an adverse impact on equity and efficiency in agriculture land ownership in the state.
The Future of Foster Care and Child Protection in India and Sri Lanka
Authors: McNitt Myrna , Omprem Vasundhra , Stanier Lynn
Published: September 2023

India and Sri Lanka have a shared history, which has led to the longstanding use of institutional care of children. Children in institutions were often disabled, the victims of gender violence and their families lacked the necessary resources to provide care. This was true in the past and is today. There is a slow movement to end institutional care in India and Sri Lanka through the development of family-based alternative care (foster care). For this change, stakeholders needed to engage at all levels in changing policy and practice. Noteworthy is the legislative taken in India in the year 2015 to amend and revise its existing Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2000. The new Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015 included provisions on foster care under the chapter Reintegration and Rehabilitation. Sri Lanka took formal action in 2019 with the passage of The National Alternative Care Policy for Children in Sri Lanka. This Act defines all forms of alternative care including foster care and kinship care. These legislative changes aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) asserting a child’s rights framework. Collaboration, training and exchange of practices have been key to the development of foster care and will continue to help this monumental change process.
Results from the BETTER WISE trial: a pragmatic cluster two arm parallel randomized controlled trial for primary prevention and screening in primary care during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Manca Donna Patricia , Fernandes Carolina , Lofters Aisha , Aubrey-Bassler Kris , Shea-Budgell Melissa , Campbell-Scherer Denise , Sopcak Nicolette , Meaney Christopher , Moineddin Rahim , McBrien Kerry , Krueger Paul , Wong Tracy , Grunfeld Eva
Published: September 2023

Background

Cancer and chronic diseases are a major cost to the healthcare system and multidisciplinary models with access to prevention and screening resources have demonstrated improvements in chronic disease management and prevention. Research demonstrated that a trained Prevention Practitioner (PP) in multidisciplinary team settings can improve achievement of patient level prevention and screening actions seven months after the intervention.

Methods

We tested the effectiveness of the PP intervention in a pragmatic two-arm cluster randomized controlled trial. Patients aged 40–65 were randomized at the physician level to an intervention group or to a wait-list control group. The intervention consisted of a patient visit with a PP. The PP received training in prevention and screening and use of the BETTER WISE tool kit. The effectiveness of the intervention was assessed using a composite outcome of the proportion of the eligible prevention and screening actions achieved between intervention and control groups at 12-months.

Results

Fifty-nine physicians were recruited in Alberta, Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Of the 1,005 patients enrolled, 733 (72.9%) completed the 12-month analysis. The COVID-19 pandemic occurred during the study time frame at which time nonessential prevention and screening services were not available and in-person visits with the PP were not allowed. Many patients and sites did not receive the intervention as planned.

The mean composite score was not significantly higher in patients receiving the PP intervention as compared to the control group. To understand the impact of COVID on the project, we also considered a subset of patients who had received the intervention and who attended the 12-month follow-up visit before COVID-19. This assessment demonstrated the effectiveness of the BETTER visits, similar to the findings in previous BETTER studies.

Conclusions

We did not observe an improvement in cancer and chronic disease prevention and screening (CCDPS) outcomes at 12 months after a BETTER WISE prevention visit: due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the study was not implemented as planned. Though benefits were described in those who received the intervention before COVID-19, the sample size was too small to make conclusions. This study may be a harbinger of a substantial decrease and delay in CCDPS activities under COVID restrictions.

Trial registration

ISRCTN21333761. Registered on 19/12/2016. http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN21333761.
Short-term and long-term outcomes of patients with gastric cancer during versus before the COVID-19 pandemic: cohort study using propensity score matching method
Authors: Sun Yong , Chen Chao , Hou Lei , Zhao Enhong
Published: September 2023

Background

The negative effects of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on patients with gastric cancer are poorly understood. This study was designed to compare the short-term and long-term outcomes of patients with gastric cancer in the same period before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We retrospectively collected consecutive patients with definite diagnosis of gastric cancer at our center between 1 January and 30 June of 2019 (Before COVID-19) and 2020 (During COVID-19). A comparison was made between the number of patients and their characteristics before and during the COVID-19 epidemic. Propensity score matching (PSM) at 1:1 ratio was performed to evaluate the outcomes of patients that underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy in two groups.

Result

The total number of patients diagnosed with gastric cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic increased by 21.4%, compared to that before the COVID-19 pandemic. AII the qualified patients were divided Before COVID-19 Pandemic group (BCP n = 99) and During COVID-19 Pandemic group (DCP n = 118). PSM yielded 81 patients with comparable baseline characteristics into each group. Compared to the BCP group, the DCP group had longer surgery time(P = 0.011), more blood loss(P = 0.015), longer postoperative hospital stay(P = 0.002). No statistical differences were observed in terms of type of resection, number of retrieved lymph nodes (LNs), pathology, short-term and long-term complications (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients diagnosed with gastric cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic had comparable short-term outcomes and long-term complications, but worse peri-operative outcomes, compared to that before the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is needed to investigate long-term outcomes.
The telephone nursing dialogue process: an integrative review
Authors: Gustafsson Silje Rysst , Wahlberg Anna Carin
Published: September 2023

Background

Telephone nursing involves triage, advice, and care management provided by a nurse over the telephone. The telephone nursing dialogue process has been used clinically in telephone nursing in Sweden for several years to structure the communication and ensure a safe assessment and advice. Studies are needed to determine whether there is sufficient scientific evidence to support the method.

Aim

To describe the scientific basis of the phases of the telephone nursing dialogue process.

Design

This was an integrative review.

Methods

The literature searches were performed in August 2023, in the PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and SwePUB databases. Sixty-two articles were included. Data was sorted deductively according to the five phases of the telephone nursing dialogue process and categorized inductively to form subcategories describing the content of each phase.

Result

All five phases in the telephone nursing dialogue process were supported by a range of articles (n = 32–50): Opening (n = 32), Listening (n = 45), Analysing (n = 50), Motivating (n = 48), and Ending (n = 35). During the opening of the call, the nurse presents herself, welcomes the caller and establishes a caring relationship. In the listening phase, the nurse invites the caller to tell their story, listens actively and confirms understanding. During the analyzing phase, the nurse gathers, assesses, and verifies information. In the motivating phase, the nurse reaches a final assessment, informs the caller, gives advice and creates a mutual agreement and understanding while supporting the caller. Ultimately, the nurse ends the call after checking for mutual agreement and understanding, giving safety-net advice, deciding on whether to keep monitoring the caller and rounding off the call.

Conclusion

The phases of the telephone nursing dialogue process as described in the scientific literature are well aligned with the theoretical descriptions of the telephone nursing dialogue process.
International comparison of professional competency frameworks for nurses: a document analysis
Authors: Wit Renate F. , de Veer Anke J.E. , Batenburg Ronald S. , Francke Anneke L.
Published: September 2023

Background

Nursing competency frameworks describe the competencies; knowledge, skills and attitudes nurses should possess. Countries have their own framework. Knowledge of the content of professional competency frameworks in different countries can enhance the development of these frameworks and international collaborations.

Objective

This study examines how competencies and task divisions are described in the current professional competency frameworks for registered nurses (RNs with a Bachelor’s degree) in the Netherlands, Belgium, the United Kingdom (UK), Canada and the United States (US).

Methods

Qualitative document analysis was conducted using the most recently published professional competency frameworks for registered nurses in the above-mentioned five countries.

Results

All the competency frameworks distinguished categories of competencies. Three of the five frameworks explicitly mentioned the basis for the categorization: an adaptation of the CanMEDS model (Netherlands), European directives on the recognition of professional qualifications (Belgium) and an adapted inter-professional framework (US). Although there was variation in how competencies were grouped, we inductively identified ten generic competency domains: (1) Professional Attitude, (2) Clinical Care in Practice, (3) Communication and Collaboration, (4) Health Promotion and Prevention, (5) Organization and Planning of Care, (6) Leadership, (7) Quality and Safety of Care, (8) Training and (continuing) Education, (9) Technology and e-Health, (10) Support of Self-Management and Patient Empowerment. Country differences were found in some more specific competency descriptions. All frameworks described aspects related to the division of tasks between nurses on the one hand and physicians and other healthcare professionals on the other hand. However, these descriptions were rather limited and often imprecise.

Conclusions

Although ten generic domains could be identified when analysing and comparing the competency frameworks, there are country differences in the categorizations and the details of the competencies described in the frameworks. These differences and the limited attention paid to the division of tasks might lead to cross-country differences in nursing practice and barriers to the international labour mobility of Bachelor-educated RNs.
CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screening identifies KIAA1429 as an essential gene in Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Tan Kezhe , Lu Wenjie , Chen Feng , Shi Hao , Ma Yingxuan , Chen Zhou , Wu Wei , Lv Zhibao , Mo Jialin
Published: September 2023

Background

Ewing sarcoma (ES) is an aggressive childhood bone and soft tissue cancer. KIAA1429 is one type of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) writer that plays a tumor-progressive role in various cancers, but the role of KIAA1429 in ES remains to be elucidated. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of KIAA1429 in ES.

Methods

We performed a multi-omic screen including CRISPR-Cas9 functional genomic and transcriptomic approaches, and identified that KIAA1429 played a significant role in ES progression. Gene knockdown, quantitative real-time PCR (Q-RT-PCR), immunoblotting, CellTiter-Glo assays, clonogenic assays, a subcutaneous xenograft model and immunohistochemistry were used to assess the functional role of KIAA1429 in ES. We mainly conducted RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) in ES cells to analyze the downstream regulatory mechanism of KIAA1429. An integrative analysis of chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and RNA-seq indicated the upstream regulatory mechanism of KIAA1429.

Results

In vitro and in vivo CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screening identified KIAA1429 as an ES-dependent gene. Genetic suppression of KIAA1429 inhibited ES cell proliferation and tumorigenicity both in vitro and in vivo. Further studies revealed that KIAA1429 promotes ES tumorigenesis by regulating the ribosome-associated cell cycle and cancer-related inflammation. Interestingly, we found that STAT3 was a target of KIAA1429 and that a STAT3 inhibitor reduced KIAA1429 transcript levels, indicating positive feedback between KIAA1429 and STAT3. Finally, we found that NKX2-2 bound to the KIAA1429 promoter and transactivated KIAA1429.

Conclusion

Our study systematically analyzed ES-dependent epigenetic/transcriptional regulatory genes and identified KIAA1429 as a biomarker of tumor progression in ES, providing a potential therapeutic target for treating ES.
Fetal sex differences in placental LCPUFA ether and plasmalogen phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine contents in pregnancies complicated by obesity
Authors: Powell Theresa L. , Uhlson Charis , Madi Lana , Berry Karin Zemski , Chassen Stephanie S. , Jansson Thomas , Ferchaud-Roucher Veronique
Published: September 2023

Background

We have previously reported that maternal obesity reduces placental transport capacity for lysophosphatidylcholine-docosahexaenoic acid (LPC-DHA), a preferred form for transfer of DHA (omega 3) to the fetal brain, but only in male fetuses. Phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylcholine (PC), have either sn-1 ester, ether or vinyl ether (plasmalogen) linkages to primarily unsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids and DHA or arachidonic acid (ARA, omega 6) in the sn-2 position. Whether ether and plasmalogen PC and PE metabolism in placenta impacts transfer to the fetus is unexplored. We hypothesized that ether and plasmalogen PC and PE containing DHA and ARA are reduced in maternal–fetal unit in pregnancies complicated by obesity and these differences are dependent on fetal sex.

Methods

In maternal, umbilical cord plasma and placentas from obese women (11 female/5 male infants) and normal weight women (9 female/7 male infants), all PC and PE species containing DHA and ARA were analyzed by LC–MS/MS. Placental protein expression of enzymes involved in phospholipid synthesis, were determined by immunoblotting. All variables were compared between control vs obese groups and separated by fetal sex, in each sample using the Benjamini–Hochberg false discovery rate adjustment to account for multiple testing.

Results

Levels of ester PC containing DHA and ARA were profoundly reduced by 60–92% in male placentas of obese mothers, while levels of ether and plasmalogen PE containing DHA and ARA were decreased by 51–84% in female placentas. PLA2G4C abundance was lower in male placentas and LPCAT4 abundance was lower solely in females in obesity. In umbilical cord, levels of ester, ether and plasmalogen PC and PE with DHA were reduced by 43–61% in male, but not female, fetuses of obese mothers.

Conclusions

We found a fetal sex effect in placental PE and PC ester, ether and plasmalogen PE and PC containing DHA in response to maternal obesity which appears to reflect an ability of female placentas to adapt to maintain optimal fetal DHA transfer in maternal obesity.
Early Pliocene otolith assemblages from the outer-shelf environment reveal the establishment of mesopelagic fish fauna over 3 million years ago in southwestern Taiwan
Authors: Lin Chien-Hsiang , Wu Siao-Man , Lin Chia-Yen , Chien Chi-Wei
Published: September 2023

Understanding the diversity of deep-sea fish fauna based on otoliths in the tropical and subtropical West Pacific has been limited, creating a significant knowledge gap regarding regional and temporal variations in deep-sea fish fauna. To address this gap, we collected a total of 122 bulk sediment samples from the Lower Pliocene Gutingkeng Formation in southwestern Taiwan to reconstruct the otolith-based fish fauna. Using planktonic foraminiferal biostratigraphy, we determined the age of the samples to be 5.6 to 3.1 Ma. A total of 8314 otoliths were assigned to 64 different taxa from 33 families, including the discovery of one new genus, Gutingichthys gen. nov., and three new species: Benthosema duanformis sp. nov., Benthosema parafibulatum sp. nov., and Gutingichthys changi sp. nov. Comparisons with other regional otolith-based assemblages highlighted the exceptional diversity of our collection, making it the most diverse fossil fish fauna reported from Taiwan to date. Otolith diversity analysis revealed very few taxa were dominant in the assemblage, particularly the mesopelagic Myctophidae, with a wide variety of minor taxa. The co-occurrence of shallow-water elements suggests episodic storm events as a potential source. The predominance of deep-sea and oceanic fishes indicated an outer-shelf to upper slope environment, resembling the modern outer-shelf and upper slope fish fauna in the region. Our findings suggest an early establishment and persistent presence of the mesopelagic fish community since the Early Pliocene. Further investigations of the Upper Miocene and Pleistocene sections of the Gutingkeng Formation would provide valuable insights into the evolution of deep-sea fish fauna in the area.

ZooBank LSID: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:7A336FC7-0D9A-4D17-B212-0B51427945DD.
Gestational diabetes mellitus, follow-up of future maternal risk of cardiovascular disease and the use of eHealth technologies—a scoping review
Authors: Fiskå Bendik S. , Pay Aase Serine Devold , Staff Anne Cathrine , Sugulle Meryam
Published: September 2023

Background

Globally, gestational diabetes mellitus complicates 1 in 6 pregnancies and increases future risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in the affected women. There is a lack of consensus on the optimal follow-up of these women. eHealth is emerging as a health care tool, but its practical utility and advantages over standard care in the follow-up after pregnancy complications remains to be determined. Our aim was to systematically review the existing literature on cardiovascular follow-up after gestational diabetes, the utility of eHealth technology for this purpose, and to identify research gaps.

Methods

We performed a systematic scoping review following a published protocol and the Joanna Briggs methodology for studies up until May 2022. Four databases were searched: Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Maternity and Infant Care, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Primary research articles and systematic reviews were included in the final analyses. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts and performed full text assessment. Data was extracted using a data charting form. In all stages of the process, if consensus was not reached, a third reviewer was consulted. The findings from the data charting process provided the basis for summarizing the findings from the included studies.

Results

The search of the databases generated 2772 hits. After removing duplicates and manually adding a total of 19 studies, reviews, and guidelines, a total of 2769 titles and abstracts were screened, and 97 papers underwent full-text review. In the final analyses, 15 articles and 12 systematic reviews were included, whereas guidelines are presented as supplementary material.

No studies were identified that examined follow-up regarding long-term overall cardiovascular risk after gestational diabetes. Various lifestyle interventions were tested for individual cardiovascular risk factors, with diverging effects. eHealth technologies were found acceptable by participants but had no consistent, statistically significant effect on relevant health outcomes.

Conclusions

This scoping review of the existing literature revealed neither an established systematic cardiovascular follow-up strategy for women after gestational diabetes nor evidence that eHealth technologies are superior to conventional follow-up. Further research into the utility of eHealth in cardiovascular follow-up after complicated pregnancies should include longer-term follow-up and core cardiovascular outcomes.

Systematic review registration

The protocol for this scoping review was published at Open Science Framework (osf.io/p5hw6)
Planning of physiotherapeutic procedure in patients after mandible reconstruction taking into account donor site: a literature review
Authors: Walatek Julia , Myśliwiec Andrzej , Krakowczyk Łukasz , Wolański Wojciech , Lipowicz Anna , Dowgierd Krzysztof
Published: September 2023

Background

Mandible tumors are very rare. One of the main methods of the treatments is resection of the tumor and then reconstruction of the mandible. The donor site is often distant tissue—fibula or ilium. Following this, it is necessary to improve the patient in two ways, on one hand restoring the function of the mandible, and on the other hand, improving the donor site area. For that reason, physiotherapy after tumor resection and reconstruction of the mandible is very complicated. The aim of this bibliographic review was to find the methods of the reconstruction of the mandible in the context of patients’ functional assessment after surgeries to create effective physiotherapeutic procedures in the feature.

Methods

PEDro, Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Clinical Trials were searched.

Results

767 articles were found. 40 articles were included to this literature review.

Conclusions

Authors showed different kinds of surgeries strategy for patients with tumors of the mandible. They also showed manners of patients’ functional assessment in the localization of transplantation and donor site. It could be useful for physiotherapists during planning of comprehensive physiotherapy.
Role of gut microbiome in cancer immunotherapy: from predictive biomarker to therapeutic target
Authors: Zhang Mengwei , Liu Jinkai , Xia Qiang
Published: September 2023

Immunotherapy has emerged as an effective treatment for various types of cancers. Recent studies have highlighted a significant correlation between the gut microbiome and patients’ response to immunotherapy. Several characteristics of the gut microbiome, such as community structures, taxonomic compositions, and molecular functions, have been identified as crucial biomarkers for predicting immunotherapy response and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Unlike other -omics, the gut microbiome can serve as not only biomarkers but also potential targets for enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy. Approaches for modulating the gut microbiome include probiotics/prebiotics supplementation, dietary interventions, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and antibiotic administration. This review primarily focuses on elucidating the potential role of the gut microbiome in predicting the response to cancer immunotherapy and improving its efficacy. Notably, we explore reasons behind inconsistent findings observed in different studies, and highlight the underlying benefits of antibiotics in liver cancer immunotherapy.