bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
My Health Coach: Community members’ perspectives on a mobile health tool for adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Speybroeck Emily L , Petrenko Christie , Tapparello Cristiano , Griffin Katrina , Hargrove Emily , Himmelreich Myles , Lutke Anique , Lutke CJ , May Maggie , Zhang Shuo , Looney Janna , Kautz-Turnbull Carson , Rockhold Madeline N
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) affect the health and development of people across the lifespan. Adults with FASD experience significant barriers to care. Accessible and scalable solutions are needed. In partnership with members of the International Adult Leadership Collaborative of FASD Changemakers, an international group of adults with FASD, we developed a mobile health (mHealth) application based on self-determination theory (SDT), called “My Health Coach,” to promote self-management and health advocacy.

Methods

This project follows an established user-centered design approach to app development and evaluation, allowing for feedback loops promoting iterative change. Research staff and ALC members co-led online focus groups ( n = 26) and an online follow-up survey ( n = 26) with adults with FASD to elicit feedback on completed design prototypes. Focus group transcriptions and surveys underwent systemic thematic and theoretical framework analysis.

Results

Analyses show overall positive impressions of the My Health Coach app. Participants were enthusiastic about the proposed features and tools the app will provide. Discussions and free responses revealed SDT constructs (autonomy, competence, relatedness) are a strong fit with participants’ perceived outcomes shared in their evaluation of the prototype. Interesting recommendations were made for additional features that would further promote SDT constructs.

Conclusions

This project demonstrates advantages of community-engaged partnerships in FASD research. Adults with FASD have a strong interest in scalable mHealth tools and described the acceptability of our initial design. App features and tools promoted SDT constructs.
Parenting for Success: Exploring the Link Between Parenting Styles and Adolescents’ Academic Achievement Through Their Learning Engagement
Authors: Fute Antony , Oubibi Mohamed , Sun Binghai , Zhou Yueliang , Bassiri Mustapha , Chen Gaoyu
Published: June 2024

Adolescents’ interaction with their parents at home is pivotal for their physical and mental health, which can further influence their academic achievement at school. However, every culture has distinctive parenting elements which are distinguishable from other cultures. This study explored the influence of parenting styles on adolescents’ academic achievement through the mediation role of learning engagement in a Chinese cultural context. A questionnaire was distributed among parents and students, and 1,557 valid responses were received and analyzed using SPSS software, PROCESS macro, Microsoft Excel, and JASP. The results indicated a positive and significant effect of parenting styles on students’ academic achievement, with students’ learning engagement partially mediating such relationship. Dimension-wise, parents’ emotional acceptance positively influenced students’ academic achievement, but rejecting and overprotecting them had negative repercussions. A comparison between fathers and mothers showed a higher effect of mothers’ parenting styles compared to that of fathers. Generally, students’ behaviors result from different forces which act in and outside them, making this study a wake-up call for cherishing collective efforts from parents, teachers, and students toward improving academic performance.
The Health Benefits of Extended Union Membership Among Women: A Family Status Perspective
Authors: Ross Clifford
Published: June 2024

Workers in labor unions have better access to high-quality health insurance plans, better pensions, and higher wages leading to increased lifetime earnings likely leading to better health. Additionally, much of the gendered hiring, promotion, and wage discrimination faced by women in the workplace is dependent on social characteristics (marital status and/or their status as a mother). While many of the benefits associated with union membership can potentially buffer the gendered workplace inequalities that lead to poorer health outcomes, unions have been largely ignored in health disparities literature. Using 28 waves of data ( N = 3,409) from The National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979, this study creates a lifetime “union tenure” variable, tests its relationship to midlife physical and mental health, and tests ways in which motherhood and marital status may moderate this relationship. Findings suggest that long-term union membership is associated with better physical health among mothers but does not have a significant benefit for women without children. Further, in fully controlled models, this relationship is not dependent on marital status and both married and unmarried mothers see a union tenure health benefit. This study provides insight into how union membership may play a role in improving the midlife health of working mothers.
Tourism and Israel–Arab Normalization Processes: The Case of Israel, Morocco, and the UAE
Authors: Salman Yaron
Published: June 2024

The Iran factor and the USA’s role as a mediator are cited as notable factors contributing to the Israel–Arab rapprochement that led to the signing of the Abraham Accords in September 2020. These explanations mainly help understand the factors contributing toward the normalization and suggest that economic incentives and tourism are significant factors in sustaining the normalization in the cases of Israel–Morocco and Israel–UAE. By using the theory of tourism diplomacy, the article shows that since the Abraham Accords, tourism has been used by the governments of Israel, Morocco, and the UAE to maintain positive relations; an emotional tourism campaign through pilgrimages and saint veneration is used to promote tourism flow, especially in the case of Morocco; and tourism played a significant role in stabilizing Israel’s relations with the UAE and Morocco. This carries important policy implications for the future normalization process that tourism can play a major political tool used by Israel and Arab countries to maintain positive relations.
Improved Learning Gain in Medical Students by Using Animated Whiteboard-Videos in Comparison to Textbooks in Surgery
Authors: Koch Markus , Günster Simone A. , Widder Anna , Seyfried Florian , Germer Christoph-Thomas , Backhaus Joy , König Sarah , Lock Johan F.
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Animated videos have become popular in teaching medical students, although there is a certain lack of evidence concerning its efficacy. Surgery seems to be an ideal field for its application, since animations are very helpful to understand anatomic structures and complex procedures. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of animated videos compared to textbooks on learning gain.

METHODS

A prospective 2-arm cohort study with 5th-year medical students was conducted during their 2-week surgical training module. The initial cohort of students received textbook sections on 3 major topics in visceral surgery as learning medium (text cohort). During the following semester, the second cohort of students received 3 animated whiteboard videos (animated videos) containing equivalent content (video cohort). All participants completed a multiple-choice test consisting of 15 questions on the learning content at baseline (pre-test) and after the learning period (post-test) and answered an additional evaluation questionnaire.

RESULTS

Both cohorts were similar in their descriptive data and demonstrated significant learning gain during the 2-week learning period. The video cohort achieved better results (80% vs 73% correct answers; P = .028) and a higher learning gain (17% vs 11%; P = .034) in the post-test compared to the text cohort. The estimated learning time was longer in the video cohort (62 min vs 37 min; P < .001) and watching the videos resulted in higher learning gain (21% vs 6%; P < .001). Subgroups with higher learning gain by video learning were female gender (20% vs 11%; P = .040), native German speakers (18% vs 11%; P = .009), students without prior surgical experience (19% vs 12%; P = .033) and those undecided concerning a surgical career (22% vs 9%; P = .020). Interestingly, “low digital orientation” students benefited from videos (22% vs 13%; P = .021), whereas “high digital orientation” students did not.

CONCLUSIONS

Animated videos increase medical students’ learning gain and interest in surgery.
Latin American female migrants’ negotiation of sex work, international borders and internal barriers in Istanbul
Authors: Lenti Gianmaria , López Marín Bernardo
Published: June 2024

Based on participant observation, numerous informal conversations and ten semi-structured interviews, this paper explores the complexities of Latin American female migrants’ mobility towards Europe via Turkey. By analyzing ethnographic data accounting for their life stories, interactions with ‘traffickers’, experiences in Istanbul, and the difficulties to reach their destinations, it deconstructs dominant perspectives about human trafficking and sex work. Their narratives dislocate mainstream discourses that homogenize international migration under institutional categories, predetermined experiences and subjectivized ontologies. Upon arrival, unforeseen circumstances truncated previous plans, encapsulating them within Turkish borders where finding means to survive and continue moving turned challenging. Meanwhile, they must deal with internal barriers, including gender relations, gender-based violence and sociocultural, linguistic, economic, political and legislative hindrances that exacerbate precarity and risks. These journeys can become entangled with sex work, either induced or independently exercised with the intention of opposing immobilizing border regimes. Despite exposure to violence and abuse, these women continuously negotiate their own subjectivities, while dealing with unfamiliar and hostile settings, demonstrating tenacious expressions of subjective and collective agency that assist them in surviving and pursuing their life projects.
Using graph neural networks to predict local culture
Authors: Silva Thiago H , Silver Daniel
Published: June 2024

Urban research has long recognized that neighbourhoods are dynamic and relational. However, lack of data, methodologies, and computer processing power have hampered a formal quantitative examination of neighbourhood relational dynamics. To make progress on this issue, this study proposes a graph neural network (GNN) approach that permits combining and evaluating multiple sources of information about internal characteristics of neighbourhoods, their past characteristics, and flows of groups among them, potentially providing greater expressive power in predictive models. By exploring a public large-scale dataset from Yelp, we show the potential of our approach for considering structural connectedness in predicting neighbourhood attributes, specifically to predict local culture. Results are promising from a substantive and methodologically point of view. Substantively, we find that either local area information (e.g. area demographics) or group profiles (tastes of Yelp reviewers) give the best results in predicting local culture, and they are nearly equivalent in all studied cases. Methodologically, exploring group profiles could be a helpful alternative where finding local information for specific areas is challenging, since they can be extracted automatically from many forms of online data. Thus, our approach could empower researchers and policy-makers to use a range of data sources when other local area information is lacking.
S100A6 Regulates nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway: an in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Yang Fengguang , Duan Yanni , Li Yanhu , Zhu Daxue , Wang Zhaoheng , Luo Zhangbin , Zhang Yizhi , Zhang Guangzhi , He Xuegang , Kang Xuewen
Published: June 2024

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a common musculoskeletal degenerative disease, which often leads to low back pain and even disability, resulting in loss of labor ability and decreased quality of life. Although many progresses have been made in the current research, the underlying mechanism of IDD remains unclear. The apoptosis of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells (NPCs) is an important pathological mechanism in intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). This study evaluated the relationship between S100A6 and NPCs and its underlying mechanism.

Methods

Mass spectrometry, bioinformatics, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analyses were used to screen and verify hub genes for IDD in human IVD specimens with different degeneration degrees. Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and/or immunofluorescence (IF) were used to detect the expression level of S100A6 in human NP tissues and NPCs. The apoptotic phenotype of NPCs and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were evaluated using flow cytometry, western blotting, and IF. S100A6 was overexpressed or knocked down in NPCs to determine its impact on apoptosis and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activity. Moreover, we used the XAV-939 to inhibit and SKL2001 to activate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. The therapeutic effect of S100A6 inhibition on IDD was also evaluated.

Results

S100A6 expression increased in IDD. In vitro, increased S100A6 expression promoted apoptosis in interleukin (IL)-1β-induced NPCs. In contrast, the inhibition of S100A6 expression partially alleviated the progression of annulus fibrosus (AF) puncture-induced IDD in rats. Mechanistic studies revealed that S100A6 regulates NPC apoptosis via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Conclusions

This study showed that S100A6 expression increased during IDD and promoted NPCs apoptosis by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, suggesting that S100A6 is a promising new therapeutic target for IDD.
From conflict to harmony: changing conceptual ecology of evolution acceptance of muslim students after dialogue in science and religion
Authors: Saefi Muhammad , Suwono Hadi , Hanafi Yusuf
Published: June 2024

Muslim students have a high perceived conflict between religion and evolution. For this reason, constructivist teaching was implemented to emphasise the balance of the nature of science (NOS) on evolution and creationism theory within the conceptual ecology for biological evolution (CEBE) framework. This study explored changes in students’ CEBE and how perceived conflict, NOS, and religion contributed to the evolution of acceptance during the course. This research followed a one-group pre-test and post-test design to gather data. Data collection tools used in this study included a questionnaire and a reflective essay. The study group consisted of third-year undergraduate biology students aged 20–22 from Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang in Indonesia. Questionnaire responses were analysed using statistical methods, including paired t-tests, correlation, and hierarchical regression, while reflective essays were analysed using content analysis. The study found that students’ acceptance increased after the course and was correlated with their knowledge, religiosity, understanding of NOS, and perceived impact. The understanding of NOS was the primary factor influencing the acceptance of the theory of evolution, while perceived conflict has the least impact. In addition, reflective essays showed that while most students had a naive knowledge of evolutionary reasoning, they could explain the nature of science. The students were able to establish a complex relationship between science and religion using the chimpanzee-human relationship explanation. This study has provided an example of a learning method to minimise students' perceived conflict in the evolution course.
Genome sequence of Fusarium oxysporum strain ByF01, the causal agent of root rot of Knoxia roxburghii in China
Authors: Liu Chunju , Guo Zhaohui , Zhang Lei , Dong Jiahong , He Xiahong , Li Heng , Qiu Bin
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Knoxia roxburghii is a member of the madder (Rubiaceae) family. This plant is cultivated in different areas of China and recognized for its medicinal properties, which leads to its use in traditional Chinese medicine. The incidence of root rot was 10–15%. In June 2023, the causal agent of root rot on K. roxburghii was identified as Fusarium oxysporum. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the complete genome of F. oxysporum strain ByF01 that is the causal agent of root rot of K. roxburghii in China. The results will provide effective resources for pathogenesis on K. roxburghii and the prevention and control of root rot on this host in the future.

Data description

To understand the molecular mechanisms used by F. oxysporum to cause root rot on K. roxburghii, strain ByF01 was isolated from diseased roots and identified by morphological and molecular methods. The complete genome of strain ByF01 was then sequenced using a combination of the PacBio Sequel IIe and Illumina sequencing platforms. We obtained 54,431,725 bp of nucleotides, 47.46% GC content, and 16,705 coding sequences.
Work environment adversity and non-communicable Disease risk among drivers working for application-based-cab-aggregators in an Indian metropolis
Authors: Sukumar Gautham Melur , Parivallal Mohana Balan , Giboy Shalin Lily , Thakkar Aditi Narendra
Published: June 2024

Background

Bengaluru, a metropolis in Southern India, is one of the largest markets for cab aggregator companies. Drivers working for these companies play a vital role in urban transportation but unlike other drivers, their work pattern is stressful, which could increase their proneness to NCD risk factors. Understanding associations between work environment adversity and NCD risk factors among these drivers will help to plan specific health promotion and NCD prevention programs including provision of basic occupational health services.

Objectives

The study aims to test for an association between work environment adversity and selected Non-communicable Disease (NCD) risk factors among Application Cab Aggregator drivers in Bengaluru city and to estimate the prevalence of selected NCD risk factors among the ABCA drivers.

Methodology

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Bengaluru city among 340 eligible and consenting ABCA drivers with at least one-year experience. Drivers were recruited through a multi-stage sampling procedure and time-period sampling, from transportation and leisure zones in the city. Data was collected through interviews using specifically developed semi-structured tools to assess work environment adversity and NCD risk factors. Prevalence of NCD risk factors is presented per 100 drivers with 95% confidence intervals. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was conducted to quantify the strength of the association between work environment adversity categories and NCD risk factors. Ethical clearance was obtained from the NIMHANS Ethics Committee.

Results

Nearly 97% of the 340 drivers reported having one or more NCD risk factors. Working more than 5 days a week, more than 7 + hours a day, staying away from family, and working night shifts were closely associated with higher risk for NCD risk factors among ABCA drivers. Drivers with work environment adversity scores between 5 and 10 were associated with higher odds of Physical Inactivity (OR = 3.1), Unhealthy diets (OR = 1.62), and Tobacco Use (OR = 3.06).

Conclusion

The study highlights the association between work environment adversity and NCD risk factors and indicates a dire need for NCD prevention programs, basic occupational health services, and social security provisions for ABCA cab drivers.
Patient activation in adults with visual impairment: a study of related factors
Authors: Özkan Esma , İnal Özün Özgü , Göktaş Ayşe , İlhan Bayazıt
Published: June 2024

This study aims to analyze variables related to patient activation in 78 individuals with visual impairment. The Patient Activation Measure (PAM) scores of participants showed no differences between males and females. It was found that the individuals living in urban areas, and participants with higher income and education levels had higher PAM scores. Still, the difference between the groups was statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). The PAM scores of the visually impaired individuals reflect taking action level of activation (66.51 ± 18.14-PAM level 3). There was a moderately significant relationship between PAM scores and visually impaired individuals’ self-management, self-efficacy, healthy life awareness, social relations, and environment (p < 0.001). We found that the variables included in the regression model (marital status, self-management, self-efficacy, healthy life awareness, social relations, and environment) explained 72.2% of the PAM score. Individuals with visual impairment can be given training on self-management, self-efficacy, healthy life awareness, and quality of life associated with social relations and environment to develop positive health behaviors.
Early safety and efficiency outcomes of a novel interdisciplinary laparoscopic resection rectopexy combined with sacrocolpopexy for women with obstructive defecation syndrome and pelvic organ prolapse: a single center study
Authors: Rudroff Claudia , Madukkakuzhy Joshy , Hernandez Alberto Vega , Otten Jakob , Ulrici Christoph , Karapanos Leonidas , Ludwig Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Background

Obstructive defecation syndrome (ODS) defines a disturbed defecation process frequently associated with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in women that substantially compromises quality of life. Conservative management offers limited relief and a surgical intervention may be required. This is characterized by individual approaches.

Aim of the study

This retrospective single center study evaluated the surgical and clinical short-term outcome of a novel interdisciplinary laparoscopic resection rectopexy (L-RRP) with mesh- sacrocolpopexy (L-SCP) for women suffering from ODS and POP.

Methods

The study participants underwent surgery in an interdisciplinary laparoscopic approach. Safety was the primary endpoint, assessed via postoperative morbidity classified by Clavien-Dindo scale. Secondary outcomes included evaluation of bowel function, fecal and urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse status at 12 months follow-up. Additionally, a biological mesh (BM) was offered to women, who asked for an alternative to synthetic mesh material (SM).

Results

Of the 44 consecutive patients requiring surgery for ODS and POP, 36 patients underwent the interdisciplinary surgical approach; 28 patients with SM and 8 patients with BM. In total 5 complications occurred, four of them were classified as minor. One minor complication was observed in the BM group. One anastomotic leakage occurred in the SM group. The two ODS scores, the bowel dysfunction score, and the incontinence score improved significantly (p = 0.006, p = 0.003, p < 0.001, and p = 0.0035, respectively). Pelvic floor anatomy was fully restored (POP-Q 0) for 29 (80%) patients after surgery. 17 patients (47%) suffered from urinary incontinence before surgery, which was restored in 13 patients (76.5%).

Conclusions

The interdisciplinary approach with L-RRP and L-SCP and the use of a BM in a small subgroup were technically feasible, safe, and effective in this single center setting. The study’s retrospective design, the small sample size and the lack of comparators limit the generalizability of the findings requiring future randomized trials.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov, trial number NCT05910021, date of registration 06/10/2023.
Evaluating the effectiveness of combined T4 and T3 therapy or desiccated thyroid versus T4 monotherapy in hypothyroidism: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nassar Mahmoud , Hassan Ahmed , Ramadan Shrouk , Desouki Mariam Tarek , Hassan Malak A. , Chaudhuri Ajay
Published: June 2024

Background

Persistent symptoms in hypothyroid patients despite normalized TSH levels suggest the need for alternative treatments. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combined T4 and T3 therapy or desiccated thyroid (DTE) compared to T4 monotherapy, with a focus on thyroid profile, lipid profile, and quality of life metrics.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review in Embase, Medline/PubMed, and Web of Science up to 11/23/2023. We used the following keywords: “Armour Thyroid,” OR “Thyroid extract,” OR “Natural desiccated thyroid,” OR “Nature-Throid,” “desiccated thyroid,” OR “np thyroid,” OR “Synthroid,” OR “levothyroxine,” OR “Liothyronine,” “Cytomel,” OR “Thyroid USP,” OR “Unithroid.” AND “hypothyroidism. “ We only included RCTs and excluded non-RCT, case–control studies, and non-English articles.

Results

From 6,394 identified records, 16 studies qualified after screening and eligibility checks. We included two studies on desiccated thyroid and 15 studies on combined therapy. In this meta-analysis, combination therapy with T4 + T3 revealed significantly lower Free T4 levels (mean difference (MD): -0.34; 95% CI: -0.47, -0.20), Total T4 levels (mean difference: -2.20; 95% CI: -3.03, -1.37), and GHQ-28 scores (MD: -2.89; 95% CI: -3.16, -2.63), compared to T4 monotherapy. Total T3 levels were significantly higher in combined therapy (MD: 29.82; 95% CI: 22.40, 37.25). The analyses demonstrated moderate to high heterogeneity. There was no significant difference in Heart Rate, SHBG, TSH, Lipid profile, TSQ-36, and BDI Score.

Subjects on DTE had significantly higher serum Total T3 levels (MD: 50.90; 95% CI: 42.39, 59.42) and significantly lower serum Total T4 (MD: -3.11; 95% CI: -3.64, -2.58) and Free T4 levels (MD: -0.50; 95% CI: -0.57, -0.43) compared to T4 monotherapy. Moreover, DTE treatment showed modestly higher TSH levels (MD: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.17, 0.80). The analyses indicated low heterogeneity. There was no significant difference in Heart Rate, SHBG, Lipid profile, TSQ-36, GHQ-28, and BDI Score.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that combined therapy and DTE lead to higher T3 and lower T4 levels, compared to T4 monotherapy in hypothyroidism. However, no significant effects on heart rate, lipid profile, or quality of life were noted. Given the heterogeneity of results, personalized treatment approaches are recommended.
Tomographic assessment of bone changes in atrophic maxilla treated by split-crest technique and dental implants with platelet-rich fibrin and NanoBone® versus platelet-rich fibrin alone: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Anis Maged , Abdelrahman Ahmed Reda , Attia Rasha , Zahran Amr
Published: June 2024

Background

This study evaluated the clinical benefits of adding NanoBone® with split-crest technique and simultaneous implant placement covered with platelet-rich fibrin membrane in horizontally deficient maxillary ridges in terms of crestal and horizontal bone changes and patient morbidity.

Methods

Forty patients indicated for maxillary ridge splitting and simultaneous implant placement were assigned randomly to the study groups: control group (Platelet Rich Fibrin membrane) and test group (Platelet Rich Fibrin membrane + Nanobone®). The Cone Beam Computed Tomography Fusion technique was utilized to assess crestal and horizontal bone changes after five months of the surgical procedure. Patient morbidity was recorded for one week post-surgical.

Results

Five months post-surgical, buccal crestal bone resorption was 1.26 ± 0.58 mm for the control group and 1.14 ± 0.63 mm for the test group. Lingual crestal bone resorption was 1.40 ± 0.66 mm for the control group and 1.47 ± 0.68 mm for the test group. Horizontal bone width gain was 1.46 ± 0.44 mm for the control group and 1.29 ± 0.73 mm for the test group. There was no significant statistical difference between study groups regarding crestal and horizontal bone changes and patient morbidity.

Conclusions

The tomographic assessment of NanoBone® addition in this study resulted in no statistically significant difference between study groups regarding crestal and horizontal bone changes and patient morbidity. More randomized controlled clinical trials on gap fill comparing different bone grafting materials versus no grafting should be conducted.

Clinicaltrials.gov registration number

NCT02836678, 13th January 2017.
Navel orange peel essential oil inhibits the growth and progression of triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Yang Chao , Zhang Wenwen , Xiang Shi , Chen Lai , Chun Jiong , Chen Hui
Published: June 2024

Background

Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is a particular type of breast cancer with the highest mortality rate. Essential oils are concerned more and more as potential anti-cancer drugs.

Methods

TNBC cells were treated with different concentrations of navel orange peel essential oil (NOPEO), and then a variety of  experiments were performed to investigate the changes in the growth and progression of TNBC cells. MTT assay was performed to detect the proliferation of TNBC cells. The changes of cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed by FACS. In order to explored the migration of TNBC cells, scratch wound assay was carried out. Western blotting and qPCR were used to examine the expression of proteins and mRNA of related genes. Furthermore, RNA-seq was used to analyze the altered genes and explored the possible signal pathway.

Results

NOPEO demonstrated dose- and time-dependent suppression of TNBC cell growth. TNBC cells showed an increased percentage of G2/M-phase cells and the protein levels of CyclinB1 and CyclinD1 were decreased after NOPEO treatment. The apoptotic cells were increased in the NOPEO treated TNBC cells. The migration mobility was significantly inhibited by NOPEO. In total, 1376 genes were found to be up-regulated and 1335 genes were down-regulated after NOPEO treatment. According to KEGG and GO pathways, the differentially expressed genes were related to MAPK, Jak/stat and FoxQ signaling pathways.

Conclusion

This investigation explored the bio-activity and molecular mechanisms of NOPEO against TNBC cells. These results indicated that NOPEO could suppress TNBC growth and migration perhaps via the MAPK and Jak/stat signaling pathways, which may provide theoretical reference for anticancer drug development. NOPEO may be a potential natural product for the chemotherapeutic of TNBC.
Job satisfaction, professional competence, and self-efficacy: a multicenter cross-sectional study among registered nurses in Sweden and Norway
Authors: Kallerhult Hermansson Stina , Norström Fredrik , Hilli Yvonne , Rennemo Vaag Jonas , Bölenius Karin
Published: June 2024

Background

Healthcare organizations worldwide face persistent challenges relating to turnover and intention to leave the nursing profession among registered nurses. Factors contributing to their retention and well-being at work include high job satisfaction, professional competence, and self-efficacy. Few multicenter studies have investigated these factors in relation to work experience in a Nordic context. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate job satisfaction, professional competence, and self-efficacy among registered nurses.

Methods

This multicenter cross-sectional study survey was part of a larger overarching Swedish-Norwegian project, and was conducted among registered nurses (n = 1137) in September 2021. The participants worked in a variety of health care units, e.g., hospital units, primary health care, and home care. Data was subjected to descriptive and comparative statistical analysis; chi-square test, one-way between-groups analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal-Wallis test.

Results

The findings show that job satisfaction is reported as lowest in registered nurses with medium-term work experience as compared to newly qualified and long-term work-experienced registered nurses. Professional competence and self-efficacy are reported as higher among registered nurses with long-term work experience as compared to those with medium-term work experience and newly qualified registered nurses. However, the participants reported their professional competence as highest in relation to the same factor – “Value-based nursing care” – regardless of their work experience.

Conclusions and implications

This study underscores the need for continuous support and professional development for registered nurses throughout their careers. Proactive support for newly qualified nurses may improve job satisfaction as they progress to being registered nurses with medium-term work experience. Tailored interventions to address the distinct needs of both newly qualified and medium-term work-experienced registered nurses are crucial for nurturing a sustainable nursing workforce.
Access to civil justice as a social determinant of health: a legal epidemiological cross-sectional study
Authors: Fung Eddy Hin Chung , Dong Dong
Published: June 2024

Background

Although it is widely acknowledged that access to civil justice (ATJ) is a key social determinant of health (SDOH), the existing literature lacks empirical evidence supporting ATJ as a SDOH for specific dimensions of health.

Methods

A legal epidemiological, cross-sectional, postal survey was conducted on n = 908 randomly sampled participants in Hong Kong in March 2023. Data collected were perceptions of the civil justice system, health, and sociodemographics. Perceived ATJ was assessed using a modified version of the Inaccessibility of Justice scale (IOJ) and Perceived Inequality of Justice scale (PIJ), i.e. the “modified IOJ-PIJ”, consisting of 12 of the original 13 items from both scales divided into two subdomains: “procedural fairness”, and “outcome neutrality”. For health data, quality of life was assessed using the Hong Kong version of the Abbreviated World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF(HK)), psychological distress (including symptoms of anxiety and depression) was assessed using the four-Item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4), and having comorbidities was assessed using Sangha’s Self-Administered Comorbidity Questionnaire (SCQ). Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to investigate the relationships between perceived ATJ and the measured health outcomes.

Results

SEM demonstrated that both subdomains for ATJ had significantly negative associations (B < 0; p < 0.05) with all quality-of-life subdomains, except for between outcome neutrality with social relationships; both subdomains for ATJ had significantly positive association (B > 0; p < 0.05) with both anxiety and depression; and, after adjusting for age, only “procedural fairness” had significantly positive association (B > 0; p < 0.05) with having comorbidities.

Conclusion

This study provided empirical evidence that ATJ is a SDOH for specific dimensions of health. The results of this study encourage laws, policies, and initiatives aimed at improving ATJ, as well as collaborative efforts from the legal and health sectors through health-justice partnerships, and from the broader community, to safeguard and promote public health by strengthening ATJ.
Mapping of spastic muscle activity after stroke: difference between passive stretch and active contraction
Authors: Xie Tian , Leng Yan , Xu Pan , Li Le , Song Rong
Published: June 2024

Background

Investigating the spatial distribution of muscle activity would facilitate understanding the underlying mechanism of spasticity. The purpose of this study is to investigate the characteristics of spastic muscles during passive stretch and active contraction by high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG).

Methods

Fourteen spastic hemiparetic subjects and ten healthy subjects were recruited. The biceps brachii (BB) muscle activity of each subject was recorded by HD-sEMG during passive stretch at four stretch velocities (10, 60, 120, 180˚/s) and active contraction at three submaximal contraction levels (20, 50, 80%MVC). The intensity and spatial distribution of the BB activity were compared by the means of two-way analysis of variance, independent sample t-test, and paired sample t-test.

Results

Compared with healthy subjects, spastic hemiparetic subjects showed significantly higher intensity with velocity-dependent heterogeneous activation during passive stretch and more lateral and proximal activation distribution during active contraction. In addition, spastic hemiparetic subjects displayed almost non-overlapping activation areas during passive stretch and active contraction. The activation distribution of passive stretch was more distal when compared with the active contraction.

Conclusions

These alterations of the BB activity could be the consequence of deficits in the descending central control after stroke. The complementary spatial distribution of spastic BB activity reflected their opposite motor units (MUs) recruitment patterns between passive stretch and active contraction. This HD-sEMG study provides new neurophysiological evidence for the spatial relationship of spastic BB activity between passive stretch and active contraction, advancing our knowledge on the mechanism of spasticity.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2000032245.
Evaluation of novel Epstein-Barr virus-derived antigen formulations for monitoring virus-specific T cells in pediatric patients with infectious mononucleosis
Authors: Fischer Franziska , Mücke Johannes , Werny Louisa , Gerrer Katrin , Mihatsch Lorenz , Zehetmaier Stefanie , Riedel Isa , Geisperger Jonas , Bodenhausen Maren , Schulte-Hillen Lina , Hoffmann Dieter , Protzer Ulrike , Mautner Josef , Behrends Uta , Bauer Tanja , Körber Nina
Published: June 2024

Background

Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) elicits a complex T-cell response against a broad range of viral proteins. Hence, identifying potential differences in the cellular immune response of patients with different EBV-associated diseases or different courses of the same disorder requires interrogation of a maximum number of EBV antigens. Here, we tested three novel EBV-derived antigen formulations for their ability to reactivate virus-specific T cells ex vivo in patients with EBV-associated infectious mononucleosis (IM).

Methods

We comparatively analyzed EBV-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses to three EBV-derived antigen formulations in 20 pediatric patients during the early phase of IM: T-activated EBV proteins (BZLF1, EBNA3A) and EBV-like particles (EB-VLP), both able to induce CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses ex vivo, as well as an EBV-derived peptide pool (PP) covering 94 well-characterized CD8+ T-cell epitopes. We assessed the specificity, magnitude, kinetics, and functional characteristics of EBV-specific immune responses at two sequential time points (v1 and v2) within the first six weeks after IM symptom onset (Tonset).

Results

All three tested EBV-derived antigen formulations enabled the detection of EBV-reactive T cells during the early phase of IM without prior T-cell expansion in vitro. EBV-reactive CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were mainly mono-functional (CD4+: mean 64.92%, range 56.15-71.71%; CD8+: mean 58.55%, range 11.79-85.22%) within the first two weeks after symptom onset (v1) with IFN-γ and TNF-secreting cells representing the majority of mono-functional EBV-reactive T cells. By contrast, PP-reactive CD8+ T cells were primarily bi-functional (>60% at v1 and v2), produced IFN-γ and TNF and had more tri-functional than mono-functional components. We observed a moderate correlation between viral load and EBNA3A, EB-VLP, and PP-reactive CD8+ T cells (rs = 0.345, 0.418, and 0.356, respectively) within the first two weeks after Tonset, but no correlation with the number of detectable EBV-reactive CD4+ T cells.

Conclusions

All three EBV-derived antigen formulations represent innovative and generic recall antigens suitable for monitoring EBV-specific T-cell responses ex vivo. Their combined use facilitates a thorough analysis of EBV-specific T-cell immunity and allows the identification of functional T-cell signatures linked to disease development and severity.
Versatile DNA extraction from diverse plant taxa using ionic liquids and magnetic ionic liquids: a methodological breakthrough for enhanced sample utility
Authors: De Silva Shashini , Cagliero Cecilia , Gostel Morgan R. , Johnson Gabriel , Anderson Jared L.
Published: June 2024

Background

There is a growing demand for fast and reliable plant biomolecular analyses. DNA extraction is the major bottleneck in plant nucleic acid-based applications especially due to the complexity of tissues in different plant species. Conventional methods for plant cell lysis and DNA extraction typically require extensive sample preparation processes and large quantities of sample and chemicals, elevated temperatures, and multiple sample transfer steps which pose challenges for high throughput applications.

Results

In a prior investigation, an ionic liquid (IL)-based modified vortex-assisted matrix solid phase dispersion approach was developed using the model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. Building upon this foundational study, the present study established a simple, rapid and efficient protocol for DNA extraction from milligram fragments of plant tissue representing a diverse range of taxa from the plant Tree of Life including 13 dicots and 4 monocots. Notably, the approach was successful in extracting DNA from a century old herbarium sample. The isolated DNA was of sufficient quality and quantity for sensitive molecular analyses such as qPCR. Two plant DNA barcoding markers, the plastid rbcL and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) regions were selected for DNA amplification and Sanger sequencing was conducted on PCR products of a representative dicot and monocot species. Successful qPCR amplification of the extracted DNA up to 3 weeks demonstrated that the DNA extracted using this approach remains stable at room temperature for an extended time period prior to downstream analysis.

Conclusions

The method presented here is a rapid and simple approach enabling cell lysis and DNA extraction from 1.5 mg of plant tissue across a broad range of plant taxa. Additional purification prior to DNA amplification is not required due to the compatibility of the extraction solvents with qPCR. The method has tremendous potential for applications in plant biology that require DNA, including barcoding methods for agriculture, conservation, ecology, evolution, and forensics.
Novel developments in the study of estrogen in the pathogenesis and therapeutic intervention of lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Authors: Tai Jingye , Liu Shihua , Yan Xinping , Huang Luantai , Pan Yingxin , Huang Hongyuan , Zhao Zhen , Xu Beini , Liu Jie
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aimed to enhance the understanding of the role of estrogen in lymphangioleiomyomatosis(LAM) and to conclude the impact of estrogen-altering events on the condition and recent advances in estrogen-based treatments for LAM.

Results

LAM development is strongly linked to mutations in the tuberous sclerosis gene (TSC1/2) and the presence of estrogen. Estrogen plays a significant role in the spread of TSC2-deficient uterine leiomyoma cells to the lungs and the production of pulmonary LAM. Menstruation, pregnancy, estrogen medication, and other events that cause an increase in estrogen levels can trigger the disorder, leading to a sudden worsening of symptoms. Current findings do not support using estrogen-blocking therapy regimens. However, Faslodex, which is an estrogen receptor antagonist, presents new possibilities for future therapeutic approaches in LAM.

Conclusion

Estrogen is crucial in the development and spread of LAM. The use of estrogen inhibitors or estrogen receptor antagonists alone does not provide good control of the disease or even poses a greater risk, and the use of a combination of mTOR receptor inhibitors, complete estrogen receptor antagonists, estrogen inhibitors, and autophagy inhibitors targeting important signaling pathways in LAM pathogenesis may be of greater benefit to the patient.
Gastric SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4-UT): a clinicopathological analysis of four rare cases
Authors: Zhou Ping , Fu Yiyun , Wang Weiya , Tang Yuan , Jiang Lili
Published: June 2024

Background

SMARCA4, as one of the subunits of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, drives SMARCA4-deficient tumors. Gastric SMARCA4-deficient tumors may include gastric SMARCA4-deficient carcinoma and gastric SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4-UT). Gastric SMARCA4-UT is rare and challenging to diagnose in clinical practice. The present report aims to provide insight into the clinicopathological characteristics and genetic alterations of gastric SMARCA4-UTs.

Results

We retrospectively reported four rare cases of gastric SMARCA4-UTs. All four cases were male, aged between 61 and 82 years. These tumors presented as ulcerated and transmural masses with infiltration, staged as TNM IV in cases 1, 2 and 4, and TNM IIIA in case 3. Pathologically, four cases presented solid architecture with undifferentiated morphology. Cases 2 and 3 showed focal necrosis and focal rhabdoid morphology. Immunohistochemical staining showed negative expression of epithelial markers and deficient expression of SMARCA4. Furthermore, positivity for Syn (cases 1, 2 and 3) and SALL4 (cases 1 and 2) were observed. Mutant p53 expression occurred in four cases, resulting in strong and diffuse staining of p53 expression in cases 1, 2 and 4, and complete loss in case 3. The Ki67 proliferative index exceeded 80%. 25% (1/4, case 4) of cases had mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR). Two available cases (cases 1 and 3) were detected with SMRACA4 gene alterations. The response to neoadjuvant therapy was ineffective in case 1.

Conclusions

Gastric SMARCA4-UT is a rare entity of gastric cancer with a poor prognosis, predominantly occurs in male patients. The tumors are typically diagnosed at advanced stages and shows a solid architecture with undifferentiated morphology. Negative expression of epithelial markers and complete loss of SMARCA4 immunoexpression are emerging as a useful diagnostic tool for rare gastric SMARCA4-UTs.
Mitochondrial transfer from Adipose stem cells to breast cancer cells drives multi-drug resistance
Authors: Del Vecchio Vitale , Rehman Ayesha , Panda Sameer Kumar , Torsiello Martina , Marigliano Martina , Nicoletti Maria Maddalena , Ferraro Giuseppe Andrea , De Falco Vincenzo , Lappano Rosamaria , Lieto Eva , Pagliuca Francesca , Caputo Carlo , La Noce Marcella , Papaccio Gianpaolo , Tirino Virginia , Robinson Nirmal , Desiderio Vincenzo , Papaccio Federica
Published: June 2024

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is a complex disease, showing heterogeneity in the genetic background, molecular subtype, and treatment algorithm. Historically, treatment strategies have been directed towards cancer cells, but these are not the unique components of the tumor bulk, where a key role is played by the tumor microenvironment (TME), whose better understanding could be crucial to obtain better outcomes.

Methods

We evaluated mitochondrial transfer (MT) by co-culturing Adipose stem cells with different Breast cancer cells (BCCs), through MitoTracker assay, Mitoception, confocal and immunofluorescence analyses. MT inhibitors were used to confirm the MT by Tunneling Nano Tubes (TNTs). MT effect on multi-drug resistance (MDR) was assessed using Doxorubicin assay and ABC transporter evaluation. In addition, ATP production was measured by Oxygen Consumption rates (OCR) and Immunoblot analysis.

Results

We found that MT occurs via Tunneling Nano Tubes (TNTs) and can be blocked by actin polymerization inhibitors. Furthermore, in hybrid co-cultures between ASCs and patient-derived organoids we found a massive MT. Breast Cancer cells (BCCs) with ASCs derived mitochondria (ADM) showed a reduced HIF-1α expression in hypoxic conditions, with an increased ATP production driving ABC transporters-mediated multi-drug resistance (MDR), linked to oxidative phosphorylation metabolism rewiring.

Conclusions

We provide a proof-of-concept of the occurrence of Mitochondrial Transfer (MT) from Adipose Stem Cells (ASCs) to BC models. Blocking MT from ASCs to BCCs could be a new effective therapeutic strategy for BC treatment.