bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A LC-MS/MS based methodology for the environmental monitoring of healthcare settings contaminated with antineoplastic agents
Authors: Charlier Bruno , Coglianese Albino , De Rosa Federica , Cozzolino Armando , Boccia Giovanni , Borrelli Anna , Capunzo Mario , Genovese Giovanni , De Caro Francesco , Filippelli Amelia , Dal Piaz Fabrizio , Izzo Viviana
Published: March 2023

Background:

Adverse health events associated with the exposure of healthcare workers to antineoplastic drugs are well documented in literature and are often related to the chemical contamination of work surfaces. It is therefore crucial for healthcare professionals to validate the efficiency of safety procedures by periodic biological and environmental monitoring activities where the main methodological limitations are related to the complexity, in terms of chemical-physical features and chemical-biological stability, of the drugs analyzed.

Materials and methods:

Here we describe the evaluation and application of a UHPLC-MS/MS based protocol for the environmental monitoring of hospital working areas potentially contaminated with methotrexate, iphosphamide, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, irinotecan, and paclitaxel. This methodology was used to evaluate working areas devoted to the preparation of chemotherapeutics and combination regimens at the University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona” in Salerno (Italy).

Results:

Our analyses allowed to uncover critical aspects in both working protocols and workspace organization, which highlighted, among others, cyclophosphamide and iphosphamide contamination. Suitable adjustments adopted after our environmental monitoring campaign significantly reduced the exposure risk for healthcare workers employed in the unit analyzed.

Conclusion:

The use of sensitive analytical approaches such as LC-MS/MS coupled to an accurate wiping procedure in routine environmental monitoring allows to effectively improve chemical safety for exposed workers.
Teaching for a Digital World: Foundations, Practices, and Possibilities
Authors: McCool Lynn B. , Mitchell Alanah
Published: March 2023

Virtual teams have been adopted by organizations and studied for decades. However, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of technology-supported collaboration more than ever. This growing importance of virtual teamwork suggests that business education related to virtual team collaboration and communication is critical for students today, and universities play a significant role in equipping students with the knowledge and skillsets necessary to work in a digital world. This work reviews the literature on virtual teams and educational approaches used for teaching virtual team collaboration and communication and presents a framework for virtual team education. Survey findings and illustrative cases are gathered to demonstrate current virtual team education practices. The study concludes with recommendations for the education of virtual team knowledge and skills.
Households Health Care Financing Methods: Social Status Differences, Economic Implications and Clinical Outcomes Among Patients Admitted in a Pediatric Emergency Unit of a Tertiary Hospital in South West Nigeria
Authors: Taiwo Adekunle Bamidele , Fatunla Odunayo Adebukola , Ogundare Olatunde Ezra , Oluwayemi Oludare Isaac , Babatola Adefunke Olarinre , Ajite Adebukola Bidemi , Ajibola Ayotunde Emmanuel , Olajuyin Adebola , Sola-Oniyide Boluwatife , Olatunya Oladele Simeon
Published: March 2023

Background. The affordability of health care services by households within a country is determined by the health care financing methods used by her citizens. In accordance with World Health Organization (WHO), health services must be delivered equitably and without imposing financial hardship on the citizens. Aim. This study aimed to determine the pattern of households health care financing method and relate it to the social-background, economic implication and clinical outcome of care in pediatric emergency situations. Method: It is a cross-sectional descriptive study. Result. 210 children from different households were recruited. Majority (75.9%) of the children were aged 0 to 5 years, males (61.2%) and belonged to the low socio-economic status (95.7%). The overall median (IQR) cost of care, income and percentage of income spent on care were ₦10 700 (₦7580-₦19 700), ₦ 65000(₦38000-₦110 000) and 17.6% (7.1%-39.7%) respectively. Though 70 (34.8%) of the respondents were aware of health insurance scheme, only 12.8% were enrolled. There were significant differences in the households’ health care financing methods with respect to the socioeconomic status ( P = .010), paternal level of education ( P < .001), maternal occupation ( P = .020), paternal occupation ( P = .030) and distribution of income ( P < .001). Catastrophic spending was experienced by 67.4% of the household, all of whom paid via out-of-pocket payment (OOPP) ( P < .001), catastrophic health spending (CHS) was significantly associated with death and discharge against medical advice (DAMA) ( P = .023). All cases of mortality and 93% cases of DAMA occurred with paying out of pocket (OOP) ( P = .168). Conclusion. health care services were majorly paid for OOP among households in this study and CHS are high among these households. Clinical and financial outcomes were worse when health care services were paid through OOP.
Patient Perceptions of a Decision Support Tool for Men with Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Austria Mia , Kimberlin Colin , Le Tiffany , Lynch Kathleen A. , Ehdaie Behfar , Atkinson Thomas M. , Vickers Andrew J. , Carlsson Sigrid V.
Published: March 2023

Purpose. To evaluate patient perceptions of a Web-based decision aid for the treatment of localized prostate cancer. Methods. We assessed patient perceptions of a multicomponent, Web-based decision aid with a preference elicitation/values clarification exercise using adaptive conjoint analysis, the generation of a summary report, and provision of information about localized prostate cancer treatment options. Using a think-aloud approach, we conducted 21 cognitive interviews with prostate cancer patients presented with the decision aid prior to seeing their urologist. Thematic content analysis was used to examine patient perceptions of the tool’s components and content prior to engaging in shared decision making with their clinician. Results. Five themes were identified: 1) patients had some negative emotional reactions to the tool, pointing out what they perceived to be unnecessarily negative framing and language used; 2) patients were forced to stop and think about preferences while going through the tool and found this deliberation to be useful; 3) patients were confused by the tool; 4) patients tried to discern the intent of the conjoint analysis questions; and 5) there was a disconnect between patients’ negative reactions while using the tool and a contrasting general satisfaction with the final “values profile” created by the tool. Conclusions. Studies are needed to explore the disconnect between patients’ expressing negative reactions while going through some components of decision aids but satisfaction with the final output. In particular, we hypothesize that this effect might be explained by cognitive biases such as choice-supportive bias, hindsight bias, and the “IKEA effect.” This is one of the first projects to elicit patient reactions while they were completing a decision aid, and we recommend further similar, qualitative postprocess evaluation studies.

Highlights

We explored perceptions of a decision aid with education about localized prostate cancer treatment and preference elicitation using adaptive conjoint analysis. Patients found the tool useful but were also confused by it, tried to discern the intent of the questions, and expressed negative emotional reactions. In particular, there was a disconnect between patients’ negative reactions while using the tool and general satisfaction with the final values profile generated by the tool, which is an area for future research.
Urban land use transitions: Examining change over 19 years using sequence analysis. The case of South-East Queensland, Australia
Authors: Pyrohova Svitlana , Hu Jiafei , Corcoran Jonathan
Published: March 2023

The land use mosaic that characterises our urban environments is complex and subject to regular and on-going change and transition. Land use change takes place as cities seek to meet ever evolving population, economic, social, and environmental objectives. However, our empirical capacity to map, measure and monitor the geographical shifts in land use at a fine spatial granularity and how these aggregate across the urban environment remain very limited. In this paper, we draw on parcel level land use data for a large metropolitan region in Australia for a 19-year period and employ sequence analysis to delineate the location and timing of shifts in land use. Results reveal both similarities between jurisdictional regions alongside the unique land use transitions that go some way to highlight context specific mechanisms. This study demonstrates the utility of our empirical approach in its capacity to inform regional development strategies through revealing the type, timing and location of land use change in relation to land use policy and planning goals.
Why Do We Desire and Fear Care: Toward developing a holistic political approach
Authors: Fotaki Marianna
Published: March 2023

Care is a human need and capacity without which we cannot survive and flourish. However, care is often underpaid and considered an excessive burden in the economy despite being socially valued. Philosophical and political perspectives on vulnerability are essential for understanding the continuous undermining of care in organizations and society. This article draws on the feminist psychoanalytic idea of embodied vulnerability, defined as our intrinsic dependence on others, to explain the ambivalence surrounding care in contemporary societies and organizations. The argument I develop in this paper is that this dependency is erroneously associated with a weakness we must avoid or ignore. Neoliberal ideology – a dominant influence permeating public life – casts such interdependency as a moral failure and juxtaposes it with the fantasy of the rational individual, who is disembodied and free of any social obligations. In the paper, I challenge this view and argue for a deeper social and political conceptualization of care as an alternative basis for understanding the constitution of organizations and society. I draw on psychoanalytic insights as a footing for this conceptualization and elaborate on how it allows us to reframe care not only as residing in the fabric of relations underpinning organizations and society but as in an existential sense giving life to them. As I conclude in the paper, such an expanded and holistic view of care might help us address our societies’ profound challenges.
Improving Access to Home Blood Pressure Monitors at a Federally Qualified Health Center
Authors: Deshpande Isha , Kanwar Amrita , Swyers Kendra , Garza Aida , Litten Kathryn
Published: March 2023

Background: Self-monitoring of blood pressure (BP) clinically decreases BP. However, cost can limit access, especially in underserved populations. Objective: This mixed-methods pilot study aims to determine the impact of providing home BP monitors free of charge to patients at a federally qualified health center (FQHC) by quantifying the effect on BP and surveying patients to measure satisfaction and engagement. Methods: One hundred eighty patients with clinically diagnosed hypertension received BP monitors. Patient charts were reviewed to collect demographics and office BP readings 3 months before and after receiving a monitor. A 13-question phone survey was conducted to a sample of patients addressing satisfaction and engagement. Answers were based on a Likert scale and dichotomous yes/no. Results were analyzed with descriptive statistics and paired t tests. Results: The chart review demonstrated a significant mean decrease in systolic BP by 5.44 mm Hg ( P < 0.001, −8.03 to −2.84) and a mean decrease in diastolic BP by 2.70 mm Hg ( P < 0.001, −4.08 to −1.32) after the intervention. For those included who responded to the survey (13%), there was a significant mean increase in the frequency of checking BP per week by 1.5 Likert points ( P < 0.00001, −1.0 to −1.9), and a majority (57.8%) felt slightly or much more active in their health care in addition to other benefits. Conclusion: Providing BP monitors to FQHC patients free of charge may have contributed to a significantly decreased office BP, improved engagement, and satisfaction. This program removed cost barriers and allowed patients to be more active in their health care.
Inhibition of PD-L1 and tumor growth in triple-negative breast cancer using a magnetic nanovector with microRNA34a
Authors: Yang Seung-Hyun , Son Hye Young , Park Mirae , Rho Hyun Wook , Lee Hwunjae , Huh Yong-Min
Published: March 2023

Background

Clinical applications of RNA interference for cancer treatment and immune therapy require the development of simultaneous therapy and imaging systems for microRNA. This research was performed to fabricate the miRNA34a-loaded magnetic nanoparticles and investigate its anticancer effects against triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in mice model.

Results

Using two types of polymers to improve their water dispersibility and gene delivery, iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles were prepared for delivery of miRNA34a. The iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles were delivered to TNBC cells, and their efficacy was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Delivery of miRNA34a reduced TNBC cell migration and decreased the expression of PD-L1 at the mRNA and protein levels. In animal experiments, delivery of miRNA34a reduced tumor growth, and immunostaining and algorithmic analysis confirmed the decrease in PD-L1 expression.

Conclusion

This study is the first to modulate PD-L1 by delivering miRNA34a with magnetic nanoparticles, and the results suggest that miRNA34a can be delivered effectively using magnetic nanoparticles and has potential as a molecular imaging contrast agent.
Dual-sensitive and highly biocompatible O-carboxymethyl chitosan nanodroplets for prostate tumor ultrasonic imaging and treatment
Authors: Meng Dong , Guo Lu , Shi Dandan , Sun Xiao , Shang Mengmeng , Xiao Shan , Zhou Xiaoying , Zhao Yading , Wang Xiaoxuan , Li Jie
Published: March 2023

Nanosized drug delivery systems have rapidly emerged as a promising approach to tumor therapy, which still have many challenges in clinical application. In this study, doxorubicin-loaded O-carboxymethyl chitosan/perfluorohexane nanodroplets (O-CS-DOX NDs) were synthesized and functionally tested as an effective drug delivery system in vitro and in vivo. O-CS-DOX NDs with small size (159.6 nm) and good doxorubicin encapsuling ability showed pH- and ultrasound-dependent drug release profile and satisfying ultrasound imaging performance. With high biocompatibility and biosafety, these nanodroplets could accumulate in the tumor sites and exhibit high efficiency in inhibiting tumor growth with ultrasound irradiation. These stable, safe and smart O-CS-DOX NDs showed promising potential as a smart dual-responsive bomb for tumor ultrasonic imaging and treatment.
Boosting immunogenic cell death via hollow MnO2-based multiple stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems for improved cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Wu Yueyao , Wang Runtian , Shen Peiliang , Zhou Weijia , Chen Chao , Yang Kaiyong , Yang Jingjing , Song Yujun , Han Xin , Guan Xiaoxiang
Published: March 2023

Cancer treatment by inducing tumor cell immunogenic cell death (ICD) is critical for tumor therapy. However, ICD activation by single pathway is often limited in practical application due to its low efficiency. In addition, the low pH and anoxic microenvironments in solid tumors greatly limit the effective activation of ICD. Herein, hollow manganese dioxide (H-MnO2) nanomaterials were selected to load both Mitoxantrone (MTZ) and Chlorin e6 (Ce6) due to its hollow structure and ability to release drugs in the acidic environments. Thus, the synergy of photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT) and chemotherapy can induce the process of immunogenic cell death, stimulate the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), and activate the immune response to kill tumor cells dramatically. Efficient immunotherapeutic effects were obtained when MnO2-C/M-HA was given intravenously to 4T1 tumor-bearing BALB/c mice with 660 nm near-infrared laser irradiation. This study overcame the limitations of monotherapy and provided a multifunctional platform for tumor immunotherapy.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus and In-hospital Major Adverse Cardiac and Cerebrovascular Events (MACCEs) and postoperative complications among patients undergoing on-pump isolated coronary artery bypass surgery in Northeastern Iran
Authors: Nomali Mahin , Ayati Aryan , Tayebi Amirhossein , Heidari Mohammad Eghbal , Moghaddam Keyvan , Mosallami Soheil , Riahinokandeh Gholamali , Nomali Mahdis , Roshandel Gholamreza
Published: March 2023

Background

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a rapidly growing disorder worldwide, especially in the Middle East. A higher incidence of coronary artery diseases requiring coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery has been reported in patients with diabetes. We assessed the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and in-hospital major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) and postoperative complications among patients who underwent on-pump isolated CABG.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we used the data registered for CABG patients from two heart centers in the Golestan province (North of Iran) between 2007 and 2016. The study population included 1956 patients divided into two groups: 1062 non-diabetic patients and 894 patients with diabetes (fasting plasma glucose ≥126 mg/dl or using antidiabetic medications). The study outcome was in-hospital MACCEs, a composite outcome of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke and cardiovascular death, and postoperative complications, including postoperative arrhythmia, acute atrial fibrillation (AF), major bleeding (defined as reoperation due to bleeding), and acute kidney injury (AKI).

Results

During the 10-year study period, 1956 adult patients with a mean (SD) age of 59.0 (9.60) years were included. After adjustment for age, gender, ethnicity, obesity, opium consumption, and smoking, diabetes was a predictor of postoperative arrhythmia (AOR 1.30, 95% CI 1.08–1.57;P = 0.006). While it was not a predictor of in-hospital MACCEs (AOR 1.35, 95% CI 0.86, 2.11;P = 0.188), AF (AOR 0.85, 95% CI 0.60–1.19;P = 0.340), major bleeding (AOR 0.80, 95% CI 0.50, 1.30;P = 0.636) or AKI (AOR 1.29, 95% CI 0.42, 3.96; P 0.656) after CABG surgery.

Conclusion

Findings indicated that diabetes increased the risk of postoperative arrhythmia by 30%. However, we found similar in-hospital MACCEs, acute AF, major bleeding, and AKI following CABG surgery in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients.
Prognostic assessment capability of a five-gene signature in pancreatic cancer: a machine learning based-study
Authors: Zhang Xuanfeng , Yang Lulu , Zhang Dong , Wang Xiaochuan , Bu Xuefeng , Zhang Xinhui , Cui Long
Published: March 2023

Background

A prognostic assessment method with good sensitivity and specificity plays an important role in the treatment of pancreatic cancer patients. Finding a way to evaluate the prognosis of pancreatic cancer is of great significance for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Methods

In this study, GTEx dataset and TCGA dataset were merged together for differential gene expression analysis. Univariate Cox regression and Lasso regression were used to screen variables in the TCGA dataset. Screening the optimal prognostic assessment model is then performed by gaussian finite mixture model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used as an indicator to assess the predictive ability of the prognostic model, the validation process was performed on the GEO datasets.

Results

Gaussian finite mixture model was then used to build 5-gene signature (ANKRD22, ARNTL2, DSG3, KRT7, PRSS3). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves suggested the 5-gene signature performed well on both the training and validation datasets.

Conclusions

This 5-gene signature performed well on both our chosen training dataset and validation dataset and provided a new way to predict the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients.
Association of HMGB1 levels in synovial fluid with the severity of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis
Authors: Shao Bo , Xu Yingjie , Jia Mengying , Li Chen-xi , Gong Zhong-cheng
Published: March 2023

Background

HMGB1 usually serves as a damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) molecule (also known as alarmin) that regulates the inflammatory and immune responses via different receptors or direct uptake. Numerous studies have reported the association between HMGB1 and inflammatory diseases; however, its role in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis (OA) has not been elucidated. In this retrospective study, we aimed to investigate HMGB1 levels in the synovial fluid (SF) in patients with TMJOA and TMID, their correlation with TMJOA and TMID severity, and the therapeutic effect of sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid, HA) on TMJOA.

Methods

SF samples were analyzed for 30 patients with TMJ internal derangement (TMJID) and TMJOA, along with visual analog scale (VAS) scores, radiographic stages, and mandibular functional limitations. The SF levels of HMGB1, IL-1β, IL-18, PGE2, RAGE, TLR4, and iNOS were determined via an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. To evaluate the therapeutic effects of HA, pre-treatment and post-treatment clinical symptoms were also compared in patients of the TMJOA group who had received an intra-articular injection of HA.

Results

VAS and Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS) scores were significantly higher in the TMJOA group than in the TMNID group, as were SF levels of HMGB1, TLR4, IL-1β, IL-18, PGE2, and iNOS. The synovial HMGB1 level was positively correlated with the VAS score (r = 0.5512, p = 0.0016) and mandibular functional limitations (r = 0.4684, p = 0.0054). The cut-off value for the HMGB1 level as a diagnostic biomarker was 986.8 pg/ml. The SF level of HMGB1 yielded an area under the curve value (AUC) of 0.8344 for predicting TMJOA. HA alleviated TMJ disorders by significantly reducing the VAS score and improving the maximum extent of mouth opening in both the TMJID and TMJOA groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, patients in both the TMJID and TMJOA groups exhibited significant improvement in the JFLS score following HA treatment.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that HMGB1 is a potential marker for predicting the severity of TMJOA. Intra-articular HA injection exerts a positive therapeutic effect on TMJOA; however, further investigations are warranted to validate its therapeutic effect in the late phase of visco-supplementation treatment.
Family structure and multisite musculoskeletal pain in adolescence: a Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 study
Authors: Heikkala Eveliina , Oura Petteri , Karppinen Jaro , Herbert Annie , Varis Heidi , Hagnäs Maria , Mikkola Ilona , Paananen Markus
Published: March 2023

Background

Family structure is suggested to be associated with adolescent pain, but evidence on its association with multisite MS pain is sparse. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the potential associations between family structure (‘single-parent family’, ‘reconstructed family’, and ‘two-parent family’) and multisite musculoskeletal (MS) pain in adolescence.

Methods

The dataset was based on the 16-year-old Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 adolescents with available data on family structure, multisite MS pain, and a potential confounder (n = 5,878). The associations between family structure and multisite MS pain were analyzed with binomial logistic regression and modelled as unadjusted, as the evaluated potential confounder, mother’s educational level, did not meet the criteria for a confounder.

Results

Overall, 13% of the adolescents had a ‘single-parent family’ and 8% a ‘reconstructed family’. Adolescents living in a single-parent family had 36% higher odds of multisite MS pain compared to adolescents from two-parent families (the reference) (Odds Ratio [OR]: 1.36, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.17 to 1.59). Belonging to a ‘reconstructed family’ was associated with 39% higher odds of multisite MS pain (OR 1.39, 1.14 to 1.69).

Conclusion

Family structure may have a role in adolescent multisite MS pain. Future research is needed on causality between family structure and multisite MS pain, to establish if there is a need for targeted support.
Oral epithelial dysplasia and aphthous ulceration in a patient with ulcerative colitis: a case report
Authors: Sun Kai , Xia Rong-Hui
Published: March 2023

Background

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease with apparent extraintestinal manifestations, including in the oral cavity. Oral epithelial dysplasia, an exclusive histopathological diagnosis that is used to predict malignant transformation, has never been reported with ulcerative colitis. Herein, we report a case with ulcerative colitis that was diagnosed via extraintestinal manifestations of oral epithelial dysplasia and aphthous ulceration.

Case presentation

A 52-year-old male suffering from ulcerative colitis came to our hospital complaining of pain on his tongue with a history of 1 week. Clinical examination revealed multiple painful oval ulcers on the ventral surfaces of the tongue. Histopathological examination indicated ulcerative lesion and mild dysplasia in the adjacent epithelium. Direct immunofluorescence demonstrated negative staining along the junction of the epithelium and lamina propria. Immunohistochemical staining with Ki-67, p16, p53 and podoplanin was used to rule out the reactive cellular atypia to inflammation and ulceration of the mucosa. A diagnosis of aphthous ulceration and oral epithelial dysplasia was made. The patient was treated with mouthwash (composed of lidocaine, gentamicin and dexamethasone) and triamcinolone acetonide oral ointment. Oral ulceration healed after one week of treatment. At the 12-month follow-up, minor scarring was observed on the right ventral surface of the tongue, and the patient felt no discomfort in the oral mucosa.

Conclusion

Oral epithelial dysplasia might also occur in patients with ulcerative colitis despite the low incidence, which should broaden the understanding of oral manifestations of ulcerative colitis.
A novel use of an artificially intelligent Chatbot and a live, synchronous virtual question-and answer session for fellowship recruitment
Authors: Yi Peter K. , Ray Neil D. , Segall Noa
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Academic departments universally communicate information about their programs using static websites. In addition to websites, some programs have even ventured out into social media (SM). These bidirectional forms of SM interaction show great promise; even hosting a live Question and Answer (Q&A) session has the potential for program branding. Artificial Intelligence (AI) usage in the form of a chatbot has expanded on websites and in SM. The potential use of chatbots, for the purposes of trainee recruitment, is novel and underutilized. With this pilot study, we aimed to answer the question; can the use of an Artificially Intelligent Chatbot and a Virtual Question-and-Answer Session aid in recruitment in a Post-COVID-19 era?

Methods

We held three structured Question-and-Answer Sessions over a period of 2 weeks. This preliminary study was performed after completion of the three Q&A sessions, in March–May, 2021. All 258 applicants to the pain fellowship program were invited via email to participate in the survey after attending one of the Q&A sessions. A 16-item survey assessing participants’ perception of the chatbot was administered.

Results

Forty-eight pain fellowship applicants completed the survey, for an average response rate of 18.6%. In all, 35 (73%) of survey respondents had used the website chatbot, and 84% indicated that it had found them the information they were seeking.

Conclusion

We employed an artificially intelligent chatbot on the department website to engage in a bidirectional exchange with users to adapt to changes brought on by the pandemic. SM engagement via chatbot and Q&A sessions can leave a favorable impression and improve the perception of a program.
Modular microfluidics for life sciences
Authors: Wu Jialin , Fang Hui , Zhang Jun , Yan Sheng
Published: March 2023

The advancement of microfluidics has enabled numerous discoveries and technologies in life sciences. However, due to the lack of industry standards and configurability, the design and fabrication of microfluidic devices require highly skilled technicians. The diversity of microfluidic devices discourages biologists and chemists from applying this technique in their laboratories. Modular microfluidics, which integrates the standardized microfluidic modules into a whole, complex platform, brings the capability of configurability to conventional microfluidics. The exciting features, including portability, on-site deployability, and high customization motivate us to review the state-of-the-art modular microfluidics and discuss future perspectives. In this review, we first introduce the working mechanisms of the basic microfluidic modules and evaluate their feasibility as modular microfluidic components. Next, we explain the connection approaches among these microfluidic modules, and summarize the advantages of modular microfluidics over integrated microfluidics in biological applications. Finally, we discuss the challenge and future perspectives of modular microfluidics.
Association of admission neutrophil serine proteinases levels with the outcomes of acute ischemic stroke: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Li Lingzhi , Han Ziping , Wang Rongliang , Fan Junfen , Zheng Yangmin , Huang Yuyou , Yang Zhenhong , Yan Feng , Liu Ping , Zhao Haiping , Ma Qingfeng , Luo Yumin
Published: March 2023

Background

Neutrophil serine proteinases (NSPs), released by activated neutrophils, are key proteins involved in the pathophysiologic processes of stroke. NSPs are also implicated in the process and response of thrombolysis. This study aimed to analyze three NSPs (neutrophil elastase, cathepsin G, and proteinase 3) in relation to acute ischemic stroke (AIS) outcomes and in relation to the outcomes of patients treated with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (IV-rtPA).

Methods

Among 736 patients prospectively recruited at the stroke center from 2018 to 2019, 342 patients diagnosed with confirmed AIS were included. Plasma neutrophil elastase (NE), cathepsin G (CTSG), and proteinase 3 (PR3) concentrations were measured on admission. The primary endpoint was unfavorable outcome defined as modified Rankin Scale score 3–6 at 3 months, and the secondary endpoints were symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) within 48 h, and mortality within 3 months. In the subgroup of patients who received IV-rtPA, post-thrombolysis early neurological improvement (ENI) (defined as National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score = 0 or decrease of ≥ 4 within 24 h after thrombolysis) was also included as the secondary endpoint. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association between NSPs levels and AIS outcomes.

Results

Higher NE and PR3 plasma levels were associated with the 3-month mortality and 3-month unfavorable outcome. Higher NE plasma levels were also associated with the risk of sICH after AIS. After adjusting for potential confounders, plasma NE level > 229.56 ng/mL (odds ratio [OR] = 4.478 [2.344–8.554]) and PR3 > 388.77 ng/mL (OR = 2.805 [1.504–5.231]) independently predicted the 3-month unfavorable outcome. Regarding rtPA treatment, patients with NE plasma concentration > 177.22 ng/mL (OR = 8.931 [2.330–34.238]) or PR3 > 388.77 ng/mL (OR = 4.275 [1.045–17.491]) were over 4 times more likely to suffer unfavorable outcomes after rtPA treatment. The addition of NE and PR3 to clinical predictors of unfavorable functional outcome after AIS and the outcome after rtPA treatment improved discrimination as well as reclassification (integrated discrimination improvement = 8.2% and 18.1%, continuous net reclassification improvement = 100.0% and 91.8%, respectively).

Conclusions

Plasma NE and PR3 are novel and independent predictors of 3-month functional outcomes after AIS. Plasma NE and PR3 also possess predictive value to identify patients with unfavorable outcomes after rtPA treatment. NE is probably an important mediator of the effects of neutrophils on stroke outcomes, which worth further investigation.
Experiences and challenges of using community health worker-led mechanism in supporting HIV disclosure among adults living with HIV in heterosexual relationships in the rural Uganda
Authors: Lukyamuzi Zubair , Ssuna Bashir , Mirembe Ruth Nabisere , Mawanda Denis , Kinkumu Paul , Nalugo Christine , Adikin Esther , Namisango Faridah , Nakalega Rita , Atuhaire Patience , Musoke Philippa , Butler Lisa M.
Published: March 2023

Background

HIV status disclosure among sexual partners is vital in HIV management. Community health workers (CHW) support HIV disclosure among adults living with HIV (ALHIV) in sexual relationships with disclosure difficulties. However, experiences and challenges of using CHW-led disclosure support mechanism were not documented. This study explored experiences and challenges involved in using CHW-led disclosure support mechanism among ALHIV in heterosexual relationships in the rural Uganda.

Methods

This was a phenomenological qualitative study involving in-depth interviews among CHWs and ALHIV with HIV disclosure difficulties to sexual partners in greater Luwero region, Uganda. We conducted 27 interviews among purposively selected CHWs and participants who had participated in the CHW-led disclosure support mechanism. Interviews were conducted until saturation was reached; and analysis was done using inductive and deductive content analysis in Atlas.

Results

All respondents viewed HIV disclosure as an important strategy in HIV management. Provision of adequate counseling and support to those intending to disclose was instrumental for successful disclosure. However, fear of the negative disclosure outcomes was viewed as a barrier to disclosure. The CHWs were viewed as having an added advantage in supporting disclosure as opposed to the routine disclosure counseling. However, HIV disclosure using CHW-led support mechanism would be limited by possible bleach of client’s confidentiality. Therefore, respondents thought that appropriate selection of CHWs would improve their trust in the community. Additionally, providing CHWs with adequate training and facilitation during the disclosure support mechanism was viewed to improve their work.

Conclusion

Community health workers were viewed as being more supportive in HIV disclosure among ALHIV with disclosure difficulties to sexual partners compared to routine facility based disclosure counseling. Therefore, near location CHW-led disclosure mechanism was acceptable and useful in supporting HIV disclosure among HIV-affected sexual partners in rural settings.
Anemonin reduces hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and extracellular matrix degradation in nucleus pulposus cells by regulating NOX4/NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Ma Zhijia , Yu Pengfei , Li Xiaochun , Dai Feng , Jiang Hong , Liu Jintao
Published: March 2023

Background

Excessive oxidative stress plays a critical role in the progression of various diseases, including intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD). Recent studies have found that anemonin (ANE) possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the role of ANE in IVDD is still unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the effect and mechanism of ANE on H2O2 induced degeneration of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs).

Methods

NPCs were pretreated with ANE, and then treated with H2O2. NOX4 was upregulated by transfection of pcDNA-NOX4 into NPCs. Cytotoxicity was detected by MTT, oxidative stress-related indicators and inflammatory factors were measured by ELISA, mRNA expression was assessed by RT-PCR, and protein expression was tested by western blot.

Results

ANE attenuated H2O2-induced inhibition of NPCs activity. H2O2 enhanced oxidative stress, namely, increased ROS and MDA levels and decreased SOD level. However, these were suppressed and pretreated by ANE. ANE treatment repressed the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α) in H2O2-induced NPCs. ANE treatment also prevented the degradation of extracellular matrix induced by H2O2, showing the downregulation of MMP-3, 13 and ADAMTS-4, 5 and the upregulation of collagen II. NOX4 is a key factor regulating oxidative stress. Our study confirmed that ANE could restrain NOX4 and p-NF-κB. In addition, overexpression of NOX4 counteracted the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of ANE in H2O2-induced NPCs, and the inhibition of the degradation of extracellular matrix induced by ANE was also reversed by overexpression of NOX4.

Conclusion

ANE repressed oxidative stress, inflammation and extracellular matrix degradation in H2O2-induced NPCs by inhibiting NOX4/NF-κB pathway. Our study indicated that ANE might be a candidate drug for the treatment of IVDD.
Therapy of traumatic brain injury by modern agents and traditional Chinese medicine
Authors: Wei Chunzhu , Wang Jingbo , Yu Jintao , Tang Qing , Liu Xinjie , Zhang Yanlong , Cui Dandan , Zhu Yanqiong , Mei Yanli , Wang Yanjun , Wang Wenzhu
Published: March 2023

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of disability and death, and the social burden of mortality and morbidity caused by TBI is significant. Under the influence of comprehensive factors, such as social environment, lifestyle, and employment type, the incidence of TBI continues to increase annually. Current pharmacotherapy of TBI mainly focuses on symptomatic supportive treatment, aiming to reduce intracranial pressure, ease pain, alleviate irritability, and fight infection. In this study, we summarized numerous studies covering the use of neuroprotective agents in different animal models and clinical trials after TBI. However, we found that no drug has been approved as specifically effective for the treatment of TBI. Effective therapeutic strategies for TBI remain an urgent need, and attention is turning toward traditional Chinese medicine. We analyzed the reasons why existing high-profile drugs had failed to show clinical benefits and offered our views on the research of traditional herbal medicine for treating TBI.
Evaluating the efficacy of an online, family-based intervention to promote adolescent sexual health: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guilamo-Ramos Vincent , Benzekri Adam , Thimm-Kaiser Marco
Published: March 2023

Background

Adolescents in the U.S. experience significant negative sexual health outcomes, representing a public health priority in the U.S. Research shows that while parents play an influential role in shaping adolescent sexual behavior, surprisingly few programs engage parents in existing programming. Moreover, most efficacious parent-based programs focus on young adolescents, and few utilize delivery mechanisms that facilitate broad reach and scale-up. To address these gaps, we propose to test the efficacy of an online-delivered, parent-based intervention adapted to address both younger and older adolescent sexual risk behavior.

Methods

In this parallel, two-arm, superiority randomized controlled trial (RCT), we propose to evaluate Families Talking Together Plus (FTT+), an adaptation of an existing and efficacious FTT parent-based intervention, in shaping sexual risk behavior among adolescents aged 12–17 and delivered via a teleconferencing application (e.g., Zoom). The study population will include n=750 parent–adolescent dyads recruited from public housing developments in the Bronx, New York. Adolescents will be eligible if they are between the ages of 12 and 17 years of age, self-report as Latino and/or Black, have a parent or primary caregiver, and are South Bronx residents. Parent–adolescent dyads will complete a baseline survey, after which they will be assigned to either the FTT+ intervention condition (n=375) or the passive control condition (n=375) in a 1:1 allocation ratio. Parents and adolescents in each condition will complete follow-up assessments 3 and 9 months post-baseline. The primary outcomes will include sexual debut and ever sex, and the secondary outcomes will include the frequency of sex acts, number of lifetime sexual partners, number of unprotected sex acts, and linkage to health and educational/vocational services in the community. We will utilize intent-to-treat analyses of 9-month outcomes and single degree of freedom contrasts comparing the intervention to the control group for primary and secondary outcomes.

Discussion

The proposed evaluation and analysis of the FTT+ intervention will address gaps in the current cadre of parent-based programs. If efficacious, FTT+ would represent a model for scale-up and adoption of parent-based approaches designed to address adolescent sexual health in the U.S.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04731649. Registered on February 1, 2021.
Proteomics of high-density lipoprotein subfractions and subclinical atherosclerosis in type 1 diabetes mellitus: a case–control study
Authors: Toyoshima Marcos Tadashi K. , Santana Monique F. M. , Silva Amanda R. M. , Mello Gabriela B. , Santos-Bezerra Daniele P. , Goes Marisa F. S. , Bosco Adriana A. , Caramelli Bruno , Ronsein Graziella E. , Correa-Giannella Maria Lucia , Passarelli Marisa
Published: March 2023

Background

Subclinical atherosclerosis is frequently observed in type 1 diabetes (T1D) although the mechanisms and markers involved in the evolution to established cardiovascular disease are not well known. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol in T1D is normal or even high, and changes in its functionality and proteomics are considered. Our aim was to evaluate the proteomics of HDL subfractions in T1D and control subjects and its association with clinical variables, subclinical atherosclerosis markers and HDL functionality.

Methods

A total of 50 individuals with T1D and 30 matched controls were included. Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN), and ten-year cardiovascular risk (ASCVDR) were determined. Proteomics (parallel reaction monitoring) was determined in isolated HDL2 and HDL3 that were also utilized to measure cholesterol efflux from macrophages.

Results

Among 45 quantified proteins, 13 in HDL2 and 33 in HDL3 were differentially expressed in T1D and control subjects. Six proteins related to lipid metabolism, one to inflammatory acute phase, one to complement system and one to antioxidant response were more abundant in HDL2, while 14 lipid metabolism, three acute-phase, three antioxidants and one transport in HDL3 of T1D subjects. Three proteins (lipid metabolism, transport, and unknown function) were more abundant in HDL2; and ten (lipid metabolism, transport, protease inhibition), more abundant in HDL3 of controls. Individuals with T1D had higher PWV and ten-year ASCVDR, and lower FMD, Cholesterol efflux from macrophages was similar between T1D and controls. Proteins in HDL2 and HDL3, especially related to lipid metabolism, correlated with PWV, CAN, cholesterol efflux, HDLc, hypertension, glycemic control, ten-year ASCVDR, and statins use.

Conclusion

HDL proteomics can be predictive of subclinical atherosclerosis in type 1 diabetes. Proteins that are not involved in reverse cholesterol transport may be associated with the protective role of HDL.
Insights from using an outcomes measurement properties search filter and conducting citation searches to locate psychometric articles of tools used to measure context attributes
Authors: Santos Wilmer J. , Hutchinson Alison M. , Rader Tamara , Graham Ian D. , Watkins Vanessa , Candido Ligyana Korki de , Greenough Megan , Squires Janet E.
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To describe our experience with using a methodological outcomes measurement search filter (precise and sensitive versions of a filter designed to locate articles that report on psychometric properties of measurement tools) and citation searches to locate psychometric articles for tools that can be used to measure context attributes. To compare the precise filter when used alone and with reference list checking to citation searching according to number of records found, precision, and sensitivity.

Results

Using the precise filter, we located 130 of 150 (86.6%) psychometric articles related to 22 of 31 (71.0%) tools that potentially measured an attribute of context. In a subset of six tools, the precise filter alone was more precise than searching with the precise filter combined with reference list searching, or citation searching alone. The precise filter combined with reference list checking was the most sensitive search method examined. Overall, we found the precise filter helpful for our project as it decreased record screening time. For non-patient reported outcomes tools, we had less success with locating psychometric articles using the precise filter because some psychometric articles were not indexed in PubMed. More research that systematically evaluates database searching methods is needed to validate our findings.
Unapparent systemic effects of regional anticoagulation with citrate in continuous renal replacement therapy: a narrative review
Authors: Boer Willem , Verbrugghe Walter , Hoste Eric , Jacobs Rita , Jorens Philippe G.
Published: March 2023

The use of citrate, through reversible binding of calcium, has become the preferred choice for anticoagulation in continuous renal replacement therapy in the critically ill patient. Though generally considered as very efficacious in acute kidney injury, this type of anticoagulation can cause acid–base disorders as well as citrate accumulation and overload, phenomena which have been well described. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide an overview of some other, non-anticoagulation effects of citrate chelation during its use as anticoagulant. We highlight the effects seen on the calcium balance and hormonal status, phosphate and magnesium balance, as well as oxidative stress resulting from these unapparent effects. As most of these data on these non-anticoagulation effects have been obtained in small observational studies, new and larger studies documenting both short- and long-term effects should be undertaken. Subsequent future guidelines for citrate-based continuous renal replacement therapy should take not only the metabolic but also these unapparent effects into account.