bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prior Musculoskeletal Injury and Components of Physical Fitness in Military Personnel: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis
Authors: Garcia Rafael Chieza Fortes , Muniz Adriane Mara de Souza , Jacinto Douglas de Castro , Bunn Priscila Dos Santos
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Military personnel confront heightened risks of musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) because of the demanding nature of their duties, contributing to restricted active duty and financial burdens. Although preventable factors like training and physical fitness influence some injuries, understanding the enduring effects of previous MSIs on physical fitness in military personnel remains a critical gap. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze this impact.

Materials and Methods

In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted, focusing on military personnel with and without a history of MSIs. Physical fitness components were assessed via observational studies, with isokinetic peak torque values as primary metrics. Quality assessments utilized the NIH Quality Assessment Tool and GRADE framework.

Results

Out of 36 papers, 6 met inclusion criteria, with 4 included in the meta-analysis. Across 1,267 participants, individuals with prior MSIs exhibited a significant reduction in the pooled effect size for isokinetic peak muscle force, with d+ = −0.25 (95% CI: −0.36 to −0.13), notably affecting knee and shoulder regions. These findings underscore the pervasive impact of MSIs on military personnel’s physical performance, necessitating targeted interventions.

Conclusion

Military personnel with prior MSIs exhibit enduring deficits in isokinetic peak muscle force, particularly in knee and shoulder regions. However, evidence on the impact of previous injuries on other physical fitness components remains limited. Further research is crucial to understanding the multifaceted impact of MSIs on diverse aspects of physical performance, informing comprehensive injury prevention strategies and optimizing performance outcomes among military personnel.
Can the affected intestinal segment visualized on abdominal ultrasound predict gastrointestinal tract bleeding in immunoglobulin A vasculitis?
Authors: Polat Merve Cansu , Ekici Tekin Zahide , Keçeli Avni Merter , Çelikel Elif , Güngörer Vildan , Karagöl Cüneyt , Kaplan Melike Mehveş , Öner Nimet , Öztürk Didem , Özçelik Emine , Işıklar Ekici Mehveş , Uğur Es Yasemin , Yoğun Sultan Nilay , Çelikel Acar Banu
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to evaluate immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV) patients with gastrointestinal (GI) tract involvement and to reveal the relationship between the location and extent of the affected intestinal segment detected on the initial abdominal ultrasound and GI tract bleeding.

Methods

This medical record review study was conducted on 117 IgAV patients with GI tract involvement between January 2016 and June 2023. Patients were divided into two groups: those with (n = 28) and without (n = 89) GI tract bleeding. Predictors of GI tract bleeding were investigated by comparing demographic, clinical characteristics, and laboratory findings.

Results

Gender, age at diagnosis, symptoms at admission, rash distribution, GI tract complaints, and the elapsed time until the development of GI tract symptoms were similar in both groups. There was no difference between small intestinal, large intestinal, or small + large intestinal involvement (P = .89). The ileum was the most commonly affected intestinal segment in patients with and without GI tract bleeding (P = .37). Jejunal wall thickening (P = .04) and the number of affected intestinal segments (P = .008) were higher in patients with GI tract bleeding.

Conclusions

In IgAV patients, jejunum involvement and affected multiple intestinal segments shown by abdominal ultrasound are associated with GI tract bleeding.
dbAMP 3.0: updated resource of antimicrobial activity and structural annotation of peptides in the post-pandemic era
Authors: Yao Lantian , Guan Jiahui , Xie Peilin , Chung Chia-Ru , Zhao Zhihao , Dong Danhong , Guo Yilin , Zhang Wenyang , Deng Junyang , Pang Yuxuan , Liu Yulan , Peng Yunlu , Horng Jorng-Tzong , Chiang Ying-Chih , Lee Tzong-Yi
Published: November 2024

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most urgent global health threats, especially in the post-pandemic era. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) offer a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics, driving growing interest in recent years. dbAMP is a comprehensive database offering extensive annotations on AMPs, including sequence information, functional activity data, physicochemical properties and structural annotations. In this update, dbAMP has curated data from over 5200 publications, encompassing 33,065 AMPs and 2453 antimicrobial proteins from 3534 organisms. Additionally, dbAMP utilizes ESMFold to determine the three-dimensional structures of AMPs, providing over 30,000 structural annotations that facilitate structure-based functional insights for clinical drug development. Furthermore, dbAMP employs molecular docking techniques, providing over 100 docked complexes that contribute useful insights into the potential mechanisms of AMPs. The toxicity and stability of AMPs are critical factors in assessing their potential as clinical drugs. The updated dbAMP introduced an efficient tool for evaluating the hemolytic toxicity and half-life of AMPs, alongside an AMP optimization platform for designing AMPs with high antimicrobial activity, reduced toxicity and increased stability. The updated dbAMP is freely accessible at https://awi.cuhk.edu.cn/dbAMP/. Overall, dbAMP represents a comprehensive and essential resource for AMP analysis and design, poised to advance antimicrobial strategies in the post-pandemic era.
SETDB1 activity is globally directed by H3K14 acetylation via its Triple Tudor Domain
Authors: Chandrasekaran Thyagarajan T , Choudalakis Michel , Bröhm Alexander , Weirich Sara , Kouroukli Alexandra G , Ammerpohl Ole , Rathert Philipp , Bashtrykov Pavel , Jeltsch Albert
Published: November 2024

SETDB1 (SET domain bifurcated histone lysine methyltransferase 1) is a major protein lysine methyltransferase trimethylating lysine 9 on histone H3 (H3K9) which is involved in heterochromatin formation and silencing of repeat elements (REs). It contains a unique Triple Tudor Domain (3TD), which specifically binds the dual modification of H3K14ac in the presence of H3K9me1/2/3. Here, we explored the role of the 3TD H3–tail interaction for the H3K9 methylation activity of SETDB1. We generated a binding reduced 3TD mutant and demonstrate in biochemical methylation assays on peptides and recombinant nucleosomes containing H3K14ac and H3K14ac analogs, respectively, that H3K14 acetylation is crucial for the 3TD mediated recruitment of SETDB1. We also observe this effect in cells where SETDB1 binding and activity is globally correlated with H3K14ac, and knockout of the H3K14 acetyltransferase HBO1 causes a drastic reduction in H3K9me3 levels at SETDB1 dependent sites. Regions with DNA hypomethylation after SETDB1 knockout also show an enrichment in SETDB1-dependent H3K9me3 and H3K14ac. Further analyses revealed that 3TD is particularly important at specific target regions like L1M REs, where H3K9me3 cannot be efficiently reconstituted by the 3TD mutant of SETDB1. In summary, our data demonstrate that the H3K9me3 and H3K14ac are not antagonistic marks but rather the presence of H3K14ac is required for SETDB1 recruitment via 3TD binding to H3K9me1/2/3-K14ac regions and establishment of H3K9me3.
Acquired and genetic drivers of C3 and C5 convertase dysregulation in C3 glomerulopathy and immunoglobulin-associated MPGN
Authors: Roquigny Julia , Meuleman Marie-Sophie , El Sissy Carine , Martins Paula Vieira , Meri Seppo , Duval Anna , Le Quintrec Moglie , Fakhouri Fadi , Chauvet Sophie , Frémeaux-Bacchi Véronique
Published: November 2024

Dysregulation of the alternative pathway of complement plays a central role in the pathophysiology of C3 glomerulopathy (C3G). Various autoimmune and genetic factors targeting the alternative pathway have been associated with both C3G and primary immunoglobulin-associated membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (Ig-MPGN), suggesting shared pathophysiological mechanisms. This review highlights the wide range of disease drivers identified that mainly target components or protein complexes of the alternative pathway, both in C3G and Ig-MPGN. Nephritic factors, which constitute a heterogeneous group of autoantibodies targeting the C3 or the C5 convertase, are the most common abnormalities. Monoclonal gammopathies are frequent in aging adults. They may promote complement activation and have in some cases also been found to target alternative pathway regulatory proteins. Additionally, some patients with C3G and Ig-MPGN carry rare variants in genes encoding complement activating or regulating proteins of the alternative pathway. This review provides an informative overview of pathogenetic mechanisms associated with each abnormality, acting at different steps in the complement cascade. The diversity of targets involved in the C3G pathophysiology suggests the potential benefit of therapeutical approaches tailored to the underlying disease drivers, with a pivotal impact upstream or at the level of the C3 or C5 convertase activity.
Postoperative NEOadjuvant TEMozolomide followed by chemoradiotherapy versus upfront chemoradiotherapy for glioblastoma multiforme (NEOTEM) trial: Interim results
Authors: Sharifian Azadeh , Kazemian Ali , Farzin Mostafa , Amirkhani Nikan , Farazmand Borna , Naderi Soheil , Khalilian Alireza , Pourrashidi Ahmad , Amjad Ghazaleh , Kolahdouzan Kasra , Abyaneh Romina , Jablonska Paola Anna , Ghalehtaki Reza
Published: November 2024

Background

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor with poor survival rates despite current treatments. The standard of care (SOC) includes surgery, followed by radiotherapy plus concurrent and adjuvant chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ). This phase II trial assessed the safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant TMZ (nTMZ) before and during chemoradiotherapy in newly diagnosed GBM patients.

Methods

Newly diagnosed GBM patients who underwent maximal safe resection were randomized into 2 groups. One received nTMZ before standard chemoradiotherapy and adjuvant TMZ (intervention). The other received standard chemoradiotherapy followed by adjuvant TMZ (control). Primary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) at 6 and 12 months. Secondary endpoints included overall survival, radiological and clinical responses, and adverse events.

Results

Of 35 patients, 16 were in the intervention group and 19 in the control group. Median PFS was 9 months (95% CI: 3.93–14.06) versus 3 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.98–4.01) in the control and intervention groups (P = .737), with a high progression rate (73.4%) during nTMZ treatment. The 6-month PFS rates were 58% versus 25% (P = .042), and 12-month PFS rates were 26% versus 25% (P = .390) in the control and intervention groups, respectively. Patients with unmethylated O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and those with good performance status (PS) had significantly worse PFS with nTMZ.  However, those who underwent larger extent of resection exhibited significantly better PFS  with nTMZ. Adverse events were similar between groups.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant TMZ before SOC chemoradiotherapy did not improve outcomes for newly diagnosed GBM patients and is unsuitable for those with unmethylated MGMT and good PS. However, It may benefit patients with near or gross total resection. Further research is needed to refine GBM treatment strategies.
Tailoring rhodium-based metal-organic layers for parahydrogen-induced polarization: achieving 20% polarization of 1H in liquid phase
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Zhang Qi , Chen Tao , Zheng Zeyu , Song Yuhang , Liu Huichong , Chen Ziqiao , Wang Jing , Wang Haoshang , Sun Huijun , Wang Xinchang , Chen Zhong , Wang Cheng , Tian Zhongqun
Published: November 2024

Heterogeneous catalysts for parahydrogen-induced polarization (HET-PHIP) would be useful for producing highly sensitive contrasting agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the liquid phase, as they can be removed by simple filtration. Although homogeneous hydrogenation catalysts are highly efficient for PHIP, their sensitivity decreases when anchored on porous supports due to slow substrate diffusion to the active sites and rapid depolarization within the channels. To address this challenge, we explored 2D metal-organic layers (MOLs) as supports for active Rh complexes with diverse phosphine ligands and tunable hydrogenation activities, taking advantage of the accessible active sites and chemical adaptability of the MOLs. By adjusting the electronic properties of phosphines, TPP-MOL-Rh-dppb (TPP = tris(4-carboxylphenyl)phosphine), featuring a κ2-connected di(phosphine) ligand, generated hyperpolarized styrene achieving an over-2400-fold signal enhancement and a polarization level of 20% for 1H in methanol-d4 solution. The TPP-MOL-Rh-dppb effectively inherited the high efficiency and pairwise addition of its homogenous catalyst while maintaining the heterogeneity of MOLs. This work demonstrates the potential of 2D phosphine-functionalized MOLs as heterogeneous solid support for HET-PHIP.
Topological mechanical states in geometry-driven hyperuniform materials
Authors: Hong Sungyeon , Nerse Can , Oberst Sebastian , Saadatfar Mohammad
Published: November 2024

Disordered hyperuniform materials are increasingly drawing attention due to their unique physical properties, associated with global isotropy and locally broken orientational symmetry, that set them apart from traditional crystalline materials. Using a dynamic space-partitioning process, we generate disordered hyperuniform cellular structures where distinct patterns of pentagonal and heptagonal topological defects emerge within hexagonal domains. The microscopic defect dynamics are guided by local topological transitions, commonly observed in viscoelastic systems. This leads to a reduction in the system’s structural entropy as hyperuniformity is attained, marked by the rise and fall of certain locally favored motifs. Further, we introduce an elastic hyperuniform material that exhibits evolving topological mechanical states in the continuum. Through vibration experiments and numerical analysis, we show energy localization around these defects, which is tied to the topological band gaps inherent to our geometry-driven material. We suggest that this robust dynamic mechanism influences a broad spectrum of disordered systems, from synthetic materials to biological structures guided by stigmergic interactions.
Variation in evidence use across policy sectors: the case of Brazil
Authors: Saguin Kidjie , Guedes-Neto João V , Palotti Pedro Lucas Moura , Koga Natália Massaco , Carneiro Flavio Lyrio
Published: November 2024

Evidence use across policy sectors is widely believed to vary as each sector espouses a specific and dominant pattern in how it sources evidence. This view privileges the idea that a “culture of evidence” serves as a norm that guides behavior in the entire sector. In this article, we seek to nuance the policy sectoral approach to understanding evidence use by analyzing the results of a large-N survey of federal employees in Brazil (n = 2,177). Our findings show a diverse set of cultures of evidence with a few sectors like Science and Technology demonstrating a strong likelihood for using scientific evidence with most sectors showing a mixed pattern of sourcing evidence. However, a majority of the surveyed civil servants show an “indistinct” pattern of evidence use who are likely to not use any sources of evidence.
Supervisory cooperation and regulatory arbitrage
Authors: Beck Thorsten , Silva-Buston Consuelo , Wagner Wolf
Published: November 2024

While bank supervisors frequently cooperate across countries, novel data on 268 cooperation agreements reveal that such cooperation falls short of covering the global operations of large banking groups. We show that this causes material regulatory arbitrage: banking groups allocate lending activities and risk into third-country subsidiaries when cooperation agreements cover their operations in other countries. The average distortion in a country’s foreign lending caused by regulatory arbitrage is 21 percent, with the effect being magnified in the presence of a weak supervisory framework. Taken together, our results indicate that incompleteness in cooperation substantially diminishes its global effectiveness.
Environmental dependence of geometrical efficiency for the scintillation cell in radon and thoron measurement
Authors: Iwaoka Kazuki , Palad Lorna Jean H , Feliciano Chitho P , Tamakuma Yuki , Hosoda Masahiro , Tokonami Shinji , Kanda Reiko , Moritake Takashi
Published: November 2024

222Rn is recognized as a matter of international concern for human health risk. Because 220Rn as well as 222Rn coexist in the natural environment, thoron sometimes influences the experiment for radon measurement. It is important to measure radon and thoron separately to evaluate the risk of the exposure to 222Rn. As a discriminative measurement method for 222Rn and 220Rn, a simple technique with a single scintillation cell is well known. However, in recent years, the influence of atmospheric environment on the geometrical efficiency of the scintillation cell has not yet been investigated. In this study, environmental dependence of geometrical efficiency for the scintillation cell in 222Rn and 220Rn measurement was investigated using the Lucas type scintillation cell and Monte Carlo particle simulation. It was found that the influence of temperature and pressure on the geometrical efficiencies were larger than that of relative humidity.
The effects of antioxidant administration in the early stages of radiation-induced tumorigenesis
Authors: Yamauchi Kazumi , Tsutsumi Yuki , Kobayashi Toshiyuki , Komura Jun-ichiro
Published: November 2024

ApcMin/+ mouse was a model mouse for human familial adenomatous polyposis, and irradiation at an early age increases tumors in the small and large intestine. To study the effects of antioxidant administration on tumor incidence after continuous whole-body exposure to gamma rays, ApcMin/+ mice were exposed to a medium-dose-rate, 200 mGy/d, from postnatal Day 0 to 21 of age or a high-dose-rate of 0.65 Gy/min (total dose 4.2 Gy) on postnatal Day 7. The dams and pups were supplied with the N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in drinking water (7 g/L), from gestation Day 15 until weaning (21 days-old). A significant increase in the number of intestinal tumors were observed in ApcMin/+ mice irradiated with high dose-rate gamma rays as compared with the non-irradiated controls, but there was no significant difference in tumor counts between the non-irradiated controls and the medium-dose rate irradiation groups. NAC administration did not have any significant effect at least at this dose. These results suggest that the supplementation of anti-oxidant at the early stage of tumorigenesis does not suppress the formation of irradiation-induced small intestinal tumors.
Assessment of photon and proton-induced activation in particles accelerators
Authors: Nourreddine Abdel-Mjid , Collin Jonathan , Arbor Nicolas , Begin François , Barbagallo Massimo , Carminati Federico , Galli Carminati Giuliana , Horodynski Jean-Michel
Published: November 2024

Nuclear activation affects all operating, future, or dismantled particle accelerators used in various fields, from medical applications to industrial applications. This work is concerned with the study of the radioactivity induced in various materials (Sc, Cu, Tb, Ta, W, Au) irradiated by hard Bremsstrahlung photons from an electron beam and by secondary neutrons induced by a proton beam. In both cases, the primary beam features an 18 MeV kinetic energy. We have performed Monte Carlo simulations with MCNP, GEANT4, FLUKA, and PHITS, coupled with the analytical codes CINDER’90 or FISPACT-II, to estimate the threshold reaction rates and the induced radioactivity in the samples. We compared the simulations with experimental activation measurements performed by high-resolution gamma spectrometry at a decommissioned medical LINAC and around the CYRCé cyclotron. We also used CR-39 solid-state nuclear track detectors to characterize the thermal and fast neutron components of the secondary fields.
ESR measurement of carbonated hydroxyapatite for dosemeter
Authors: Seito Hajime , Yokozuka Eri , Oka Toshitaka , Kitatsuji Yoshihiro , Nagasawa Naotsugu
Published: November 2024

We have examined a dosimetry characteristic of carbonate hydroxyapatite (CO3HAp), which is a dental bone graft material. The purpose of this work is to investigate the reproducibility and stability of radiation-induced radicals on CO3HAp samples and assess the feasibility of using these materials as dosemeters. CO3HAp samples were exposed to gamma rays with dose range from 10 to 10 000 Gy. The electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra for irradiated samples were measured. Variation of peak-to-peak amplitude of the ESR signal intensity as a function of absorbed dose for CO3HAp was compared with that for alanine dosemeters, suggesting that the CO3HAp sample has a good linear dose response in the range from 10 to 10 000 Gy as well as does the alanine dosemeters.
Comparison of codes for calculation of projocted radiation-induced cancer risks
Authors: Kujiraoka Ikuo , Noguchi Yoshihiro , Shimada Kazumasa , Hirouchi Jun , Takahara Shogo
Published: November 2024

The lifetime attributable risk (LAR) of cancer caused by radiation exposure is crucial when deciding on radiological protection measures or protective actions for nuclear emergency preparedness and response. Although a model for estimating LAR among the Japanese population has been developed based on epidemiological data from A-bomb survivors, a flexible projection code implementing this model must be developed. This study investigated existing codes to contribute to the development of a projection code. Based on these investigations, we compared their LAR calculation results and explored the causes of their differences.
A diagnostic study on the application of segmental somatosensory evoked potential examination to acquired premature ejaculation
Authors: Zhao Yin , Chen Minhui , Li Jiacheng , Li Zheyang , Xu Zilei , Liao Zedong , Xu Keli , Huang Xiaojun
Published: November 2024

Background

Premature ejaculation (PE), affecting approximate 5%, has an unclear pathogenesis, limited treatment efficacy, and a lack of effective diagnostic methods.

Aim

This prospective diagnostic study aimed to compare segmental dorsal penile nerve somatosensory evoked potentials (DNSEP) differences among patients with acquired premature ejaculation (APE), primary premature ejaculation (PPE), and healthy controls.

Method

This prospective diagnostic study examined patients suffering from PE who visited the outpatient clinic of the Department of Urology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine from January 1, 2022 to February 28, 2023. According to the definition of PE by the ISSM, 16 cases comprised the healthy control group, 31 in the APE group, and 28 in the PPE group. Each group was examined based on the segmental DNSEP with electrodes recording at multiple locations (the selected location was at the Cz and the C7). The latency time of the evoked potential obtained at Cz was P40, and that obtained at C7 was P30. The P30/P40 ratios of P40, P30, and DNSEP wave amplitudes at C7 and Cz were compared among the 3 groups of patients.

Result

No group differences were found in P40 latency at Cz. However, PPE showed higher DNSEP amplitude at Cz, while APE showed lower amplitudes compared with controls. Both APE and PPE had significantly shorter P30 latency at C7 than controls. SEP amplitude at C7 was similar in APE and PPE but lower than in controls. The P30/P40 ratio was lower in APE compared with PPE and controls.

Clinical implications

Segmental SEP may offer more assistance in localizing neurological lesions, potentially guiding clinical treatment.

Strengths and limitations

In this study, the innovative use of the P30/P40 ratio was proposed, maintaining consistency in emotional states and measurement conditions for the same patient. However, limitations include a restricted number of patient cases and challenges in obtaining a diverse control group, potentially introducing bias. In addition, not considering subclinical premature ejaculation and the comorbidity of PE + ED (LCEE) in patient stratification is another limitation of this study. Results suggest a correlation between secondary PE and underlying conditions, such as obesity and lumbar spine injuries. The study validates multi-site somatosensory-evoked potential examination for locating neural lesions but acknowledges the need for future invasive needle electrode AEP testing to analyze neuropathological changes more comprehensively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, segmental DNSEP examination aids in localizing neuropathy in APE patients, and the P30/P40 ratio proves more accurate in diagnosing APE than P40 alone.
Nine in one: integrative taxonomic evidence of hidden species diversity in the widespread Zambezi grunter, Parauchenoglanis ngamensis (Siluriformes: Auchenoglanididae), from southern and south-central Africa
Authors: Sithole Yonela , Vreven Emmanuel J W M N , Bragança Pedro H N , Musschoot Tobias , Chakona Albert
Published: November 2024

The Zambezi grunter, Parauchenoglanis ngamensis, is currently distributed across four (sub)basins in southern and south-central Africa, namely the Okavango, upper Zambezi, Kwanza, and Kasai. The present study used a combination of molecular (barcoding), colour pattern, and other morphological data to explore the possible existence of hidden species diversity within this species. Based on the available samples, analyses of molecular data uncovered seven well-supported (.96–1.00 Bayesian posterior probabilities) candidate species, with 1.6%−8.5% genetic divergence between them. These, in addition to two more candidate species without genetic data, exhibited a combination of consistent colour pattern and other morphological differences that supported their distinction. The present study redescribes P. ngamensis, which is confined to the Okavango and upper Zambezi (sub)basins, and describes eight new species: two from the Kwanza Basin and six from the Kasai sub-basin. The fact that some of the species occur allopatrically, whereas others are sympatric and even syntopic indicates the complex palaeogeographical history of these basins. In addition, the high species diversity discovered in the Kasai sub-basin seems to be related to its highly peculiar hydrography. Accurate delimitation of species boundaries and mapping of their distribution is crucial for conservation assessments and guiding their protection.
“I Was Broken and Still Had to Stay Strong. I Cannot Be Weak”
Authors: Reimer Alinda , Hoffmann Jan , Mause Laura , Heinen Carolin , Dresbach Till , Scholten Nadine
Published: November 2024

Background:

The challenging transition to parenthood affects both mothers and fathers; yet, the strain intensifies with a premature birth in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), underscoring the importance of acknowledging and addressing potential differences in parental roles.

Purpose:

This paper aimed to investigate how parental role conflicts among mothers and fathers of preterm-born infants hospitalized in German NICUs manifest and investigated potential parental resources.

Methods:

Twenty-four participants, 17 mothers, and seven fathers of very low birth-weight infants were interviewed. A thematic content analysis was performed at a semantic level.

Results:

Fathers feel pressured to fulfill the role expectations, often leading to the suppression of paternal feelings and needs. For mothers, deviating from societal expectations regarding their expressive roles can be distressing, as they worry that such deviation might hinder their infants from having a successful start in life. Consulting with healthcare professionals shows to ease challenges for both parental roles.

Implications for Practice and Research:

Maternal and paternal challenges are often rooted in expectations placed on their societal roles. Highlighting these challenges can be essential for increasing awareness and effectively addressing them. Tailored nursing practices may have the potential to facilitate individuals’ navigation of uncertainties and fulfillment of caregiving roles.
The Significance of rS Change in the V2 Lead for Diagnosing Ventricular Tachycardia Deserves Attention: A Case Report
Authors: Li Jian , Li Shixing , Zhang Chuang , Shi Xiangmin
Published: November 2024

Occasionally, incessant ventricular tachycardia (VT) exhibits a narrow QRS complex pattern that could be misdiagnosed as supraventricular tachycardia. In this case, a 66-year-old woman was referred to the emergency department due to the worsen hemodynamic and incessant VT manifesting as a narrow QRS complex pattern that was initially misdiagnosed as supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), which was unresponsive to antiarrhythmic drugs. The electrocardiogram manifestation of VT was characterized by an rS configuration in lead V2 with Rs pattern in leads V1 and V3, and the R-wave amplitude of lead V1 and V3 was greater than that of lead V2, which was different from the typical electrocardiogram features of right bundle branch block. The patient was subsequently found to have suspected acute myocarditis when the cause of the disease was investigated. A combination of high-dose methylprednisolone, immunoglobulin and intra-aortic balloon pump was given immediately. Hemodynamics gradually stabilized, and ventricular tachycardia did not recur. The rS change in the V2 lead may be helpful to distinguish VT from supraventricular tachycardia.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy as a neoadjuvant treatment for muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma: A narrative review
Authors: Ding Sentai , Wu Chenrui , Cao Jishuang , Lyu Jiaju
Published: November 2024

Immunotherapy has become a standard treatment for patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma, and neoadjuvant immunotherapy is currently being extensively explored. This review highlights the initial findings and key clinical therapeutic insights on immune checkpoint inhibitors in the early treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer across diverse patient populations. Most available literature consists of clinical investigations involving small sample, single-arm phase II trials, with the primary endpoint being the pathologic complete response rate. Early results of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the neoadjuvant treatment of bladder cancer have demonstrated promising efficacy. However, these findings require confirmation in large phase III clinical trials, with particular emphasis on long-term survival benefits and identifying patients who respond to treatment.
Case reports of type 1 cystic biliary atresia—A rare variant of biliary atresia along with review of literature
Authors: Gupta Rahul , Vijay Priti , Gupta Atul
Published: November 2024

Cystic biliary atresia is a rare (5%–10%) variant of type 1 biliary atresia. The present report intends to share our experience with cystic variant of biliary atresia along with a review of pertinent literature. The first case was a 3-month-old infant with cholestatic jaundice with preoperative diagnosis of an infantile type of choledochal cyst. The second case was a 4-month-old twin infant with cholestatic jaundice and with preoperative differential diagnosis of either cystic biliary atresia or an infantile type of choledochal cyst (cyst located within the hepatic hilum). Cystic biliary atresia was confirmed intraoperatively in both the patients. In the first infant, Kasai portoenterostomy procedure was performed, whereas in the second patient, the hepaticoduodenostomy procedure was performed. At 6 months’ follow-up, there was no episode of cholangitis in the first and two episodes in the second case. In both patients, total bilirubin was trending down on follow-up. Cystic biliary atresia presents with cystic dilatation of proximal biliary tract. Type 1 cystic biliary atresia may masquerade as infantile variant of choledochal cyst. The Kasai portoenterostomy procedure is a standard palliative surgical procedure for patients with biliary atresia to restore bile drainage. A high index of suspicion with early operative intervention is recommended to palliate cholestasis in the infant with cystic variant of biliary atresia.
HNF4α-CDKL3 axis restricts MASLD progression by targeting FoxO1 via non-canonical phosphorylation
Authors: Pang Zhongqiu , Zhang Hui , Zheng Shaoqin , Yang Xueling , Liu Chang , Han Qing , Chen Yi , Li Zexu , Zhang Xi , Cao Liu , Wang Qiang , Cao Yanli , Sun Xun , Zhao Pu , Li Xuexin , Zheng Qianqian , Sheng Ren
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims:

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a worldwide disease with a broad spectrum of symptoms. Though being mild at early stages, further development of MASLD causes steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancers and accompanied diabetes. Discovery of the critical regulators in MASLD progression hold great values in both basic and translational medicine.

Approach and Results:

Herein, we identified Cyclin-dependent kinase like 3 (CDKL3) as a primary guardian against MASLD progression. Mice with liver-specific Cdkl3 ablation developed severe MASLD-related hepatic inflammation, fibrosis and diabetes. Mechanism-wise, CDKL3 directly phosphorylates FoxO1 on an unconventional site for the ubiquitination-dependent degradation of FoxO1, thereby remarkably alleviating glycogen and lipid accumulation and essentially preventing the onset of higher MASLD stages. Moreover, hepatic CDKL3 is a direct target gene of HNF4α. HNF4α is inhibited during MASLD, which led to diminished CDKL3 expression. The CDKL3-mediated crosstalk of HNF4α and FoxO1 hence forms a feedback loop in MASLD progression.

Conclusions:

We unearthed an alternative but critical regulatory path of FoxO1 by HNF4α-CDKL3 axis. CDKL3 serves as a guardian against MASLD and also may function as a prognosis indicator of FoxO1 inhibitor in MASLD treatment.
Differentiation Between Pellucid-Like Keratoconus and Pellucid Marginal Degeneration Using Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Lenk Janine , Herber Robert , Pillunat Lutz E. , Spörl Eberhard , Raiskup Frederik
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

The distinction between pellucid-like keratoconus (PLK) and pellucid marginal corneal degeneration (PMD) based on tomographic examinations is difficult. In this study, corneal tomographic and biomechanical parameters, after classifying PMD and PLK using swept-source optical coherence tomography, were analyzed.

Methods:

Diagnoses of PLK and PMD were made using SS-OCT imaging, two groups were formed: PLK (n = 30) and PMD (n = 10). Corneal thickness was measured at the 5, 6, and 7 o'clock positions centrally, superiorly, and inferiorly with SS-OCT. Tomographic, densitometric, and biomechanical parameters were investigated using Scheimpflug-based methods.

Results:

Patients with PMD were significantly older than patients with PLK (55.2 [95% CI, 47.0–63.3] vs. 42.0 years [95% CI, 38.2–46.0]; P = 0.002). The median Kmax value did not differ significantly between PMD and PLK (54.7 D [95% CI, 48.0–62.8] vs. 52.0 D [95% CI, 49.4–53.9]; P = 0.5). Astigmatism was significantly higher in the PMD group than in the PLK group (median 9.0 D [6.1–11.5] D vs. 3.7 [2.4–4.6] D; P < 0.001). The biomechanical parameters did not differ between PMD and PLK (DA Ratio max 2 mm, integrated radius, stiffness parameter at first applanation, and Corvis Biomechanical Index (CBI); each P > 0.05). There were significant differences in the corneal thickness ratio inferior to the center between the two groups (−23.7% [−31.5 to (−15.9)] versus 2.4% [−1.2 to 5.9], P < 0.001) and at 6 o'clock (−29% [−38.7 to −19.29] versus 0.18% [−4.62 to 5, P < 0.001) and 7 o'clock (−24.5% [−34.2 to −14.7] versus −2.0% [−6.65 to 2.73], P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Neither Scheimpflug-based tomographic nor biomechanical parameters can differentiate between PLK and PMD. SS-OCT can help with this differentiation because of the typical thinning of corneal pachymetry near the limbus.
Network Pharmacology Prediction and Molecular Docking-based Strategy to Explore the Potential Mechanism of Guiyi Tonglong Prescription in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Wang Honglei , Gao Qinghe , Liu Shengjing , Guo Boda
Published: November 2024

Background:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition affecting the urinary tract. This study aimed at exploring the potential of Guiyi Tonglong (GYTL) prescription for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia using network pharmacology and molecular docking technology.

Methods:

The main active ingredients in GYTL prescription were identified from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology and the Integrative Pharmacology-based Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCMIP) databases based on drug similarity of ≥ 30% and oral bioavailability of ≥ 0.18. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks, gene ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were used to study the interactions and pathway enrichment and establish ingredient-target-pathway networks. The structure of the active ingredient was docked to that of the potential protein target using the AutoDock molecular docking software.

Results:

A total of 86 active ingredients and 130 potential targets were screened from GYTL prescription, and a PPI network was constructed to identify the five most important core targets, namely SRC, TP53, STAT3, AKT1, and PIK3CA. Enrichment analysis revealed that GYTL prescription may play a role in the treatment of BPH through multiple signaling pathways, such as PI3K-Akt, EGFR, AGE-RAGE, and HIF-1. Molecular docking indicated a potential interaction between the active ingredients and targets.

Conclusion:

These results provide further information regarding the active ingredients and molecular mechanisms of GYTL prescription in treating BPH.
Microbiological profile and antibiotic susceptibility profile of urine cultures in patients with spinal cord injury—retrospective study
Authors: Ferreira Nuno J. S. , Branco Raquel A. , Pimentel Sabrina C. , Paço Maria Ana S. , Coelho Isabel M. S. R. , Serpa Lúcia E. P. R.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and urinary tract colonizations (UTCs) are common in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). The aim of this study was to characterize the microbiological profile of urine cultures in patients with SCI and to determine the antibiotic susceptibility profile of most common microorganisms, to track antibiotic resistance and facilitate empiric antibiotic selection.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study was conducted on 235 urine culture results of 29 patients with SCI followed at a Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine outpatient consultation between January 2016 and April 2024. Data regarding sociodemographics, cause of SCI, American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale classification, voiding method, microbiological urine culture profile, and antimicrobial resistance were collected and statistically analyzed. UTIs (defined as bacteriuria, leukocyturia, positive urine culture, and new onset of signs and/or symptoms) were differentiated from UTCs.

Results:

Patients were mostly men (86%), with a mean age of 52.1 years. UTIs occurred in 134 specimens (57%) and UTCs in 101 (43%). In both UTIs and UTCs, microbiological agents were mostly bacteria; Escherichia coli was the commonest overall (39%) and more frequent in indwelling catheterization (in UTIs) and intermittent self-catheterization (in UTCs); more frequently identified microorganisms were E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, and Enterococcus faecalis. For these 5 more frequent bacteria, antibiotic susceptibility profiles were determined. High resistance to fluoroquinolones, low resistance to cephalosporins, and very low resistance to nitrofurantoin were found. Specific multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) accounted for 11.2%, mostly identified in patients with indwelling catheters. Antibiotic prescriptions in UTIs were according to antibiograms.

Conclusions:

In UTIs and UTCs, E. coli was the most common microorganism; microorganisms were distinct on different types of voiding methods. Antibiotic susceptibility profiles were determined for the more frequent bacteria. Very low resistance to nitrofurantoin of E. coli and E. faecalis, low resistance to cephalosporins, and high resistance to fluoroquinolones were found. The data now reported can, in selected cases, facilitate empiric antibiotic selection.
Wellbeing after finalisation of a workers’ compensation claim: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Weir James , Fary Robyn , Mitchell Tim , Johnston Venerina , Wyatt Mary , Guthrie Robert , Myers Bronwyn , Beales Darren
Published: November 2024

Objective

Injured workers can be disadvantaged after a workers’ compensation claims ends. This study investigated the association of a range of variables with wellbeing in injured workers who had finalised a workers’ compensation claim >3 months prior.

Methods

On-line, cross-sectional survey (n = 129, 55.81% female). Wellbeing was measured using the Psychological Wellbeing 18-item (PWB) and the Personal Wellbeing Score (PWS).

Results

Multivariable quantile regression analysis controlling for education level demonstrated associations between the PWB and levels of psychological distress -1.53 (95% CI -2.11 to -0.94), p < 0.001 and resilience 6.51 (95% CI 2.65 to 10.37), p = 0.001, and between the PWS and levels of psychological distress -0.04 (95% CI -0.51 to -0.29), p < 0.001 and resilience 1.2 (95% CI 0.47 to 1.93), p = 0.001.

Conclusions

Contemporaneous variables of resilience and psychological distress were stronger correlates with wellbeing than historic claim-related variables.
Effectiveness and safety of negative pressure wound therapy in patients with deep sternal wound infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Yen-Ting , Lin Shih-Han , Peng Chi , Huang Ren-Wen , Lin Cheng-Hung , Hsu Chung-Chen , Chen Shih-Heng , Lin Yu-Te , Lee Che-Hsiung
Published: November 2024

Background:

Deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) is a severe and life-threatening complication following cardiovascular surgery. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has emerged as a promising therapeutic bridging option for DSWI. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the authors aimed to evaluate the impact of NPWT on clinical outcomes in patients with DSWI.

Material and Methods:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted according to the PRISMA guideline in electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers, and risk of bias was assessed by ROBINS-I tool. The primary outcomes assessed were mortality rate and reinfection rate. The secondary outcomes assessed were length of hospital stay and ICU stay.

Results:

In this systematic review identified a total of 36 studies, comprising 3681 patients with DSWI who received treatment. The meta-analysis revealed that NPWT was associated with a significant reduction in mortality rate (RR 0.46, 95% CI: 0.35–0.61, P<0.000001) and reinfection rate (RR 0.43, 95% CI: 0.25–0.74, P=0.002) compared to conventional wound management. Furthermore, pooling of these studies showed significant difference between the NPWT and conventional treatment groups in length of hospital stay (mean difference: −4.49, 95% CI: −8.14 to −0.83; P=0.02) and length of ICU stay (mean difference: −1.11, 95% CI: −2.18 to −0.04; P=0.04).

Conclusion:

This systematic review and meta-analysis provide evidence that NPWT is superior to conventional treatment for patients with DSWI following cardiovascular surgery.
Prevalence of extended-spectrum and metallo β-lactamase production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolate
Authors: Ghazaei Ciamak
Published: November 2024

Due to intrinsically developed resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and metallo β-lactamase (MBL)-producing genes, such P. aeruginosa isolates have become a major threat to public health. Therefore, in this study, the synthesis of MBL and the prevalence of ESBL were observed phenotypically in P. aeruginosa using the DDST test. Seventy-six out of 120 strains of P. aeruginosa were obtained from animal milk and human sputum, blood, respiratory tract, and abscess. A total of 76 isolates (51.31%) synthesized ESBLs, 48.6% produced MBL, and 68.6% produced AmpC. The genotypic prevalence of MBL and ESBL for bla TEM-1 and bla IMP-1 was 20.12 and 17.8%, respectively. The results demonstrated a considerable prevalence of MBL and ESBL among P. aeruginosa isolates, with different enzyme variants detected in each sample. The data was significant for the P values less than 0.05.
Monkeypox: a concise review
Authors: Memariani Mojtaba , Memariani Hamed , Ghasemian Abdolmajid
Published: November 2024

Human monkeypox disease (mpox) has resurfaced recently as a public health emergency of international concern in the wake of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, spreading in endemic and nonendemic regions across the globe. The purpose of this concise review is to provide an overview of the background, cause, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mpox. The monkeypox virus (MPXV) is an enveloped double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) virus that belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus of the Poxviridae family. In the past, mpox has been primarily a zoonotic disease that affected rural, forested areas in some African countries. There is no doubt that mpox is changing in many ways since the 2022 global outbreak, particularly human-to-human transmission of the disease through sexual contact and new clinical presentations. In spite of the fact that severity and prevalence of the disease vary by age and sex, some common symptoms are present in all patients. Many patients experience fever, muscle pain and headache, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rashes. A clinical sign can be followed by laboratory diagnostic tests such as conventional PCR or real-time PCR. Although there is no specific treatment for mpox, it can be effectively managed with the help of antivirals, smallpox vaccine, and vaccinia immune globulin.
Impacts, Adaptations, and Preparedness Among SNAP-Ed Implementers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multistate Study
Authors: Draper Carrie L. , Younginer Nicholas , Rodriguez Kira , Bruno Pamela , Balestracci Kate , Samin Sharraf
Published: November 2024

Objective:

The study examines: 1) impacts of COVID-19 on the work of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Education (SNAP-Ed) implementers, 2) facilitators and barriers experienced in making adaptations, and 3) factors that would have helped with preparedness to adapt.

Design, Setting, and Participants:

A purposive sample of 181 SNAP-Ed program implementers from across five states completed a survey or interview based on the study aims. Quantitative data was summarized with descriptive statistics and qualitative data was analyzed thematically.

Results:

Direct education activities were found to be most impacted during COVID-19 while working to change policies, systems, and environments and indirect education were less impacted. Both positive and negative impacts surfaced. Respondents were most likely to say they were moderately or slightly prepared to make adaptations. Elements of internal organizations, technology, and partners both helped and hindered adapting. Pre-established virtual capacity, formal preparation and planning protocols and procedures, and better and more frequent communication with partners and program leadership would have helped with preparedness.

Conclusion:

SNAP-Ed needs assessment and implementation processes should integrate and expand upon the lessons learned in the study to enhance future emergency preparedness among program implementers. Program policy should be updated to allow for implementation flexibility during future emergencies.