bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Comparative Productivity of the Birthday Narrative in 6- to 11-year-Old Maltreated Children
Authors: Henderson Hayden M. , Wylie Breanne E. , Lyon Thomas D.
Published: July 2024

We asked 111 6- to 11-year-old maltreated children to tell “everything that happened” on their last birthday, the last time they did something they liked to do outside, and yesterday. All children produced details in response to the like to do and yesterday narratives, compared to 98% of children in response to the birthday narrative. Questions about yesterday were more likely to elicit productive responses (93%) than questions about the child’s birthday (90%) or things they liked to do (88%). Older children produced the most details in response to questions about yesterday, and older children’s birthday narratives were more productive than those about favorite activities. Narratives about children’s birthday and yesterday produced comparable percentages of negative details (15%), whereas 32% of children mentioned something negative when discussing a favorite activity. The results suggest that although children find yesterday easier to recall than their last birthday, the birthday narrative is a productive tool for encouraging children to practice recalling more remote events, preparing them for abuse disclosures.
A tourist in the economics of tourism: Reflections on nonparametric estimation of stochastic frontier models
Authors: Parmeter Christopher F
Published: July 2024

The past two decades has seen tourism research embrace frontier methods to assess efficiency in tourism. Generically these methods are split into two different camps, deterministic and stochastic frontier models. Deterministic models are by their nature nonparametric and do not require distributional assumptions. Stochastic models allow for noise to enter the frontier, typically at the expense of a variety of potentially unverifiable assumptions. The primary objective of this short survey is to alert readers to the many advances that have been made to eliminate or mitigate various parametric assumptions in the stochastic frontier model.
(In)forming the new building envelope: A pedagogical study in generative design with precedents and multimodal large language models
Authors: Veloso Pedro
Published: July 2024

This pedagogical study delves into integrating established and emerging computational methods into architectural education, with a specific focus on building envelope design within a B.Arch. course. Students employ parametric modeling (PM), design optimization (DO), and multimodal large language models (MLLMs) to analyze and reinterpret building envelope precedents. Parametric design and optimization are utilized to explore envelope variations based on parametric logic and performance evaluation. In the case of MLLMs, students leverage visual patterns from precedents as a form-giving construct for new 3D envelope proposals. While students adeptly integrate MLLMs into their design process, generating successful 3D models, challenges arise in control and translation across representations, leading to unclear scale and tectonics in some design proposals. Survey results reveal that students perceive MLLMs as a valuable, uncomplicated method for rapid design ideation and refinement, but challenges persist in addressing real architectural constraints. Parametric modeling is viewed as a tool for structuring design and DO is seen as a later stage for refining designs based on metrics. The study underscores the importance of evolving user interfaces for MLLMs in specific design tasks, addressing challenges in precision and design scale through prompts and guiding images. It also discusses the potential to combine MLLMs with various generative methods and modeling software during transitions between design media to support future initiatives integrating computational methods into the design process.
Management of renal artery aneurysms: A retrospective study
Authors: Vi Lisa , Kim Minji Jinny , Eisenberg Naomi , Tan Kong T , Roche-Nagle Graham
Published: July 2024

Background

Although renal artery aneurysms (RAAs) are rare and often asymptomatic with slow growth, their natural progression and optimal management are not well understood. Treatment recommendations for RAAs do exist; however, they are supported by limited data.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to explore the management of patients diagnosed with an RAA at our institution from January 1st, 2013, to December 31st, 2020. Patients were identified through a search of our radiological database, followed by a comprehensive chart review for further assessment. Data collection encompassed patient and aneurysm characteristics, the rationale for initial imaging, treatment, surveillance, and all-cause mortality.

Results

One hundred eighty-five patients were diagnosed with or treated for RAAs at our center during this timeframe, with most aneurysms having been discovered incidentally. Average aneurysm size was 1.40 cm (±0.05). Of those treated, the mean size was 2.38 cm (±0.24). Among aneurysms larger than 3 cm in size, comprising 3.24% of the total cases, 83.3% underwent treatment procedures. Only 20% of women of childbearing age received treatment for their aneurysms. There was one instance of aneurysm rupture, with no associated mortality or significant morbidity.

Conclusions

Our institution’s management of RAAs over the period of the study generally aligned with guidelines. One potential area of improvement is more proactive intervention for women of childbearing age.
The non-punishment of human trafficking victims in Europe: A comparative perspective
Authors: Rodriguez-Lopez Silvia
Published: July 2024

Human trafficking victims can be subjected, not only to sexual and labour exploitation, but also to the exploitation of criminal activities such as theft or drug production. Besides, due to the nature of trafficking, victims may also face sanctions for their irregular migration status or for the offences committed in an attempt to free themselves. In view of this phenomenon, the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, as well as Directive 2011/36/EU, compel member States to take the necessary measures to ensure the non-punishment of trafficked people for their involvement in criminal activities that they have been forced to commit as a consequence of trafficking. Since the approval of these provisions, many countries have adopted diverse policies to fulfil this international duty and prevent human trafficking victims from receiving sanctions. Using a comparative perspective, this paper aims to illustrate and critically evaluate the main challenges regarding the implementation of this clause in Europe. The results underline the persistent need to improve policies focussed on the protection of victims, putting aside punitive logics.
Friendship-Related Stress and Alcohol Use Among Post-college Emerging Adults
Authors: Bragard Elise , Armeli Stephen , Tennen Howard
Published: July 2024

Friendship-related stress is an understudied factor that may explain variation in coping-motivated and socially-motivated drinking among emerging adults. This study examined chronic and episodic friendship stress as predictors of drinking levels and motivations among emerging adults transitioning to post-college life. College drinkers reported drinking motives and alcohol consumption daily for 30 days using an Internet-based diary in college and five years later ( N = 897, 54.2% women, Mage = 24.6 at follow-up, 86.0% White). Post-college, participants completed by phone the UCLA-Life Stress Interview assessing chronic and episodic friendship/social life stress. Chronic friendship/social life stress was positively correlated with mean levels of post-college drinking-to-cope motivation and was negatively related to post-college heavy drinking and social drinking motivation. Emerging adults experiencing friendship stress are more likely to use alcohol as a coping mechanism, elevating their risk for alcohol-related problems. Those with low friendship stress may require public health interventions around the risks of heavy drinking.
Microbiome in radiotherapy: an emerging approach to enhance treatment efficacy and reduce tissue injury
Authors: Lu Lina , Li Fengxiao , Gao Yuanyuan , Kang Shuhe , Li Jia , Guo Jinwang
Published: July 2024

Radiotherapy is a widely used cancer treatment that utilizes powerful radiation to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. While radiation can be beneficial, it can also harm the healthy tissues surrounding the tumor. Recent research indicates that the microbiota, the collection of microorganisms in our body, may play a role in influencing the effectiveness and side effects of radiation therapy. Studies have shown that specific species of bacteria living in the stomach can influence the immune system’s response to radiation, potentially increasing the effectiveness of treatment. Additionally, the microbiota may contribute to adverse effects like radiation-induced diarrhea. A potential strategy to enhance radiotherapy outcomes and capitalize on the microbiome involves using probiotics. Probiotics are living microorganisms that offer health benefits when consumed in sufficient quantities. Several studies have indicated that probiotics have the potential to alter the composition of the gut microbiota, resulting in an enhanced immune response to radiation therapy and consequently improving the efficacy of the treatment. It is important to note that radiation can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria, resulting in increased intestinal permeability and inflammatory conditions. These disruptions can lead to adverse effects such as diarrhea and damage to the intestinal lining. The emerging field of radiotherapy microbiome research offers a promising avenue for optimizing cancer treatment outcomes. This paper aims to provide an overview of the human microbiome and its role in augmenting radiation effectiveness while minimizing damage.
Myeloid-derived growth factor in diseases: structure, function and mechanisms
Authors: Chen Peng , Huang Xiaohui , Li Weiwen , Wen Weixing , Cao Yue , Li Jiahuan , Huang Yuli , Hu Yunzhao
Published: July 2024

Myeloid-derived growth factor (MYDGF) is a novel secreted protein with potent antiapoptotic and tissue-repairing properties that is present in nearly 140 human tissues and cell lines, with the highest abundance in the oral epithelium and skin. Initially, MYDGF was found in bone marrow-derived monocytes and macrophages for cardioprotection and repair after myocardial infarction. Subsequent studies have shown that MYDGF plays an important role in other cardiovascular diseases (e.g., atherosclerosis and heart failure), metabolic disorders, renal disease, autoimmune/inflammatory disorders, and cancers. Although the underlying mechanisms have not been fully explored, the role of MYDGF in health and disease may involve cell apoptosis and proliferation, tissue repair and regeneration, anti-inflammation, and glycolipid metabolism regulation. In this review, we summarize the current progress in understanding the role of MYDGF in health and disease, focusing on its structure, function and mechanisms. The graphical abstract shows the current role of MYDGF in different organs and diseases (Fig. 1).
Screening for genetic variability in photosynthetic regulation provides insights into salt performance traits in forage sorghum under salt stress
Authors: Amombo Erick , Gbibar Maryam , Ashilenje Dennis S. , Hirich Abdelaziz , Kouisni Lamfeddal , Oukarroum Abdallah , Ghoulam Cherki , El Gharous Mohamed , Nilahyane Abdelaziz
Published: July 2024

Background

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a promising opportunity crop for arid regions of Africa due to its high tolerance to drought and heat stresses. Screening for genetic variability in photosynthetic regulation under salt stress can help to identify target trait combinations essential for sorghum genetic improvement. The primary objective of this study was to identify reliable indicators of photosynthetic performance under salt stress for forage yield within a panel of 18 sorghum varieties from stage 1 (leaf 3) to stage 7 (late flowering to early silage maturity). We dissected the genetic diversity and variability in five stress-sensitive photosynthetic parameters: nonphotochemical chlorophyll fluorescence quenching (NPQ), the electron transport rate (ETR), the maximum potential quantum efficiency of photosystem II (FV/FM), the CO2 assimilation rate (A), and the photosynthetic performance based on absorption (PIABS). Further, we investigated potential genes for target phenotypes using a combined approach of bioinformatics, transcriptional analysis, and homologous overexpression.

Results

The panel revealed polymorphism, two admixed subpopulations, and significant molecular variability between and within population. During the investigated development stages, the PIABS varied dramatically and consistently amongst varieties. Under higher saline conditions, PIABS also showed a significant positive connection with A and dry matter gain. Because PIABS is a measure of plants’ overall photosynthetic performance, it was applied to predict the salinity performance index (SPI). The SPI correlated positively with dry matter gain, demonstrating that PIABS could be used as a reliable salt stress performance marker for forage sorghum. Eight rubisco large subunit genes were identified in-silico and validated using qPCR with variable expression across the varieties under saline conditions. Overexpression of Rubisco Large Subunit 8 increased PIABS, altered the OJIP, and growth with an insignificant effect on A.

Conclusions

These findings provide insights into strategies for enhancing the photosynthetic performance of sorghum under saline conditions for improved photosynthetic performance and potential dry matter yield. The integration of molecular approaches, guided by the identified genetic variability, holds promise for genetically breeding sorghum tailored to thrive in arid and saline environments, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.
Social relationships and their association with the functional capacity of older Chilean adults: longitudinal evidence
Authors: de Albuquerque Araújo Letícia , Icaza Gloria , Márquez Carlos , Albala Cecilia
Published: July 2024

Background

Functional capacity is recognized as a central factor for health in old age and not all studies that seek to clarify the role of social relationships in functional capacity are conclusive. The subject has only been studied in a limited way in Latin America, a region that is aging prematurely, with evidence primarily from developed countries, which have experienced a more gradual aging of their population. This longitudinal study aimed to determine how aspects of social relationships impact the functionality of older Chileans.

Methodology

We conducted a cohort study of 2,265 people aged 60 years or older who lived in the community and resided in Greater Santiago, Chile. Five aspects of social relationships were considered at baseline (participation in groups, clubs, or organizations; number of people in the household; participation in recreational activities; perception of material support, help or advice, and marital status), from which a cluster analysis by conglomerate was performed and used as the exposure of interest. Functional limitation (FL) was the dependent variable, classified as a limitation in at least 1 basic activity of daily living or 1 instrumental activity or 2 advanced activities. The control variables considered were: sex, age, educational level, multimorbidity, depression and years of follow-up. Survival analyses using a Cox proportional hazard regression and multilevel logistic regressions (person level and follow-up wave level) were performed.

Results

The identified clusters were four: “without social participation and does not live alone”; “without a partner and without social participation”; “no perception of support and no social participation”; “with participation, partner and perception of support”. Social relationship clusters predicted FL incidence and FL reporting during follow-up. Being in the clusters "without social participation and does not live alone" and "without partner and without social participation" were risk factors for incident FL and report of FL during follow-up, compared to being in the reference cluster "with participation, partner and perception of support.

Conclusions

In summary, our study showed that participating in social organizations, not living alone and having a partner are protective factors for presenting and developing functional limitation in old age for community-living Chileans in an urban area.
Explainable lung cancer classification with ensemble transfer learning of VGG16, Resnet50 and InceptionV3 using grad-cam
Authors: Kumaran S Yogesh , Jeya J. Jospin , R Mahesh T , Khan Surbhi Bhatia , Alzahrani Saeed , Alojail Mohammed
Published: July 2024

Medical imaging stands as a critical component in diagnosing various diseases, where traditional methods often rely on manual interpretation and conventional machine learning techniques. These approaches, while effective, come with inherent limitations such as subjectivity in interpretation and constraints in handling complex image features. This research paper proposes an integrated deep learning approach utilizing pre-trained models—VGG16, ResNet50, and InceptionV3—combined within a unified framework to improve diagnostic accuracy in medical imaging. The method focuses on lung cancer detection using images resized and converted to a uniform format to optimize performance and ensure consistency across datasets. Our proposed model leverages the strengths of each pre-trained network, achieving a high degree of feature extraction and robustness by freezing the early convolutional layers and fine-tuning the deeper layers. Additionally, techniques like SMOTE and Gaussian Blur are applied to address class imbalance, enhancing model training on underrepresented classes. The model’s performance was validated on the IQ-OTH/NCCD lung cancer dataset, which was collected from the Iraq-Oncology Teaching Hospital/National Center for Cancer Diseases over a period of three months in fall 2019. The proposed model achieved an accuracy of 98.18%, with precision and recall rates notably high across all classes. This improvement highlights the potential of integrated deep learning systems in medical diagnostics, providing a more accurate, reliable, and efficient means of disease detection.
Hypercalcaemia in gastrointestinal stromal tumour and sarcoidosis: a case report
Authors: Selvananthan Babitha , Fischer Eddy , Lin Raymond
Published: July 2024

Background

Hypercalcaemia is a common manifestation of sarcoidosis but is sparingly described in gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs). We describe a case of acute kidney injury and hypercalcemia resulting from simultaneous diagnosis of GIST and sarcoidosis, the presentation of which has not yet been reported.

Case Presentation

A 61-year-old male presented with acute kidney injury and hypercalcemia, with elevated 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels. Investigations demonstrated a large gastric antral mass which was resected and proven to be GIST. Histopathology of incidentally found liver nodules revealed non-necrotising epithelioid granulomas consistent with concomitant sarcoidosis. The hypercalcemia was successfully treated with bisphosphonate therapy, resection of the GIST and a four month course of corticosteroids, which was truncated due to a mycobacterial infection.

Conclusions

Our case report is the first to describe hypercalcemia due to GIST and biopsy-proven sarcoidosis, thereby raising the possibility of a common pathophysiological pathway relating the two entities. We review the literature describing the mechanisms of hypercalcaemia in GIST and the association between GIST and sarcoidosis.
Evaluation of serum levels of sestrin 2 and betatrophin in type 2 diabetic patients with diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Emara Asmaa Mounir , El Bendary Amal Said , Ahmed Laila Mahmoud , Okda Hanaa Ibrahim
Published: July 2024

Background

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the most serious microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus (DM) and the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) worldwide. Since obesity and type 2 DM (T2DM) are considered as inflammatory conditions, thus reducing their accompanied systemic inflammation may lessen their complications. Sestrin 2 belongs to a group of stress induced proteins which are produced in response to oxidative stress, inflammation and DNA damage. Betatrophin; a hormone that stimulates the growth, proliferation and mass expansion of pancreatic beta-cells and improves glucose tolerance. The objective of the study was to evaluate levels of serum Sestrin 2 and betatrophin in patients with different stages of diabetic nephropathy (DN)) and compare results with healthy control.

Methods

This cross sectional study was carried out on 60 patients above 18 years old, recruited from Tanta University hospitals out patients clinics and 20 apparently healthy individuals of matched sex and age as a control group. Participants were divided into two groups: group I: 20 normal subjects as control group and group II: 60 patients with type 2 DM,. further subdivided in to three equal groups: group 1IIA(20 patients) with normo-albuminuria (ACR < 30 mg/g), group IIB (20 patients) with micro albuminuria (ACR = 30 to 300 mg/g) and group IIC (20 patients) with macro albuminuria (ACR > 300 mg/g). They were subjected to detailed history taking, careful clinical examination and laboratory investigations including blood urea, serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary albumin creatinine ratio, and specific laboratory tests for Sestrin 2 and Betatrophin by using ELISA technique.

Results

Serum Sestrin 2 significantly decreased, while serum betatrophin level significantly increased in macroalbuminuric group compared to control and other 2 diabetic groups (P value < 0.05). The cut off value of serum sestrin 2 was 0.98 ng/ml with sensitivity 99%, specificity 66% while the cut off value of serum betatrophin was > 98.25 ng/ml with sensitivity 98%, specificity 82%. Serum betatrophin positively correlated with age, fasting, 2 h postprandial, BMI, triglyceride, total cholesterol, serum creatinine, blood urea, UACR, and negatively correlated with eGFR and serum albumin. Serum Sestrin 2 positively correlated with serum albumin. BMI, serum urea, UACR and serum albumin. Serum betatrophin are found to be risk factors or predictors for diabetic nephropathy.

Conclusions

Patients with DN, particularly the macroalbuminuria group, had a significant increase in betatrophin levels and a significant decrease in serum Sestrin 2 level. The function of Sestrin 2 is compromised in DN, and restoring it can reverse a series of molecular alterations with subsequent improvement of the renal functions, albuminuria and structural damage.
Comparing the effectiveness of behavioral activation in group vs. self-help format for reducing depression, repetitive thoughts, and enhancing performance of patients with major depressive disorder: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Saberi Soleiman , Ahmadi Reza , Khakpoor Sahel , Pirzeh Reza , Hasani Mohsen , Moradveisi Latif , Saed Omid
Published: July 2024

Background

Behavioral activation has gained increasing attention as an effective treatment for depression. However, the effectiveness of Behavioral Activation Group Therapy (BAGT) in controlled conditions compared to its self-help programs requires more investigation. The present study aimed to compare their effectiveness on depressive symptoms, repetitive negative thinking (RNT), and performance in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

In this randomized clinical trial, 40 patients diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) were recruited based on a structured clinical interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5). Participants were allocated to BAGT (n = 20) and self-help behavioral activation (SBA; n = 20) groups. BAGT received ten weekly sessions (90 min), while the SBA group followed the same protocol as the self-help intervention. Participants were evaluated at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and the 2-month follow-up using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), repetitive thinking questionnaire (RTQ-31), and work and social adjustment scale (WSAS).

Results

The results of a Mixed ANOVA analysis revealed that participants who underwent BAGT showed significant improvement in depression, rumination, work, and social functioning post-treatment and at the 2-month follow-up. However, the SBA group did not show significant changes in any outcome. The study also found that, based on clinical significance, 68% of the BAGT participants were responsive to treatment, and 31% achieved a high final performance status at the 2-month follow-up.

Discussion

BAGT was more effective than SBA in MDD patients. Participants’ engagement with self-help treatment is discussed.

Trial registration

The present trial has been registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials Center (IRCT ID: IRCT20181128041782N1|| http://www.irct.ir/) (Registration Date: 04/03/2019).
Characterizing myths of sexual aggression in the young population in Spain
Authors: Sanz Barbero Belén , Vives-Cases Carmen , Vall-llosera Casanovas Laura , Serra Saurina Laura , Saurina Canals María Carme , Renart Vicens Gemma
Published: July 2024

Background

Myths of sexual aggression have a negative influence in aggressive behavior against women, in the institutional approaches to sexual violence and in how women cope with it. The objective of this study is to describe acceptance of myths of sexual aggression in young women and men residing in Spain.

Method

Cross-sectional study carried out online with 2,515 women (50.2%) and men (49.8%) ages 18–35 in Spain in 2020. Information on myths was collected using the Acceptance of Modern Myths About Sexual Aggression Scale (AMMSA). We described the myths most prevalent among women and men. The variables associated with myths were identified using multiple regression. The regression models were adjusted by sociodemographic and sexual orientation variables.

Results

The average AMMSA values were higher among men [mean: 3.11; standard deviation (sd):1.23] than among women (mean 2.49 sd:1.11). In both sexes, the myths with greater acceptance showed the presence of patriarchal gender roles in sexual contacts. Men were more likely than women to accept myths that question allegations and severity of violence. Having a higher level of educational studies (β -0.350 sd: 0.046) was associated with lower average AMMSA values. Being born in Latin America (β 0.047 sd: 0.063) was associated with higher average AMMSA values. Among heterosexual men, AMMSA values were greater than among gay and bisexual men. Among women, there was no difference in average AMMSA values based on sexual orientation.

Conclusions

Myths persist during youth that question and trivialize sexual violence against women. It is necessary to implement strategies that reduce these myths, particularly in heterosexual men, in those of foreign-born origin and among those with low levels of education.
Identification of risk factors for acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis based on baseline high-resolution computed tomography: a prospective observational study
Authors: Wang Zhaojun , Zhang Zhengping , Zhu Li , Hou Jia , Fu Hongyan , Yang Xiaojun , Wang Faxuan , Chen Juan
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate risk factors for acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (AE-IPF) based on baseline high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT).

Methods

This prospective observational study enrolled patients with IPF treated at the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University between January 2019 and January 2021. HRCT-derived quantitative parameters at baseline were analyzed.

Results

A total of 102 patients [92 (90.2%) males with a mean age of 67 years] with IPF were included, with a median follow-up of 32 (24-40.5) months. AE occurred in 30 (29.4%) IPF patients. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified Doppler transthoracic echocardiography suggestive of pulmonary hypertension (PH) (13.43; 95% CI: 4.18–41.09; P < 0.001), honeycombing (OR 1.08; 95% CI: 1.02–1.14; P = 0.013), and whole lung volume (OR 0.99; 95% CI: 0.99-1.00; P = 0.037) as independent risk factors for AE-IPF. The combination of PH, honeycombing, whole lung volume, and the percentage of predicted forced vital capacity (FVC% pred) showed a high area under the curve from receiver operating characteristic curves of 0.888, with a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 78%.

Conclusions

This study emphasizes that quantitative CT parameters (honeycombing, whole lung volume) may serve as risk factors for AE-IPF. The combination of honeycombing, whole lung volume, FVC% pred, and PH may aid in predicting AE-IPF.
Exosomes derived from mir-337-3p over-expressing tendon stem cells protect against apoptosis of tenocytes via targeting caspase3
Authors: An Qing , Zhou Zipeng , Xu Chang , Xiao Qiang
Published: July 2024

Background

Tendons are important dense fibrous structures connecting muscle to bone, and tendon stem cells (TDSCs) affect their repair and regeneration. The role of TDSC-derived exosomes (TDSC-Exos) is still being unexplored; therefore, this study aimed to investigate the protective effect of TDSC-Exos on tenocytes.

Methods

The TDSCs and tenocytes were all derived from Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. The expression of positive and negative markers of TDSCs were detected by flow cytometry, and the multi-differentiation ability was also detected to identify TDSCs. Exos were derived from TDSCs using ultracentrifugation; furthermore, Exos enriched with microRNA(miR)-377-3p were generated from TDSCs stably overexpressing miR-377-3p after transfection, identified with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), western blot and PKH26 staining assay. Moreover, the cell functions of tenocytes were evaluated by MTT, EdU, transwell, and flow cytometry. Dual luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays were used to verify the binding sites of miR-337-3p and caspase3 (CASP3) predicted by Targetscan.

Results

Exos (miR-337-3p) were taken up by tenocytes, and promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion and suppressed the apoptosis of tenocytes in a dose-dependent manner. Bioinformatics analysis showed that CASP3 was a target of miR-377-3p, which was further verified by luciferase and RNA pull-down assays. Moreover, over-expressed CASP3 reversed the effects of Exos (miR-337-3p) on cell functions of tenocytes.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that Exos derived from miR-337-3p over-expressing TDSCs could potentially protect against tenocyte apoptosis by regulating CASP3. This novel therapeutic approach holds promise for the treatment of tendon injury, offering a glimmer of hope for improved patient outcomes.
Effect of the postoperative pain management model on the psychological status and quality of life of patients in the advanced intensive care unit
Authors: Wang Lijuan , Zhang Qiang
Published: July 2024

Objective

it was to explore the influence of the postoperative pain management mode on the psychological state, quality of life (QOL), and nursing satisfaction of late patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) and improve the nursing effect of late patients in the ICU.

Methods

seventy patients who were admitted to the postoperative ICU for gastric cancer and received treatment in our hospital from March 2021 to May 2022 were selected. The patients were assigned into a research group and a control (Ctrl) group according to a random number table, with 70 cases in each group. The Ctrl group received routine nursing intervention, while research group received nursing intervention based on routine nursing intervention with postoperative pain management mode and received psychological care. Good communication was established with the patients, and the postoperative pain assessment was well conducted. The general information, state-trait anxiety (STAI) score, World Health Organization’s Quality of Life Instrument (WHO QOL-BREF) score, and care satisfaction were compared.

Results

the general information differed slightly, such as sex, age, and ward type, between groups, with comparability (P > 0.05). S-AI scores (13.15 ± 1.53 vs. 16.23 ± 1.24) and T-AI scores (14.73 ± 3.12 vs. 18.73 ± 3.16) in research group were inferior to those in Ctrl group (P < 0.05). The scores of patients in research group in the physiological field (78.9 ± 6.1 points vs. 72.3 ± 5.6 points), social relationship field (76.9 ± 4.5 points vs. 71.3 ± 4.8 points), psychological field (78.6 ± 6.2 points vs. 72.4 ± 5.3 points), environmental field (78.6 ± 6.7 points vs. 73.5 ± 6.4 points), and total QOL (79.5 ± 7.4 points vs. 71.6 ± 5.4 points) were higher than those in Ctrl group (P < 0.05). The total satisfaction rate with nursing care in research group (82.85%) was dramatically superior to that in Ctrl group (62.85%) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

the adoption of a postoperative pain management model in postoperative nursing interventions for patients in advanced ICUs can alleviate anxiety and depression, improve patients’ QOL and nursing satisfaction, and have clinical promotion value.
Identifying quality indicators for home care services: a modified Delphi and Analytic Hierarchy Process study
Authors: Zheng Qiu-Lan , Kong Ling-Na , Hu Ping , Liu Dun-Xiu
Published: July 2024

Background

As the recipients of home care services, patients have the most direct and profound experience of service quality. There is limited knowledge as to quality indicators for home care services from patients’ perspective. This study aimed to identify quality indicators for home care services based on the Service Quality model and determine the weights of these indicators.

Methods

A two-round Delphi survey and Analytic Hierarchy Process consultation were conducted to gather opinions from national experts on quality indicators for home care services developed on the basis of the Service Quality model. Consensus was defined as at least 80% agreement on the importance (important and very important) of indicators among experts. The Analytic Hierarchy Process was used to calculate the weight coefficients of the identified indicators.

Results

The response rate was 95.0% and 97.4% in the first and second round, respectively. After two rounds, five first-level (tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy) and 23 second-level indicators were identified. The Kendall’s W values were 0.54 and 0.40 for the first-level and second-level indicators (p < 0.001). The weight coefficients for the first-level and second-level indicators were 0.110–0.298 and 0.019–0.088, respectively.

Conclusion

Quality indicators for home care services were identified based on the Service Quality model. These indicators can be used to evaluate the service quality of home care from patients’ perspective and facilitate to determine work priorities and improve the quality of home care.
Comparable to 17α- methyl testosterone, dietary supplements of Tribulus terrestris and Mucuna pruriens promote the development of mono-sex, all-male tilapia fry, growth, survival rate and sex-related genes (Amh, Sox9, Foxl2, Dmrt1)
Authors: Matter Aya F. , Raslan Walaa S. , Soror Eman I. , Khalil Eman K. , Kadah Amgad , Youssef Hadeer A.
Published: July 2024

To evaluate Tribulus terrestris and Mucuna pruriens for inducing all-male tilapia, mixed-sex Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, (mean weight 0.025 ± 0.009 g; mean length 1.25 ± 0.012 cm), were given a meal supplemented with either T. terrestris powder (commercial fish feed, 40% crude protein) (TT group), M. pruriens seed extract (MP group), MP + TT (mixed group), 17α-methyl testosterone (MT, control positive), or without supplements (control negative). The MP extracts significantly increased (P < 0.05) the final weight, weight gain, weight gain rate, and specific growth rate while feed conversion ratio was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Plant extracts markedly improved (P < 0.05) the survival rate, proportion of males, and total testosterone compared to control and MT. Estrogen levels were lower in groups with plant extract than other groups. Fifteen days post-feeding, the Amh gene was expressed in the brain of O. niloticus fries with higher levels in MP, TT, and MT groups. Additionally, the expression of the Sox9 and Dmrt1 genes as a male related genes in fish fry gonads revealed significantly (P < 0.05) higher levels in groups fed on MP, TT, and MT compared to control after 30-day post-feeding, whereas; Foxl2 gene expression as a female related gene was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in fish fed on MP, TT, and MT compared to other groups after 30 days post feeding. Histologically, MT, MP, TT, and the mixture all exhibited solely male reproductive traits without noticeable abnormalities. This study concluded that each of the TT or MP extracts can induce sex reversal in tilapia while having no negative health impact compared to MT as the growth and survival rate in the treated groups with TT and MP were higher than control and group treated with MT.
Inorganic nanoparticle-based treatment approaches for colorectal cancer: recent advancements and challenges
Authors: Narayana Soumya , Gowda B.H. Jaswanth , Hani Umme , Shimu Sharmin Sultana , Paul Karthika , Das Avinaba , Ashique Sumel , Ahmed Mohammed Gulzar , Tarighat Maryam Abbasi , Abdi Gholamreza
Published: July 2024

Colorectal cancer, the third most prevalent cancer globally, contributes significantly to mortality rates, with over 1.9 million reported cases and nearly 935,000 fatalities annually. Surgical resection is a primary approach for localized colorectal tumors, with adjunct therapies like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted/immunotherapy considered depending on the tumor stage. However, despite preferences for targeted and immunotherapy post-surgery, chemotherapy remains commonly chosen due to its lower cost and high cancer-killing efficiency. Yet, chemotherapy faces issues such as tumor resistance and severe side effects. Nanotechnology has emerged in cancer therapy by alleviating the drawbacks of current treatment approaches. In the past few decades, inorganic nanoparticles have shown promise in combating colorectal cancer, offering advantages over conventional chemotherapy. Compared to organic nanoparticles, inorganic nanoparticles exhibit properties like photosensitivity, conductivity, magnetic allure, and thermal proficiency, allowing them to function as both drug carriers and therapeutic agents. Derived primarily from carbon, silica, metals, and metal oxides, they offer superior drug-loading capacity, heightened quantum yield, and participation in advanced photothermal and photodynamic therapies. This review provides a brief overview of the pathophysiology of colorectal cancer and the pivotal role of inorganic nanoparticles in photothermal therapy photodynamic therapy, and drug delivery. Additionally, it discusses numerous inorganic nanoparticles in colorectal cancer therapy based on recent literature.

Graphical abstract
Neoadjuvant therapy of sequential TACE, camrelizumab, and apatinib for single huge hepatocellular carcinoma (NEO-START): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hao Yun , Xie Fei , Zhou Yongjie , Li Chuan , Zhang Xiaoyun , Shen Junyi , Yao Minghong , Sun Xin , Zhou Jin , Wen Tianfu , Peng Wei
Published: July 2024

Background

The high recurrence rate after liver resection emphasizes the urgent need for neoadjuvant therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to enhance the overall prognosis for patients. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, camrelizumab combined with an anti-angiogenic tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) apatinib, have emerged as a first-line treatment option for patients with unresectable HCC, yet its neoadjuvant application in combination with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in HCC remains unexplored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of sequential TACE, camrelizumab, and apatinib as a neoadjuvant therapy for single, huge HCC.

Methods

This multi-center, open-label randomized phase 3 trial will be conducted at 7 tertiary hospitals. Patients with single huge (≥ 10 cm in diameter), resectable HCC will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to arm of surgery alone or arm of neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery. In the neoadjuvant therapy group, patients will receive TACE within 1 week after randomization, followed by camrelizumab (200 mg q2w, 4 cycles), along with apatinib (250 mg qd, 2 months). Patients will receive liver resection after neoadjuvant therapy unless the disease is assessed as progressive. The primary outcome is recurrence-free survival (RFS) at 1 year. The planned sample size of 60 patients will be calculated to permit the accumulation of sufficient RFS events in 1 year to achieve 80% power for the RFS primary endpoint.

Discussion

Synergistic effects provided by multimodality therapy of locoregional treatment, TKI, and anti-programmed cell death 1 inhibitor significantly improved overall survival for patients with unresectable HCC. Our trial will investigate the efficacy and safety of the triple combination of TACE, camrelizumab, and apatinib as a neoadjuvant strategy for huge, resectable HCC.

Trial registration

www.chitr.org.cn ChiCTR2300078086. Registered on November 28, 2023. Start recruitment: 1st January 2024. Expected completion of recruitment: 15th June 2025.
Unveiling the presence and genotypic diversity of Giardia duodenalis on large-scale sheep farms: insights from the Henan and Ningxia Regions, China
Authors: Zhao Qianming , Ning Xiaodong , Yue Zhiguang , Jian Fuchun , Li Dongliang , Lang Jiashu , Lu Shunli , Ning Changshen
Published: July 2024

Background

The parasitic protozoan Giardia duodenalis is an important cause of diarrheal disease in humans and animals that can be spread by fecal–oral transmission through water and the environment, posing a challenge to public health and animal husbandry. Little is known about its impact on large-scale sheep farms in China. In this study we investigated G. duodenalis infection of sheep and contamination of the environment in large-scale sheep farms in two regions of China, Henan and Ningxia.

Methods

A total of 528 fecal samples, 402 environmental samples and 30 water samples were collected from seven large-scale sheep farms, and 88 fecal samples and 13 environmental samples were collected from 12 backyard farms. The presence of G. duodenalis was detected by targeting the β-giardin (bg) gene, and the assemblage and multilocus genotype of G. duodenalis were investigated by analyzing three genes: bg, glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and triphosphate isomerase (tpi).

Results

The overall G. duodenalis detection rate was 7.8%, 1.4% and 23.3% in fecal, environmental and water samples, respectively. On the large-scale sheep farms tested, the infection rate of sheep in Henan (13.8%) was found to be significantly higher than that of sheep in Ningxia (4.2%) (P < 0.05). However, the difference between the rates of environmental pollution in Henan (1.9%) and Ningxia (1.0%) was not significant (P > 0.05). Investigations of sheep at different physiological stages revealed that late pregnancy ewes showed the lowest infection rate (1.7%) and that young lambs exhibited the highest (18.8%). Genetic analysis identified G. duodenalis belonging to two assemblages, A and E, with assemblage E being dominant. A total of 27 multilocus genotypes were identified for members of assemblage E.

Conclusions

The results suggest that G. duodenalis is prevalent on large-scale sheep farms in Henan and Ningxia, China, and that there is a risk of environmental contamination. This study is the first comprehensive examination of the presence of G. duodenalis on large-scale sheep farms in China. Challenges posed by G. duodenalis to sheep farms need to be addressed proactively to ensure public health safety.

Graphical Abstract
The hybrid operation based on microsurgery assisted by intraoperative spinal angiography in patients with spinal dural arteriovenous fistula: a series of 45 cases from multicenter research
Authors: Sun Xiaorong , Yu Li , Jia Wenqing , Dai Wei
Published: July 2024

Background

To assess the clinical effects of hybrid surgery, which includes spinal angiography-assisted microsurgery, in the treatment of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVF).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 45 patients who underwent hybrid Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) resection between September 2019 and June 2022. The hybrid surgery involved intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA) of the spinal vessels to determine the source of the blood-supplying artery, location of the fistula and draining vein, indocyanine green fluorescence (ICG)-assisted microsurgical resection of the fistula, and postoperative DSA to verify therapeutic efficacy. The Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Barthel score, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and modified Aminoff-Logue score (key indicator) were used to assess the clinical effects of SDAVF resection.

Results

A series of 45 patients with SDAVF were successfully treated with hybrid surgery without fistula recurrence. There were no intraoperative complications related to spinal angiography, and none of the patients died. Postoperatively, two patients experienced clinical deterioration of spinal cord function, which manifested as bilateral lower extremity paralysis and bladder sphincter dysfunction. Postoperatively, improvement in mALS scores was observed in 16 cases (35.6%) within 1–2 days, 12 cases (26.7%) at 1 week, and 7 cases (15.6%) at 6 months. No SDAVF recurrence was detected in the spinal MRA examination 6 months after surgery. When compared with preoperative mALS scores, 35 cases (77.8%) showed significant improvement in symptoms, 8 cases (17.8%), remained unchanged, and 2 cases (4.4%) deteriorated. Compared with the preoperative scores, the postoperative mALS score was significantly decreased [postoperative vs. preoperative: 2(1,3) vs. 3(2,4)], HAMD score [(12.2 ± 5.5) vs. (19.6 ± 6.3)], HAMA score [(15.6 ± 5.5) vs. (20.5 ± 6.5)], and VAS score [3(2,5) vs. 5(4,8)]. Conversely, Barthel scoresshowed significant increase [(74.6 ± 8.7) vs. (67.8 ± 9.2)] (P < 0.05). However, the mRS scores were lower than preoperatively [1(1,2) vs. 2(1,2.5)], but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). There was a significant increase in “good” neurological outcomes at follow-up compared with preoperative function (62.2% vs. 33.3%) (P = 0.023).

Conclusion

Hybrid surgery is a safe and effective treatment for patients with SAVF, which is beneficial for improving anxiety, depression, spinal cord, and neurological function, and relieving pain. However, the treatment of patients with SDAVF is a complex, long-term process requiring further multidisciplinary interventions, including clinical care, psychosocial interventions, and neurorehabilitation.
Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy for connective tissue diseases and complications
Authors: Kotani Takuya , Saito Takashi , Suzuka Takayasu , Matsuda Shogo
Published: July 2024

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may be effective in treating connective tissue disease and associated organ damage, leveraging their anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects. Moreover, MSCs may possess the ability to produce antiapoptotic, proliferative, growth, angiogenic, and antifibrotic factors. Among MSCs, adipose-derived MSCs (ASCs) stand out for their relative ease of harvesting and abundance. Additionally, studies have indicated that compared with bone marrow-derived MSCs, ASCs have superior immunomodulatory, proangiogenic, antiapoptotic, and antioxidative properties. However, relatively few reviews have focused on the efficacy of ASC therapy in treating connective tissue disease (CTD) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). Therefore, this review aims to evaluate evidence from preclinical studies that investigate the effectiveness of MSC therapy, specifically ASC therapy, in managing CTD and ILD. Moreover, we explore the outcomes of documented clinical trials. We also introduce an innovative approach involving the utilization of pharmacologically primed ASCs in the CTD model to address the current challenges associated with ASC therapy.