bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intergenerational reciprocity and WHO function ability domains predict loneliness in older Chinese adults
Authors: Zhao Ivy Yan , Leung Angela Y. M. , Deng Sasha Yuanjie , Ho Mu‐Hsing , Saravanakumar Priya , Montayre Jed , Molassiotis Alex
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To examine loneliness in old age and whether intergenerational reciprocity and WHO functional ability predicted loneliness.

Methods

Using the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study Wave 4 (2018) database (CHARLS), logistic regression models were adopted to investigate the relationships.

Results

The prevalence of loneliness was 28% in older people in China. Corresponding to the five domains of functional abilities, providing financial support to adult children (adj. OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.70–0.99), self‐perceived health (adj. OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.19–1.41), having a retirement pension (adj. OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.57–0.93), the ability to decide on taking medications (adj. OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.10–1.58), as well as being able to get up from a chair (adj. OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.02–1.3), and having paid work (adj. OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.54–0.95) were associated with less loneliness. On the contrary, infrequent contact (once a month) with adult children (adj. OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.01–1.38), troubling body pain (adj. OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.10–1.23) and falling since the last interview (adj. OR .23, 95% CI 1.04–1.45) were positively associated with loneliness.

Conclusions

In this study, functional abilities of meeting basic needs, making decisions, being mobile and contributing to the support of adult children and society were protective factors for experiencing loneliness in late life. We need to rethink interventions for addressing loneliness in the context of healthy ageing and specific cultural values, taking into account not only providing services to older adults but also supporting them to gain values by contributing to society.
Superficial oesophageal mucosal innervation may contribute to severity of symptoms in oesophageal motility disorders
Authors: Sawada Akinari , Zhang Mengyu , Ustaoglu Ahsen , Nikaki Kornilia , Lee Chung , Woodland Philip , Yazaki Etsuro , Takashima Shingo , Ominami Masaki , Tanaka Fumio , Ciafardini Clorinda , Nachman Fabio , Ditaranto Andrés , Agotegaray Joaquín , Bilder Claudio , Savarino Edoardo , Gyawali C. Prakash , Penagini Roberto , Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Sifrim Daniel
Published: October 2023

Background

Mechanisms underlying perception of dysphagia and chest pain have not been completely elucidated, although oesophageal mucosal afferent nerves might play an important role.

Aims

To evaluate the relationship between oesophageal mucosal afferent nerves and the severity of dysphagia and chest pain in oesophageal motility disorders.

Methods

We prospectively recruited patients with oesophageal motility disorders having dysphagia and/or chest pain from whom oesophageal biopsies were obtained. High‐resolution manometry classified patients into disorders of oesophagogastric junction (OGJ) outflow and disorders of peristalsis. Symptom severity was assessed using validated questionnaires including Brief Oesophageal Dysphagia Questionnaire (BEDQ). Immunohistochemistry was performed on oesophageal biopsies to evaluate the location of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP)‐immunoreactive mucosal afferent nerves. Findings were compared to existing data from 10 asymptomatic healthy volunteers.

Results

Of 79 patients, 61 patients had disorders of OGJ outflow and 18 had disorders of peristalsis. CGRP‐immunoreactive mucosal nerves were more superficially located in the mucosa of patients with oesophageal motility disorders compared to healthy volunteers. Within disorders of OGJ outflow, the location of CGRP‐immunoreactive nerves negatively correlated with BEDQ score both in the proximal (ρ = −0.567, p < 0.001) and distal oesophagus (ρ = −0.396, p = 0.003). In the proximal oesophagus, strong chest pain was associated with more superficially located mucosal nerves than weak chest pain (p = 0.04). Multivariate analysis showed superficial nerves in the proximal oesophagus was independently associated with severe dysphagia in disorders of OGJ outflow (p = 0.008).

Conclusions

Superficial location of mucosal nerves in the proximal oesophagus might contribute to symptoms, especially severe dysphagia, in disorders of OGJ outflow.
The role of purchasing and supply management in diffusing sustainability in supply networks: A systematic literature review
Authors: Miandar Toloue , E. Johnsen Thomas , Caniato Federico
Published: October 2023

One of the most difficult supply network challenges facing companies today is how to diffuse sustainability not only among their direct (first‐tier) suppliers but also throughout their supply networks. Although a growing body of research has been dedicated to addressing this challenge, the role of purchasing and supply management (PSM) in sustainable supply network development remains underexplored. In this paper, we present a systematic review of the literature on the role of PSM in the diffusion of sustainability in supply networks. We analysed 133 peer‐reviewed papers published in 21 journals in the field of PSM. We scrutinized the theories, methods and levels of analysis used in sustainable PSM research, classified the practices for diffusing sustainability in supply networks and identified the role of PSM in the diffusion of sustainability. Accordingly, we put forward a set of propositions that link diffusion practices—and the role of PSM in these practices—with embedded and peripheral sustainability and suggest future research directions.
The radiological unknown primary of the head and neck: Recommendations for imaging strategies based on a systematic review
Authors: Madani Gitta , Arain Zoya , Awad Zaid
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To develop recommendations for the radiological investigation of clinically occult primary cancer in the head and neck.

Design and Setting

In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, a search was performed on Medline, Embase and Cochrane library databases to investigate the efficacy of ultrasound guided Fine Needle Aspiration (US FNAC), contrast enhanced CT (CECT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose PET‐CT (18F‐FDG PET‐CT) in the investigation of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma from an unknown primary (HNSCCUP) presenting with a metastatic cervical lymph node (s). The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies Version 2 tool and SIGN 50 guidelines were used to assess the risk of bias and quality of the included studies.

Participants

Adult patients presenting with metastatic cervical lymph nodes from a HNSCCUP.

Main Outcome measures

Utility of different imaging modalities (PET‐CT, MRI, CE CT and US FNAC in the management of HNSCCUP).

Results

Twenty‐eight studies met inclusion criteria; these were meta‐analyses, systematic reviews, prospective and retrospective studies.

Conclusions

The optimal imaging strategy involves utilisation of various imaging modalities. US FNAC can provide the initial diagnosis and HPV status of the occult primary tumour. CECT and MRI detect up to 44% of occult tumours and guide management. FDG PET‐CT is the most sensitive imaging modality for the detection of CUP and should be performed prior to panendoscopy.
Improving implementation of best practices in obesity management: Physician experiences in obesity care
Authors: Lee‐Baggley Dayna , Fils‐Aimé Nadège , Audet Isabelle , Barakat Maxime
Published: October 2023

In this study, we sought to analyse experiences in weight management among physicians working in the area of obesity and contrast these experiences with best practices. By understanding experiences of physicians working in obesity management, we can better support implementation of best practices in their day‐to‐day practice. An online survey of Canadian primary care physicians, internists and endocrinologists recruited from a nationwide market research database was conducted. The survey captured demographic characteristics and perceptions about weight loss and its management. One hundred and ninety‐two physicians (140 primary care, 22 internists and 30 endocrinologists) were recruited and completed the survey. Challenges identified by the physicians in helping patients lose weight included patients' poor compliance and lack of time and resources to address the issue. Most physicians reported considering obesity to be a chronic disease, but most did not incorporate a multi‐dimensional, chronic disease model of obesity treatment (i.e., combination of lifestyle interventions with psychological, medical and/or surgical interventions). Endocrinologists reported management practices consistent with a chronic disease model more frequently than primary care physicians. These data highlight the need for improvement in obesity management, particularly in primary care. Despite proliferation of guidelines on best practices, implementation of these practices into daily practice remains low.
Fotografie in der Dermatologie – ein Scoping Review: Praktiken, Skin of Color, Patientenpräferenzen und medizinisch‐rechtliche Überlegungen
Authors: Kashetsky Nadia , Mar Kristie , Liu Chaocheng , Rivers Jason K , Mukovozov Ilya
Published: October 2023

Die klinische Fotografie ist essentiell für die Dermatologie. Es gibt jedoch keine umfassende Aufarbeitung der Literatur zur Fotografie in der Dermatologie. Dieser Scoping Review soll die Literatur zu fotografischen Praktiken in der Dermatologie, der Fotografie stark pigmentierter Haut (Skin of Color), Patientenpräferenzen und medizinisch‐rechtlichen Überlegungen zusammenfassen. Die Datenbanken Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed und Evidence Based Medicine wurden im Einklang mit der PRISMA‐Erweiterung für Scoping Reviews durchsucht. Insgesamt wurden 33 Studien zusammengefasst. Die klinische Fotografie wird häufig für die Markierung von Biospiestellen, Beurteilung, Diagnostik, Krankheitsüberwachung, Bewertung des Ansprechens auf die Behandlung, medizinische Ausbildung, Forschung, das Einholen kollegialer Ratschläge und in der Teledermatologie eingesetzt. Obwohl es in der dermatologischen Fotografie weiterhin kaum Darstellungen von Skin of Color gibt, sind fotografische Überlegungen für dunklere Hauttypen verfügbar. Die meisten Patienten unterstützen die medizinische Fotografie. Dabei besteht der Wunsch, dass klinische Fotografien vom eigenen Arzt aufgenommen und bevorzugt klinikeigene Kameras und keine persönlichen Geräte verwendet werden. Relevante medizinisch‐rechtliche Fragestellungen umfassen Bedenken hinsichtlich des Datenschutzes, der Verwendung persönlicher Geräte und der Dokumentation der Einwilligung. Die Fotografie in der Dermatologie entwickelt sich ständig weiter und findet immer breitere Anwendung. Verbesserte Verfahren und Innovationen werden Menschen aller Hautfarben zugute kommen. Die Einhaltung der Zustimmung und des Datenschutzes muss gewährleistet werden, um die zunehmende Einfachheit der Bildaufnahme und ‐freigabe aufrechtzuerhalten.
Pemphigus‐ und Pemphigoid‐Erkrankungen: Klinik, Diagnostik und Therapie
Authors: Didona Dario , Schmidt Morna F. , Maglie Roberto , Solimani Farzan
Published: October 2023

Pemphigus und Pemphigoid sind seltene Autoimmunkrankheiten der Haut mit potenziell lebensbedrohlichem Verlauf. Autoantikörper gegen epidermale und junktionale Strukturproteine (Desmosomen sowie Hemidesmosomen) führen bei Betroffenen typischerweise zu juckenden, schmerzhaften Plaques oder Blasen an der Haut und/oder Blasenbildung und Erosionen der Schleimhäute mit möglicher Einschränkung der Lebensqualität. Seit der bahnbrechenden Arbeit von Walter Lever im Jahr 1953, dem es gelang, mittels histopathologischer Untersuchung diese beiden Krankheitsgruppen anhand des Musters der Antikörper‐vermittelten Blasenbildung zu differenzieren, wurden enorme Fortschritte im Verständnis der Erkrankungen erzielt. Die Errungenschaften in der Labordiagnostik ermöglichten die Identifikation von Zielstrukturen zur präzisen Unterscheidung verschiedener Varianten der bullösen Autoimmunerkrankungen. Diese Fortschritte gingen dank der Entwicklung von Tiermodellen mit einem besseren Verständnis der Pathogenese einher. Außerdem haben Studien an Haut und Blut betroffener Patienten zu neuen und krankheitsspezifischen Behandlungen geführt. Aufgrund ihrer Seltenheit und der klinischen Ähnlichkeit mit anderen dermatologischen Erkrankungen verzögern sich die korrekte Diagnosestellung und die Einleitung einer entsprechenden Therapie häufig, was in einigen Fällen zu irreversiblen Folgeerscheinungen, einschließlich Funktionsstörungen von Organen (zum Beispiel Verlust des Sehvermögens beim Schleimhautpemphigoid) führt. Wir geben hier einen Überblick über das klinische Erscheinungsbild, den Diagnosealgorithmus und das therapeutische Management von Pemphigus‐ und Pemphigoid‐Erkrankungen.
Unveiling empathy: Transforming child neurodisability in the Brazilian context of poverty and violence
Authors: dos Santos Gleidna Nascimento , Lima‐Costa Ariela Raissa , Otoni Fernanda , Veiga Heila Magali da Silva , Peres Rodrigo Sanches , Azevedo Adriano Valério , Antunes Maria Cristina , Bonfá‐Araujo Bruno , Cortez Pedro Afonso
Published: October 2023

This letter to the editor is on the original article by Dorris et al. The article is available at https://doi.org/10.1111/dmcn.15263

Portuguese translation of this letter to the editor is available in the online issue.
Participation of lncRNAs in the development of diabetic complications: Systematic review and meta‐analysis. I. Rat
Authors: Cabrera‐Najera Leonardo‐Elias , Chirino‐Galindo Gladys , Palomar‐Morales Martín
Published: October 2023

Aims

We evaluated the involvement of lncRNAs in the development of pathologies associated with chronic hyperglycaemia in rat models in a model of type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes.

Methods

Reports were searched in Dialnet, Scielo, HINARI, Springer, ClinicalKey, OTseeker, PubMed and different grey literature databases with any restrictions. Bibliography databases will be searched from their inception to December 2022.

Results

Thirty‐seven studies met our criteria, and they had the following characteristics: original experimental studies on diabetes, the lncRNAs were extracted or measured from tissues of specific areas and the results were expressed in terms of standard measures by RT‐PCR. In most studies, both primary and secondary outcomes were mentioned. On the other hand, we found a total of nine diabetic complications, being retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy the most representatives. Additionally, it was found that MALAT1, H19, NEAT1 and TUG1 are the most studied lncRNAs about these complications in rats. On the other hand, the lncRNAs with the highest rate of change were MSTRG.1662 (17.85; 13.78, 21.93), ENSRNOT00000093120_Aox3 (7.13; 5.95, 8.31) and NONRATG013497.2 (−5.55; −7.18, −3.93).

Conclusions

This review found a significant involvement of lncRNAs in the progression of pathologies associated with chronic hyperglycaemia in rat models, and further studies are needed to establish their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for diabetes.
Clinical competency development with handmade simulator in highly realistic paediatric dentistry scenarios
Authors: Bartolomé Villar Begoña , de la Hoz Calvo Ana , Torres Moreta Luz , Coro‐Montanet Gleyvis
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The use of simulation is extremely useful in pregraduate students. However, there is a very small number of simulators adapted to paediatric dentistry. A paediatric simulator was created to use in simulated scenarios for paediatric dentistry using an actress in the role of mother. The objectives of the present study were three. First, to analyse the perception of clinical competencies acquired by the students. Second, to examine the realism perceived by the students. Finally, to analyse the influence on the perception of clinical competencies after the integration of a handmade simulator in the Paediatric Dentistry III course.

Materials and Methods

Eight clinical scenarios were carried out with a modified Erler Zimmer simulator for children, a professional actress in the role of the mother and two students (in the roles of dentist and assistant) on a paediatric dentistry case of pulpal pathology. The educational intervention was evaluated on 114 students by means of questionnaires with Likert‐type answers applied pre‐ and post‐simulation.

Results

The perception of clinical competence in the students increased an average of 0.956 points in relation with the initial clinical evaluation, finding a strong correlation between the perception of subsequent competence and all the perceived realism, with significant statistical differences in all cases. The realism of the simulated participant (professional actress) was the best rated by the students, although not significantly. The realism of the mannequin was positively and strongly correlated with the perceived realism of the cabinet.

Conclusion

Simulation using a handmade mannequin with a professional actress in a simulated dental office increased the perception of clinical competence in 4th year dental students and raised the level of overall realism perceived by the student.
Dental students' perceptions of simultaneous live and online OSCEs during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tuononen Tiina , Karaharju‐Suvanto Terhi , Lahti Satu , Hytönen Hanna , Näpänkangas Ritva
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a valid, reliable and reproducible assessment method traditionally carried out as a live examination but recently also provided online. The aim was to compare any differences in the perceptions of dental students participating in online and live OSCE using mixed methods.

Materials and Methods

All Finnish fourth‐year undergraduate dental students (n = 172) attended the exam in April 2021. Due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, the official administrative restrictions in teaching in universities still existed in April 2021. By the time of the national OSCE, the pandemic situation varied in different parts of the country. Therefore, two of the universities conducted a live OSCE and two an online version of the OSCE. Data were collected after the OSCE using a voluntary anonymous electronic questionnaire with multiple‐choice and open‐ended questions (response rate 58%). Differences between the OSCE versions were analysed using the Mann–Whitney U test and open answers with qualitative content analysis.

Results

The students considered both types of OSCE good in general. The main differences were found concerned adequate time allocation and overall technical implementation, in favour of the live OSCE. While a qualitative analysis revealed exam anxiety as the most often mentioned negative issue, overall, comments were positive.

Conclusion

Variation in the assessments between different question entities seemed to be wider than between the implemented OSCE versions. Time management in the OSCE should be further developed by managing the assignment of tasks.
Allogeneic hematopoetic stem cell transplant for patients with refractory T‐Cell lymphomas
Authors: Massoud Radwan , Naim Hassan , Klyuchnikov Evgeny , Janson Dietlinde , Wolschke Christine , Ayuk Francis , Kröger Nicolaus
Published: October 2023

Objective

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT) may have a curative potential due to the graft versus lymphoma effect. In this study, we aimed to compare transplant outcomes between refractory‐T‐NHL (ref‐NHL) and Chemosensitive‐T‐NHL (CS‐T‐NHL).

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 26 ref‐NHL and 29 CS‐T‐NHL consecutive patients who underwent allo‐SCT at our center and compared the transplant outcomes between the groups.

Results

All patients were heavily pretreated with 27% of patients relapsing post‐auto‐SCT and two patients in the ref‐T‐NHL post‐allo‐SCT. Patients were transplanted mainly from unrelated donors. There were no differences in leucocytes and platelet engraftment between the two groups. At 3 years, the relapse incidence was 34% in Ref‐TNHL and 19% in CS‐TNHL (p = .33), with non‐relapse mortality rates of 28% and 22%, respectively (p = .52). Female patients and those with a previous auto‐SCT had lower relapse incidence (p = .045, p = .003). The 3‐year overall survival was 39% in Ref‐TNHL and 56% in CS‐TNHL (p = .15). Trends for improved progression‐free survival (PFS) and graft‐versus‐host disease relapse‐free survival (GRFS) were observed in the CS‐TNHL group (PFS: 60% vs. 30%, p = .075; GRFS: 38% vs. 21%, p = .1).

Conclusion

Acknowledging the retrospective nature of our study, our results indicate that allo‐SCT has a curative potential in patients with T‐NHL even in refractory status.
Diversity loss from multiple interacting disturbances is regime‐dependent
Authors: Lear Luke , Inamine Hidetoshi , Shea Katriona , Buckling Angus
Published: October 2023

Anthropogenic activities expose many ecosystems to multiple novel disturbances simultaneously. Despite this, how biodiversity responds to simultaneous disturbances remains unclear, with conflicting empirical results on their interactive effects. Here, we experimentally test how one disturbance (an invasive species) affects the diversity of a community over multiple levels of another disturbance regime (pulse mortality). Specifically, we invade stably coexisting bacterial communities under four different pulse frequencies, and compare their final resident diversity to uninvaded communities under the same pulse mortality regimes. Our experiment shows that the disturbances synergistically interact, such that the invader significantly reduces resident diversity at high pulse frequency, but not at low. This work therefore highlights the need to study simultaneous disturbance effects over multiple disturbance regimes as well as to carefully document unmanipulated disturbances, and may help explain the conflicting results seen in previous multiple‐disturbance work.
Upscaling the effect of traits in response to drought: The relative importance of safety–efficiency and acquisitive–conservation functional axes
Authors: Umaña María Natalia , Salgado‐Negret Beatriz , Norden Natalia , Salinas Viviana , Garzón Fabián , Medina Sandra P. , Rodríguez‐M. Gina M. , López‐Camacho René , Castaño‐Naranjo Alejandro , Cuadros Hermes , Franke‐Ante Rebeca , Avella Andrés , Idárraga‐Piedrahita Álvaro , Jurado Rubén , Nieto Jhon , Pizano Camila , Torres Alba M. , García Hernando , González‐M. Roy
Published: October 2023

We tested the idea that functional trade‐offs that underlie species tolerance to drought drive shifts in community composition via their effects on demographic processes and subsequently on shifts in species' abundance. Using data from 298 tree species from tropical dry forests during the extreme ENSO‐2015, we scaled‐up the effects of trait trade‐offs from individuals to communities. Conservative wood and leaf traits favoured slow tree growth, increased tree survival and positively impacted species abundance and dominance at the community‐level. Safe hydraulic traits, on the other hand, were related to demography but did not affect species abundance and communities. The persistent effects of the conservative–acquisitive trade‐off across organizational levels is promising for generalization and predictability of tree communities. However, the safety–efficient trade‐off showed more intricate effects on performance. Our results demonstrated the complex pathways in which traits scale up to communities, highlighting the importance of considering a wide range of traits and performance processes.
Progression of brain cholinergic dysfunction in patients with isolated rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Stær Kristian , Iranzo Alex , Terkelsen Miriam Højholt , Stokholm Morten Gersel , Danielsen Erik Hvid , Østergaard Karen , Serradell Mónica , Otto Marit , Svendsen Kristina B. , Garrido Alicia , Vilas Dolores , Santamaria Joan , Møller Arne , Gaig Carles , Brooks David J. , Borghammer Per , Tolosa Eduardo , Pavese Nicola
Published: October 2023

Background

Reduced cortical acetylcholinesterase activity, as measured by 11C‐donepezil positron emission tomography (PET), has been reported in patients with isolated rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (iRBD). However, its progression and clinical implications have not been fully investigated. Here, we explored the relationship between longitudinal changes in brain acetylcholinesterase activity and cognitive function in iRBD.

Methods

Twelve iRBD patients underwent 11C‐donepezil PET at baseline and after 3 years. PET images were interrogated with statistical parametric mapping (SPM) and a regions of interest (ROI) approach. Clinical progression was assessed with the Movement Disorder Society‐Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale‐Part III (MDS‐UPDRS‐III). Cognitive function was rated using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).

Results

From baseline to follow‐up, the mean 11C‐donepezil distribution volume ratio (DVR) decreased in the cortex (p = 0.006), thalamus (p = 0.013), and caudate (p = 0.013) ROI. Despite no significant changes in the group mean MMSE or MoCA scores being observed, individually, seven patients showed a decline in their scores on these cognitive tests. Subgroup analysis showed that only the subgroup of patients with a decline in cognitive scores had a significant reduction in mean cortical 11C‐donepezil DVR.

Conclusions

Our results show that severity of brain cholinergic dysfunction in iRBD patients increases significantly over 3 years, and those changes are more severe in those with a decline in cognitive test scores.
Equine allogeneic tenogenic primed mesenchymal stem cells: A clinical field study in horses suffering from naturally occurring superficial digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament injuries
Authors: Carlier Stephanie , Depuydt Eva , Suls Marc , Bocqué Cedric , Thys Justine , Vandenberghe Aurélie , Martens Ann , Saunders Jimmy , Hellmann Klaus , Braun Gabriele , Beerts Charlotte , Spaas Jan H.
Published: October 2023

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells are an innovative therapeutic for various equine orthopaedic diseases, including soft tissue injuries.

Objectives

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of tenogenic primed equine allogeneic peripheral blood‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (tpMSCs) in horses with naturally occurring superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and suspensory ligament (SL) injuries.

Study design

Multicentre, blinded, randomised, placebo‐controlled clinical trial.

Methods

One hundred client‐owned horses with SDFT and SL injuries were randomised to receive an intralesional tpMSC (66) or saline (34) injection. Clinical and ultrasonographic evaluation was performed before treatment and on Days 56 ± 3 and 112 ± 3 after treatment. Long‐term data on re‐injury was collected up to 2 years after treatment.

Results

Significantly more tpMSC‐treated horses achieved improvement in fibre alignment score (FAS) (100% vs. 54.5%, p < 0.001) and echogenicity (97.0% vs. 57.6%, p < 0.001) on Day 112 ± 3, and their lesion size decreased significantly (−27.6 ± 25.91 vs. −4.6 ± 26.64 mm2, p < 0.001) compared to the placebo group. A FAS = 0 was achieved in 65% of tpMSC‐treated horses, as compared to 9% of placebo‐treated horses at Day 112 ± 3. The attending veterinarians reported no re‐injury in 41 of 53 tpMSC and in 2 of 26 saline‐treated horses available for long‐term follow‐up (p < 0.001).

Main limitations

As this study consisted of client‐owned horses, no samples for histology were collected. Long‐term follow‐up was only available for a subset of enrolled horses.

Conclusions

The intralesional administration of tpMSCs was safe and improved the quality of healing and long‐term outcomes in sports horses with naturally occurring SDFT and suspensory injuries.
The potential role of ubiquitination and deubiquitination in melanogenesis
Authors: Hu Shuaishuai , Wang Lu
Published: October 2023

Melanogenesis is a critical biochemical process in which melanocytes produce melanin, a crucial element involved in the formation of coat colour in mammals. According to several earlier studies, melanocytes' post‐translational modifications of proteins primarily control melanogenesis. Among the many post‐translational changes that can affect melanin production, ubiquitination and deubiquitination can keep melanin production going by changing how proteins that are related to melanin are broken down or kept stable. Ubiquitination and deubiquitination maintain ubiquitin homeostasis, which is a highly dynamic process in balance under the action of E3 ubiquitin ligase and deubiquitinating enzymes. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying ubiquitination and deubiquitination in melanogenesis are yet to be thoroughly investigated. As a result, there has been a growing focus on exploring the potential correlation between melanogenesis, ubiquitination and deubiquitination. This study discusses the mechanisms of ubiquitination and deubiquitination in the context of melanogenesis, a crucial process for enhancing mammalian coat coloration and addressing pigment‐related diseases.
Elevated glycosylation of CD36 in platelets is a risk factor for oxLDL‐mediated platelet activation in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Agarwal Sakshi , Saha Sandhini , Ghosh Riya , Sarmadhikari Debapriyo , Asthana Shailendra , Maiti Tushar K. , Khadgawat Rajesh , Guchhait Prasenjit
Published: October 2023

Platelet activation and related cardiovascular complications are the hallmarks of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We investigated the mechanism of platelet activation in T2D using MS‐based identification of differentially expressed platelet proteins with a focus on glycosylated forms. Glycosylation is considered one of the common post‐translational modifications in T2D, and N/O‐linked glycosylation of glycoproteins (GPs)/integrins is known to play crucial roles in platelet activation. Our platelet proteome data revealed elevated levels of GPs GPIbα, GPIIbIIIa, GPIV (CD36), GPV and integrins in T2D patients. T2D platelets had elevated N‐linked glycosylation of CD36 at asparagine (Asn)408,417. Enrichment analysis revealed a close association of glycosylated CD36 with thrombospondin‐1, fibrinogen and SERPINA1 in T2D platelets. The glycosylation of CD36 has previously been reported to increase cellular uptake of long‐chain fatty acids. Our in silico molecular docking data also showed a favorable binding of cholesterol with glycosylated Asn417 CD36 compared to the non‐glycosylated form. We further investigated the CD36:LDL cholesterol axis in T2D. Elevated levels of oxidized‐low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) were found to cause significant platelet activation via CD36‐mediated stimulation of Lyn‐JNK signaling. Sulfo‐N‐succinimidyl oleate, an inhibitor of CD36, effectively inhibited oxLDL‐mediated platelet activation and adhesion in vitro. Our study suggests increased glycosylation of CD36 in T2D platelets as a potential route for oxLDL‐mediated platelet activation. The oxLDL:CD36 axis may thus be exploited as a prospective target to develop therapeutics against thrombosis in T2D.
The intricate link between iron, mitochondria and azoles in Candida species
Authors: Van Genechten Wouter , Vergauwen Rudy , Van Dijck Patrick
Published: October 2023

Invasive fungal infections are rapidly increasing, and the opportunistic pathogenic Candida species are the fourth most common cause of nosocomial systemic infections. The current antifungal classes, of which azoles are the most widely used, all have shortcomings. Azoles are generally considered fungistatic rather than fungicidal, they do not actively kill fungal cells and therefore resistance against azoles can be rapidly acquired. Combination therapies with azoles provide an interesting therapeutic outlook and agents limiting iron are excellent candidates. We summarize how iron is acquired by the host and transported towards both storage and iron‐utilizing organelles. We indicate whether these pathways alter azole susceptibility and/or tolerance, to finally link these transport mechanisms to mitochondrial iron availability. In this review, we highlight putative novel intracellular iron shuffling mechanisms and indicate that mitochondrial iron dynamics in relation to azole treatment and iron limitation is a significant knowledge gap.
StarD7 deficiency switches on glycolysis and promotes mitophagy flux in C2C12 myoblasts
Authors: Rojas María L. , Muñoz Juan Pablo , Flores‐Martín Jésica , Sànchez‐Fernàndez‐de‐Landa Paula , Cruz Del Puerto Mariano , Genti‐Raimondi Susana , Zorzano Antonio
Published: October 2023

StarD7 is a member of the START protein family required for phosphatidylcholine delivery to the mitochondria, thus key to maintain mitochondrial structure. Its deficiency has been associated with an impairment of cellular processes, such as proliferation and migration, and it has also been reported that it is needed in myogenic differentiation. Here, we show that StarD7 deficiency in C2C12 muscle cells results in the accumulation of abnormal mitochondria, a reduced number of mitochondria per cell area and increased glycolysis. In addition, StarD7‐deficient cells undergo an increase in mitochondria‐ER contact sites, reduced connexin 43 expression, and disturbances in lipid handling, evidenced by lipid droplet accumulation and decreased levels in phosphatidylserine synthase 1 and 2 expression. Interestingly, StarD7‐deficient cells showed alterations in mitophagy markers. We observed accumulation of LC3B‐II and BNIP3 proteins in mitochondria‐enriched fractions and accumulation of autophagolysosomal and lysosomal vesicles in StarD7‐deficient cells. Furthermore, live‐cell imaging experiments of StarD7 knockdown cells expressing mitochondria‐targeted mKeima indicated an enhanced mitochondria delivery into lysosomes. Importantly, StarD7 reconstitution in StarD7‐deficient cells restores LC3B‐II expression in mitochondria‐enriched fractions at similar levels to those observed in control cells. Collectively, these findings suggest that StarD7‐deficient C2C12 myoblasts are associated with altered cristae structure, disturbances in neutral lipid accumulation, glucose metabolism, and increased mitophagy flux. The alterations mentioned above allow for the maintenance of mitochondrial function.
Older people living in the community with delusion
Authors: Ito Kae
Published: October 2023

Aim

This study explores the intricate relationship between social interactions and the development of persecutory delusions among older women living alone in Japan. Focusing on the unique perspective of individuals experiencing delusions outside clinical settings, the aim was to understand the impact of interpersonal interactions on delusion formation.

Methods

Cases of older women living alone with persecutory delusions were selected from records of municipal psychogeriatric services and medical consultations within a community space. This study employed a descriptive approach to propose a hypothesis regarding the possible connection between social interactions and the development of persecutory delusions within this demographic.

Results

Two relevant cases were identified, from which a three‐step hypothesis emerged regarding the potential link between social interactions and the development of persecutory delusions in this demographic. Insights from these cases suggest that anxiety can trigger hallucinations, which, when unaddressed, evolve into delusional interpretations. Addressing these unmet needs could mitigate the progression of persecutory delusions.

Conclusions

The findings of this study underline the critical relationship between social interactions and persecutory delusions among older women living alone. The unmet need for empathy influences the progression from anxiety‐driven hallucinations to fully formed delusions. Early intervention can prevent the escalation of delusions and involuntary psychiatric hospitalization. This study underscores the importance of recognizing the link between social isolation and delusion emergence. It advocates for compassionate environments to meet the psychological needs of older individuals grappling with delusions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 118–122.
Evaluation and treatment of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease in adult patients with psoriasis
Authors: Palmer Victoria , Cornier Marc‐André , Waring Ashley , Valdebran Manuel
Published: October 2023

Psoriasis is strongly associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and metabolic syndrome, with patients having an approximately twofold increased risk of each compared to the general population. This increased risk is based on shared underlying genetic and cytokine profiles, as well as similar environmental risks. Many screening guidelines do not address the development of CVD and metabolic syndrome in these predisposed patients. These deficits are evidenced by the exclusion of psoriasis as a risk factor in validated 10‐year CVD risk calculators for adult patients with chronic inflammatory diseases, as well as insufficient screening guidelines for insulin resistance in patients with psoriasis. This manuscript aims to discuss and propose allopathic and lifestyle recommendations for the screening and management of the aforementioned comorbidities in adult patients with psoriasis.
Proctoscopy following transrectal prostate biopsy can control rectal bleeding after prostate biopsy
Authors: Nasu Yoshitsugu , Kawago Yuya
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Rectal bleeding is a common complication of transrectal ultrasound‐guided prostate biopsy (TRPB). Massive rectal bleeding after TRPB can be life threatening. We initiated proctoscopy after TRPB to clarify the incidence of rectal bleeding and evaluated the usefulness of proctoscopy for controlling bleeding after TRPB.

Materials

Two hundred and fifty six patients who underwent TRPB were included in the study. TRPB was performed under local anesthesia. Post‐biopsy, we performed a proctoscopy to evaluate the degree of rectal bleeding at four levels (G0, no bleeding; G1, traces; G2, venous bleeding requiring hemostasis; and G3, massive venous bleeding or arterial bleeding). Once the bleeding site on the rectal wall was identified, a gauze tampon was placed at the bleeding site and compressed for a few minutes. A second proctoscopy was performed to confirm complete hemostasis, after which the TRPB was terminated.

Results

Proctoscopy revealed that the degree of bleeding was G0 in 27 cases, G1 in 104 cases, G2 in 116 cases, and G3 in nine cases. Rectal bleeding that required hemostasis (G2 and G3) was observed in 125 of 256 cases (48.3%). Among the 125 cases, bleeding was stopped by compression in 121 cases; in the remaining four cases, bleeding continued despite compression and was stopped by suturing of the bleeding site. Suturing was performed by urologists, and none of the 256 patients had problematic posterior hemorrhage.

Conclusions

Proctoscopy enables precise and effective pressure hemostasis. Moreover, suturing hemostasis under direct vision can be performed in cases in which pressure hemostasis is difficult. Continued proctoscopy allays urologists' fear of post‐TRPB rectal bleeding.
Real world data of recurrent and survival rates of penile cancer patients in Songklanagarind hospital: Tumor stage as a predictor for disease‐free survival
Authors: Pinkheaw Natthakan , Sathitruangsak Chirawadee , Tanthanuch Monthira , Bejrananda Tanan
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study investigated disease‐free survival and oncological outcomes in penile cancer patients treated surgically at a high‐volume center and identified the prognostic factors for disease‐free survival.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on primary penile cancer patients diagnosed and treated at Songklanagarind Hospital, Thailand, between January 2001 and December 2021. Disease‐free survival (DFS) was assessed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves, and Cox proportional hazard models were used for multivariate analysis.

Results

The study included 188 patients with primary penile cancer. The majority (98.4%) were uncircumcised. Tumor staging revealed 40.6% with T1 tumors, 72.9% with well‐differentiated tumors, and 23.5% diagnosed at stage IIIA. The recurrence rate was 19.1%, with a mean time to recurrence of 25.9 months. Disease‐free survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 81.1%, 70.9%, and 70.9%, respectively. Median overall survival was 16.43 months, with survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years at 67.7%, 42.7%, and 35.4%, respectively. Cox proportional hazard models showed significant associations between disease‐free survival and a higher T stage, a high level of CRP (>15 mg/L), delayed onset of symptoms, primary lesion location, groin node metastasis, lymphovascular invasion, and pelvic lymph node metastases. However, multivariate analysis revealed that a higher primary tumor stage (T) was the only independent prognostic factor for disease‐free survival.

Conclusion

This study presents one of the largest cohorts investigating disease‐free survival outcomes in penile cancer treatment at a single institution over a prolonged period. A higher pathologic T stage is a significant prognostic factor for disease‐free survival. Further large‐scale prospective studies are needed for validation.
Development and sexual dimorphism of branchiae in Streblospio benedicti
Authors: Segarra Caitlin , McCain Elizabeth R.
Published: October 2023

The Spionidae is one of the largest and most studied annelid families, but to date, the development and differentiation of post‐metamorphic anatomy have not been documented. This study used scanning electron microscopy to examine the development of the branchiae, presumed respiratory organs, in Streblospio benedicti. Branchiae in this species are prominent, paired head structures and first appear around the time of metamorphosis, but do not complete their development until the worm reaches the older juvenile or adult stages. We observed that as the branchiae grew, their overall morphology changed through four different shapes: small bud, tubular, tapered, and, finally, bilimbate. In addition, the abfrontal and frontal surfaces each possessed a unique set of cilia patterns, which we named, and these arose in a particular sequence between the 8‐ and 35‐chaetiger stages. This detailed examination of every stage of branchial development led us to discover that branchia in Streblospio benedicti was a sexually dimorphic organ. Streblospio benedicti is one of approximately eight Spionidae in which there is any type of structural sexual dimorphism, and it is the only species in which sexually dimorphic branchiae are found. The male's frontal surface had four unique cilia patterns, and we hypothesize that those located around the medial protrusion capture and control the release of the spermatophores. This first documentation of a spionid's branchial developmental sequence revealed that not only is this respiratory organ involved in reproduction, but it significantly differentiates after metamorphosis through adulthood.
RETRACTED: Effects of parasternal intercostal block on surgical site wound infection and pain in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Jian‐Qiang , Li Zhen‐Hui , Dong Ping , Liu Peng , Xu Ying‐Zhen , Fan Zhi‐Jun
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to assess the effect of parasternal intercostal block on postoperative wound infection, pain, and length of hospital stay in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP, and Wanfang databases were extensively queried using a computer, and randomised controlled studies (RCTs) from the inception of each database to July 2023 were sought using keywords in English and Chinese language. Literature quality was assessed using Cochrane‐recommended tools, and the included data were collated and analysed using Stata 17.0 software for meta‐analysis. Ultimately, eight RCTs were included. Meta‐analysis revealed that utilising parasternal intercostal block during cardiac surgery significantly reduced postoperative wound pain (standardised mean difference [SMD] = −1.01, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: −1.70 to −0.31, p = 0.005) and significantly shortened hospital stay (SMD = −0.40, 95% CI: −0.77 to −0.04, p = 0.029), though it may increase the risk of wound infection (OR = 5.03, 95% CI:0.58–44.02, p = 0.144); however, the difference was not statistically significant. The application of parasternal intercostal block during cardiac surgery can significantly reduce postoperative pain and shorten hospital stay. This approach is worth considering for clinical implementation. Decisions regarding its adoption should be made in conjunction with the relevant clinical indices and surgeon's experience.
Effect of medium properties and additives on antibody stability and accumulation in suspended plant cell cultures
Authors: Tsoi Bonny M.‐Y. , Doran Pauline M.
Published: October 2023

Factors affecting antibody accumulation and stability were investigated in transgenic plant cell cultures. Whereas IgG1 antibody was stably maintained in media used for animal cell culture, there was a rapid loss over a period of 1–2 h of antibody added to sterile plant culture media. Antibody stability in Gamborg's B5 medium was improved in the absence of Mn. Tobacco suspensions producing IgG1 antibody were used to test various medium‐based strategies for improving antibody accumulation in plant culture. Even though growth was suppressed, antibody levels in the biomass and medium were increased in media containing mannitol at osmolalities up to ≈450 mOsm·(kg of water)−1. Adding gibberellic acid and haemin to the cultures was also beneficial, but the effects were not as great as those obtained under hyperosmolar conditions. Moderate increases in antibody accumulation were found by culturing plant cells in B5 medium without Mn.
Purification, characterization and cloning of a chitinase from Bacillus sp. NCTU2
Authors: Wen Chih‐Min , Tseng Chien‐Sheng , Cheng Chih‐Yu , Li Yaw‐Kuen
Published: October 2023

A chitin‐degrading Bacillus strain, designated as NCTU2, was screened from soil and identified. An extracellular chitinase was purified to >90% homogeneity from the culture filtrate. The purification involved hydrophobic‐interaction and gel‐filtration chromatographic separations with a yield of 58%. The purified enzyme (ChiNCTU2) is a monomeric protein with an estimated molecular mass of 36·5 kDa and a pI of 6·3. It is thermally stable at 60 °C and pH 6–8 for more than 3 h. The optimal activity is in the range of 50–60 °C at pH 7·0. Chitobiose is the predominant product throughout the enzymic hydrolysis of the colloidal chitin, indicating that the purified chitinase is an exo‐chitinase. Chito‐oligosaccharides [with degree of polymerization (DP) values of 4–6] are good substrates of the purified enzyme, whereas a DP3 oligomer was slowly hydrolysed to form DP1 and DP2 sugars. The first 15 N‐terminal amino acids of the enzyme were determined to be ANNLGSKLLVGYWHN, which is highly homologous to that of ChiA from Bacillus cereus. A PCR cloning technique was employed to obtain the corresponding gene from Bacillus NCTU2. The gene sequence was determined to be 1080 bp, encoding a polypeptide of 360 amino acids with the first 27 amino acids as the signal peptide.