bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Aerobic Training on Cardiovascular Function, Fitness, and Patient Reported Outcomes During Anthracycline Chemotherapy: A Case Series in Women With Breast Cancer
Authors: Murray James , Bennett Hunter , Selva-Nayagam Sudarsha , Joshi Rohit , Bezak Eva , Perry Rebecca
Published: November 2023

Background:

Chemotherapy for breast cancer can increase the risk of cancer therapy related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). Exercise has been proposed to prevent CTRCD, however, research to date has indicated high degrees of individual variability following exercise interventions in this population.

Aim:

This study aimed to explore the impact of regular, individualized aerobic exercise on CTRCD incidence (defined by global longitudinal strain [GLS]) during and immediately upon the completion of dose-dense anthracycline (DDAC) chemotherapy in 5 women with breast cancer.

Methods:

Five women receiving DDAC with stage I-III breast cancer enrolled. Participants underwent resting echocardiography and exercise testing before, during, upon the completion of, and 3 months after the completion of DDAC treatment to measure GLS and aerobic fitness (VO2peak). Participants opted-in to an individualized 8-week aerobic exercise intervention (3 sessions per week, 24 sessions total) or standard care for the duration of their DDAC treatment. Data for each participant were presented descriptively.

Results:

Four of the 5 participants completed the exercise intervention during DDAC treatment (adherence 79.2%-91.7%). Mild asymptomatic CTRCD occurred in 2 of the 4 exercising participants, of whom both were at an increased risk (one was >65 years of age and diagnosed with hypertension, with the other receiving trastuzumab prior to DDAC treatment). Varied responses in VO2peak were observed and did not align with changes in GLS. The only participant not to complete the exercise intervention reported poorer health related quality of life and increased cancer related fatigue at all measurement timepoints.

Conclusion:

This study details the individual variability in cardiovascular responses to exercise that can occur during DDAC treatment in women with breast cancer, which can inform exercise professionals and researchers when designing individualized exercise programs for this population.
Masson's Tumor as an Uncommon Cause of Neck Mass: A Case Presentation
Authors: M. Abdo Ehab , Farouk Nehal , E. Elshinawy Waleed , Mohamed Ahmed Eman , A. Raafat Mona , Husien Abdo Walaa , A. Abdel Wahab Maisa , E. Elimam Sameh , Alsagheer Alhewy Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Background

Masson’s tumor, commonly referred to as intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH), is an uncommon growth of endothelial cells within a vessel wall that is frequently assumed to indicate an abnormal resolution of thrombosis. IPEH is most typically found in the extremities however it is rare for IPEH to appear as a neck tumor. The issue with IPEH is that it could clinically, radiologically, and pathologically imitate some malignant neoplasms such as angiosarcomas creating a diagnostic challenge.

Case Report

We describe a 21-year-old male patient who presented with right anterolateral neck swelling for 12 months. Ultrasound revealed a 9.0 × 8.0 cm well-defined echogenic hyper-vascular lesion. The contrast computed tomography (CT) scan of the neck revealed an oval, well-defined subcutaneous mass, measuring 9 × 4.5 cm, situated over and separable from the right sternocleidomastoid muscle with no significant enhancement in the post-contract study. T1-weighted and T2-weighted MRI revealed a 10 × 9 × 7 cm well-defined subcutaneous lobulated lesion superficial to the sternocleidomastoid expanding upward to the Rt. side of the cheek and below to the suprasternal region, eliciting an intermediate signal in T1 and a heterogenous bright signal (mostly fluid) in T2 with low signal foci within the mass. The decision had been reached to entirely excise the lesion surgically with safety margins for histological evaluation. Histological examination indicated thrombosed variable-sized ectatic vascular spaces with papillary formations related to the thrombus, covered with a single layer of flat endothelium, and no features suggestive of malignancy. There was no recurrence at 18 months follow-up post-surgery.

Conclusion

Masson's tumor is a benign intravascular disease with an unclear origin and no confirmed inheritance pattern. Presentation of Masson’s tumor as a neck mass is incredibly uncommon. Masson's tumor lacks a distinct or distinguishing clinical and radiological appearance. Histopathologic examination is the sole definitive way for diagnosing the disease and the only tool for distinguishing it from angiosarcoma. Surgical excision is the best treatment for IPEH. Recurrence is extremely rare.
Case Series on Double-Barrel Stenting for the Renal Arteries Associated With Fenestrated Repair (FEVAR) of Complex Anatomy Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Gomes Vivian Carla , Parodi Federico Ezequiel , Ohana Elad , Farber Mark A.
Published: November 2023

The double-barrel stenting (DBS) is a technique in which 2 parallel stents are simultaneously deployed through the same reinforced fenestration, into 2 adjacent target vessels. Prior reports describe the application of this technique for the treatment of superior mesenteric artery dissection with aneurysmal degeneration, coronary artery bifurcations, aortic arch branches, and intracranial aneurysms. The DBS technique is particularly useful in the context of fenestrated repair (FEVAR) of complex anatomy aortic aneurysms when the origin of visceral arteries branch off the aorta very close to each other or present early branches. We herein describe a case series including 7 patients who underwent a FEVAR procedure for thoracoabdominal and juxtarenal aortic aneurysms in which the presence of accessory renal arteries (ARA) or early renal branches was the reason for the application of this technique. Technical success was 100% and all stents were patent in the last follow-up CT scan (follow-up range: 1.8-62.8 months). There was only 1 small endoleak from indetermined source potentially related to the DBS, but the aneurysm sac decreased in size during follow-up and no secondary intervention was needed. Therefore, the DBS technique is a viable option for the incorporation of ARA or early renal branches to a fenestrated repair of aortic aneurysms with complex anatomy.
“What’s She Doing Here?!”: Negotiating Gender Identity and Harassment in Gendered, Sexualized, and “Taboo” Research Spaces
Authors: Collins Victoria E. , Farrell Amanda L.
Published: November 2023

Scholarly inquiry into the experiences of women researchers engaged in ethnographic fieldwork is a growing area of study. While important to feminist criminology, most of the literature addressing this topic comes from sociology and anthropology. Drawing on qualitative ethnographic research in the United States, conducted in gendered, sexualized and “taboo” spaces, this study examines two women’s experiences. Findings indicate that women researchers engage in significant emotional work to not only gain access to these research sites and spaces, but they rely on several different techniques to mitigate potential harm to their person, including situating the experience outside of the research.
Modeling and analysis of transition-point disappearance in high-speed railway pantograph-catenary system
Authors: Chen Junqing , Liu Jidong , Guan Jinfa , Han Feng , Wu Jiqing , Chen Weirong
Published: November 2023

During the operation of high-speed railway, the transition-point disappearance phenomenon, which is caused by the deformation of pantograph head, poses a safety threat to the pantograph-catenary system. In this study, the analytical model for transition-point disappearance analysis is presented. The instantaneous profile, as well as the deformation process of the pantograph head under different contact force values and positions or different pantograph-head parameters can be solved using the model. Curve equation, force analysis, coordinate axis rotation, and few other methods are adopted to achieve simplified modeling. The proposed modeling method and analysis conclusion provide theoretical support for the permissible contact force range calculation and pantograph-head parameters optimization to prevent transition-point disappearance. The effectiveness of the proposed model is verified using both finite element simulation and experimental measurements. Finally, a case analysis for the prevention of transition-point disappearance is conducted, using pantographs with the models CX-GI and DSA250 as examples.
Reporting and impact of subsequent cycle toxicities in oncology phase I clinical trials
Authors: Rami Avina , DuBois Steven G , Campbell Kevin
Published: November 2023

Background/Aims

As oncology treatments evolve, classic assumptions of toxicity associated with cytotoxic agents may be less relevant, requiring new design strategies for trials intended to inform dosing strategies for agents that may be administered beyond a set number of defined cycles. We describe the overall incidence of dose-limiting toxicities during and after cycle 1, frequency of reporting subsequent cycle toxicities, and the impact of post-cycle 1 dose-limiting toxicities on conclusions drawn from oncology phase 1 clinical trials.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of subsequent cycle toxicities in oncology phase I clinical trials published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology from 2000 to 2020. We used chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression to describe predictors of reporting subsequent cycle toxicity data.

Results

From 2000 to 2020, we identified 489 articles reporting on therapeutic phase 1 clinical trials. Of these, 421 (86%) reported data regarding cycle 1 dose-limiting toxicities and 170 (35%) reported data on cycle 1 dose modifications. Of the trials that reported cycle 1 dose-limiting toxicities, the median percentage of patients that experienced cycle 1 dose-limiting toxicities was 8.89%. Only 47 (9.6%) publications reported on post-cycle 1 dose-limiting toxicities and only 92 (19%) reported on dose modifications beyond cycle 1. Of the trials that reported post-cycle 1 dose-limiting toxicities, the median percentage of patients that experienced post-cycle 1 dose-limiting toxicities was 14.8%. Among the 371 studies with a recommended phase 2 dose, 89% did not report whether post-cycle 1 toxicities impacted the recommended phase 2 dose. More recent year of publication was independently associated with reduced odds of reporting subsequent cycle toxicity.

Conclusion

Reporting of subsequent cycle toxicity is uncommon in oncology phase I clinical trial publications and becoming less common over time. Guidelines for reporting of phase I oncology clinical trials should expand to include toxicity data beyond the first cycle.
Leveraging the functionality of Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) to enhance data collection and quality in the Opioid Analgesic Reduction Study
Authors: Fredericks-Younger Janine , Greenberg Patricia , Andrews Tracy , Matheson Pamela B , Desjardins Paul J , Lu Shou-En , Feldman Cecile A
Published: November 2023

Background

The Opioid Analgesic Reduction Study is a double-blind, prospective, clinical trial investigating analgesic effectiveness in the management of acute post-surgical pain after impacted third molar extraction across five clinical sites. Specifically, Opioid Analgesic Reduction Study examines a commonly prescribed opioid combination (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) against a non-opioid combination (ibuprofen/acetaminophen). The Opioid Analgesic Reduction Study employs a novel, electronic infrastructure, leveraging the functionality of its data management system, Research Electronic Data Capture, to not only serve as its data reservoir but also provide the framework for its quality management program.

Methods

Within the Opioid Analgesic Reduction Study, Research Electronic Data Capture is expanded into a multi-function management tool, serving as the hub for its clinical data management, project management and credentialing, materials management, and quality management. Research Electronic Data Capture effectively captures data, displays/tracks study progress, triggers follow-up, and supports quality management processes.

Results

At 72% study completion, over 12,000 subject data forms have been executed in Research Electronic Data Capture with minimal missing (0.15%) or incomplete or erroneous forms (0.06%). Five hundred, twenty-three queries were initiated to request clarifications and/or address missing data and data discrepancies.

Conclusion

Research Electronic Data Capture is an effective digital health technology that can be maximized to contribute to the success of a clinical trial. The Research Electronic Data Capture infrastructure and enhanced functionality used in Opioid Analgesic Reduction Study provides the framework and the logic that ensures complete, accurate, data while guiding an effective, efficient workflow that can be followed by team members across sites. This enhanced data reliability and comprehensive quality management processes allow for better preparedness and readiness for clinical monitoring and regulatory reporting.
Effect Evaluation of Banana on Improving Hyperglycemia and Hypertension in Diabetic Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Lin Hui-Li , Tseng Yu-Hsiu , Yeh Chien-Chih , Chen Ya-Mei , Shen Kuo-Ping
Published: November 2023

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of dried and milled banana (BN) against streptozocin (STZ), nicotinamide (NA), and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced diabetes mellitus (DM) in 8-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs).

Methods

First, we analyzed the resistance starch contents, anti-oxidant compositions and activity, and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects of the BN. Then the DM animal model was performed. The SHRs were randomly divided into 3 groups. The control group was fed normal chow, the DM group was injected with STZ/NA and fed HFD, and the DM/BN group was injected with STZ/NA and fed HFD having the carbohydrate content replaced with BN.

Results

After 4 weeks, hyperglycemia and hypoinsulinemia occurred; moreover, HbA1c levels were higher and glucagon-like peptide 1 concentrations were lower, but blood pressure and heart rate did not worsen in the DM group. Related glucose metabolism and vasorelaxation proteins were disrupted by DM. However, in the DM/BN group, all of the above biochemical parameters were ameliorated by improving glucose homeostasis and clearly brought about improvements in blood pressure and heart rate as well.

Conclusion

Together, the functional compositions of banana may help to improve DM, hypertension, and related complications.
GC-MS Characterization, in Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Essential oil from the Leaves of Litsea balansae Lecomte
Authors: Ho Duc V. , Hoang Hanh N. T. , Nguyen Nguyen H. , Do Hang B. , Vo Hung Q. , Le Anh T. , Le Thang Q. , Pham Ty V.
Published: November 2023

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the essential oil obtained from Litsea balansae Lecomte leaves and investigate its potential as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent. Methods: Fresh L balansae leaves were collected in Quangtri, Vietnam, and subjected to hydro-distillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus to extract the essential oil. The essential oil composition was analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antioxidant capacity was evaluated through the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay, while the inhibition of nitric oxide production was assessed in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW264.7 cells. Results: GC-MS analysis identified 71 compounds, constituting 99.3% of the essential oil. Key constituents included carvacrol (20.8%), caryophyllene oxide (11.0%), cis-β-guaiene (6.4%), khusimone (3.9%), bicycloelemene (3.7%), and spathulenol (3.7%). The essential oil exhibited a moderate antioxidant effect (half maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50] = 208.37 ± 10.67 µg/mL) and significant anti-inflammatory activity (IC50 = 28.09 ± 1.53 µg/mL). Conclusion: The essential oil derived from L balansae leaves showcases potential as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, as indicated by its chemical composition and biological activities. These findings suggest promising avenues for further research in the development of therapeutic agents from natural sources.
Re-covering the Problems of Caste and Untouchability in U. R. Ananthamurthy’s Samskara
Authors: Prasad Manish
Published: November 2023

The problem of caste and the struggle of literary voices for a solution against casteism has been a topic of concern in Dalit Literature. U. R. Ananthamurthy is one among such writers who looks upon the caste division as a challenge against the rise of social inequality and through his works tries to critique such modern existentialist crisis based on caste and untouchability. It should be noted that being a member of the Navya Kavya movement, U. R. Ananthmurthy was under the impression of Ram Manohar Lohia and Mahatma Gandhi for their concern about the problem of caste and untouchability in the Post-independent Indian society. In a similar context, U. R. Ananthamurthy’s Samskara: A Rite for a Dead Man (1965) echoes the evil social practices based on caste and Brahminical hierarchy by presenting the existential and intellectual crisis of Pranesacharaya, the most learned Brahmin of Durvashapura village. Keeping due attention to the views of Gandhi and Lohia, the proposed article would like to explicate how far Ananthamurthy was influenced by the views of these socialists and to which level his method of presenting casteism in Samskara follows the criterion style of Munshi Premchand and Mulk Raj Anand who were also the disciple of Gandhian ideology about caste and untouchability. This article would also like to focus on how this discrimination in caste based on social superiority and inferiority has constructed an exploitative relationship between the Brahmins and other upper castes, and the untouchable; and how it functions and would finally lead to nothingness where everything would be at a terrible situation of destroying the very society itself.
Outcomes and characteristics of nonmelanoma skin cancers in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms on ruxolitinib
Authors: Rampotas Alex , Carter-Brzezinski Luke , Somervaille Tim C. P. , Forryan James , Panitsas Fotios , Harrison Claire , Witherall Ruth , Innes Andrew J. , Wallis Louise , Butt Naumann M. , Psaila Bethan , Mead Adam J. , Carter Matthew , Godfrey Anna L. , Laing Heather , Garg Mamta , Francis Sebastian , Ewing Joanne , Teh Chun Huat , Cowen Hannah Bibi , Dyer Peter , McConville Conall , Wadelin Frances , Sahra Ali , McGregor Andrew , Kulakov Elizabeth , McLornan Donal P. , Lambert Jonathan
Published: November 2023

Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) in ruxolitinib-treated patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms behave aggressively, with adverse features and high recurrence. In our cohort, mortality from metastatic NMSC exceeded that from myelofibrosis. Vigilant skin assessment, counseling on NMSC risks, and prospective ruxolitinib-NMSC studies are crucial.
G-Aligner: a graph-based feature alignment method for untargeted LC–MS-based metabolomics
Authors: Wang Ruimin , Lu Miaoshan , An Shaowei , Wang Jinyin , Yu Changbin
Published: November 2023

Background

Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry is widely used in untargeted metabolomics for composition profiling. In multi-run analysis scenarios, features of each run are aligned into consensus features by feature alignment algorithms to observe the intensity variations across runs. However, most of the existing feature alignment methods focus more on accurate retention time correction, while underestimating the importance of feature matching. None of the existing methods can comprehensively consider feature correspondences among all runs and achieve optimal matching.

Results

To comprehensively analyze feature correspondences among runs, we propose G-Aligner, a graph-based feature alignment method for untargeted LC–MS data. In the feature matching stage, G-Aligner treats features and potential correspondences as nodes and edges in a multipartite graph, considers the multi-run feature matching problem an unbalanced multidimensional assignment problem, and provides three combinatorial optimization algorithms to find optimal matching solutions. In comparison with the feature alignment methods in OpenMS, MZmine2 and XCMS on three public metabolomics benchmark datasets, G-Aligner achieved the best feature alignment performance on all the three datasets with up to 9.8% and 26.6% increase in accurately aligned features and analytes, and helped all comparison software obtain more accurate results on their self-extracted features by integrating G-Aligner to their analysis workflow. G-Aligner is open-source and freely available at https://github.com/CSi-Studio/G-Aligner under a permissive license. Benchmark datasets, manual annotation results, evaluation methods and results are available at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8313034

Conclusions

In this study, we proposed G-Aligner to improve feature matching accuracy for untargeted metabolomics LC–MS data. G-Aligner comprehensively considered potential feature correspondences between all runs, converting the feature matching problem as a multidimensional assignment problem (MAP). In evaluations on three public metabolomics benchmark datasets, G-Aligner achieved the highest alignment accuracy on manual annotated and popular software extracted features, proving the effectiveness and robustness of the algorithm.
Protein language models can capture protein quaternary state
Authors: Avraham Orly , Tsaban Tomer , Ben-Aharon Ziv , Tsaban Linoy , Schueler-Furman Ora
Published: November 2023

Background

Determining a protein’s quaternary state, i.e. the number of monomers in a functional unit, is a critical step in protein characterization. Many proteins form multimers for their activity, and over 50% are estimated to naturally form homomultimers. Experimental quaternary state determination can be challenging and require extensive work. To complement these efforts, a number of computational tools have been developed for quaternary state prediction, often utilizing experimentally validated structural information. Recently, dramatic advances have been made in the field of deep learning for predicting protein structure and other characteristics. Protein language models, such as ESM-2, that apply computational natural-language models to proteins successfully capture secondary structure, protein cell localization and other characteristics, from a single sequence. Here we hypothesize that information about the protein quaternary state may be contained within protein sequences as well, allowing us to benefit from these novel approaches in the context of quaternary state prediction.

Results

We generated ESM-2 embeddings for a large dataset of proteins with quaternary state labels from the curated QSbio dataset. We trained a model for quaternary state classification and assessed it on a non-overlapping set of distinct folds (ECOD family level). Our model, named QUEEN (QUaternary state prediction using dEEp learNing), performs worse than approaches that include information from solved crystal structures. However, it successfully learned to distinguish multimers from monomers, and predicts the specific quaternary state with moderate success, better than simple sequence similarity-based annotation transfer. Our results demonstrate that complex, quaternary state related information is included in such embeddings.

Conclusions

QUEEN is the first to investigate the power of embeddings for the prediction of the quaternary state of proteins. As such, it lays out strengths as well as limitations of a sequence-based protein language model approach, compared to structure-based approaches. Since it does not require any structural information and is fast, we anticipate that it will be of wide use both for in-depth investigation of specific systems, as well as for studies of large sets of protein sequences. A simple colab implementation is available at: https://colab.research.google.com/github/Furman-Lab/QUEEN/blob/main/QUEEN_prediction_notebook.ipynb.
Genetic diversity, linkage disequilibrium, and population structure of tetraploid wheat landraces originating from Europe and Asia
Authors: Rabieyan Ehsan , Darvishzadeh Reza , Mohammadi Reza , Gul Alvina , Rasheed Awais , Akhar Fatemeh Keykha , Abdi Hossein , Alipour Hadi
Published: November 2023

Background

Durum wheat is one of the most important crops, especially in the Mediterranean region. Insight into the genetic diversity of germplasm can improve the breeding program management in various traits. This study was done using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) markers to characterize the genetic distinctiveness and differentiation of tetraploid wheat landraces collected from nine European and Asian countries. A sum of 23,334 polymorphic SNPs was detected in 126 tetraploid wheat landraces in relation to the reference genome.

Results

The number of identified SNPs was 11,613 and 11,721 in A and B genomes, respectively. The highest and lowest diversity was on 6B and 6 A chromosomes, respectively. Structure analysis classified the landraces into two distinct subpopulations (K = 2). Evaluating the principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and weighted pair-group method using arithmetic averages (WPGMA) clustering results demonstrated that landraces (99.2%) are categorized into one of the two chief subpopulations. Therefore, the grouping pattern did not clearly show the presence of a clear pattern of relationships between genetic diversity and their geographical derivation. Part of this result could be due to the historical exchange between different germplasms. Although the result did not separate landraces based on their region of origin, the landraces collected from Iran were classified into the same group and cluster. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) also confirmed the results of population structure. Finally, Durum wheat landraces in some countries, including Turkey, Russia, Ukraine, and Afghanistan, were highly diverse, while others, including Iran and China, were low-diversity.

Conclusion

The recent study concluded that the 126 tetraploid wheat genotypes and their GBS-SNP markers are very appropriate for quantitative trait loci (QTLs) mapping and genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The core collection comprises two distinct subpopulations. Subpopulation II genotypes are the most diverse genotypes, and if they possess desired traits, they may be used in future breeding programs. The degree of diversity in the landraces of countries can provide the ground for the improvement of new cultivars with international cooperation. linkage disequilibrium (LD) hotspot distribution across the genome was investigated, which provides useful information about the genomic regions that contain intriguing genes.
The evolution of NLRC3 subfamily genes in Sebastidae teleost fishes
Authors: Gao Chengbin , Cai Xin , Lymbery Alan J. , Ma Le , Li Chao
Published: November 2023

Background

With more than 36,000 valid fish species, teleost fishes constitute the most species-rich vertebrate clade and exhibit extensive genetic and phenotypic variation, including diverse immune defense strategies. NLRC3 subfamily genes, which are specific to fishes, play vital roles in the immune system of teleosts. The evolution of teleosts has been impacted by several whole-genome duplication (WGD) events, which might be a key reason for the expansions of the NLRC3 subfamily, but detailed knowledge of NLRC3 subfamily evolution in the family Sebastidae is still limited.

Results

Phylogenetic inference of NLRC3 subfamily protein sequences were conducted to evaluate the orthology of NLRC3 subfamily genes in black rockfish (Sebastes schlegilii), 13 other fish species from the families Sebastidae, Serranidae, Gasterosteidae and Cyclopteridae, and three species of high vertebrates (bird, reptile and amphibian). WGD analyses were used to estimate expansions and contractions of the NLRC3 subfamily, and patterns of expression of NLRC3 subfamily genes in black rockfish following bacterial infections were used to investigate the functional roles of these genes in the traditional and mucosal immune system of the Sebastidae. Different patterns of gene expansions and contractions were observed in 17 fish and other species examined, and one and two whole-genome duplication events were observed in two members of family Sebastidae (black rockfish and honeycomb rockfish,Sebastes umbrosus), respectively. Subsequently, 179 copy numbers of NLRC3 genes were found in black rockfish and 166 in honeycomb rockfish. Phylogenetic analyses corroborated the conservation and evolution of NLRC3 orthologues between Sebastidae and other fish species. Finally, differential expression analyses provided evidence of the immune roles of NLRC3 genes in black rockfish during bacterial infections and gene ontology analysis also indicated other functional roles.

Conclusions

We hypothesize that NLRC3 genes have evolved a variety of different functions, in addition to their role in the immune response, as a result of whole genome duplication events during teleost diversification. Importantly, this study had underscored the importance of sampling across taxonomic groups, to better understand the evolutionary patterns of the innate immunity system on which complex immunological novelties arose. Moreover, the results in this study could extend current knowledge of the plasticity of the immune system.
Nano-silicone and Ascophyllum nodosum-based biostimulant down-regulates the negative effect of in vitro induced-salinity in Rosa damascena
Authors: Seyed Hajizadeh Hanifeh , Azizi Sahar , Aghaee Ahmad , Karakus Sinem , Kaya Ozkan
Published: November 2023

Background

Rosa damascena is extensively cultivated in various regions of Iran due to its aesthetic attributes, medicinal qualities, and essential oil production. This study investigated the efficacy of Ascophyllum nodosum extract (AnE) at concentrations of 0, 2, and 3 g L− 1 and Nano-silicon (nSiO2) at concentrations of 0, 50, and 100 mg L− 1 in ameliorating the impact of salinity on two genotypes of Damask rose (‘Chaharfasl’ and ‘Kashan’) under in vitro culture conditions. Additionally, various physio-chemical characteristics of R. damascena explants were assessed.

Results

The findings revealed that exposure to 100 mM NaCl resulted in a substantial reduction in the Relative Water Content (RWC), Membrane Stability Index (MSI), leaf pigments (Chlorophyll b, Chlorophyll a, total Chlorophyll, and carotenoids), chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and protein content in both genotypes when compared to control conditions. Salinity induced a significant increase in the parameter F0 and a decrease in the parameter Fv/Fm compared to the control conditions in both genotypes. Nonetheless, the genotype Kashan treated with 3 g L− 1 AnE + 100 mg L− 1 nSiO2 exhibited the maximum Fm value under control conditions, with a significant difference compared to other treatments. Furthermore, salinity caused a considerable reduction in Fm in both ‘Kashan’ and ‘Chaharfasl’ by 22% and 17%, respectively, when compared to the control condition. ‘Kashan’ displayed the maximum Fv/Fm compared to the other genotype. The maximum levels of Malondialdehyde (MAD) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were also observed in explants affected by salinity. The combination of 3 g L− 1 AnE + 100 mg L− 1 nSiO2, followed by 2 g L− 1 AnE + 100 mg L− 1 nSiO2, exhibited substantial positive effects. Salinity also led to an increase in proline content and the activity of peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), guaiacol peroxidase (GPX), and catalase (CAT) in both genotypes. The activity of these enzymes was further enhanced when AnE was applied at concentrations of 2 and 3 g L− 1 in combination with 100 mg L− 1 nSiO2.

Conclusions

The ‘Kashan’ genotype displayed greater tolerance to salinity by enhancing water balance, maintaining membrane integrity, and augmenting the activity of antioxidant enzymes compared to ‘Chaharfasl’. The utilization of nSiO2 and AnE biostimulants demonstrated potential benefits for R. damascena, both under salinity and control conditions. These findings hold substantial importance for researchers, policymakers, and farmers, offering valuable insights into the development of salinity-tolerant crop varieties.
How do older adults with multimorbidity navigate healthcare?: a qualitative study in Singapore
Authors: Lee Poay Sian Sabrina , Chew Evelyn Ai Ling , Koh Hui Li , Quak Stephanie Xin En , Ding Yew Yoong , Subramaniam Mythily , Vaingankar Janhavi Ajit , Lee Eng Sing
Published: November 2023

Background

Patients living with multimorbidity may require frequent visits to multiple healthcare institutions and to follow diverse medical regimens and advice. Older adults with multimorbidity could face additional challenges because of declining cognitive capability, frailty, increased complexity of diseases, as well as limited social and economic resources. Research on how this population navigates the healthcare system in Singapore also remains unknown. This study investigates the challenges older adults with multimorbidity face in navigating healthcare in Singapore.

Methods

Twenty older adults with multimorbidity from a public primary care setting were purposively sampled. Interviews conducted inquired into their experiences of navigating the healthcare system with multiple conditions. Inductive thematic analysis was performed by independent coders who resolved differences through discussion.

Results

Older adults with multimorbidity form a population with specific characteristics and challenges. Their ability to navigate the healthcare system well was influenced by these themes including patient-related factors (autonomy and physical mobility, literacy and technological literacy, social support network), healthcare system-related factors (communication and personal rapport, fragmented system, healthcare staff as advocate) and strategies for navigation (fitting in, asking for help, negotiating to achieve goals, managing the logistics of multimorbidity).

Discussion

Older adults with multimorbidity should not be treated as a homogenous group but can be stratified according to those with less serious or disruptive conditions (less burden of illness and burden of treatment) and those with more severe conditions (more burden of illness and burden of treatment). Among the latter, some became navigational experts while others struggled to obtain the resources needed. The variations of navigational experiences of the healthcare system show the need for further study of the differential needs of older adults with multimorbidity. To be truly patient-centred, healthcare providers should consider factors such as the existence of family support networks, literacy, technological literacy and the age-related challenges older adults face as they interact with the healthcare system, as well as finding ways to improve healthcare systems through personal rapport and strategies for reducing unnecessary burden of treatment for patients with multimorbidity.
Psychosocial factors associated with medication burden among community-dwelling older people with multimorbidity
Authors: Yang Chen , Zhu Song , Hui Zhaozhao , Mo Yihan
Published: November 2023

Background

Older people with multimorbidity are often prescribed multiple medication treatments, leading to difficulties in self-managing their medications and negative experiences in medication use. The perceived burden arising from the process of undertaking medication self-management practices has been described as medication burden. Preliminary evidence has suggested that patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics may impact their medication burden. Little is known regarding how psychosocial factors affect medication burden in older people with multimorbidity. The aim of this study was to identify psychosocial factors associated with medication burden among community-dwelling older people with multimorbidity.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional study. A total of 254 older people with three or more chronic conditions were included in the analysis. Participants were assessed for demographics, medication burden, psychosocial variables (depression, medication-related knowledge, beliefs, social support, self-efficacy, and satisfaction), disease burden, and polypharmacy. Medication burden was measured using items from the Treatment Burden Questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate linear regression models explored factors associated with medication burden.

Results

The mean age of participants was 70.90 years. Participants had an average of 4.40 chronic conditions, and over one-third had polypharmacy. Multivariate analysis showed that the participants’ satisfaction with medication treatments (β = -0.32, p < 0.001), disease burden (β = 0.25, p = 0.009), medication self-efficacy (β = -0.21, p < 0.001), polypharmacy (β = 0.15, p = 0.016), and depression (β = 0.14, p = 0.016) were independently associated with medication burden. Other factors, including demographic characteristics, medication knowledge, medication beliefs, medication social support, and the number or specific types of chronic conditions, were not independently associated with medication burden.

Conclusions

Poor medication treatment satisfaction, great disease burden, low medication self-efficacy, polypharmacy, and depression may increase individuals’ medication burden. Understanding psychosocial aspects associated with medication burden provides an important perspective for identifying older people who are overburdened by their medication treatments and offering individualised treatments to relieve their burden.
Correlation and influencing factors analysis of colorectal polyps with Helicobacter pylori Infection and p-S6K1 expression
Authors: Jia Zeming , Wan Xiaoping
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate the correlation between colorectal polyps (CRP) andHelicobacter pylori (H. pylori)infection, and the correlation between CRP and the expression of phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p-S6K1). Besides, its related influencing factors were determined in the present study.

Methods

A total of 191 subjects who underwent colonoscopy in our hospital from January 2020 to February 2022 were selected for this study. Among them, 141 patients were diagnosed with CRP, and the other 50 subjects were no significant colorectal abnormalities. 141 CRP patients were divided intoH. pylori-positive group (n = 89) andH. pylori-negative group (n = 52) according to the results of theH. pyloritest. The expression of p-S6K1 in CRP tissue was detected. The relationship between the p-S6K1 expression and the clinicopathological characteristics of CRP patients was analyzed. The logistic analysis of factors influencing the occurrence of CRP was performed.

Results

There were significant differences in pathological type, site of disease, the number and size of polyps between theH. pylorinegative group and theH. pyloripositive group (P < 0.001,P = 0.037,P = 0.042 andP = 0.039). The percentage of the p-S6K1 positive expression in polyp tissues was higher than that in normal tissue and parapolyp tissues (P < 0.001). The p-S6K1 negative group showed significant difference in the number and pathological type of polyps and the presence or absence of a pedicle as compared with the p-S6K1 positive group (P = 0.006,P < 0.001 andP = 0.012). Logistic multifactor analysis showed that BMI,H. pyloriinfection, smoking history, ApoB, Lp(a) and the p-S6K1 positive expression were all risk factors for the development of CRP (P = 0.025,P = 0.020,P = 0.010,P = 0.005,P = 0.043 andP < 0.001).

Conclusion

H. pyloriinfection was closely related to the pathological type, location, and the number and size of CRP. p-S6K1 was highly expressed in CRP, and was positively related to the number, the pathological type and pedicle of polyps.H. pyloriinfection and the positive p-S6K1 expression were independent risk factors for CRP. By exploring the association betweenH. pyloriinfection as well as p-S6K1 and CRP, it is hoped that it will help to formulate a more rigorous colorectal cancer screening program forH. pylori-positive individuals, and at the same time find a new direction for the prevention of CRP and colorectal cancer, and provide some help for future research.
ABO and Rh blood groups and risk of infection: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Butler Emily Ana , Parikh Rushil , Grandi Sonia M. , Ray Joel G. , Cohen Eyal
Published: November 2023

Background

Persons with non-O and Rh-positive blood types are purported to be more susceptible to infection, including SARS-CoV-2, but there remains uncertainty about the degree to which this is so for both non-viral and viral infections.

Methods

We systematically reviewed Embase and PubMed from January 1st 1960 to May 31st 2022. English-language publications were selected that separately investigated the relation between ABO and/or Rh blood group and risk of SARS-CoV-2 and non-SARS-CoV-2 infection. Pooled odds ratios (ORp) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were then generated for each.

Results

Non-O blood groups had a higher ORp for SARS-CoV-2 than O blood groups, both within 22 case–control studies (2.13, 95% CI 1.49- 3.04) and 15 cohort studies (1.89, 95% CI 1.56- 2.29). For non-SARS-CoV-2 viral infections, the respective ORp were 1.98 (95% CI 1.49–2.65; 4 case–control studies) and 1.87 (95% CI 1.53–2.29; 12 cohort studies). For non-viral infections, the ORp were 1.56 (95% CI 0.98–2.46; 13 case–control studies) and 2.11 (95% CI 1.67–6.67; 4 cohort studies). Rh-positive status had a higher ORp for SARS-CoV-2 infection within 6 case–control studies (13.83, 95% CI 6.18–30.96) and 6 cohort studies (19.04, 95% CI 11.63–31.17), compared to Rh-negative persons. For Rh status, non-SARS-CoV-2 infections, the ORp were 23.45 (95% CI 16.28–33.76) among 7 case–control studies, and 9.25 (95% CI 2.72–31.48) within 4 cohort studies. High measures of heterogeneity were notably observed for all analyses.

Conclusions

Non-O and Rh-positive blood status are each associated with a higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, in addition to other viral and non-viral infections.
Psychological distress in pregnancy and postpartum: a cross-sectional study of Babol pregnancy mental health registry
Authors: Barat Shahnaz , Ghanbarpour Azita , Mirtabar Seyyedeh Mahboubeh , Kheirkhah Farzan , Basirat Zahra , Shirafkan Hoda , Hamidia Angela , Khorshidian Faezeh , Hosseini Talari Davood , Pahlavan Zeynab , Esmaelzadeh Sedigheh , Buzari Zinatosadat , Zeynalzadeh Mahtab , Charati Shahla Yazdani , Shafizade Fatemeh , Adnani Mahsima , Amirkhanloo Fatemeh , Mollaalipour Maedeh , kani Atieh Chale , Amiri Mania , Khazaei Razieh , Mehdinia Seyedeh Shabnam , Basirat Fatemeh , Asadollahi Simin , Khodami Asieh , Azizi Alireza , Nasiri-Amiri Fatemeh , Fatery Nooshin , Shahrokhi Shirin , Zarinkamar Banafshe , Aligoltabar Sajedeh , Faramarzi Mahbobeh
Published: November 2023

Background

Psychological distress (PD) is a significant issue during pregnancy and postpartum, adversely affecting both children and mothers. This study aims to determine PD's prevalence and risk factors in a large Iranian population sample during pregnancy and postpartum.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Babol Pregnancy Mental Health Registry (located in the north of Iran) between June 2020 and March 2021. A total of 2305 women were included, with 1639 during pregnancy and 666 during postpartum. Psychological distress was assessed using the Brief Symptoms Inventory (BSI-18), and data were analyzed using independent t-tests and multiple logistic regressions.

Results

The prevalence of psychological distress, defined by a cut-off score of BSI ≥ 13, was 19% during pregnancy and 15% during postpartum. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that high-risk pregnancy was the leading risk factor for psychological distress during the antenatal period (β = 1.776, P < 0.001), as well as its three subscales: somatization (β = 1.355, P = 0.019), anxiety symptoms (β = 2.249, P < 0.001), and depressive symptoms (β = 1.381, P = 0.028). Additionally, women with a gestational age < 20 weeks had a higher risk of psychological distress (β = 1.344, P = 0.038) and the somatization subscale (β = 1.641, P < 0.001). During the postpartum period, women residing in urban areas were at higher risk of psychological distress (β = 1.949, P = 0.012), as well as two subscales: anxiety symptoms (β = 1.998, P = 0.012) and depressive symptoms (β = 1.949, P = 0.020).

Conclusion

The high prevalence of psychological distress emphasizes detecting and treating PD during pregnancy and postpartum, particularly in women with high-risk pregnancies. This study suggests that obstetricians and midwives should implement programs to identify women experiencing psychological distress during early pregnancy through postpartum visits.
Physical therapy intervention for breast symptoms in lactating women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lin Kuan-Yin , Shao Wei , Tsai Yi-Ju , Yang Jeng-Feng , Wu Meng-Hsing
Published: November 2023

Background

Therapeutic ultrasound, education, and massage are the most common physical therapy interventions provided to mothers with breast symptoms. However, there is insufficient evidence on the effectiveness of the combination of these interventions. This study aimed to explore the effects of the combination of therapeutic ultrasound, education, and massage on breast symptoms in lactating women.

Methods

This study was a single-blind randomized controlled trial. Postpartum lactating women aged from 21 to 45 with breast symptoms were recruited and randomly allocated to one of three groups (ultrasound group, sham group, and usual care group). The severity of breast symptoms (pain, redness, lump, general malaise), breast engorgement, breast hardness, body temperature, breast temperature, and milk volume were assessed at baseline (T1), immediately post-intervention (T2), and at 3 months following baseline (T3).

Results

A total of 37 participants were included in the study (ultrasound group n = 12; sham group n = 12; usual care n = 13). The severity of breast symptoms (i.e., pain, lump, and general malaise) as well as breast engorgement, were significantly improved in the ultrasound group at T2 when compared to T1, and these improvements were sustained at T3. The severity of breast engorgement was significantly lower in the ultrasound group when compared to the usual care group at T2. However, no statistically significant differences were found between the ultrasound and sham groups for all outcomes at any assessment time points.

Conclusions

Physical therapy interventions may be beneficial in relieving breast symptoms in lactating women. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the findings of this study.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04569136); Date of registration: 29/09/2020.