bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulin secretory actions of polyphenols of Momordica charantia regulate glucose homeostasis in alloxan-induced type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Ansari Prawej , Khan Joyeeta T , Soultana Mousume , Hunter Lauren , Chowdhury Suraiya , Priyanka Suriya K , Paul Saikat R , Flatt Peter R , Abdel-Wahab Yasser H A
Published: February 2024

Objective

Momordica charantia, commonly known as bitter gourd, is traditionally used as remedies for various diseases including diabetes. The main objective of this study is to investigate the in vitro and in vivo insulinotropic and antidiabetic effects of an 80% ethanolic extract of M. charantia (EEMC) fruit, as well as the underlying molecular mechanism involved and preliminary phytochemical screening.

Methods

The insulin secretion was measured using clonal pancreatic BRIN-BD11 β-cells and isolated mouse islets. The ability of EEMC to inhibit carbohydrate digestive enzymes and glucose absorption and to scavenge free radicals was assessed via starch digestion, glucose diffusion, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay methods. The effects of EEMC on a variety of metabolic parameters were evaluated in alloxan-induced type 2 diabetic rats, including lipid profile. Finally, a preliminary phytochemical screening was conducted to identify the active phytoconstituents.

Key findings

EEMC increased insulin release through the KATP-dependent/cyclic adenosine monophosphate pathway, which depolarizes the β-cell membrane and elevates intracellular calcium. It also inhibited glucose absorption and free radicals, suggesting its potential to delay gastric emptying, attenuate oxidative stress, and reduce inflammatory cytokines. In vivo studies showed that EEMC improves oral glucose tolerance, food intake, fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin, and lipids and promotes intestinal motility. The active phytoconstituents in EEMC, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, steroids, and glycosides, are likely responsible for these effects.

Conclusion

The antihyperglycemic properties of EEMC indicate that it might be a promising candidate for diabetes management. However, additional study into the application of M. charantia in type 2 diabetes is essential.
Psychopathic callousness and perspective taking in pain processing: an ERP study
Authors: Branchadell Victoria , Poy Rosario , Ribes-Guardiola Pablo , Segarra Pilar , Moltó Javier
Published: February 2024

Psychopathy is a multifaceted personality disorder characterized by distinct affective/interpersonal traits, including callousness–unemotionality/meanness, which are often considered the hallmarks of empathic deficits. It has been posited that the processing of others’ pain could play an important role in empathy capabilities. This study aimed to investigate the influence of perspective taking on electrocortical responses during pain processing in relation to psychopathic callousness. The late positive potential (LPP) —a well-established electrophysiological indicator of sustained attention to motivationally significant stimuli— was measured while 100 female undergraduates viewed images depicting bodily injuries while adopting an imagine–self or an imagine–other perspective. Callousness factor scores —computed as regression-based component scores from EFA on three relevant self-report measures of this dimension— predicted reduced LPP amplitudes to pain pictures under the imagine–other (but not imagine–self) perspective, even after controlling for other LPP conditions. This result suggests that high-callous individuals exhibit diminished brain responsiveness to others’ distress, potentially contributing to the empathic deficits observed in psychopathy. This finding highlights the usefulness of the LPP and perspective taking in studies on pain processing to refine our understanding of the low empathy characteristics of psychopathy in biobehavioral terms.
Changes in electroencephalographic microstates between evening and morning are associated with overnight sleep slow waves in healthy individuals
Authors: Keihani Ahmadreza , Mayeli Ahmad , Donati Francesco , Janssen Sabine A , Huston Chloe A , Colacot Rebekah M , Al Zoubi Obada , Murphy Michael , Ferrarelli Fabio
Published: February 2024

Study Objectives

Microstates are semi-stable voltage topographies that account for most of electroencephalogram (EEG) variance. However, the impact of time of the day and sleep on microstates has not been examined. To address this gap, we assessed whether microstates differed between the evening and morning and whether sleep slow waves correlated with microstate changes in healthy participants.

Methods

Forty-five healthy participants were recruited. Each participant underwent 6 minutes of resting state EEG recordings in the evening and morning, interleaved by sleep EEGs. Evening-to-morning changes in microstate duration, coverage, and occurrence were assessed. Furthermore, correlation between microstate changes and sleep slow-wave activity (SWA) and slow-wave density (SWD) were performed.

Results

Two-way ANOVAs with microstate class (A, B, C, and D) and time (evening and morning) revealed significant microstate class × time interaction for duration (F(44) = 5.571, p = 0.002), coverage (F(44) = 6.833, p = 0.001), and occurrence (F(44) = 5.715, p = 0.002). Post hoc comparisons showed significant effects for microstate C duration (padj = 0.048, Cohen’s d = −0.389), coverage (padj = 0.002, Cohen’s d = −0.580), and occurrence (padj = 0.002, Cohen’s d = -0.606). Topographic analyses revealed inverse correlations between SWD, but not SWA, and evening-to-morning changes in microstate C duration (r = −0.51, padj = 0.002), coverage (r = −0.45, padj = 0.006), and occurrence (r = −0.38, padj = 0.033).

Conclusions

Microstate characteristics showed significant evening-to-morning changes associated with, and possibly regulated by, sleep slow waves. These findings suggest that future microstate studies should control for time of day and sleep effects.
Recent Progress in Photoreceptor Cell-Based Therapy for Degenerative Retinal Disease
Authors: Klymenko Valeriia , González Martínez Orlando G , Zarbin Marco A
Published: February 2024

Age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa are degenerative retinal diseases that cause severe vision loss. Early clinical trials involving transplantation of photoreceptors as treatment for these conditions are underway. In this review, we summarize recent progress in the field of photoreceptor transplantation, including some pertinent results regarding photoreceptor manufacture, photoreceptor transplantation, mechanisms of donor–host cell integration such as material transfer and photoreceptor transplant immunology. We conclude by proposing several approaches that may provide a rational basis for selecting a vision restoration strategy (eg, donor–host synapse formation vs donor–host nanotube formation) and improved transplant efficiency.
Osteology and phylogenetic position of Plagiosaurus depressus (Temnospondyli: Plagiosauridae) from the Late Triassic of Germany and the repeated loss of dermal bones in plagiosaurids
Authors: Witzmann Florian , Schoch Rainer R
Published: February 2024

The skull and postcranium of the Late Triassic plagiosaurid temnospondyl Plagiosaurus depressus from Halberstadt (Germany) are redescribed in detail. Plagiosaurus possesses two autapomorphies, the abbreviated tabular and the broad contact between the postorbital and parietal. A comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of Plagiosauridae finds a clade Plagiosaurinae consisting of Plagiosaurus and Gerrothorax. Among other characters, both taxa share the solid box-like sides of the low pectoral girdle, the short but robust humerus with small deltopectoral crest and well-developed supinator process, and an anterodorsally directed lateral line sulcus close to the mandibular symphysis. Compared with Gerrothorax, the skull of Plagiosaurus is deeper and more slender, and the postfrontal is absent, meaning that the parietal forms the posteromedial margin of the enlarged orbit. This new interpretation of the bone configuration shows that reduction of circumorbital bones associated with orbital enlargement occurred three times independently within Plagiosauridae, albeit probably in different functional contexts. Our phylogenetic analysis further reveals the Plagiosuchinae (Plagioscutum + Plagiosuchus) as the most basal plagiosaurid clade, which, in turn, forms the sister group to Plagiosaurinae and Plagiosterninae (Plagiorophus + (Plagiosternum + Megalophthalma)). The mentioned shared derived characters of Plagiosaurinae in the pectoral girdle, forelimbs, and mandibular lateral lines suggest a similar benthonic lifestyle.
Conceptualizing Professional Identity Formation in Medicine
Authors: Sarraf-Yazdi Shiva , Goh Suzanne , Krishna Lalit
Published: February 2024

The What

Professional Identity Formation (PIF) in medicine is the gradual transformation that occurs in the process of becoming a doctor, as professional values, beliefs, behaviors, relationships, roles, and responsibilities become integrated into an aggregate of existing identities.1 Conceptually, this process may be considered as a trajectory of self-perceived identities that transpires between an individual’s existing identity and an evolving, aspirational identity toward which the individual may strive.2 This process is individualized, yet contextual, psychosocially grounded, and subject to lifelong deconstruction and reconstruction depending on how the person experiences, and thus responds to, events.2

The So What

Faced with key transitions, conflicts, or crises, a medical student or physician may experience dissonance between their personal values and beliefs and their professional roles and expectations.1 If left unsupported (see light blue lines in graph below), this can challenge their sense of belonging or meaning, lower self-esteem or self-efficacy, or breed distress, burnout, or attrition. When recognized and supported (see dark blue line below), defining experiences can enhance tolerance for ambiguity, enable meaning-making, foster socialization into communities of learning or practice, and deepen enculturation and commitment to the profession.2

The What Now

PIF is implicitly a fundamental goal of medical education, necessitating institutional support along the medical education continuum.1-3
Teaching and Assessing Bedside Procedures: A Standardized Cross-Disciplinary Framework for Graduate Medical Education
Authors: Vohra Taher T. , Kinni Harish , Gardner-Gray Jayna , Giles Christopher D. , Hamam Mohamed S. , Folt Jason R. ,   the Henry Ford Hospital Bedside Procedure Task Force
Published: February 2024

Performing bedside procedures requires knowledge, reasoning, physical adeptness, and self-confidence; however, no consensus on a specific, comprehensive strategy for bedside procedure training and implementation is available. Bedside procedure training and credentialing processes across large institutions may vary among departments and specialties, leading to variable standards, creating an environment that lacks consistent accountability, and making quality improvement difficult. In this Scholarly Perspective, the authors describe a standardized bedside procedure training and certification process for graduate medical education with a common, institution-wide educational framework for teaching and assessing the following 7 important bedside procedures: paracentesis; thoracentesis; central venous catheterization; arterial catheterization; bladder catheterization or Foley catheterization; lumbar puncture; and nasogastric, orogastric, and nasoenteric tube placement. The proposed framework is a 4-stage process that includes 1 preparatory learning stage with simulation practice for knowledge acquisition and 3 clinical stages to guide learners from low-risk to high-risk practice and from high to low supervision. The pilot rollout took place at Henry Ford Hospital from December 2020 to July 2021 for 165 residents in the emergency medicine and/or internal medicine residency programs. The program was fully implemented institution-wide in July 2021. Assessment strategies encompass critical action checklists to confirm procedural understanding and a global rating scale to measure performance quality. A major aim of the bedside procedure training and certification was to standardize assessments so that physician trainers from multiple specialties could train, assess, and supervise any participating trainee, regardless of discipline. The authors list considerations revealed from the pilot rollout regarding electronic tracking systems and several benefits and implementation challenges to establishing institution-wide standards. The proposed framework was assembled by a multidisciplinary physician task force and will assist other institutions in adopting best approaches for training physicians in performing these critically important and difficult-to-perform procedures.
A Role for Thyroid Testing in Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis? 32% Rate of Abnormal Values in Tested Patients
Authors: Nielsen Ena , Leiby Braeden , Blumberg Todd J.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Hypothyroidism is a known risk factor for slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), and prior studies of hypothyroid-associated SCFE have demonstrated an incidence of up to 6%. However, there is limited evidence and no formal practice guidelines regarding whether patients presenting with SCFE should undergo screening for endocrine disorders. This study aims to investigate the incidence of abnormal thyroid function studies in patients presenting with SCFE.

Methods:

This was a retrospective review of all patients aged 0 to 18 years treated for SCFE at a single pediatric hospital from January 2015 to July 2022. On presentation, patients’ BMI, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4, vitamin D, creatinine, BUN, and HbA1c levels were documented. Follow-up and treatment for any identified endocrinopathies were noted. In addition, the chronicity, stability, and severity of their slips were recorded.

Results:

Ninety-eight patients with 106 hips were included in this study. TSH was obtained at the time of initial presentation in 66% (n=65/98) of patients. Median TSH was 2.99 (range: 0.02 to 919, std dev: 132.4). The normal reference range for our institution is 0.5 to 4.5 mcIU/mL. Thirty-two percent (n=21/65) of patients with a documented TSH had an abnormal value. Of those patients who had an elevated TSH, 3 were diagnosed with clinical hypothyroidism and went on to treatment with levothyroxine (n=3/19, 16%), 2 patients had been started on levothyroxine before presentation (n=2/19, 11%), and 2 patients were followed in endocrinology clinic until their TSH levels had normalized without further intervention (n=2/19, 11%).

Conclusions:

Screening of our SCFE population revealed a 32% incidence of thyroid abnormalities which affected treatment in 24% of those patients. This is a much higher incidence of hypothyroid-associated SCFE than previously demonstrated in the literature and has prompted us to start including thyroid screening studies as a routine part of our workup for all patients with SCFE.

Level of evidence:

Level III.
Does Systemic Metformin Have a Role in Treating Melasma?
Authors: Ismail Sahar A. , Mohamed Ghada A. , Mohamedeen Karima N. , Sotohy Rehab S.A. , Bakr Radwa M.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Melasma is a common pigmentary condition that affects the patients' quality of life and all the prescribed treatment options till now are not satisfactory, especially in dark-skinned patients.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of systemic metformin (1,000 mg and 500 mg) combined with trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peeling versus TCA alone in the treatment of melasma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 60 melasma patients divided into 3 groups: Group A received systemic metformin (1000 mg/d), Group B received systemic metformin (500 mg/d) and Group C received placebo. The 3 treatment groups were treated by TCA 25% over the whole face bimonthly for a total of 6 sessions. Melasma area and severity index (MASI), and Melasma impact Quality of life Scale (MELASQOL) were used to assess the outcome.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant decrease in the MASI, and the MELASQOL in the 3 studied groups after treatment with significantly better improvement in Group (A) than Group (C) (p = .045).

CONCLUSION

Systemic metformin is a safe and promising therapeutic option for treating melasma.
Reproductive Decision Making of Spanish Women Living With HIV: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Huertas-Zurriaga Ariadna , Alonso-Fernández Sergio , Leyva-Moral Juan M.
Published: February 2024

The process of reproductive decision making among women living with HIV is intricate and multifaceted, influenced by health considerations, societal factors, and personal values. In this study, we employed Charmaz's Constructivist Grounded Theory to understand how Spanish women living with HIV make decisions regarding reproduction. We conducted 26 face-to-face interviews until data saturation was achieved. Findings suggested that social constructs such as femininity and motherhood play a significant role in the reproductive decision-making process for women living with HIV. The women's beliefs about HIV, doubts, marginalizing situations, and health barriers create challenges to making reproductive decisions. These findings provide valuable implications for designing care plans that meet the unique sexual and reproductive health needs of women with HIV. An integrated and comprehensive multidisciplinary counseling approach is necessary to improve the quality of care.
Implementing a Critical Thinking Tool to Evaluate Educational Needs for Inpatient Rehabilitation Nurses
Authors: Hill Cynthia , Stutzman Sonja E. , Nairon Emerson B. , Vashisht Ayushi , Olson DaiWai M.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: Most critical thinking assessment tools are resource intensive and require significant time and money to administer. Moreover, these tools are not tailored to evaluate critical thinking skills among inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) nurses. This pilot study explores the efficacy of using short videos to evaluate critical thinking for nurses working in an IRF. METHODS: We developed and filmed 3 clinical scenarios representative of common IRF events that require critical thinking on behalf of the nurse. Thirty-one IRF nurses participated in the study and independently scored their own critical thinking skills using a visual analog scale. Using the same scale, nurse managers and assistant managers who worked closely with the nurses also rated the critical thinking ability of each nurse. The nurse then viewed and responded in narrative form to each of the 3 videos. A scoring rubric was used to independently evaluate the critical thinking skills for each nurse based on the nurses' responses. RESULTS: Nurses rated their own critical thinking skills higher than mangers rated them (m = 85.23 vs 62.89). There was high interrater reliability for scoring video 1k (0.65), video 2k (0.90), and video 3k (0.84). CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate efficacy for further study of low-cost alternatives to evaluate critical thinking among neuroscience nurses providing IRF care.
Association between fecal short-chain fatty acid levels and constipation severity in subjects with slow transit constipation
Authors: Chen Qi , Chen Die , Gao Xiangyue , Jiang Ya , Yu Ting , Jiang Liuqin , Tang Yurong
Published: February 2024

Objective

We measured the fecal levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in subjects with slow transit constipation (STC) and assessed the correlation between SCFA levels and disease severity as well as quality of life.

Methods

We isolated the supernatant from fecal samples of healthy and STC subjects and measured the SCFA levels. To assess the correlation between fecal SCFA levels and disease severity as well as quality of life, we used the Constipation Scoring System, Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms, and Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaires.

Results

16 STC subjects and 16 healthy controls were enrolled. STC subjects had lower SCFA levels, but the difference was not statistically significant (475.85 ± 251.68 vs. 639.77 ± 213.97 µg/ml, P = 0.056). Additionally, STC subjects had lower acetic and propionic acid levels (149.06 ± 88.54 vs. 261.33 ± 109.75 µg/ml and 100.60 ± 60.62 vs. 157.34 ± 66.37 µg/ml, respectively, P < 0.05) and higher isobutyric and isovaleric acid levels (27.21 ± 15.06 vs. 18.16 ± 8.65 µg/ml and 31.78 ± 18.81 vs. 16.90 ± 10.05 µg/ml, respectively, P < 0.05). At 252.21 µg/ml acetic acid, the specificity and sensitivity to distinguish healthy from STC subjects were 93.7% and 56.3%, respectively. In STC subjects, there were significant negative correlations between acetic and propionic acid levels and Constipation Scoring System scores.

Conclusion

Fecal SCFA, acetic acid, and propionic acid levels decreased in STC subjects. There were significant negative correlations between the levels of the two acids and constipation severity.
Developmental regulation of primitive erythropoiesis
Authors: Rossmann Marlies P. , Palis James
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review

In this review, we present an overview of recent studies of primitive erythropoiesis, focusing on advances in deciphering its embryonic origin, defining species-specific differences in its developmental regulation, and better understanding the molecular and metabolic pathways involved in terminal differentiation.

Recent findings

Single-cell transcriptomics combined with state-of-the-art lineage tracing approaches in unperturbed murine embryos have yielded new insights concerning the origin of the first (primitive) erythroid cells that arise from mesoderm-derived progenitors. Moreover, studies examining primitive erythropoiesis in rare early human embryo samples reveal an overall conservation of primitive erythroid ontogeny in mammals, albeit with some interesting differences such as localization of erythropoietin (EPO) production in the early embryo. Mechanistically, the repertoire of transcription factors that critically regulate primitive erythropoiesis has been expanded to include regulators of transcription elongation, as well as epigenetic modifiers such as the histone methyltransferase DOT1L. For the latter, noncanonical roles aside from enzymatic activity are being uncovered. Lastly, detailed surveys of the metabolic and proteomic landscape of primitive erythroid precursors reveal the activation of key metabolic pathways such as pentose phosphate pathway that are paralleled by a striking loss of mRNA translation machinery.

The ability to interrogate single cells in vivo continues to yield new insights into the birth of the first essential organ system of the developing embryo. A comparison of the regulation of primitive and definitive erythropoiesis, as well as the interplay of the different layers of regulation – transcriptional, epigenetic, and metabolic – will be critical in achieving the goal of faithfully generating erythroid cells in vitro for therapeutic purposes.
Liquid Biopsy for Pancreatic Cancer by Serum Extracellular Vesicle–Encapsulated Long Noncoding RNA HEVEPA
Authors: Takahashi Kenji , Inuzuka Tatsutoshi , Shimizu Yuta , Sawamoto Kazuki , Taniue Kenzui , Ono Yusuke , Asai Fumi , Koyama Kazuya , Sato Hiroki , Kawabata Hidemasa , Iwamoto Hidetaka , Yamakita Keisuke , Kitano Yohei , Teramoto Takashi , Fujiya Mikihiro , Fujii Satoshi , Mizukami Yusuke , Okumura Toshikatsu
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain unclear. Extracellular vesicle (EV)–encapsulated RNAs could be effective targets for liquid biopsy. We aimed to identify previously unknown EV-encapsulated lncRNAs in PDAC and establish highly accurate methods for isolating EVs.

Materials and Methods

Extracellular vesicles were isolated using existing and newly developed methods, namely, PEViA-UC and PEViA-IP, from serum samples of 20 patients with PDAC, 22 patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, and 21 healthy individuals. Extracellular vesicle lncRNA expression was analyzed using digital PCR.

Results

Gene expression analysis using cDNA microarray revealed a highly expressed lncRNA, HEVEPA, in serum EVs from patients with PDAC. We established PEViA-UC and PEViA-IP using PEViA reagent, ultracentrifugation, and immunoprecipitation. Although detection of EV-encapsulated HEVEPA using existing methods is challenging, PEViA-UC and PEViA-IP detected EV HEVEPA, which was highly expressed in patients with PDAC compared with non-PDAC patients. The detection sensitivity for discriminating PDAC from non-PDAC using the combination of HEVEPA and HULC, which are highly expressed lncRNAs in PDAC, and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), was higher than that of HEVEPA, HULC, or CA19-9 alone.

Conclusions

Extracellular vesicle lncRNAs isolated using PEViA-IP and CA19-9 together could be effective targets in liquid biopsy for PDAC diagnosis.
Narcissistic Trauma
Authors: Spytska Liana
Published: February 2024

Narcissistic trauma can lead to disruption of the personality functioning system. Therefore, it is important to study the persons who have it, their traits, the sphere of relationships, and strategies of social adaptation. The research aims to study narcissism indicators among individuals with narcissistic trauma diagnosed during a therapeutic conversation to identify its connection with loneliness, life satisfaction, and communication style. The empirical research involved 32 people who sought psychotherapeutic help. All participants provided written consent to participate in the research. A clinical methodology was used to identify the degree of personal narcissism—the Narcissism Assessment Test. The study of the dominant style of social interaction revealed the dominance of two opposite styles: straightforward-aggressive and responsible-generous. Thus, narcissistic trauma is likely to lead to dysfunction of the self-system, and the ability to enjoy life and communication. The data obtained can be useful for both theoretical psychologists and psychotherapists.
Stent Insertion for Inoperable Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma: Comparison Between Unilateral Radioactive Stent and Bilateral Normal Stent
Authors: Liu Yi-Ren , Cui Shi-Jun , Tong Zhu , Song Tao , Yuan Fu-Kang , Feng Jin-Ling
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To comparatively analyze the clinical efficacy and safety of unilateral radioactive stent (RS) insertion versus bilateral normal stent (NS) insertion in patients with inoperable hilar cholangiocarcinoma (HC).

Patients and Methods:

Patients with inoperable HC were treated in our hospital from January 2016 to December 2020. The treatment approach included the insertion of either unilateral RS or bilateral NS, evaluating the efficacy and safety of therapy in 2 distinct groups.

Results:

A total of 58 individuals experienced the insertion of a unilateral RS, whereas 57 patients underwent the insertion of bilateral NS. No statistically significant difference between the unilateral RS and bilateral NS groups was seen in the technical success rates (98.3% vs 94.7%,P= 0.598) and clinical success rates (98.2% vs 100%,P= 0.514). While there is no statistically significant difference in the rates of stent restenosis (19.3% vs 9.3%,P= 0.132) between the two groups, the unilateral RS group demonstrated substantially longer stent patency (202 vs 119 d,P= 0.016) and overall survival (229 vs 122 d,P= 0.004) compared with the bilateral NS group. Moreover, 8 patients (14.0%) in the unilateral RS group and 14 patients (25.9%) in the bilateral NS group had postoperative complications with no significant difference (P= 0.116).

Conclusion:

When inserting stents for inoperable HC, both unilateral RS and bilateral NS insertion procedures have demonstrated favorable therapeutic efficacy. Nevertheless, inserting a unilateral RS provided a longer duration of stent patency and overall survival than implantation of bilateral NS.
Effect of Specimen Extraction Site on Postoperative Incisional Hernia after Minimally Invasive Right Colectomy
Authors: Johnson Josh A , Mesiti Andrea , Herre Margo , Farzaneh Cyrus , Li Ying , Zambare Wini , Carmichael Joseph , Pigazzi Alessio , Jafari Mehraneh D
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Incisional hernia (IH) is a known complication after colorectal surgery. Despite advances in minimally invasive surgery, colorectal surgery still requires extraction sites for specimen retrieval, increasing the likelihood of postoperative IH development. The objective of this study is to determine the effect of specimen extraction site on the rate of IH after minimally invasive right-sided colectomy for patients with available imaging.

STUDY DESIGN:

This is a retrospective multi-institutional cohort study at 2 large academic medical centers in the US. Adults who underwent right-sided minimally invasive colectomy from 2012 to 2020 with abdominal imaging available at least 1 year postoperatively were included in the analysis. The primary exposure was specimen extraction via a midline specimen extraction vs Pfannenstiel specimen extraction. The main outcome was the development of IH at least 1 year postoperatively as visualized on a CT scan.

RESULTS:

Of the 341 patients sampled, 194 (57%) had midline specimen extraction and 147 (43%) had a Pfannenstiel specimen extraction. Midline extraction patients were older (66 ± 15 vs 58 ± 16; p < 0.001) and had a higher rate of previous abdominal operation (99, 51% vs 55, 37%, p = 0.01). The rate of IH was higher in midline extraction at 25% (48) compared with Pfannenstiel extraction (0, 0%; p < 0.001). The average length of stay was higher in the midline extraction group at 5.1 ± 2.5 compared with 3.4 ± 3.1 days in the Pfannenstiel extraction group (p < 0.001). Midline extraction was associated with IH development (odds ratio 24.6; 95% CI 1.89 to 319.44; p = 0.004). Extracorporeal anastomosis was associated with a higher IH rate (odds ratio 25.8; 95% CI 2.10 to 325.71; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients who undergo Pfannenstiel specimen extraction have a lower risk of IH development compared with those who undergo midline specimen extraction.
Early enteral nutrition support for patients with acute pancreatitis in the inpatient setting: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Xie Jieying , Cai Yuhan , Xu Huiying , Peng Yang , McArthur Alexa
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Acute pancreatitis is a major disease that endangers the health and lives of people. Historically, clinical therapy has recommended. that patients with acute pancreatitis remain nil by mouth. As one of the therapies recommended in recent guidelines, early enteral nutrition support reduces the incidence of infectious complications and reduces the risk of severe conditions. However, early enteral nutrition support has not been optimally implemented within clinical practice for acute pancreatitis inpatients.

Objectives:

This evidence implementation project aimed to increase compliance with best practice recommendations for early enteral nutrition support, while standardizing the enteral nutrition support process and reducing the incidence of delayed enteral nutrition.

Methods:

The project was guided by the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework, which is grounded in the audit and feedback process, as well as a seven-stage structured approach to identifying and managing barriers to compliance with recommended practices.

Results:

In the baseline audit, compliance rates were low for all evidence-based audit criteria. Four of the eight criteria showed 0% compliance. However, after implementation, all eight criteria achieved a minimum compliance rate of 60%, with Site 2 achieving 90% to 100% compliance. In addition, nurses improved their knowledge and skills in early enteral nutrition support. The incidence of delayed enteral nutrition also fell from 86.2% to 20.7% at both study sites. The implementation strategy included a training program, psychological interventions, and financial and human resource support.

Conclusion:

This project not only significantly improved early enteral nutrition support for acute pancreatitis patients, but also increased nurses’ knowledge and practice skills, standardized the process of enteral nutrition support, and reduced the incidence of delayed enteral nutrition.

Spanish abstract:

http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A177
Urbanization, self-harm, and suicidal ideation in left-behind children and adolescents in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lin Kelly , Ramos Sandra , Sun Jing
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review

Economic development and urbanisation have prompted many Chinese parents to move from rural to urban regions for better job opportunities. Their children, who remain behind in rural regions, become left-behind children (LBC). With absent parents, children and adolescents are unable to maintain the secure attachment required for healthy social and emotional development, increasing the risk of mental illness. This study aimed to compare risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation in LBC and non-LBC in China.

Recent findings

Greater risks for poor mental health outcomes including worse depression, loneliness and anxiety have been identified in LBC in cross-sectional studies. Previous studies have also identified higher prevalence of bullying victimization, poorer school performance and worse school attendance amongst LBC.

Findings indicate that prolonged separation from parents put LBC at greater risks of poor mental health. Policy changes to allow children to migrate with their parents and policies to reduce inequalities in job opportunities between urban and rural regions are needed.
Why the Shaw–Mohler equation works and when it doesn't
Authors: Burd Martin
Published: February 2024

Fitness gain curves were introduced into the framework of the Shaw–Mohler equation, the foundation of sex allocation theory. I return to the Shaw–Mohler equation to consider how it embodies the rare-sex advantage underlying frequency-dependent selection on the sex ratio. The Shaw–Mohler formulation is based on the numbers of males and females randomly mating in a panmictic population. Gain curves are meant to describe reproductive success through male and female functions in hermaphrodites and have been inserted in place of male and female numbers in the Shaw–Mohler equation. In doing so, gain curves bypass consideration of the implicit mating process in the Shaw–Mohler argument and can lead to anomalies like unequal total male and female fitness in a population. If gain curves truly represent fitness gain, equality of total male and female fitness requires a constant sex allocation of equal resource investment into male and female functions. The blurring of input with fitness outcome has led to misinterpretation of what gain curves mean in reproductive ecology. They can describe a particular reproductive ecology, such as diminishing fitness returns on resource investment, but lack causal efficacy with respect to sex allocation.
The role of social attraction and social avoidance in shaping modular networks
Authors: Romano Valéria , Puga-Gonzalez Ivan , MacIntosh Andrew J. J. , Sueur Cédric
Published: February 2024

How interactions between individuals contribute to the emergence of complex societies is a major question in behavioural ecology. Nonetheless, little remains known about the type of immediate social structure (i.e. social network) that emerges from relationships that maximize beneficial interactions (e.g. social attraction towards informed individuals) and minimize costly relationships (e.g. social avoidance of infected group mates). We developed an agent-based model where individuals vary in the degree to which individuals signal benefits versus costs to others and, on this basis, choose with whom to interact depending on simple rules of social attraction (e.g. access to the highest benefits) and social avoidance (e.g. avoiding the highest costs). Our main findings demonstrate that the accumulation of individual decisions to avoid interactions with highly costly individuals, but that are to some extent homogeneously beneficial, leads to more modular networks. On the contrary, individuals favouring interactions with highly beneficial individuals, but that are to some extent homogeneously costly, lead to less modular networks. Interestingly, statistical models also indicate that when individuals have multiple potentially beneficial partners to interact with, and no interaction cost exists, this also leads to more modular networks. Yet, the degree of modularity is contingent upon the variability in benefit levels held by individuals. We discuss the emergence of modularity in the systems and their consequences for understanding social trade-offs.
The effect of moisture content over the fibre saturation points on the impact strength of wood
Authors: Hassan Vand Mojtaba , Tippner Jan
Published: February 2024

The article's main aim is to assess the mechanical behaviour of linden under high-rate loadings (impact) and its change due to changes in moisture content (MC) over fibre saturation point. For assessing the mechanical properties of green wood, mainly the data of the dried wood is not applicable since the moisture content can drastically affect the mechanical properties of the wood. By testing both dried and high-moisture-content wood, we can understand a general viewpoint toward the effect of the moisture content on the impact behaviour of the wood. Several test samples were made of linden wood with different moisture content levels of 11%, 60% and 160%. A drop-weight impact machine tested the specimens to measure the reaction force of the hammer during a very short impact period. The results of the tests were parameters such as force–time chart, the maximum force required for crack initiation, the impact bending strength (IBS) and the work needed for crack initiation. The results indicated an increase in MC decreases the maximum force, work required for crack initiation and IBS drastically. However, when MC exceeded the fibre saturation point (FSP), there was no further influence on the force pattern and maximum required force.
Genes for cooperation are not more likely to be carried by plasmids
Authors: Dewar Anna E. , Belcher Laurence J. , Scott Thomas W. , West Stuart A.
Published: February 2024

Cooperation is prevalent across bacteria, but risks being exploited by non-cooperative cheats. Horizontal gene transfer, particularly via plasmids, has been suggested as a mechanism to stabilize cooperation. A key prediction of this hypothesis is that genes which are more likely to be transferred, such as those on plasmids, should be more likely to code for cooperative traits. Testing this prediction requires identifying all genes for cooperation in bacterial genomes. However, previous studies used a method which likely misses some of these genes for cooperation. To solve this, we used a new genomics tool, SOCfinder, which uses three distinct modules to identify all kinds of genes for cooperation. We compared where these genes were located across 4648 genomes from 146 bacterial species. In contrast to the prediction of the hypothesis, we found no evidence that plasmid genes are more likely to code for cooperative traits. Instead, we found the opposite—that genes for cooperation were more likely to be carried on chromosomes. Overall, the vast majority of genes for cooperation are not located on plasmids, suggesting that the more general mechanism of kin selection is sufficient to explain the prevalence of cooperation across bacteria.
Relatives reproduce in synchrony: kinship and individual condition shape intraspecific variation in masting phenotype
Authors: Bogdziewicz Michal , Chybicki Igor , Szymkowiak Jakub , Ulaszewski Bartosz , Burczyk Jaroslaw , Szarek-Łukaszewska Grażyna , Meyza Katarzyna , Sztupecka Ewa , Ledwoń Mateusz , Piechnik Łukasz , Seget Barbara , Kondrat Katarzyna , Gazda Anna , Żywiec Magdalena
Published: February 2024

Masting (synchronous and interannually variable seed production) is frequently called a reproductive strategy; yet it is unclear whether the reproductive behaviour of individuals has a heritable component. To address this, we used 22 years of annual fruit production data from 110
Sorbus aucuparia
L. trees to examine the contributions of genetic factors to the reproductive phenotype of individuals, while controlling for environmental variation. Trees sharing close genetic relationships and experiencing similar habitat conditions exhibited similar levels of reproductive synchrony. Trees of comparable sizes displayed similar levels of year-to-year variation in fruiting, with relatedness contributing to this variation. External factors, such as shading, influenced the time intervals between years with abundant fruit production. The effects of genetic relatedness on the synchrony of reproduction among trees and on interannual variation provide long-awaited evidence that the masting phenotype is heritable, and can respond to natural selection.
Something in the water: aquatic microbial communities influence the larval amphibian gut microbiota, neurodevelopment and behaviour
Authors: Emerson Kyle J. , Woodley Sarah K.
Published: February 2024

Microorganisms colonize the gastrointestinal tract of animals and establish symbiotic host-associated microbial communities that influence vertebrate physiology. More specifically, these gut microbial communities influence neurodevelopment through the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis. We tested the hypothesis that larval amphibian neurodevelopment is affected by the aquatic microbial community present in their housing water. Newly hatched Northern Leopard Frog (
Lithobates pipiens
) tadpoles were raised in pond water that was unmanipulated (natural) or autoclaved. Tadpoles raised in autoclaved pond water had a gut microbiota with reduced bacterial diversity and altered community composition, had decreased behavioural responses to sensory stimuli, were larger in overall body mass, had relatively heavier brains and had altered brain shape when compared with tadpoles raised in natural pond water. Further, the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota were associated with tadpole behavioural responses and brain measurements. Our results suggest that aquatic microbial communities shape tadpole behaviour and brain development, providing strong support for the occurrence of the MGB axis in amphibians. Lastly, the dramatic role played by aquatic microbial communities on vertebrate neurodevelopment and behaviour should be considered in future wildlife conservation efforts.
Graph Attention Networks for Drug Combination Discovery: Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Genes with RAIN Protocol
Authors: Parichehreh Elham , Kiaei Ali A. , Boush Mahnaz , Safaei Danial , Bahadori Reza , Salari Nader , Mohammadi Masoud , Khorram Alireza
Published: February 2024

Background

Malignant neoplasm of the pancreas (MNP), a highly lethal illness with bleak outlook and few therapeutic avenues, entails numerous cellular transformations. These include irregular proliferation of ductal cells, activation of stellate cells, initiation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and changes in cell shape, movement, and attachment. Discovering potent drug cocktails capable of addressing the genetic and protein factors underlying pancreatic cancer’s development is formidable due to the disease’s intricate and varied nature.

Method

In this study, we introduce a fresh model utilizing Graph Attention Networks (GATs) to pinpoint potential drug pairings with synergistic effects for MNP, following the RAIN protocol. This protocol comprises three primary stages: Initially, employing Graph Neural Network (GNN) to suggest drug combinations for disease management by acquiring embedding vectors of drugs and proteins from a diverse knowledge graph encompassing various biomedical data types, such as drug-protein interactions, gene expression, and drug-target interactions. Subsequently, leveraging natural language processing to gather pertinent articles from clinical trials incorporating the previously recommended drugs. Finally, conducting network meta-analysis to assess the relative effectiveness of these drug combinations.

Result

We implemented our approach on a network dataset featuring drugs and genes as nodes, connected by edges representing their respective p-values. Our GAT model identified Gemcitabine, Pancrelipase Amylase, and Octreotide as the optimal drug combination for targeting the human genes/proteins associated with this cancer. Subsequent scrutiny of clinical trials and literature confirmed the validity of our findings. Additionally, network meta-analysis confirmed the efficacy of these medications concerning the pertinent genes.

Conclusion

By employing GAT within the RAIN protocol, our approach represents a novel and efficient method for recommending prominent drug combinations to target proteins/genes associated with pancreatic cancer. This technique has the potential to aid healthcare professionals and researchers in identifying optimal treatments for patients while also unveiling underlying disease mechanisms.

Highlights

Graph Attention Networks (GATs) used to recommend drug combinations for pancreatic cancer

RAIN protocol applied to extract relevant information from clinical trials and literature

Gemcitabine, Pancrelipase Amylase, and Octreotide identified as optimal drug combination

Network meta-analysis confirmed the effectiveness of the drug combination on gene targets

Novel and efficient method for drug discovery and disease mechanism elucidation

Abstract Figure
The Rise of Open Data Practices Among Bioscientists at the University of Edinburgh
Authors: Deeb Haya , Creasey Suzanna , de Ugarte Diego Lucini , Strevens George , Usman Trisha , Wong Hwee Yun , Kutzer Megan A. M. , Wilson Emma , Zieliński Tomasz , Millar Andrew J.
Published: February 2024

Open science promotes the accessibility of scientific research and data, emphasising transparency, reproducibility, and collaboration. This study assesses the openness and FAIRness (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) of data-sharing practices within the biosciences at the University of Edinburgh from 2014 to 2023. We analysed 555 research papers across biotechnology, regenerative medicine, infectious diseases, and non-communicable diseases. Our scoring system evaluated data completeness, reusability, accessibility, and licensing, finding a progressive shift towards better data-sharing practices. The fraction of publications that share all relevant data increased significantly, from 7% in 2014 to 45% in 2023. Data involving genomic sequences were shared more frequently than image data or data on human subjects or samples. The presence of data availability statement (DAS) or preprint sharing correlated with more and better data sharing, particularly in terms of completeness. We discuss local and systemic factors underlying the current and future Open data sharing. Evaluating the automated ODDPub (Open Data Detection in Publications) tool on this manually-scored dataset demonstrated high specificity in identifying cases where no data was shared. ODDPub sensitivity improved with better documentation in the DAS. This positive trend highlights improvements in data-sharing, advocating for continued advances and addressing challenges with data types and documentation.