bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Informal carer involvement in the transition of medicines-related care for patients moving from hospital to home: a realist review protocol
Authors: Cooper Matthew , Atkinson Olivia , Black David , Lindsey Laura , Cooper Christina , Nazar Hamde , Wong Geoff , Hughes Carmel , Richardson Charlotte L
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Transition of care for a patient between hospital and home can cause disruption to normal routines, increasing the risk of medicines-related harm. The transition from hospital to home is more complex when a patient does not self-manage their medicines but relies on an informal or unpaid carer (eg, spouse, family member or friend) to provide support. Given the day-to-day medicines-related support provided by informal carers, there is a need to understand how informal carers manage the transition of care from hospital to home; what aspects of hospital discharge act as barriers and facilitators to their involvement and when, how and why these impact patients.

Methods and analysis

A realist review will be undertaken to develop a programme theory. The programme theory will theorise which medicines-related interventions are useful to carers, and how they are useful. It will outline what aspects of those interventions are the most useful and why, and how context influences engagement and medicine-related outcomes. The review will be reported in line with the Realist and Meta-narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards guidelines. Data will be selected, screened and extracted based on defined inclusion and exclusion criteria and relevance to the developing programme theory with the involvement of at least two authors acting independently. Inclusion criteria relate to the relevance to hospital discharge where patients move back to their home, where a carer is involved and where interventions relate to medicines use. Searches will be conducted in PubMed, CINAHL (via EBSCOhost) and EMBASE databases (see supplementary materials for a draft search strategy).

Patients and public, participation, involvement and engagement (PPIE) will be incorporated into all stages of the review through iterative engagement and discussion with patient, carers and representatives from carer organisations. The review will follow four steps: (1) development of the initial programme theory, (2) evidence search, (3) selection, extracting, and organising data and (4) synthesising evidence and drawing conclusions.

Informal carer involvement in transitions of care is a complex and varied phenomena. The programme theory will be shaped by sustained PPIE reflecting the priorities and experiences of lived experience. The realist review be progressively focused so we can develop a better understanding of carer involvement in patient transitions when moving from hospital to home relating to medicines use.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required. The findings of the review will be disseminated via journal articles and through patient and public facing resources such as a visual patient–public-carer focused summary.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021262827.
Targeting TL1A and DR3: the new frontier of anti-cytokine therapy in IBD
Authors: Bamias Giorgos , Menghini Paola , Pizarro Theresa T , Cominelli Fabio
Published: September 2024

TNF-like cytokine 1A (TL1A) and its functional receptor, death-domain receptor 3 (DR3), are members of the TNF and TNFR superfamilies, respectively, with recognised roles in regulating innate and adaptive immune responses; additional existence of a decoy receptor, DcR3, indicates a tightly regulated cytokine system. The significance of TL1A:DR3 signalling in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is supported by several converging lines of evidence. Herein, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of what is currently known regarding the TL1A/DR3 system in the context of IBD. TL1A and DR3 are expressed by cellular subsets with important roles for the initiation and maintenance of intestinal inflammation, serving as potent universal costimulators of effector immune responses, indicating their participation in the pathogenesis of IBD. Recent evidence also supports a homoeostatic role for TL1A:DR3 via regulation of Tregs and innate lymphoid cells. TL1A and DR3 are also expressed by stromal cells and may contribute to inflammation-induced or inflammation-independent intestinal fibrogenesis. Finally, discovery of genetic polymorphisms with functional consequences may allow for patient stratification, including differential responses to TL1A-targeted therapeutics. In conclusion, TL1A:DR3 signalling plays a central and multifaceted role in the immunological pathways that underlie intestinal inflammation, such as that observed in IBD. Such evidence provides the foundation for developing pharmaceutical approaches targeting this ligand-receptor pair in IBD.
Identification of PRMT5 as a therapeutic target in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Elurbide Jasmin , Colyn Leticia , Latasa Maria U , Uriarte Iker , Mariani Stefano , Lopez-Pascual Amaya , Valbuena Emiliana , Castello-Uribe Borja , Arnes-Benito Robert , Adan-Villaescusa Elena , Martinez-Perez Luz A , Azkargorta Mikel , Elortza Felix , Wu Hanghang , Krawczyk Marcin , Schneider Kai Markus , Sangro Bruno , Aldrighetti Luca , Ratti Francesca , Casadei Gardini Andrea , Marin Jose J G , Amat Irene , Urman Jesus M , Arechederra Maria , Martinez-Chantar Maria Luz , Trautwein Christian , Huch Meritxell , Cubero Francisco Javier , Berasain Carmen , G Fernandez-Barrena Maite , Avila Matias A
Published: September 2024

Background

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a very difficult-to-treat cancer. Chemotherapies are little effective and response to immune checkpoint inhibitors is limited. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies need to be identified.

Objective

We characterised the enzyme protein arginine-methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) as a novel therapeutic target in CCA.

Design

We evaluated the expression of PRMT5, its functional partner MEP50 and methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP)—an enzyme that modulates the sensitivity of PRMT5 to pharmacological inhibitors—in human CCA tissues. PRMT5-targeting drugs, currently tested in clinical trials for other malignancies, were assessed in human CCA cell lines and organoids, as well as in two immunocompetent CCA mouse models. Transcriptomic, proteomic and functional analyses were performed to explore the underlying antitumoural mechanisms.

Results

PRMT5 and MEP50 proteins were correlatively overexpressed in most CCA tissues. MTAP was absent in 25% of intrahepatic CCA. PRMT5-targeting drugs markedly inhibited CCA cell proliferation, synergising with cisplatin and gemcitabine and hindered the growth of cholangiocarcinoma organoids. PRMT5 inhibition blunted the expression of oncogenic genes involved in chromatin remodelling and DNA repair, consistently inducing the formation of RNA loops and promoting DNA damage. Treatment with PRMT5-targeting drugs significantly restrained the growth of experimental CCA without adverse effects and concomitantly induced the recruitment of CD4 and CD8 T cells to shrinking tumourous lesions.

Conclusion

PRMT5 and MEP50 are frequently upregulated in human CCA, and PRMT5-targeting drugs have significant antitumoural efficacy in clinically relevant CCA models. Our findings support the evaluation of PRMT5 inhibitors in clinical trials, including their combination with cytotoxic and immune therapies.
InvasiveNeisseria meningitidissubtype C in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men: a systematic review
Authors: Rabuszko Lucy , Stuart-George Sarah , Chessell Callum , Fitzpatrick Colin , Williams Deborah , Richardson Daniel
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Outbreaks of invasiveNeisseria meningitidissubtype C in networks of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) have been reported. We aimed to explore any factors seen in MSM with invasiveN.meningitidissubtype C.

Method

We searched three bibliographical databases for manuscripts written in English exploring at least one factor seen in MSM with invasiveN. meningitidissubtype C published up to May 2024. Following an initial search, removal of duplicates and abstract review, two authors independently reviewed full-text manuscripts and performed a risk of bias assessment using the Joanna Briggs Institute toolkit. Narrative data were synthesised to generate themes.

Results

16 manuscripts were included in this review from the USA (n=10), Germany (n=2), France (n=2), Canada (n=1) and Italy (n=1) and consisted of nine case series, four cross-sectional studies, two case reports and one case–control study published between 2003 and 2024 involving 236 MSM with invasiveN. meningitidissubtype C, of which at least 64 died. We have highlighted some demographic (African-American or Hispanic identity in the USA, living with HIV), behavioural (kissing, sharing drinks, visiting sex-on-premises venues, visiting gay-oriented venues, using websites/mobile phone apps to meet sexual partners, recreational drug use, multiple and non-regular sexual partners) and infection (previousChlamydia trachomatis, Treponema pallidum, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mpox) factors in MSM with invasiveN. meningitidissubtype C.

Conclusion

These data serve as an important resource to inform and target future public health strategies and outbreak control measures for the prevention of invasiveN. meningitidissubtype C in MSM.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024543551.
Modified cosmology through Kaniadakis entropy
Authors: Zangeneh Mahdi Kord , Sheykhi Ahmad
Published: September 2024

We explore a cosmological model inspired by the modified Kaniadakis entropy and disclose the influences of the modified Friedmann equations on the evolution of the Universe. We find that in modified Kaniadakis cosmology with only pressure-less matter, one can reproduce the accelerated Universe without invoking any kind of dark energy. We delve into the evolution of the Universe during the radiation-dominated era as well. We also investigate the behavior of the scale factor and the deceleration parameter for a multiple-component Universe consisting of pressure-less matter and a cosmological constant/dark energy. Interestingly enough, the predicted age of the Universe in the modified Kaniadakis cosmology becomes larger compared to the standard cosmology which may alleviate the age problem. Furthermore, the findings reveal that in the modified Kaniadakis cosmology, the transition from a decelerated phase to an accelerated Universe occurs at higher redshifts compared to the standard cosmology. These results shed light on the potential implications of incorporating Kaniadakis entropy into cosmological models and provide valuable insights into the behavior of the Universe in different cosmological scenarios. Moreover, they emphasize the crucial role of modifications to the geometry component and the significance of such modifications in understanding the dynamics of the Universe.
Variable Parameters t Chart: An Application in Automobile Engine Piston Rings Manufacturing Process
Authors: Saha Sajal , Khoo Michael B. C. , Mim Faijun Nahar , Chatterjee Kashinath , Yeong Wai Chung
Published: September 2024

The [Formula: see text] type charts possess a drawback as they may falsely indicate out-of-control (OOC) situations when the process standard deviation is unstable. They are not robust against estimation errors or variations in the process standard deviation. To overcome this setback, the [Formula: see text] type charts were developed. This research introduces the variable parameters (VP) [Formula: see text] chart for effectively monitoring the process mean. This study encompasses the implementation, optimal designs and performance evaluation of the proposed VP [Formula: see text] chart. The average time to signal (ATS), standard deviation of the time to signal (SDTS) and expected average time to signal (EATS) criteria are used to assess and compare the performance of the VP [Formula: see text] chart with existing charts, such as Shewhart (SH) [Formula: see text], synthetic (Syn) [Formula: see text], side-sensitive group runs (SSGR) [Formula: see text], exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) [Formula: see text] and variable sampling interval (VSI) EWMA [Formula: see text] charts. From extensive analysis, we observe that the VP [Formula: see text] chart outperforms the SH [Formula: see text], Syn [Formula: see text] and SSGR [Formula: see text] charts for all sizes of mean shifts. However, the EWMA [Formula: see text] and VSI EWMA [Formula: see text] charts exhibit better performance for small shifts. Additionally, to demonstrate the implementation and usage of the proposed VP [Formula: see text] chart, we present a real-world manufacturing example.
The use of 4D data-independent acquisition-based proteomic analysis and machine learning to reveal potential biomarkers for stress levels
Authors: Chen Dehua , Yang Yongsheng , Shi Dongdong , Zhang Zhenhua , Wang Mei , Pan Qiao , Su Jianwen , Wang Zhen
Published: September 2024

Research suggests that individuals who experience prolonged exposure to stress may be at higher risk for developing psychological stress disorders. Currently, psychological stress is primarily evaluated by professional physicians using rating scales, which may be prone to subjective biases and limitations of the scales. Therefore, it is imperative to explore more objective, accurate, and efficient biomarkers for evaluating the level of psychological stress in an individual. In this study, we utilized 4D data-independent acquisition (4D-DIA) proteomics for quantitative protein analysis, and then employed support vector machine (SVM) combined with SHAP interpretation algorithm to identify potential biomarkers for psychological stress levels. Biomarkers validation was subsequently achieved through machine learning classification and a substantial amount of a priori knowledge derived from the knowledge graph. We performed cross-validation of the biomarkers using two batches of data, and the results showed that the combination of Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and Fibronectin yielded an average area under the curve (AUC) of 92%, an average accuracy of 86%, an average F1 score of 79%, and an average sensitivity of 83%. Therefore, this combination may represent a potential approach for detecting stress levels to prevent psychological stress disorders.
New Solution to 3D Projection in Human-like Binocular Vision
Authors: Xie Ming , Fang Yuhui , Lai Tingfeng
Published: September 2024

A human eye has about 120 million rod cells and 6 million cone cells. This huge number of light-sensing cells inside a human eye will continuously produce a huge quantity of visual signals that flow into the human brain for daily processing. However, the real-time processing of these visual signals does not cause excessive energy consumption by the human brain. This fact tells us the truth which is to say that human-like vision processes do not rely on complicated and expensive formulas to compute depth, displacement, and colors. On the other hand, the human eye is like a camera with pan-tilt (PT) motions. We all know that in computer vision, each set of PT parameters (i.e., coefficients of pan motion as well as tilt motion) requires a dedicated calibration to determine a camera’s projection matrix. Since there is an infinite number of PT parameters that could be produced by a human eye, it is unlikely that a human brain stores an infinite number of calibration matrices for each human eye. These observations inspire us to look for a simpler and computationally non-expensive solution which is to undertake three-dimensional (3D) projection in human-like binocular vision. In other words, it is an interesting question for us to answer, which is to say whether simpler and learning-friendly formulas for computing depth and displacement exist or not. If the answer is yes, these formulas must also be calibration-friendly (i.e., easy process on the fly or on the go). In this paper, we present an important discovery of a new solution to 3D projection in a human-like binocular vision system. This solution is computationally simpler and could be easily learned or calibrated on the fly. We know that the purpose of doing 3D projection in binocular vision is to undertake forward and inverse transformations (or mappings) between coordinates in 2D digital images and coordinates in a 3D analogue scene. The formulas underlying the new solution are accurate, easily computable, easily tunable (i.e., to be calibrated on the fly or on the go) and could be easily implemented by a neural system (i.e., a network of neurons or a network of computational flows). Experimental results have validated the newly derived formulas which are better than textbook solutions.
Improvement of photoluminescence efficiency and photoelectricity performances of InP quantum dots through the passivation of surface defects
Authors: Yang Suolong , Tang Jinqiang , Zhao Xiaochong
Published: September 2024

At present, InP quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) still show moderate power conversion efficiency (PCE), because of charge recombination on the surface defects. Herein, we report a method to reduce the surface defects of InP quantum dots by Ga-doped and ZnS shell coating, which improves the performance of InP QDSSCs. Simultaneous enhancement of photoluminescence (PL) and photo-electricity performance of Ga doped InP (Ga:InP) quantum dots (QDs), Ga:InP/ZnS core/shell QDs were achieved. The maximum PL quantum yield of Ga:InP QDs and Ga:InP/ZnS QDs reached 14.9% and 76%, respectively. The maximum PCE value of Ga:InP and Ga:InP/ZnS QDSSCs reached 3.0% and 4.5% under 1 sun illumination (AM 1.5 G, 100 mW/cm2), respectively. The J-V curve revealed that Ga doping and ZnS shell coating reduced the surface recombination and increased the cell efficiency and stability. These results provided a new approach to obtaining quantum dot materials with high luminescence properties or good solar cell performances.
A recyclable and efficient magnetic photocatalyst-Bi5O7I/SrFe12O19
Authors: Wang Hailong , Zhang Chaodi , Xu Longjun
Published: September 2024

In order to maintain the excellent photocatalytic oxidation ability and improve the recyclability of Bi5O7I. A highly efficient and recyclable photocatalyst composed of Bi5O7I and strontium ferrite was successfully prepared by the hydrothermal method. The photocatalytic efficiency of Bi5O7I/strontium ferrite composite photocatalyst under visible light was evaluated by using rhodamine B (RhB) as a simulated pollutant. It was investigated that 96.6% degradation of RhB was displayed by a 10% Bi5O7I/SrFe[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] composite photocatalyst, which indicated highly enhanced photocatalytic activities compared to pure Bi5O7I. The Bi5O7I/SrFe[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] photocatalyst was recyclable on account of the surprising magnetic properties illustrated in the hysteresis loop images, and it could still degrade 81.3% of RhB after 5 cycles. Besides, it has been demonstrated that the obtained photocatalyst is a feasible approach to efficiently removing RhB, which could provide a brand-new strategy for a low-cost and effective photocatalyst to remove organic contaminants.
The Microbial Sources of Bioactive Compounds: Potential Anticancer Therapeutic Options
Authors: Ahmed Naveed , Abusalah Mai Abdel Haleem A. , Absar Muhammad , Nasir Muhammad Hassan , Farzand Anam , Ahmad Ijaz , Sohail Zaineb , Singh Kirnpal Kaur Banga , Baig Atif Amin , Yean Chan Yean
Published: September 2024

Chemotherapy and other traditional anticancer treatments are losing their efficacy in the battle against cancer. As a result, cancer treatment strategies must be continually adjusted to meet the rising demand for alternative medicines. Several viral and non-viral vectors have been used previously. However, it has been shown that microorganisms are a strong contender for successfully combating cancer. They are a remarkable source of toxins, polysaccharides, tumor-specific anticancer genes, nanodrugs and gene-delivery vectors. One of the emerging key players in cancer therapy is bacteria. It has been demonstrated that traditional methods of altering the microbiome, such as antibiotics, probiotics and microbiota transplants, can sometimes increase the effectiveness of cancer therapies. However, problems with these methods, such as consistency and collateral damage to the commensal microbiota, spur the development of new technologies specifically aimed at the microbiome-cancer interface. In light of nanotechnology’s success in transforming cancer diagnostics and treatment, nanotechnologies with the capacity to control interactions that occur across microscopic and molecular length scales in the microbiome and the tumor microenvironment have the potential to provide innovative methods for cancer treatment. The relationship between nanotechnology, the microbiome and cancer offers tremendous potential. This paper highlights the contributions of significant bacterial groups to several anticancer research fields.
The Iron Cage of Social Robotics
Authors: Zawieska Karolina
Published: September 2024

This article focuses on the conviction that has been popular within parts of the Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) community and beyond that social robots are or soon will become part of our everyday lives. Given the limited availability of social robots on the market and their evident absence in everyday environments, such a conviction is viewed here as highly inaccurate and, hence, quite astonishing in its prevalence and power. We argue that since social robots continue to be research platforms in the first place, depicting them as everyday objects leads to a profound paradox that hinders the successful integration of robots into society. A big part of the problem is in rigid conceptualisations of the social robot and conventional views of everyday life. In an attempt to offer an alternative approach, we propose to redefine the dominant perspectives on ‘interaction’ in HRI research to embrace the notion of ‘integration’ and ‘lived experience’ instead and by doing so, capture the complexity and transformative potential of the everyday. We argue that ‘everyday life’ can potentially become not so much a point of arrival as a point of departure for HRI research and a catalyst for critical and creative thinking of human-robot futures.
The Prokaryotic Roots of Eukaryotic Immune Systems
Authors: Aravind L. , Nicastro Gianlucca G. , Iyer Lakshminarayan M. , Burroughs A. Maxwell
Published: September 2024

Over the past two decades, studies have revealed profound evolutionary connections between prokaryotic and eukaryotic immune systems, challenging the notion of their unrelatedness. Immune systems across the tree of life share an operational framework, shaping their biochemical logic and evolutionary trajectories. The diversification of immune genes in the prokaryotic superkingdoms, followed by lateral transfer to eukaryotes, was central to the emergence of innate immunity in the latter. These include protein domains related to nucleotide second messenger–dependent systems, NAD+/nucleotide degradation, and P-loop NTPase domains of the STAND and GTPase clades playing pivotal roles in eukaryotic immunity and inflammation. Moreover, several domains orchestrating programmed cell death, ultimately of prokaryotic provenance, suggest an intimate link between immunity and the emergence of multicellularity in eukaryotes such as animals. While eukaryotes directly adopted some proteins from bacterial immune systems, they repurposed others for new immune functions from bacterial interorganismal conflict systems. These emerging immune components hold substantial biotechnological potential.
Bipolar Membrane Capacitive Deionization for the Selective Capture of Lithium Ions from Brines and Conversion to Lithium Hydroxide
Authors: Kulkarni Tanmay , Al Dhamen Aliya Muhammad I , Zhang Xiaoliu , Chiu Chan-Wen , Zhang Hanrui , Shi Feifei , Kumar Revati , Arges Christopher G.
Published: September 2024

Meeting the increasing demand for lithium in vehicle electrification and renewable energy storage requires innovations in lithium-ion (Li+) separations. Traditional solar evaporation methods for lithium recovery are slow and consume tremendous volumes of water and secondary chemicals (acids and bases). This study introduces a bipolar membrane capacitive deionization (BPM-CDI) unit for direct lithium extraction and LiOH production without the external addition of acids and bases. Utilizing de-lithiated lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) coated carbon cloth electrodes, the BPM-CDI unit demonstrates selective Li+ capture over competing ions. Molecular dynamics simulations and H-cell experiments elucidate pH inversion mechanisms during Li+ release, yielding LiOH. The BPM-CDI platform efficiently removes Li+ from synthetic brines featuring 8x higher Mg2+ concentrations (200 ppm Mg2+) and 26x higher Na+ concentrations (682 ppm Na+), achieving a LiOH concentration of 124 ppm (36 ppm Li+) after 8 cycles of recirculation. Post-mortem analysis confirms electrode integrity and stability. BPM-CDI integrated with selective electrodes is a promising electrochemical separation-reactor platform for lithium recovery while producing LiOH.
Preparation of the Binder from Banana Pseudostem Waste and Its Application in Pigment Dyeing
Authors: Larik Abdul Fatah , Memon Najma , Memon Rashid Hussain , Sirajuddin  , Ferdousi Farhana Khanam , Habib Ahsan
Published: September 2024

The disposal of banana pseudostem waste creates substantial environmental concerns. To address this issue, it is crucial to explore the potential of converting this abundant waste into valuable industrial products. Therefore, this research was designed to explore the utilization of banana pseudostem fiber waste (BPW) in the development of a textile binder. Solvothermal digestion of pseudostem fibers into ammonia followed by neutralization with sulfuric acid resulted in viscous gel which was tested as a binder (BPW‐binder) for the pigment dying process. Various parameters, including curing, washing fastness, tensile strength, stiffness, and light fastness, were examined to compare the performance of the two binders. The results showed that the BPW‐binder performed similarly to the commercial Halzarin binder in terms of washing fastness and did not leave any stains on the multifibre strip. Both binders demonstrated excellent light fastness, with a rating of 8 on the blue wool scale for both cotton and cotton‐polyester fabrics. However, there were slight variations in elongation and stiffness between the two binders with values ranging from 9.41 to 28.26% and 1.5 to 1.9 CMS across different fabric types, which were dependent on the fabric. Fourier transform infrared analysis revealed lignin amine salt peaks in the banana pseudostem‐based BPW‐binder, while scanning electron microscope images of BPW‐binder treated fabrics confirmed suitable binder properties with a rough and ordered lamellar surface. This study demonstrates the potential of transforming banana pseudostem fiber waste into a sustainable textile binder through an efficient and straightforward process. The BPW‐binder showed comparable performance to the synthetic commercial binder, indicating its potential as a sustainable replacement in the industry.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Reduces Pain and Improves Internal Rotation after Arthroscopic Capsular Release: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Lin Zifan , Shao Hong , Chen Jun , Yao Wei , Liu Chang , Jin Zhengbiao , Li Yunxia
Published: September 2024

Background. There is still no consensus on the treatment of frozen shoulder (FS). Clinical studies on extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) combined with arthroscopic capsular release (ACR) for FS are still lacking. Objectives. To investigate the effect of ESWT on short‐term functional recovery after arthroscopic capsular release (ACR). Methods. A randomized clinical trial including 49 patients who under ACR was included. The patients were assigned to the ESWT group (n = 24) or non‐ESWT group (n = 25) 2 weeks after surgery. Routine advanced rehabilitation program are given to all participants, while the ESWT group additionally received 5 times shockwave therapy. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, Constant score, University of California Los Angeles score (UCLA), UCLA‐satisfaction, and shoulder range of motion (ROM) in four directions of flexion, abduction, internal, and external rotation were analyzed at the baseline (2 weeks postsurgery), 2 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks of follow‐up. Repeated measure ANOVA is used to analyze the above outcomes. Results. A total of 46 participants completed all assessments. Pain and function improved in both groups. Comparing between the groups, we found that lower VAS pain scores and higher internal rotation were found in the ESWT group at each follow‐up stage (all P < 0.05, 12 weeks VAS‐pain 95% CI: [ESWT: 1.55–2.19, non‐ESWT: 2.11–2.76], and 12 weeks internal rotation 95% CI: [ESWT: 5.42–7.27, non‐ESWT: 7.20–9.06]). Regarding functional scores, the UCLA and UCLA‐satisfaction of the ESWT group was significantly higher than that of the control group at 8 weeks and 12 weeks of follow‐up (all P < 0.05, 12 weeks UCLA 95% CI: [ESWT: 31.94‐33.45, non‐ESWT: 27.94‐29.45], 12 weeks UCLA‐satisfaction 95% CI: [ESWT: 4.32–5.00, non‐ESWT: 2.50–4.32]), but there was no significant difference in Constant (P > 0.05, 12 weeks Constant 95% CI: [ESWT: 82.98‐92.94, non‐ESWT: 78.24–88.20]). Conclusion. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy has a good analgesic effect and improves internal rotation after arthroscopic capsular release through short‐term follow‐up.
Figure S2 from Targeting TREX1 Induces Innate Immune Response in Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Murayama Takahiko , Mahadevan Navin R. , Meador Catherine B. , Ivanova Elena V. , Pan Yuqiao , Knelson Erik H. , Tani Tetsuo , Nakayama Jun , Ma Xueying , Thai Tran C. , Hung Yin P. , Kim William , Watanabe Hideo , Cai Kathy Q. , Hata Aaron N. , Paweletz Cloud P. , Barbie David A. , Cañadas Israel
Published: September 2024

Figure S2 shows TREX1 loss suppresses SCLC growth and induces immune response
Figure 3 from Targeting TREX1 Induces Innate Immune Response in Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Murayama Takahiko , Mahadevan Navin R. , Meador Catherine B. , Ivanova Elena V. , Pan Yuqiao , Knelson Erik H. , Tani Tetsuo , Nakayama Jun , Ma Xueying , Thai Tran C. , Hung Yin P. , Kim William , Watanabe Hideo , Cai Kathy Q. , Hata Aaron N. , Paweletz Cloud P. , Barbie David A. , Cañadas Israel
Published: September 2024

Immunogenicity is induced in TREX1 depleted cells through cGAS-STING activation. A, ELISA of human cGAMP level in cell lysates of Scr or sgTREX1 H69AR and H196 cells, treated with 0.5 µmol/L reversine or DMSO for 72 hours. B, ELISA of human IFNβ level in conditioned medium derived from Scr or sgTREX1 H69AR and H196 cells, treated with 5-µmol/L cisplatin or DMSO for 72 hours. C, Schematic of cGAS-STING pathway leading to IFN response. STING is a crucial mediator of the dsDNA sensing pathway. D, Expression levels of TREX1, STING, and p-IRF3 in H69AR and H196 cells were compared by immunoblotting between cells transfected with siCtrl and siTREX1 (#1) in Scr or sgSTING background. E, Expression levels of IFNB and IFIT1 genes were compared between cells transduced with Scr or STING sgRNA, after transfection with siCtrl and siTREX1 (#1; mean ± SEM; n = 3). F, Growth curves of H69AR and H196 cells [Scr or sgSTING, transfected with siCtrl or siTREX1 (#1)] were compared (mean ± SEM; n = 3). Data represent mean ± SEM. ns, not significant; *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001 by two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s multiple comparisons test (A, B, E, and F).
Figure 2 from Targeting TREX1 Induces Innate Immune Response in Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Murayama Takahiko , Mahadevan Navin R. , Meador Catherine B. , Ivanova Elena V. , Pan Yuqiao , Knelson Erik H. , Tani Tetsuo , Nakayama Jun , Ma Xueying , Thai Tran C. , Hung Yin P. , Kim William , Watanabe Hideo , Cai Kathy Q. , Hata Aaron N. , Paweletz Cloud P. , Barbie David A. , Cañadas Israel
Published: September 2024

TREX1 depletion suppresses SCLC growth and induces IFN response. A, Expression levels of TREX1, IRF3, and p-IRF3 in H69AR and H196 were compared by immunoblotting between cells transduced with Scr and sgTREX1 (#1 and #2). B, Growth curves of H69AR and H196 cells were compared between siCtrl and siTREX1 (#1 and #2; mean ± SEM; n = 3). C, GSEA analysis with H (hallmark) gene sets, based on RNA-seq results of siTREX1 vs. siCtrl H69AR cells. D, Expression levels of IFNB and IFIT1 genes in cells transfected with siCtrl and siTREX1 (#1) were compared by qPCR (mean ± SEM; n = 3). E and F, HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C (E) and PDL1 (F) expressions in H69AR and H196 cells transfected with siCtrl or siTREX1 were compared by flow cytometry analysis. Data are representative of three independent experiments (Left). Mean fluorescence intensity was quantified by FlowJo (Right; n = 3). Cells were analyzed 3 days after siRNA transfection. G, (Left) Schematic of cancer cell–T-cell coculture, performed at a stimulator/responder (S/R) ratio of 1:1. (Right) IL2 secretion from 72 hours cocultures of RPP-A-EtopR (Scr or sgTrex1) or parental RPP-A cells ± 24-hour IFNγ (100 ng/mL) stimulation and no (nil), parental untransduced BW5147.3 (P), or Trav14D-3-DV8; Trbv29 transgenic BW5147.3 (TCR) T cells. BW (−/+) and TCR (−/+) bars represent P or TCR T cells alone without (−) or with (+) PMA (50 nmol/L) and ionomycin (1 μg/mL). ^, above assay threshold of detection (mean ± SEM; n = 4). Data represent mean ± SEM. ns, not significant; *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001 by unpaired Student t test (D, E and F), one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s multiple comparisons test (B) and two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s multiple comparisons test (G).
The Clinical Symptoms and Psychological Status of Biofeedback Electrical Stimulation Combined with Pelvic Floor Muscle Training during the Treatment of Mild Stress Urinary Incontinence after Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate
Authors: Zhang Zhijie , Zhou Xiang , Yang Zhichao , Tang Yuhang , Hong Anjie , Wei Chongrui , Wang Jian , Ye Liangwen , Hou Xiangyi , Xu Wei , Suo Xianghui , Zhang Li
Published: September 2024

Introduction: To study the clinical symptoms and psychological status of biofeedback electrical stimulation combined with pelvic floor muscle training during the treatment of mild stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). Methods: Group A was treated by biofeedback and electrical stimulation; Group B was treated by pelvic floor muscle training; and Group C was treated by biofeedback and electrical stimulation combined with pelvic floor muscle training. Patients in the 3 groups had follow-up evaluations every 8, 16, and 24 weeks. Clinical symptoms of urinary incontinence were assessed using the 24-h urinary pad test, the Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI-SF); and psychological status was evaluated using the modified Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS). Results: The results of ICIQ-UI-SF showed that there were differences within and between the three groups at 8 weeks, 16 weeks, and 24 weeks (p < 0.05). The results of the 24-h pad tests were similar (p < 0.05), except for no difference between group B and group C at 8 weeks (p > 0.05). In the study with the score of HADS >35, the differences among the three groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference among the three groups at 0 and 8 weeks (p > 0.05). There were differences in the results between group C and the other two groups at 16 and 24 weeks of treatment (p < 0.05). For patients with HADS <35 at week 0, the results were basically the same except for the difference between groups at week 8. HADS of all patients were no statistical difference (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Biofeedback electrical stimulation combined with pelvic floor muscle training is an efficient nonsurgical combination therapy for the symptoms of SUI after HoLEP for benign prostatic hyperplasia. In addition, the recovery of the patient’s psychological state does not coincide with the recovery of urinary incontinence; therefore, we propose that patients still need additional psychological treatment after SUI disappears.
The Protective Effect of Adipose-Derived Stromal Vascular Fraction on Ovarian Function in Rats with Cyclophosphamide-Induced Ovarian Damage
Authors: Okten Sabri Berkem , Ozcan Pinar , Tok Olgu Enis , Devranoglu Belgin , Cetin Caglar , Tanoglu Fatma Basak , Ficicioglu Cem
Published: September 2024

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate if adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) treatment has any protective effect on ovarian function in rats with cyclophosphamide (CP) induced ovarian damage. Design: This was an experimental animal study. Participants/Materials, Setting, Methods: 25 mature cycling Wistar-Albino rats were randomized into four groups (n = 5 per group). Rats in groups 1 and 2 received single dose of intraperitoneal (i.p.) 1 mL/kg sodium chloride 0.9% (NaCl). Groups 3 and 4 received single dose of 75 mg/kg i.p. CP. On seventh day, SVF was prepared from adipose tissues of 5 additional rats and groups 1 and 3 received 0.9% NaCl i.p. injections while groups 2 and 4 received 0.2 mL i.p. injections of SVF. On day 21 all rats were euthanized, and serum anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels, primordial, primary, secondary, antral, and atretic follicle counts, AMH positive staining follicle counts along with AMH staining intensity of the follicles were evaluated. Results: Among two CP induced ovarian damaged groups, SVF treated group showed significantly higher secondary and antral follicle and lower atretic follicle counts, significantly higher mean serum AMH levels, AMH positive antral follicle count and higher intensity of AMH positive follicle scores for primary, secondary, and antral follicles when compared to untreated group. Moreover, group 1 showed no significant difference for all parameters except antral follicle count and AMH positive staining intensity scores for antral follicles when compared to group 4. Limitations: This study was conducted on experimental rat model. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated a significant protective effect of SVF against CP-induced ovarian damage which reveals the apparent need for further investigation of its precise mechanisms of action as it may provide a new treatment approach for women with premature ovarian failure.
Dose-Reduction of Bevacizumab in Atezolizumab plus Bevacizumab Therapy Extends Treatment duration with Disease Control in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sakai Miwa , Iwamoto Hideki , Shimose Shigeo , Niizeki Takashi , Nakano Masahito , Shirono Tomotake , Noda Yu , Moriyama Etsuko , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Koga Hironori , Kuromatsu Ryoko , Kawaguchi Takumi
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Atezolizumab (ATZ) and bevacizumab (BEV) combination therapy is widely used in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, combination therapy is typically interrupted or discontinued owing to BEV-related adverse events. In this study, we examined the effects of BEV dose-reduction on the treatment of unresectable HCC using propensity score matching (PSM). Method: Overall, 119 patients with HCC who were treated with ATZ + BEV between November 2020 and October 2022 were enrolled retrospectively at our institute. The therapeutic effects and safety of BEV dose-reduction and non-dose reduction after PSM were compared. Decision-tree analysis was used to investigate treatment duration in the patients. Results: Significant differences were not observed between the two groups after PSM. The objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) assessed by modified RECIST did not differ significantly between the two groups (BEV non-dose-reduction/dose-reduction: ORR; 46/34%, DCR; 80/91%). Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) also did not differ significantly between the two groups (BEV non-dose-reduction/dose-reduction: PFS; 5.6/8.6 months, OS; 18.6/15.5 months). The median duration of treatment in the BEV dose-reduction group was significantly longer than that in the non-dose-reduction group (BEV non-dose-reduction/dose-reduction: 4.8/9.1 months, p = 0.038). Decision-tree analysis revealed that dose-reduction of BEV was the first distinguish factor for the extension of treatment duration with ATZ + BEV. Conclusion: BEV dose-reduction can be effectively used in maintaining the treatment duration of ATZ + BEV while maintaining therapeutic effects and safety in real-world clinical practice.
Is Endovascular Arteriovenous Fistula a Feasible Alternative for Hemodialysis Patients?
Authors: Vergara-Pérez Hugo , Diaitz-Usetxi Laplaza Raúl , Pérez Alba Alejandro , Baliño Remiro Pablo , Rius Peris Asunción , Fenollosa Segarra M. Ángeles , Tamayo Vasquez Alejandro , Reque Javier
Published: September 2024

Introduction: For hemodialysis (HD) patients, the selection of vascular access is a crucial factor that significantly affects morbidity and mortality. Historically, native arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) have been established using surgical techniques. However, devices facilitating percutaneous endovascular arteriovenous fistula (endoAVF) formation have recently been introduced in clinical practice, showing promising initial evidence. The primary objectives were technical success, efficacy, and cannulation rates. The secondary objectives included primary and cumulative patency, safety, and the number of procedures required to maintain fistula patency. Methods: A prospective, single-center, single-arm study included all patients who underwent endoAVF creation using the WavelinQ™ EndoAVF System at a University Hospital between December 2021 and August 2023. Results: A total of 20 patients who underwent an endoAVF were included. Technical success was 100%. In total, 75% (15) of the endoAVFs met the criteria for physiological suitability. The cannulation rate was 66% (10/15) for endoAVFs that reached physiological suitability. At 6 months of follow-up, the primary and cumulative patency rates were 65% and 75%, respectively; at 12 months, these were 50% and 70%, respectively. Serious adverse events were not observed. The reintervention rate was 0.33 procedures/patient-year. Conclusion: Based on our experience, creating AVFs using the WavelinQ 4-F EndoAVF System is safe and effective, with high technical success rates and acceptable patency and reintervention rates.
Synaptic Pruning by Microglia: Lessons from Genetic Studies in Mice
Authors: de Deus Junia Lara , Faborode Oluwaseun Samuel , Nandi Sayan
Published: September 2024

Background: Neural circuits are subjected to refinement throughout life. The dynamic addition and elimination (pruning) of synapses are necessary for maturation of neural circuits and synaptic plasticity. Due to their phagocytic nature, microglia have been considered as the primary mediators of synaptic pruning. Synaptic pruning can strengthen an active synapse by removing excess weaker synapses during development. Inappropriate synaptic pruning can often influence a disease outcome or an injury response. Summary: This review offers a focused discussion on microglial roles in synaptic pruning, based on the evidence gathered from genetic manipulations in mice. Genetically labeled microglia and synapses often allow assessment of their interactions in real time. Further manipulations involving synaptically localized molecules, neuronally or glial-derived diffusible factors, and their respective cognate receptors in microglia provide critical evidence in support of a direct role of microglia in synaptic pruning. Key Message: We discuss microglial contact-dependent “eat-me,” “don’t-eat-me,” and “find-me” signals, as well as recently identified noncontact pruning, under the contexts of neural circuit, brain region, developmental window, and an injury or a disease state.
Statherin-Derived Peptide Protects against Intrinsic Erosive Enamel Wear in situ
Authors: Taira Even Akemi , Ferrari Carolina Ruis , Carvalho Gabriel , Pelá Vinicius Taioqui , Ventura Talita Mendes Oliveira , Crusca Edson , Marchetto Reinaldo , Buzalaf Marília Afonso Rabelo
Published: September 2024

Introduction: This in situ study investigated the protective effect of a solution containing statherin-derived peptide (StatpSpS) against enamel intrinsic erosion (ERO). Methods: Fifteen volunteers wore appliances containing 2 bovine specimens. The samples were subjected to ERO with HCl, mimicking dental ERO by intrinsic acid. The volunteers participated in 3 phases (double-blind and crossover): (1) deionized water (negative control); (2) commercial solution containing SnCl2/NaF/AmF (800 ppm Sn+2, 500 ppm F−, pH 4.5) (positive control); (3) solution containing 1.88 × 10−5m StatpSpS. Four times a day, the volunteers administered one drop of the solutions (50 μL, 1 min) on each specimen. After the treatment, erosive challenges were performed extraorally with 0.01 m HCl (pH 2.0, 4 times/day, 1 min, 150 mL). Enamel wear was assessed by profilometry. Data were analyzed by one-way RM-ANOVA/Bonferroni’s tests (p < 0.05). Results: In terms of the treatments, both the commercial solution (SnCl2/NaF/AmF) and StatpSpS significantly reduced the wear when compared to the negative control (p < 0.01), without significant differences between them (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The solution containing StatpSpS demonstrated protection against enamel intrinsic erosive wear. This study marks a significant advancement in the prevention of intrinsic erosive wear, utilizing StatpSpS in acquired pellicle engineering procedures.
“La Homeopatía no es Efecto Placebo” Comprobación de las Evidencias Científicas en Homeopatía
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Medicina, Teixeira Marcus Zulian
Published: September 2024

La homeopatía es una práctica médica reconocida mundialmente desde hace más de dos siglos que emplea un enfoque clínico basado en principios científicos heterodoxos y complementarios (principio de similitud terapéutica, experimentación patogénica homeopática, uso de medicamentos individualizados y em dosis dinamizadas o potenciadas), con el objetivo de despertar una respuesta curativa en el organismo. Basada en premisas diferentes a las utilizadas por la práctica médica convencional, la homeopatía es a menudo objeto de críticas. Con el objetivo de esclarecer a médicos, investigadores, profesionales de la salud y el público en general, desmitificando cualquier posición dogmática, este trabajo tiene como objetivo actualizar y clarificar el conocimiento en el área. Además de dilucidar en detalle las premisas epistemológicas del modelo homeopático, el trabajo describe los diversos aspectos de la investigación básica y clínica, que avalan la práctica y el tratamiento homeopático en un continuo de información, datos y referencias bibliográficas. El trabajo aborda varios temas relacionados con la investigación en homeopatía, que van desde la “epidemiología clínica homeopática” hasta las “estrategias pseudoescépticas y pseudocientíficas utilizadas en los ataques a la homeopatía”, pasando por la “base farmacológica del principio de similitud”, “estudios experimentales en modelos biológicos”, “ensayos clínicos controlados aleatorios”, “revisiones sistemáticas, metaanálisis e informes globales” y “estudios observacionales”, entre otros. Actuando como una terapia integradora y complementaria a otras especialidades, la homeopatía puede agregar eficacia, efectividad, eficiencia y seguridad a la práctica médica, actuando de manera curativa y preventiva, reduciendo las manifestaciones sintomáticas y la predisposición a la enfermedad, con bajo costo y mínimos eventos adversos.