bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managing the work stress of inpatient nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review of organizational interventions
Authors: Zink Maria , Pischke Frederike , Wendsche Johannes , Melzer Marlen
Published: September 2024

Background

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, inpatient nurses faced various work stressors. Little is known about organizational interventions that can mitigate the negative consequences of pandemic-related stressors.

Objective

The aim was to provide a synopsis of the literature concerning the types and outcomes of organizational interventions performed during the COVID-19 pandemic that directly (re)organized the work structures of inpatient nurses to address pandemic-related work stressors or to increase nurses’ ability to cope.

Methods

Within this preregistered systematic literature review, we searched four databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, CINAHL) and two preprint databases (MedRxiv, PsyArXiv) for interventional studies of organizational interventions published between 01/2020 and 03/2023 (k = 990 records). We included 12 primary studies after title-abstract and full-text screening. A synthesis of results without meta-analysis was conducted. Risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials – version 2 (RoB-2) and Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies - of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool.

Results

All interventions were implemented in hospitals. The reasons given for implementation included pandemic-related work stressors such as a high workload, understaffing, and a lack of medical resources. To respond to the various work stressors, half of the studies took a multilevel approach combining organizational and person-oriented interventions (k = 6). Most studies (k = 8) took a secondary prevention approach, focusing on the organization of rest breaks (k = 5). With respect to outcomes, the studies examined nurse-related stress and resilience, turnover intention, job satisfaction, and other factors. Risk-of-bias analyses revealed that conclusions about the effectiveness of the interventions are limited due to confounding factors and self-selection.

Conclusions

The identified interventions provide a basis for future research to draw conclusions on the effectiveness of organizational interventions during pandemics. The promotion of adequate work breaks could be useful if the work stressors associated with strain and negative consequences cannot be changed directly. However, the same stressors (e.g., high workload) can hinder nurses from participating in offered interventions. This emphasizes the importance of directly addressing inpatient nurses’ work stressors.

Registration

Prospero-ID CRD42023364807 (March 2023).
Age- and ethnic-driven molecular and clinical disparity of East Asian breast cancers
Authors: Lee Ji Yoon , Lee Ji Won , Chung Min Sung , Choi Jong Gwon , Sim Sung Hoon , Kim Hyo Jeong , Kim Jeong Eun , Lee Kyoung Eun , Park Yeon Hee , Kang Myoung Joo , Ahn Mi Sun , Chae Yee Soo , Park Ji Hyun , Kim Jee Hyun , Kim Gun Min , Byun Jae Ho , Park Keon Uk , Kim Ju Won , Jung Seung Pil , Lee Jung Hyun , An Jung Seok , Jang Byunghyun , Yoon Dayoung , Kim Jiwon , Hong Jisoo , Koo Harim , Cho Kyu Ran , Kim Cheol Yong , Sa Jason K. , Park Kyong Hwa
Published: September 2024

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is a complex disease with profound genomic aberrations. However, the underlying molecular disparity influenced by age and ethnicity remains elusive.

Methods

In this study, we aimed to investigate the molecular properties of 843 primary and metastatic BC patients enrolled in the K-MASTER program. By categorizing patients into two distinct age subgroups, we explored their unique molecular properties. Additionally, we leveraged large-scale genomic data from the TCGA and MSK-IMPACT studies to examine the ethnic-driven molecular and clinical disparities.

Results

We observed a high prevalence of PI3KCA mutations in K-MASTER HER2 + tumors, particularly in older patients. Moreover, we identified increased mutation rates in DNA damage response molecules, including ARID1A, MSH6, and MLH1. The K-MASTER patients were mainly comprised of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and HER2-positive tumors, while the TCGA and MSK-IMPACT cohorts exhibited a predominance of hormone receptor-positive (HR +) subtype tumors. Importantly, GATA3 mutations were less frequently observed in East Asian patients, which correlated with poor clinical outcomes. In addition to characterizing the molecular disparities, we developed a gradient-boosting multivariable model to identify a new molecular signature that could predict the therapeutic response to platinum-based chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Our findings collectively provide unprecedented insights into the significance of age and ethnicity on the molecular and clinical characteristics of BC patients.
An oncolytic HSV-1 vector induces a therapeutic adaptive immune response against glioblastoma
Authors: Reale Alberto , Gatta Andrea , Shaik Amruth Kaleem Basha , Shallak Mariam , Chiaravalli Anna Maria , Cerati Michele , Zaccaria Martina , La Rosa Stefano , Calistri Arianna , Accolla Roberto Sergio , Forlani Greta
Published: September 2024

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most frequent and aggressive brain tumor in adults with the lowest survival rates five years post-diagnosis. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) selectively target and damage cancer cells, and for this reason they are being investigated as new therapeutic tools also against GBM.

Methods

An oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (oHSV-1) with deletions in the γ34.5 neurovirulence gene and the US12 gene, expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP-oHSV-1) as reporter gene was generated and tested for its capacity to infect and kill the murine GL261 glioblastoma (GBM) cell line. Syngeneic mice were orthotopically injected with GL261cells. Seven days post-implantation, EGFP-oHSV-1 was administered intratumorally. Twenty-one days after parental tumor challenge in the opposite brain hemisphere, mice were sacrified and their brains were analysed by immunohistochemistry to assess tumor presence and cell infiltrate.

Results

oHSV-1 replicates and induces cell death of GL261 cells in vitro. A single intracranial injection of EGFP-oHSV-1 in established GL261 tumors significantly prolongs survival in all treated mice compared to placebo treatment. Notably, 45% of treated mice became long-term survivors, and rejected GL261 cells upon rechallenge in the contralateral brain hemisphere, indicating an anamnestic antitumoral immune response. Post-mortem analysis revealed a profound modification of the tumor microenvironment with increased infiltration of CD4 + and CD8 + T lymphocytes, intertumoral vascular collapse and activation and redistribution of macrophage, microglia, and astroglia in the tumor area, with the formation of intense fibrotic tissue suggestive of complete rejection in long-term survivor mice.

Conclusions

EGFP-oHSV1 demonstrates potent antitumoral activity in an immunocompetent GBM model as a monotherapy, resulting from direct cell killing combined with the stimulation of a protective adaptive immune response. These results open the way to possible application of our strategy in clinical setting.
Modulation of cannabinoid receptor 2 alters neuroinflammation and reduces formation of alpha-synuclein aggregates in a rat model of nigral synucleinopathy
Authors: Joers Valerie , Murray Benjamin C , McLaughlin Caroline , Oliver Danielle , Staley Hannah E. , Coronado Jazmyn , Achat-Mendes Cindy , Golshani Sanam , Kelly Sean D. , Goodson Matthew , Lee Danica , Manfredsson Fredric P. , Moore II Bob M. , Tansey Malú Gámez
Published: September 2024

Research into the disequilibrium of microglial phenotypes has become an area of intense focus in neurodegenerative disease as a potential mechanism that contributes to chronic neuroinflammation and neuronal loss in Parkinson’s disease (PD). There is growing evidence that neuroinflammation accompanies and may promote progression of alpha-synuclein (Asyn)-induced nigral dopaminergic (DA) degeneration. From a therapeutic perspective, development of immunomodulatory strategies that dampen overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines from chronically activated immune cells and induce a pro-phagocytic phenotype is expected to promote Asyn removal and protect vulnerable neurons. Cannabinoid receptor-2 (CB2) is highly expressed on activated microglia and peripheral immune cells, is upregulated in the substantia nigra of individuals with PD and in mouse models of nigral degeneration. Furthermore, modulation of CB2 protects against rotenone-induced nigral degeneration; however, CB2 has not been pharmacologically and selectively targeted in an Asyn model of PD. Here, we report that 7 weeks of peripheral administration of CB2 inverse agonist SMM-189 reduced phosphorylated (pSer129) Asyn in the substantia nigra compared to vehicle treatment. Additionally, SMM-189 delayed Asyn-induced immune cell infiltration into the brain as determined by flow cytometry, increased CD68 protein expression, and elevated wound-healing-immune-mediator gene expression. Additionally, peripheral immune cells increased wound-healing non-classical monocytes and decreased pro-inflammatory classical monocytes. In vitro analysis of RAW264.7 macrophages treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and SMM-189 revealed increased phagocytosis as measured by the uptake of fluorescence of pHrodo E. coli bioparticles. Together, results suggest that targeting CB2 with SMM-189 skews immune cell function toward a phagocytic phenotype and reduces toxic aggregated species of Asyn. Our novel findings demonstrate that CB2 may be a target to modulate inflammatory and immune responses in proteinopathies.
Knockdown of microglial iron import gene, Slc11a2, worsens cognitive function and alters microglial transcriptional landscape in a sex-specific manner in the APP/PS1 model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Robertson Katrina Volk , Rodriguez Alec S. , Cartailler Jean-Philippe , Shrestha Shristi , Schleh Michael W. , Schroeder Kyle R. , Valenti Arianna M. , Kramer Alec T. , Harrison Fiona E. , Hasty Alyssa H.
Published: September 2024

Background

Microglial cell iron load and inflammatory activation are significant hallmarks of late-stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In vitro, microglia preferentially upregulate the iron importer, divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1, gene name Slc11a2) in response to inflammatory stimuli, and excess iron can augment cellular inflammation, suggesting a feed-forward loop between iron import mechanisms and inflammatory signaling. However, it is not understood whether microglial iron import mechanisms directly contribute to inflammatory signaling and chronic disease in vivo. These studies determined the effects of microglial-specific knockdown of Slc11a2 on AD-related cognitive decline and microglial transcriptional phenotype.

Methods

In vitro experiments and RT-qPCR were used to assess a role for DMT1 in amyloid-β-associated inflammation. To determine the effects of microglial Slc11a2 knockdown on AD-related phenotypes in vivo, triple-transgenic Cx3cr1Cre−ERT2;Slc11a2flfl;APP/PS1+or – mice were generated and administered corn oil or tamoxifen to induce knockdown at 5–6 months of age. Both sexes underwent behavioral analyses to assess cognition and memory (12–15 months of age). Hippocampal CD11b+ microglia were magnetically isolated from female mice (15–17 months) and bulk RNA-sequencing analysis was conducted.

Results

DMT1 inhibition in vitro robustly decreased Aβ-induced inflammatory gene expression and cellular iron levels in conditions of excess iron. In vivo, Slc11a2KDAPP/PS1 female, but not male, mice displayed a significant worsening of memory function in Morris water maze and a fear conditioning assay, along with significant hyperactivity compared to control WT and APP/PS1 mice. Hippocampal microglia from Slc11a2KDAPP/PS1 females displayed significant increases in Enpp2, Ttr, and the iron-export gene, Slc40a1, compared to control APP/PS1 cells. Slc11a2KD cells from APP/PS1 females also exhibited decreased expression of markers associated with subsets of disease-associated microglia (DAMs), such as Apoe, Ctsb, Ly9, Csf1, and Hif1α.

Conclusions

This work suggests a sex-specific role for microglial iron import gene Slc11a2 in propagating behavioral and cognitive phenotypes in the APP/PS1 model of AD. These data also highlight an association between loss of a DAM-like phenotype in microglia and cognitive deficits in Slc11a2KDAPP/PS1 female mice. Overall, this work illuminates an iron-related pathway in microglia that may serve a protective role during disease and offers insight into mechanisms behind disease-related sex differences.
Enhancing stroke rehabilitation with whole-hand haptic rendering: development and clinical usability evaluation of a novel upper-limb rehabilitation device
Authors: Rätz Raphael , Conti François , Thaler Irène , Müri René M. , Marchal-Crespo Laura
Published: September 2024

Introduction

There is currently a lack of easy-to-use and effective robotic devices for upper-limb rehabilitation after stroke. Importantly, most current systems lack the provision of somatosensory information that is congruent with the virtual training task. This paper introduces a novel haptic robotic system designed for upper-limb rehabilitation, focusing on enhancing sensorimotor rehabilitation through comprehensive haptic rendering.

Methods

We developed a novel haptic rehabilitation device with a unique combination of degrees of freedom that allows the virtual training of functional reach and grasp tasks, where we use a physics engine-based haptic rendering method to render whole-hand interactions between the patients’ hands and virtual tangible objects. To evaluate the feasibility of our system, we performed a clinical mixed-method usability study with seven patients and seven therapists working in neurorehabilitation. We employed standardized questionnaires to gather quantitative data and performed semi-structured interviews with all participants to gain qualitative insights into the perceived usability and usefulness of our technological solution.

Results

The device demonstrated ease of use and adaptability to various hand sizes without extensive setup. Therapists and patients reported high satisfaction levels, with the system facilitating engaging and meaningful rehabilitation exercises. Participants provided notably positive feedback, particularly emphasizing the system’s available degrees of freedom and its haptic rendering capabilities. Therapists expressed confidence in the transferability of sensorimotor skills learned with our system to activities of daily living, although further investigation is needed to confirm this.

Conclusion

The novel haptic robotic system effectively supports upper-limb rehabilitation post-stroke, offering high-fidelity haptic feedback and engaging training tasks. Its clinical usability, combined with positive feedback from both therapists and patients, underscores its potential to enhance robotic neurorehabilitation.
COVID-19 risk factors and outcomes in individuals with stiff person syndrome spectrum disorders before and after omicron
Authors: Afshar Hanyeh , Simpson Alexandra , Taylor Elena , Miles Ashley , Chen Herbert R. , Newsome Scott D.
Published: September 2024

Background

Stiff person syndrome spectrum disorders (SPSD) are rare, disabling disorders of the nervous system that are associated with risk factors for Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, limited data exist on the overall impact of COVID-19 on SPSD.

Methods

Patients with SPSD and COVID-19 who are followed at Johns Hopkins SPS Center were included. Demographics and SPSD characteristics along with COVID-19-specific data were recorded.

Results

Thirty-five cases of SPSD with COVID-19 cases were reported during the study time period. Mean age of the cohort was 56 (SD ± 10) and most were female (66.7%). Eighty percent of the COVID-19 cases were confirmed with testing, and the rest were highly suggestive of COVID-19. COVID-19 comorbidities among patients were hypertension (n = 6), diabetes (n = 6), obesity (n = 5), and cardiovascular disease (n = 4). The majority of participants were on immune therapies and/or benzodiazepines. Out of the cases reported, only 2 required hospitalization, both of whom had diabetes, and one was on immunosuppressive therapy. The majority of cases were post-full-vaccination cases. Fever was the most common COVID-19-associated symptom. Transient neurological symptoms were also reported.

Conclusion

Risk factors for developing severe COVID-19 in SPSD appear to be the same as historical data in the general population. Importantly, COVID-19 did not appear to be associated with worsening SPSD post-COVID-19. Vaccination may have played a role in preventing severe cases of COVID-19.
Postnatal management of preterm infants with spinal muscular atrophy: experience from German newborn screening
Authors: Trollmann Regina , Johannsen Jessika , Vill Katharina , Köhler Cornelia , Hahn Andreas , Illsinger Sabine , Pechmann Astrid , Hagen Maja von der , Müller-Felber Wolfgang
Published: September 2024

Background

The introduction of newborn screening (NBS) for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) has increased the early diagnosis of 5q-associated SMA in presymptomatic and symptomatic preterm infants. National and international recommendations for treating preterms and newborns < 38 weeks of gestational age are unavailable. Our retrospective multicentre study aimed to evaluate the postnatal clinical course of preterm infants with 5q-associated SMA diagnosed since the implementation of NBS in Germany in 2021 and to summarize the German experience regarding the decision-making process for available treatment regimens for preterm infants with ≤ 3 survival of motor neuron 2 (SMN2) copies.

Results

Twelve preterm infants with 5q-associated SMA and a mean gestational age of 34.0 weeks (range: 26.1–36.8) and birth weight of 2022 g (range: 645–3370) were reported from 8/20 German SMA NBS follow-up centers using a pseudonymized questionnaire. Confirmatory diagnosis, including SMN2 copy number, was completed on average on postnatal day 13. All patients had a biallelic deletion of exon 7 or exons 7 and 8 of the survival of motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene, with SMN2 copy numbers of two in 10 patients and three in two patients. The neonatal course was complicated by respiratory distress due to prematurity (n = 2), sepsis (n = 2), and jaundice (n = 2). At birth, 11 preterm infants (91.6%) were presymptomatic. However, the neurological status of one patient deteriorated at five weeks of age (postconceptional age of 41.8 weeks) prior to the start of treatment. Disease-modifying treatments were initiated in all patients at a mean postconceptional age of 38.8 weeks, with the majority receiving onasemnogene abeparvovec (83.3%, including 2 patients with prior risdiplam bridge therapy). Notably, consensus among participating experts from German neuromuscular centers resulted in 83.3% of patients receiving disease-modifying treatment at term.

Conclusions

Premature infants with SMA require interdisciplinary care in close collaboration with the neuromuscular center. SMA NBS facilitates early initiation of disease-modifying therapy, ideally during the presymptomatic phase, which significantly influences the prognosis of the newborn.
γ-Aminobutyric acid type A receptor β1 subunit gene polymorphisms are associated with the sedative and amnesic effects of midazolam
Authors: Kosaki Yoshihiko , Nishizawa Daisuke , Hasegawa Junko , Yoshida Kaori , Ikeda Kazutaka , Ichinohe Tatsuya
Published: September 2024

Midazolam is widely used for intravenous sedation. However, wide interindividual variability is seen in the sensitivity to midazolam. The association between genetic factors and interindividual differences in midazolam sensitivity remains unclear. The present study explored the association between common genetic variants and sedative and amnesic effects of midazolam. This prospective study included patients who were scheduled to undergo dental procedures under intravenous sedation. The sedative effect was evaluated using the Ramsay sedation scale 5 min after midazolam (0.05 mg/kg) administration. We employed two parallel approaches in this study: genome-wide approach and candidate gene approach. The γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor subunit genes were selected as candidate genes. Multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between the Ramsay sedation scale and genetic variants. We also analyzed the association between the presence of anterograde amnesia and genetic variants using multivariate binominal logistic regression analyses. The analyses were adjusted for potential confounding factors. A total of 191 patients were included in the analyses. In the genome-wide association analyses, no significant association was found between the genetic variants and Ramsay scores. In the candidate gene analyses, the rs73247636 (dominant model: β = 0.72 [95% confidence interval, 0.34 to 1.10], P < 0.001) and rs56278524 (dominant model: β = 0.73 [0.37 to 1.10], P < 0.001) polymorphisms of the GABRB1 gene were significantly associated with Ramsay scores. Additionally, the rs73247636 (dominant model: odds ratio [OR] = 8.39 [2.36 to 29.85], P = 0.001) and rs56278524 (dominant model: OR = 15.26 [3.42 to 68.07], P < 0.001) polymorphisms were also significantly associated with the presence of anterograde amnesia. The rs73247636 and rs56278524 single-nucleotide polymorphisms of GABRB1 were associated with the sedative and amnesic effects of midazolam.
OPTimising MEDicine information handover after Discharge (OPTMED-D): protocol for development of a multifaceted intervention and stepped wedge cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hattingh Laetitia , Baysari Melissa T. , Foot Holly , Sim Tin Fei , Keijzers Gerben , Morgan Mark , Scott Ian , Norman Richard , Yong Faith , Mullan Barbara , Jackson Claire , Oldfield Leslie E. , Manias Elizabeth
Published: September 2024

Background

General practitioners (GP) and community pharmacists need information about hospital discharge patients’ medicines to continue their management in the community. This necessitates effective communication, collaboration, and reliable information-sharing. However, such handover is inconsistent, and whilst digital systems are in place to transfer information at transitions of care, these systems are passive and clinicians are not prompted about patients’ transitions. There are also gaps in communication between community pharmacists and GPs. These issues impact patient safety, leading to hospital readmissions and increased healthcare costs.

Methods

A three-phased, multi-method study design is planned to trial a multifaceted intervention to reduce 30-day hospital readmissions. Phase 1 is the co-design of the intervention with stakeholders and end-users; phase 2 is the development of the intervention; phase 3 is a stepped wedge cluster randomised controlled trial with 20 clusters (community pharmacies). Expected intervention components will be a hospital pharmacist navigator, primary care medication management review services, and a digital solution for information sharing. Phase 3 will recruit 10 patients per pharmacy cluster/month to achieve a sample size of 2200 patients powered to detect a 5% absolute reduction in unplanned readmissions from 10% in the control group to 5% in the intervention at 30 days. The randomisation and intervention will occur at the level of the patient’s nominated community pharmacy. Primary analysis will be a comparison of 30-day medication-related hospital readmissions between intervention and control clusters using a mixed effects Poisson regression model with a random effect for cluster (pharmacy) and a fixed effect for each step to account for secular trends.

Trial registration

This trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12624000480583p, registered 19 April 2024.
Causal effects of cardiovascular health on five epigenetic clocks
Authors: Sung Hsien-Liang , Lin Wan-Yu
Published: September 2024

Background

This work delves into the relationship between cardiovascular health (CVH) and aging. Previous studies have shown an association of ideal CVH with a slower aging rate, measured by epigenetic age acceleration (EAA). However, the causal relationship between CVH and EAA has remained unexplored.

Methods and results

We performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on the (12-point) CVH score and its components using the Taiwan Biobank data, in which weighted genetic risk scores were treated as instrumental variables. Subsequently, we conducted a one-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis with the two-stage least-squares method on 2383 participants to examine the causal relationship between the (12-point) CVH score and EAA. As a result, we observed a significant causal effect of the CVH score on GrimAge acceleration (GrimEAA) (β[SE]: − 0.993 [0.363] year;p = 0.0063) and DNA methylation-based plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (DNAmPAI-1) (β [SE]: − 0.294 [0.099] standard deviation (sd) of DNAmPAI-1;p = 0.0030). Digging individual CVH components in depth, the ideal total cholesterol score (0 [poor], 1 [intermediate], or 2 [ideal]) was causally associated with DNAmPAI-1 (β[SE]: − 0.452 [0.150] sd of DNAmPAI-1; false discovery rate [FDR]q = 0.0102). The ideal body mass index (BMI) score was causally associated with GrimEAA (β [SE]: − 2.382 [0.952] years; FDRq = 0.0498) and DunedinPACE (β[SE]: − 0.097 [0.030]; FDRq = 0.0044). We also performed a two-sample MR analysis using the summary statistics from European GWAS. We observed that the (12-point) CVH score exhibits a significant causal effect on Horvath’s intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration (β[SE]: − 0.389 [0.186] years;p = 0.036) and GrimEAA (β [SE]: − 0.526 [0.244] years;p = 0.031). Furthermore, we detected causal effects of BMI (β[SE]: 0.599 [0.081] years;q = 2.91E-12), never smoking (β[SE]: − 2.981 [0.524] years;q = 1.63E-7), walking (β[SE]: − 4.313 [1.236] years;q = 0.004), and dried fruit intake (β[SE]: − 1.523 [0.504] years;q = 0.013) on GrimEAA in the European population.

Conclusions

Our research confirms the causal link between maintaining an ideal CVH and epigenetic age. It provides a tangible pathway for individuals to improve their health and potentially slow aging.
A practical risk stratification system based on ultrasonography and clinical characteristics for predicting the malignancy of soft tissue masses
Authors: Zhang Ying-Lun , Wu Meng-Jie , Hu Yu , Peng Xiao-Jing , Ma Qian , Mao Cui-Lian , Dong Ye , Wei Zong-Kai , Gao Ying-Qian , Yao Qi-Yu , Yao Jing , Ye Xin-Hua , Li Ju-Ming , Li Ao
Published: September 2024

Objective

To establish a practical risk stratification system (RSS) based on ultrasonography (US) and clinical characteristics for predicting soft tissue masses (STMs) malignancy.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study included patients with STMs who underwent US and pathological examinations between April 2018 and April 2023. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association of US and clinical characteristics with the malignancy of STMs in the training set. The RSS was constructed based on the scores of risk factors and validated externally.

Results

The training and validation sets included 1027 STMs (mean age, 50.90 ± 16.64, 442 benign and 585 malignant) and 120 STMs (mean age, 51.93 ± 17.90, 69 benign and 51 malignant), respectively. The RSS was constructed based on three clinical characteristics (age, duration, and history of malignancy) and six US characteristics (size, shape, margin, echogenicity, bone invasion, and vascularity). STMs were assigned to six categories in the RSS, including no abnormal findings, benign, probably benign (fitted probabilities [FP] for malignancy: 0.001–0.008), low suspicion (FP: 0.008–0.365), moderate suspicion (FP: 0.189–0.911), and high suspicion (FP: 0.798–0.999) for malignancy. The RSS displayed good diagnostic performance in the training and validation sets with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of 0.883 and 0.849, respectively.

Conclusion

The practical RSS based on US and clinical characteristics could be useful for predicting STM malignancy, thereby providing the benefit of timely treatment strategy management to STM patients.

Critical relevance statement

With the help of the RSS, better communication between radiologists and clinicians can be realized, thus facilitating tumor management.

Key Points

There is no recognized grading system for STM management.

A stratification system based on US and clinical features was built.

The system realized great communication between radiologists and clinicians in tumor management.

Graphical Abstract
LINC01197 inhibits influenza A virus replication by serving as a PABPC1 decoy
Authors: Wang Yihe , Shi Ning , Zhang Hansi , Luo Jinna , Yan Hongjian , Hou Huiyan , Guan Zhenhong , Zhao Lili , Duan Ming
Published: September 2024

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) significantly impact animal and human health due to their zoonotic potential. A growing body of evidence indicates that the host’s long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in regulating host–virus interactions during IAV infection. However, numerous lncRNAs associated with IAV infection have not been well characterised. Here, in this study, we identify the LINC01197 as an antiviral host factor. LINC01197 was significantly upregulated after IAV infection, which is controlled by the NF-κB pathway. Functional analysis revealed that overexpression of LINC01197 inhibited IAV replication and virus production, while knockdown of LINC01197 facilitated IAV replication. Mechanistically, LINC01197 directly interacts with poly(A) binding protein cytoplasmic 1 (PABPC1), which in turn sequesters and restricts its functions. This work shows that LINC01197 acts as a protein decoy, suppressing IAV replication and playing a key role in controlling IAV replication.
Interpersonal and individual effects of an app-based Christian and Islamic heart meditation intervention in healthy adults: protocol of a stratified randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ng Chung Fei , Farias Miguel , Brazil Inti A.
Published: September 2024

Background

The academic development and widespread adoption of meditation practices for well-being and therapy have predominantly focused on secularised adaptations of Buddhist and Hindu techniques. This study aims to expand the field by investigating Christian and Islamic meditation that emphasize the spiritual significance of the heart through elements of visualisation and recitation. It compares the effects of spiritual heart-centred meditation with mindfulness meditation and a waitlist control, focusing on dimensions of social functioning, psychophysiology, cognition, and mental health.

Method

This study employs a stratified 3-arm randomised controlled method with mixed-method repeated measures across three assessment time points: before intervention (T1), after an 8-week intervention (T2), and at a 3-month follow up (T3). The three conditions include spiritual meditation (either Christian or Islamic), mindfulness meditation (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction – MBSR), and a waitlist. Participants will be stratified into Christian and Muslim samples and randomly allocated to the spiritual meditation, MBSR, or waitlist control conditions. Importantly, participants assigned to the spiritual meditation condition will be matched to the spiritual meditation program corresponding to their religion. The intervention will be administered through a mobile phone app with daily 20-minute guided meditation sessions for eight weeks. Primary outcomes pertain to the domain of interpersonal functioning, focusing on prosociality, forgiveness, empathy, and perspective taking. Secondary outcomes include physiology: pain tolerance, pain intensity, stress reactivity assessed via heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV), psychophysiological reactivity associated with a forgiveness task as measured through HR and HRV, attention (alerting, orienting, and executive attention networks), and mental health (stress, depression, anxiety, subjective well-being, positive and negative affect).

Discussion

This trial aims to test the effects of an app-based Christian and Islamic meditation, compared to secular mindfulness and a waitlist, using a randomised controlled trial. If the results yield positive outcomes, this study will support the efficacy of these contemplations, offering practitioners a way to enhance their well-being within their religious framework.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06136676. Registered on 18 November 2023.

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06136676.
Single-cell sequencing to multi-omics: technologies and applications
Authors: Wu Xiangyu , Yang Xin , Dai Yunhan , Zhao Zihan , Zhu Junmeng , Guo Hongqian , Yang Rong
Published: September 2024

Cells, as the fundamental units of life, contain multidimensional spatiotemporal information. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is revolutionizing biomedical science by analyzing cellular state and intercellular heterogeneity. Undoubtedly, single-cell transcriptomics has emerged as one of the most vibrant research fields today. With the optimization and innovation of single-cell sequencing technologies, the intricate multidimensional details concealed within cells are gradually unveiled. The combination of scRNA-seq and other multi-omics is at the forefront of the single-cell field. This involves simultaneously measuring various omics data within individual cells, expanding our understanding across a broader spectrum of dimensions. Single-cell multi-omics precisely captures the multidimensional aspects of single-cell transcriptomes, immune repertoire, spatial information, temporal information, epitopes, and other omics in diverse spatiotemporal contexts. In addition to depicting the cell atlas of normal or diseased tissues, it also provides a cornerstone for studying cell differentiation and development patterns, disease heterogeneity, drug resistance mechanisms, and treatment strategies. Herein, we review traditional single-cell sequencing technologies and outline the latest advancements in single-cell multi-omics. We summarize the current status and challenges of applying single-cell multi-omics technologies to biological research and clinical applications. Finally, we discuss the limitations and challenges of single-cell multi-omics and potential strategies to address them.
Recent biotechnological applications of value-added bioactive compounds from microalgae and seaweeds
Authors: Eladl Salma N. , Elnabawy Aya M. , Eltanahy Eladl G.
Published: September 2024

Microalgae and seaweed have been consumed as food for several decades to combat starvation and food shortages worldwide. The most famous edible microalgae species are Nostoc, Spirulina, and Aphanizomenon, in addition to seaweeds, which are used in traditional medicine and food, such as Nori, which is one of the most popular foods containing Pyropia alga as a major ingredient. Recently, many applications use algae-derived polysaccharides such as agar, alginate, carrageenan, cellulose, fucoidan, mannan, laminarin, ulvan, and xylan as gelling agents in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics industries. Moreover, pigments (carotenoids particularly astaxanthins, chlorophylls, and phycobilins), minerals, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, peptides, proteins, polyphenols, and diterpenes compounds are accumulated under specific cultivation and stress conditions in the algal cells to be harvested and their biomass used as a feedstock for the relevant industries and applications. No less critical is the use of algae in bioremediation, thus contributing significantly to environmental sustainability.

This review will explore and discuss the various applications of microalgae and seaweeds, emphasising their role in bioremediation, recent products with algal added-value compounds that are now on the market, and novel under-developing applications such as bioplastics and nanoparticle production. Nonetheless, special attention is also drawn towards the limitations of these applications and the technologies applied, and how they may be overcome.
Neighborhood predictors of suicide and firearm suicide in Detroit, Michigan
Authors: Smirniotis Colette , Pear Veronica A. , Kagawa Rose M. C.
Published: September 2024

Background

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States with rates increasing over the past two decades. The rate of suicide is higher in rural areas, but a greater number of people in urban areas die by suicide; understanding risk factors for suicide in this context is critically important to public health. Additionally, while many studies have focused on individual-level risk factors, few studies have identified social or structural features associated with suicide or firearm suicide, especially among young people.

Methods

Study outcomes included total firearm suicide, total youth (age 10–29) firearm suicide, total suicide, and total youth suicide in Detroit, Michigan from 2012 through 2019. The predictors in this study included 58 census-tract level variables characterizing the physical features, residential stability, socioeconomic status, and demographics of neighborhoods in Detroit over the study period. We used random forest, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and generalized linear mixed models to predict the four outcomes.

Results

We found that the tract-level variables used in all three modeling approaches performed poorly at predicting the suicide outcomes, with area under the curve values at times exceeding 0.60 but with extremely low sensitivity (ranging from 0.05 to 0.45). However, the percentage of parcels sold in arms-length transfers in the previous 5 years, the count of vacant lots per square mile, and the percentage of children aged three and older who were enrolled in preschool each demonstrated associations with at least two of the outcomes studied.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest place-based factors at the tract level do not provide meaningful insight into the risk of suicide or firearm suicide among youth or the general population in Detroit, Michigan. Future practice and study should consider focusing on both larger and smaller areas, including city and individual-level factors. For example, studies might benefit from the use of both neighborhood and individual-level measures and their interactions to improve our understanding of place-based risk factors and suicide risk.
Multiomic biomarkers after cardiac arrest
Authors: Stopa Victoria , Lileikyte Gabriele , Bakochi Anahita , Agarwal Prasoon , Beske Rasmus , Stammet Pascal , Hassager Christian , Årman Filip , Nielsen Niklas , Devaux Yvan
Published: September 2024

Cardiac arrest is a sudden cessation of heart function, leading to an abrupt loss of blood flow and oxygen to vital organs. This life-threatening emergency requires immediate medical intervention and can lead to severe neurological injury or death. Methods and biomarkers to predict neurological outcome are available but lack accuracy. Such methods would allow personalizing healthcare and help clinical decisions. Extensive research has been conducted to identify prognostic omic biomarkers of cardiac arrest. With the emergence of technologies allowing to combine different levels of omics data, and with the help of artificial intelligence and machine learning, there is a potential to use multiomic signatures as prognostic biomarkers after cardiac arrest. This review article delves into the current knowledge of cardiac arrest biomarkers across various omic fields and suggests directions for future research aiming to integrate multiple omics data layers to improve outcome prediction and cardiac arrest patient’s care.
Influence of loop diuretics on denosumab-induced hypocalcaemia in osteoporosis: a retrospective observational analysis
Authors: Hirai Toshinori , Mori Yukari , Ogura Toru , Kondo Yuki , Sakazaki Yuka , Ishitsuka Yoichi , Sudo Akihiro , Iwamoto Takuya
Published: September 2024

Background

We examined whether denosumab-induced hypocalcaemia is evident in osteoporosis when given loop diuretics that promote urinary calcium excretion.

Methods

Japanese Spontaneous Adverse Drug Event Reports was analyzed to examine signals for denosumab-induced hypocalcaemia co-administered loop diuretics. We retrospectively included osteoporotic patients to detect predictors for denosumab-induced hypocalcaemia (corrected calcium level < 8.5 mg/dL) using multivariate logistic regression analysis. We compared differences in corrected calcium levels (ΔCa = nadir-baseline).

Results

A significant signal for hypocalcaemia was detected (Reporting odds ratio = 865.8, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 596.8 to 1255.9, p < 0.0001). Among 164 patients (hypocalcaemia, 12%), loop diuretics have a significant association with hypocalcaemia (odds ratio [OR] = 6.410, 95% CI: 1.005 to 40.90, p = 0.0494). However, hypocalcaemia was found to be lower in high corrected calcium levels at baseline (OR = 0.032, 95% CI: 0.005 to 0.209, p < 0.0001) and calcium and vitamin D supplementation (OR = 0.285, 95% CI: 0.094 to 0.868, p = 0.0270). In the non-hypocalcaemia, ΔCa decreased significantly in the denosumab plus loop diuretics than in the denosumab alone (-0.9 [-1.3 to -0.7] mg/dL vs. -0.5 [-0.8 to -0.3] mg/dL, p = 0.0156). However, ΔCa remained comparable in the hypocalcaemia despite loop diuretics co-administration (-1.0 [-1.2 to -0.8] mg/dL vs. -0.8 [-1.5 to -0.7] mg/dL, p = 0.7904).

Conclusions

Loop diuretics may predispose to developing denosumab-induced hypocalcaemia.
On-water Rowing Biomechanical Assessment: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Legge Natalie , Draper Conny , Slattery Katie , O’Meara Damien , Watsford Mark
Published: September 2024

Background

Biomechanical parameters can distinguish a skilled rower from a less skilled rower and can provide coaches with meaningful feedback and objective evidence to inform coaching practices on rowing technique. Therefore, it is critical to understand which technical characteristics can be related to the fundamental rowing performance indicators. The aim of this systematic scoping review was to describe the current focus and density of rowing biomechanics research specific to on-water rowing and provide a guide for practitioners and researchers on future directions for on-water rowing biomechanics research.

Methods

All peer-reviewed publications involving the on-water assessment of rowing biomechanics were reviewed from four databases (SPORTDiscus, PubMed, Sage online journals, and Web of Science). Search results returned 1659 records, of which 27 studies met the inclusion criteria for the review.

Results

All reported variables were collated and summarised according to the three main measurements of basic mechanics: time, space and force. Study characteristics were collated to provide a descriptive overview of the literature. The main categorical variables included time, distance, velocity, acceleration, force, power and crew synchrony.

Conclusion

Data extraction revealed gate force, horizontal oar angle and boat velocity as the most reported variables with numerous subcategories of metrics within each measure. A framework to help guide and standardise on-water rowing biomechanical assessment and the establishment of standards for environmental data collection could help guide practitioners and researchers in the on-water rowing environment. This scoping review was registered on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/8q5vw/).
Talking back to white Italy: unpacking the knot of racism, colonialism and feminism from the perspective of Black asylum-seeking and refugee women
Authors: Samnick Yvette , Michelis Ilaria
Published: September 2024

The relationship between feminist movements and racialised migrant women in Europe remains marred by the continued marginalisation of migrant women’s political claims in feminist struggles, despite the circulation of intersectional discourses within academic and activist circles. This article documents important spaces of experimentation which Black activists are creating within the Italian feminist movement to give voice to racialised migrant women without the mediating intervention of white feminists. Rooted in an understanding of the margins as a site of resistance, such efforts engage in practices of refusal and talking back to reclaim a Black epistemic identity which powerfully interpellates Italian institutions and feminist activists. Black migrant women demand the recognition not only of their inherent capacity to speak, act, decide, but also of their ability to articulate a political analysis and a political project to challenge the intersectional discrimination and violence they face. Their struggle centres work as a site of compounding gendered and racialised exploitation, thus carrying the potential to expand feminist thinking and action on reproductive labour, labour participation and equal pay.
Challenges in the diagnosis of anti-NMDAR disease in a young male patient: a case report
Authors: Abd El Hamid Nouran Alaa , Baghdady Sumaya , Baghdadi Michael , Rizkallah Mina , Soliman Nourhan A. , Nawito Amani M. , Kishk Nirmeen
Published: September 2024

Background

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune disorder that is increasingly recognized as an important cause of autoimmune encephalitis. It is especially important to consider, because its symptoms can be severe, yet potentially treatable. The best outcome depends on prompt immunotherapy and complete tumor removal if present. Its diverse presentations often cause delay in its diagnosis and treatment.

Case presentation

We describe here a 15-year-old male who developed anti-NMDA encephalitis that was a particular challenge to diagnose. The course of his disease was also complicated with sinus thrombosis. He received immunotherapy in the form of IV steroids, plasma exchange, IVIG and finally rituximab together with anticoagulation resulting in complete improvement in his condition.

Conclusions

Anti-NMDAR disease should be suspected in any young individual who develops encephalopathy associated with seizures, psychiatric symptoms and/or movement disorders. Identification of NMDAR antibodies confirms the diagnosis and should prompt early intervention with immunotherapy and neoplastic workup.
Vertebral artery dissection from etiopathogenesis to management therapy: a narrative review with neuroimaging’s case illustration
Authors: Amran Muhammad Yunus , Hawari Irbab , La’biran Fitri Jafani , Gunadi Siti Giranti Ardilia , Muslich Lisa Tenriesa
Published: September 2024

Vertebral artery dissection is one of the causes of stroke and transient ischemic attack in young adults, with an incidence rate of 1.0–1.1 per 100,000 people. Vertebral artery dissection occurs due to a tear in the vertebral artery wall, which results in blood flow entering the blood vessel wall. The etiology of vertebral artery dissection is very diverse, which can be classified as intrinsic (such as anatomical abnormalities of the blood vessels) or extrinsic (such as trauma), and there are several rarer causes. The most frequent clinical manifestations include stroke, transient ischemic attack, neck pain, headaches, and vertigo. Management in this case comprises treatment according to symptoms in the form of intravenous thrombolysis, administering antithrombotic drugs, and endovascular therapy.