bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing patient engagement in mental health chatbots: A thematic analysis of findings from a systematic review of reviews
Authors: Khosravi Mohsen , Azar Ghazaleh
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Mental health disorders affect millions of people worldwide. Chatbots are a new technology that can help users with mental health issues by providing innovative features. This article aimed to conduct a systematic review of reviews on chatbots in mental health services and synthesized the evidence on the factors influencing patient engagement with chatbots.

Methods

This study reviewed the literature from 2000 to 2024 using qualitative analysis. The authors conducted a systematic search of several databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and Cochrane database of systematic reviews, to identify relevant studies on the topic. The quality of the selected studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme appraisal checklist and the data obtained from the systematic review were subjected to a thematic analysis utilizing the Boyatzis's code development approach.

Results

The database search resulted in 1494 papers, of which 10 were included in the study after the screening process. The quality assessment of the included studies scored the papers within a moderate level. The thematic analysis revealed four main themes: chatbot design, chatbot outcomes, user perceptions, and user characteristics.

Conclusion

The research proposed some ways to use color and music in chatbot design. It also provided a systematic and multidimensional analysis of the factors, offered some insights for chatbot developers and researchers, and highlighted the potential of chatbots to improve patient-centered and person-centered care in mental health services.
Bridging Activism and Party Politics: Mapping Frame Alignment Processes in Politicians’ Use of Hashtags
Authors: Östin Emma , Lindgren Simon
Published: April 2024

The use of hashtags has become an effective tool for activists to mobilize public support. This study explores whether, and in what ways, such hashtags have been adopted by politicians in power. Conducting a systematic, cross-national analysis, we examine how politicians use, what we call, activism-related hashtags. Using data from the Twitter Parliamentarian Database, we analyze the hashtagging practices of politicians in 10 countries: Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The analysis explores what types of hashtags politicians use, and to what extent these tags are activism-related. We also analyze what activist causes hashtags used by politicians are related to, to better understand what causes are the most palatable to politicians. We further analyze qualitatively how the activism-related hashtags are used by the politicians. Through a combination of thematic analysis and frame analysis, we find that, in relation to the wide range of hashtags that politicians use, activism-related hashtags constitute a limited share. Our analysis also indicates that although politicians do indeed use activism-related hashtags, this can be for many different reasons and purposes, beyond merely supporting the cause or position of the original activist initiative. We find that politicians may join in with the key contention behind the hashtag, renegotiate the meaning of the hashtag to be able to align party-political ideologies with it, or engage with it by questioning or subverting it.
Preferences, Acceptability and Usage of Mobile Health Applications Among Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Multisite, Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Ravi Ramya Kundayi , Baby Priya , Pareek Bharat , George T Jisa , Mohamed Mona Gamal , Ahmed Sirwan Khalid
Published: April 2024

Introduction and objective

Mobile health applications (mHealth) can bring revolutionary changes to health care by making it more accessible, cost-effective, and efficient. The successful adoption of mHealth is largely determined by its acceptance by providers and end users. The acceptance of mHealth among nursing students, who are the future nurses, needs to be understood. This study aimed to determine the preferences, acceptability, and usage of mHealth applications among undergraduate nursing students.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in two selected universities in southern and northern India. A convenience sample of 567 undergraduate nursing students was recruited for the study. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire via Google Forms.

Results

mHealth applications were presently used by 32.9% of the students. The most common types of mHealth applications used were diet related (27.6%) and lifestyle related (23.4%). The majority of nursing students were willing to use mobile phones for consulting health professionals (78.8%) for prevention and management of health and disease. (83.1%), and for emergencies (73.3%). While more than half of the students were willing to recommend mHealth applications for patients, those students who were using two or more mHealth apps were more likely to recommend the same for the patients.

Conclusion

The results of the study highlight about the usage of mobile health applications among the nursing students. The students consider mHealth applications to be useful for delivering health-related services to end users. The study underscores the need to sensitize students about the possible usage of mHealth in healthcare delivery.
Clinical Outcomes in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure Patients with Reduced Ejection Fraction and Impaired Renal Function–A Study Comparing Levosimendan and Dobutamine
Authors: Parvathareddy Krishna Mala Konda Reddy , Syed Zia Hussain , Birajdar Avinash , Nagula Praveen , Ravi Srinivas , Syed Imamuddin , Karumuri Suneetha
Published: April 2024

Background

Cardiorenal syndrome is a disorder in which renal function is affected by heart failure (HF) or vice versa. It occurs in 20% of HF patients. The most common reason for hospitalization is acute decompensation (ADHF). Diuretics and inodilators are the standard of treatment in the management. Our objective was to demonstrate that levosimendan is more effective than dobutamine in improving the outcome of ADHF patients with a low ejection fraction (EF) and impaired kidney function.

Material and methods

The study was carried out between January to December 2022. Patients with ADHF, a low EF (<40%) on echocardiography, and decreased renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] >15 and <60 mL/min/m2) were included. All patients have given consent. The study was approved by the institutional ethical committee. The estimated study sample size was 18 in each group, and as the study continued, we enrolled 60 patients, who were divided into two equal groups (30 in each). The patients were assigned either levosimendan or dobutamine based on preassigned numbers in the software. The clinical characteristics (serum creatinine, eGFR, EF, cardiac output, and cardiac index) were measured on the first, seventh, and at one month (30 days).

Results

Of the 60 patients, 40 were men and 20 were women. The mean age was (50 ± 8.9 vs 50.8 ± 11.2) years. Of the comorbidities, hypertension was seen in 83.3% followed by diabetes (56.7%). Serum creatinine levels in both groups at admission and 30 days were (2.2 ± 0.3 vs. 2.5 ± 0.7, P = 0.1) and (1.6 ± 0.4 vs. 2.4 ± 0.8, P = 0.05). The eGFR of both groups at admission and 30 days follow up was (32.6 ± 9.1 vs. 28.2 ± 11.4, P = 0.2) and (40 ± 15.5 vs. 29.4 ± 12.6, P = 0.05). At 30 days, the predetermined outcomes in terms of improvement in EF, cardiac output, improved eGFR and cardiac index were better in the levosimendan compared to dobutamine group significantly.

Conclusion

In ADHF patients with decreased EF and poor renal function, levosimendan improved renal and cardiac indices more than dobutamine at 30 days of follow up.
Exploring gender-based spatio-temporal patterns of informal street vending: A case study in Fangshan District, Beijing, China
Authors: Wang Xueying , Sun Jiachun , Scott Iain , Sun Ziwen
Published: April 2024

Many studies have shown that, due largely to family and socio-cultural influences, women prefer part-time and flexible employment, which aligns with the character of informal street vending. However, unlike many other workers, female vendors must consider the temporary use of space and co-produce an ever-changing environment that interacts with a diverse range of people with heterogeneous demands, a phenomenon that has received little research attention. Using spatial-temporal behavior mapping and on-site observations at three street spaces in Fangshan District, Beijing, China, we examined the spatio-temporal behavioral patterns of female vendors and explored gender differences in the type, mode, spatial meaning, and time of informal vending in the Chinese urban context. Our results indicate that when vending space is limited, male vendors tend to cluster; female vendors are more dispersed, and more likely to occupy spaces with unfavorable selling environments. When there are fewer vendors on the site, female vendors sell closer to the inner side of the street (i.e., less accessibility compared with male vendors). Most female vendors sell relatively lightweight and small goods with low profit margins. Male vendors tend to occupy fixed stalls and utilize heavier transport equipment, while female vendors are more likely to be flexible in location and use lightweight transport equipment. Furthermore, female vendors are more likely than male vendors to operate during weekdays and in daylight hours than on the weekends and at night. We also attempted to understand the potential reasons for gender differences in temporary space use, and informal socio-economic co-production, in urban street contexts. Our study provides further scientific basis for the promotion of more inclusive, vibrant, and healthy urban environments by considering the largely overlooked group of informal female street vendors and their temporary inhabitation and use of urban street space.
Computer programming a chatbot to improve social-communication skills in autistic children: A feasibility study
Authors: Halabieh Sarah , Lai Meng-Chuan , Lin Hsiang-Yuan , Shu L. H.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

A pilot study evaluated the feasibility of a curriculum that overtly teaches computer programming while covertly scaffolding social-communication skills for autistic children aged 8–12 years.

Methods

Participants were taught the Python programming language so they could program their own chatbots to greet a human user and discuss different topics, taking turns during the discussion, as though the chatbot were a human itself. The students were challenged with creating chatbots that pass the ‘Turing Test’, where a human evaluator would not be able to tell whether their chatbots were humans or computer programs. The curriculum included didactic instruction, peer-group discussion, homework and the chatbot project. Six autistic children participated in the six-session program. Feasibility was assessed using questionnaires and qualitative feedback.

Results

The curriculum is deemed feasible and desirable. There was no measurable change in social-communication skills immediately following the six-session program. Participants and their parents were highly interested in similar programs in the future, suggesting promising potential for further development and refinement.

Conclusion

A curriculum of programming a chatbot that also covertly scaffolds social communication is feasible for autistic children who are interested in computer programming.
Capitalizing on Hope: Questionable Marketing Approval and Pricing of a New ALS Drug
Authors: Flynn Matthew B. , Flynn James F. , Palacios Ana M.
Published: April 2024

Regulatory agencies must balance patient demands to access new treatments for fatal diseases with limited treatment options while ensuring drug safety and efficacy. However, questionable U.S. regulatory actions resulted in the early approval of AMX0035 to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by reconvening advisory commissions to obtain positive decisions and designating the drug as a new molecular entity. Data from one randomized clinical trial suggests minimal delays in disease progression and longer survivability, but debate remains about the lack of confirmatory evidence of effectiveness owing to study limitations. A patient's decision-making process details the experience of using the drug, including perspectives on access, cost, effectiveness, and adverse effects. In line with the “nichebuster” business model, the drugmaker, Amylyx Pharmaceuticals, is charging US$158,000/year/patient and thus forecast to turn a profit on a drug with debatable clinical effectiveness prior to completing a Phase 3 trial. Early marketing approval, despite community demands, is unnecessary and may have reduced access because of the end of a compassionate use program, and the high price tag results in restricted coverage and high out-of-pocket costs. Also, the drug's key ingredients are available as a generic and a supplement.
Procoagulant platelets promote immune evasion in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Schaubaecher Johanna B. , Smiljanov Bojan , Haring Florian , Steiger Katja , Wu Zhengquan , Ugurluoglu Anais , Luft Joshua , Ballke Simone , Mahameed Shaan , Schneewind Vera , Hildinger Jonas , Canis Martin , Mittmann Laura A. , Braun Constanze , Zuchtriegel Gabriele , Kaiser Rainer , Nicolai Leo , Mack Matthias , Weichert Wilko , Lauber Kirsten , Uhl Bernd , Reichel Christoph A.
Published: April 2024

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive tumor entity in which immune checkpoint (IC) molecules are primarily synthesized in the tumor environment. Here, we report that procoagulant platelets bear large amounts of such immunomodulatory factors and that the presence of these cellular blood components in TNBC relates to protumorigenic immune-cell activity and impaired survival. Mechanistically, tumor-released nucleic acids attract platelets to the aberrant tumor microvasculature, where they undergo procoagulant activation, thus delivering specific stimulatory and inhibitory IC molecules. This concomitantly promotes protumorigenic myeloid leukocyte responses and compromises antitumorigenic lymphocyte activity, ultimately supporting tumor growth. Interference with platelet-leukocyte interactions prevented immune cell misguidance and suppressed tumor progression, nearly as effective as systemic IC inhibition. Hence, our data uncover a self-sustaining mechanism of TNBC by using platelets to misdirect immune-cell responses. Targeting this irregular multicellular interplay may represent a novel immunotherapeutic strategy for TNBC without the adverse effects of systemic IC inhibition.
Elk1 enhances inflammatory cell infiltration and exacerbates acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome by suppressing Fcgr2b transcription
Authors: Wei Shiyou , Ling Dandan , Zhong Jingui , Chang Rui , Ling Xinyu , Chen Zhigang , Duan Ruowang
Published: April 2024

Objective

Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are associated with significant mortality rates. The role of Fcgr2b in the pathogenesis of ALI/ARDS is not fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the functions of Fcgr2b in ALI/ARDS and explore its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Methods: In this study, rat models of ARDS and pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell (PMVEC) injury models were established through the administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The expression levels of Fcgr2b and Elk1 were quantified in both LPS-induced ARDS rats and PMVECs. Subsequent gain- and loss-of-function experiments were conducted, followed by comprehensive assessments of lung tissue for pathomorphological changes, edema, glycogen storage, fibrosis, and infiltration of inflammatory cells. Additionally, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was analyzed for T-helper 17 (Th17) cell infiltration, inflammatory response, and microvascular permeability to evaluate lung injury severity in ARDS models. Furthermore, the activity, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and angiogenic potential of PMVECs were assessed to gauge cell injury. The interaction between Elk1 and Fcgr2b was also examined to confirm their regulatory relationship.

Results

In the context of LPS-induced ARDS and PMVEC injury, Fcgr2b expression was markedly reduced, whereas Elk1 expression was elevated. Overexpression of Fcgr2b led to a decrease in Th17 cell infiltration and mitigated lung tissue damage in ARDS models, in addition to reducing LPS-induced injury in PMVECs. Elk1 was found to suppress Fcgr2b transcription through the recruitment of histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3). Knockdown of Elk1 diminished Th17 cell infiltration and lung tissue damage in ARDS models, and alleviated LPS-induced injury in PMVECs, effects that were reversed upon Fcgr2b upregulation.

Conclusion

Elk1 negatively regulates Fcgr2b transcription, thereby augmenting the inflammatory response and exacerbating lung injury in LPS-induced ALI/ARDS.
Evolution of myxozoan mitochondrial genomes: insights from myxobolids
Authors: Sandberg Tatiana Orli Milkewitz , Yahalomi Dayana , Bracha Noam , Haddas-Sasson Michal , Pupko Tal , Atkinson Stephen D. , Bartholomew Jerri L. , Zhang Jin Yong , Huchon Dorothée
Published: April 2024

Background

Myxozoa is a class of cnidarian parasites that encompasses over 2,400 species. Phylogenetic relationships among myxozoans remain highly debated, owing to both a lack of informative morphological characters and a shortage of molecular markers. Mitochondrial (mt) genomes are a common marker in phylogeny and biogeography. However, only five complete myxozoan mt genomes have been sequenced: four belonging to two closely related genera,EnteromyxumandKudoa, and one from the genusMyxobolus. Interestingly, while cytochrome oxidase genes could be identified inEnteromyxumandKudoa, no such genes were found inMyxobolus squamalis, and another member of the Myxobolidae (Henneguya salminicola) was found to have lost its entire mt genome. To evaluate the utility of mt genomes to reconstruct myxozoan relationships and to understand if the loss of cytochrome oxidase genes is a characteristic of myxobolids, we sequenced the mt genome of five myxozoans (Myxobolus wulii, M. honghuensis,M. shantungensis, Thelohanellus kitaueiand,Sphaeromyxa zaharoni) using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms.

Results

UnlikeEnteromyxum, which possesses a partitioned mt genome, the five mt genomes were encoded on single circular chromosomes. An mt plasmid was found inM. wulii, as described previously inKudoa iwatai. In all new myxozoan genomes, five protein-coding genes (cob, cox1, cox2, nad1, andnad5) and two rRNAs (rnlandrns) were recognized, but no tRNA. We found thatMyxobolusandThelohanellusspecies shared unidentified reading frames, supporting the view that these mt open reading frames are functional. Our phylogenetic reconstructions based on the five conserved mt genes agree with previously published trees based on the 18S rRNA gene.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the loss of cytochrome oxidase genes is not a characteristic of all myxobolids, the ancestral myxozoan mt genome was likely encoded on a single circular chromosome, and mt plasmids exist in a few lineages. Our findings indicate that myxozoan mt sequences are poor markers for reconstructing myxozoan phylogenetic relationships because of their fast-evolutionary rates and the abundance of repeated elements, which complicates assembly.
Multiple transcriptome analyses reveal mouse testis developmental dynamics
Authors: Chen Anqi , Ji Chaoneng , Li Chengtao , Brand-Saberi Beate , Zhang Suhua
Published: April 2024

The testes are the organs of gamete production and testosterone synthesis. Up to date, no model system is available for mammalian testicular development, and only few studies have characterized the mouse testis transcriptome from no more than three postnatal ages. To describe the transcriptome landscape of the developing mouse testis and identify the potential molecular mechanisms underlying testis maturation, we examined multiple RNA-seq data of mouse testes from 3-week-old (puberty) to 11-week-old (adult). Sperm cells appeared as expected in 5-week-old mouse testis, suggesting the proper sample collection. The principal components analysis revealed the genes from 3w to 4w clustered away from other timepoints, indicating they may be the important nodes for testicular development. The pairwise comparisons at two adjacent timepoints identified 7,612 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), resulting in 58 unique mRNA expression patterns. Enrichment analysis identified functions in tissue morphogenesis (3-4w), regulation of peptidase activity (4-5w), spermatogenesis (7-8w), and antigen processing (10-11w), suggesting distinct functions in different developmental periods. 50 hub genes and 10 gene cluster modules were identified in the testis maturation process by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, and the miRNA-lncRNA-mRNA, miRNA-circRNA-mRNA and miRNA-circRNA-lncRNA-mRNA competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks were constructed. The results suggest that testis maturation is a complex developmental process modulated by various molecules, and that some potential RNA-RNA interactions may be involved in specific developmental stages. In summary, this study provides an update on the molecular basis of testis development, which may help to understand the molecular mechanisms of mouse testis development and provide guidance for mouse reproduction.
Comparative physiological, biochemical, metabolomic, and transcriptomic analyses reveal the formation mechanism of heartwood for Acacia melanoxylon
Authors: Zhang Ruping , Zhang Zhiwei , Yan Caizhen , Chen Zhaoli , Li Xiangyang , Zeng Bingshan , Hu Bing
Published: April 2024

Acacia melanoxylon is well known as a valuable commercial tree species owing to its high-quality heartwood (HW) products. However, the metabolism and regulatory mechanism of heartwood during wood development remain largely unclear. In this study, both microscopic observation and content determination proved that total amount of starches decreased and phenolics and flavonoids increased gradually from sapwood (SW) to HW. We also obtained the metabolite profiles of 10 metabolites related to phenolics and flavonoids during HW formation by metabolomics. Additionally, we collected a comprehensive overview of genes associated with the biosynthesis of sugars, terpenoids, phenolics, and flavonoids using RNA-seq. A total of ninety-one genes related to HW formation were identified. The transcripts related to plant hormones, programmed cell death (PCD), and dehydration were increased in transition zone (TZ) than in SW. The results of RT-PCR showed that the relative expression level of genes and transcription factors was also high in the TZ, regardless of the horizontal or vertical direction of the trunk. Therefore, the HW formation took place in the TZ for A. melanoxylon from molecular level, and potentially connected to plant hormones, PCD, and cell dehydration. Besides, the increased expression of sugar and terpenoid biosynthesis-related genes in TZ further confirmed the close connection between terpenoid biosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolites of A. melanoxylon. Furthermore, the integrated analysis of metabolism data and RNA-seq data showed the key transcription factors (TFs) regulating flavonoids and phenolics accumulation in HW, including negative correlation TFs (WRKY, MYB) and positive correlation TFs (AP2, bZIP, CBF, PB1, and TCP). And, the genes and metabolites from phenylpropanoid and flavonoid metabolism and biosynthesis were up-regulated and largely accumulated in TZ and HW, respectively. The findings of this research provide a basis for comprehending the buildup of metabolites and the molecular regulatory processes of HW formation in A. melanoxylon.
Effect of genotyping errors on linkage map construction based on repeated chip analysis of two recombinant inbred line populations in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Wang Xinru , Wang Jiankang , Xia Xianchun , Xu Xiaowan , Li Lingli , Cao Shuanghe , Hao Yuanfeng , Zhang Luyan
Published: April 2024

Linkage maps are essential for genetic mapping of phenotypic traits, gene map-based cloning, and marker-assisted selection in breeding applications. Construction of a high-quality saturated map requires high-quality genotypic data on a large number of molecular markers. Errors in genotyping cannot be completely avoided, no matter what platform is used. When genotyping error reaches a threshold level, it will seriously affect the accuracy of the constructed map and the reliability of consequent genetic studies. In this study, repeated genotyping of two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations derived from crosses Yangxiaomai × Zhongyou 9507 and Jingshuang 16 × Bainong 64 was used to investigate the effect of genotyping errors on linkage map construction. Inconsistent data points between the two replications were regarded as genotyping errors, which were classified into three types. Genotyping errors were treated as missing values, and therefore the non-erroneous data set was generated. Firstly, linkage maps were constructed using the two replicates as well as the non-erroneous data set. Secondly, error correction methods implemented in software packages QTL IciMapping (EC) and Genotype-Corrector (GC) were applied to the two replicates. Linkage maps were therefore constructed based on the corrected genotypes and then compared with those from the non-erroneous data set. Simulation study was performed by considering different levels of genotyping errors to investigate the impact of errors and the accuracy of error correction methods. Results indicated that map length and marker order differed among the two replicates and the non-erroneous data sets in both RIL populations. For both actual and simulated populations, map length was expanded as the increase in error rate, and the correlation coefficient between linkage and physical maps became lower. Map quality can be improved by repeated genotyping and error correction algorithm. When it is impossible to genotype the whole mapping population repeatedly, 30% would be recommended in repeated genotyping. The EC method had a much lower false positive rate than did the GC method under different error rates. This study systematically expounded the impact of genotyping errors on linkage analysis, providing potential guidelines for improving the accuracy of linkage maps in the presence of genotyping errors.
Analyzing genetic diversity in luffa and developing a Fusarium wilt-susceptible linked SNP marker through a single plant genome-wide association (sp-GWAS) study
Authors: Li Yun-Da , Liu Yu-Chi , Jiang Yu-Xuan , Namisy Ahmed , Chung Wen-Hsin , Sun Ying-Hsuan , Chen Shu-Yun
Published: April 2024

Background

Luffa (Luffa spp.) is an economically important crop of the Cucurbitaceae family, commonly known as sponge gourd or vegetable gourd. It is an annual cross-pollinated crop primarily found in the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas. Luffa serves not only as a vegetable but also exhibits medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects. Moreover, the fiber derived from luffa finds extensive applications in various fields such as biotechnology and construction. However, luffa Fusarium wilt poses a severe threat to its production, and existing control methods have proven ineffective in terms of cost-effectiveness and environmental considerations. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop luffa varieties resistant to Fusarium wilt. Single-plant GWAS (sp-GWAS) has been demonstrated as a promising tool for the rapid and efficient identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with target traits, as well as closely linked molecular markers.

Results

In this study, a collection of 97 individuals from 73 luffa accessions including two major luffa species underwent single-plant GWAS to investigate luffa Fusarium wilt resistance. Utilizing the double digest restriction site associated DNA (ddRAD) method, a total of 8,919 high-quality single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified. The analysis revealed the potential for Fusarium wilt resistance in accessions from both luffa species. There are 6 QTLs identified from 3 traits, including the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC), a putative disease-resistant QTL, was identified on the second chromosome of luffa. Within the region of linkage disequilibrium, a candidate gene homologous to LOC111009722, which encodes peroxidase 40 and is associated with disease resistance in Cucumis melo, was identified. Furthermore, to validate the applicability of the marker associated with resistance from sp-GWAS, an additional set of 21 individual luffa plants were tested, exhibiting 93.75% accuracy in detecting susceptible of luffa species L. aegyptiaca Mill.

Conclusion

In summary, these findings give a hint of genome position that may contribute to luffa wild resistance to Fusarium and can be utilized in the future luffa wilt resistant breeding programs aimed at developing wilt-resistant varieties by using the susceptible-linked SNP marker.
Comparison of bicarbonate Ringer’s solution with lactated Ringer’s solution among postoperative outcomes in patients with laparoscopic right hemihepatectomy: a single-centre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Song Jie , Liu Yingying , Li Yun , Huang Xiaoci , Zhang Muchun , Liu Xiaofeng , Hu Xianwen
Published: April 2024

The study was aimed to investigate the positive impact of bicarbonate Ringer’s solution on postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent laparoscopic right hemihepatectomy. Patients in the two groups were infused with lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS, n = 38) and the bicarbonate Ringer’s solution (BRS, n = 38) at a rate of 5 ml·kg–1·h–1. The stroke volume was monitored and 200 ml of hydroxyethyl starch with 130/0.4 sodium chloride injection (Hes) of a bolus was given in the first 5–10 min. The main outcome was to test lactic acid (LAC) concentration before and after surgery. The concentrations of LAC in the LRS group were higher than in the BRS group at 2 h after operation began, at the end of the operation and 2 h after the operation. Overall, the parameters including pH, base excess (BE), HCO3−, aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were improved. The values of bilirubin in the LRS group were higher and albumin were lower than in the BRS group at post-operation 1st and 2nd day (P<0.05). The time of prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) in the LRS group were longer than that in the BRS group at post-operation 1st and 2nd day (P<0.05). Likewise, the concentrations of Mg2+, Na+ and K+ also varied significantly. The length of hospital was reduced, and the incidence of premature ventricular contractions (P = 0.042) and total complications (P = 0.016) were lower in group BRS.

Trial registration

The study was registered at clinicalTrials.gov with the number ChiCTR2000038077 on 09/09/2020.
Prediction of walking speed one year following hip fracture based on pre-fracture assessments of mobility and physical activity
Authors: Heiberg Kristi Elisabeth , Beckmann Monica , Bruun-Olsen Vigdis
Published: April 2024

Background

Older people with hip fracture are often medically frail, and many do not regain their walking ability and level of physical activity. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between pre-fracture recalled mobility, fear of falling, physical activity, walking habits and walking speed one year after hip fracture.

Methods

The study had a longitudinal design. Measurements were performed 3–5 days postoperatively (baseline) and at one year after the hip fracture. The measurements at baseline were all subjective outcome measures recalled from pre-fracture: The New Mobility Scale (NMS), the ‘Walking Habits’ questionnaire, The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Activity Scale, Fear of Falling International (FES-I) and demographic variables. At one year 4-meter walking speed, which was a part of the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) was assessed.

Results

At baseline 207 participants were included and 151 were assessed after one year. Their age was mean (SD) 82.7 (8.3) years (range 65–99 years). Those with the fastest walking speed at one year had a pre-fracture habit of regular walks with a duration of ≥ 30 min and/or a frequency of regular walks of 5–7 days a week. Age (p =.020), number of comorbidities (p <.001), recalled NMS (p <.001), and recalled UCLA Activity Scale (p =.007) were identified as predictors of walking speed at one year. The total model explained 54% of the variance in walking speed.

Conclusions

Duration and frequency of regular walks before the hip fracture play a role in walking speed recovery one year following the fracture. Subjective outcome measures of mobility and physical activity, recalled from pre-fracture can predict walking speed at one year. They are gentle on the old and medically frail patients in the acute phase after hip fracture, as well as clinically less time consuming.
Assessing the relationship between multimorbidity, NCD configurations, frailty phenotypes, and mortality risk in older adults
Authors: Ogaz-González Rafael , Corpeleijn Eva , García-Chanes Rosa Estela , Gutierréz-Robledo Luis Miguel , Escamilla-Santiago Ricardo Antonio , López-Cervantes Malaquías
Published: April 2024

Background

Older adults are increasingly susceptible to prolonged illness, multiple chronic diseases, and disabilities, which can lead to the coexistence of multimorbidity and frailty. Multimorbidity may result in various noncommunicable disease (NCD) patterns or configurations that could be associated with frailty and death. Mortality risk may vary depending on the presence of specific chronic diseases configurations or frailty.

Methods

The aim was to examine the impact of NCD configurations on mortality risk among older adults with distinct frailty phenotypes. The population was analyzed from the Costa Rican Longevity and Healthy Aging Study Cohort (CRELES). A total of 2,662 adults aged 60 or older were included and followed for 5 years. Exploratory factor analysis and various clustering techniques were utilized to identify NCD configurations. The frequency of NCD accumulation was also assessed for a multimorbidity definition. Frailty phenotypes were set according to Fried et al. criteria. Kaplan‒Meier survival analyses, mortality rates, and Cox proportional hazards models were estimated.

Results

Four different types of patterns were identified: ‘Neuro-psychiatric’, ‘Metabolic’, ‘Cardiovascular’, and ‘Mixt’ configurations. These configurations showed a higher mortality risk than the mere accumulation of NCDs [Cardiovascular HR:1.65 (1.07–2.57); ‘Mixt’ HR:1.49 (1.00-2.22); ≥3 NCDs HR:1.31 (1.09–1.58)]. Frailty exhibited a high and constant mortality risk, irrespective of the presence of any NCD configuration or multimorbidity definition. However, HRs decreased and lost statistical significance when phenotypes were considered in the Cox models [frailty + ‘Cardiovascular’ HR:1.56 (1.00-2.42); frailty + ‘Mixt’:1.42 (0.95–2.11); and frailty + ≥ 3 NCDs HR:1.23 (1.02–1.49)].

Conclusions

Frailty accompanying multimorbidity emerges as a more crucial indicator of mortality risk than multimorbidity alone. Therefore, studying NCD configurations is worthwhile as they may offer improved risk profiles for mortality as alternatives to straightforward counts.
Stigma and mental health among people living with HIV across the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Di Gennaro Francesco , Papagni Roberta , Segala Francesco Vladimiro , Pellegrino Carmen , Panico Gianfranco Giorgio , Frallonardo Luisa , Diella Lucia , Belati Alessandra , Santoro Carmen Rita , Brindicci Gaetano , Balena Flavia , Bavaro Davide Fiore , Montalbò Domenico , Guido Giacomo , Calluso Lina , Di Tullio Marilisa , Sgambati Margherita , Fiordelisi Deborah , De Gennaro Nicolò , Saracino Annalisa
Published: April 2024

Background

Mental health (MH) is extremely relevant when referring to people living with a chronic disease, such as people living with HIV (PLWH). In fact – although life expectancy and quality have increased since the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART) – PLWH carry a high incidence of mental disorders, and this burden has been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this scenario, UNAIDS has set new objectives for 2025, such as the linkage of at least 90% of PLWH to people-centered, context-specific MH services. Aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of MD in PLWH followed at the Clinic of Infectious Diseases of the University of Bari, Italy.

Methods

From January 10th to September 10th, 2022, all PLWH patients accessing our outpatient clinic were offered the following standardized tools: HAM-A for anxiety, BDI-II for depression, PC-PTSD-5 for post-traumatic stress disorder, CAGE-AID for alcohol-drug abuse. Factors associated with testing positive to the four MD were explored with a multivariable logistic regression model.

Results

578 out of 1110 HIV-patients agreed to receive MH screening, with 141 (24.4%) people resulting positive to at least one MH disorder. HAM-A was positive in 15.8% (n = 91), BDI-II in 18% (n = 104), PC-PTSD-5 in 5% (n = 29) and CAGE in 6.1% (n = 35). The multivariable logistic regression showed a higher probability of being diagnosed with anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder for PLWH who reported severe stigma, social isolation, psychological deterioration during the COVID-19 pandemic and for those receiving a dolutegravir (DTG)-based regimen. Moreover, history of drug use (OR 1.13; [95% CE 1.06–4.35]), family stigma (2.42 [1.65–3.94]) and social isolation (2.72 [1.55;4.84]) were found to be associated to higher risk for substance use disorder.

Conclusions

In this study, stigma was a strong predictor for being diagnosed of a MH disorder among PLWH. Also, the possible role of dolutegravir as a risk factor for the onset of MH disorders should be considered in clinical practice, and MH of patients receiving DTG-containing regimens should be constantly monitored.
Post-COVID reactivation of latent Bartonella henselae infection: a case report and literature review
Authors: Dong Yanzhao , Alhaskawi Ahmad , Zou Xiaodi , Zhou Haiying , Ezzi Sohaib Hasan Abdullah , Kota Vishnu Goutham , Abdulla Mohamed Hasan Abdulla Hasan , Olga Alenikova , Abdalbary Sahar Ahmed , Lu Hui
Published: April 2024

Cat scratch disease (CSD) is caused by Bartonella henselae (B. henselae) and presents as lymphadenopathy following close contact with cats. However, in context of the global COVID-19 pandemic, clinical manifestations of CSD may vary, posing new challenges for healthcare professionals. Here we describe a case of a 54-year-old male with painful left upper arm mass, which gradually resolved until he was infected with COVID-19. The mass then rapidly progressed before admission. Meanwhile, pulmonary symptoms including pleural effusion emerged simultaneously. The cause was undetermined with routine blood culture and pathological test until the next generation sequencing (NGS) confirmed the presence of B. henselae. We believe this case is the first to report localized aggravation of CSD after COVID-19 infection and hopefully, offers treatment experience for clinicians worldwide.
Contrast-induced acute kidney injury: a review of definition, pathogenesis, risk factors, prevention and treatment
Authors: Li Yanyan , Wang Junda
Published: April 2024

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) has become the third leading cause of hospital-acquired AKI, which seriously threatens the health of patients. To date, the precise pathogenesis of CI-AKI has remained not clear and may be related to the direct cytotoxicity, hypoxia and ischemia of medulla, and oxidative stress caused by iodine contrast medium, which have diverse physicochemical properties, including cytotoxicity, permeability and viscosity. The latest research shows that microRNAs (miRNAs) are also involved in apoptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy which caused by iodine contrast medium (ICM), which may be implicated in the pathogenesis of CI-AKI. Unfortunately, effective therapy of CI-AKI is very limited at present. Therefore, effective prevention of CI-AKI is of great significance, and several preventive options, including hydration, antagonistic vasoconstriction, and antioxidant drugs, have been developed. Here, we review current knowledge about the features of iodine contrast medium, the definition, pathogenesis, molecular mechanism, risk factors, prevention and treatment of CI-AKI.
The influence of maternal prepregnancy weight and gestational weight gain on the umbilical cord blood metabolome: a case–control study
Authors: Yuan Xianxian , Ma Yuru , Wang Jia , Zhao Yan , Zheng Wei , Yang Ruihua , Zhang Lirui , Yan Xin , Li Guanghui
Published: April 2024

Background

Maternal overweight/obesity and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) are frequently reported to be risk factors for obesity and other metabolic disorders in offspring. Cord blood metabolites provide information on fetal nutritional and metabolic health and could provide an early window of detection of potential health issues among newborns. The aim of the study was to explore the impact of maternal prepregnancy overweight/obesity and excessive GWG on cord blood metabolic profiles.

Methods

A case control study including 33 pairs of mothers with prepregnancy overweight/obesity and their neonates, 30 pairs of mothers with excessive GWG and their neonates, and 32 control mother-neonate pairs. Untargeted metabolomic profiling of umbilical cord blood samples were performed using UHPLC‒MS/MS.

Results

Forty-six metabolites exhibited a significant increase and 60 metabolites exhibited a significant reduction in umbilical cord blood from overweight and obese mothers compared with mothers with normal body weight. Steroid hormone biosynthesis and neuroactive ligand‒receptor interactions were the two top-ranking pathways enriched with these metabolites (P = 0.01 and 0.03, respectively). Compared with mothers with normal GWG, in mothers with excessive GWG, the levels of 63 metabolites were increased and those of 46 metabolites were decreased in umbilical cord blood. Biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids was the most altered pathway enriched with these metabolites (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Prepregnancy overweight and obesity affected the fetal steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway, while excessive GWG affected fetal fatty acid metabolism. This emphasizes the importance of preconception weight loss and maintaining an appropriate GWG, which are beneficial for the long-term metabolic health of offspring.
PROTAC EZH2 degrader-1 overcomes the resistance of podophyllotoxin derivatives in refractory small cell lung cancer with leptomeningeal metastasis
Authors: Shi Min-xing , Ding Xi , Tang Liang , Cao Wei-jun , Su Bo , Zhang Jie
Published: April 2024

Background

Leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly detrimental occurrence associated with severe neurological disorders, lacking effective treatment currently. Proteolysis-targeting chimeric molecules (PROTACs) may provide new therapeutic avenues for treatment of podophyllotoxin derivatives-resistant SCLC with LM, warranting further exploration.

Methods

The SCLC cell line H128 expressing luciferase were mutated by MNNG to generate H128-Mut cell line. After subcutaneous inoculation of H128-Mut into nude mice, H128-LM and H128-BPM (brain parenchymal metastasis) cell lines were primarily cultured from LM and BPM tissues individually, and employed to in vitro drug testing. The SCLC-LM mouse model was established by inoculating H128-LM into nude mice via carotid artery and subjected to in vivo drug testing. RNA-seq and immunoblotting were conducted to uncover the molecular targets for LM.

Results

The SCLC-LM mouse model was successfully established, confirmed by in vivo live imaging and histological examination. The upregulated genes included EZH2, SLC44A4, VEGFA, etc. in both BPM and LM cells, while SLC44A4 was particularly upregulated in LM cells. When combined with PROTAC EZH2 degrader-1, the drug sensitivity of cisplatin, etoposide (VP16), and teniposide (VM26) for H128-LM was significantly increased in vitro. The in vivo drug trials with SCLC-LM mouse model demonstrated that PROTAC EZH2 degrader-1 plus VM26 or cisplatin/ VP16 inhibited H128-LM tumour significantly compared to VM26 or cisplatin/ VP16 alone (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The SCLC-LM model effectively simulates the pathophysiological process of SCLC metastasis to the leptomeninges. PROTAC EZH2 degrader-1 overcomes chemoresistance in SCLC, suggesting its potential therapeutic value for SCLC LM.
Factors associated with voluntary HIV counseling and testing among young students engaging in casual sexual activity: a cross-sectional study from Eastern China
Authors: Yang Zhongrong , Chen Wanjun , Chen Weiyong , Ma Qiaoqin , Wang Hui , Jiang Tingting , Jin Meihua , Zhou Xin
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To investigate the factors associated with voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) among young students engaging in casual sexual activity and to establish a scientific rationale for developing targeted intervention strategies for preventing HIV/AIDS in this population.

Methods

Stratified cluster sampling was used to conduct a survey using questionnaires to collect demographic and behavioral information for statistical analysis.

Results

Data from 611 young students, who reported engaging in casual sexual activity, were included in the statistical analysis. Among these, 68 (11.13%) students underwent the VCT. Among young students who engaged in casual sexual activity, those who were non-Zhejiang residents (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.11; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.17–3.80), those who had received AIDS-themed lectures or health education courses from the school in the past year (aOR = 3.96, 95% CI = 1.49–10.50), those who had received HIV risk self-assessment conducted by the school in the past year (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.17–4.59), and those who had engaged in commercial sex activity in the past year (aOR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.07–3.66) were more inclined to have undergone VCT. Male students (aOR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.18–0.77) and those who used condoms consistently during casual sexual activity (aOR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.21–0.97) were less likely to undergo VCT.

Conclusion

Casual sexual activity was relatively prevalent among young students, posing a potential risk for HIV transmission. These findings will be instrumental in the development more effective HIV prevention and control strategies for young students. Additionally, it highlights the necessity of promoting and popularizing VCT among young students without Zhejiang province residency, who are involved in commercial sexual activity, and/or those who lacking HIV education. Moreover, additional research and implementation of refined HIV behavioral interventions specifically tailored to young students are necessary to enhance their awareness and knowledge of HIV prevention.