bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FIGURE 1 from Uncovering the Protective Neurologic Mechanisms of Hypofractionated FLASH Radiotherapy
Authors: Alaghband Yasaman , Allen Barrett D. , Kramár Eniko A. , Zhang Richard , Drayson Olivia G.G. , Ru Ning , Petit Benoit , Almeida Aymeric , Doan Ngoc-Lien , Wood Marcelo A. , Baulch Janet E. , Ballesteros-Zebadua Paola , Vozenin Marie-Catherine , Limoli Charles L.
Published: April 2023

Timeline. Ten-week-old mice received hypofractionated FLASH or CONV irradiation (3 × 10 Gy). A, Male and female mice underwent behavioral testing 4 months after irradiation. At 6 months post-irradiation, mice were sampled, and tissues were prepared for either IHC analysis (n = 4/sex/treatment) or ELISA (n = 5–8/sex/treatment). B, Female mice were used to assess LTP. At 4 months post-irradiation, animals performed in the extended NOR behavioral assay (n = 16/treatment). At 6 months post-irradiation, mice were sacrificed and prepared for electrophysiological analysis of long-term potentiation (n = 10–11/treatment).
Data from Uncovering the Protective Neurologic Mechanisms of Hypofractionated FLASH Radiotherapy
Authors: Alaghband Yasaman , Allen Barrett D. , Kramár Eniko A. , Zhang Richard , Drayson Olivia G.G. , Ru Ning , Petit Benoit , Almeida Aymeric , Doan Ngoc-Lien , Wood Marcelo A. , Baulch Janet E. , Ballesteros-Zebadua Paola , Vozenin Marie-Catherine , Limoli Charles L.
Published: April 2023

Implementation of ultra-high dose-rate FLASH radiotherapy (FLASH-RT) is rapidly gaining traction as a unique cancer treatment modality able to dramatically minimize normal tissue toxicity while maintaining antitumor efficacy compared with standard-of-care radiotherapy at conventional dose rate (CONV-RT). The resultant improvements in the therapeutic index have sparked intense investigations in pursuit of the underlying mechanisms. As a preamble to clinical translation, we exposed non–tumor-bearing male and female mice to hypofractionated (3 × 10 Gy) whole brain FLASH- and CONV-RT to evaluate differential neurologic responses using a comprehensive panel of functional and molecular outcomes over a 6-month follow-up. In each instance, extensive and rigorous behavioral testing showed FLASH-RT to preserve cognitive indices of learning and memory that corresponded to a similar protection of synaptic plasticity as measured by long-term potentiation (LTP). These beneficial functional outcomes were not found after CONV-RT and were linked to a preservation of synaptic integrity at the molecular (synaptophysin) level and to reductions in neuroinflammation (CD68+ microglia) throughout specific brain regions known to be engaged by our selected cognitive tasks (hippocampus, medial prefrontal cortex). Ultrastructural changes in presynaptic/postsynaptic bouton (Bassoon/Homer-1 puncta) within these same regions of the brain were not found to differ in response to dose rate. With this clinically relevant dosing regimen, we provide a mechanistic blueprint from synapse to cognition detailing how FLASH-RT reduces normal tissue complications in the irradiated brain.
Significance:
Functional preservation of cognition and LTP after hypofractionated FLASH-RT are linked to a protection of synaptic integrity and a reduction in neuroinflammation over protracted after irradiation times.
T-Helper 22 Cell Type Responses to Nickel in Contact Allergic Subjects Are Associated with T-Helper 1, T-Helper 2, and T-Helper 17 Cell Cytokine Profile Responses and Patch Test Reactivity
Authors: Masjedi Khosro , Bruze Magnus , Ahlborg Niklas
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Contact allergy to nickel (Ni) is a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction mediated by Ni-reactive T cells producing the hallmark cytokines of several T-helper cell (Th) populations including IFN-γ (Th1), IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 (Th2), and IL-17A (Th17). IL-22-expressing CD4+ cells, which could be either Th17 co-expressing IL-22 or Th22, expressing IL-22 in the absence of IL-17A, have also been found in Ni-provoked skin of allergic subjects. It has been unclear if Ni-reactive T cells consist of distinct Th cell type populations or if they secrete a mix of Th cell hallmark cytokines. The aim herein was to assess if cellular cytokine responses to Ni, in ex vivo-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from Ni-allergic subjects, include not only Th1, Th2, and Th17 but also Th22 hallmark cytokines and to define if the cytokines are produced by distinct cell populations representing different Th profiles. Methods: PBMC from Ni-allergic subjects (n = 15) with different degrees of patch test reactivity and non-allergic controls (n = 5) were in vitro stimulated with Ni. Cytokine levels in PBMC supernatants were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-3, IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, IL-17A, IL-22, and IL-31). FluoroSpot was used to assess if individual Ni-reactive cells produced single, or combinations of, cytokines representing different Th profiles. Cytokine combinations analyzed were IL-17A/IL-22/IFN-γ, IL-5/IL-17A/IFN-γ, IL-13/IL-22/IFN-γ, and IL-5/IL-13. Results: IL-22 as well as all other cytokines measured by ELISA were induced by Ni at higher levels in PBMC from allergic versus non-allergic subjects, with higher levels being associated with stronger patch test reactivity. The levels of most Ni-induced cytokines were positively correlated with each other; IL-2 displayed the highest correlation with other cytokines and IL-6 the lowest. FluoroSpot analysis showed that Th signature cytokines, IFN-γ (Th1), IL-5 and IL-13 (Th2), IL-17A (Th17), and IL-22 (Th22), were almost exclusively produced by distinct cell populations. Conclusion: Distinct Th cell populations, including Ni-reactive cells displaying Th1, Th2, Th17, and Th22 cytokine profiles, are all increased in PBMC from Ni-allergic subjects and positively associated with patch test reactivity. The relevance of these different Th profile populations for the up- or down-regulation of inflammatory reactions in the skin of Ni-allergic subjects remains to be clarified.
Case Report: Evolutionary Clinical-Radiological Features of a Diffuse Hemispheric Glioma, H3 G34 Mutant with Over 5 Years of Survival
Authors: Yamada Camilla A.F. , Soldatelli Matheus , Amaral Lázaro Luis Faria do , Campos Christiane Monteiro de Siqueira , Moraes Paulo Lazaro de , Chaddad-Neto Feres Eduardo Aparecido , Lancellotti Carmen Lucia Penteado
Published: April 2023

Diffuse hemispheric glioma (DHG), H3 G34 mutant was included in the 5th edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System recently published. Given the recent inclusion in the current classification and its rarity in adult patients, there are scarce data on clinical-radiological characteristics, survival, and outcome. The authors report the case of a 35-year-old female with DHG, H3 G34-mutant characteristics and outcomes with an unusual presentation, recurrence, and prolonged survival. In conclusion, our case report demonstrates relevant details that should be observed in patients with suspicion or confirmation of the diagnosis of DHG, H3 G34 mutant, not only in the initial presentation but also in the evolution to ensure more personalized treatment.
Palmitic Acid–Induced Long Noncoding RNA
PARAIL
Regulates Inflammation via Interaction With RNA-Binding Protein ELAVL1 in Monocytes and Macrophages
Authors: Tanwar Vinay Singh , Reddy Marpadga A. , Das Sadhan , Samara Vishnu Amaram , Abdollahi Maryam , Dey Suchismita , Malek Vajir , Ganguly Rituparna , Stapleton Kenneth , Lanting Linda , Pirrotte Patrick , Natarajan Rama
Published: April 2023

Background:

Obesity and diabetes are associated with elevated free fatty acids like palmitic acid (PA), which promote chronic inflammation and impaired inflammation resolution associated with cardiometabolic disorders. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are implicated in inflammatory processes; however, their roles in PA-regulated inflammation and resolution are unclear.

Methods:

We performed RNA-sequencing analysis to identify PA-regulated coding genes and novel lncRNAs in CD14
+
monocytes from healthy volunteers. We investigated the regulation and function of an uncharacterized PA-induced lncRNA
PARAIL
(PA-
r
egulated
a
nti-
i
nflammatory
l
ncRNA). We examined its role in inflammation resolution by employing knockdown and overexpression strategies in human and mouse macrophages. We also used RNA pulldown coupled with mass spectrometry to identify
PARAIL
interacting nuclear proteins and their mechanistic involvement in
PARAIL
functions in human macrophages.

Results:

Treatment of human CD14
+
monocytes with PA-induced several lncRNAs and genes associated with inflammatory phenotype. PA strongly induced lncRNA
PARAIL
expressed near
RIPK2
.
PARAIL
was also induced by cytokines and infectious agents in human monocytes/macrophages and was regulated by NF-κB (nuclear factor-kappa B). Time course studies showed
PARAIL
was induced during inflammation resolution phase in PA-treated macrophages.
PARAIL
knockdown with antisense oligonucleotides upregulated key inflammatory genes and vice versa with
PARAIL
overexpression. We found that
PARAIL
interacts with ELAVL1 (ELAV-like RNA-binding protein 1) protein via adenylate/uridylate–rich elements (AU-rich elements; AREs). ELAVL1 knockdown inhibited the anti-inflammatory functions of
PARAIL
. Moreover,
PARAIL
knockdown increased cytosolic localization of ELAVL1 and increased the stability of ARE-containing inflammatory genes. Mouse orthologous
Parail
was downregulated in macrophages from mice with diabetes and atherosclerosis.
Parail
overexpression attenuated proinflammatory genes in mouse macrophages.

Conclusions:

Upregulation of
PARAIL
under acute inflammatory conditions contributes to proresolution mechanisms via
PARAIL
-ELAVL1 interactions. Conversely,
PARAIL
downregulation in cardiometabolic diseases enhances ELAVL1 function and impairs inflammation resolution to further augment inflammation. Thus, inflammation-resolving lncRNAs like
PARAIL
represent novel targets to combat inflammatory cardiometabolic diseases.
The Lymphatic Vasculature in Cardiac Development and Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Liu Xiaolei , Oliver Guillermo
Published: April 2023

In recent years, the lymphatic system has received increasing attention due to the fast-growing number of findings about its diverse novel functional roles in health and disease. It is well documented that the lymphatic vasculature plays major roles in the maintenance of tissue-fluid balance, the immune response, and in lipid absorption. However, recent studies have identified an additional growing number of novel and sometimes unexpected functional roles of the lymphatic vasculature in normal and pathological conditions in different organs. Among those, cardiac lymphatics have been shown to play important roles in heart development, ischemic cardiac disease, and cardiac disorders. In this review, we will discuss some of those novel functional roles of cardiac lymphatics, as well as the therapeutic potential of targeting lymphatics for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Mitochondrial Complex Abundance, Mitophagy Proteins, and Physical Performance in People With and Without Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Picca Anna , Wohlgemuth Stephanie E. , McDermott Mary M. , Saini Sunil K. , Dayanidhi Sudarshan , Zhang Dongxue , Xu Shujun , Kosmac Kate , Tian Lu , Ferrucci Luigi , Sufit Robert L. , Marzetti Emanuele , Leeuwenburgh Christiaan
Published: April 2023

Background

Mitochondrial abnormalities exist in gastrocnemius muscle of people with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Whether abnormalities in mitochondrial biogenesis and autophagy are associated with greater ischemia or walking impairment in PAD is unknown.

Methods and Results

Protein markers of mitochondrial biogenesis and autophagy and the abundance of mitochondrial electron transport chain complexes were quantified in gastrocnemius muscle biopsies from people with and without PAD. Their 6‐minute walk distance and 4‐m gait speed were measured. Sixty‐seven participants (mean age 65.0 years [±6.8], 16 [23.9%] women, 48 [71.6%] Black) were enrolled, including 15 with moderate to severe PAD (ankle brachial index [ABI] <0.60), 29 with mild PAD (ABI 0.60–0.90), and 23 without PAD (ABI 1.00–1.40). Abundance of all electron transport chain complexes was significantly higher in participants with lower ABI (eg, complex I: 0.66, 0.45, 0.48 arbitrary units [AU], respectively,
P
trend=0.043). Lower ABI values were associated with a higher LC3A/B II‐to‐LC3A/B I (microtubule‐associated protein 1A/1B‐light chain 3) ratio (2.54, 2.31, 2.15 AU, respectively,
P
trend=0.017) and reduced abundance of the autophagy receptor p62 (0.71, 0.69, 0.80 AU, respectively,
P
trend=0.033). The abundance of each electron transport chain complex was positively and significantly associated with 6‐minute walk distance and 4‐m gait speed at usual and fast pace only among participants without PAD (eg, complex I:
r
=0.541,
P
=0.008;
r
=0.477,
P
=0.021;
r
=0.628,
P
=0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

These results suggest that accumulation of electron transport chain complexes in gastrocnemius muscle of people with PAD may be because of impaired mitophagy in the setting of ischemia. Findings are descriptive, and further study in larger sample sizes is needed.
Novel Measures of Arterial Hemodynamics and Wave Reflections Associated With Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Steinberg Rebecca S. , Udeshi Eisha , Dickert Neal , Quyyumi Arshed , Chirinos Julio A. , Morris Alanna A.
Published: April 2023

Background

Arterial stiffness and earlier wave reflections can increase afterload and impair cardiovascular function. Most prior studies have been performed in patients with preserved left ventricular function. We describe novel measures of pulsatile arterial hemodynamics and their association with clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

Methods and Results

Participants with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (n=137, median age 56 years, 49% women, 58% Black) and age‐matched healthy controls (n=124) underwent measurements of large artery stiffness and pulsatile arterial hemodynamics. Carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity and augmentation index were assessed using radial applanation tonometry. Pressure‐flow analyses derived reflected wave transit time, the systolic pressure–time integral imposed by proximal aortic characteristic impedance, and the pressure–time integral from wave reflection (wasted pressure effort). Cox proportional hazards models defined associations between hemodynamic measures and (1) all‐cause death and (2) a combined end point of left ventricular assist device implant, heart transplant, and death, at 2 years adjusted for race, BNP (B‐type natriuretic peptide), and the Meta‐Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure Risk Score. Compared with controls, participants with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction exhibited similar carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (6.8±1.6 versus 7.0±1.6 m/s,
P
=0.40) but higher augmentation index normalized to a heart rate of 75 bpm (13±2% versus 22±2%,
P
<0.001). Shorter reflected wave transit time (ie, earlier wave reflection arrival to the proximal aorta) was associated with an increased risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.67 [95% CI 1.03–1.63]) and the combined end point of death/left ventricular assist device/heart transplant (aHR, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.06–2.44]) at 2 years. Wasted pressure effort/proximal aortic characteristic impedance, representing the proportion of systolic load from wave reflection versus aortic root characteristic impedance, was univariately associated with death (hazard ratio (HR), 1.44 [95% CI, 1.05–1.97]) and with death/left ventricular assist device/heart transplant on univariate (HR, 1.42 [95% CI, 1.07–1.88]) and multivariable (aHR, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.02–1.93]) analysis.

Conclusions

Increased left ventricular systolic load from premature wave reflections is associated with adverse clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
Maritime Dispute Settlement in Southeast Asia: Bargaining under the Shadow of the LOSC
Authors: Malaya J. Eduardo
Published: April 2023

The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (LOSC) has influenced the thinking and negotiating practices of States in Southeast Asia, providing them more common ground and at times bones of contention. Overcoming their traditional reluctance, Southeast Asian countries have become more open to the dispute settlement provisions under Part XV of the LOSC. The rulings in the arbitral and judicial cases from the region and elsewhere have provided ample guidance to States in their dealings with and among each other. Nonetheless, the management and resolution of the long-standing competing maritime claims in the South China Sea have thus far eluded them. Negotiations on a proposed code of conduct have gone on for years and remain a work in progress.
From Union Networks to Lula Livre: an Analysis of US – Brazil Trade Union Solidarity Movements in the 21st Century
Authors: Silverman Jana , Gacek Stanley
Published: April 2023

The Brazilian and US labor movements are currently confronting common challenges related to changes in the overall structure and profile of the working class, the elimination of traditional sources of financing, and the weakening of allied political forces in the electoral arena. Considering these joint trajectories, the authors will examine recent efforts by US-based and Brazilian labor movement actors to create spaces for strategic collaborations, two-way learning, and mutual solidarity, to support common political goals and efforts towards union renovation. The article analyzes three contemporary cases of US-Brazil union solidarity networks, in order to better understand how transnational union activism influences national-level outcomes. The authors posit that the success of these forms of activism is dependent on objective limits created by external economic and political conditions, yet in some circumstances non-transactional solidarity is capable of producing unexpected positive outcomes for workers and their union organizations.
Leucoagaricus thallensis (Agaricaceae; Basidiomycota), a new species from Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: ZAMAN KHAN  , AIMAN IZHAR  , ABDUL NASIR KHALID
Published: April 2023

A new agaric species, Leucoagaricus thallensis, a member of La. sect. Leucoagaricus is described and illustrated from Pakistan. This species is mainly recognized by the combination of the orange-red fibrillose pileus with a white background, the fibrils on the stipe, and the volva. Data on macromorphology, micromorphology, DNA sequences (nrITS and nrLSU), habitat and comparison with closely related taxa are provided for each. Morphological and molecular phylogenetic differences separate our species from all other known species of Leucoagaricus proving its novelty. This study is the first contemporary taxonomic work on Leucoagaricus species from Noorpur Thal, district Khushab.
Pseudaeginella makranensis sp. nov., a new species of caprellid (Crustacea: Amphipoda) from the Iranian coasts of Gulf of Oman
Authors: MOMTAZI FARZANEH , KHALAJI-PIRBALOUTY VALIALLAH , GOLESTANINASAB MEHDI
Published: April 2023

Pseudaeginella makranensis sp. nov. is described from the Iranian coast of the Oman Sea. This species differs from other Pseudaeginella species by setose antennae, setae arrangement on mandibular palp, basis of male gnathopod 2 larger than pereonite 2, and bearing subrectangular propodus in second male gnathopod. A key to all species of Pseudaeginella Mayer, 1890 is provided.
First record of leafhopper genus Satsumanus Ishihara from India (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) with description of a new species
Authors: RAJGOPAL N. N. , STUTI  , NINGOMBAM ARATI , LANGLENTOMBI LEISHANGTHEM CHANU
Published: April 2023

The leafhopper genus Satsumanus Ishihara of tribe Opsiini is newly reported from India based on a new species, Satsumanus chajingensis Rajgopal & Stuti sp. nov. (Manipur: Imphal West), here described and illustrated. Materials are deposited in the National Pusa Collection, Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, India. Photographic illustrations, a species checklist, key to species of the genus and distribution map are provided.
Identity of the ‘true’ Micraspis discolor (Fabricius) (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) with illustrated diagnostic notes on other Micraspis spp. in Indian paddy fields
Authors: POORANI J. , BOOTH ROGER G. , ANURADHA C. , GRACY R. GANDHI , THANIGAIRAJ R. , SWATHI R. S.
Published: April 2023

Micraspis discolor (Fabricius, 1798) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), a widely studied complex of externally similar species, is known to be distributed in all the major rice growing countries of the Oriental region. It consists of disjunct populations that have been treated as a single taxonomic entity, but these are not conspecific and show disparities in their morphology. In this paper, we establish the identity of the true M. discolor based on Fabricius’s type material from Tamil Nadu, Southern India, and redescribe it with illustrations of the diagnostic characters and the life stages. A lectotype is designated for M. discolor from Fabricius’s type material (lectotype designation). Coccinella tenuilinea Walker, 1859, a sympatric species closely related to M. discolor and omitted from Korschefsky’s World Catalogue of Coccinellidae, is transferred to Micraspis (new combination) and a lectotype is designated for it. It is found to be the most predominant species in South India and redescribed with illustrations of the genitalia and the life stages. COI sequences of M. discolor, M. tenuilinea and M. yasumatsui Sasaji based on the material collected in India are given. Phylogenetic analysis of the COI sequences of Indian M. discolor and other Asian ‘M. discolor’ sequences confirm that the Indian M. discolor is a distinct species and all Micraspis spp. from South and southeast Asian countries not matching the true M. discolor described here need to be re-examined and renamed if necessary. Brief illustrated accounts of other Micraspis spp. known from the paddy ecosystems of India are also given. Alesia guerini Mulsant, 1850, currently placed in Micraspis, is transferred to Oenopia Mulsant (new combination) and Coelophora walteri Sicard, 1913 is a new junior synonym of O. guerini (new synonym).
Trajectories of care of community-dwelling people living with dementia: a multidimensional state sequence analysis
Authors: Dufour Isabelle , Vedel Isabelle , Courteau Josiane , Quesnel-Vallée Amélie
Published: April 2023

Background

The type and level of healthcare services required to address the needs of persons living with dementia fluctuate over disease progression. Thus, their trajectories of care (the sequence of healthcare use over time) may vary significantly. We aimed to (1) propose a typology of trajectories of care among community-dwelling people living with dementia; (2) describe and compare their characteristics according to their respective trajectories; and (3) evaluate the association between trajectories membership, socioeconomic factors, and self-perceived health.

Methods

This is an observational study using the data of the innovative Care Trajectories -Enriched Data (TorSaDE) cohort, a linkage between five waves of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), and health administrative data from the Quebec provincial health-insurance board. We analyzed data from 690 community-dwelling persons living with dementia who participated in at least one cycle of the CCHS (the date of the last CCHS completion is the index date). Trajectories of care were defined as sequences of healthcare use in the two years preceding the index date, using the following information: 1) Type of care units consulted (Hospitalization, Emergency department, Outpatient clinic, Primary care clinic); 2) Type of healthcare care professionals consulted (Geriatrician/psychiatrist/neurologist, Other specialists, Family physician).

Results

Three distinct types of trajectories describe healthcare use in persons with dementia: 1) low healthcare use (n = 377; 54.6%); 2) high primary care use (n = 154; 22.3%); 3) high overall healthcare use (n = 159; 23.0%). Group 3 membership was associated with living in urban areas, a poorer perceived health status and higher comorbidity.

Conclusion

Further understanding how subgroups of patients use healthcare services over time could help highlight fragility areas in the allocation of care resources and implement best practices, especially in the context of resource shortage.
Age-related differences in upper limb motor performance and intrinsic motivation during a virtual reality task
Authors: Dong Ying , Liu Xiaoyu , Tang Min , Huo Hongqiang , Chen Duo , Du Xin , Wang Jinghui , Tang Zhili , Qiao Xiaofeng , Guo Jieyi , Fan Linyuan , Fan Yubo
Published: April 2023

Background

In recent years, virtual reality (VR) has evolved from an alternative to a necessity in older adults for health, medical care, and social interaction. Upper limb (UL) motor skill, is an important ability in manipulating VR systems and represents the brain’s regulation of movements using the UL muscles. In this study, we used a haptic-feedback Virtual Box and Block Test (VBBT) system and an Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI) to examine age-related differences in UL motor performance and intrinsic motivation in VR use. The findings will be helpful for the development of VR applications for older adults.

Methods

In total, 48 young and 47 older volunteers participated in our study. The parameters including VBBT score, number of velocity peaks, velocity, grasping force and trajectory length were calculated to represent the task performance, manual dexterity, coordination, perceptive ability and cognitive ability in this study.

Results

Age-related differences could be found in all the parameters (all p <  0.05) in VR use. Regression analysis revealed that the task performance of young adults was predicted by the velocity and trajectory length (R2 = 64.0%), while that of older adults was predicted by the number of velocity peaks (R2 = 65.6%). Additionally, the scores of understandability, relaxation and tiredness were significantly different between the two groups (all p <  0.05). In older adults, the understandability score showed large correlation with the IMI score (|r| = 0.576, p <  0.001). In young adults, the correlation was medium (|r| = 0.342, p = 0.017). No significant correlation was found between the IMI score and VBBT score (|r| = 0.142, p = 0.342) in older adults, while a medium correlation (|r| = 0.342, p = 0.017) was found in young adults.

Conclusions

The findings demonstrated that decreased smoothness in motor skills dominated the poor VR manipulation in older adults. The experience of understandability is important for older adults’ intrinsic motivation in VR use.
Atypical anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome presenting with vomiting as the initial symptom: a case report and literature review
Authors: Deng Jie , Wu Lei , Wei Songqing , Zhang Xiaofo
Published: April 2023

Background

Anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome is a rare autoimmune neuropathy, and atypical cases are even more rare, only a few cases have been reported. Anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome is difficult in early diagnosis and prone to misdiagnosis. Generally,in children with anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome,extraocular muscle paralysis is the initial symptom. However, anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome with vomiting as the initial symptom followed by abnormal gait has not been reported.

Case presentation

We reported a case of anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome with vomiting as the initial symptom, followed by abnormal gait. One day after vomiting, the child developed abnormal gait, which primarily manifested as a slight tilt of the upper body during walking as well as an opening and swaying of the legs at fast walking paces,then progressively aggravated, and finally he could not stand on his own.In the auxiliary examination, cerebrospinal fluid routine,biochemical and metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing (DNA and RNA), brain + spinal cord contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),magnetic Resonance angiography (MRA) and diffusion-weighted image (DWI), hip and knee joint ultrasound showed normal results. Anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome was not confirmed until the positive anti-GQ1b IgG antibody was detected in the serum. After treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and glucocorticoid, the child recovered well, and a 3-month outpatient follow-up showed that the child was able to walk normally.

Conclusions

There are no previous reports of anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome with vomiting as the initial symptom, followed by abnormal gait. Therefore, this valuable case contributes to expanding the database of clinical manifestation of anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome, so as to improve pediatricians’ awareness about such rare diseases and reduce misdiagnosis.
Comparison of mucin levels at the ocular surface of visual display terminal users with and without dry eye disease
Authors: Duan Hongyu , Yang Tingting , Zhou Yifan , Ma Baikai , Zhao Lu , Chen Jiawei , Qi Hong
Published: April 2023

Background

The long-term use of visual display terminals (VDT) is linked to an increased risk of dry eye disease (DED). Numerous studies have indicated that ocular mucins play a vital role in the pathogenesis of DED. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate (1) whether mRNA levels of membrane-associated mucins (MAMs), including MUC1, MUC4, MUC16, and MUC20, as well as MUC5AC are altered in conjunctival cells of VDT users with and without DED and (2) the relationship between mucin levels and subjective and objective tests of DED in VDT users.

Methods

Seventy-nine VDT users were enrolled and divided into DED (n = 53) and control (n = 26) groups. All participants were evaluated for parameters of DED using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, tear breakup time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), lissamine green (LG) staining, and tear meniscus height (TMH). Based on the conjunctival impression cytology (CIC) method, differences in MUC1, MUC4, MUC16, MUC20, and MUC5AC mRNA expression levels were observed between the DED and control groups, and between symptomatic and asymptomatic participants.

Results

The DED group showed significantly decreased MUC1, MUC16, and MUC20 expressions (all P < 0.05) compared to the control group. In addition, these mucin levels were lower in subjects with frequent ocular symptoms (foreign body sensation, blurred vision and painful or sore eyes) than in asymptomatic participants (all P < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed that MUC1, MUC16, and MUC20 levels in VDT users were positively correlated with TBUT or TMH, or both. However, no significant relationship was found between MUC4 and MUC5AC levels and the DED parameters.

Conclusion

VDT users with an increased frequency of ocular discomfort or a diagnosis of DED had a decreased MUC1, MUC16 and MUC20 mRNA expression in their conjunctival cells. MAMs deficiency in the conjunctival epithelium may be one of the mechanisms leading to tear film instability and DED in VDT users.
Misreporting of height and weight by primary school children in Japan: a cross-sectional study on individual and environmental determinants
Authors: Mori Sachie , Asakura Keiko , Sasaki Satoshi , Nishiwaki Yuji
Published: April 2023

Background

Appropriate body constitution during childhood is important for future health. However, it has been suggested that thinness is increasing among adolescent girls and boys in Japan. Since misreporting of height/weight may be a possible reflection of the child's ideal body image, we investigated the magnitude and direction of height/weight misreporting and its determinants among Japanese young adolescents.

Methods

A total of 1019 children in public primary schools were included in the analysis. Both measured and self-reported values of height/weight were obtained. Misreporting of height/weight was calculated by subtracting the measured value from the self-reported value. The association between misreporting and several variables such as the BMI z-score of individuals and body constitution of surrounding children was explored by multivariate linear mixed models.

Results

As BMI z-score increased, ‘overreporting’ of height by boys and ‘underreporting’ of height by girls became larger (p = 0.06 in boys, p = 0.02 in girls). Both boys and girls with a larger body size tended to underreport their weight (p < 0.01 in boys, p < 0.01 in girls). Boys who belonged to a school with a larger average BMI z-score were more likely to overreport their weight. This tendency was not observed for girls.

Conclusions

Self-reported height/weight was generally accurate in Japanese primary school children. However, even primary school children misreported their height/weight intentionally like adults, possibly due to social pressure to lose weight or that not to stand out. Thus, health education about appropriate body constitution should be provided from the beginning of adolescence, particularly for girls.
Predicting patient-reported outcomes following lumbar spine surgery: development and external validation of multivariable prediction models
Authors: Halicka Monika , Wilby Martin , Duarte Rui , Brown Christopher
Published: April 2023

Background

This study aimed to develop and externally validate prediction models of spinal surgery outcomes based on a retrospective review of a prospective clinical database, uniquely comparing multivariate regression and random forest (machine learning) approaches, and identifying the most important predictors.

Methods

Outcomes were change in back and leg pain intensity and Core Outcome Measures Index (COMI) from baseline to the last available postoperative follow-up (3–24 months), defined as minimal clinically important change (MCID) and continuous change score. Eligible patients underwent lumbar spine surgery for degenerative pathology between 2011 and 2021. Data were split by surgery date into development (N = 2691) and validation (N = 1616) sets for temporal external validation. Multivariate logistic and linear regression, and random forest classification and regression models, were fit to the development data and validated on the external data.

Results

All models demonstrated good calibration in the validation data. Discrimination ability (area under the curve) for MCID ranged from 0.63 (COMI) to 0.72 (back pain) in regression, and from 0.62 (COMI) to 0.68 (back pain) in random forests. The explained variation in continuous change scores spanned 16%-28% in linear, and 15%-25% in random forests regression. The most important predictors included age, baseline scores on the respective outcome measures, type of degenerative pathology, previous spinal surgeries, smoking status, morbidity, and duration of hospital stay.

Conclusions

The developed models appear robust and generalisable across different outcomes and modelling approaches but produced only borderline acceptable discrimination ability, suggesting the need to assess further prognostic factors. External validation showed no advantage of the random forest approach.
Evaluation of the sarcopenia quality of life (SarQoL) questionnaire in community dwelling outpatient postmenopausal hungarian women
Authors: Pap Zoltán , Kalabiska Irina , Balogh Ádám , Bhattoa Harjit Pal
Published: April 2023

Background

Sarcopenia is defined as an age-related progressive and systemic loss of muscle mass and function. World Health Organization (WHO) definition of health-related quality of life (QoL) states that health is considered “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”, and a decline in QoL is anticipated in individuals with sarcopenia. Beaudart et al. framed the concept of defining QoL in patients suffering from sarcopenia (SarQoL) based on fundamental procedures of QoL questionnaire development, expert recommendations and studies. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the discriminative power, internal consistency and floor and ceiling effects using data available from a sarcopenia study published recently, where the Hungarian version of the SarQoL questionnaire was also administered.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, data from SarQoL questionnaire administered to a postmenopausal sarcopenia study cohort (n = 100) was scrutinized for evaluation of psychometric properties of the questionnaire. Our verification of the psychometric properties consisted of discriminative power analysis, assessment of internal consistency, and floor and ceiling effects. The homogeneity of the SarQoL questionnaire, i.e., its internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Correlation between the overall and domain SarQoL questionnaire scores and appendicular skeletal muscle mass in sarcopenic individuals was assessed. Furthermore, the difference of SarQoL overall and domain scores between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic patients was also evaluated.

Results

The median (interquartile range (IQR)) overall SarQoL questionnaire score was 81.5 (67.1–91.5). There was a statistically significant lower overall SarQoL score comparing sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic subjects median (IQR): 75.3 (62.1–86.3) vs. 83.7 (71.4–92.1); p = 0.041). The sarcopenic subjects showed a statistically significant (p = 0.021) correlation between the overall SarQoL score and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (Spearman’s ϱ = 0.412). The overall Cronbach’s alpha of 0.937 indicated a high internal consistency of the Hungarian version of the SarQoL questionnaire. No floor or ceiling effects were noted in the overall SarQoL questionnaire score.

Conclusion

In our study on community dwelling outpatient postmenopausal Hungarian women, the overall score of the Hungarian version of the SarQoL questionnaire had significant discriminative power to distinguish between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic patients, had high internal consistency and no floor or ceiling effects.
Kidney cancer with thyroid metastasis combined with thyroid carcinoma, a case report
Authors: Xie Rongli , Tan Dan , Liu Boke , Han Xujie , Jin Xiaoli , Shen Dongjie , Zhou Lei , Shen Jiankang
Published: April 2023

Background

Thyroid cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the endocrine system. There have been some reports on kidney cancer with thyroid metastasis. However, kidney cancer has rarely been detected during thyroid cancer surgery.

Case presentation

We present a rare case of kidney cancer with thyroid metastasis, combined with thyroid carcinoma. A 66-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital in September 2021 due to enlarged left thyroid nodules for two years. The patient was diagnosed with a left thyroid nodule on physical examination in 2012. Extended radical resection of the thyroid cancer was performed. Intraoperatively, two thyroid lesions were identified. Thus, the patient was definitively diagnosed with kidney cancer with thyroid metastasis and papillary thyroid carcinoma. Furthermore, two metastatic nodules due to kidney cancer and one metastatic lymph node lesion due to thyroid cancer were found in the loose connective tissue adjacent to the thyroid.

Conclusions

Kidney cancer with thyroid metastasis and thyroid carcinoma rarely co-occur, and it is difficult to identify the primary tumor. Although clinical examination methods are increasingly updated, the past medical history and physical examination are still very important.
Identifying relevant topics and their competency levels for dental materials science: a fuzzy Delphi study
Authors: Lin Galvin Sim Siang , Pow Kah Jun , Yahya Noor Azlin , Foong Chan Choong , Noorani Tahir Yusuf
Published: April 2023

Background

Dental materials science is an important core course in undergraduate dental programs which integrates foundational concepts of chemical engineering and materials science into clinical dentistry. The present study aimed to identify relevant dental materials science topics for Malaysian undergraduate dental curricula and to determine their appropriate competency levels in terms of cognitive and psychomotor taxonomies.

Methods

Potential dental materials science topics were drafted in alignment with the revised national competency statement. The list of topics was further amended after comparing it with those recommended topics in the literature. Fuzzy Delphi method was applied. Experts were selected based on the different inclusion criteria. They ranked the topics using a five-point Likert scale and recommended the appropriate cognitive and psychomotor levels. Next, fuzzy evaluation was performed. Consensus was deemed for a topic to be included if (a) the average expert agreement was ≥ 75%, (b) the d-construct threshold value for each topic was ≤ 0.2 and (c) the average fuzzy number was ≥ 0.5.

Results

Sixty-two experts participated in the study. They accepted 33 out of 36 potential dental materials science topics. The average Likert score and fuzzy number ranged from 3.63 to 4.92 and 0.526 to 0.784, respectively. Furthermore, “Endodontic materials” was ranked as the most significant topic. Meanwhile, many topics required dental students to demonstrate a cognitive level of “Apply” and a psychomotor level of “Guided response”. Based on mean scores, “Impression materials” was rated as the most cognitively demanding topic, whilst “Temporary restorative materials” was the most demanding topic for psychomotor taxonomy.

Conclusion

The present study has identified relevant dental materials science topics and their appropriate cognitive and psychomotor levels using the Fuzzy Delphi approach. The findings of the present study form the basis for future studies to develop measurable learning outcomes, design corresponding innovative pedagogy and propose assessment criteria for each topic.
Correction: Protocatechuic aldehyde acts synergistically with dacarbazine to augment DNA double-strand breaks and promote apoptosis in cutaneous melanoma cells
Authors: Pei Junxia , Su Zhou , Zeng Xin , Zhong Ya , Zhang Yamei , Yang Yixi , Lu Qiuxia , Li Jian , Deng Yu
Published: April 2023

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
A rapid review of challenges and opportunities related to diversity and inclusion as experienced by early and mid-career academics in the medicine, dentistry and health sciences fields
Authors: Piano Marianne , Diemer Kristin , Hall Michelle , Hui Flora , Kefalianos Elaina , Lawford Belinda J. , McKibbin Gemma , Jarden Rebecca J.
Published: April 2023

Background

Early- and mid-career academics in medicine, dentistry and health sciences are integral to research, education and advancement of clinical professions, yet experience significant illbeing, high attrition and limited advancement opportunities.

Objectives

Identify and synthesise published research investigating challenges and opportunities related to diversity and inclusion, as experienced by early and mid-career academics employed in medicine, dentistry and health sciences disciplines.

Design

Rapid review.

Data sources

OVID Medline, Embase, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL and Scopus.

Methods

We systematically searched for peer reviewed published articles within the last five years, investigating challenges and opportunities related to diversity and inclusion, as experienced by early and mid-career academics employed in medicine, dentistry and health sciences. We screened and appraised articles, then extracted and synthesised data.

Results

Database searches identified 1162 articles, 11 met inclusion criteria. Studies varied in quality, primarily reporting concepts encompassed by professional identity. There were limited findings relating to social identity, with sexual orientation and disability being a particularly notable absence, and few findings relating to inclusion. Job insecurity, limited opportunities for advancement or professional development, and a sense of being undervalued in the workplace were evident for these academics.

Conclusions

Our review identified overlap between academic models of wellbeing and key opportunities to foster inclusion. Challenges to professional identity such as job insecurity can contribute to development of illbeing. Future interventions to improve wellbeing in academia for early- and mid-career academics in these fields should consider addressing their social and professional identity, and foster their inclusion within the academic community.

Registration

Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/SA4HX).
Experience of chinese counter-marching nurses with COVID-19 patients’ death in Wuhan: a qualitative study
Authors: Guo Zhifang , Wu Kunli , Shan Huibin , kim Younglee , He Qilian
Published: April 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic was occurring worldwide with over a 6.5 million deaths. It’s important to explore the instructions for the global nursing community by identifying the personal coping methods of Chinese nurses in Wuhan to deal with patient deaths.

Methodology

The study used a qualitative conventional content analysis with 14 Chinese Counter-marching nurses. Purposive sampling, snowball sampling, and semi-structured interviews were used for participants and data collection. To assess the quality of the findings, Guba and Lincoln’s criteria for confidence were fulfilled.

Results

The data analysis results in 4 main categories:(1) psychological shocks related to COVID-19 patient’s death; (2) personal psychological adjustment and demands; (3) insights on life and values; (4) Needs for relevant knowledge and skills.

Conclusions

During the outbreak of the epidemic or pandemic, adequate psychological care resources need to be provided to nurses when facing the death of infectious patients, to reduce the negative emotions brought by death. Effective coping strategies should also be formulated to enhance their resilience and promote their professional competence.
Documenting care together with patients: the experiences of nurses and patients
Authors: Schøllhammer Helle , Jørgensen Tina Magaard , Jensen Hanne Irene
Published: April 2023

Background

One way in which patients can participate in care is by taking part in medical documentation. Producing documentation together with patients has been found to decrease the amount of incorrect information, help patients to be involved, and promote shared decision-making. The aims of this study were to develop and implement a practice of producing documentation together with patients and to examine staff and patient experiences of this practice.

Methods

A quality improvement study was conducted from 2019 to 2021 at a Day Surgery Unit in a Danish University Hospital. Before implementing a practice of documenting together with patients, nurses’ perceptions of doing documentation together with patients were examined via a questionnaire survey. After an implementation period, a similar follow-up survey with staff was conducted, together with structured patient phone interviews.

Results

A total of 24 nursing staff out of 28 (86%) filled in the questionnaire at baseline and 22 out of 26 (85%) at follow-up. A total of 61 out of 74 invited patients (82%) were interviewed. At baseline, the majority (71-96%) of participants agreed that documentation done together with the patient would contribute to increased patient safety, fewer errors, real-time documentation, patient involvement, visible patient perspective, correction of errors, more accessible information and less duplication of work. At follow-up, significant decreases in the staffs’ positive perceptions of the benefits of documenting together with patients were found for all areas except for “real-time documentation” and “less duplication of work”. Almost all patients found it okay that the nurses wrote up medical documentation during the interview, and more than 90% of patients found the staff responsive or very responsive and present during the reception interview.

Conclusion

Before implementation of a practice of documenting together with patients, the majority of staff assessed such documentation as being beneficial, but a significant decrease in positive assessment was found at follow-up, with challenges such as feeling less connected with the patient and practical, IT-related issues being described. The patients found the staff to be present and responsive and felt that it was important to know what was being written in their medical record.