bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guidance for Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Trials in Ulcerative Colitis: The Second ROME Consensus Conference
Authors: Lopetuso Loris R , Deleu Sara , Puca Pierluigi , Abreu Maria Teresa , Armuzzi Alessandro , Barbara Giovanni , Caprioli Flavio , Chieng Siew , Costello Samuel Paul , Damiani Andrea , Danese Silvio , Del Chierico Federica , D’Haens Geert , Dotan Iris , Facciotti Federica , Falony Gwen , Fantini Massimo Claudio , Fiorino Gionata , Gionchetti Paolo , Godny Lihi , Hart Ailsa , Kupčinskas Juozas , Iqbal Tariq , Laterza Lucrezia , Lombardini Letizia , Maharshak Nitsan , Marasco Giovanni , Masucci Luca , Papa Alfredo , Paramsothy Sudarshan , Petito Valentina , Piovani Daniele , Pugliese Daniela , Putignani Lorenza , Raes Jeroen , Ribaldone Davide Giuseppe , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Savarino Edoardo Vincenzo , Sokol Harry , Vetrano Stefania , Ianiro Gianluca , Cammarota Giovanni , Cominelli Fabio , Pizarro Theresa T , Tilg Herbert , Gasbarrini Antonio , Vermeire Severine , Scaldaferri Franco
Published: January 2025

Background

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is emerging as a potential treatment modality for individuals living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Despite its promise, the effectiveness of FMT for treating IBD, particularly for ulcerative colitis (UC), still requires thorough clinical investigation. Notwithstanding differences in methodologies, current studies demonstrate its potential for inducing remission in UC patients. Therefore, standardized and robust randomized clinical trials (RCTs) are needed to further support its efficacy for managing UC. The aim of the second Rome Consensus Conference was to address gaps and uncertainties identified in previous research regarding FMT and to offer a robust framework for future studies applied to the treatment of UC.

Methods

Global experts in the field of clinical IBD, mucosal immunology, and microbiology (N = 48) gathered to address the need for standardized clinical trials in FMT investigation. The group focused on key issues, such as stool donation, donor selection, characterization of fecal biomass, potential administration routes, as well as the process of induction, maintenance, and endpoint readouts.

Results and Conclusions

The consensus achieved during this conference established standardization of methods and protocols to enhance the current quality of research, with the aim of eventual implementation of FMT in managing UC and the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes.
Sesamin targets ClpP which attenuates virulence of S. aureus and protects mice from fatal pneumonia induced by MRSA
Authors: Wen Yu , Wu Duogeng , Zhang Luxin , Ma Shuxia , Lv Chao
Published: January 2025

Aims

The aim of this study was to identify sesamin as a Casein hydrolase P (ClpP) inhibitor and to determine whether it could attenuate the virulence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Methods and results

Through fluorescence resonance energy transfer screening, a natural compound sesamin demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on ClpP enzyme activity with an IC50 of 20.62 μg/ml. Sesamin suppressed the expression of virulence factors of MRSA such as α-hemolysin (Hla) and Panton–Valentine leucocidin by protein immunoblotting. Thermal shift assay and cellular thermal shift assay showed that sesamin could bind to ClpP and enhance the thermal stability of ClpP. Furthermore, the binding affinity between sesamin and ClpP was determined by surface plasmon resonance with a KD value of 7.18 × 10−6 M. Molecular docking, dynamics simulations and point mutation analysis confirmed the stability of the sesamin-ClpP complex with a −10.184 kcal/mol total binding energy and identified PHE-174 in ClpP as a key binding site. In mice pneumonia model, sesamin combined vancomycin treatment markedly reduced the pathogenicity of MRSA-infected mice, offering protection against fatal lung infections.

Conclusions

Overall, these findings validate sesamin as a promising compound that targets ClpP, reducing virulence factor expression, that holds potential as a hit compound against MRSA infections.
Global pressure measurements in a transonic convex model with VGs
Authors: Chen Chao-Yu , Wang Chia-Ching , Huang Chih-Yung , Chung Kung-Ming
Published: January 2025

This study experimentally investigated the global pressure distribution on a transonic convex corner model by using pressure-sensitive paint (PSP). Vortex generators (VGs) of different heights—0.0, 0.2 or 1.0 relative to the height of the turbulent boundary layer thickness—were employed under transonic flow conditions of Mach 0.83 and 0.89. Temperature-sensitive paint was applied to obtain data for correcting the PSP measurements. Our results indicated that a generator height of 0.2 is optimal for delaying separation, whereas a height of 1.0 can induce parasitic drag. The temperature-corrected PSP data agreed well with the measurements using Kulite pressure transducers, emphasizing the ability of PSP to provide two-dimensional pressure distributions and reveal low-pressure regions from pair vortex traces. The PSP measurements effectively illustrated the upwash and downwash around VGs, highlighting the high spatial resolution of PSP data in global flow visualization.
Two-phase rejective sampling and its asymptotic properties
Authors: Yang Shu , Ding Peng
Published: January 2025

Rejective sampling improves design and estimation efficiency of single-phase sampling when auxiliary information in a finite population is available. When such auxiliary information is unavailable, we propose to use two-phase rejective sampling (TPRS), which involves measuring auxiliary variables for the sample of units in the first phase, followed by the implementation of rejective sampling for the outcome in the second phase. We explore the asymptotic design properties of double expansion and regression estimators under TPRS. We show that TPRS enhances the efficiency of the double-expansion estimator, rendering it comparable to a regression estimator. We further refine the design to accommodate varying importance of covariates and extend it to multi-phase sampling. We start with the theory for the population mean and then extend the theory to parameters defined by general estimating equations. Our asymptotic results for TPRS immediately cover the existing single-phase rejective sampling, under which the asymptotic theory has not been fully established.
Commodified by displacement: the effects of forced displacement on Syrian refugee women in Lebanon’s agricultural sector
Authors: Nassar Jessy
Published: January 2025

In an effort to contribute to an emergent body of ethnographic work addressing the labour economy of forced displacement and the contribution of women refugee-labour more precisely, the article uses the case-study of Syrian refugee women in Lebanon’s agriculture to uncover how forced displacement has contributed to the exploitation of an already-commodified, invisible, and migrantized workforce. While there is an established and diverse body of literature that investigates female labour invisibility in agriculture (on the one hand), and the relationship between labour commodification and agriculture (on the other hand), less discussed is the relationship between forced displacement and female labour commodification. Based on ethnographic research including interviews and participant observations conducted between May 2018 and September 2019 in Lebanon’s Bekaa valley, this article demonstrates how refugee-labourers are subjected to various tactics and instruments of labour coercion, which affect their decision-making power in both the work sphere and the domestic sphere, reinforcing their invisibility as cheap labour and docile refugees. A closer investigation into the labour dynamics on site yet reveals a much more complex reality where women engage in various acts of negotiations by making instrumental use of their femaleness. Notwithstanding the situation of forced displacement, the conditions facing the case of these female refugee-labourers mirrors more broadly the structural problems inherent to contracted labour regimes in corporatized sectors like agriculture.
How to Be a Prudential Expressivist
Authors: Brown James L D
Published: January 2025

This paper examines the prospects for an expressivist theory of prudential thought and discussion, or thought and discussion about what is good for us or what makes our lives go well. It is becoming increasingly common to view prudential thought and discussion as a kind of normative thought and discussion. If this is right, then expressivism, like any other meta-normative view, must be able to explain prudential thought and discussion. However, existing expressivist theories offer no such explanation and lack the resources to construct one. I argue that the best strategy for expressivists is to adopt a fitting attitudes account of prudential concepts. More specifically, I propose that expressivists adopt the rational care theory of well-being, according to which claims about what is good for a person are equivalent to claims about what it is rational to want for that person insofar as one cares for them. In doing so, I defend the rational care theory against its most pressing objection and argue that the view provides an independently attractive account of prudential thought and discussion that fits well with the expressivist’s aim to explain normative thought and discussion in terms of its distinctive practical function.
The morphologies of outburst light curves of black hole X-ray transients as telltale signs of disc instability evolution
Authors: Saraswati T A , Vierdayanti K , Premadi P W
Published: January 2025

We present a comprehensive spectral and timing analysis of 15 outbursts and 18 mini-outbursts from nine dynamically confirmed black hole X-ray transients with light curve and spectral data from RXTE, MAXI, and NuSTAR obtained from 1996 to 2024. Departed from the canonical fast-rise exponential decay (FRED) morphology, the most common morphology within our sample is triangular with similar rise and decay time-scale. In most outbursts, the spectral evolutions indicate the presence of limit-cycle instability, as predicted by the disc instability model (DIM). Even though almost all of the outbursts showed a similar canonical pattern, unique transition patterns are found in FRED outbursts. On the other hand, no spectral transition is found in any mini-outburst, which was observed in either hard or thermal-dominant (TD) state only. The Fe K $\alpha$ emission line is the most prominent feature in the hard state of the rising phase but none is found in the decay phase. Triangular outbursts are always in transition to the TD state, following a standard accretion disc, before the peak proceeds to match DIM prediction. This is unlike the FRED outburst which directly transitioned to the steep power law (SPL) state or high Eddington ratio TD state, resembling a slim accretion disc. Non-canonical spectral evolution as well as the rarity of FRED outburst in our sample, seem to add more challenges for DIM. Studying the morphology of outburst light curve may reveal more clues on the evolution of the disc instability at least during the time relevant to the burst.
Unveiling the Public Service Identity: Rethinking Public Service Motivation Through Social Identity
Authors: Ripoll Guillem , Breaugh Jessica
Published: January 2025

Over the past three decades, a substantial body of research has examined the concept of public service motivation (PSM). While this research has been coherent and incremental, there remains a need to refine its conceptualization. Built on previous research, this article addresses this gap by proposing a “new” conceptualization of PSM grounded in social identity theory (SIT). We argue PSM should be viewed as a public service identity (PSI) comprising of two key social identity components: the degree of identification and salience of this PSI. Drawing on SIT, self-determination theory, and social categorization theory, we develop a framework that explains how these identity-based factors shape the expression of PSI. Specifically, we propose that the strength of an individual’s identification with the public service role, as well as the situational salience of this identity, influence motivational drivers and behavioral outcomes. The article concludes by outlining concrete research directions and methodological approaches to empirically test and further develop this social identity-based model of PSI. This refined conceptualization has important implications for advancing theory and research, as well as informing public sector recruitment, training, and management practices.
The Earnings and Labor Supply of U.S. Physicians
Authors: Gottlieb Joshua D , Polyakova Maria , Rinz Kevin , Shiplett Hugh , Udalova Victoria
Published: January 2025

Is government guiding the invisible hand at the top of the labor market? We use new administrative data to measure physicians’ earnings and estimate the influence of health care policies on these earnings, physicians’ labor supply, and the allocation of talent. Combining the administrative registry of U.S. physicians with tax data, Medicare billing records, and survey responses, we find that physicians’ annual earnings average $350,000 and make up 8.6% of national health care spending. Business income makes up one-quarter of earnings and is systematically underreported in survey data. Earnings increase steeply early in the career, and there are major differences across specialties, regions, and firm sizes. The geographic pattern of earnings is unusual compared with other workers. We argue that these patterns reflect policy choices to subsidize demand for physician care, amplified by restrictions on physician entry, especially in certain specialties. Health policy has a major impact on the margin: 25% of physician fee revenue driven by Medicare reimbursements accrues to physicians personally. Physicians earn 8% of public money spent on insurance expansion. These policies in turn affect the type and quantity of medical care physicians supply, retirement timing, and the allocation of talent across specialties.
Alternative hosts of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma pruni’ identified through surveys and vector gut content analysis
Authors: Shires Madalyn K. , Molnar Cody , Cowell Sarah J. , Bishop Garrett , Voelker Jenna , Thompson Ashley A. , Nikolaeva Ekaterina , Copp Cody , Flandermeyer Laura , Melton Tawnee , Northfield Tobin D. , Marshall Adrian T. , Cooper W. Rodney , Harper Scott
Published: January 2025

An ongoing outbreak of X-Disease, associated with ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma pruni’ has resulted in severe economic losses for cherry and stone fruit growers in the U.S. Pacific Northwest in the last decade. Given that this pathogen is transmitted by polyphagous leafhopper species, primarily Colladonus montanus ssp. reductus and C. geminatus in the PNW, alternative plant hosts present a significant management concern. Here we surveyed phytoplasma incidence in non-Prunus plants found in and around stone fruit orchard borders and compared these results to the leafhopper feeding patterns through gut content analysis. We confirmed ‘Ca. P. pruni’ infection in 21 plant species from 15 families. Of these, 15 species were commonly found in the diets of phytoplasma-carrying leafhoppers. Due to the abundance of common species, including Taraxacum, Malva, and Trifolium spp., alternative hosts were found across all growing seasons, although ‘Ca. P. pruni’ titer was low (<102 cells) in most of these hosts. No geographic patterns were identified, instead phytoplasma incidence and spread at individual orchards was related to the management of annual and biennial host species, thus removing preferred leafhopper feeding hosts. These data suggest alternative host removal, along with removal of infected trees, is an effective means of slowing disease spread.
Surgeons’ Perspectives on Liability for the Use of Artificial Intelligence Technologies in the United States and European Union: Results From a Focus Group Study
Authors: Duffourc Mindy , Møllebæk Mathias , Druedahl Louise C. , Minssen Timo , Gerke Sara
Published: January 2025

Objective:

To examine surgeons’ perspectives on liability for using artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies in surgery in the United States and the European Union.

Background:

The introduction of AI-driven technologies in surgery can improve surgical performance and patient outcomes. However, liability risks might inhibit their implementation in the operating room. We report here the results of a focus group study that explored surgeons’ perspectives on liability for using AI-driven technologies in surgery in the United States and the European Union.

Methods:

Participants were identified through a call for participation disseminated through personal and professional networks. Inclusion criteria were: (1) adults (at least 18 years of age); (2) surgeons based in either the United States or in one of the European Union’s Member States, with a preference for those specializing in gastrointestinal surgery to facilitate better discussions about the vignettes that involved a colorectal surgical procedure; (3) ability to comfortably read and communicate in English; (4) willingness to consent to participation, and (5) willingness to consent to keeping the focus group meeting content, participants, and discussions confidential.

Results:

We conducted 6 focus groups via Zoom with a total of 18 participants (11 EU surgeons and 7 US surgeons). The following main themes emerged: (1) acknowledgment of the potential benefits of using AI-driven technology in surgery, (2) acceptance of surgeon responsibility, (3) recognition that AI may impact the standard of care, (4) skepticism about potential liability for AI manufacturers, and (5) the importance of patient information and consent.

Conclusions:

Despite the potential future benefits of integrating AI into surgical practice, surgeons will benefit from (1) an increased understanding of how AI-driven technologies will deliver these benefits and (2) increased clarity surrounding how AI-driven technologies will be governed by both regulators and the surgical community. While our study focused on surgeons’ perspectives, it could also provide valuable insights for other healthcare providers using AI to treat patients.
Traumatic Cuboid Dislocation Without Cuboid Fracture: Literature Review and Case Report of a Rare Injury Pattern
Authors: Date Akshay , Bagley Caroline , Francis Randhir , Walker Roland , Latif Ahmed , Abbasian Ali
Published: January 2025

Isolated cuboid dislocation in the absence of fracture is a rare injury pattern that can be easily missed on initial clinical assessment. We present a case report of such injury which required open reduction and internal fixation to reduce and stabilize the cuboid. We performed a literature review to guide the management of similar injuries. Ten studies of cuboid dislocation without fracture were identified. Six articles reported a plantar flexion and inversion mechanism of injury, with inferomedial dislocation of the cuboid. Open reduction was required in all but 1 case. In this paper, we discuss a case of an isolated cuboid dislocation in the absence of fracture, which required an operation with open reduction internal fixation. Furthermore, we undertake a review of similar such cases reported in the literature and present a suitable management strategy from the present evidence.

Level of Clinical Evidence: Level IV.
Berberine inhibits prostate cancer progression by inducing ferroptosis: evidence from network pharmacology
Authors: Zou Peiliang , Li Shenghai , He Qixiong , Zheng Chixing
Published: January 2025

The uncertain ferroptosis-related role of berberine in prostate cancer was explored using network pharmacology methodology. Integration of ferroptosis targets in prostate cancer from the Genecard database and berberine targets from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology and SwissTargetPrediction databases revealed 17 common targets. Among these, 10 hub genes, including CCNB1, CDK1, AURKA, AR, CDC42, ICAM1, TYMS, NTRK1, PTGS2, and SCD, were identified. Enrichment analyses yielded 799 Gene Ontology terms and 23 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways associated with berberine-related targets. Molecular docking simulations indicated berberine’s binding capacity to all hub genes. In-vitro studies on LNCaP and PC3 cells demonstrated berberine’s inhibition of cell proliferation and significant downregulation of TYMS, CCNB1, AURKA, CDK1, and SCD in both cell lines. Berberine exhibited cell line-specific effects by reducing AR expression in LNCaP cells and suppressing ICAM1 in PC3 cells. Overall, berberine shows promise in inhibiting prostate cancer progression through modulation of ferroptosis-related genes, including TYMS, AR, CCNB1, AURKA, CDK1, ICAM1, NTRK1, SCD, and CDC42.
CPAP Therapy for OSA and Its Impact on Various Cardiovascular Disorders
Authors: Kumari Kajol , Khalaf Joud , Sawan Liyan Jehad , Ho Wing Lam , Murugan Chandra Kumar , Gupta Archit , Devani Aarfa , Rizwan Muhammad , Kaku Rohini , Muzammil Muhammad Ali , Nageeta FNU
Published: January 2025

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a highly prevalent and serious disorder with significant complications, causes considerable daytime and nighttime symptoms as well as long-term consequences and is yet an underdiagnosed and inadequately treated condition. Patients with OSA undergo frequent awakenings during the sleep cycle and find it impossible to get restorative sleep. Individuals are extremely fatigued, sleepy, and irritable throughout the day. Reduced exercise performance and physical activity contribute to a decrease in energy metabolism and weight gain. Those in this population may experience decreased motivation, which could result in depressive symptoms. The abrupt drops in oxygen levels during the sleep cycle result in profound spikes in blood pressure and strain the cardiovascular system. Given its close tie with major cardiovascular risk factors, OSA is linked with various cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, cardiac arrhythmia, poorly controlled blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke. Continuous positive airway pressure is an effective and tried-trusted approach for symptom relief and improving quality of life. Despite its benefits, patients struggle with compliance and often go untreated because of physical discomfort and perceived inconvenience of using these machines. One other explanation for this could be the lack of awareness, comprehensive data, and extensive research on its effects on long-term cardiovascular and metabolic complications caused by OSA. The current standard treatment for OSA, using adequate positive airway pressure, greatly reduces cardiovascular morbidity. Nevertheless, patients with cardiovascular disorders continue to be highly susceptible to OSA and its detrimental clinical consequences, even with effective therapy available. In summary, continuous positive airway pressure has an indirect potential to affect cardiovascular outcomes, but further studies should be done to address issues with patient compliance and adherence.
SPLASH Into Fitness
Authors: Kramer-Kostecka Eydie N. , Lewis Beth A. , Barr-Anderson Daheia J.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Girls’ physical activity and healthful eating behaviors decline throughout adolescence. These trajectories may be linked to the underdevelopment of exercise and healthful eater identities. Youth programs might consider prioritizing identity development as an innovative health promotion strategy, especially during the formative preadolescent life stage.

Objectives:

This study examines healthful identities and behaviors among a sample of preadolescent girls who participated in SPLASH, a multicomponent youth program consisting of identity development (“I am an exerciser”; “I am a healthy eater”), physical activity, and healthful eating.

Methods:

SPLASH was piloted in a community-based recreational facility in the Midwest United States. Participants had differing levels of program access: all girls (N = 32, age = 10.6 ± 0.8) attended a 1-week summer day camp, and a subset (n = 16) received supplementary access to a 10-week eHealth program. Using a feasibility framework, we examined SPLASH’s (1) preliminary efficacy, (2) implementation, and (3) acceptability.

Results:

Girls’ exercise identities and behaviors improved following camp participation. At follow-up, those in the camp-plus-eHealth group reported greater improvements in physical activity enjoyment relative to girls in the camp-only group.

Conclusions:

SPLASH is a promising identity-focused health promotion program for preadolescent girls. Community support and family engagement facilitated this pilot study. Programmatic impact should be assessed in additional communities.
Synergistic effect of Cortex Moutan and Poria in protecting myocardium against ischemic injury based on network pharmacology
Authors: Wang Zhenrong , Tian Zhaowei , Liu Chenfeng , Wang Chen
Published: January 2025

Objective:

To explore the potential mechanisms of Cortex Moutan-Poria synergistic effect in anti-myocardial ischemic injury based on network pharmacology.

Methods:

Active components from Cortex Moutan-Poria were identified using the TCMSP database, and their potential targets were predicted with the UniProt database. Gene targets related to myocardial ischemic injury were sourced from the TTD database. An analysis map linking the “herbal pair-active components-targets-disease” and corresponding protein networks were constructed using Cytoscape 3.10.1 software and the STRING platform, respectively. Enrichment analyses refer to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of the Genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses and Gene Ontology (GO) databases for corresponding biological pathways and signalling pathway information for further exploration of the possible involvement of drug targets in downstream signalling.

Results:

A total of 17 active components of the Cortex Moutan-Poria herbal pair and 243 predicted targets were identified, among which 133 targets interacted with the active components in myocardial ischemic injury. Key genes associated with myocardial ischemic injury included B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2), Jun N-terminal Kinase (JUN), Matrix Metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9), cysteine-dependent aspartate-specific proteases-3 (Caspase-3), Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2 (PTGS2), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), IL-6, Protein Kinase B (AKT1), and Stylonychia lemnae macronuclear development protein 6 (MDP6).

Conclusion:

The anti-myocardial ischemic injury effect of the Cortex Moutan-Poria combination is attributed to its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway pharmacological properties. The pathways, core proteins, and major genes identified in this study for treating myocardial ischemic injury provide a theoretical foundation for subsequent experimental research.
Discovery of key genes and plant extracts in Sjögren’s syndrome with yin deficiency syndrome based on female patients clinical data & molecular docking
Authors: Li Haotian , Pang Fengtao , Xu Haodong , Yang Jianqin , Hu Sile , Yanjun Liu , Tang Xiaopo
Published: January 2025

Background:

Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune disease, for which Traditional Chinese Medicine has shown significant therapeutic effects based on different syndrome types of Sjögren’s Syndrome. However, the research findings between it and related plant extracts are limited.

Objective:

To explore the symptoms of patients with yin deficiency syndrome and non-yin deficiency syndrome of Sjögren’s Syndrome and their relationship with plant extracts under the background of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Methods:

Whole blood samples were collected from SS patients with yin deficiency syndrome (5), SS patients without yin deficiency syndrome (5), and healthy volunteers (5) for proteomic testing. Using healthy volunteers as the control group, the differential protein expression of SS with yin deficiency syndrome was screened for enrichment analysis and functional annotation; combining previous effective clinical cases and prescription drugs for data mining and network pharmacological analysis, potential effective plant extracts were screened and enriched. Finally, molecular docking was used to validate the results of network analysis, providing a highly probable new idea for the correlation between potential drug targets for SS patients with yin deficiency syndrome and potential effective plant extracts.

Results:

1. By analyzing the proteomic data of clinical samples, the differential genes of healthy individuals versus Sjögren’s Syndrome with yin deficiency versus Sjögren’s Syndrome without yin deficiency were discovered. By overlapping the above data, it was found that the key target genes for treating Sjögren’s Syndrome are HBA1, MST1, PCSK9, and HBB. 2. Enrichment analysis of plant extracts (PE) through clinical data mining of effective cases revealed the tremendous potential of four Chinese botanical drug - β-sitosterol, quercetin, berberine, and kaempferol in treating Sjögren’s Syndrome patients with yin deficiency syndrome. 3. The pathogenesis and regulation of Sjögren’s Syndrome with yin deficiency syndrome may be related to interleukin-related pathways, DNA synthesis, and oxidative stress. 4. Molecular docking suggests that berberine has good binding activity with MST1.

Conclusion:

We believe that berberine and MST1 may have significant research value in the treatment of Sjögren’s Syndrome with Female Patients. This study provides valuable reference points for future research on Sjögren’s Syndrome with yin deficiency syndrome.
Prevention of liver cancer in the era of next-generation antivirals and obesity epidemic
Authors: Suzuki Hiroyuki , Fujiwara Naoto , Singal Amit G. , Baumert Thomas F. , Chung Raymond T. , Kawaguchi Takumi , Hoshida Yujin
Published: January 2025

Preventive interventions are expected to substantially improve the prognosis of patients with primary liver cancer, predominantly HCC and cholangiocarcinoma. HCC prevention is challenging in the face of the evolving etiological landscape, particularly the sharp increase in obesity-associated metabolic disorders, including metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease. Next-generation anti-HCV and HBV drugs have substantially reduced, but not eliminated, the risk of HCC and have given way to new challenges in identifying at-risk patients. The recent development of new therapeutic agents and modalities has opened unprecedented opportunities to refine primary, secondary, and tertiary HCC prevention strategies. For primary prevention (before exposure to risk factors), public health policies, such as universal HBV vaccination, have had a substantial prognostic impact. Secondary prevention (after or during active exposure to risk factors) includes regular HCC screening and chemoprevention. Emerging biomarkers and imaging modalities for HCC risk stratification and detection may enable individual risk-based personalized and cost-effective HCC screening. Clinical studies have suggested the potential utility of lipid-lowering, antidiabetic/obesity, and anti-inflammatory agents for secondary prevention, and some of them are being evaluated in prospective clinical trials. Computational and experimental studies have identified potential chemopreventive strategies directed at diverse molecular, cellular, and systemic targets for etiology-specific and/or agnostic interventions. Tertiary prevention (in conjunction with curative-intent therapies for HCC) is an area of active research with the development of new immune-based neoadjuvant/adjuvant therapies. Cholangiocarcinoma prevention may advance with recent efforts to elucidate risk factors. These advances will collectively lead to substantial improvements in liver cancer mortality rates.
Factors Influencing Postoperative Quality of Life in Korean Brain Tumor Survivors
Authors: Lim Soomin , Choi-Kwon Smi
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Patients with brain tumors continue to exhibit a lower quality of life than the general population, even after an extended period after surgery. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the postoperative quality of life of patients with brain tumors in South Korea and explore its determinants. METHODS: This study used a descriptive correlational design and collected data using questionnaires and electronic medical records. The collected data included the participants' characteristics, anxiety and depression levels, uncertainty, social support, and quality of life. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 29.0, with descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis. RESULTS: Of the 117 subjects, 84 (71.8%) had benign tumors, and 33 (28.2%) had malignant tumors, with an average postoperative duration of 42.7 (51.0) months. Thirty-four participants (29%) reported experiencing depression, whereas the average uncertainty score was 91.8 (12.0) points. The average quality-of-life score was 67.52 (20.31) points, indicating a lower quality of life compared with the general population. Lower average monthly income (β = 0.174, P = .044), higher depression levels (β = −0.413, P < .001), and greater uncertainty (β = −0.230, P = .025) were associated with reduced quality of life. In terms of social support, family support was linked to quality of life but did not have a significant influence (P = .780), whereas healthcare provider support significantly affected quality of life (P = .015). CONCLUSION: This study highlights the persistent decline in the postoperative quality of life of patients with brain tumors due to depression and uncertainty, emphasizing the need for healthcare provider support. Clarifying these challenges, it may serve as a basis for developing nursing interventions to enhance survivors' long-term quality of life.
Ward-Based Staff Perspectives on Their Preparedness to Recognize Patient Deterioration: An Interpretive Description Study
Authors: MIKHAIL John , KING Lindy
Published: January 2025

Background

Despite an overall decline in serious adverse events in hospitalized patients, approximately one third of inpatient mortality continues to relate to adverse events impacting patients on general wards. The preparedness of nurses, midwives, and nursing assistants (collectively referred to as ward-based staff) to recognize patient deterioration is therefore seen as critical.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to explore ward-based staff perspectives regarding their preparedness to recognize patient deterioration.

Methods

An interpretive description approach was utilized to interview 16 participants from a single-center regional hospital. The participants included nurses, midwives, and nursing assistants who worked exclusively on wards. The participants were purposely selected to complete semistructured interviews. Data were analyzed using a six-step thematic analysis, and the study followed the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist.

Results

Three main themes (with subthemes) were identified: (a) feeling prepared (experience, intuitive awareness, early warning systems), (b) promoting preparedness (multimodal education, debriefing, collegial support), and (c) being unprepared (undergraduate education, knowledge deficit, staffing related concerns, psychological response to incident, unforeseen barriers).

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

The findings suggest strategies for increasing knowledge and confidence in all ward-based staff, allowing them to feel better prepared to recognize clinical deterioration. Moreover, based on the results, ward-based staff strongly perceive experience, clinical shortfalls in undergraduate education, collegial support networks, mentorship, psychological response to incidents, and multimodal education to be key contributors to preparedness.
Soft Coagulation Versus Argon Plasma Coagulation After Large Non-pedunculated Colorectal Polyp Resection
Authors: Smith Eric , Wu Yizhong , Wang Yichen , Dahiya Dushyant Singh , Chandan Saurabh , Maida Marcello , Spadaccini Marco , Facciorusso Antonio , Shaukat Aasma , Ramai Daryl , Miranda Clive
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Thermal ablative methods (such as argon plasma coagulation (APC) and soft tip snare coagulation (STSC) are commonly used to treat polyp margins. We aim to appraise the current literature and compare clinical outcomes between patients with treated (with APC vs. STSC) and non-treated endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) margins.

Methods:

We searched major databases from inception until November 2023 for randomly controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EMR of large non-pedunculated colorectal polyps with and without treated margins. Pooled data were analyzed for the primary outcome of recurrence at first screening colonoscopy, and adverse events. Analysis was performed using a random effects model and data were reported using 95% CIs.

Results:

A total of 5 RCT’s were found, which included 1020 polyps (577 in treatment and 443 in control groups). Three studies included treatment with STSC and 3 studies used APC as the modality for margin ablation. Of the included patients, 53% were female and the average age was similar between treatment and control groups (65.9 vs. 66.1 y). Seventy-one percent of lesions were proximal to the splenic flexure. The mean follow-up to the first colonoscopy and average polyp size were comparable (6.3 vs. 6.2 mo; 28.2 vs. 28.0 mm, respectively). Pooled analysis showed that margin ablation was associated with significantly lower rates of recurrence [odds ratio (OR) 0.267, 95% CI 0.18-0.4, P<0.001] with low heterogeneity between studies (I
2=0%, P=0.47). Pooled analysis showed no significant difference between STSC and APC in terms of recurrence (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.27-1.7, I
2=0%, P=0.3) or adverse events (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.3-1.6, I
2 13%, P=0.46).

Conclusion:

Our study shows that ablation of EMR margins is very effective at preventing recurrence at first surveillance colonoscopy. We found no difference between STSC or APC in terms of polyp recurrence or adverse outcomes.
Addressing the Shortage of Academic Nurse Educators
Authors: Brown Frederick , Pajarillo Edmund J. Y. , Baker Jordan , Kabigting Edwin-Nikko R. , Bajwa Maria , Dowling-Castronovo Annemarie , Kaufman Dulcinea , Santee Roseminda , Seibold-Simpson Susan M. , Lee Jan L.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVES

This study examined how healthcare organization (HCO) leaders can impact the shortage of academic nurse educators (ANEs). A 2nd aim was to explore how HCOs, nurse leaders, and academic nursing programs can effectively collaborate to address the lack of ANEs.

BACKGROUND

The numbers of nursing school admissions and, thus, future nursing graduates are directly affected by the lack of qualified ANEs.

METHODS

A consortium of diverse ANEs was formed to research these questions using the nominal group technique.

RESULTS

Two central themes emerged from the consortium: support and collaboration. Recommendations are presented including a call for action for leaders of HCOs and academic nursing programs.

CONCLUSION

Findings of this research suggest that nurse leaders of HCOs and nursing programs develop solutions guided by these identified themes among other targeted interventions.
A Study Exploring Local Nurse Retention Data
Authors: Staup Amy , Jasin Lisa R. , Robinson Jamie , Hembree Shellie , Stolfi Adrienne , Bowling Ann
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify the nursing perceptions and factors that affect nurse retention at this local freestanding pediatric hospital.

BACKGROUND

Currently in the United States, the demand for RNs is stronger than is being supplied. This site-specific pediatric RN turnover rate was estimated at 15% per year, which is above the national average.

METHODS

A descriptive correlational study was conducted using the Revised Casey-Fink Nurse Retention Survey tool.

RESULTS

The top 2 areas that impacted nursing retention at this study site were workplace morale, and pay and benefits. These data are inconsistent with multiple other studies where decreased job satisfaction and burnout were top factors in nursing retention.

CONCLUSIONS

Although national data reveal reasons for leaving an institution or the profession, it is important to survey the local workforce to identify areas for focus in retention efforts.
Potential Benefits of Spices in Moderating Blood Pressure
Authors: Singletary Keith W.
Published: January 2025

High blood pressure is a major, avoidable global contributor to diminishing quality of life and is one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases including stroke and ischemic heart disease. Pharmacological treatment of hypertension is often initiated along with nonpharmacological interventions. Recently, there is growing consumer interest in incorporating nonnutrient products such as medicinal plant supplements, nutraceuticals, and functional foods, including herbs and spices as part of personal dietary approaches to prevent high blood pressure. This narrative review intends to provide a summary of human studies evaluating the effects of select spices on lowering blood pressure and to highlight areas for future research.
Sialoblastomas With Solid Pattern Have FGFR2 Mutations and an Unfavorable Prognosis
Authors: Jia Xiaoli , Leng NanNan , Wang Min , Zhan Xiaohong , Li Jiang
Published: January 2025

Although sialoblastoma (SBL) is defined as a low-grade malignant salivary gland anlage neoplasm in the 2022 World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Head and Neck Tumors, its histology, genetics, and behavior remain controversial due to the rarity of the tumor. Here, we performed the first comprehensive clinical, histologic, and molecular analyses of 8 SBLs to better understand their pathogenesis and prognosis. This cohort consisted of 5 boys and 3 girls, with ages ranging from birth to 9 years at diagnosis. Tumors occurred in the parotid (4), cheek (3), and submandibular glands (1). Histologically, 5 tumors primarily presented as a solid pattern consisting of primitive basaloid epithelial cells, often with necrosis. Three tumors exhibited a non-solid pattern, with 1 tumor mainly showing epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC)-like histology, whereas the other 2 tumors exhibited basal cell adenoma (BCA)-like histology. All 5 solid SBLs harbored FGFR2 mutations, and 1 also harbored mutations in PALB2, AR, and MAP2K1. In contrast, non-solid pattern tumors were characterized by HRAS mutations or significant β-catenin nuclear positivity. All 5 solid tumors recurred, 3 of them developed distant metastases, and 2 died 40 and 44 months after diagnosis. Three non-solid tumors showed no evidence of disease recurrence at 49, 144, and 132 months, suggesting a relatively favorable prognosis. Overall, SBLs can be stratified into solid and non-solid patterns, with solid pattern tumors usually having FGFR2 mutations, increasing the risk of recurrence and metastasis. This stratification underscores the importance of genetic and morphologic profiling for predicting the prognosis of SBLs.
Aberrant E-cadherin Expression in Lobular Carcinoma In Situ
Authors: Canas-Marques Rita , Blanca Ana , Graça-Lopes Raquel , Carvalho Inês , Pinto David G. , Vasconcelos Maria Antónia , Lopez-Beltran Antonio , Fonseca Isabel
Published: January 2025

E-cadherin (E-cad) immunohistochemistry is commonly used to distinguish lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) from ductal carcinoma in situ in histologically uncertain or ambiguous cases. Although most LCIS cases show an absence of E-cad expression on the neoplastic cell membranes, some show aberrant E-cad expression which can lead to diagnostic confusion. Awareness and understanding of the frequency, patterns, and distribution of aberrant E-cad staining in LCIS is crucial to achieving a correct diagnosis. We studied 55 LCIS cases diagnosed on core needle biopsy, classified each case by WHO subtype (classic, pleomorphic, or florid), and evaluated the frequency and patterns of aberrant E-cad expression using 3 different E-cad antibodies targeting the N-terminal (N), extracellular (EC), and C-terminal domains (C). Aberrant E-cad expression in one or more of the E-cad domains was identified in 17 cases (31%) and was significantly more frequent among LCIS variants (10/19, 56%) than among classic cases (7/36, 19.4%) (P=0.02). Among these 17 cases, aberrant E-cad expression was seen for all 3 domains in 10 cases, for EC+C in 4, for EC+N in 2, and for N only in 1. These results indicate that about one-third of cases of LCIS can show aberrant E-cad expression, that this is more common in variants than classic types of LCIS, and that this may be seen in different E-cad domains, most often in combination. These different patterns of aberrant E-cad expression may reflect different mechanisms of E-cad alterations in LCIS, the underlying nature of which merits further studies.
It’s Called “Informed Consent,” But How “Informed” Are Patients? A Patient Perspective on Informed Consent in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Gray Jenny L. , Mrad Iskandar C. , AlAyed Aseel M. , AlHawas Fadwa A. , AbdulHameed Najlaa M. Faiq , Mahomed Zubeda B. , AlWtaid Mashail A. , Bany Hamdan Abdullah A. , AlHarbi AlWaleed M. , AlHasani Mohammed
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

To examine the patient’s perspective of the informed consent process, particularly with regards to reading the informed consent form, understanding and recall of the informed consent.

Methods:

Between June and August 2022, 281 patients/proxies at King Fahad Medical City, Saudi Arabia, were surveyed within 7 days before having a medical procedure.

Results:

In all, 66.2% of patients did not read the consent before signing. Around 76.2% of patients said they fully understood the information given, 14.9% only partially understood, and 8.9% stated that they had not understood. A total of 90.4% of patients were able to recall their diagnosis. About 27.4% were unable to state any benefit of the procedure. In all, 19.9% were unaware if there was an alternative to the procedure. Around 40.6% were unable to state any risks and only 58.4% could remember at least one risk.

Conclusions:

A consent may be technically valid even when the patient has little understanding of the process; therefore, we must strive to ensure that we have ethically valid consent. From our findings, we conclude that informed consent has to be provided in an environment conducive to optimal patient understanding, for example, by ensuring that there is adequate time for explanation, preferably a day or 2 before the procedure. Informed consent should not be taken immediately before a (nonurgent) procedure. Secondly, due to the great variance in understanding between patients, it is vital for the physician to assess the patient’s understanding of the consent process, this may be achieved using feedback methodology.