bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O impacto do processo transexualizador na saúde reprodutiva da população transgênero
Authors: Silva Daiane Rodrigues , Abdalla Beatriz Libero , Ramo Bruna Eduarda Ribeiro , Rocha Caroline Miranda , Perez Juliana Hosken , Cota Ana Márcia de Miranda , Leite Fernanda de Andrade Dias
Published: July 2024

Introduction: From a health care perspective, gender identity is a vulnerability factor. Transgender people generally seek health services at reproductive age for the transsexualization process, unaware of its impact on fertility. Objective: To determine the percentage of transgender people who are advised on reproductive health and the impacts of the transsexualization process. Method: Descriptive cross-sectional study applied using Google Forms. Transgender participants aged 18 or over were included, captured by disseminating the reserch on social media in partnership with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) involved with the LGBTQIA+ public. Results: 105 individuals were evaluated, the majority of them underwent hormonal therapy and were not advised on fertility preservation, although more than 90% would liked to have been. 25.7% would be willing to postpone the transsexualization process to increase the chance of having biological children. Discussion: Although it alleviates dysphoric symptoms, the transsexualization process can pose risks to fertility. Fertility preservation procedures are rarely performed by transgender people, due to cost, lack of information and the desire not to delay the transsexualization process. Conclusion: 67.5% of participants were not instructed on fertility preservation, highlighting the gap in transgender health care for safe family planning and reproductive satisfaction.
Children and adolescents with primary headaches exhibit altered sensory profiles – a multi-modal investigation
Authors: Pieniak Michal , Höfer Berit , Knipping Jenny , Faria Vanda , Richter Matthias , Schriever Valentin A. , Haehner Antje , Gossrau Gudrun
Published: July 2024

Background

Pediatric headache is an increasing medical problem that has adverse effects on children’s quality of life, academic performance, and social functioning. Children with primary headaches exhibit enhanced sensory sensitivity compared to their healthy peers. However, comprehensive investigations including multimodal sensory sensitivity assessment are lacking. This study aimed to compare sensory sensitivity of children with primary headaches with their healthy peers across multiple sensory domains.

Methods

The study included 172 participants aged 6 to 17 years (M = 13.09, SD = 3.02 years; 120 girls). Of these 80 participants were patients with migraine, 23 were patients with tension-type headache, and 69 were healthy controls. The following sensory measures were obtained: Mechanical Detection Threshold (MDT), Mechanical Pain Threshold (MPT), Mechanical Pain Sensitivity (MPS), detection and pain threshold for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), olfactory and intranasal trigeminal detection threshold, and odor identification ability. Sensory sensitivity was compared between groups with a series of Kruskal-Wallis tests. Binomial regression models were used to compare the relative utility of sensory sensitivity measures in classifying participants into patients and healthy controls, as well as into patients with migraine and tension-type headache.

Results

Patients with migraine had lower MPT measured at the forearm than patients with tension-type headaches and healthy controls. MPS was higher in patients with migraine than in healthy controls. All patients with headaches had lower detection threshold of TENS and higher olfactory sensitivity. Healthy controls showed increased intranasal trigeminal sensitivity. Scores in MPS, TENS, and olfactory and trigeminal thresholds were significantly predicting presence of primary headaches. Additionally, scores in MPT, olfactory and trigeminal threshold were positive predictors of type of headache.

Conclusions

Children with primary headaches exhibit different sensory profiles than healthy controls. The obtained results suggest presence of increased overall, multimodal sensitivity in children with primary headaches, what may negatively impact daily functioning and contribute to further pain chronification.

Trial registration

The study was registered in the German Registry of Clinical Trials (DRKS) DRKS00021062.
Design of a two functional permeable reactive barrier for synergistic enzymatic and microbial bioremediation of phenol-contaminated waters: laboratory column evaluation
Authors: Mirdamadian Sayed Hossein , Asad Sedigheh , Dastgheib Seyed Mohammad Mehdi , Moghimi Hamid
Published: July 2024

The present study aimed to develop a system using a combination of enzymatic and microbial degradation techniques for removing phenol from contaminated water. In our prior research, the HRP enzyme extracted from horseradish roots was utilized within a core-shell microcapsule to reduce phenolic shock, serving as a monolayer column. To complete the phenol removal process, a second column containing degrading microorganisms was added to the last column in this research. Phenol-degrading bacteria were isolated from different microbial sources on a phenolic base medium. Additionally, encapsulated calcium peroxide nanoparticles were used to provide dissolved oxygen for the microbial population. Results showed that the both isolated strains, WC1 and CC1, were able to completely remove phenol from the contaminated influent water the range within 5 to 7 days, respectively. Molecular identification showed 99.8% similarity for WC1 isolate to Stenotrophomonas rizophila strain e-p10 and 99.9% similarity for CC1 isolate to Bacillus cereus strain IAM 12,605. The results also indicated that columns using activated sludge as a microbial source had the highest removal rate, with the microbial biofilm completely removing 100% of the 100 mg/L phenol concentration in contaminated influent water after 40 days. Finally, the concurrent use of core-shell microcapsules containing enzymes and capsules containing Stenotrophomonas sp. WC1 strain in two continuous column reactors was able to completely remove phenol from polluted water with a concentration of 500 mg/L for a period of 20 days. The results suggest that a combination of enzymatic and microbial degrading systems can be used as a new system to remove phenol from polluted streams with higher concentrations of phenol by eliminating the shock of phenol on the microbial population.
Applying Kumpfer’s resilience framework to understand the social adaptation process of the trailing parents in China
Authors: Yu Yuehui , Li Depeng , Xia Yun
Published: July 2024

Background

Trailing parents, a distinct group emerging from China’s rapid social change and urbanization, are experiencing migration in old age, posing challenges for their social adaptation. Existing research has mainly focused on the hardships faced by this group, but few studies have focused on how they cope with change and achieve some degree of successful social adaptation. This study aimed to understand the coping and social adaptation process of trailing parents in China.

Methods

This study used a qualitative research approach. A total of 24 trailing parents were invited to participate in a semi-structured interview and share their experiences and efforts to cope with the many challenges. Kumpfer’s resilience framework was used as the theoretical framework for the study design, data collection, and data analysis.

Results

This study identified several intra-family and community stressors that trailing parents may face when moving to a new environment and uncovered five key resilience characteristics that may be triggered or fostered in the presence of these stressors, including physical fitness, psychological stability, open-mindedness, learning ability, and nurturing hobbies. Individuals with resilience traits have been observed to engage in positive cognitive processing and transform the new environment. Consistent with Kumpfer’s resilience framework, this study revealed the dynamics of the stressors faced by trailing parents in the new environments, the role of resilience characteristics, and the critical influence of social support in shaping the interplay between the individual and the environment that enabled them to adapt positively.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of fostering resilience traits and leveraging positive coping mechanisms to facilitate a smoother adaptation process for trailing parents. Meanwhile, there is an urgent need to focus on creating opportunities that strengthen their social support networks.
Analysis of the immune-inflammatory indices for patients with metastatic hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Zhipeng , Liu Haoyang , Zhu Qiyu , Chen Junru , Zhao Jinge , Zeng Hao
Published: July 2024

Background

Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the progression of prostate cancer (PCa). Several immune-inflammatory indices, including neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (dNLR), lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lung immune prognostic index (LIPI), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) and systemic immune inflammation index (SII), have demonstrated their prognostic values in several solid malignancies. However, Comparisons of superiority with these seven indices’ predictive efficacy within metastatic hormone-sensitive PCa (mHSPC) and metastatic castration-resistant PCa (mCRPC) remain uncertain.

Methods

We retrospectively included 407 patients diagnosed with mHSPC and 158 patients with mCRPC at West China Hospital from 2005 to 2022. The seven immune-inflammatory indices were computed based on hematological data of mHSPC at initial diagnosis and mCRPC at progression to CRPC. Prognostic value for castration-resistant prostate cancer-free survival (CFS), overall survival (OS), prostate-specific antigen progression-free survival (PSA-PFS) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response was assessed using Kaplan–Meier curves, Cox regression models, and chi-square tests. The predictive performance of each immune-inflammatory index was assessed using the area under the curve (AUC) in time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis and C-index calculation.

Results

All seven immune-inflammatory indices were significantly associated with CFS and OS in the mHSPC cohort, as well as with PSA response, PSA-PFS, and OS in the mCRPC cohort. In the mHSPC cohort, LIPI consistently exhibited higher AUC values compared to NLR, dNLR, LMR, PLR, SII, and SIRI for predicting CFS and OS. This indicates that LIPI had a superior discriminative ability compared to the other indices (C-index of LIPI: 0.643 and 0.686 for CFS and OS, respectively). Notably, the predictive advantage of LIPI over other indices in the mHSPC stage diminished in the mCRPC stage.

Conclusions

This study firstly confirmed the prognostic value of SII, SIRI and LIPI in mHSPC and mCRPC, and revealed that LIPI had a higher predictive power than NLR, dNLR, LMR, PLR, SII and SIRI in mHSPC. These non-invasive indices can enable clinicians to quickly assess the prognosis of patients.
Demographic changes in COVID-19 mortality during the pandemic: analysis of trends in disparities among workers using California’s mortality surveillance system
Authors: Gebreegziabher Elisabeth , Bui David , Cummings Kristin J. , Frederick Matthew , Nguyen Alyssa , Collins Caroline , Melton David , Yang Alice , Jain Seema , Vergara Ximena
Published: July 2024

Background

There is limited information on the extent and patterns of disparities in COVID-19 mortality throughout the pandemic. We aimed to examine trends in disparities by demographics over variants in the pre- and post-vaccine availability period among Californian workers using a social determinants of health lens.

Methods

Using death certificates, we identified all COVID-19 deaths that occurred between January 2020 and May 2022 among workers aged 18–64 years in California (CA). We derived estimates for at-risk worker populations using the Current Population Survey. The waves of COVID-19 mortality in the pre-vaccine availability period were March 2020-June 2020 (wave 1), and July 2020-November 2020 (wave 2), and in the post-vaccine availability period: December 2020-May 2021 (wave 3), June 2021-January 2022 (wave 4), and February 2022-May 2022 (wave 5). Poisson regression models with robust standard errors were used to determine wave-specific mortality rate ratios (MRRs). We examined the change in MRR across waves by including an interaction term between each demographic characteristic and wave period in different models. The role of potential misclassification of Race/ethnicity on death certificates was examined using probabilistic quantitative bias analysis as sensitivity analysis.

Results

Among the 24.1 million working age CA population included in the study, there were 26,068 COVID-19 deaths in the period between January 2020 and May 2022. Compared with their respective reference groups, workers who were 50–64 years old, male, Native Hawaiian, Latino, or African American, foreign-born; individuals who had lower education; and unmarried were disproportionately affected by COVID-19 mortality. While disparities by sex, race/ethnicity and foreign-born status narrowed in later waves (post-vaccine availability), disparities by age, education level and marital status did not change substantially across waves.

Conclusion

Demographic disparities in COVID-19 mortality narrowed in the post-vaccine availability waves. However, the existence of disparities across all waves of the pandemic, even in an era of widespread vaccine coverage, could indicate remaining gaps in prevention and differential vulnerability. Addressing the underlying social, structural, and occupational factors that contribute to these disparities is critical for achieving health equity.
“If I die for touching him, let me die”: a rapid ethnographic assessment of cultural practices and Ebola transmission in high-risk border regions of Tanzania
Authors: Kusena Priscilla , Metta Emmy , Mohamed Hussein , Kakoko Deodatus , Nyamhanga Tumaini , Bahuguna Shalini , Sirili Nathanael , Kinanda Jonas , Araya Awet , Mwiru Alice , Magesa Stanley , Makene Lulu , Rwechungura Allan , Kirakoya Fatimata B , Rangi Jaliath , Kileo Neema , Mlembwa Jerry , Kazaura Method , Mpelembe Chipole , Frumence Gasto
Published: July 2024

Background

Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is a rare but contagious disease caused by Ebola Virus (EBOV). The first Ebola outbreaks were reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) before subsequent reported cases in Western and East African countries, including Uganda, which borders Tanzania. Proximity to EVD-infected countries raises the prospect of cross-border transmission, raising alarm in Tanzania. This study aimed to explore the cultural practices likely to prevent or escalate EVD transmission in the event of its outbreak in the country.

Methods

This rapid ethnographic assessment employed observation, interviews, and focus group discussions to collect data from people with diverse characteristics in five regions of Tanzania Mainland namely, Kagera, Kigoma, Mwanza and Songwe regions and Zanzibar Island. The qualitative data was then subjected to thematic analysis.

Findings

Cultural practices may escalate the transmission of EVD and hinder its prevention and control. These cultural practices include caring sick people at home, confirmation of death, mourning, and body preparation for burial. Communal life, ceremonies, and social gatherings were other aspects observed to have the potential for compounding EVD transmission and hindering its containment in case of an outbreak.

Conclusion

Cultural practices may escalate EVD transmission as identified in the study settings. As such, Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) activities should be interventionist in transforming cultural practices that may escalate the spread of EVD as part of preparedness, prevention, and control efforts in the event of an outbreak.
Multimorbidity, health Literacy, and quality of life among older adults in an urban slum in India: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Yogesh M. , Makwana Naresh , Trivedi Nidhi , Damor Naresh
Published: July 2024

Background

India is experiencing a rising burden of chronic disease multimorbidity due to an aging population and epidemiological transition. Older adults residing in urban slums are especially vulnerable due to challenges in managing multimorbidity amid deprived living conditions. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of multimorbidity, associated health literacy, and quality of life impact in this population.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 800 adults aged ≥ 65 years in an urban slum in Gujarat, India. Data on sociodemographics, physical and mental health conditions, health literacy (HLS-SF-47), quality of life (Short Form-12 scale), and social determinants of health were collected. Multimorbidity is ≥ 2 physical or mental health conditions in one person.

Results

The prevalence of multimorbidity was 62.5% (500/800). Multimorbidity was significantly associated with lower physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores on the SF-12 (p < 0.001). After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, the odds ratio of 0.81 indicates that for every 1 unit increase in the health literacy score, the odds of having multimorbidity decrease by 19%. Older age within the older adult cohort (per year increase) was associated with greater odds of multimorbidity (AOR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.09). Physical inactivity (AOR 1.68, 95% CI 1.027–2.77) and lack of social support (AOR 1.57, 95% CI 1.01–2.45) also increased the likelihood of multimorbidity.

Conclusion

There is a substantial burden of multimorbidity among urban slum dwellers aged ≥ 65 years in India, strongly linked to modifiable risk factors like poor health literacy and social determinants of health. Targeted interventions are essential to alleviate this disproportionate burden among urban slum older adults.
Incidence of metabolic syndrome in patients with unilateral or bilateral staghorn renal stones and its impact on percutaneous nephrolithotomy outcomes
Authors: Shen Zhonghua , Xie Linguo , Luo Di , Xie Haijie , Chen Hongyang , Liu Chunyu
Published: July 2024

Background

To evaluate the incidence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in patients with unilateral and bilateral staghorn calculi (SC) and evaluate the impact on the outcome of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).

Methods

The clinical data of patients who underwent PCNL for the treatment of SC between 2019 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. SC was divided into unilateral and bilateral. The incidence of MetS was compared between the patients with unilateral SC and the patients with bilateral SC, and the impact on the outcome of PCNL was assessed.

Results

A total of 1778 patients underwent PCNL between 2019 and 2022. After screening computed tomography, 379 patients were confirmed to have SC, finally, leaving 310 patients with follow-up and complete data to be included in the study. Eighty-four had bilateral SC and 226 had unilateral SC. The patients with bilateral SC had a significantly higher body mass index and higher rates of complete staghorn stones and metabolic syndrome. Higher body mass index, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, and MetS were present in 62.58%, 44.84%, 21.94%, 60.65% and 27.42% of all patients, respectively. The number of MetS components remained significantly associated with bilateral SC. Specifically, when the number of MetS components increases from 0 to 3–4, the likelihood of developing bilateral staghorn calculi increases by 21.967 times. Eighty-five patients with MetS( +) had a higher rate of overall complications (number (N)(%), 29 (34.12) vs.33 (14.46), P < 0.001) and a comparable stone-free rate to 225 MetS(-) patients. Multivariable analysis confirmed that hyperlipidaemia (P = 0.044, odds ratio [OR] = 1.991, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.020–3.888) and MetS (P = 0.005, OR = 2.427, 95% CI 1.316–4.477) were independent risk factors for overall complications.

Conclusions

MetS is correlated with the formation of bilateral SC and is the main predictor for complications of PCNL especially for low-grade complications (I-II).
Recombinant human enamelin produced in Escherichia coli promotes mineralization in vitro
Authors: Halablab Monalissa , Wallman Lovisa , Bonde Johan
Published: July 2024

Background

Enamelin is an enamel matrix protein that plays an essential role in the formation of enamel, the most mineralized tissue in the human body. Previous studies using animal models and proteins from natural sources point to a key role of enamelin in promoting mineralization events during enamel formation. However, natural sources of enamelin are scarce and with the current study we therefore aimed to establish a simple microbial production method for recombinant human enamelin to support its use as a mineralization agent.

Results

In the study the 32 kDa fragment of human enamelin was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli and could be obtained using immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography purification (IMAC), dialysis, and lyophilization. This workflow resulted in a yield of approximately 10 mg enamelin per liter culture. Optimal conditions for IMAC purification were obtained using Ni2+ as the metal ion, and when including 30 mM imidazole during binding and washing steps. Furthermore, in vitro mineralization assays demonstrated that the recombinant enamelin could promote calcium phosphate mineralization at a concentration of 0.5 mg/ml.

Conclusions

These findings address the scarcity of enamelin by facilitating its accessibility for further investigations into the mechanism of enamel formation and open new avenues for developing enamel-inspired mineralized biomaterials.
The current status and challenges of bioethics education in undergraduate medical education in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Shirazi Bushra , Riaz Qamar , Jafarey Aamir Mustafa , Ahmed Rashida , Shamim Mohammad Shahid
Published: July 2024

Background

The importance of including bioethics in the medical curricula has been recognized globally. Certain countries including Pakistan continue to lag behind although some developments have occurred recently.

Objectives

The research aimed to provide a snapshot of bioethics education in undergraduate medical colleges in Karachi, Pakistan. The secondary objectives included identifying factors promoting or inhibiting integration of bioethics into the curriculum.

Methods

A two-pronged strategy was used to collect data including a website review of medical colleges, in existence for more than ten years, recognized by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), the regulating body for undergraduate medical education in Pakistan. The other arm employed in-depth interviews with medical educationists in colleges fulfilling inclusion criteria. Data from the website was analyzed and presented as frequencies. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis method which involved coding of transcripts, multiple readings and arriving at subthemes and themes iteratively.

Results

Thirteen medical colleges were included for the website review, of which four were from public sector. Three medical colleges used the word “ethics” in their vision and mission statement and four had provided a detailed curriculum for ethics on their website.

Thematic framework included four broad themes: 1) Need for Bioethics Education, 2) Current Status of Bioethics Education 3) Challenges in integration of bioethics in medical curriculum and 4) Recommendations for integration of bioethics in the Curriculum. Participants were in agreement that bioethics was important in development of future physicians. Participants identified various challenges, foremost being shortage of trained faculty, lack of institutional buy-in and overcrowded curriculum.

Conclusion

The study identified sporadic inclusion of bioethics in undergraduate medical curricula, left to the discretion of individual institutions. Since Karachi is a cosmopolitan city, the findings may reasonably reflect the situation in other parts of the country. While bioethics is recognized as an important field, it will continue to remain an orphan subject in the curricula unless the regulatory and accreditation bodies make it compulsory for institutions to include ethics in their curricula.
Impact of linkage level on inferences from big data analyses in health and medical research: an empirical study
Authors: Lee Bora , Lee Young-Kyun , Kim Sung Han , Oh HyunJin , Won Sungho , Jang Suk-Yong , Jeon Ye Jin , Yoo Bit-Na , Bak Jean-Kyung
Published: July 2024

Background

Linkage errors that occur according to linkage levels can adversely affect the accuracy and reliability of analysis results. This study aimed to identify the differences in results according to personally identifiable information linkage level, sample size, and analysis methods through empirical analysis.

Methods

The difference between the results of linkage in directly identifiable information (DII) and indirectly identifiable information (III) linkage levels was set as III linkage based on name, date of birth, and sex and DII linkage based on resident registration number. The datasets linked at each level were named as databaseIII (DBIII) and databaseDII (DBDII), respectively. Considering the analysis results of the DII-linked dataset as the gold standard, descriptive statistics, group comparison, incidence estimation, treatment effect, and moderation effect analysis results were assessed.

Results

The linkage rates for DBDII and DBIII were 71.1% and 99.7%, respectively. Regarding descriptive statistics and group comparison analysis, the difference in effect in most cases was “none” to “very little.” With respect to cervical cancer that had a relatively small sample size, analysis of DBIII resulted in an underestimation of the incidence in the control group and an overestimation of the incidence in the treatment group (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.62 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.63–4.23] in DBIII vs. 1.80 [95% CI: 1.18–2.73] in DBDII). Regarding prostate cancer, there was a conflicting tendency with the treatment effect being over or underestimated according to the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results summary staging (HR = 2.27 [95% CI: 1.91–2.70] in DBIII vs. 1.92 [95% CI: 1.70–2.17] in DBDII for the localized stage; HR = 1.80 [95% CI: 1.37–2.36] in DBIII vs. 2.05 [95% CI: 1.67–2.52] in DBDII for the regional stage).

Conclusions

To prevent distortion of the analyses results in health and medical research, it is important to check that the patient population and sample size by each factor of interest (FOI) are sufficient when different data are linked using DBDII. In cases involving a rare disease or with a small sample size for FOI, there is a high likelihood that a DII linkage is unavoidable.
Emodin alleviates intestinal ischemia–reperfusion injury through antioxidant stress, anti-inflammatory responses and anti-apoptosis effects via Akt-mediated HO-1 upregulation
Authors: Liu Yinyin , Ji Tuo , Jiang Haixing , Chen Meng , Liu Wanli , Zhang Zongze , He Xianghu
Published: July 2024

Background

Intestinal ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury is a severe vascular emergency. Previous research indicated the protective effects of Emodin on I/R injury. Our study aims to explore the effect of Emodin on intestinal I/R (II/R) injury and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice and Caco-2 cells were used for in vivo and in vitro studies. We established an animal model of II/R injury by temporarily occluding superior mesenteric artery. We constructed an oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) cell model using a hypoxia-reoxygenation incubator. Different doses of Emodin were explored to determine the optimal therapeutic dose. Additionally, inhibitors targeting the protein kinase B (Akt) or Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were administered to investigate their potential protective mechanisms.

Results

Our results demonstrated that in animal experiments, Emodin mitigated barrier disruption, minimized inflammation, reduced oxidative stress, and inhibited apoptosis. When Akt or HO-1 was inhibited, the protective effect of Emodin was eliminated. Inhibiting Akt also reduced the level of HO-1. In cell experiments, Emodin reduced inflammation and apoptosis in the OGD/R cell model. Additionally, when Akt or HO-1 was inhibited, the protective effect of Emodin was weakened.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that Emodin may protect the intestine against II/R injury through the Akt/HO-1 signaling pathway.
METTL3-mediated NDUFB5 m6A modification promotes cell migration and mitochondrial respiration to promote the wound healing of diabetic foot ulcer
Authors: Wang Tao , Li Xu , Tao Yue , Wang Xiaojun , Li Limeng , Liu Jianjun
Published: July 2024

Background

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is the most devastating complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) and plays a major role in disability and death in DM patients. NADH: ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit B5 (NDUFB5) plays an important role in maintaining mitochondrial respiration, but whether it is involved in regulating the progression of advanced glycation end products (AGEs)-mediated DFU is still unclear.

Methods

Firstly, the role of AGEs on cell viability, migration, and mitochondrial respiration in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was explored in vitro. Next, NDUFB5 expression was detected in human samples and AGEs-treated HUVECs, and NDUFB5’s effect on AGEs-induced HUVECs injury and skin wound in diabetic mice was further clarified. In addition, the role of m6A modification mediated by methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) in regulating NDUFB5 expression and AGEs-induced HUVECs injury was investigated.

Results

NDUFB5 promoted cell viability, migration, and mitochondrial respiration in AGEs-treated HUVECs, whereas mitochondrial fusion promoter M1 facilitated cell viability, migration, and mitochondrial oxiadative respiration in NDUFB5 knockdown HUVECs. Meanwhile, NDUFB5 promotes skin wound healing in diabetic mice. Besides, METTL3-mediated m6A modification and insulin like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) enhanced NDUFB5 expression in HUVECs. Furthermore, METTL3 promoted cell viability, migration, and mitochondrial respiration in AGEs-treated HUVECs by increasing NDUFB5.

Conclusion

METTL3-mediated NDUFB5 m6A modification inhibits AGEs-induced cell injury in HUVECs. METTL3 and NDUFB5 might serve as potential targets for DFU therapy in the future.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of canine enteric coronavirus prevalence in dogs of mainland China
Authors: Chen Chaoyang , Ji Xiaoxia , Zhang Tingting , Ge Lin , Sun Mengting , Yang Mengting , Li Cheng
Published: July 2024

Background

Canine enteric coronavirus (CECoV) is a prevalent infectious disease among dogs worldwide, yet its epidemiology in mainland China remains poorly understood. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence of CECoV in mainland China and identify factors influencing its prevalence.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases for studies regarding CECoV epidemiology of China. PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang, and CQVIP were searched to obtain the studies. Eligible studies were selected based on predefined criteria, and data were extracted and synthesized. The quality the studies was assessed using the JBI assessment tool. Heterogeneity was checked using I2 test statistics followed by subgroup and sensitivity analysis. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore variations in CECoV prevalence by factors such as year, region, season, health status, social housing type, gender, age, and breed. Publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot and eggers test that was followed by trim and fill analysis.

Results

A total of 27 studies involving 21,034 samples were included in the meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of CECoV in mainland China was estimated to be 0.30 (95% CI 0.24–0.37), indicating persistent circulation of the virus. Subgroup analyses revealed higher prevalence rates in younger dogs, multi-dog households, apparently healthy dogs, and certain regions such as southwest China. Seasonal variations were observed, with lower prevalence rates in summer. However, no significant differences in prevalence were found by gender.

Conclusions

This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of CECoV in mainland China, highlighting the persistent circulation of the virus and identifying factors associated with higher prevalence rates. Continuous monitoring and surveillance efforts, along with research into accurate detection methods and preventive measures, are essential for the effective control of CECoV and mitigation of its potential impact on animal and human health.
Physiological and clinical effects of trunk inclination adjustment in patients with respiratory failure: a scoping review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Benites Martín H. , Zapata-Canivilo Marcelo , Poblete Fabian , Labbe Francisco , Battiato Romina , Ferre Andrés , Dreyse Jorge , Bugedo Guillermo , Bruhn Alejandro , Costa Eduardo L. V. , Retamal Jaime
Published: July 2024

Background

Adjusting trunk inclination from a semi-recumbent position to a supine-flat position or vice versa in patients with respiratory failure significantly affects numerous aspects of respiratory physiology including respiratory mechanics, oxygenation, end-expiratory lung volume, and ventilatory efficiency. Despite these observed effects, the current clinical evidence regarding this positioning manoeuvre is limited. This study undertakes a scoping review of patients with respiratory failure undergoing mechanical ventilation to assess the effect of trunk inclination on physiological lung parameters.

Methods

The PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases were systematically searched from 2003 to 2023. Interventions: Changes in trunk inclination. Measurements: Four domains were evaluated in this study: 1) respiratory mechanics, 2) ventilation distribution, 3) oxygenation, and 4) ventilatory efficiency.

Results

After searching the three databases and removing duplicates, 220 studies were screened. Of these, 37 were assessed in detail, and 13 were included in the final analysis, comprising 274 patients. All selected studies were experimental, and assessed respiratory mechanics, ventilation distribution, oxygenation, and ventilatory efficiency, primarily within 60 min post postural change.

Conclusion

In patients with acute respiratory failure, transitioning from a supine to a semi-recumbent position leads to decreased respiratory system compliance and increased airway driving pressure. Additionally, C-ARDS patients experienced an improvement in ventilatory efficiency, which resulted in lower PaCO2 levels. Improvements in oxygenation were observed in a few patients and only in those who exhibited an increase in EELV upon moving to a semi-recumbent position. Therefore, the trunk inclination angle must be accurately reported in patients with respiratory failure under mechanical ventilation.
An investigation of the molecular characterization of the tripartite motif (TRIM) family and primary validation of TRIM31 in gastric cancer
Authors: Ding Yixin , Lu Yangyang , Guo Jing , Chen Shuming , Han Xiaoxi , Wang Shibo , Zhang Mengqi , Wang Rui , Song Jialin , Wang Kongjia , Qiu Wensheng , Qi Weiwei
Published: July 2024

Most TRIM family members characterized by the E3-ubiquitin ligases, participate in ubiquitination and tumorigenesis. While there is a dearth of a comprehensive investigation for the entire family in gastric cancer (GC). By combining the TCGA and GEO databases, common TRIM family members (TRIMs) were obtained to investigate gene expression, gene mutations, and clinical prognosis. On the basis of TRIMs, a consensus clustering analysis was conducted, and a risk assessment system and prognostic model were developed. Particularly, TRIM31 with clinical prognostic and diagnostic value was chosen for single-gene bioinformatics analysis, in vitro experimental validation, and immunohistochemical analysis of clinical tissue microarrays. The combined dataset consisted of 66 TRIMs, of which 52 were differentially expressed and 43 were differentially prognostic. Significant survival differences existed between the gene clusters obtained by consensus clustering analysis. Using 4 differentially expressed genes identified by multivariate Cox regression and LASSO regression, a risk scoring system was developed. Higher risk scores were associated with a poorer prognosis, suppressive immune cell infiltration, and drug resistance. Transcriptomic data and clinical sample tissue microarrays confirmed that TRIM31 was highly expressed in GC and associated with a poor prognosis. Pathway enrichment analysis, cell migration and colony formation assay, EdU assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, and mitochondrial membrane potential assay revealed that TRIM31 may be implicated in cell cycle regulation and oxidative stress-related pathways, contribute to gastric carcinogenesis. This study investigated the whole functional and expression profile and a risk score system based on the TRIM family in GC. Further investigation centered around TRIM31 offers insight into the underlying mechanisms of action exhibited by other members of its family in the context of GC.
Cultivation of earthworms and analysis of associated bacterial communities during earthworms’ growth using two types of agricultural wastes
Authors: Qian Feng , Lu Fuzhi , Yang Liping , Li Tingkao
Published: July 2024

Earthworm cultivation can effectively promote the resource utilization of agricultural waste. The efficient utilization of agricultural waste by earthworms mainly depends on the microbial communities in the guts. This study used silkworm excrement and cow manure as substrates for earthworm cultivation and investigated the associated bacterial communities during earthworms’ growth. The survival rate of earthworms remained above 89% after 21 days of feeding with the two substrates. Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes constituted the predominant bacterial communities in earthworm growth, accounting for over 81% of the relative abundance in both guts and vermicompost. The bacteria richness and diversity in the foregut and midgut of earthworm were lower than those in the hindgut. The prediction function of intestinal bacterial communities of earthworms cultured with two substrates mainly involved biosynthesis, decomposition and energy production.
Chrysin-loaded PEGylated liposomes protect against alloxan-induced diabetic neuropathy in rats: the interplay between endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy
Authors: Abd El-Emam Mahran Mohamed , Behairy Amany , Mostafa Mahmoud , khamis Tarek , Osman Noura M. S. , Alsemeh Amira Ebrahim , Mansour Mohamed Fouad
Published: July 2024

Background

Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is recognized as a significant complication arising from diabetes mellitus (DM). Pathogenesis of DN is accelerated by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which inhibits autophagy and contributes to disease progression. Autophagy is a highly conserved mechanism crucial in mitigating cell death induced by ER stress. Chrysin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, can be found abundantly in honey, propolis, and various plant extracts. Despite possessing advantageous attributes such as being an antioxidant, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anticancer agent, chrysin exhibits limited bioavailability. The current study aimed to produce a more bioavailable form of chrysin and discover how administering chrysin could alter the neuropathy induced by Alloxan in male rats.

Methods

Chrysin was formulated using PEGylated liposomes to boost its bioavailability and formulation. Chrysin PEGylated liposomes (Chr-PLs) were characterized for particle size diameter, zeta potential, polydispersity index, transmission electron microscopy, and in vitro drug release. Rats were divided into four groups: control, Alloxan, metformin, and Chr-PLs. In order to determine Chr- PLs’ antidiabetic activity and, by extension, its capacity to ameliorate DN, several experiments were carried out. These included measuring acetylcholinesterase, fasting blood glucose, insulin, genes dependent on autophagy or stress in the endoplasmic reticulum, and histopathological analysis.

Results

According to the results, the prepared Chr-PLs exhibited an average particle size of approximately 134 nm. They displayed even distribution of particle sizes. The maximum entrapment efficiency of 90.48 ± 7.75% was achieved. Chr-PLs effectively decreased blood glucose levels by 67.7% and elevated serum acetylcholinesterase levels by 40% compared to diabetic rats. Additionally, Chr-PLs suppressed the expression of ER stress-related genes (ATF-6, CHOP, XBP-1, BiP, JNK, PI3K, Akt, and mTOR by 33%, 39.5%, 32.2%, 44.4%, 40.4%, 39.2%, 39%, and 35.9%, respectively). They also upregulated the miR-301a-5p expression levels by 513% and downregulated miR-301a-5p expression levels by 65%. They also boosted the expression of autophagic markers (AMPK, ULK1, Beclin 1, and LC3-II by 90.3%, 181%, 109%, and 78%, respectively) in the sciatic nerve. The histopathological analysis also showed that Chr-PLs inhibited sciatic nerve degeneration.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that Chr-PLs may be helpful in the protection against DN via regulation of ER stress and autophagy.

Graphical Abstract
Mapping the influence of hydrocarbons mixture on molecular mechanisms, involved in breast and lung neoplasms: in silico toxicogenomic data-mining
Authors: Abu-Bakar A’edah , Ismail Maihani , Zulkifli M. Zaqrul Ieman , Zaini Nur Aini Sofiyya , Shukor Nur Izzah Abd , Harun Sarahani , Inayat-Hussain Salmaan Hussain
Published: July 2024

Background

Exposure to chemical mixtures inherent in air pollution, has been shown to be associated with the risk of breast and lung cancers. However, studies on the molecular mechanisms of exposure to a mixture of these pollutants, such as hydrocarbons, in the development of breast and lung cancers are scarce. We utilized in silico toxicogenomic analysis to elucidate the molecular pathways linked to both cancers that are influenced by exposure to a mixture of selected hydrocarbons. The Comparative Toxicogenomics Database and Cytoscape software were used for data mining and visualization.

Results

Twenty-five hydrocarbons, common in air pollution with carcinogenicity classification of 1 A/B or 2 (known/presumed or suspected human carcinogen), were divided into three groups: alkanes and alkenes, halogenated hydrocarbons, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. The in silico data-mining revealed 87 and 44 genes commonly interacted with most of the investigated hydrocarbons are linked to breast and lung cancer, respectively. The dominant interactions among the common genes are co-expression, physical interaction, genetic interaction, co-localization, and interaction in shared protein domains. Among these genes, only 16 are common in the development of both cancers. Benzo(a)pyrene and tetrachlorodibenzodioxin interacted with all 16 genes. The molecular pathways potentially affected by the investigated hydrocarbons include aryl hydrocarbon receptor, chemical carcinogenesis, ferroptosis, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, interleukin 17 signaling pathway, lipid and atherosclerosis, NRF2 pathway, and oxidative stress response.

Conclusions

Within the inherent limitations of in silico toxicogenomics tools, we elucidated the molecular pathways associated with breast and lung cancer development potentially affected by hydrocarbons mixture. Our findings indicate adaptive responses to oxidative stress and inflammatory damages are instrumental in the development of both cancers. Additionally, ferroptosis—a non-apoptotic programmed cell death driven by lipid peroxidation and iron homeostasis—was identified as a new player in these responses. Finally, AHR potential involvement in modulating IL-8, a critical gene that mediates breast cancer invasion and metastasis to the lungs, was also highlighted. A deeper understanding of the interplay between genes associated with these pathways, and other survival signaling pathways identified in this study, will provide invaluable knowledge in assessing the risk of inhalation exposure to hydrocarbons mixture. The findings offer insights into future in vivo and in vitro laboratory investigations that focus on inhalation exposure to the hydrocarbons mixture.
Evaluation of the association of polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss among women in Kazakhstan
Authors: Turesheva Akbayan
Published: July 2024

Background

There is considerable global discourse on the impact of insufficient vitamin D levels, known for their immunosuppressive properties, on recurrent pregnancy loss. Vitamin D deficiency affects 35% to 80% of the population. Despite advancements in molecular genetics, the study of vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) polymorphisms remains crucial. This study examined the correlation between VDR polymorphisms and idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss.

Methods

A narrative literature review with a meta-analysis of 85 sources from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus was conducted, focusing on studies from 2020 to 2022. The analysis included studies on vitamin D and miscarriage, adhering to ICD-10 criteria, and VDR gene allele analysis through PCR-RFLP.

Results

A comprehensive narrative analysis of the available scientific literature verified the link between comorbidities and vitamin D deficiencies, which can lead to recurrent pregnancy loss by hindering adaptive mechanisms and exacerbating complications.

Conclusion

The most researched VDR gene polymorphisms, including FokI (rs2228570), BsmI (rs1544410), ApaI (rs7975232), TaqI (rs731236), and Cdx2, are linked to various health issues, particularly reproductive outcomes. The FokI (rs2228570) polymorphism in the VDR gene is a critical predictor of vitamin D levels, influencing pregnancy success. These findings are essential for assessing the risk of idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss and developing new prevention and treatment approaches.