bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Britannin Induces Autophagy-Dependent Apoptosis via the Reactive Oxygen Species/Adenosine 5′-monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase-unc-51-Like Autophagy Activating Kinase 1 Axis in Cervical Cancer as Detected Using Nanomagnetic Beads
Authors: Liang Yingchao , Wang Beili , Pu Xiaowen , Wu Xiaoxiong , Yang Liang
Published: April 2023

Cervical cancer is a unique and common malignancy that occurs in women. Britannin has been proven to inhibit the progression of human liver and breast cancers. However, its efficacy in cervical cancer is still unclear. Human cervical squamous cell carcinoma SiHa cells were used to analyze
the effect of britannin administration on cervical tumors by xenotransplantation of human tumor cells. The Cell Counting Kit-8 was used to determine the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of britannin on SiHa, and the cell invasion ability was measured using Transwell
invasion assay. Cell migration was measured using the scratch-healing assay, while the clonogenic assay was performed to determine cell proliferation. Dichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate was used to label reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells or tissues. Intracellular autophages were stained
with monodansylcadaverine. Western blotting assisted by nanomagnetic beads was performed to study the expression of p62, light chain 3 beta (LC3B), Beclin 1, and autophagy-related protein 5 (ATG5) in cells or tissues, as well as the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and
unc-51-like autophagy activating kinase 1 (ULK1). Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to analyze the pathological changes in the tumor cells. The expression of Ki-67, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), and Bax in the tumor cells was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The IC50 obtained
for britannin against SiHa was 10.01 μM. Britannin inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and migration of SiHa cells, and promoted the generation and autophagy of ROS in tumor cells and tissues. Furthermore, p-AMPK/AMPK and p-ULK1/ULK1, LC3B, Beclin 1, and ATG5 were upregulated,
whereas p62 was downregulated in cells and tissues. Tumor development was inhibited; tissue inflammation was reduced; Ki-67 and Bcl-2 expression was downregulated; and Bax expression was upregulated. The expression of cleaved caspase-3, cleaved poly-ADP-ribose polymerases, and voltage-dependent
anion-selective channel 1 was upregulated. These effects can be partially reversed by the AMPK inhibitor dorsomorphin dihydrochloride (BML-275). In vivo and in vitro studies showed that britannin upregulated the of ROS content of human cervical squamous cell carcinoma cells,
leading to significant autophagy, thereby inhibiting the occurrence and development of cervical squamous cell carcinoma. The mechanism may be related to the ROS/AMPK/ULK1 signaling pathway.
Transplantation of Retinal Progenitor Cells in a NanoFe2O3 Delivery System to Alleviate Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Zhao Jingcong , Yan Jing , Fan Weiying
Published: April 2023

Retinal precursor cells (RPCs) have weak migration and infiltration abilities and are susceptible to host immune rejection. An effective delivery system for the transplantation of RPCs to the target needs to be further studied to improve their efficacy in treating retinitis pigmentosa
(RP). Thus, we constructed a nanoFe2O3–RPC nano-delivery system to transplant RPCs into the host retina. First, we successfully isolated RPCs from surgical samples and established the stability of the nanoFe2O3 carrier. We demonstrated that
nanoFe2O3 enhances the transplantation efficiency of RPCs to target retina tissue and facilitates the replacement by these stem cells of dysfunctional photoreceptor cells while simultaneously retaining the viability and differentiation ability of the RPCs. This delivery
system successfully restored ailing pigment epithelial cells to a healthier status and improved the thickness of the pigment epithelial layer in an RP rat model. Thus, the nanoFe2O3–RPC system offers therapeutic benefits to patients with RP and presents a potential
option for stem cell replacement therapy in RP.
Advances in the Applications of Mucin 1 in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yang Ben , Li Hanyue , Wang Fei , Zuo Changjun , Qi Yicheng , Song Tiantian , Sun Sipeng , Kou Rongguan , Wang Anping , Wang Hui , Shi Mengqi , Yu Wenjing , Wang Yubing , Gao Zhiqin
Published: April 2023

Mucin 1 belongs to the membrane-binding mucoprotein subfamily, which is normally a highly O-glycosylated polymer protein that is mainly expressed in epithelial cells and some hematopoietic cells. Mucin 1 was overexpressed in many cancer tissues compared to normal tissue with a lower
degree of glycosylation. Mucin 1 is weakly O-glycosylated in tumor cells, the core site is exposed, and it is widely distributed on the surface of tumor cells, making it an important tumor marker. Mucin 1 has a wide range of applications in tumor diagnosis, tumor drug targeted delivery, and
immunodeficiency therapy. Animal studies and clinical studies suggest that mucin 1 can be used as a target in tumor-targeted therapy. This review covers our current summary of the structure and function of mucin 1, reveals its expression in human tumors, focuses on mucin 1-based targeted therapy
regimens, and summarizes the research progress of mucin 1 in targeted tumor therapy.
In Vitro Characterization and Histological Evaluations of Paclitaxel-Loaded Nanofibrous Matrices, as Potential Local Therapeutic for Treating Breast Cancer: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study
Authors: Shi Kezhi
Published: April 2023

In the current study, paclitaxel was loaded into electrospun gelatin nanofibers in order to produce a potential anti-cancer membrane. The developed system was studied for its cytotoxic effects against breast cancer MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, biodegradation rate, microstructure, cell
migration assay, and tensile strength were performed for the evaluation of anticancer local therapeutic. Study showed that, the electrospun membranes were composed of smooth and web-like nanofibers. In addition, the paclitaxel-loaded nanofibers were toxic against breast cancer cells and prevented
their migration. Real time PCR assay showed that the anticancer activity of the developed system might be through regulation of DJ-1/KLF 17 signalling pathway.
Preoperative Diagnosis and Chemotherapy of Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma with Ultrasound Image Based on Nano Bubble
Authors: Bi Jingjing , Li Guoyun , Chen Juan , Yang Ying , Li Cimei
Published: April 2023

This work aimed to improve the preoperative detection rate of endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) by ultrasound imaging (USI). The clinical manifestations and USI findings of ESS were retrospectively analyzed, and the characteristics of USI findings of patients with ESS were summarized.
The conclusion showed that the patients with ESS exhibited no remarkable difference in onset age and clinical manifestations compared with those with uterine fibroid (UF). Therefore, it was more difficult to distinguish the ESS and UF based on the onset age and clinical manifestations only.
Therefore, when the USI displayed as a polycystic mixed echo located at an unclear boundary and the blood flow signal of the mass was rich and disordered, it may consider the possibility of ESS. Improving the understanding of ESS is conductive in reducing the rate of clinical misdiagnosis.
The 3-year overall survival rate (OSR) of patients with ESS was 82.5%, the 5-year OSR was 78.1%, the average overall survival period (OSP) was 42 months, and the 3-year disease-free survival rate (DFSR) was 80.7%.
The Role of Long Non-Coding RNA LINC00467 in Gastric Carcinoma: High Proliferation, Migration and Autophagy
Authors: Wu Jinhui , Liu Yang , Pang Yanchao , Sun Xiaohong , Sun Xiaofei
Published: April 2023

The goal of this study is to investigate the role of long non-coding RNA LINC00467 in gastric carcinoma (GC) progression. Differential expressions of LINC00467 in GC samples were detected. By analyzing the follow-up data of recruited GC patients, the influence of LINC00467 on their
prognosis was assessed. After knockdown of LINC00467 in SGC7901 and MKN45 cells, cell autophagy was examined by GFP-LC3 puncta assay and Western blot analyses on autophagy-associated genes. Additionally, cell growth and migration were assessed using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine
(EdU), and transwell assays. The connection between LINC00467 and miR-18a-5p was studied through a luciferase assay and Pearson correlation analysis. Increased expression of LINC00467 was observed in GC samples and its elevated levels predicted a poor outcome for GC patients. The suppression
of LINC00467 reduced the proliferative and migratory capacities of SGC7901 and MKN45 cells. LINC00467 level was closely linked to autophagy activity in GC. The level of miR-18a-5p was decreased in GC tissues and had an inverse correlation with LINC00467, which was established as the target
of miR-18a-5p. Upregulated LINC00467 induces growth, metastasis and autophagy activity in GC through negatively regulating miR-18a-5p level, thus leading to the poor prognosis in GC patients.
Efficient Production of Evolutionary Nanoparticle Newcastle Disease Virus
Authors: Luo Yiqun , Liu Xiyu , Zhang Zhikun , Huang Rongping , Peng Qiuxia , Zhao Yongxiang , Zhong Liping , Gan Lu
Published: April 2023

Viruses are routinely isolated from infected cells through freeze–thaw (F–T) cycles or sonication. The aim of this study was to compare different methods for efficient isolation of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) particles from BSR-T7/5 (BSR) cells. The BSR cells were infected
with NDV LaSota strain, and the virus particles were isolated via F–T, sonication, sonication followed by F–T, and F–T followed by sonication. The infection and proliferation kinetics of the virus were analyzed by cytopathic observation and monitoring of hemagglutination
(HA) titers. The virus isolated by sequential F–T and sonication was amplified through five passages of BSR cells, and then used to infect the HepG2 cells. The viability and apoptosis rates of the infected cells were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining
respectively. We successfully obtained NDV particles from persistently infected BSR cells through all four methods, which indicated that the LaSota can effectively replicate in BSR cells. However, F–T followed by sonication was optimum in terms of separation effect. The virus particles
isolated by this method still exhibited cytolytic activity against HepG2 cells. Thus, our novel method can be applied to NDV production and generation of tumor vaccines.
Effect and Mechanism of Electro-Acupuncture on Neuralgia of Cervical Spondylotic Radiculopathy Based on the Neuron-Gliocyte-Chemokine Signaling Pathway
Authors: Jiang Xueyu , Zhu Wei , Yan Sen , Ren Xiang , Liu Qiong , Zhang Guoshan , Hu Lin , Fu Mandi , Liu Zhili , Chang Xiaorong
Published: April 2023

Background: Cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR) is the most common type of cervical spondylosis, which mainly presents as radioactive neuralgia. Neuralgia is closely related to gliocyte in the central nervous system. Therefore, to investigate the therapeutic effect and mechanism
of LAA (astrocyte inhibitor) electro-acupuncture on neuralgia in rats with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy based on the neuron-gliocyte-chemokine signaling pathway. Material & Methods: The models of rats with neuralgia in cervical spondylotic radiculopathy were established and
the intervention of electro-acupuncture and LAA were carried out. All rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (12 rats in each group). Control group, Model group, Sham operation group and Electro-acupuncture group. Results: The rats were bound to the plate in a prone position and treated
with electro-acupuncture at Jiaji point, with dense wave frequency of 50 Hz and wave repacking frequency of 10 Hz, once a day, 20 min each time, for 14 consecutive days. The results found that the content of calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP), adenylate cyclase (AC), substances P in C6–C7
primary sensory neuron terminal of the spinal cord segment were significantly decreased in electro-acupuncture group compared with model group. Relative expression of RNA levels of protein kinase (PKC), Ca2+ channel protein (VGCC, CCL2 and CXC3L1) in electro-acupuncture group were
significantly decreased compared with model group. Westernblot detected that the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, TNF-α, NMDA and AMPA proteins in LAA+electro+acupuncture group were obvioulsy decreased. It indicates that neuralgia is closely related to gliocyte in
the central nervous system, and also proves that LAA+electro acupuncture can effectively relieve neuralgia caused by cervical spondylosis.
The airflow distribution and aerosol diffusion rules in the negative pressure isolation ward
Authors: Peng Shanbi , Luo Xue , Yu Bin , Huang Li , Liu Enbin
Published: April 2023

Negative pressure wards are significant in preventing the spread of infectious pathogens which play a crucial role in fighting against COVID-19. Owing to the negative pressure, contaminated air with pathogens is not able to flow from the wards to non-contaminated zones while fresh filtered air will be transported to the ward via the ventilation system. As airflow controlled by ventilation systems affects the motion of pathogens, for example, infectious aerosol particles, the ability of a negative pressure ward to reduce the risk of infection highly relies on an effective ventilation system. In this investigation, impacts of airflow patterns under various human postures and ventilation processes aerosols diffusion are analyzed via the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. According to the results, among three airflow patterns, the highest contaminant removal efficiency is 57% at 200 s with the top supply and bottom return mode; besides, in three postures, in the case that the patient is in a standing position, the contaminant removal efficiency is the highest. Furthermore, it is found that the best airflow scheme is a slit tuyere in the ward, with a top supply and side return mode and a sitting position for the patient. This study may provide a reference for the design of airflow in negative pressure isolation wards, control of contaminants, and prevention of viral infections, so as to ensure a good working and recovery environment for medical staff and patients.
Investigation of the Proliferative Potential of FGF21 or FGF19 in Liver-Specific FGFR4-Deficient Mice
Authors: Wäse Kerstin , Bartels Thomas , Schwahn Uwe , Kabiri Mostafa
Published: April 2023

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and FGF15/FGF19 belong to the same subgroup of FGFs and are believed to have therapeutic potential in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and associated metabolic dysfunctionalities and pathological conditions. FGF19 has been proposed to induce hyperplasia and liver tumors in FVB mice (named after its susceptibility to Friend leukemia virus B), mediated by the FGF receptor 4 (FGFR4). The goal of this work was to investigate whether FGF21 might also have a potential proliferative effect mediated via FGFR4 using liver-specific Fgfr4 knockout (KO) mice. We conducted a mechanistic 7-day study involving female Fgfr4 fl/fl and Fgfr4 KO mice with a treatment regimen of twice daily or daily subcutaneous injections of FGF21 or FGF19 (positive control), respectively. The Ki-67 liver labeling index (LI) was evaluated by a semi-automated bioimaging analysis. The results showed a statistically significant increase in FGF21- and FGF19-treated Fgfr4 fl/fl mice. Interestingly, in Fgfr4 KO mice, this effect was absent following both treatments of FGF19 and FGF21, indicating that not only the FGFR4 receptor is pivotal for the mediation of hepatocellular proliferation by FGF19 leading finally to liver tumors but it seems also that FGFR4/FGF21 signaling has an impact on the hepatocellular proliferative activity, which does not promote the formation of hepatocellular liver tumors based on the current knowledge.
A critical evaluation of QIDS-SR-16 using data from a trial of psilocybin therapy versus escitalopram treatment for depression
Authors: Weiss Brandon , Erritzoe David , Giribaldi Bruna , Nutt David J , Carhart-Harris Robin L
Published: April 2023

Background:

In a recent clinical trial examining the comparative efficacy of psilocybin therapy (PT) versus escitalopram treatment (ET) for major depressive disorder, 14 of 16 major efficacy outcome measures yielded results that favored PT, but the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology, Self-Report, 16 items (QIDS-SR16) did not.

Aims:

The present study aims to (1) rationally and psychometrically account for discrepant results between outcome measures and (2) to overcome psychometric problems particular to individual measures by re-examining between-condition differences in depressive response using all outcome measures at item-, facet-, and factor-levels of analysis.

Method:

Four depression measures were compared on the basis of their validity for examining differences in depressive response between PT and ET conditions.

Results/Outcomes:

Possible reasons for discrepant findings on the QIDS-SR16 include its higher variance, imprecision due to compound items and whole-scale and unidimensional sum-scoring, vagueness in the phrasing of scoring options for items, and its lack of focus on a core depression factor. Reanalyzing the trial data at item-, facet-, and factor-levels yielded results suggestive of PT’s superior efficacy in reducing depressed mood, anhedonia, and a core depression factor, along with specific symptoms such as sexual dysfunction.

Conclusion/Interpretation:

Our results raise concerns about the adequacy of the QIDS-SR16 for measuring depression, as well as the practice of relying on individual scales that tend not to capture the multidimensional structure or core of depression. Using an alternative approach that captures depression more granularly and comprehensively yielded specific insight into areas where PT therapy may be particularly useful to patients and clinicians.
Experimentally Disentangling Donors’ Perceptions of Government-Supported Nonprofits: Cost-Efficiency, Program Impact, and Shared Services
Authors: Hung ChiaKo , Tian Yuan , Zhang Youlang
Published: April 2023

This study advances understanding of the relationship between government support and private donations, by further investigating the mechanisms underlying that relationship and by examining a nonmonetary form of government support, namely, shared services. We use a survey experimental design to highlight U.S. donors’ perceptions of government-supported nonprofits. The results suggest that donors are less willing to give to government-funded nonprofits. This is not only because donors see government funding as a substitute for their donations but also because donors perceive government-funded nonprofits as cost-inefficient. The results also suggest that donors’ relative reluctance to donate to government-funded nonprofits is not because donors perceive government-funded nonprofits as less impactful and that donors’ decisions about giving do not vary according to the forms of government support nonprofits receive. Overall, our findings stress the importance of governments simplifying administrative procedures for nonprofits to apply for and manage government funding.
SAMe-TT2R2 to Predict Clinical Outcomes and Time in Therapeutic Range in Patients on Vitamin K Antagonists: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Incomenoy Supatcha , Saokaew Surasak , Poonchuay Natnicha
Published: April 2023

Background:

The SAMe-TT2R2 score identifies patients on vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) who are more likely to have poor time in therapeutic range (TTR); however, the association between SAMe-TT2R2 and clinical outcomes remains controversial.

Objectives:

The objective is to assess the association of SAMe-TT2R2 score with clinical outcomes and poor TTR in patients on VKAs.

Methods:

We searched using the term “SAMe-TT2R2.” Original articles reporting clinical outcomes and SAMe-TT2R2 scores before October 2021 were included. Odds ratios (ORs) of clinical outcomes, diagnostic accuracy parameters of poor TTR (<60%-70%), and mean TTR were extracted. Meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models.

Results:

Ten studies were included (N = 22 894); 4 showed pooled changes in TTR of −3.61% (95% CI:−4.88% to −2.35%) and −3.98% (95% CI: −6.08% to −1.87%) at SAMe-TT2R2 scores ≥2 and ≥3, respectively, compared with lower scores. The diagnostic accuracy parameters for poor TTR were too heterogeneous to conclude. SAMe-TT2R2 ≥3 significantly correlated with all adverse events (OR = 1.43 [95% CI: 1.29-1.54; P < 0.001]), composite thromboembolism (OR = 1.53 [95% CI: 1.19-1.97; P = 0.001]), and composite bleeding (OR = 1.33 [95% CI: 1.12-1.59; P = 0.001] regardless of the indication, while an SAMe-TT2R2 ≥2 significantly correlated with mortality (OR = 1.32 [95% CI: 1.02-1.70; P = 0.033]). We found no relationship between an SAMe-TT2R2 ≥3 and mortality or between a score ≥2 and clinical outcomes.

Conclusions and Relevance:

Patients on VKAs with SAMe-TT2R2 ≥3 experienced more adverse events, bleeding, and thromboembolism compared with patients who had an SAMe-TT2R2 <3. However, the score had limited and inconclusive predictability for poor TTR in the study.
Evaluation of oncology infusion pharmacy practices: A nationwide survey
Authors: Boyd AM , Sue C , Khandoobhai A , Vinson B , Shaikh H , Sorenson S , Patel V , Snyder B , Bondarenka C , Koukounas Y , Earl M , Jenkins M
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Oncology care continues to evolve at a rapid pace including provision of infusion-based care. There is currently a lack of robust metrics around oncology infusion centers and pharmacy practice. The workgroup completed a nationwide survey to learn about oncology-based infusion pharmacy services offered. The objective was to highlight consistent, measureable oncology-based infusion pharmacy metrics that will provide a foundation to describe overall productivity including emphasis on high patient-safety standards.

Methods

A nationwide survey was developed via a workgroup within the Vizient Pharmacy Cancer Care Group beginning in April 2019 and conducted electronically via the Vizient Pharmacy Network from September to November 2020. The survey was designed to capture a number of key metrics related to oncology-based infusion pharmacy services.

Results

Forty-one sites responded to the survey. Responses highlighted hours of operation (median = 11.5), number of infusion chairs (median = 45). Staffing metrics included 7.1 pharmacist full-time equivalent (FTE) and 7.6 technician FTE per week. 80.5% of sites had cleanrooms and 95.1% reported both hazardous and nonhazardous compounding hoods. 68.3% of sites reported using intravenous (IV) technology, 50.0% measured turnaround time, and 31.4% prepared treatment medications in advance.

Conclusion

There was variability among oncology infusion pharmacy practices in regard to survey responses among sites. The survey results highlight the need for standardization of established productivity metrics across oncology infusion pharmacies in order to improve efficiency and contain costs in the changing oncology landscape. The survey provides insight into oncology infusion pharmacy practices nationwide and provides information for pharmacy leaders to help guide their practices.
Year in Review 2022: Noteworthy Literature in Cardiac Anesthesiology
Authors: Christensen Elijah , Morabito Joseph , Kowalsky Markus , Tsai John-Paul , Rooke Douglas , Clendenen Nathan
Published: April 2023

Last year researchers made substantial progress in work relevant to the practice of cardiac anesthesiology. We reviewed 389 articles published in 2022 focused on topics related to clinical practice to identify 16 that will impact the current and future practice of cardiac anesthesiology. We identified 4 broad themes including risk prediction, postoperative outcomes, clinical practice, and technological advances. These articles are representative of the best work in our field in 2022.
Shifting behavioral intervention research to virtual methods: Challenges and solutions in practice, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Steinhilber Kylie M , Chabria Reena S , Clara Amy , Temel Jennifer S , Greer Joseph A , Traeger Lara , Jacobs Jamie M
Published: April 2023

Behavioral medicine researchers have rapidly adapted study procedures and interventions to telehealth modalities during the pandemic. We rely heavily on telehealth research methods to avoid study delays and mitigate risk to chronically ill patients our studies aim to support. We implemented methods to virtually recruit, enroll, and retain patients and their families on clinical trials, and virtually deliver study interventions. These adaptations are likely to become permanent amid ongoing virus variants and surges in cases. However, little has been written about how remote methods apply in practice. This paper documents these processes to maximize efficiency across our research studies and systems and highlights the strengths and challenges of transitioning our research protocols to telehealth. We outline solutions to using remote methods across the entire span of the research process, including study recruitment, data collection, and intervention delivery. We offer insight into the implications of these transitions on research staff and interventionists. In providing a transparent review of the advantages and challenges of implementing remote methods, we encourage discourse around remote methods implementation, share the lessons we learned, and inform the design of future trials. Further research is needed to review the clinical feasibility and acceptability of these procedures.
Retain – an ATM Pilot Project for Applications in Health Care
Authors: Eichelberg M , Hewett A J , Jensch P
Published: April 2023

The availability of ATM-based broadband wide-area networks facilitates a range of new applications in health care, especially the performance of videoconferences combined with software for computer-supported cooperative discussion and diagnosis of digital medical images. This report about a research project for applications of the ‘European ATM pilot network’ in radiology describes the technical, economic and structural framework for the application of broadband technology in health care.
The Teleambulance
Authors: Adeyinka Michael
Published: April 2023

The teleambulance aims to facilitate adequate medical treatment by initiating and guaranteeing maximum preparation and immediate hospital handling of the patient either at the scene of an incident or during transportation. Following the problem definition and the identification of the medical fields the technology can address, field research was conducted to investigate the state of the art from the point of view of the prospective end user. This paper presents the development of the teleambulance workstation.
The Future Role of Telemedicine at the Interface between Primary and Secondary Care
Authors: Harrison R , Clayton W , Wallace P
Published: April 2023

Telemedicine has been in existence for 25 years. Owing to the primitive state of technological development and poor telecommunications, early projects could not be sustained. Recent improvements in technology and communications, together with a convergence of political and economic trends, has led to a massive surge in development. In the UK one promising application is to link GPs with hospital specialists. This offers the potential for improved quality of communication, more effective use of expensive resources, and more convenient delivery of medical services to the patient.
Digital journalism in Spain: Technological, sociopolitical and economic factors as drivers of media evolution
Authors: Salaverría Ramón , Martínez-Costa María-del-Pilar
Published: April 2023

Digital journalism has been a reality in Spain for nearly 30 years. In this time, the number of digital media outlets has steadily increased to become the most abundant type of media in the 2020s, ahead of print, radio and television. Based on a quantitative analysis of the authors’ own database of active digital media outlets ( n = 2726) and an examination of Spain’s technological, sociopolitical and economic development in recent decades, this article identifies several factors that have spurred the evolution of digital journalism in Spain. The study results show a correlation in the period from 1994 to 2020 between the percentage of Internet users and the number of active digital media outlets, which showed very similar progress. The study also detects a relationship between the country’s economic evolution and the expansion of digital media, albeit with a seemingly paradoxical effect: digital media, especially digital native media companies, proliferated even more when the economy was at its worst. The article highlights the subtle effects of political factors on the development of digital media in the period under study, although increasing political polarization has triggered additional transformation processes in recent years.
Thinking big – here comes the sun
Authors: Adams Julian Peter
Published: April 2023

In 2000, Pincott and Branthwaite published ‘Nothing New Under the Sun?’ which discussed the role of the internet in research both in terms of the hazards and opportunities this confers. Specifically, Pincott and Branthwaite argued that whilst the advent of the internet offers up new approaches and techniques, this must not be at the detriment of methodological rigour and standards we have grown accustomed to in the industry. In this paper, it is argued that the advent of big data, big qual and the emerging potential of the metaverse present new opportunities in research but pose the same questions originally conceived by Pincott & Branthwaite, 2000. Moreover, methodological rigour and standards are framed by three interconnected themes, namely, the role of data science and big data, the importance of softer skills of interpretation and narration and finally, the role of theory in elevating and grounding research.
Journey to Diagnosis of Young-Onset Dementia: A Qualitative Study of People with Young-Onset Dementia and their Family Caregivers in Australia
Authors: Lai Michelle , Jeon Yun-Hee , McKenzie Heather , Withall Adrienne
Published: April 2023

Objectives

This study aims to explore the journey to dementia diagnosis and reaction to the diagnosis from the perspective of people with young-onset dementia living in the community from diverse areas in Australia (metropolitan, regional, rural) and their family caregivers.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with community-dwelling people with early to moderate young-onset Alzheimer’s disease ( n = 8) or frontotemporal dementia ( n = 5) and one person with both Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia, and family caregivers of community-dwelling people with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease and/or frontotemporal dementia ( n = 28). This study employed interpretive description. Thematic analysis was conducted for emergent themes, comparisons and interplay between themes.

Findings

The journey to the diagnosis is characterised as involving an extensive period of the gradual worsening of symptoms, drawn out investigations, and difficulties facing the prospect of a diagnosis of young-onset dementia. Participants with young-onset dementia struggled to manage their symptoms and the process of seeking a diagnosis was often slow due to difficulties during the course of their medical investigations and feeling reluctance to face the possibility of having dementia. Once participants finally received the diagnosis of young-onset dementia, participants with young-onset dementia and their family caregivers experienced feelings of devastation and shock, in some cases denial and avoidance, and even, confirmation and relief at having received a diagnosis. In some instances, participants experienced more than one of these reactions. There was a profound realisation by participants that a diagnosis of young-onset dementia had serious implications on their life and future.

Conclusion

The journey to diagnosis was found to be a drawn-out process and receiving the diagnosis was a shock for both people with young-onset dementia and their family caregivers. The findings highlight the significance of the role healthcare professionals play in both the diagnostic and post-diagnostic journey, particularly in terms of supporting patients with young-onset dementia and their family caregivers.
A microRNA-related single nucleotide polymorphism of the Dicer gene is associated with risk of dermatomyositis
Authors: Peng Chenxing , Zhang Jingjing , Zhang Shasha , Zhang Xiaoyun , Zhao Yufei
Published: April 2023

To evaluate the correlation of miRNA-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (miR-SNPs) with the risk of dermatomyositis (DM) development.

MicroRNAs (MiRNAs) are involved in a variety of activities such as cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, tumorigenesis, and immunological response. MiR-SNPs alter the expression levels of miRNAs, leading to increased susceptibility to DM.

We genotyped six miR-SNPs for miRNA processing machinery genes, including XPO5 (rs11077), RAN (rs14035), Dicer (rs3742330), TNRC6B (rs9623117), GEMIN3 (rs197412), and GEMIN4 (rs2740348), and two miR-SNPs for microRNA binding site, including SET8 (rs16917496), and KRT81 (rs3660), in a case-control study to assess the impact of these miR-SNPs on DM risk. Then we assessed cytokine expression and ROS levels in DM to determine the relationship between risk-related miR-SNPs and cytokines.

We discovered that Dicer’s (rs3742330) AA genotype had a decreased chance of developing DM than the AG + GG type (odds ratio, 0.527; 95% confidence interval: 0.281–0.987; p = 0.045). The subsequent analysis showed that the AA genotype carrier had greater levels of IL-4 ( p = 0.034).

The SNP of Dicer (rs3742330) maybe an attractive predictor of DM, moreover the cytokine of IL-4 may act as the factor that distinguishes SNP of Dicer (rs3742330) into AA and AG + GG.
The power of history: How a victimization narrative shapes national identity and public opinion in China
Authors: Xu Yiqing , Zhao Jiannan
Published: April 2023

We study the effect of a victimization narrative on national identity and public opinion in China experimentally. Previous research has suggested that governments can shape public opinion by guiding citizens’ collective memories of historical events, but few studies have established a clear causal link. By conducting an online survey experiment among 1890 urban Chinese citizens, we examine the causal impact of historical narratives on political attitudes. We find that, compared to control conditions, a narrative focusing on China’s humiliating past in the late Qing significantly reinforces respondents’ attachment to the victim side of the Chinese national identity, raises suspicion of the intention of foreign governments in international disputes, stimulates preference for more hawkish foreign policies, and strengthens support for China’s current political system. These effects are particularly strong among respondents without a college degree.
An analysis of factors influencing the career success of Chinese women scientists
Authors: Wang Jingying
Published: April 2023

This study is based on a literature review of three aspects of gender inequality in the field of science and technology (S&T): women being disadvantaged in S&T education, visible gender segregation in S&T occupations, and women being disadvantaged in the development of S&T careers. It analyses gender barriers and problems in the development of S&T careers and uncovers the key factors contributing to the career success of contemporary Chinese women scientists through textual analysis of the success factors for women scientists in China.
Women in science: Rising numbers but an eternal glass ceiling
Authors: Entradas Marta
Published: April 2023

This paper provides an account of my perception as a woman doing science, and examines the general situation and evolution of women's participation in science in Portugal. I will start with a slightly broader perspective, emphasizing a few global trends in women's participation in science and alluding to one persistent obstacle: gender discrimination. These trends also define the Portuguese context. Despite significant progress in opening the door to women's participation in science, it remains challenging for women to pursue a viable career path in research and ascend the hierarchy. Beyond the glass ceiling, top positions are still reserved for a predominantly male old guard. Yet pioneering women have shown that changes can happen and have opened the door for us to collectively continue this important work—something that I am proud to be part of.
Relative Efficacy of Cervical Total Disc Arthroplasty Devices and Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion for Cervical Pathology: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zavras Athan G. , Federico Vincent P. , Butler Alexander J. , Nolte Michael T. , Dandu Navya , Phillips Frank M. , Colman Matthew W.
Published: April 2023

Study Design

Systematic Review and Meta Analysis

Objective

This study sought to compare patient-reported outcomes, success, complications, and radiographic outcomes directly and indirectly between different cervical total disc arthroplasty (TDA) devices and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

Methods

Patients of prospective randomized controlled trials of 1-level cervical TDA with a minimum of 2 years follow up were identified in the literature. A frequentist network meta-analysis model was used to compare each outcome across the different TDA devices included and ACDF using the mixed effect sizes.

Results

15 studies were included for quantitative analysis, reporting the outcomes of 2643 patients with an average follow-up was 67.3 months (range: 24-120 months), 1417 of whom underwent TDA and 1226 of whom underwent ACDF. Nine TDA devices were compared to ACDF, including the Bryan, Discover, Kineflex, M6, Mobi-C, PCM, Prestige ST, ProDisc-C, and Secure-C cervical prostheses. Several devices outperformed ACDF for certain outcomes, including Visual Analog Scale (VAS) Arm, Physical Component Score of the Short-Form Health Survey (SF PCS), neurological success, satisfaction, index-level secondary surgical interventions (SSI), and adjacent level surgeries. Cumulative ranking of each intervention assessed demonstrated the highest performance with the M6 prosthesis ( P = .70), followed by Secure-C ( P = .67), PCM ( P = .57), Prestige ST ( P = .57), ProDisc-C ( P = .54), Mobi-C ( P = .53), Bryan ( P = .49), Kineflex ( P = .49), Discover ( P = .39), and ACDF ( P = .14).

Conclusion

Cervical TDA was found to be superior on most outcomes assessed in the literature of high-quality clinical trials. While most devices demonstrated similar outcomes, certain prostheses such as the M6 were found to outperform others across several outcomes assessed. These findings suggest that the restoration of near-normal cervical kinematics may lead to improved outcomes.
Issues in Contemporary Drug Delivery
Authors: Chotidiloke Chadanapis , Elking Paulette , Banakar Umesh V.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To provide an overview of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the medications presently being used to treat the disease.

Data Sources

References have been selected from published articles, monographs, manufacturers’ product information, textbooks on therapeutics of rheumatic diseases, and specific computerized databases such as DRUGDEX.

Study Selection

Studies that establish the pharmacokinetics of the various drugs have been included, as have comparative studies of the various agents. Studies that gave specifics concerning the use of the various agents in the elderly were given priority in selection. Monographs from both United States Pharmacopeia Dispensing Information and American Hospital Formulary Service Drug Information ‘92 were used to ensure consistency in dosing and pharmacokinetic data.

Data Synthesis

A variety of medications are used to treat RA, and are classified according to their ability to alleviate the inflammatory process and symptomatology of the disease, or to actually slow down or halt the progression of the disease process itself. The long-established pyramidal approach to therapy is presently being challenged so as to employ the slow-acting or disease-modifying agents earlier in the process.

Conclusions

A wide variety of medications are presently available for treating RA. As the pathogenesis of the disease becomes better defined, it is hoped that less-toxic and more-specific and -effective therapies will become available. Medications remain the cornerstone of therapy; however, patient education, rest, and exercise are equally important.
Graphic Analysis of First-Order Rate Data
Authors: Hermann Joachim J.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To provide an in-depth discussion of five graphs used to analyze first-order rate data. Special emphasis is given to the use of semilogarithmic graph paper and semilogarithmic plots.

Data Sources

A theoretical set of time-concentration data was generated using the equation C=Co e-kt. Arbitrarily chosen values of 6.0 mg/L and 0.33 h-1 were used for Co and k, respectively.

Study Selection

First-order rate data were plotted for subsequent graphic analysis in five different ways: concentration (C) versus time (t) (on linear graph paper), ln C versus t (on linear graph paper), log C versus t (on linear graph paper), C versus t (on commercial semilogarithmic graph paper), and C versus t (on extemporaneously prepared semilogarithmic graph paper).

Data Synthesis

Methodology for estimation of the first-order rate constant, half-life, and initial concentration from each of the five different graphs is discussed. The strengths and weaknesses of each graphing technique are presented. Fundamental equations relevant to first-order kinetics are also reviewed. Familiarity with these equations is shown to be essential to the analysis of different graphs.

Conclusions

Each of the five plots used to analyze the first-order rate data offers advantages and disadvantages. The most expedient approach is the use of commercially available semilogirithmic graph paper.
CircRNF10-DHX15 interaction suppressed breast cancer progression by antagonizing DHX15-NF-κB p65 positive feedback loop
Authors: Zheng Wenfang , Wang Xuehui , Yu Yunhe , Ji Changle , Fang Lin
Published: April 2023

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is a common threat to women. The continuous activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway contributes to the development of BC. This study aimed to investigate the role of a circular RNA (circRNF10) in BC progression and regulating NF-κB signaling pathway.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis, RT-qPCR, subcellular fractionation, FISH, RNase R treatment, and actinomycin D assay were used to explore the expression and characteristics of circRNF10 in BC. The biological functions of circRNF10 in BC were analyzed by MTT assay, colony formation assay, wound healing assay, and Transwell assay. RNA pulldown and RIP assay were used to identify the interaction between circRNF10 and DEAH (Asp-Glu-Ala-His) box helicase 15 (DHX15). The impact of circRNF10-DHX15 interaction on NF-κB signaling pathway was explored by western blot, IF, and co-IP. Furthermore, dual-luciferase reporter assay, ChIP, and EMSA were performed to assess the effect of NF-κB p65 on DHX15 transcription.

Results

CircRNF10 was downregulated in BC, and lower expression of circRNF10 was related to poor prognosis of patients with BC. CircRNF10 inhibited the proliferation and migration of BC. Mechanically, circRNF10-DHX15 interaction sequestered DHX15 from NF-κB p65, thereby inhibiting the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. On the other hand, NF-κB p65 enhanced DHX15 transcription by binding to the promoter of DHX15. Altogether, circRNF10 impaired the DHX15-NF-κB p65 positive feedback loop and suppressed the progression of BC.

Conclusion

CircRNF10-DHX15 interaction suppressed the DHX15-NF-κB p65 positive feedback loop, thereby inhibiting BC progression. These findings provide new insights in the continuous activation of NF-κB signaling pathway and raised potential therapeutic approach for BC treatment.
DGH-GO: dissecting the genetic heterogeneity of complex diseases using gene ontology
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Martiniano Hugo F. M. C. , Lamurias Andre , Kausar Samina , Couto Francisco M.
Published: April 2023

Background

Complex diseases such as neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) exhibit multiple etiologies. The multi-etiological nature of complex-diseases emerges from distinct but functionally similar group of genes. Different diseases sharing genes of such groups show related clinical outcomes that further restrict our understanding of disease mechanisms, thus, limiting the applications of personalized medicine approaches to complex genetic disorders.

Results

Here, we present an interactive and user-friendly application, called DGH-GO. DGH-GO allows biologists to dissect the genetic heterogeneity of complex diseases by stratifying the putative disease-causing genes into clusters that may contribute to distinct disease outcome development. It can also be used to study the shared etiology of complex-diseases. DGH-GO creates a semantic similarity matrix for the input genes by using Gene Ontology (GO). The resultant matrix can be visualized in 2D plots using different dimension reduction methods (T-SNE, Principal component analysis, umap and Principal coordinate analysis). In the next step, clusters of functionally similar genes are identified from genes functional similarities assessed through GO. This is achieved by employing four different clustering methods (K-means, Hierarchical, Fuzzy and PAM). The user may change the clustering parameters and explore their effect on stratification immediately. DGH-GO was applied to genes disrupted by rare genetic variants in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) patients. The analysis confirmed the multi-etiological nature of ASD by identifying four clusters of genes that were enriched for distinct biological mechanisms and clinical outcome. In the second case study, the analysis of genes shared by different NDDs showed that genes causing multiple disorders tend to aggregate in similar clusters, indicating a possible shared etiology.

Conclusion

DGH-GO is a user-friendly application that allows biologists to study the multi-etiological nature of complex diseases by dissecting their genetic heterogeneity. In summary, functional similarities, dimension reduction and clustering methods, coupled with interactive visualization and control over analysis allows biologists to explore and analyze their datasets without requiring expert knowledge on these methods. The source code of proposed application is available at https://github.com/Muh-Asif/DGH-GO