bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A positive TGF‐β/miR‐9 regulatory loop promotes the expansion and activity of tumour‐initiating cells in breast cancer
Authors: Liu Yichen , Chen Ying , Zhao Qiong , Xie Tianyuan , Xiang Chenxi , Guo Qianqian , Zhang Wenzhou , Zhou Yi , Yuan Yin , Zhang Yuxin , Xi Tao , Li Xiaoman , Zheng Lufeng
Published: April 2023

Background and Purpose

MicroRNA‐9 (miR‐9) has previously been described as a dual‐functional RNA during breast cancer progression and its roles need to be clarified thoroughly.

Experimental Approach

A miR‐9 knockout mode of mouse breast cancer, the MMTV‐PyMT model (PyMT‐miR‐9−/−), combined with different human breast cancer cell lines were used to evaluate the effects of miR‐9 on breast cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. Lin‐NECs (Neoplastic mammary epithelial cells) and pNECs (Pre‐neoplastic mammary epithelial cells) were isolated and subjected to tumour‐initiation assay. Whole‐mount staining of mammary gland and histology was performed to determine mammary gland growth. Tumour‐initiating analysis combining a series of in vitro experiments were carried out to evaluate miR‐9 roles in tumour‐initiating ability. RNA‐sequencing of human breast cancer cells, and mammary glands at hyperplastic stages and established tumours in PyMT and PyMT‐miR‐9−/− mice, ChIP and luciferase report assays were conducted to reveal the underlying mechanisms.

Key Results

MiR‐9 is ectopically expressed in breast cancer and its level is negatively correlated with the prognosis, especially in basal‐like breast cancer patients. Additionally, miR‐9 is essential for breast cancer progression by promoting the expansion and activity of tumour‐initiating cells (TICs) in preneoplastic glands, established tumours and xenograft modes. Mechanistically, the activity of TICs hinges on a positive TGF‐β/miR‐9 regulatory loop mediated by the STARD13/YAP axis.

Conclusions and Implications

These findings demonstrate that miR‐9 is an oncogenic miRNA rather than a tumour‐suppressor in breast cancer, calling for rectification of the model for this conserved and highly abundant miRNA.
Tube‐in‐tube endoscopic vacuum therapy for treatment of colorectal anastomotic leaks: A low‐cost, patient‐friendly, feasible and efficient technical modification of sponge‐based endoscopic vacuum therapy
Authors: de Lima Marcelo Simas , Figueiredo Lucas Zouain , Furuya Carlos Kiyoshi , Pombo Amanda Aquino de Miranda , Hora Jose Americo Bacchi , Malluf‐Filho Fauze
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

Colorectal endoscopic vacuum therapy (CR EVT) is usually performed using sponges passed through the anus. It may be associated with patient discomfort and displacement of the aspiration tube.

Methods

With the tube‐in‐tube endoscopic vacuum therapy modification (CR TT‐EVT), it is possible to position the aspiration tube in the pelvic cavity through the abdominal wall. In addition, it allows frequent cleaning of the fistula, eliminates the need for programmed device changes, and enables a standardized approach to such a wide variety of fistulas, leaks, and perforations.

Results

Here is a technical note on how to perform CR TT‐EVT, while we are at the early phase of our case series we have reached 100% of technical success.
Extreme learning machine algorithm‐based model for lung cancer classification from histopathological real‐time images
Authors: Grace John M. , Baskar S.
Published: April 2023

In the present scenario, developing an automatic and credible diagnostic system to analyze lung cancer type, stage, and level from computed tomography (C.T.) images is a very challenging task, even for experienced pathologists, due to the nonuniform illumination and artifacts. The nonuniform illumination and artifacts are the low‐frequency changes in image intensity that arise from the sensor and the person's movement while recording the C.T. scanned images. Although numerous machine learning techniques are used to improve the effectiveness of automatic lung cancer diagnostic systems, the classification accuracy of these systems still needs significant improvement to satisfy the real‐time requirement of the diagnostic situations. A new extreme learning machine (ELM) algorithm‐based model (hereafter called XlmNet) is proposed to classify the histopathology scans effectively. XlmNet utilizes The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) dataset. After data collection, the initial stage in XlmNet is preprocessing, including noise removal, histogram equalization, and quality‐improved image. The enhanced Profuse Clustering (EPC) method is implemented for segmenting the affected regions from C.T. scans by image segment using superpixel clustering. The statistical attributes are extracted by using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). ELM classifier helps in classifying the lung nodules. The empirical results of the XlmNet model are related to some advanced classifiers concerning performance metrics. The evaluations of XlmNet on the TCIA dataset reveal that XlmNet outperforms other classification networks with the Accuracy of 0.965, a sensitivity of 0.964, a specificity of 0.865, a precision of 0.962, a Jaccard similarity score (JSS) of 0.95.
Motor performance and attention outcomes in children born very preterm
Authors: Brown Rebecca N. , Burnett Alice C. , Thompson Deanne K. , Spittle Alicia J. , Ellis Rachel , Cheong Jeanie L. Y. , Doyle Lex W. , Pascoe Leona , Anderson Peter J.
Published: April 2023

Aim

To examine the relationship between motor performance and attention in children born very preterm and at term, and investigate the presence of individual profiles of motor and attention performance.

Method

Attention and motor performance at 7 and 13 years were assessed in 197 children born very preterm (52.5% male) and 69 children born at term (47.8% male) between 2001 and 2003. Linear regression models were fitted including an interaction term for birth group. Subgroups of children with similar attention and motor performance profiles were identified using latent profile analysis.

Results

Balance was positively associated with all attention outcomes at both ages (p < 0.006). There were specific birth group interactions for aiming and catching and manual dexterity with attention at 13 years, with positive associations observed only for children born very preterm (p < 0.001). At 7 years, three profiles were observed: average attention and motor functioning; average motor functioning and low attention functioning; and low attention and motor functioning. At 13 years, two profiles of average attention and motor functioning emerged, as well as one profile of below‐average attention and motor functioning. Children born very preterm were overrepresented in the lower functioning profiles (born very preterm 56%; born at term 29%).

Interpretation

Motor functioning at age 7 years may be a useful marker of later attention skills, particularly for children born very preterm who are at greater risk of poorer long‐term cognitive outcomes.

What this paper adds

Balance was positively associated with attention in children born very preterm and at term.

Relationships between motor performance and attention at age 13 years differed between children born very preterm and at term.

Heterogeneous motor functioning and attention outcomes were noted for children born very preterm and at term.

Children born very preterm were more likely to have lower attention and motor functioning profiles than children born at term.

There was greater movement in motor functioning and attention profiles between the ages of 7 and 13 years in children born very preterm.
FENS‐Kavli Network of Excellence: Bridging levels and model systems in neuroscience: Challenges and solutions
Authors: Livneh Yoav
Published: April 2023

“But what's the mechanism? And what's the behavioral relevance?” These very common questions reflect that obvious fact that neural systems can be described at multiple levels. They further reflect the fact that many neuroscientists view the achievement of such multilevel descriptions as an important accomplishment. Neuroscientists have achieved a remarkable level of understanding at each different level, yet comprehensive descriptions that bridge across multiple levels remain a substantial challenge in neuroscience. Many of us may take the importance and the considerable difficulty of this endeavour for granted and, therefore, expect that it will be somehow solved in the future as we make more progress. In contrast, I argue here that concerted action is needed to address this outstanding challenge. I discuss the need to bridge different levels and model systems in neuroscience. I briefly review key concepts from philosophy of science that can create a conceptual framework to do so. Finally, I suggest concrete “bottom‐up” and “top‐down” steps the neuroscience community can take to make progress in this direction. I hope these suggestions will serve an initial basis for further fruitful discussions that will advance us towards achieving this important goal.
Functional diversity can facilitate the collapse of an undesirable ecosystem state
Authors: Limberger Romana , Daugaard Uriah , Gupta Anubhav , Krug Rainer M. , Lemmen Kimberley D. , van Moorsel Sofia J. , Suleiman Marcel , Zuppinger‐Dingley Debra , Petchey Owen L.
Published: April 2023

Biodiversity may increase ecosystem resilience. However, we have limited understanding if this holds true for ecosystems that respond to gradual environmental change with abrupt shifts to an alternative state. We used a mathematical model of anoxic–oxic regime shifts and explored how trait diversity in three groups of bacteria influences resilience. We found that trait diversity did not always increase resilience: greater diversity in two of the groups increased but in one group decreased resilience of their preferred ecosystem state. We also found that simultaneous trait diversity in multiple groups often led to reduced or erased diversity effects. Overall, our results suggest that higher diversity can increase resilience but can also promote collapse when diversity occurs in a functional group that negatively influences the state it occurs in. We propose this mechanism as a potential management approach to facilitate the recovery of a desired ecosystem state.
Lending quality and contracts enforcement reforms
Authors: D'Apice Vincenzo , Fiordelisi Franco , Puopolo Giovanni W.
Published: April 2023

We investigate the causal relationship between the efficiency of country's judicial system and the quality of bank lending, using the contracts enforcement reforms implemented in four European countries as a quasi‐natural experiment. We find that strengthening contracts enforcement determines large, significant and persistent reductions in banks' nonperforming loans. Our results have important policy implications: they point at judicial efficiency as a critical determinant of the stability of the banking sector and its resilience to adverse shocks such as the recent Covid‐19 pandemic.
Upregulation of A‐type potassium channels suppresses neuronal excitability in hypoxic neonatal mice
Authors: Ni Kun , Liu Hanwei , Lai Ke , Shen Li , Li Xiaoyan , Wang Jiping , Shi Haibo
Published: April 2023

Neuronal excitability is a critical feature of central nervous system development, playing a fundamental role in the functional maturation of brain regions, including the hippocampus, cerebellum, auditory and visual systems. The present study aimed to determine the mechanism by which hypoxia causes brain dysfunction through perturbation of neuronal excitability in a hypoxic neonatal mouse model. Functional brain development was assessed in humans using the Gesell Development Diagnosis Scale. In mice, gene transcription was evaluated via mRNA sequencing and quantitative PCR; furthermore, patch clamp recordings assessed potassium currents. Clinical observations revealed disrupted functional brain development in 6‐ and 18‐month‐old hypoxic neonates, and those born with normal hearing screening unexpectedly exhibited impaired central auditory function at 3 months. In model mice, CA1 pyramidal neurons exhibited reduced spontaneous activity, largely induced by excitatory synaptic input suppression, despite the elevated membrane excitability of hypoxic neurons compared to that of control neurons. In hypoxic neurons, Kcnd3 gene transcription was upregulated, confirming upregulated hippocampal Kv4.3 expression. A‐type potassium currents were enhanced, and Kv4.3 participated in blocking excitatory presynaptic inputs. Elevated Kv4.3 activity in pyramidal neurons under hypoxic conditions inhibited excitatory presynaptic inputs and further decreased neuronal excitability, disrupting functional brain development in hypoxic neonates.
Tree biodiversity of warm drylands is likely to decline in a drier world
Authors: Cartereau Manuel , Leriche Agathe , Médail Frédéric , Baumel Alex
Published: April 2023

Warm drylands represent 19% of land surfaces worldwide and host ca. 1100 tree species. The risk of decline due to climate aridification of this neglected biodiversity has been overlooked despite its ecological and societal importance. To fill this gap, we assessed the risk of decline due to climate aridification of tree species in warm drylands based on spatialized occurrence data and climate models. We considered both species vulnerability and exposure, compared the risk of tree species decline across five bioregions and searched for phylogenetic correlates. Depending on the future climate model, from 44% to 88% of warm drylands' tree species will undergo climate aridification with a high risk of decline even under the most optimistic conditions. On a regional scale, the rate of species that will undergo climate aridification in the future varies from 21% in the Old World North, to 90% in Australia, with a risk of decline confirming the high level of risk predicted at the global scale. Using generalized linear mixed models, we found that, species more exposed to climate aridification will be more at risk, but also that species vulnerability is a key driver of their risk of decline. Indeed, the warm drylands specialist species will be less at risk due to climate aridification than species being marginal in warm drylands. We also found that the risk of decline is widespread across the main clades of the phylogeny and involves several evolutionary distinct species. Estimating a high risk of decline for numerous tree species in all warm drylands, including emblematic dryland endemics, our work warns that future increase in aridity could result in an extensive erosion of tree biodiversity in these ecosystems.
Breaking the plaster: Making do with the fragility of the body
Authors: Mandalaki Emmanouela
Published: April 2023

Drawing on a personal experience with temporary impairment following a foot bone fracture, I here reflect on forms of marginalization fragile bodies face under normative social and organizational structures. Combining reflexive narratives, poetry, art‐making, diary notes and open questions I ask myself and the reader, with feminist literature insights inspiring my thinking and writing, I seek to problematize taken for granted assumptions around usability and accessibility of objects and spaces in society and organizations. I discuss learnings I derived from this experience, developing their relevance for broader social, academic and political debates. Namely, I argue for the importance of rethinking embodied fragility as agility from which ableist environments might learn new practices. I also discuss slowness as well as engagement with embodied research methods, feminist reading and writing as redemptive getaways for making sense of embodied trauma in ways that resist social and epistemic norms that augment inequalities.
Incidence of hospital admissions in bioimpedance‐guided fluid management among maintenance hemodialysis patients—Results of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Stigger Kaiane , Ribeiro Larissa Ribas , Cordeiro Fernanda Moraez , Böhlke Maristela
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Hemodialysis is life‐sustaining in kidney failure. However, proper regulation of body fluids depends on an accurate estimate of target weight. This trial aims to compare clinical endpoints between target weight estimation guided by bioimpedance spectroscopy and usual care in hemodialysis patients.

Methods

This is an open‐label, parallel‐group, controlled trial that randomized, through a table of random numbers, adult patients on maintenance hemodialysis to target weight estimation based on monthly clinical evaluation alone or added to evaluation by bioimpedance twice a year. The primary outcome was survival, and the secondary outcomes were the rate of hospital admissions, change in blood pressure (BP), and antihypertensive drugs load. Participants were followed for 2 years. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan–Meier estimator and Log‐rank test, and hospital admissions were analyzed by the incidence‐rate ratio.

Findings

One hundred and ten patients were randomized to the usual care (52) or bioimpedance (58) groups, with a mean age of 57.4 (15.4) years, 64 (58%) males. There was no difference between the groups at baseline. Survival was not significantly different between groups (log‐rank test p = 0.68), but the trial was underpowered for this outcome. There was also no difference between the groups in the change in systolic or diastolic BP or in the number of antihypertensive drugs being used. The incidence rate of hospital admissions was 3.1 and 2.1 per person‐year in usual care and bioimpedance groups, respectively, with a time‐adjusted incidence rate ratio of 1.48 (95% CI: 1.20–1.82, p = 0.0001) and attributable fraction of risk among exposed individuals of 0.32 (95% CI: 0.17–0.45).

Discussion

The inclusion of bioimpedance data to guide the estimation of target weight in hemodialysis patients had no detectable impact on survival or BP control, but significantly reduced the incidence rate of hospital admissions.

The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05272800.
Characteristic geoepidemiology of primary biliary cholangitis in Taiwan: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Cheng Jur‐Shan , Chen Wei‐Ting , Ku Hsin‐Ping , Chien Rong‐Nan , Chang Ming‐Ling
Published: April 2023

Aim

Data on the geoepidemiology and outcomes of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in Asia are limited; thus, we aimed to collect and assess this information for Taiwan.

Methods

A nationwide population‐based cohort study was undertaken using data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Primary biliary cholangitis was defined by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code 571.6 based on alkaline phosphatase and antimitochondrial antibody measurements and ursodeoxycholic acid treatment.

Results

During 2002–2015, 2737 patients (2137 female patients; mean age, 57.78 years) had PBC. The average annual age‐ and sex‐adjusted prevalence and incidence rates of PBC were 8.092/105 and 1.148/105, respectively. Prevalent cases peaked in patients aged 50–59 years; the female‐to‐male ratio was 4.21. Annual prevalence rates increased with time (average percentage change, 12.03%; p < 0.0001). The annual incidence rates decreased with time (−7.39%; p = 0.000011) in female patients (−8.94%; p = 0.000003) but remained steady in male patients. Female‐to‐male and northern‐to‐southern relative risks of PBC incidence rates ranged from 2.2675 to 4.3318 and from 1.5707 to 3.1725, respectively. The 14‐year hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cumulative incidence was 9.11%, and the mortality rate was 32.44%; the cumulative incidences of dyslipidemia, thyroid disease, and extrahepatic cancers were 65.13%, 24.40%, and 12.79%, respectively. Higher cumulative incidences of HCC (p = 0.0064) and mortality (p < 0.0001) were noted in male than female PBC patients; southern Taiwan PBC patients had higher cumulative incidences of mortality (p < 0.0001) than their northern counterparts.

Conclusion

In Taiwan, decreasing trends in incidence rates and the female‐to‐male ratio of PBC patients and specific sex and geographic impacts on the incidence rates and outcomes of PBC demand further investigation.
Using social media listening to understand barriers to genomic medicine for those living with Ehlers–Danlos syndromes and hypermobility spectrum disorders
Authors: Kline Erika , Garrett Amanda Leigh , Brownstein Catherine , Ziniel Sonja , Payton Erica , Goldin Aleah , Hoffman Kathleen , Chandler Judy , Weber Shani
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Technological improvements alone have not led to the integration of genomic medicine across a broad range of diseases and populations. For genomic medicine to be successfully implemented across specialties and conditions, the challenges patients and caregivers experience need to be identified using a multi‐faceted understanding of the context in which these obstacles occur and how they are experienced. Individuals affected by rare conditions, like Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), express numerous challenges with accessing genomic medicine. Many patients living with rare diseases seek information and find comfort in online health communities.

Methods

Social media conversations facilitated through online health communities are windows into patients' and caregivers' authentic experiences. To date, no other study has examined genomic medicine barriers by analysing the content of social media posts, yet the novel methodological approach of social media listening permits the analysis of virtual, organic conversations about lived experiences.

Results/Conclusions

Using a modified social–ecological model, this study found that social–structural and interpersonal barriers most frequently impede access to genomic medicine for patients and caregivers living with EDS and HSD.

Patient or Public Contribution

Data were retrieved through social media conversations facilitated through publicly accessible health communities through Inspire, an online health community. Social media listening permits the analysis of virtual, organic conversations about lived experiences.
Response to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic of dental hygienists in South Korea—Part III: COVID‐19 vaccination intentions
Authors: Kim Han‐Na , Kim Jin‐Hee , Min Ji‐Hyun
Published: April 2023

Objectives

This cross‐sectional study was to determine the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccination intention of clinical dental hygienists in South Korea and the factors that influence vaccination intention.

Methods

COVID‐19 vaccination intention of the 500 participants was confirmed through a survey including the following options: ‘I will vaccinate (VAC)’, ‘I will not vaccinate (NoVAC)’ and ‘I do not know if I should get vaccinated (UNK)’. A Chi‐square test was performed to determine whether there were differences in COVID‐19 vaccination intention according to the general characteristics of the participants, degree of infection control knowledge (Score‐K) and practice (Score‐P) in response to COVID‐19, fears over COVID‐19 (Fear‐C) and the level of anxiety before (GADBefore) and after (GADAfter) the COVID‐19 pandemic. Multiple logistic regression was performed to identify factors affecting VAC and NoVAC by setting the base category as UNK. The p‐values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

According to the analysis, 44.8%, 18.8% and 36.4% of participants selected VAC, NoVAC and UNK respectively. There were significant differences in vaccination intention according to age, monthly income, residential area, symptoms related to COVID‐19, Score‐K, Fear‐C and GADBefore. Compared to UNK, < $2000 monthly income, Score‐K and Fear‐C variables significantly influenced the opinion of VAC. Compared to the answer UNK, monthly incomes of $2000 to $2360 and $2360 to $2730 in residential areas significantly influenced the opinion of NoVAC.

Conclusions

The variables influencing vaccination intention were monthly income, residential area, Score‐K and Fear‐C.
Improving oral health of adolescent girls in Kenya through education – An observational study
Authors: de Paiva Buischi Yvonne , de Campos Kajimoto Natália , Funari Sergio Luis , Kimathi Mwongera , Loomer Peter Michael
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Dental caries and periodontal diseases are significant health concerns in developing nations. This study assessed the impact of a comprehensive oral health education program on adolescent girls in rural Kenya.

Methods

Eighty‐seven girls aged 13–18 years attending school in rural Nanyuki, Kenya, were enrolled in the study. The comprehensive program included personalized oral hygiene training, education and health advocacy coaching. Dental caries, gingival inflammation and dental plaque biofilm were assessed at baseline, 1‐ and 2.5‐year post‐implementation.

Results

The intervention was highly effective in arresting pre‐existing carious lesions and preventing the formation of new ones in this population. The data revealed that there was a significant remineralization of incipient caries lesion, as shown by decreases in modified ICCMS™ scores from baseline to 1‐year post‐implementation. From baseline to the 2.5‐year post‐implementation assessment, only six new carious lesions developed. Dental plaque biofilm was reduced by 83.6%, and gingival inflammation was reduced by 81.6%.

Conclusion

A comprehensive oral health program, which included behavioural awareness and educational approaches, resulted in significant positive oral health outcomes in caries, dental plaque biofilm and gingival inflammation.
The employer perspective on wage law non‐compliance: State of the field and a framework for new understanding
Authors: Clibborn Stephen , Hanna‐Osborne Sally
Published: April 2023

This article offers the first systematic review of empirical research addressing the question of why employers underpay their employees, from the perspective of employers themselves – a perspective largely missing from scholarly examination of wage law non‐compliance. We conducted a comprehensive search of the vast peer‐reviewed literature on the topic, identifying studies which collected and analyzed primary data from employers regarding why they breached wage laws. A review of these studies identified four broad types of explanation offered by employers relating to financial viability, perceived consequences of non‐compliance, ethical and normative rationalization, and the role of external actors. We propose a research agenda and theoretical framework based on the key empirical, methodological and theoretical gaps which remain in understanding why employers underpay their employees, and discuss how this agenda can inform policy interventions designed to ameliorate the problem.
Spatial and temporal changes in biophysical skin parameters over a category I pressure ulcer
Authors: Abiakam Nkemjika S. , Jayabal Hemalatha , Filingeri Davide , Bader Dan L. , Worsley Peter R.
Published: April 2023

In acute care facilities, the detection of pressure ulcers (PUs) relies on visual and manual examination of the patient's skin, which has been reported to be inconsistent and may lead to misdiagnosis. In skin and wound research, various biophysical parameters have been extensively employed to monitor changes in skin health. Nonetheless, the transition of these measures into care settings as part of a routine clinical assessment has been limited. This study was designed to examine the spatial and temporal changes in skin biophysical parameters over the site of a category I PU, in a cohort of hospitalised patients. Thirty patients, each presenting with a category I PU, were enrolled in the study. Skin integrity was assessed at the PU‐compromised site and two adjacent areas (5 and 10 cm away). Data was collected over three sessions to examine both temporal differences and longitudinal changes. Skin integrity was assessed using two biophysical parameters, namely, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum (SC) hydration. In addition, the influence of intrinsic factors, namely, incontinence and mobility status, on the parameters was evaluated. TEWL values at the sites compromised by PU were statistically significantly greater (P < .001) than corresponding values at the adjacent control sites at 5 and 10 cm, which were consistent with a normative range (<20 g/h/m2). By contrast, SC hydration values did not reveal clear distinctions between the three sites, with high inter‐patient variation detected at the sites. Nevertheless, individual profiles were consistent across the three sessions, and the PU site was observed to be either abnormally dry or overhydrated in different individuals. No consistent temporal trend in either parameter was evident. However, intrinsic factors were shown to influence the parameters, with females, bedridden and incontinent patients presenting significantly higher TEWL and SC hydration values (P < .05). TEWL was able to identify differences in skin responses at skin sites compromised with a category I PU when compared to healthy adjacent skin sites. Accordingly, this parameter could be included in the clinical assessment for the identification of PU risk. Further studies are required to elucidate the role of hydration and skin barrier function in the development of PUs and their ability to monitor temporal changes in skin integrity.
Validation and application of the 2019 International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot risk stratification for diabetic foot in Chinese patients
Authors: Hu Xiling , Zhang Yao , Chen Yanming , Zhang Yin‐Ping
Published: April 2023

Aims/Introduction

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the validation and application of the 2019 International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) risk stratification system among Chinese patients with diabetes.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective cohort study was carried out with 254 patients with diabetes, but without an active diabetic foot (DF) ulcer. Patients hospitalized from January to May 2017 were enrolled, and the follow‐up period was from January to May 2020. Patients were stratified into four risk groups based on the 2019 IWGDF risk stratification system.

Results

Of the 254 patients, four of 31 patients at risk 1 were diagnosed with DF within 3 years, whereas 12 of 26 patients at risk 2 and 16 of 20 patients at risk 3 developed DF. The area under the curve was 0.919 (P < 0.01, 95% confidence interval 0.893–0.945). Because DF risk 2 and greater (risk 2 + risk 3) was the optimal cut‐off point, we simplified the risk stratification system by using two tiers, namely, low risk (risk 0 + 1) and high risk (risk 2 + 3). For the simplified risk stratification system, the sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, percent agreement, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 87.5%, 91.8%, 10.607, 91.3%, 60.8% and 98.1%, respectively. The χ2‐test showed that the odds ratio of the high‐risk group (risk 2 + 3) was 29.33‐fold that of the low‐risk group (risk 0 + 1).

Conclusions

The 2019 IWGDF risk stratification system showed high validity and primary screening value in Chinese patients with diabetes. Thus, a simplified, two‐tiered IWGDF stratification might be more efficient and cost‐effective for predicting DF ulcers.
The challenge of implementing environmental DNA metabarcoding to detect elasmobranchs in a resource‐limited marine protected area
Authors: Merten Cruz Marcelo , Sauvage Thomas , Chariton Anthony , de Freitas Thales Renato Ochotorena
Published: April 2023

Elasmobranchs are threatened and eDNA metabarcoding is a powerful tool that can help efforts to better understand and conserve them. Nevertheless, the inter‐calibration between optimal methodological practices and its implementation in resource‐limited situations is still an issue. Based on promising results from recent studies, the authors applied a cost‐effective protocol with parameters that could be easily replicated by any conservationist. Nonetheless, the results with fewer elasmobranchs detected than expected reveal that endorsed primers and sampling strategies still require further optimization, especially for applications in resource‐limited conservation programmes.
Preparation of phosphorus‐doped cow milk‐derived carbon quantum dots and detection of Au3+
Authors: Zhang Lei , Li Bo , Zhou Yue , Wu Yan , Sun Qi , Le Tao
Published: April 2023

A new fluorescent probe based on phosphorus‐doped cow milk‐derived carbon quantum dots (P‐CMCQDs) for the detection of Au3+ was studied in water samples. P‐CMCQDs were prepared by hydrothermal method with cow milk as carbon source and phosphoric acid as dopant. P‐CMCQDs show green fluorescence under ultraviolet light and can be partially quenched by Au3+. However, the excellent fluorescence characteristics of P‐CMCQDs‐ascorbic acid (AA) were obtained and can be used to detect trace Au3+ by simply mixing the P‐CMCQDs with AA. The sensing mechanism is based on the reduction of Au3+ to AuNPs by P‐CMCQDs and AA, and then AuNPs induce the fluorescence quenching of P‐CMCQDs through synergistic static quenching and internal filtering effect. The fluorescence intensity of P‐CMCQDs‐AA varies with the concentration of Au3+ (10–140 μmol/L), the detection limit is 4.2 nmol/L, indicating that the P‐CMCQDS‐AA probe has excellent sensitivity. In the detection of Au3+ in tap water and lake water, it is found that the recovery is between 99.6% and 100.5%, and the relative standard deviation is between 1.7% and 3.2%. This method is fast, efficient, and sensitive, and can be used to detect Au3+ in actual water samples.

Practical Applications

Although the element gold is chemically inert, soluble gold salts remaining in the environment in the form of ions are toxic and serious damage the peripheral nervous system, causing other health issues. Therefore, it seems necessary to design an efficient and sensitive method to detect Au3+ in environment. Among many detection methods, fluorescence sensing method is more suitable for on‐site, rapid detection. However, the complex system, high limit of detection and environmental pollution caused by metal luminescence limit its application. In this paper, the biomass P‐CMCQDs was synthesized from cow milk by hydrothermal method. By adding AA in the synthesized P‐CMCQDs, the limit of detection (LOD) was greatly improved, and the trace Au3+ detection in tap water and lake water was highly selective and sensitive.
The effectiveness of dance movement therapy for individuals with Down syndrome: a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Takahashi H. , An M. , Sasai T. , Seki M. , Matsumura T. , Ogawa Y. , Matsushima K. , Tabata A. , Kato T.
Published: April 2023

Background

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) exhibit deficits in static and dynamic balance abilities and maladaptive functions. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of dance movement therapy (DMT) group intervention in individuals with DS.

Methods

The 31 participating individuals with DS, aged 5–29 years, were randomly divided into intervention (n = 16) and control (n = 15) groups. Posturography was used for static balance measurement, timed up and go test for dynamic balance measurement and the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA) questionnaire for adaptive function and behavioural problem measurement in participants before and after the DMT interventions. The intervention group underwent 60‐min DMT intervention once a week for 10 times, while the control group had usual daily activities.

Results

The results revealed a statistically significant difference and large effect sizes in dynamic balance [(f(1, 29) = 4.52, P = 0.04, ηp 2 = 0.14)] in the intervention group compared with the control group. There were no statistically significant differences in static balance and ASEBA scores between the groups.

Conclusions

This study found that the DMT interventions helped to improve the dynamic balance in individuals with DS.
Effects of a smartphone app‐based diet and physical activity program for men living with HIV who have dyslipidemia: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Aomori Maki , Matsumoto Chiharu , Takebayashi Sanae , Matsuyama Nao , Uto Yukiko , Tanaka Miho , Samukawa Sei , Kato Hideaki , Nakajima Hideaki , Maeda Hitomi
Published: April 2023

Aims

People living with HIV are at a high risk for cardiovascular disease owing to antiretroviral therapy use and chronic inflammation. There is limited evidence on the evaluation of serum lipid levels through lifestyle modification. This study aims to evaluate the effect of a smartphone application‐based diet and exercise improvement program on men living with HIV and dyslipidemia.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial recruiting Japanese men living with HIV who have dyslipidemia: intervention group (n = 19) and control group (n = 19). The intervention group received a third individual guidance session during the 6‐month intervention and was encouraged to record their diet on a smartphone application. An intention‐to‐treat analysis of the results was conducted.

Results

The intervention group showed significantly reduced change in low‐density lipoprotein levels compared to the control group (−4.00 ± 20.2 mg/dL vs. 10.11 ± 21.1 mg/dL) (p = .042) from baseline to 6 months post‐intervention. No significant differences were found in other serum lipid levels. Abdominal circumference decreased significantly in the intervention group (p = .048) from baseline to 6 months post‐intervention. Total energy, protein, carbohydrate, fat, and salt intake, dietary and physical activity behavior change stages and social support, dietary self‐efficacy, and loneliness significantly improved in the intervention group (p < .05) from baseline to 6 months post‐intervention.

Conclusions

A diet and physical activity improvement program using a smartphone application based on Japanese‐specific health guidance may reduce low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in this population. Further sample expansion and examination of long‐term effects are needed.
Archean ultrahigh temperature event in the northwestern Superior Province, Canada: Metamorphic evolution and tectonic implications of the Pikwitonei Granulite Domain
Authors: Yin Changqing , Wang Xiaoman , Lin Shoufa , Couëslan Chris G. , Böhm Christian O. , Qian Jiahui , Zhang Jian , Xia Yanfei , Li Wenxuan
Published: April 2023

The Pikwitonei Granulite Domain (PGD), located in the northwestern Superior Province, is one of the largest Neoarchean high‐grade metamorphic domains in the world, and is a key to understanding the Neoarchean crustal evolution of the Superior Province. Here we report results of a study on ultrahigh temperature (UHT) granulites with a sapphirine + quartz‐bearing peak assemblage from the Sipiwesk Lake area in the PGD. Three stages of metamorphic assemblage development are recognized based on petrographic observations: Pre‐peak stage is marked by garnet, sillimanite, K‐feldspar, and biotite inclusions within sapphirine and orthopyroxene. Peak stage is charactered by the typical UHT associations of sapphirine + quartz and sapphirine + orthopyroxene. The retrograde stage is represented by the retrograde formation of cordierite, biotite and sillimanite in the matrix. Phase equilibrium modelling based on the bulk compositions of sapphirine‐bearing granulites suggest that the rocks have experienced extensional UHT metamorphism in excess of 1035°C at pressures of 7.9–9.0 kbar, followed by isobaric cooling process. SHRIMP U–Pb dating of metamorphic zircons in sapphirine‐bearing granulite record the timing of the UHT event in the PGD with a weighted mean 207Pb/206Pb age of 2681 ± 13 Ma. This study in combination with other metamorphic P–T paths and age information reveals that this UHT metamorphism at 2.68 Ga in PGD was generated by upwelling asthenosphere due to slab break‐off in collision during the amalgamation of the Superior Province.
Structural and proteomic repercussions of growth hormone receptor deficiency on the pituitary gland: Lessons from a translational pig model
Authors: Shashikadze Bachuki , Franzmeier Sophie , Hofmann Isabel , Kraetzl Martin , Flenkenthaler Florian , Blutke Andreas , Fröhlich Thomas , Wolf Eckhard , Hinrichs Arne
Published: April 2023

Growth hormone receptor deficiency (GHRD) results in low serum insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and high, but non‐functional serum growth hormone (GH) levels in human Laron syndrome (LS) patients and animal models. This study investigated the quantitative histomorphological and molecular alterations associated with GHRD. Pituitary glands from 6 months old growth hormone receptor deficient (GHR‐KO) and control pigs were analyzed using a quantitative histomorphological approach in paraffin (9 GHR‐KO [5 males, 4 females] vs. 11 controls [5 males, 6 females]), ultrathin sections tissue sections (3 male GHR‐KO vs. 3 male controls) and label‐free proteomics (4 GHR‐KO vs. 4 control pigs [2 per sex]). GHR‐KO pigs displayed reduced body weights (60% reduction in comparison to controls; p < .0001) and decreased pituitary volumes (54% reduction in comparison to controls; p < .0001). The volume proportion of the adenohypophysis did not differ in GHR‐KO and control pituitaries (65% vs. 71%; p = .0506) and GHR‐KO adenohypophyses displayed a reduced absolute volume but an unaltered volume density of somatotrophs in comparison to controls (21% vs. 18%; p = .3164). In GHR‐KO pigs, somatotroph cells displayed a significantly reduced volume density of granules (23.5%) as compared to controls (67.7%; p < .0001). Holistic proteome analysis of adenohypophysis samples identified 4660 proteins, of which 592 were differentially abundant between the GHR‐KO and control groups. In GHR‐KO samples, the abundance of somatotropin precursor was decreased, whereas increased abundances of proteins involved in protein production, transport and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress were revealed. Increased protein production and secretion as well as significantly reduced proportion of GH‐storing granules in somatotroph cells of the adenohypophysis without an increase in volume density of somatotroph cells in the adenohypophysis could explain elevated serum GH levels in GHR‐KO pigs.
Elevated estradiol during a hormone simulated pseudopregnancy decreases sleep and increases hypothalamic activation in female Syrian hamsters
Authors: Irvine Abiola , Gaffney Maeve I. , Haughee Erin K. , Horton Marité A. , Morris Hailey C. , Harris Kagan C. , Corbin Jaclyn E. , Merrill Clara , Perlis Michael L. , Been Laura E.
Published: April 2023

Sleep disruptions are a common occurrence during the peripartum period. While physical and environmental factors associated with pregnancy and newborn care account for some sleep disruptions, there is evidence that peripartum fluctuations in estrogens may independently impact sleep. However, the impact of these large fluctuations in estrogens on peripartum sleep is unclear because it is difficult to tease apart the effects of estrogens on sleep from effects associated with the growth and development of the fetus or parental care. We therefore used a hormone‐simulated pseudopregnancy (HSP) in female Syrian hamsters to test the hypothesis that pregnancy‐like increases in estradiol decrease sleep in the absence of other factors. Adult female Syrian hamsters were ovariectomized and given daily hormone injections that simulate estradiol levels during early pregnancy, late pregnancy, and the postpartum period. Home cage video recordings were captured at seven timepoints and videos were analyzed for actigraphy. During “late pregnancy,” total sleep time and sleep efficiency were decreased in hormone‐treated animals during the white light period compared to pretest levels. Likewise, during “late pregnancy,” locomotion was increased in the white light period for hormone‐treated animals compared to pretest levels. These changes continued into the “postpartum period” for animals who continued to receive estradiol treatment, but not for animals who were withdrawn from estradiol. At the conclusion of the experiment, animals were euthanized and cFos expression was quantified in the ventral lateral preoptic area (VLPO) and lateral hypothalamus (LH). Animals who continued to receive high levels of estradiol during the “postpartum” period had significantly more cFos in the VLPO and LH than animals who were withdrawn from hormones or vehicle controls. Together, these data suggest that increased levels of estradiol during pregnancy are associated with sleep suppression, which may be mediated by increased activation of hypothalamic nuclei.
Palaeohistology reveals an unusual periodontium and tooth implantation in a filter‐feeding pterodactyloid pterosaur, Pterodaustro guinazui, from the Lower Cretaceous of Argentina
Authors: Cerda Ignacio A. , Codorniú Laura
Published: April 2023

Pterosaurs are an extinct group of Mesozoic flying reptiles, which exhibited high diversity with regard to their dentition. Although morphological features of pterosaur dentition have been described in detail in several contributions, the histology of tooth and tooth attachment tissues (i.e. periodontium) has been scarcely analysed to date for this clade. Here we describe and interpret the microstructure of the tooth and periodontium attachment tissues of Pterodaustro guinazui, a filter‐feeding pterodactyloid pterosaur from the Lower Cretaceous of Argentina. The histological analysis of the lower jaw and its filamentous teeth verifies that the geometry of the implantation corresponds to an aulacodont condition (i.e. teeth are set in a groove with no interdental separation). This pattern departs from that recorded in other archosaurs, being possibly also present in other, non‐closely related, pterosaurs. Regarding tooth attachment, in contrast to other pterosaurs, there is no direct evidence for gomphosis in Pterodaustro (i.e. the absence of cementum, mineralized periodontal ligamentum and alveolar bone). Nevertheless, the current evidence for ankylosis is still not conclusive. Contrary to that reported for other archosaurs, replacement teeth are absent in Pterodaustro, which is interpreted as evidence for monophyodonty or diphyodonty in this taxon. Most of the microstructural features are possibly related to the complex filter‐feeding apparatus of Pterodaustro and does not appear to represent the general pattern of pterosaurs.
N‐terminal brain natriuretic peptide, cardiactroponin‐I, and point‐of‐care ultrasound in dogs with cardiac and noncardiac causes of nonhemorrhagic ascites
Authors: Morey Alice G. N. , Lamb Kenneth E. , Karnia James J. , Wiggen Kelly E. , Lyons Bridget M. , Nafe Laura A. , Leach Stacey B.
Published: April 2023

Background

Nonhemorrhagic ascites (NHA) can be caused by cardiac diseases (cNHA) and noncardiac diseases (ncNHA). N‐terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), cardiac troponin‐I (cTnI), and point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) may differentiate between cNHA and ncNHA.

Hypothesis/Objectives

We compared NT‐proBNP and cTnI concentrations as well as POCUS findings in dogs presented with cNHA and ncNHA.

Animals

Dogs (n = 60) were enrolled based on identification of NHA with an effusion packed cell volume < 10%.

Methods

Blood samples were collected and POCUS was performed on all dogs. Dogs were diagnosed with cNHA (n = 28) or ncNHA (n = 32) based on echocardiography. The cNHA group was subdivided into cardiac non‐pericardial disease (n = 17) and pericardial disease (n = 11).

Results

The NT‐proBNP concentration (median; range pmol/L) was significantly higher in the cNHA group (4510; 250‐10 000) compared to the ncNHA group (739.5; 250‐10 000;P = .01), with a sensitivity of 53.8% and specificity of 85.7% using a cut‐off of 4092 pmol/L. The NT‐proBNP concentrations were significantly higher in the cardiac non‐pericardial disease group (8339; 282‐10 000) compared with the pericardial disease group (692.5; 250‐4928;P = .002). A significant difference in cTnI concentration (median; range ng/L) between the cNHA group (300; 23‐112 612) and ncNHA group (181; 17‐37 549) was not detected (P = .41). A significantly higher number of dogs had hepatic venous and caudal vena cava distension in the cNHA group compared to the ncNHA group, respectively (18/28 vs 3/29,P < .0001 and 13/27 vs 2/29,P < .001). Gall bladder wall edema was not significantly different between groups (4/28 vs 3/29,P = .74).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

NT‐proBNP concentration and POCUS help distinguish between cNHA and ncNHA.