bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Organizational Culture on Employee Performance with Job Satisfaction Mediation Study at the State Treasury Service Office (KPPN) Scope of the East Java Region
Authors: Alfianto Daniel , Nadhor Rifqi Ahmaddzun
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of organizational culture on job satisfaction, with employee performance as a mediator. The study is quantitative in nature and employs hypothesis testing using data collected from respondents and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). A saturated sample is used as the sampling technique. The research sample comprises 112 individuals who are employees within the scope of the State Treasury Service Office (KPPN) in East Java. Smart PLS software version 3.0 was used for data processing. The research findings suggest that organizational culture has a positive and significant impact on job satisfaction. Additionally, job satisfaction acts as a mediator and has a positive and significant effect on employee performance. Furthermore, organizational culture has a positive and significant effect on employee performance.
Knowledge Management in The Digital Era in Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Agustina Ika , Kurniawati Desi Tri
Published: July 2024

Higher education institutions as educated human beings play a role in the development of science through the tridharma of higher education. Despite the great potential offered by digital technology, there are several issues that must be addressed before the technology can be effectively utilised to disseminate knowledge. These issues include gaining access to adequate technological infrastructure, adequate digital skills among the academic community, as well as creating policies that support the safe and ethical use and management of digital information. Digitalisation has provided many benefits for knowledge management. However, there is one thing that is a challenge for all sectors not only for educational institutions in the digital era, namely, data security and authenticity. The challenges that arise require appropriate solutions so that appropriate strategies are needed to answer these challenges. It is critical for higher education institutions to take a proactive and sustainable approach to utilising digital technology capabilities.
Children's Memory for Events: The Challenge of Free Recall
Authors: Benear Susan L. , Onwukanjo Obinnaya J. , Olson Ingrid R. , Newcombe Nora S.
Published: July 2024

Early childhood is a critical period for episodic memory development, with sharp behavioral improvements between ages 4 to 7 years. Prior work has demonstrated this extensively with prompted memory tasks, but we explored performance on unprompted, free recall of a naturalistic experience in children, and how their performance relates to other cognitive measures. We asked children and adults to view a television episode, a naturalistic task for which there exists a ground truth, and assessed their free recall memory for the episode. Children's free recall performance improved dramatically with age, with many young children producing no verbal free recall whatsoever, although prompted recognition memory measures showed retention of material. However, the detail in free recall was related to both recognition and temporal order forced-choice memory performance in our full sample, showing agreement among memory measures. Free recall was strongly predicted by verbal skills, suggesting that children's sparse recall reflects verbal skill development rather than a pure mnemonic deficit. We propose that free recall has a more protracted developmental trajectory because it requires more substantial verbal skills as well as metacognitive skills that direct memory search, as compared with forced-choice memory tasks.
Parental Beliefs as a Factor in the Cognitive and Socio-Emotional Development of the Child
Authors: Rudnova Natalia A. , Kornienko Dmitry S. , Gavrilova Margarita N. , Shvedchikova Yulia S.
Published: July 2024

Background. Modern psychology of parenting offers various phenomena for study, including parental relations, parental attitudes, and parenting practices. The study of parental attitudes enables us to describe the cognitive aspect of the family environment in which the child develops. Previous studies have found a significant association between parental attitudes and the cognitive and socio-emotional development of children. However, their results are ambiguous and require further clarification. Objectives. The aim of this study is to analyze the connection between parental attitudes regarding the necessity of structuring the environment or supporting the child's spontaneous activity, and the indicators of the child's cognitive and socio-emotional development. In addition, the study examines the presence of confrontation between parents regarding the characteristics of upbringing and fostering. Study Participants. The main sample of the study consisted of 338 people, specifically parents of preschool children, aged from 23 to 65 years (M = 36.63, SD = 5.004), and their children aged from 53 to 81 months (M = 70.36, SD = 4.198). Methods. We developed three groups of statements to identify parental attitudes: 1) statements about the organization of the child's life; 2) statements about the role of play activities; 3) statements about confrontational attitudes within the family. Indicators of children's cognitive development were identified using J. Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices and subtests of the NEPSY-II method. Social-emotional features were identified with the "Test for Understanding Emotions". Results. Most parents consider a structured environment to be more important for the well-being of their child. In addition, research has shown that attitudes towards the positive impact of a structured environment are a strong predictor of a child's nonverbal intelligence. Similarly, attitudes towards the importance of spontaneous activity are predictors of auditory-verbal memory and the ability to switch tasks efficiently. Parental attitudes did not show any associations with the socio-emotional development of children. Conclusions. Parental attitudes play a significant role in child development. The belief in the need to structure the child's environment may have positive effects on the child's cognitive development. However, it does not affect social-emotional development. On the other hand, the belief in the need for spontaneous activity is more likely to be associated with lower levels of executive functioning in the child.
Synotis carnosifolia (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Authors: JIN ZI-CHAO , SONG ZHU-QIU , GUO YONG-JIE , CHEN YOU-SHENG
Published: July 2024

Synotis carnosifolia (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a new species from Baoshan in western Yunnan province, China, is described and illustrated. By its habit S. carnosifolia is most closely similar to S. cavaleriei and S. changiana. It differs from S. cavaleriei in its petioles 1–3 cm long, leaf blade elliptical, orbicular or obovate and carnose. It can readily be distinguished from the latter by its leaf blade elliptical, orbicular or obovate, 4–7 × 2–6 cm, carnose in texture, abaxially arachnoid or subglabrous, adaxially glabrous, and blades base rounded. The taxonomic position of the new species within Synotis is also corroborated by evidence from phylogenetic analyses based on ITS and ETS sequence data.
Typification of the Iberian endemic Juniper Juniperus navicularis Gand. (Cupressaceae)
Authors: FERREIRA CATARINA , JIMÉNEZ CARLOS , SERRANO MIGUEL , VIEIRA CRISTIANA , VILA-VIÇOSA CARLOS
Published: July 2024

The typification of the name Juniperus navicularis (Cupressaceae) is provided, based on a thorough literature review and examination of original herbarium material deposited in the Gandoger collection (LY). In addition to discussing the historical background of the name and various assignments by different authors, we further studied additional types from Portuguese collections (LISU, COI, and PO) and other historical herbaria (H and P), cited in the species protologue.
Coleophora elea Baldizzone & Huemer, new species of the Coleophora oriolella Zeller, 1849 species-group (Lepidoptera, Coleophoridae)
Authors: BALDIZZONE GIORGIO , HUEMER PETER
Published: July 2024

Coleophora elea Baldizzone & Huemer, sp. nov., is described based on specimens collected from the Peloponnese peninsula (Greece). This species is closely related to C. oriolella Zeller, 1849, but it differs in external appearance and in characters of the male and female genitalia. Additionally, the two species are genetically distinct as evidenced by a p-distance of approximately 4% between their DNA barcodes (cytochrome c-oxidase subunit 1). Adult specimens and the genitalia of both species are illustrated for comparative purposes.
A new species of the genus Paraxantia Liu & Kang, 2009—the first record from Hainan Island, China (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae)
Authors: WU CHAO , LIU CHUN-XIANG
Published: July 2024

A new species: Paraxantia jianyuni sp. nov., is described based on six specimens collected in Hainan Island, China, representing the first record of this genus for this large island in southern China. Necessary illustrations and life image of the new species are presented, the distribution of the new species is discussed and mapped.
“Confessions of a Silencer”: Criticism and Subversion in Contemporary Jordanian Literature
Authors: Gottesfeld Dorit , Hamad Rami Abu
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the subversion in contemporary literary writing in Jordan . It uses the works of three prominent Jordanian writers, Jamāl Nājī, Ayman al-ʿAtūm, and Muʾnis al-Razzāz, as case studies to explore how these authors critique Jordanian society and politics. The paper highlights the various forms of criticism within their works and the methods used for their presentation. It demonstrates how these writers, through their literary works, not only reflect the multifaceted aspects of Jordan’s reality but also offer a voice of protest, seeking to establish an alternative reality in contrast to the existing one.
“It Made Me Feel Like a Person Again”: Benefits of Meals on Wheels-Based Social Connection Programs
Authors: Gadbois Emily A. , Brazier Joan F. , Turner Jeffrey , Hawes Courtney , Florence L. Carter , Belazis Laura
Published: July 2024

Social isolation and loneliness are associated with negative health outcomes, and these outcomes are exacerbated among older adults who are homebound. To address this issue, Meals on Wheels programs increasingly provide social connection services to clients in addition to home-delivered meals. This descriptive qualitative study examines the impact of three types of social connection programs on the well-being of homebound older adult clients, as well as on the volunteers and staff members who deliver the programs. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with 117 clients, volunteers, and staff in six Meals on Wheels social connection programs across the United States indicated that program participation was associated with substantial benefits. Benefits included the development of supportive friendships, reduced feelings of loneliness, and an improved overall sense of well-being. Insights from this study may inform the development, expansion, and sustainability of social connection programs provided by community-based organizations.
The challenges of implementing digital learning platforms in the ministry of information and digitalization in Malawi
Authors: Thomas Tisope Kamuzunguzeni Zgambo , Jo Sungbae
Published: July 2024

This study explores the implementation challenges and opportunities of digital learning platforms within Malawi’s Ministry of Information and Digitalization. Despite the high motivation among ministry personnel and the potential of these platforms to enhance professional development, significant barriers such as internet connectivity, technological access, and insufficient support hinder their effective utilization. Through a mixed-methods approach, the study reveals a moderate positive correlation between support availability and perceived effectiveness, emphasizing the need for robust support systems and relevant content. Recommendations for addressing these challenges include infrastructure development, policy initiatives, and continuous evaluation to improve digital learning effectiveness. This study contributes to understanding the complexities of digital education in Malawi, offering insights for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders involved in digital learning initiatives.
Neutrophil extracellular traps are associated with airways inflammation and increased severity of lung disease in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Law Sheonagh M. , Hardisty Gareth , Gillan Jonathan L. , Robinson Nicola J. , Davidson Donald J. , Whyte Moira K.B. , Dransfield Ian , Gray Robert D.
Published: July 2024

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is characterised by inflammatory lung disease and large numbers of airways neutrophils. In health, neutrophils undergo apoptosis and removal from the airway. Since CF neutrophils are known to engage in apoptosis less efficiently, we wanted to assess whether alternative forms of neutrophil clearance such as NETosis were prominent in the CF airway.

Methods

Sputum and blood were collected from 45 CF and 15 healthy control (HC) participants. Neutrophil morphology and biochemical properties were assessed in CF and HC sputum. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) were measured by a novel histone-calprotectin ELISA. NET levels were compared with established measurements of airway inflammation. CF participants were followed up for 1 year and the number of exacerbations recorded. Neutrophil and macrophage co-culture experiments were undertaken with cells from CF and HC.

Results

Neutrophil numbers were significantly higher in CF and associated with abnormal morphology. Several inflammatory mediators were elevated in CF sputum, as was cell-free DNA. This was highly correlated with sputum calprotectin, a known NET-associated protein. Using a histone-calprotectin NET ELISA, we demonstrated higher levels of NETs in the CF airway. CF participants treated with DNase had fewer sputum NETs, and in neutrophil/macrophage co-culture experiments, DNase effectively attenuated the pro-inflammatory potential of NETs, suggesting a previously unrecognised anti-inflammatory role for this treatment.

Conclusions

NETs in the CF airway are associated with increased levels of inflammatory mediators and more severe lung disease. NET effects on macrophages can be blocked by DNase, suggesting an anti-inflammatory role for this treatment in CF.
FnR: R package for computing inbreeding and numerator relationship coefficients
Authors: Nilforooshan Mohammad Ali
Published: July 2024

Background

Inbreeding and relationship coefficients are essential for conservation and breeding programs. Whether dealing with a small conserved population or a large commercial population, monitoring the inbreeding rate and designing mating plans that minimize the inbreeding rate and maximize the effective population size is important. Free, open-source, and efficient software may greatly contribute to conservation and breeding programs and help students and researchers. Efficient methods exist for calculating inbreeding coefficients. Therefore, an efficient way of calculating the numerator relationship coefficients is via the inbreeding coefficients. i.e., the relationship coefficient between parents is twice the inbreeding coefficient of their progeny. A dummy progeny is introduced where no progeny exists for a pair of individuals. Calculating inbreeding coefficients is very fast, and finding whether a pair of individuals has a progeny and picking one from multiple progenies is computationally more demanding. Therefore, the R package introduces a dummy progeny for any pair of individuals whose relationship coefficient is of interest, whether they have a progeny or not.

Results

Runtime and peak memory usage were benchmarked for calculating relationship coefficients between two sets of 250 and 800 animals (200,000 dummy progenies) from a pedigree of 2,721,252 animals. The program performed efficiently (200,000 relationship coefficients, which involved calculating 2,721,252 + 200,000 inbreeding coefficients) within 3:45 (mm:ss). Providing the inbreeding coefficients (for real animals), the runtime was reduced to 1:08. Furthermore, providing the diagonal elements of D in $$\textbf{A} = \textbf{TDT}^{\prime }$$

A
=

TDT
′

(d), the runtime was reduced to 54s. All the analyses were performed on a machine with a total memory size of 1 GB.

Conclusions

The R package FnR is free and open-source software with implications in conservation and breeding programs. It proved to be time and memory efficient for large populations and many dummy progenies. Calculation of inbreeding coefficients can be resumed for new animals in the pedigree. Thus, saving the latest inbreeding coefficient estimates is recommended. Calculation of d coefficients (from scratch) was very fast, and there was limited value in storing those for future use.
Sorbate metal complexes as newer antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anticancer compounds
Authors: Abousaty Amira I. , Reda Fifi M. , Hassanin Wessam A. , Felifel Walaa M. , El-Shwiniy Walaa H. , Selim Heba M. R. M. , Bendary Mahmoud M.
Published: July 2024

Background

The ineffectiveness of treatments for infections caused by biofilm-producing pathogens and human carcinoma presents considerable challenges for global public health organizations. To tackle this issue, our study focused on exploring the potential of synthesizing new complexes of Co(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) with sorbic acid to enhance its antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anticancer properties.

Methods

Four novel complexes were synthesized as solid phases by reacting sorbic acid with Co(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II). These complexes were characterized by various technique, including infrared spectra, UV–Visible spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and thermal analysis techniques, including thermogravimetry (TG).

Results

The data acquired from all investigated chemical characterization methods confirmed the chemical structure of the sorbate metal complexes. These complexes exhibited antibacterial and antibiofilm properties against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, these complexes enhanced the antibacterial effects of commonly used antibiotics, such as gentamicin and imipenem, with fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) indices ≤ 0.5. Notably, the Cu(II) complex displayed the most potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activities, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 312.5 µg/mL and 625.0 µg/mL for Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli, respectively. Additionally, in vitro assays using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) method showed inhibitory effects on the growth of the human colon carcinoma cell line (HCT-116 cells) following treatment with the investigated metal complexes. The IC50 values for Co(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Ni(II) were 3230 µg/mL, 2110 µg/mL, 3730 µg/mL, and 2240 µg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

Our findings offer potential for pharmaceutical companies to explore the development of novel combinations involving traditional antibiotics or anticancer drugs with sorbate copper complex.
Comparison of anesthesia methods for intra-arterial therapy of patients with acute ischemic stroke: an updated meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Chen Huijun , Xing Yang , Lang Zekun , Zhang Lei , Liao Mao , He Ximin
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Currently, there remains debate regarding the optimal anesthesia approach for patients undergoing intra-arterial therapy for acute ischemic stroke. Therefore, we conducted a comparative analysis to assess the effects of general anesthesia versus non general anesthesia on patient outcomes.

Methods

The research methodology entailed comprehensive searches of prominent databases such as the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, covering the period from January 1, 2010, to March 1, 2024. Data synthesis employed techniques like risk ratio or standardized mean difference, along with 95% confidence intervals. The study protocol was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024523079).

Results

A total of 27 trials and 12,875 patients were included in this study. The findings indicated that opting for non-general anesthesia significantly decreased the risk of in-hospital mortality (RR, 1.98; 95% CI: 1.50 to 2.61; p<0.00001; I2 = 20%), as well as mortality within three months post-procedure (RR, 1.24; 95% CI: 1.15 to 1.34; p<0.00001; I2 = 26%), while also leading to a shorter hospitalization duration (SMD, 0.24; 95% CI: 0.15 to 0.33; p<0.00001; I2 = 44%).

Conclusion

Ischemic stroke patients who undergo intra-arterial treatment without general anesthesia have a lower risk of postoperative adverse events and less short-term neurological damage. In routine and non-emergency situations, non-general anesthetic options may be more suitable for intra-arterial treatment, offering greater benefits to patients. In addition to this, the neuroprotective effects of anesthetic drugs should be considered more preoperatively and postoperatively.
Identifying the obstacles facing emergency nurses regarding treating CTAS1 and CTAS2 in Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlZahrani Rawan , Al Thobaity Abdulellah , Saleh Manal Saleh Moustafa
Published: July 2024

Background

Emergency nurses play a pivotal role in delivering efficient emergency healthcare, yet they often encounter numerous challenges, especially while managing life-threatening cases, impacting both their well-being and patient satisfaction. This study seeks to identify the prevalent challenges faced by these nurses in Saudi hospitals when handling Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS1 and CTAS2) cases, with the aim of mitigating or managing these issues in the future.

Methods

This study incorporated a mixed-method approach to identify obstacles in Emergency Department (ED) nursing treatment of CTAS1 and CTAS2 cases in two major Saudi Arabian hospitals. The research began with qualitative focus group interviews with expert ED nurses, followed by a quantitative survey to measure and explore relationships among the qualitative findings. Data analysis leveraged qualitative thematic analysis and principal component analysis, ensuring rigorous examination and validation of data to drive meaningful conclusions.

Findings

From expert interviews, key challenges for emergency nurses were identified, including resource management, communication, training compliance, and psychological factors. A survey of 172 nurses further distilled these into five major issues: patient care management, handling critical cases, administration support, patient care delay, and stress from patients’ families.

Conclusion

Through a mixed-method approach, this study pinpoints five pivotal challenges confronting emergency nurses in Saudi hospitals. These encompass difficulties in patient care management, the psychological toll of handling critical cases, inadequate administrative support, delays due to extended patient stays, and the stress induced by the presence of patients’ families, all of which significantly impede emergency department efficiency and compromise nurse well-being.
Accuracy, thoroughness, and quality of outpatient primary care documentation in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Authors: Weiner Michael , Flanagan Mindy E. , Ernst Katie , Cottingham Ann H. , Rattray Nicholas A. , Franks Zamal , Savoy April W. , Lee Joy L. , Frankel Richard M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Electronic health records (EHRs) can accelerate documentation and may enhance details of notes, or complicate documentation and introduce errors. Comprehensive assessment of documentation quality requires comparing documentation to what transpires during the clinical encounter itself. We assessed outpatient primary care notes and corresponding recorded encounters to determine accuracy, thoroughness, and several additional key measures of documentation quality.

Methods

Patients and primary care clinicians across five midwestern primary care clinics of the US Department of Veterans Affairs were recruited into a prospective observational study. Clinical encounters were video-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Using the Physician Documentation Quality Instrument (PDQI-9) added to other measures, reviewers scored quality of the documentation by comparing transcripts to corresponding encounter notes. PDQI-9 items were scored from 1 to 5, with higher scores indicating higher quality.

Results

Encounters (N = 49) among 11 clinicians were analyzed. Most issues that patients initiated in discussion were omitted from notes, and nearly half of notes referred to information or observations that could not be verified. Four notes lacked concluding assessments and plans; nine lacked information about when patients should return. Except for thoroughness, PDQI-9 items that were assessed achieved quality scores exceeding 4 of 5 points.

Conclusions

Among outpatient primary care electronic records examined, most issues that patients initiated in discussion were absent from notes, and nearly half of notes referred to information or observations absent from transcripts. EHRs may contribute to certain kinds of errors. Approaches to improving documentation should consider the roles of the EHR, patient, and clinician together.
The associations between dysregulation of human blood metabolites and lung cancer risk: evidence from genetic data
Authors: Wu Gujie , Liu Jun , Shi Haochun , Pan Binyang , Li Min , Wang Xiaolin , Li Yao , Cheng Lin , Guo Weigang , Huang Yiwei
Published: July 2024

Background

Metabolic dysregulation is recognized as a significant hallmark of cancer progression. Although numerous studies have linked specific metabolic pathways to cancer incidence, the causal relationship between blood metabolites and lung cancer risk remains unclear.

Methods

Genomic data from 29,266 lung cancer patients and 56,450 control individuals from the Transdisciplinary Research in Cancer of the Lung and the International Lung Cancer Consortium (TRICL-ILCCO) were utilized, and findings were replicated using additional data from the FinnGen consortium. The analysis focused on the associations between 486 blood metabolites and the susceptibility to overall lung cancer and its three major clinical subtypes. Various Mendelian randomization methods, including inverse-variance weighting, weighted median estimation, and MR-Egger regression, were employed to ensure the robustness of our findings.

Results

A total of 19 blood metabolites were identified with significant associations with lung cancer risk. Specifically, oleate (OR per SD = 2.56, 95% CI: 1.51 to 4.36), 1-arachidonoylglyceropholine (OR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.22 to 2.65), and arachidonate (OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.16 to 2.40) were associated with a higher risk of lung cancer. Conversely, 1-linoleoylglycerophosphoethanolamine (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.40 to 0.82), ADpSGEGDFXAEGGGVR, a fibrinogen cleavage peptide (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.47 to 0.77), and isovalerylcarnitine (OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.49 to 0.78) were associated with a lower risk of lung cancer. Notably, isoleucine (OR = 9.64, 95% CI: 2.55 to 36.38) was associated with a significantly higher risk of lung squamous cell cancer, while acetyl phosphate (OR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.89) was associated with a significantly lower risk of small cell lung cancer.

Conclusion

This study reveals the complex relationships between specific blood metabolites and lung cancer risk, highlighting their potential as biomarkers for lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. The findings not only deepen our understanding of the metabolic mechanisms of lung cancer but also provide new insights for future treatment strategies.
Metformin induces ZFP36 by mTORC1 inhibition in cervical cancer-derived cell lines
Authors: De la Cruz-López Karen Griselda , Alvarado-Ortiz Eduardo , Valencia-González Heriberto A. , Beltrán-Anaya Fredy Omar , Zamora-Fuentes José María , Hidalgo-Miranda Alfredo , Ortiz-Sánchez Elizabeth , Espinal-Enríquez Jesús , García-Carrancá Alejandro
Published: July 2024

Background

Metformin, a widely prescribed antidiabetic drug, has shown several promising effects for cancer treatment. These effects have been shown to be mediated by dual modulation of the AMPK-mTORC1 axis, where AMPK acts upstream of mTORC1 to decrease its activity. Nevertheless, alternative pathways have been recently discovered suggesting that metformin can act through of different targets regulation.

Methods

We performed a transcriptome screening analysis using HeLa xenograft tumors generated in NOD-SCID mice treated with or without metformin to examine genes regulated by metformin. Western Blot analysis, Immunohistochemical staining, and RT-qPCR were used to confirm alterations in gene expression. The TNMplot and GEPIA2 platform were used for in silico analysis of genes found up-regulated by metformin, in cervical cancer patients. We performed an AMPK knock-down using AMPK-targeted siRNAs and mTOR inhibition with rapamycin to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of metformin in cervical cancer cell lines.

Results

We shown that metformin decreases tumor growth and increased the expression of a group of antitumoral genes involved in DNA-binding transcription activator activity, hormonal response, and Dcp1-Dcp2 mRNA-decapping complex. We demonstrated that ZFP36 could act as a new molecular target increased by metformin. mTORC1 inhibition using rapamycin induces ZFP36 expression, which could suggest that metformin increases ZFP36 expression and requires mTORC1 inhibition for such effect. Surprisingly, in HeLa cells AMPK inhibition did not affect ZFP36 expression, suggesting that additional signal transducers related to suppressing mTORC1 activity, could be involved.

Conclusions

These results highlight the importance of ZFP36 activation in response to metformin treatment involving mTORC1 inhibition.

Graphical Abstract
Long noncoding RNA KCNMA1-AS2 regulates the function of colorectal cancer cells and sponges miR-1227-5p
Authors: Miao Xinzhi , Wang Fang , Yunus Muhammad Amir , Ismail Ida Shazrina , Wang Tianyun
Published: July 2024

Background

Many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with altered expression significantly influence colorectal cancer (CRC) progression and behavior. The functions of many lncRNAs in CRC are not clear yet. This study aimed to discover novel lncRNA entities and comprehensively examine and validate their roles and underlying molecular mechanisms in CRC.

Methods

Tissue samples, both tumourous and non-tumourous, from three CRC patients were submitted for sequencing. Following expression validation in samples from ten patients and four CRC cell lines. The lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 was synthesized by In-vitro transcription RNA synthesis and the lncRNA was directly transfected into CRC cell lines to overexpress. Functional assays including MTT proliferation assay, Annexin-V/propidium iodide apoptosis assay, wound healing migration assay and cell cycle assays were performed to evaluate the effect of overexpression of KCNMA1-AS2. Furthermore, the binding of KCNMA1-AS2 to miR-1227-5p was confirmed using dual luciferase reporter assays and qPCR analyses. Subsequent bioinformatics analyses identified 58 potential downstream targets of miR-1227-5p across three databases.

Results

In this study, we identified the lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2, the expression of which was down-regulated consistently in cancer tissues and CRC cell lines compared to non-cancerous tissues. The overexpression of lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 led to significant reduction in CRC cell proliferation and migration, increase in cell apoptosis, and more cells arrested in S phase. Additionally, the interaction between KCNMA1-AS2 and miR-1227-5p was confirmed through dual luciferase reporter assay and qPCR analysis. It is also putatively predicted that MTHFR and ST8SIA2 may be linked to CRC based on bioinformatics analyses.

Conclusions

LncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 exhibited distinct gene expression patterns in both CRC tissue and cell lines, impacting various cellular functions while also acting as a sponge for miR-1227-5p.The findings spotlight lncRNA KCNMA1-AS2 as a potential marker for diagnosis and treatment of CRC.
Clinical analysis of 37 Chinese patients with ocular amyloidosis: a single center study
Authors: Li Jing , Liu Rui , Ren Tingting , Wang Nan , Guo Qihan , Xu Liangyuan , Ma Jianmin
Published: July 2024

Objective

To examine the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment, and prognosis of ocular amyloidosis in a Chinese population.

Methods

A retrospective case series study was conducted. The clinical data of 37 patients with ocular amyloidosis were collected and the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment, and prognosis were summarized and analyzed.

Results

The 37 patients included 12 males and 25 females ranging in age from 22 to 75 years, with median age of 49 years. The clinical signs and symptoms included a conjunctival mass in 37 patients (100%), periorbital discomfort or pain in 29 patients (61.9%), ptosis in 18 patients (23.8%), exophthalmos or eyeball displacement in 3 patients (14.3%), restricted eye movement in 2 patients (9.52%), vision loss in 1 patient (4.76%), and diplopia in 1 patient (4.76%). A total of 29 patients had only conjunctival involvement and 8 patients had concomitant orbital and conjunctival involvement. The main treatment for patients with conjunctival involvement was surgical resection. Thirty-one patients had stable disease, 4 patients progressed or relapsed, and 2 patients were lost to follow-up.

Conclusion

Ocular amyloidosis most commonly presents as an eyelid or conjunctival mass or diffuse thickening and can also present as an orbital mass. Diagnosis is mainly dependent on histopathological examination. Surgery is the main treatment and is done to confirm the diagnosis to guide further treatment, preserve function, and prevent complications that threaten visual acuity. Close postoperative follow-up is necessary.
Quantitative optical coherence tomography angiography assessments in the fellow eyes of those with central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Lin Jingjing , Mao Jianbo , Zhao Shixin , Chen Yiqi , Shen Lijun
Published: July 2024

Background

To analyze the vessel density (VD) of the retina and choriocapillaris (CC) layer and the structure of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) in the fellow eyes of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) patients by using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Methods

This was a case–control study. Unilateral CSC patients and age-matched healthy subjects were recruited from the Affiliated Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University between July 2016 and July 2021. All eyes were divided into three groups: acute CSC (aCSC), chronic CSC (cCSC), and healthy controls. Both aCSC and cCSC were again divided into two subgroups: the affected eyes and the fellow eyes. In this study, all parameters of VD and FAZ were measured by self-software of OCTA.

Results

A total of 231 eyes of 137 subjects were included, with 47 aCSC patients, 47 cCSC patients, and 43 healthy controls. In the fellow eyes of CSC, the retinal VD was significantly lower (all P < 0.05), and the FAZ was significantly larger (all P < 0.05) in the cCSC group than in healthy controls, while no difference was detected in the CC layer. There was no significant difference between the aCSC group and healthy controls in all OCTA parameters. In the affected eyes of CSC, the superficial retinal vessel density (SRVD) was significantly higher (all P < 0.05) in healthy controls than in the aCSC and cCSC groups, while the deep retinal vessel density (DRVD) was significantly lower (all P < 0.05) and the FAZ was larger (all P < 0.05) in the cCSC group than in the aCSC group and healthy controls. A liner regression equation was established: Y (BCVA, best corrected visual acuity) = 3.692–0.036✱X1 (DRVD-Fovea)-0.031✱X2 (FD-300, vessel density around the 300 μm width of the FAZ), R2 = 0.427.

Conclusion

Based on OCTA measurements, this study revealed that the retinal microvascular network was impaired even in the fellow eyes of those with cCSC, which should arouse attention to the observation of unilateral CSC.
A randomized controlled pilot study of daily intravenous ketamine over three days for treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Pattanaseri Keerati , Lortrakul Juthawadee , Jaisin Kankamol , Srifuengfung Maytinee , Sa-nguanpanich Naratip , Viravan Natee , Pariwatcharakul Pornjira , Makarasara Wattanan , Ratta-apha Woraphat
Published: July 2024

Background

Studies have confirmed the rapid antidepressant action of ketamine in depressive episodes. Nevertheless, a standardized procedure for the delivery of ketamine infusion in individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression, particularly in terms of infusion frequency and total dosage, remains undetermined. In addition, an efficacious ketamine regimen for persistent pain management involved a continuous 10-day infusion period with no notable adverse effects. Consequently, the primary objective of this study was to evaluate the antidepressant capacity of consecutive ketamine infusions spanning over three successive days, the duration of therapeutic response, and the overall safety profile of the treatment.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, participants aged 18–64 with treatment-resistant depression were randomized to receive either intravenous ketamine or midazolam (used as an active placebo) for 40 min daily over three consecutive days. Statistical analysis using repeated measures ANOVA was employed to assess the changes in the total score of the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and the clinical global impression-Severity from the initial assessment to 10 and 31 days post-infusion. Additionally, the duration of response and remission was evaluated using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis.

Results

Out of 33 randomized participants, 20 underwent the treatment as planned. By day 10th, the ketamine group had a mean reduction in MADRS score of 12.55 (95% CI = 6.70–18.09), whereas the midazolam group had a decrease of 17.22 (95% CI = 11.09–23.36). This pattern continued to day 31, with ketamine showing a mean score decrease of 13.73 (95% CI = 7.54–19.91) and midazolam a fall of 12.44 (95% CI = 5.61–19.28). Both treatments were well tolerated, with dissociative symptoms in the ketamine group being temporary and ceasing by the end of each infusion.

Conclusion

Intravenous ketamine given for three consecutive days did not show a notable antidepressant advantage when compared to the active placebo midazolam, highlighting the need for further research into effective treatments schedules for treatment-resistant depression.

Trial registration

NCT05026203, ClinicalTrials.gov, registered on 24/08/2021.
The association of social isolation and loneliness with sarcopenia among the middle-aged and elderly in China
Authors: Tu Lei , Li Yiqun , Ren Xiao , Jiang Minglan , Han Longyang , Zheng Xiaowei
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study examined the relationship of social isolation and loneliness on sarcopenia among Chinese middle-aged and elderly people.

Methods

Social isolation, loneliness, and sarcopenia were measured at baseline. Follow-up measures of new-onset sarcopenia were obtained 4 years later. Then used logistic regression to evaluate the association between social isolation, loneliness and sarcopenia.

Results

In cross-sectional analysis, social isolation and loneliness are significantly associated with sarcopenia [OR = 1.88 (95% CI = 1.54–2.28)]. In longitudinal analysis, social isolation and loneliness are significantly associated with sarcopenia [OR = 1.09 (95% CI = 0.71–1.69)]. Social isolation and loneliness have a synergistic effect. Among them, individuals over 60 years old [OR = 2.01 (95% CI = 1.37–2.96)] and those without social support [OR = 2.64 (1.61–4.32), P-for interaction < 0.001] are at higher risk.

Conclusion

Social isolation and loneliness were significantly associated with sarcopenia, and there was a synergistic effect between social isolation and loneliness.
Nasopharyngeal cancer risk assessment by country or region worldwide from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Wei Xian , Chen Biaoyou , Wang Zihao , Zhao Peng , Duan Xuwei
Published: July 2024

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is 22nd most common cancer that occurs all over the world, but the prevalence rate can exhibit significant geographical differences. The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database provides data related to the incidence, mortality, and disease burden of NPC worldwide from 1990 to 2019. We have designed this study in order to evaluate the potential effectiveness of health care policies and strategies for NPC prevention, diagnosis and treatment in different countries or regions around the world.

Methods

We used for the first time two distinct indicators, EAPC-ASIR and EACP-ASDR, to perform cluster analysis on 200 countries or regions around the world.

Results

200 countries or regions could be divided into five diverse groups. Group 1: The incidence rate showed an increasing trend whereas the mortality rate depicted a decreasing trend. Group 2: Morbidity as well as mortality showed a slight increase; Group 3: Morbidity as well as mortality increased significantly; Group 4: Morbidity and mortality decreased significantly; Group 5: Both morbidity as well as mortality decreased slightly. Moreover, in the context of a global decline in NPC incidence, mortality and disease burden, Group 3 countries, including: “Turkmenistan”, “Bosnia and Herzegovina”, “Dominican Republic”, “Bulgaria”, “Lesotho”, “Cabo Verde”, “Romania”, “Cuba”, “Jamaica”, “Azerbaijan”, “Uzbekistan”, “Chad”, “Belize” and “Ukraine” displayed a significant increase in morbidity, mortality, and disease burden, thus indicating a dangerous trend.

Conclusion

It is suggested that the medical and health policies formulated by the countries in Group 3 for NPC, as well as their capacity for conducting censuses, preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases, need to be substantially strengthened.
Effect of vaccine hesitancy on female college students’ willingness to receive the HPV vaccine in China: a multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Xiaoxue , Zhang Fengzhi , Li Manman , Lin Chunhui , Shi Kaige , Yang Fangfang
Published: July 2024

Objective

To analyse the influencing factors of vaccine hesitancy on HPV vaccination willingness of female college students in order to promote the promotion of HPV vaccine in female college student population.

Methods

From September-October 2022, a convenience sampling method was used to conduct a questionnaire survey among freshman female students from four higher vocational colleges in Henan Province, China. The survey comprised a general information questionnaire, as well as inquiries regarding vaccine hesitancy and willingness to receive the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. In PSM analyses, vaccine-hesitant students were matched with non-vaccine-hesitant students at a 1:1 ratio; subsequently, both univariate and multivariatble logistic regression analyses were applied to assess the impact of vaccine hesitancy on female university students’ willingness to receive the HPV vaccine.

Results

The results revealed a vaccine hesitancy rate of 44.75% among female university students, with 82.9% expressing willingness to receive the HPV vaccine. The results of the multivariable ordinal logistic regression analysis indicated vaccine hesitancy is a risk factor for HPV vaccination intentions among female university students [OR = 4.38, 95% CI (2.74, 6.99), P < 0.001]. Furthermore, the field of study (P = 0.01) and independently seeking information about the HPV vaccine (P = 0.04) were identified as factors influencing female university students’ willingness to receive the HPV vaccine.

Conclusions

Non-vaccine-hesitant students were more likely to be willing to receive the HPV vaccine than vaccine-hesitant students. Healthcare providers and educators should focus on vaccine attitudes among female college students to reduce vaccine hesitancy and enhance community education on cervical cancer, HPV infection and prevention through multichannel campaigns.
Comparison of the quadrant method measuring four points and bernard method in femoral tunnel position evaluation on 3-dimensional reconstructed computed tomography after anatomical single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Li Jingxin , Yang Jie , Xu Zhaoguang , Wang Weican
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This prospective study aimed to compare the postoperative evaluation of the quadrant method measuring four points and Bernard method in femoral tunnel position evaluation on 3-Dimensional (3D) reconstructed computed tomography (CT) following the arthroscopic single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

Methods

Thirty-eight patients with ACL tears that were reconstructed using single-bundle ACL reconstruction between May 2021 and March 2023 were included in this study. Postoperative 3D CT images were obtained after the operation. The femoral tunnel position was measured by use of the quadrant method measuring four points and Bernard method.

Results

Average mean position of the femoral tunnel insertion center on the 3D CT image was at 26.16 ± 6.27% in the x-coordinate and at 24.36 ± 5.52% in the y-coordinate according to the Bernard method. Meanwhile, the position of the femoral insertion of the ACL measured by the quadrant method measuring four points was 24.2% ± 6.86% in the x-coordinate and 21.16% ± 5.14% in the y-coordinate.

Conclusions

Both the quadrant method measuring four points and Bernard method were effective in femoral tunnel position evaluation on 3D reconstructed CT. Application of the quadrant method measuring four points on 3D CT showed the advantage that measurement can be taken regardless of the shape of the bone tunnel.
Geographical distribution of MTHFR C677T gene polymorphisms among the reproductive-age women in Chinese Han populations: based on migration
Authors: Shen Yifen , Gu Yongchun , Tang Ying , Shen Hao , Liu Chao
Published: July 2024

Background

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is essential for the metabolism of folic acid and homocysteine. The MTHFR C677T polymorphism is associated with several disorders. Our study aims to explore the geographical distributions of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism of women in China and how migration affected the polymorphism in Suzhou.

Methods

A total of 7188 women of reproductive age were recruited in Suzhou of the study. Subjects were classified according to their native places after data extraction. MTHFR C677T gene polymorphisms were detected by quantitative PCR with genomic DNA isolated from blood samples.

Results

The frequencies of the 677T allele and 677TT genotype were higher in northern China than that in southern China and decreased in geographical gradients from north to south. The frequencies were considerably higher in the migrant population than that in the indigenous population of Suzhou. The migrant population have gradually changed the prevalence in Suzhou.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that the prevalence of MTHFR C677T polymorphisms among women varied across different geographical regions in Chinese Han populations. The 677T allele frequencies of the northern populations were significantly higher than those of the southern populations. The migrant population gradually changed the prevalence of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism in Suzhou.