bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nosocomial dissemination of blaIMP-4 among Klebsiella pneumoniae by horizontal gene transfer and clonal spread: the epidemic IncN plasmids and the emerging high-risk IMP-4-producing ST101 clone
Authors: Wang Xing , Qin Jie , Xiang Guoxiu , Wang Chen , Wang Qichen , Qin Juanxiu , Wang Haiying , Shen Zhen
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To determine the genomic features of IMP-4-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates recovered from paediatric patients and the transmission dynamics of blaIMP-4.

Methods

IMP-producing K. pneumoniae isolates were collected from paediatric patients in Shanghai Children’s Medical Center from 2013 to 2020. WGS was performed for all isolates, and the complete genomes of three IMP-4-producing isolates were generated. The distribution of blaIMP-4-harbouring plasmids was determined, and a conjugation assay was employed to investigate the horizontal transfer of blaIMP-4-harbouring plasmids.

Results

We collected 21 blaIMP-carrying K. pneumoniae isolates, with IMP-4 (16/21, 76.2%) as the predominant subtype, followed by IMP-8 (n = 3) and IMP-26 (n = 2). IMP-4-producing isolates displayed a diverse population structure and all blaIMP-4 genes were located on plasmids, including IncN (n = 9), IncHI5 (n = 5), IncFII(K) (n = 1) and IncFII(pKP91) (n = 1), although only IncN plasmids were conjugative. Clonal transmission of ST101 strains carrying IncHI5 blaIMP-4-harbouring plasmids was observed, and the acquisition of blaIMP-4 by the international high-risk ST101 clone constituted a novel combination of ST101 clone and carbapenemase genes. Plasmid analysis demonstrated that the conjugal transfer of the IncHI5 blaIMP-4-harbouring plasmid might be blocked by the ST101 bacterial host.

Conclusions

The horizontal transfer of IncN plasmids and clonal spread of the international high-risk ST101 clone facilitated the nosocomial dissemination of blaIMP-4 among K. pneumoniae. The emerging IMP-4-producing ST101 clone displays diverse combinations of carbapenemase genes, and this clone could be a continually evolving threat and warrants prospective monitoring.
Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) trap captures at orchard and nonorchard sites and the influence of uncultivated woody host plants in adjoining woodlots
Authors: Hadden Whitney , Brewster Carlyle C , Leskey Tracy C , Bergh J Christopher
Published: October 2023

The invasive Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) has threatened Mid-Atlantic tree fruit since 2010. To identify factors underlying observed differences in H. halys pest pressure among individual orchards within a geographically proximate area, a 3-yr study was conducted across 10 apple orchard and 8 nonorchard sites bordered by unmanaged woodlots. At each site, 3 pheromone traps were monitored weekly for H. halys captures from late April to mid-October. Apple injury was assessed at harvest at orchard sites annually, and a survey of woody plants found in woodlots adjacent to all sites was conducted. There were no significant differences in captures between orchard and nonorchard site types, but captures were significantly different among individual orchard sites and among individual nonorchard sites. A significant positive relationship between the amount of stink bug injury on apple at harvest and late season captures was detected at orchard sites in 2018 and 2019. Among woodlots adjacent to all sites, a significant positive relationship between the proportion of Lonicera spp. and mid- and late-season nymphal captures was identified. Season-long nymphal captures were positively related to the proportion of Lonicera and Elaeagnus and negatively with Sassafras. For adults, captures were negatively related to the proportion of Ailanthus and positively related to the proportion of Fraxinus in the early and mid-season, respectively. Our results indicate that orchard presence was not driving the relative abundance of localized H. halys populations and that differences in relative densities among sites point to other factors, such as abundance of specific uncultivated woody hosts in unmanaged areas.
An Ecocentric Perspective on Climate Litigation: Lessons from Latin America
Authors: de Salles Cavedon-Capdeville Fernanda , Berros María Valeria , Filpi Humberto , Villavicencio-Calzadilla Paola
Published: October 2023

Based on the latest developments in ecological law in Latin America, including the recognition of the rights of nature, this article examines emerging climate-related cases that, challenging Western anthropocentric legal paradigms, address the climate crisis from an ecocentric perspective to protect both human and nature rights. Through novel arguments based on ecological law counter-narratives and a rights of nature perspective, these cases are giving way to the emergence of a new typology of climate litigation in which the intrinsic value and interests of all life forms and the legal status of nature are recognized. First, this article analyses the experience and current trends in the emerging field of ecological law in the region, including ecological and intergenerational dimensions of human rights and the legal and jurisprudential recognition of the rights of nature. Second, it reviews and compares some of the most relevant climate-related cases as well as recent, less known—some still pending—claims that incorporate an ecocentric approach, combining the protection of the rights of present and future generations and the rights of nature or exploring other arguments in the field of ecological law. These cases have the potential to contribute to the development of climate litigation with an ecocentric profile. Attention is given to the main arguments, characteristics, strengths, and shortcomings of these cases, as well as to potential barriers to the development of an ecocentric angle to climate litigation and the implementation of judicial decisions.
A Short History of Prosecuting Crimes under International Law in Germany
Authors: Jeßberger Florian
Published: October 2023

This article takes the 20th anniversary of the entering into force of the German Code of Crimes against International Law (Völkerstrafgesetzbuch, CCAIL) as an opportunity to offer a historical review of the prosecution of international crimes in (West-)Germany. Starting from the post-World War II period, it flags early milestones, including efforts to hold accountable before German courts those involved in Nazi atrocities, in state oppression in the German Democratic Republic, in violations of international humanitarian law during the Yugoslav wars, and in dictatorship crimes in Argentina. This article then focuses on the practical implementation of the CCAIL and presents, at a glance, major trends, flaws and lessons learned over the past 20 years. It identifies four major phases: standstill, build-up, implementation and consolidation. This article concludes with a call for German judges and prosecutors to step up their efforts to contribute to a uniform and universal enforcement of international criminal law.
A synthetic resveratrol–curcumin hybrid derivative exhibits chemopreventive effects on colon pre-neoplastic lesions by targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways
Authors: Baptistella Mariane Minussi , Assunção Raphaela Rebeca Silveira , Sales de Oliveira Carolina , Siqueira Aléxia Polo , Gonçalves dos Santos Elda , de Freitas Silva Matheus , Lima Ellen Tardelli Faleiros , Caixeta Ester Siqueira , Novaes Rômulo Dias , Ferreira Eric Batista , Ionta Marisa , Viegas Jr. Claudio , Francielli de Oliveira Pollyanna
Published: October 2023

Based on the effectiveness of resveratrol and curcumin in carcinogenesis, (E)-3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-Nʹ-((E)-4-methoxybenzylidene) acrylohydrazide (PQM-162), curcumin–resveratrol hybrid derivative, was designed by molecular hybridization using a hydrazone functionality as a spacer moiety between pharmacophoric fragments inspired by the parent compounds.

Objectives

The present study aimed to evaluate the chemopreventive effects of the hybrid against pre-neoplastic lesions induced in the colon of rodents.

Methods

The doses were determined based on the reduction in DNA damage induced by doxorubicin [15 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)] in peripheral blood of Swiss mice. Doses of 8, 16, 32, and 64 mg/kg b.w. were antimutagenic. For the evaluation of pre-neoplastic lesions in the colon, Wistar rats were treated with PQM-162 at doses of 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg b.w. for 6 weeks using three approaches: simultaneous treatment, pre-treatment, and post-treatment. Pre-neoplastic lesions were induced with 1,2 dimethylhydrazine (160 mg/kg b.w.).

Key findings

PQM-162 reduced the formation of aberrant crypt foci in the simultaneous treatment and post-treatment. TNF-α and COX-2 mRNA levels decreased, while Nrf2 mRNA levels increased. PQM-162 also reduced the expression of COX-2, PCNA, and β-catenin protein markers and increased Nrf2 expression.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a chemopreventive potential of PQM-162 in colorectal carcinogenesis, which acts on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cell proliferation pathways.
‘I Did Not Choose to Be in Your Country’: Social-Racial Hierarchies in Peru and Venezuelan Migrant Women’s Responses
Authors: Pérez Leda M
Published: October 2023

Drawing on 72 interviews with Venezuelan migrant women across five Peruvian cities between 2018 and 2020, this article discusses the prevailing intersectional discriminations they have experienced. I also explore their resistance to social marginalizations that position them along a social-racial hierarchy based on xenophobia, sexism, and racialization. My research has found that their responses to these treatments are to reposition themselves as politically and morally equal, if not superior, to host country nationals. I close the article with questions about what these dynamics portend for future inquiries on south–south migrations.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation for aortic regurgitation in HeartMate II supported patient using Myval THV: a case report
Authors: Hamieh Mohamad , Nassereddine Zahra , Moussa Malek , Al Ali Firas , Dbouk Mohamad , Saab Mohamad
Published: October 2023

De novo aortic regurgitation (AR) presents a great challenge following left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation and requires valve replacement in some cases. Patients with LVAD are frequently those who underwent multiple previous sternotomies or suffer from multiple comorbidities. Thus, they are at high surgical risk for further sternotomy. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) previously approved for treatment of severe aortic stenosis is also used for this category of patients. Here, we report the case of a young female patient supported with heart mate II LVAD who presented with severe de novo AR. The patient was successfully treated with TAVI using Myval trancatheter heart valve (THV) in our center. To our knowledge, our patient is the first to be treated with such type of valve using TAVI procedure in LVAD supported patients.
Concurrent dermoid and epidermoid cysts in an adolescent patient: a case report
Authors: Taylor Justin J , Scherer Andrea G , Shao Lei , Westmoreland Tamarah J
Published: October 2023

Dermoid and epidermoid cysts are benign lesions of ectodermal origin which are pathologically distinct entities, although often clinically indistinguishable. Cyst location, mobility, and appearance on MRI can help distinguish the two, however the distinction is mostly academic since both types have similar management. Co-occurrence of dermoid and epidermoid cysts together in the same patient has not been observed in the literature, however one case of an epidermoid cyst evolving into a dermoid cyst has been documented. In this case report, we identify a 16-year-old male with three separate cysts of the scalp and leg which, after histopathological analysis following surgical resection, were found to represent both dermoid and epidermoid cysts. We offer potential explanations for this rare occurrence in the absence of a genetic syndrome and highlight the importance of performing a thorough work-up of patients with multiple cysts.
Familial Mediterranean fever and scleroderma: a rare case report from Syria
Authors: Nahas Lujain , Al Khudari Rawan , Khalil Basheer
Published: October 2023

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an inherited autoinflammatory disease that affects the skin, joints, serous membranes and other various organs. Presentation of FMF can be solely but it can coexist with other conditions. It has been shown that it can be accompanied by various different disorders. Scleroderma is an autoimmune dermatologic condition that can present with systemic manifestations. No previous cases about the coexistence of FMF and scleroderma were previously documented, therefore we report the first case in Syria of a 10-year-old female that presented with clinically clear signs of both conditions (periodic fever and serous chest pain in addition to skin hyperpigmentation). The patient’s symptoms required full genetic testing along with the proper antibody detection and The diagnosis of FMF and scleroderma was confirmed by genetic testing and treatment was started.
Comparisons of Non-Oral Immune-Related Adverse Events Among Patients With Cancer With Different Oral Toxicity Profiles
Authors: Xu Yuanming , Wen Natalie , Haddad Robert I , Sonis Stephen T , Villa Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are common. Oral irAEs tend to cluster in patients who experience concurrent toxicities. We aimed to characterize the frequency and trajectory of non-oral irAEs in patients who developed oral irAEs, assess their relationship with non-oral irAEs, and compare those characteristics with patients without oral irAEs.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify patients who started ICIT between December 11, 2011, and September 15, 2019 (n = 4683) in the Mass General Brigham Registered Patient Data Registry. Demographic information, cancer diagnosis, ICIT regimen, treatment duration, and time and number of infusions to irAE onset were recorded. Non-oral irAEs were categorized into 13 groups. Patients with melanoma, pulmonary cancer, or head and neck cancer who had oral irAEs were then matched with those without oral irAEs to compare the prevalence of concomitant non-oral irAEs.

Results

Three hundred and fourteen patients with oral irAEs with a mean age of 65.9 ± 12.6 years (43.3% females) were included. Patients with multiple oral irAEs were more likely to have non-oral irAEs (OR: 2.7, 95% CI, 1.3-3.5), including cutaneous (OR: 1.7, 95% CI, 1.1-3.0), rheumatological (OR: 2.2, 95% CI, 1.1-4.2), thyroid (OR: 2.4, 95% CI, 1.2-4.9), and neurological irAEs (OR: 2.5, 95% CI, 1.0-6.3). Compared to matched patients with non-oral irAEs, patients with oral irAEs were more likely to have cutaneous (OR: 1.7, 95% CI, 1.0-2.8) and thyroid (OR: 2.86, 95% CI, 1.1-7.5) irAEs. The development of oral and non-oral irAEs is often coincidental.

Conclusion

Patients who have non-oral irAEs should be monitored for development of oral irAEs for prompt management.
Real-World Patient Experience of Pexidartinib for Tenosynovial Giant-Cell Tumor
Authors: Lin Feng , Jacqueline Kwong Winghan , Pan Irene , Ye Xin , Dai Dong , Tap William
Published: October 2023

Background

Pexidartinib (Turalio) is the only systemic therapy approved by the FDA for the treatment of adult patients with symptomatic tenosynovial giant-cell tumor (TGCT) associated with severe morbidity or functional limitations, and not amenable to improvement with surgery. This study assessed patient-reported treatment experiences and symptom improvement among patients receiving pexidartinib.

Methods

A cross-sectional, web-based survey collected data on demographics, disease history, pexidartinib dosing, and symptoms before and after pexidartinib use.

Results

Of 288 patients enrolled in the Turalio REMS program in May 2021, 83 completed the survey: mean age was 44.2 years, 62.7% were female, and most common tumor sites were in knee (61%) and ankle (12%). Mean initial dose was 622 mg/day: 29 patients reported reduction from initial dose and 8 had dose reduction after titrating up to a higher dose. At the time of survey completion, median time on pexidartinib was 6.0 months; 22 (26.5%) patients discontinued pexidartinib due to physician suggestion, abnormal laboratory results, side effect, or symptom improvement. Compared with before pexidartinib initiation, most patients reported improvement in overall TGCT symptom (78.3%) and physical function (77.2%) during pexidartinib treatment. Significant improvement was reported during pexidartinib treatment in worst stiffness numeric rating scale (NRS) (3.0 vs. 6.2, P < .05) and worst pain NRS (2.7 vs. 5.7, P < .05).

Conclusion

Findings from this cross-sectional survey confirmed the benefit of pexidartinib in improving symptoms and functional outcomes among patients with symptomatic TGCTs from the patients’ perspective. Future research is warranted to examine the long-term benefit and risk of pexidartinib.
Praying
Authors: Reynolds Paige
Published: October 2023

The Catholic Church’s power over the Irish imaginary has been executed in part through its disciplining of the ritualized practice of prayer, a force that has landed most heavily on the artificially privatized experience of women. Representing prayer through the tactics of the modernist mode, Irish women writers draw attention to the ways that female consciousness submits to, as well as eludes, the formidable structures imposed by organized religion. In Kate O’Brien’s The Land of Spices (1941), Mary Lavin’s twentieth-century short fiction, Emma Donoghue’s Hood (1995), and Eimear McBride’s A Girl Is a Half-formed Thing (2013), prayer surfaces in the narrative as public practice and as private meditation. These works acknowledge the unfathomable nature of prayer and provide readers sophisticated and sympathetic accounts of this practice, even as they critique how prayer creates a specious feeling of individual well-being and binds practitioners uncritically to an institution.
Quantifying the Energy Spillover between Photosystems II and I in Cyanobacterial Thylakoid Membranes and Cells
Authors: Akhtar Parveen , Balog-Vig Fanny , Han Wenhui , Li Xingyue , Han Guangye , Shen Jian-Ren , Lambrev Petar H
Published: October 2023

The spatial separation of photosystems I and II (PSI and PSII) is thought to be essential for efficient photosynthesis by maintaining a balanced flow of excitation energy between them. Unlike the thylakoid membranes of plant chloroplasts, cyanobacterial thylakoids do not form tightly appressed grana stacks that enforce strict lateral separation. The coexistence of the two photosystems provides a ground for spillover—excitation energy transfer from PSII to PSI. Spillover has been considered as a pathway of energy transfer from the phycobilisomes to PSI and may also play a role in state transitions as means to avoid overexcitation of PSII. Here, we demonstrate a significant degree of energy spillover from PSII to PSI in reconstituted membranes and isolated thylakoid membranes of Thermosynechococcus (Thermostichus) vulcanus and Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 by steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. The quantum yield of spillover in these systems was determined to be up to 40%. Spillover was also found in intact cells but to a considerably lower degree (20%) than in isolated thylakoid membranes. The findings support a model of coexistence of laterally separated microdomains of PSI and PSII in the cyanobacterial cells as well as domains where the two photosystems are energetically connected. The methodology presented here can be applied to probe spillover in other photosynthetic organisms.
How Americans Respond to Idiosyncratic and Exogenous Changes in Household Wealth and Unearned Income
Authors: Golosov Mikhail , Graber Michael , Mogstad Magne , Novgorodsky David
Published: October 2023

We study how Americans respond to idiosyncratic and exogenous changes in household wealth and unearned income. Our analyses combine administrative data on U.S. lottery winners with an event study design. We first examine individual and household earnings responses to these windfall gains, finding significant and sizable wealth and income effects. On average, an extra ${\$}$1 of unearned income in a given period reduces household labor earnings by about 50 cents, decreases total labor taxes by 10 cents, and increases consumption expenditure by 60 cents. These effects are heterogeneous across the income distribution, with households in higher quartiles of the income distribution reducing their earnings by a larger amount. Next we examine margins of adjustment other than earnings and, in the course of doing so, address a number of important economic questions about how additional wealth or unearned income affect retirement decisions and labor market dynamics, family formation and dissolution, entrepreneurship and self-employment, and geographic mobility and neighborhood choice. Last, we carefully compare our findings to those reported in existing lottery studies. This comparison reveals that existing U.S. studies substantially underestimate wealth and income effects because they use measures that understate the earnings responses and overstate the after-tax wealth changes associated with lottery wins.
The Bruce–Roberts Numbers of a Function on an ICIS
Authors: Lima-Pereira B K , Nuno-Ballesteros J J , Orefice-Okamoto B , Tomazella J N
Published: October 2023

We relate a number of invariants of a function germ with isolated singularity over an isolated complete intersection singularity (ICIS), generalizing our previous results, [17, 18], as a consequence we present a new relatively elementary proof of Greuel’s theorem that for a weighted homogeneous ICIS the Milnor number is equal to Tjurina number. With this relation, we are able to prove that the relative logarithmic characteristic variety is Cohen–Macaulay at any point and the logarithmic characteristic variety is Cohen–Macaulay at any point not in $X\times \{0\}$.
Differences in bone microarchitecture between genetic and secondary iron‐overload mouse models suggest a role for hepcidin deficiency in iron‐related osteoporosis
Authors: Robin François , Chappard Daniel , Leroyer Patricia , Latour Chloé , Mabilleau Guillaume , Monbet Valérie , Cavey Thibault , Horeau Mathieu , Derbré Frédéric , Roth Marie‐Paule , Ropert Martine , Guggenbuhl Pascal , Loréal Olivier
Published: October 2023

Iron overload is one of the secondary osteoporosis etiologies. Cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in iron‐related osteoporosis are not fully understood.

Aim

The aim of the study was to investigate the respective roles of iron excess and hepcidin, the systemic iron regulator, in the development of iron‐related osteoporosis.

Material and Methods

We used mice models with genetic iron overload (GIO) related to hepcidin deficiency (Hfe−/− and Bmp6−/−) and secondary iron overload (SIO) exhibiting a hepcidin increase secondary to iron excess. Iron concentration and transferrin saturation levels were evaluated in serum and hepatic, spleen, and bone iron concentrations were assessed by ICP‐MS and Perl's staining. Gene expression was evaluated by quantitative RT‐PCR. Bone micro‐architecture was evaluated by micro‐CT. The osteoblastic MC3T3 murine cells that are able to mineralize were exposed to iron and/or hepcidin.

Results

Despite an increase of bone iron concentration in all overloaded mice models, bone volume/total volume (BV/TV) and trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) only decreased significantly in GIO, at 12 months for Hfe−/− and from 6 months for Bmp6−/−. Alterations in bone microarchitecture in the Bmp6−/− model were positively correlated with hepcidin levels (BV/TV (ρ = +.481, p < .05) and Tb.Th (ρ = +.690, p < .05). Iron deposits were detected in the bone trabeculae of Hfe−/− and Bmp6−/− mice, while iron deposits were mainly visible in bone marrow macrophages in secondary iron overload. In cell cultures, ferric ammonium citrate exposure abolished the mineralization process for concentrations above 5 μM, with a parallel decrease in osteocalcin, collagen 1, and alkaline phosphatase mRNA levels. Hepcidin supplementation of cells had a rescue effect on the collagen 1 and alkaline phosphatase expression level decrease.

Conclusion

Together, these data suggest that iron in excess alone is not sufficient to induce osteoporosis and that low hepcidin levels also contribute to the development of osteoporosis.
Research Priorities to Improve Treatment of Patients Exposed to Xylazine-fentanyl: Rapid Communication from a National Institute on Drug Abuse Center for the Clinical Trials Network Meeting
Authors: Haroz Rachel , Huntley Kristen , Perrone Jeanmarie
Published: October 2023

In response to the rapid escalation in the detection of xylazine in the unregulated drug supply, in April 2023, the White House designated fentanyl contaminated with xylazine an “emerging threat.” The National Institute on Drug Abuse Center for Clinical Trials Network convened a multidisciplinary meeting of stakeholders, federal staff members, researchers, and clinicians caring for patients with fentanyl and xylazine exposures. This convening focused on the most critical areas of concern with the goal of describing current practices and a xylazine-fentanyl research agenda. Discussions focused on the domains of epidemiology and laboratory detection, xylazine withdrawal and overdose, and dermal manifestations. The authors were involved in planning and moderating the program and providing a summary of the proceedings.
METTL3 regulates glucose transporter expression in placenta exposed to hyperglycemia through the mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Ning Jie , Huai Jing , Wang Shuxian , Yan Jie , Su Rina , Zhang Muqiu , Liu Mengtong , Yang Huixia
Published: October 2023

Background:

Alterations in the placental expression of glucose transporters (GLUTs), the crucial maternal–fetal nutrient transporters, have been found in women with hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP). However, there is still uncertainty about the underlying effect of the high-glucose environment on placental GLUTs expression in HIP.

Methods:

We quantitatively evaluated the activity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and expression of GLUTs (GLUT1, GLUT3, and GLUT4) in the placenta of women with normal pregnancies (CTRL,n= 12) and pregnant women complicated with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM,n= 12) by immunohistochemistry. In addition, BeWo cells were treated with different glucose concentrations to verify the regulation of hyperglycemia. Then, changes in the expression of GLUTs following the activation or suppression of the mTOR pathway were also assessed using MHY1485/rapamycin (RAPA) treatment or small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated silencing approaches. Moreover, we further explored the alteration and potential upstream regulatory role of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) when exposed to hyperglycemia.

Results:

mTOR, phosphorylated mTOR (p-mTOR), and GLUT1 protein levels were upregulated in the placenta of women with T2DM compared with those CTRL. In BeWo cells, mTOR activity increased with increasing glucose concentration, and the expression of GLUT1, GLUT3, and GLUT4 as well as GLUT1 cell membrane translocation were upregulated by hyperglycemia to varying degrees. Both the drug-mediated and genetic depletion of mTOR signaling in BeWo cells suppressed GLUTs expression, whereas MHY1485-induced mTOR activation upregulated GLUTs expression. Additionally, high glucose levels upregulated METTL3 expression and nuclear translocation, and decreasing METTL3 levels suppressed GLUTs expression and mTOR activity andvice versa. Furthermore, in METTL3 knockdown BeWo cells, the inhibitory effect on GLUTs expression was eliminated by activating the mTOR signaling pathway using MHY1485.

Conclusion:

High-glucose environment-induced upregulation of METTL3 in trophoblasts regulates the expression of GLUTs through mTOR signaling, contributing to disordered nutrient transport in women with HIP.
Global and regional trends in the incidence and mortality burden of endometrial cancer, 1990–2019: Updated results from the Global Burden of Disease Study, 2019
Authors: Feng Jianyang , Lin Rongjin , Li Haoxian , Wang Jiayan , He Hong
Published: October 2023

Background:

The disease burdens for endometrial cancer (EC) vary across different countries and geographical regions and change every year. Herein, we reported the updated results of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 on EC with respect to age-standardized incidence and mortality from 1990 to 2019.

Methods:

The annual percentage change (APC) of incidence and mortality was evaluated using joinpoint regression analysis to examine the temporal trends during the same timeframe in terms of the global landscape, different sociodemographic indices (SDI), and geographic regions. The relationship between Human Development Index (HDI) and incidence and mortality was additionally explored.

Results:

The age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) revealed a significant average global elevation by 0.5% per year (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.3–0.7; P <0.001). The age-standardized mortality rates (ASMRs), in contrast, fell by an average of 0.8% per year (95% CI, -1.0 to -0.7; P <0.001) worldwide. The ASIRs and ASMRs for EC varied across different SDIs and geographical regions. We noted four temporal trends and a significant reduction by 0.5% per year since 2010 in the ASIR, whereas we detected six consecutively decreasing temporal trends in ASMR during the entire period. Notably, the estimated APCs were significantly positively correlated with HDIs (ρ = 0.22; 95% CI, 0.07–0.35; P = 0.003) with regard to incident cases in 2019.

Conclusions:

Incidence rates for EC reflected a significant increase overall (although we observed a decline since 2010), and the death rates declined consecutively from 1990 to 2019. We posit that more precise strategies can be tailored and then implemented based on the distinct age-standardized incidence and mortality burden in different geographical areas.
A review of the state of cervical cancer: updates from prevention to recurrent disease
Authors: Crafton Sarah M. , Venkat Puja S. , Salani Ritu
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

To summarize the recent updates in cervical cancer from prevention and early detection to the management of early stage and recurrent disease as well as future areas of exploration.

Recent findings

The importance of the human papilloma virus vaccine and screening continue to make an impact in reducing the global burden of cervical cancer. In early-stage, low risk disease, new studies have demonstrated the role of less radical surgery with similar disease related outcomes. Efforts to improve outcomes in locally advanced cervical cancer have been reported. The incorporation of adjuvant chemotherapy, novel agents and checkpoint inhibitors, with the latter impacting disease free survival. In advanced/recurrent disease, the role of immunotherapy continues to make an impact and, in addition to recurrent disease, has now moved to the frontline for patients with programmed cell death ligand 1 expression. Tisotumab vedotin, an antibody drug conjugate, and other novel agents continue to be studied in this setting.

In this review, we discuss prevention measures and the outcomes of recent trials in all stages of cervical cancer. As therapies continue to evolve, ongoing trials and new areas of exploration will continue to identify opportunities to improve survival in cervical cancer.
The effects of therapeutic touch and music on sleep quality, menopausal symptoms, and quality of life in menopausal women
Authors: Keskin Töre Fatma , Yağmur Yurdagül
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the effects of therapeutic touch (TT) and music on sleep quality, menopausal symptoms, and quality of life in menopausal women.

Methods

This study was carried out in an experimental model with a pretest, a posttest, and a control group. The study was completed with a total of 108 menopausal women in the TT, music, and control groups. Data were collected using a Participant Information Form, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Menopause Rating Scale, and the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Scale. TT was applied in the TT group once a week for 4 weeks, and the music group was asked to listen to music for 30 minutes before bedtime every day for 4 weeks. Posttest data were collected in all groups 4 weeks after the pretest. The χ2, analysis of covariance, post hoc tests, and partial η
2 methods were used to analyze the collected data.

Results

When the effect of the pretest scores was adjusted, compared with the control group, there were statistically significant differences in the posttest scores of the participants in both the TT and music groups in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index dimensions of subjective sleep quality (P < 0.001), sleep latency (P ≤ 0.001), and sleep disturbances (P < 0.05). When the effect of the pretest scores was adjusted, compared with the control group, there were statistically significant differences in the posttest scores of the participants in both the TT and music groups in the Menopause Rating Scale and Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Scale (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

It was concluded that TT and music increased sleep quality (subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, and sleep disturbances) and quality of life and reduced menopausal symptoms.
Left atrial appendage closure: the journey today and tomorrow
Authors: Lu Marvin Louis Roy , De Lurgio David Bowers
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

This review aims to discuss the rationale behind the development of percutaneous LAAC devices as a treatment option for atrial fibrillation patients ineligible for long-term anticoagulation. The evolution of LAAC, from early experiences and challenges to risk mitigation and improved devices and techniques, will be examined. Furthermore, the review will explore our current understanding of the potential and limitations of LAAC in stroke prevention.

Recent findings

Multiple trials confirm LAAC device safety and efficacy for stroke prevention, but peri-device leak and thrombus remain concerns postimplantation. Even small leaks pose increased stroke risk. While guidelines suggest short-term anticoagulation postimplant; real-world data show equivalent efficacy with dual antiplatelet regimen.

LAAC device design has evolved and now serve as a viable option for stroke prevention in high-risk atrial fibrillation patients, offering protection in the absence of anticoagulation.
A Ten-Year Retrospective Cohort Study of Real-World Effectiveness of Sofosbuvir-Based Regimens for Hepatitis C in a Single Center in China
Authors: Yang Qiao , Xu Fangping , Shen Yi , Pi Borui , Lv Fangfang
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to review the trends of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment over the past decade and to analyze the effectiveness of sofosbuvir (SOF)-based direct-acting antiviral regimens in the heterogeneous population of patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) in clinical practice. This retrospective cohort study included CHC patients attending the Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2022. All of the 194 patients treated with SOF-based regimens completed 12 weeks of treatment and were followed up for at least 12 weeks after completion of the therapy. Sustained virologic response (SVR) 12 weeks after the end of treatment was the primary endpoint. A total of 194 patients treated with SOF-based regimens were included, among which 121, 56, 10 and 7 patients received SOF + velpatasvir±ribavirin, SOF + daclatasvir, SOF + ledipasvir or SOF + ribavirin, respectively. With 36.1%, HCV genotype 1 predominated in CHC patients treated with SOF-based regimens, followed by genotype 2a with 17.5% and genotype 3 with 14.9%. Comorbidities among patients included hypertension (4.1%), diabetes (2.1%), depression (1.0%) and neoplastic disease (2.6%). All patients treated with SOF-based regimens achieved SVR. There was no association between SVR and factors such as HCV genotype, sex, age, presence of cirrhosis or previous treatment history. There were no reports of any serious adverse events in the study. This single-center retrospective study represented the latest 10-year treatment trends for HCV in real-world clinical practice and provided useful information on the excellent efficacy of SOF-based direct-acting antiviral regimens for treatment of CHC patients in Eastern China.
Prevalence of Depression in Elderly People Living With HIV: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ahmed Gasmelseed Y. , Saha Chandni , Almusalami Eman M. , Rabaan Ali A. , Alhumaid Saad , Ali Abdelraheem A. , Basheer AbdAllah A. , Babikir Yousra , Aljofan Ziyad Fahad , Al Mutair Abbas
Published: October 2023

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the prevalence of depression among elderly people living with HIV. We searched electronic databases and included 12 observational studies that reported on depression among people who were 50 years of age or older and had HIV. The studies were mostly hospital-based and from Western and African countries. They included a total of 5868 older people with HIV, of whom 1667 had depression. Pooled prevalence of depression was 28% with heterogeneity of 95.2%. Prevalence ranged from 14.5% in the Netherlands to 42.4% in South Africa. Although there was asymmetry in the funnel plot, the Egger’s test showed no significant publication bias. Our meta-analysis found a high burden of depression among older people with HIV. Comprehensive health services addressing psychosocial needs and interventions to prevent and treat depression are needed, especially in community settings. Healthcare providers and policymakers should address the prevalence of depression in such communities.
Erysipeloid and Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae Bacteremia Secondary to a Crab Stab Wound: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Deng Chaowen , Li Xin , Liu Defu , Sun Linlin , Ye Haiyan , Xing Fanfan
Published: October 2023

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is a facultative anaerobic, nonmotile, nonspore-forming, gram-positive bacillus. It is a zoonotic pathogen that rarely infects humans but causes swine erysipelas. The disease caused by E. rhusiopathiae can manifest in the following three main forms: erysipeloid, diffuse cutaneous infections, and bacteremia with or without endocarditis. In this article, we present the case study of a healthy Chinese man who developed erysipeloid and an E. rhusiopathiae bloodstream infection after being stabbed by a crab. Additionally, we conducted a thorough review of the available literature on E. rhusiopathiae bacteremia within the past two decades and provided a summary of the key findings. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial in mitigating recurrence risk and avoiding sepsis. Understanding the risk factors for death from E. rhusiopathiae bacteremia is essential, and appropriate personal protective equipment should be used to prevent occupational exposure to this bacterium.
The Importance of Multidisciplinary Trauma-Informed Training in Addressing Campus-Based Sexual Violence
Authors: Selwyn Candice N. , Koon-Magnin Sarah , Dixon Victoria , Rudd Alison
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the impact of a professional development training series among a multidisciplinary team (MDT) during establishment of a trauma-informed sexual assault response and prevention program at a midsized university in the southeastern United States. MDT members included forensic nurses, advocates, counselors, law enforcement officers, and relevant faculty and staff. After completion of a baseline survey assessing attitudes toward trauma-informed care and perceptions of the team climate within the MDT, team members engaged in a trauma-informed care (TIC) professional development training series consisting of (a) 4-hour-long didactic lectures with incorporated group discussion and (2) one 2-hour in-situ simulation-based training exercise. MDT members subsequently completed 3-month and long-term follow-up surveys to assess the immediate and enduring impacts of the training series.

The TIC training series significantly increased MDT members' perceptions of participative safety, task orientation, and support for innovation within the group at the 3-month assessment. No long-term differences were found, likely because of a small sample size and low statistical power.

Intensive TIC MDT professional development at the beginning of a campus-wide sexual assault prevention and response initiative enhances psychological safety within the group, evidenced by increased perceptions of participative safety and support for innovation, and builds team cohesiveness around a shared set of tasks. Within the present MDT, the professional development training series also appeared to facilitate adoption of a shared set of values for accomplishing the team's goal of preventing and responding to sexual assault on campus. Recommendations for MDTs with similar goals are discussed.
Rationale for the Development of a Novel Clinical Grading Scale for Postoperative Facial Nerve Function: Results of a Multidisciplinary International Working Group
Authors: Carlson Matthew L. , Lohse Christine M. , Agazzi Siviero , Babu Seilesh C. , Barker Frederick G. , Barnett Samuel , Bi Wenya Linda , Biggs Nigel , Boahene Kofi D. , Breen Joseph T. , Brown Kevin D. , Cayé-Thomasen Per , Cosetti Maura K. , Deep Nicholas L. , Dey Jacob K. , Dornhoffer James R. , Forner David , Gurgel Richard K. , Hansen Marlan R. , Hunter Jacob B. , Kalamarides Michel , Kim Irene A. , King Andrew T. , Kircher Matthew L. , Lassaletta Luis , Link Michael J. , Lloyd Simon K.W. , Lund-Johansen Morten , Marinelli John P. , Matthies Cordula , Mehta Vikas , Moore Eric J. , Nassiri Ashley M. , Neff Brian A. , Nelson Rick F. , Olson Jeffrey J. , Patel Neil S. , Celda Maria Peris , Plitt Aaron R. , Price Daniel L. , Thomas Roland J. , Sweeney Alex D. , Tasche Kendall K. , Tatagiba Marcos , Tveiten Øystein , Van Gompel Jamie J. , Vrabec Jeffrey T. , Wanna George B. , Weisskopf Peter A.
Published: October 2023

Objective

The objective of the current study was to present the results of an international working group survey identifying perceived limitations of existing facial nerve grading scales to inform the development of a novel grading scale for assessing early postoperative facial paralysis that incorporates regional scoring and is anchored in recovery prognosis and risk of associated complications.

Study Design

Survey.

Setting

A working group of 48 multidisciplinary clinicians with expertise in skull base, cerebellopontine angle, temporal bone, or parotid gland surgery.

Results

House-Brackmann grade is the most widely used system to assess facial nerve function among working group members (81%), although more than half (54%) agreed that the system they currently use does not adequately estimate the risk of associated complications, such as corneal injury, and confidence in interrater and intrarater reliability is generally low. Simplicity was ranked as the most important attribute of a novel postoperative facial nerve grading system to increase the likelihood of adoption, followed by reliability and accuracy. There was widespread consensus (91%) that the eye is the most critical facial region to focus on in the early postoperative setting.

Conclusions

Members were invited to submit proposed grading systems in alignment with the objectives of the working group for subsequent validation. From these data, we plan to develop a simple, clinically anchored, and reproducible staging system with regional scoring for assessing early postoperative facial nerve function after surgery of the skull base, cerebellopontine angle, temporal bone, or parotid gland.
Comparing Speech Recognition Outcomes Between Cochlear Implants and Auditory Brainstem Implants in Patients With NF2-Related Schwannomatosis
Authors: Dornhoffer James R. , Plitt Aaron R. , Lohse Christine M. , Driscoll Colin L.W. , Neff Brian A. , Saoji Aniket A. , Van Gompel Jamie J. , Link Michael J. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: October 2023

Objective

To compare cochlear implant (CI) and auditory brainstem implant (ABI) performance in patients with NF2-related schwannomatosis (NF2)

Study Design

Historical cohort.

Setting

Tertiary academic center.

Patients

A total of 58 devices among 48 patients were studied, including 27 ABIs implanted from 1997 to 2022 and 31 CIs implanted from 2003 to 2022. Three patients had bilateral ABIs, three had bilateral CIs, three had an ABI on one side and a CI on the other, one had a CI that was later replaced with an ipsilateral ABI, and one had an ABI and CI concurrently on the same side.

Interventions

CI or ABI ipsilateral to vestibular schwannoma.

Main Outcome Measures

Open-set speech perception, consonant-nucleus-consonant word scores, and AzBio sentence in quiet scores.

Results

Among all patients, 27 (47%) achieved open-set speech perception, with 35 (61%) daily users at a median of 24 months (interquartile range [IQR], 12–87 mo) after implantation. Comparing outcomes, CIs significantly outperformed ABIs; 24 (77%) CIs achieved open-set speech perception compared with 3 (12%) ABIs, with median consonant-nucleus-consonant and AzBio scores of 31% (IQR, 0–52%) and 57% (IQR, 5–83%), respectively, for CIs, compared with 0% (IQR, 0–0%) and 0% (IQR, 0–0%), respectively, for ABIs. Patients with ABIs were younger at diagnosis and at implantation, had larger tumors, and were more likely to have postoperative facial paresis.

Conclusion

Many patients with NF2-associated vestibular schwannoma achieved auditory benefit with either a CI or an ABI; however, outcomes were significantly better in those patients who were able to receive a CI. When disease and anatomy permit, hearing rehabilitation with a CI should be considered over an ABI in these patients. Tumor management strategies that increase the ability to successfully use CIs should be strongly considered given the high risk of losing bilateral functional acoustic hearing in this population.
Growth of Chinese Medicine in Iran: Past, Present, and Prospects
Authors: Doostmohammadi Ehsan
Published: October 2023

In recent years, the international recognition of traditional Chinese medicine has continuously increased, and that medical practice has gradually become incorporated into the medical systems of many nations. As an important country in the Belt and Road Initiative, Iran has enormous potential for cooperation with China in medical and health care. High-level officials of the two countries attach great importance to cooperation in both areas. Despite the recent rapid development of traditional Chinese medicine in Iran, that medical practice still faces many problems; examples here are the lack of practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine as well as the paucity of comprehensive cooperation among herbal medicine factories, publishing houses, traditional medicine colleges, and universities in the two countries. The present study collected and analyzed materials related to the practice of traditional Chinese medicine in Iran; in that way, it made a deep examination of the current situation, problems, and development prospects regarding traditional Chinese medicine in Iran with the aim of providing ideas and references to promote the international development of that form of medicine. Following an analysis of the development trends of traditional Chinese medicine in Iran in recent years, it became evident that the prospects for such medicine in that country are extensive, and the practice has excellent potential.