bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring nurses’ experiences of recommended patient care: a descriptive phenomenological study
Authors: Faraji Azam , Jalali Amir , Khatony Alireza , Jalali Rostam
Published: January 2024

Background

Caring for recommended patients creates work and emotional challenges for nurses. Nurses are obligated to provide care regardless of the patient’s situation. Therefore, knowing the experiences of nurses in dealing with recommended patients in order to provide quality and effective care can be the basis for increasing patient satisfaction. The present study was conducted aimed to explain nurses’ experiences of caring for recommended patients.

Methods

This was a qualitative study with descriptive phenomenological approach. Participants were 12 nurses working in different wards of hospitals affiliated to Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, selected by purposive sampling method with maximum diversity. The data collected using semi-structured interviews in face-to-face and audio-recorded methods. MAXQDA 2020 software was used for data management. The analysis of the data was done using the Colaizzi’s 7-step method. In order to verify the trustworthiness of the data, Lincoln and Guba criteria were used.

Results

After continuous data analysis, 110 initial codes were extracted. These codes emerged in 18 sub-themes and 6 main themes including: catastrophe, be in decline, be in progress, discrimination, work overload, and poor prognosis.

Conclusions

The results showed information about the presence of recommended patients in the hospital, which can have consequences for patients and nurses. Therefore, it is advised that nurses provide standard care and avoid any kind of discrimination against all patients regardless of whether the patient is recommended or not.
Literacy-related factors and knowledge of patient rights charter: evidence from nurses in selected hospitals in Ghana
Authors: Atta-Doku John Foster , Abekah-Nkrumah Gordon , Nkrumah Jacqueline , Adoma Prince Owusu
Published: January 2024

Background

Systems of across the world have developed and implemented patient rights policies to protect and improve the provider-patient relationship. The Patient Charter of Ghana was developed in 2002 to improve service quality and protect patients’ rights. However, it is not yet known whether those at the frontline of healthcare delivery can read and understand the contents of the charter. While studies have explored the socioeconomic and institutional level factors related to awareness and knowledge of the Patient Rights Charter, there is a lack of literature on its readability and comprehensibility among nurses. This study assesses nurses’ knowledge of the Patient Rights Charter and associated literacy-related factors.

Method

An exploratory cross-sectional design and quantitative methods were used to collect data on knowledge, comprehension, and readability of the Patient Rights Charter. 205 nurses from four district hospitals in the Central Region were recruited using proportional and total enumeration sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and were processed using SPSS (version 26) and an online text readability consensus calculator (version 2.0). Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed, and data were presented using simple frequencies, readability statistics, and regression output.

Results

The results show the charter is written at a higher reading grade level; Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (13.36), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (11.57), and Coleman-Liau Readability Index (14.2). The average reading grade level score was 14. The Gunning Fox Index (15.40) and the Flesch Reading Ease Score (34%) show the patient charter is difficult to read and will require at least 14 years of education to be able to read. 87.3% of nurses were able to read and comprehend the charter. Very few (8.3%) read at frustration level. Nurses’ actual comprehension of the charter was the only significant predictor of knowledge of the charter.

Conclusion

Comprehension of the patient charter is an important predictor of its knowledge. The results emphasize the need to enhance the readability and comprehensibility of the charter for providers. Hospitals can stimulate nurses’ knowledge of the charter by simplifying the charter’s language and deliberately educating nurses on its content.
Construction and evaluation of a cloud follow-up platform for gynecological patients receiving chemotherapy
Authors: Dan Xin , He Ya-Lin , Huang Yan , Ren Jian-Hua , Wang Dan-Qing , Yin Ru-Tie , Tian Ya-Lin
Published: January 2024

Background

Patient follow-up is an essential component of hospital management. In the current information era, the patient follow-up scheme is expected to be replaced by Internet technology. This study constructed a cloud follow-up platform for gynecological chemotherapy patients and assessed its cost-effectiveness and patients’ feedback.

Methods

A total of 2,538 patients were followed up using a cloud follow-up system between January and October 2021. Prior to this, 690 patients were followed manually via telephone calls. Patients’ characteristics, follow-up rate, satisfaction, and session duration were compared between the cloud follow-up and manual follow-up groups. In addition, the read rate of health education materials in the cloud follow-up group was analyzed.

Results

General information, including age, education attainment, cancer stage, and disease category, and follow-up rate (cloud: 6,957/7,614, 91.4%; manual: 1,869/2,070, 90.3%; P = 0.13) did not significantly differ between the two groups. The follow-up satisfaction of the cloud follow-up patients was significantly better than that of the manual follow-up group (cloud: 7,192/7,614, 94.5%; manual: 1,532/2,070, 74.0%; P<0.001). The time spent on the follow-up was approximately 1.2 h for 100 patients in the cloud follow-up group and 10.5 h in the manual follow-up group. Multivariate analysis indicated that the cloud follow-up group had significantly greater follow-up satisfaction (odds ratio: 2.239, 95% CI: 1.237 ~ 5.219). Additionally, the average follow-up duration of the cloud follow-up group decreased by 9.287 h (coefficient: -9.287, 95% CI: -1.439~-0.165). The read rate of health education materials was 72.9% in the cloud follow-up group.

Conclusions

The follow-up effect of the cloud follow-up group was not inferior to that of the manual follow-up group. The cloud follow-up was more effective for prevention and control requirements in the post-epidemic era. Cloud follow-up can save medical resources, improve cost-effectiveness, provide sufficient health education resources for patients, and improve their satisfaction.
Gut and bladder fermentation syndromes: a narrative review
Authors: Tamama Kenichi , Kruckenberg Katherine M. , DiMartini Andrea F.
Published: January 2024

We recently reported the first clinical case of bladder fermentation syndrome (BFS) or urinary auto-brewery syndrome, which caused the patient to fail abstinence monitoring. In BFS, ethanol is generated by Crabtree-positive fermenting yeast Candida glabrata in a patient with poorly controlled diabetes. One crucial characteristic of BFS is the absence of alcoholic intoxication, as the bladder lumen contains transitional epithelium with low ethanol permeability. In contrast, patients with gut fermentation syndrome (GFS) or auto-brewery syndrome can spontaneously develop symptoms of ethanol intoxication even without any alcohol ingestion because of alcoholic fermentation in the gut lumen. In abstinence monitoring, a constellation of laboratory findings with positive urinary glucose and ethanol, negative ethanol metabolites, and the presence of yeast in urinalysis should raise suspicion for BFS, whereas endogenous ethanol production needs to be shown by a carbohydrate challenge test for GFS diagnosis. GFS patients will also likely fail abstinence monitoring because of the positive ethanol blood testing. BFS and GFS are treated by yeast eradication of fermenting microorganisms with antifungals (or antibiotics for bacterial GFS cases) and modification of underlying conditions (diabetes for BFS and gut dysbiosis for GFS). The under-recognition of these rare medical conditions has led to not only harm but also adverse legal consequences for patients, such as driving under the influence (DUI). GFS patients may be at risk of various alcohol-related diseases.
“We’re the very bottom, so it’s going to be hard for you to ‘catch any fish’ around here…” understanding vulnerable Greenlanders’ perspectives on cancer and barriers to screening in Denmark– A qualitative study
Authors: Tatari Camilla Rahr , Andersen Berit , Kirkegaard Pia
Published: January 2024

Background

Cancer is a major global health concern. Unfortunately, Indigenous populations such as Greenlanders living in Denmark, face significant disparities in cancer risk, incidence, diagnosis, care quality, and outcomes. In Denmark, vulnerable Greenlanders face challenges accessing cancer screening. The aim of this study was to explore their perceptions of cancer, barriers to participation in cancer screening, and potential for developing a tailored intervention.

Methods

This qualitative study was based on participant observations and qualitative interviews. The sample comprised 46 participants from four distinct drop-in centres. Of these, 28 were vulnerable Greenlanders (19 women and 9 men), 9 were staff members (6 women and 3 men), and 6 were relatives (4 women and 2 men). The data were analysed through inductive content analysis.

Results

Vulnerable Greenlanders in Denmark believed they were responsible for their own health and were generally satisfied with the healthcare system. However, they found it challenging to manage their own health and many depended on support from others. Fear of cancer and death shaped their attitudes towards screening.

Conclusion

For vulnerable Greenlanders in Denmark participation in cancer screening programmes was positively viewed for most but could be challenging. Different intervention ideas raised by the vulnerable Greenlanders, relatives and staff members could guide the development of strategies to increase participation rates.
Inhibition of mitochondrial cyclophilin D, a downstream target of glycogen synthase kinase 3α, improves sperm motility
Authors: Park Seung Hyun , Gye Myung Chan
Published: January 2024

Background

Cyclophilin D (CypD) negatively regulates ATP production by opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. This study aimed to understand the role of CypD in sperm motility regulation.

Methods

Changes in CypD during sperm capacitation and its interaction with glycogen synthase kinase 3α (GSK3α), a key kinase regulating sperm motility, were examined in mouse spermatozoa. The effects of CypD inhibitor cyclosporin A (CsA) and GSK3 inhibitor 6-bromo-indirubin-3'-oxime (BIO) on sperm motility, p-GSK3α(Ser21), mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and ATP production were examined. The effect of proteasome inhibitor MG115 on the cellular levels of CypD was examined.

Results

In cauda epididymal spermatozoa, GSK3α was found in both cytosolic and mitochondrial fractions whereas CypD was primarily found in the mitochondrial fraction together with ATP synthase F1 subunit alpha (ATP5A), a mitochondrial marker. GSK3α and CypD were co-localized in the sperm midpiece. Interaction between GSK3α and CypD was identified in co-immunoprecipitation. CsA, a CypD inhibitor, significantly increased sperm motility, tyrosine phosphorylation, mPTP closing, MMP, and ATP levels in spermatozoa, suggesting that CypD acts as a negative regulator of sperm function. Under capacitation condition, both GSK3α and CypD were decreased in spermatozoa but ATP5A was not. The GSK3 inhibitor BIO markedly increased p-GSK3α(Ser21) and decreased CypD but significantly increased mPTP closing, MMP, ATP production, and motility of spermatozoa. This suggests that inhibitory phosphorylation of GSK3α is coupled with degradation of CypD, potentiating the mitochondrial function. Degradation of CypD was attenuated by MG115, indicative of involvement of the ubiquitin proteasome system.

Conclusions

During sperm capacitation, CypD act as a downstream target of GSK3α can be degraded via the ubiquitin proteasome system, stimulating mitochondrial function and sperm motility.
Intestinal microbiota and metabolome perturbations in ischemic and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Yusheng , Xie Yandan , Mahara Gehendra , Xiong Yanling , Xiong Yalan , Zheng Qifang , Chen Jianqin , Zhang Wei , Zhou Honghao , Li Qing
Published: January 2024

Background

Various clinical similarities are present in ischemic (ICM) and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM), leading to ambiguity on some occasions. Previous studies have reported that intestinal microbiota appeared dysbiosis in ICM, whether implicating in the IDCM remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the alterations in intestinal microbiota and fecal metabolites in ICM and IDCM.

Methods

ICM (n = 20), IDCM (n = 22), and healthy controls (HC, n = 20) were enrolled in this study. Stool samples were collected for 16S rRNA gene sequencing and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis.

Results

Both ICM and IDCM exhibited reduced alpha diversity and altered microbial community structure compared to HC. At the genus level, nine taxa including Blautia, [Ruminococcus]_torques_group, Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, UCG-002, Corynebacterium, Oceanobacillus, Gracilibacillus, Klebsiella and Citrobacter was specific to ICM, whereas one taxa Alistipes uniquely altered in IDCM. Likewise, these changes were accompanied by significant metabolic differences. Further differential analysis displayed that 18 and 14 specific metabolites uniquely changed in ICM and IDCM, respectively. The heatmap was generated to display the association between genera and metabolites. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis confirmed the predictive value of the distinct microbial-metabolite features in disease status. The results showed that microbial (area under curve, AUC = 0.95) and metabolic signatures (AUC = 0.84) were effective in discriminating ICM from HC. Based on the specific microbial and metabolic features, the patients with IDCM could be separated from HC with an AUC of 0.80 and 0.87, respectively. Furthermore, the gut microbial genus (AUC = 0.88) and metabolite model (AUC = 0.89) were comparable in predicting IDCM from ICM. Especially, the combination of fecal microbial-metabolic features improved the ability to differentiate IDCM from ICM with an AUC of 0.96.

Conclusion

Our findings highlighted the alterations of gut microbiota and metabolites in different types of cardiomyopathies, providing insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms of myocardial diseases. Moreover, multi-omics analysis of fecal samples holds promise as a non-invasive tool for distinguishing disease status.

Graphical Abstract
Exploring the impact of taurine on the biochemical properties of urate oxidase: response surface methodology and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Shahmoradipour Parisa , Zaboli Maryam , Torkzadeh-Mahani Masoud
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the impact of taurine as an additive on the structural and functional stability of urate oxidase. First, the effect of the processing parameters for the stabilization of Urate Oxidase (UOX) using taurine was examined using the response surface methodology (RSM) and the central composite design (CCD) model. Also, the study examines thermodynamic and kinetic parameters as well as structural changes of urate oxidase with and without taurine. Fluorescence intensity changes indicated static quenching during taurine binding. The obtained result indicates that taurine has the ability to preserve the native structural conformation of UOX. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulation is conducted in order to get insights into the alterations in the structure of urate oxidase in the absence and presence of taurine under optimal conditions. The molecular dynamics simulation section investigated the formation of hydrogen bonds (H-bonds) between different components as well as analysis of root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuations (RMSF) and secondary structure. Lower Cα-RMSD and RMSF values indicate greater stabilization of the taurine-treated UOX structure compared to the free enzyme. The results of molecular docking indicate that the binding of taurine to the UOX enzyme through hydrophobic interactions is associated with a negative value for the Gibbs free energy.
A nowcast model to predict outdoor flea activity in real time for the contiguous United States
Authors: Self Stella , Yang Yuan , Walden Heather , Yabsley Michael J. , McMahan Christopher , Herrin Brian H.
Published: January 2024

Background

The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), a parasite commonly found on both dogs and cats, is a competent vector for several zoonotic pathogens, including Dipylidium caninum (tapeworms), Bartonella henselae (responsible for cat scratch disease) and Rickettsia felis (responsible for flea-borne spotted fever). Veterinarians recommend that both cats and dogs be routinely treated with medications to prevent flea infestation. Nevertheless, surveys suggest that nearly one third of pet owners do not routinely administer appropriate preventatives.

Methods

A mathematical model based on weighted averaging over time is developed to predict outdoor flea activity from weather conditions for the contiguous United States. This ‘nowcast’ model can be updated in real time as weather conditions change and serves as an important tool for educating pet owners about the risks of flea-borne disease. We validate our model using Google Trends data for searches for the term ‘fleas.’ This Google Trends data serve as a proxy for true flea activity, as validating the model by collecting fleas over the entire USA is prohibitively costly and time-consuming.

Results

The average correlation (r) between the nowcast outdoor flea activity predictions and the Google Trends data was moderate: 0.65, 0.70, 0.66, 0.71 and 0.63 for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively. However, there was substantial regional variation in performance, with the average correlation in the East South Atlantic states being 0.81 while the average correlation in the Mountain states was only 0.45. The nowcast predictions displayed strong seasonal and geographic patterns, with predicted activity generally being highest in the summer months.

Conclusions

The nowcast model is a valuable tool by which to educate pet owners regarding the risk of fleas and flea-borne disease and the need to routinely administer flea preventatives. While it is ideal for domestic cats and dogs to on flea preventatives year-round, many pets remain vulnerable to flea infestation. Alerting pet owners to the local increased risk of flea activity during certain times of the year may motivate them to administer appropriate routine preventives.

Graphical Abstract
Tetraspanin profiles of serum extracellular vesicles reflect functional limitations and pain perception in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Mustonen Anne-Mari , Palviainen Mari , Säisänen Laura , Karttunen Lauri , Tollis Sylvain , Esrafilian Amir , Reijonen Jusa , Julkunen Petro , Siljander Pia R-M , Kröger Heikki , Mäki Jussi , Arokoski Jari , Nieminen Petteri
Published: January 2024

Background

Emerging evidence suggests that extracellular vesicles (EVs) can play roles in inflammatory processes and joint degradation in primary osteoarthritis (OA), a common age-associated joint disease. EV subpopulations express tetraspanins and platelet markers that may reflect OA pathogenesis. The present study investigated the associations between these EV surface markers and articular cartilage degradation, subjectively and objectively assessed pain, and functional limitations in primary knee OA (KOA).

Methods

Serum EVs were determined by high-sensitivity flow cytometry (large CD61+ EVs) and single particle interferometric reflectance imaging sensor (small CD41+, CD63+, CD81+, and CD9+ EVs) from end-stage KOA patients and controls (n = 8 per group). Knee pain and physical functions were assessed with several health- and pain-related questionnaires, established measurements of physical medicine, and neuromuscular examination. The obtained data were analyzed using supervised and unsupervised univariate and multivariate models.

Results

With the combined dataset of cartilage thickness, knee function, pain, sensation, and EV molecular signatures, we identified highly correlated groups of variables and found several EV markers that were statistically significant predictors of pain, physical limitations, and other aspects of well-being for KOA patients, for instance CD41+/CD63+/CD9+ small EVs associated with the range of motion of the knee, physical performance, and pain sensitivity.

Conclusions

Particular serum EV subpopulations showed clear associations with KOA pain and functional limitations, suggesting that their implications in OA pathophysiology warrant further study.
Comparison of the efficacy of fish oil and probiotic supplementation on glucose and lipid metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Mei , Yang Fan , Feng Qiu , Ou Yanghong , Zhang Jiaxing , Wan Haiyan , Cao Hongyi , Ning Peng
Published: January 2024

Background

Abnormalities in glucose and lipid metabolism contribute to the progression and exacerbation of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Fish oil and probiotics are dietary supplements that have the potential to improve glucose and lipid metabolism. However, their efficacy remains unclear in T2DM patients.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were retrieved to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the efficacy of fish oil or probiotic supplementation in T2DM patients from the database inception to December 13, 2023. Primary outcome indicators encompassed glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and blood lipid profile (triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC). Secondary outcome indicators included inflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor -α (TNF-α) and adipocytokine (including leptin and adiponectin). The R software was used for statistical analysis, and GraphPad Prism was used for figure rendering.

Results

A total of 60 RCTs involving 3845 T2DM patients were included in the analysis. The results showed that the probiotics (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Propionibacterium, etc.) were more effective in reducing HOMA-IR than fish oil (Surca = 0.935). Bifidobacterium demonstrated the highest efficacy in reducing HbA1c levels (Surca = 0.963). Regarding lipid metabolism, fish oil was superior to probiotics in lowering TG and TC levels (Surca values of 0.978 and 0.902, respectively). Furthermore, fish oil outperformed probiotics in reducing TNF-α (Surca = 0.839) and leptin (Surca = 0.712), and increasing adiponectin levels (Surca = 0.742). Node-splitting analysis showed good consistency (P > 0.05 for direct, indirect, and network comparison across various interventions).

Conclusions

In T2DM patients, fish oil was more effective than probiotics in regulating lipid metabolism. Probiotics outperformed fish oil in regulating glucose metabolism particularly; specifically, Bifidobacterium showed higher efficacy in reducing blood glucose.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: The predictive value of BTG1 for the response of newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia to decitabine
Authors: Li Yi , Mao Xia , Li Mengyuan , Li Li , Tong Xiwen , Huang Lifang
Published: January 2024

Background

Decitabine has been widely used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML); however as AML is a heterogeneous disease, not all patients benefit from decitabine. This study aimed to identify markers for predicting the response to decitabine.

Methods

An intersection of in vitro experiments and bioinformatics was performed using a combination of epigenetic and transcriptomic analysis. A tumor-suppressor gene associated with methylation and the response to decitabine was screened. Then the sensitivity and specificity of this marker in predicting the response to decitabine was confirmed in 54 samples from newly diagnosed AML patients treated with decitabine plus IA regimen in a clinical trial (ChiCTR2000037928).

Results

In vitro experiments showed that decitabine caused hypomethylation and upregulation of BTG1, while downregulation of BTG1 attenuated the inhibitory effect of decitabine. In newly diagnosed AML patients who received decitabine plus IA regimen, the predictive value of BTG1 to predict complete remission (CR) was assigned with a sensitivity of 86.7% and a specificity of 100.0% when BTG1 expression was < 0.292 (determined using real-time quantitative PCR), with area under the curve (AUC) = 0.933, P = 0.021. The predictive value of BTG1 to predict measurable residual disease (MRD) negativity was assigned with a sensitivity of 100.0% and a specificity of 80.0% when BTG1 expression was < 0.292 (AUC = 0.892, P = 0.012). Patients were divided into low and high BTG1 expression groups according to a cutoff of 0.292, and the CR rate of the low-expression group was significantly higher than that of the high-expression group (97.5% vs. 50%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Low expression of BTG1 was associated with CR and MRD negativity in newly diagnosed AML patients treated with a decitabine-containing regimen, suggesting that BTG1 is a potential marker for predicting the response to decitabine in newly diagnosed AML.

Clinical trial registration: ChiCTR2000037928.
Diversity of fungal community and quality evaluation of Spatholobus Suberectus Dunn during the process of mildew
Authors: Xia Chunfeng , Zhao Yuchao , Liu Chunlan , Gao Yang
Published: January 2024

Spatholobus suberectus Dunn as a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, which is susceptible to being infected by molds during storage. In order to explore the diversity characteristics of fungal community and the quality evaluation of Spatholobus suberectus Dunn during the process of mildew. The study used high-throughput sequencing technology to detect the diversity characteristics of fungal community, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultraviolet spectrophotometry (UV-spectrophotometry) methods to detect the content of flavonoids, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method to detect the content of Aflatoxins B1 (AFB1). The result showed that the fungi of all samples belonged to 14 phyla, 336 genera, and the dominant fungi at the early stage of mildew was not obvious, while that at middle and late stages of mildew was Aspergillus. The species diversity of fungal community was the highest at the early stage of mildew, while the species richness of fungal community was the highest at the late stage of mildew. The content of AFB1 showed an upward trend, while the content of flavonoids showed a downward trend during the process of mildew. In brief, the diversity of fungal community decreased gradually, and the number of dominant fungi increased gradually, and the quality of Spatholobus suberectus Dunn decreased gradually during the process of mildew.
Development of morpholine ring-bearing halogenated α,β-unsaturated ketones as selective monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors
Authors: Lee Jiseong , Parmbil Saranya Kattil , Pandit Nagendar Kumar , Kumar Sunil , Syed Asad , Elgorban Abdallah M. , Wong Ling Shing , Ranjana  , Kim Hoon , Mathew Bijo
Published: January 2024

Nine morpholine-derived halogenated chalcone derivatives (MHC1-MHC9) were synthesized, and their inhibitory activity against monoamine oxidase (MAO) was evaluated. MHC5 showed the highest inhibitory activity against MAO-B with an IC50 value of 0.065 μM, followed by MHC7 (IC50 = 0.078 μM) and MHC6 (IC50 = 0.082 μM). The para-F substituent MHC4 was also potent (IC50 = 0.095 μM). The selectivity index values of all the compounds were high for MAO-B over MAO-A, and the values for MHC5 and MHC4 were 66.15 and 80.11, respectively. MHC5 and MHC4 were competitive MAO-B inhibitors with Ki values of 0.024 ± 0.00062 and 0.041 ± 0.0028 μM, respectively. In reversibility tests, the changes in residual activity before and after the dialysis of MHC5 and MHC4 were similar to those of safinamide, a reversible MAO-B reference inhibitor. Additionally, molecular docking and dynamic simulations predicted that the lead molecules MHC5 and MHC4 could strongly bind to the MAO-B active site with docking scores of –10.92 ± 0.08 and –10.64 ± 0.14 kcal/mol, respectively. Additionally, MHC4 and MHC5 exhibited favorable ADME features, including blood–brain barrier permeability. The experiments confirmed that MHC5 and MHC4 are reversible and potent selective inhibitors of MAO-B and are promising candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases (human health).
How young people perceive change to occur in family therapy for anorexia nervosa: a qualitative study
Authors: Baudinet Julian , Eisler Ivan , Konstantellou Anna , Simic Mima , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: January 2024

Background

Family therapy for anorexia nervosa (FT-AN) is the first line recommended treatment for child and adolescent anorexia nervosa. Despite evidence of its efficacy, little is understood about the treatment mechanisms. This study aimed to understand how young people who have received FT-AN perceive change to occur across treatment.

Method

Fifteen adolescents (age 12–18 years) completed individual semi-structured interviews online. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Four inter-connected themes describing the process of change during treatment were generated; (1) relationships as the vehicle for change, (2) an awakening, (3) through, not around – no way out, (4) the life beyond.

Conclusions

Current data match relatively closely with theoretical models of FT-AN and emphasise the importance of building trust with all family members, including the young person. Additionally, supporting the family to create a trusting context in which there is a sense that the only way out of the illness is by going through it (rather than avoiding it) is critical. Empirical investigation of each of the described mechanisms is needed.
A voyage of discovering the impacts of teacher immunity and emotion regulation on professional identity, autonomy, and work motivation in Iranian EFL landscape
Authors: Namaziandost Ehsan , Heydarnejad Tahereh , Rezai Afsheen , Javanmard Karamollah
Published: January 2024

The literature has widely recognized the significance of examining the influence of teacher professional identity (TPI), teacher autonomy (TA), and teacher work motivation (TWM) on teacher well-being. However, there is a noticeable gap in the research regarding the role of teacher immunity (TI) and teacher emotion regulation (TER) in TPI, TA, TWM among English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers. In light of this gap, the present study aimed to investigate the association between TI and TER with TPI, TA, and TWM of EFL teachers. A sample of 433 EFL teachers completed the Language Teacher Immunity Instrument, the Language Teacher Emotion Regulation Inventory, the Teacher Professional Identity Scale, the Teacher Autonomy Questionnaire, and the Multidimensional Work Motivation Scale. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling were conducted to analyze the data. Findings disclosed that TI and TER were strong predictor of TPI, TA, and TWM among the EFL teachers. The study concludes by offering some pedagogical implications for different stakeholders and discussing potential areas of research that can be developed based on the findings.
A rare non-gadolinium enhancing sarcoma brain metastasis with microenvironment dominated by tumor-associated macrophages
Authors: Rogawski David , Wheeler Joshua , Nie Esther , Zhu William , Villanueva Eleanor , Coffey Gwen , Ma Qian , Ganjoo Kristen , Fischbein Nancy , Iv Michael , Vogel Hannes , Nagpal Seema
Published: January 2024

Brain metastases occur in 1% of sarcoma cases and are associated with a median overall survival of 6 months. We report a rare case of a brain metastasis with unique radiologic and histopathologic features in a patient with low grade fibromyxoid sarcoma (LGFMS) previously treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. The lone metastasis progressed in the midbrain tegmentum over 15 months as a non-enhancing, T2-hyperintense lesion with peripheral diffusion restriction, mimicking a demyelinating lesion. Histopathology of the lesion at autopsy revealed a rich infiltrate of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) with highest density at the leading edge of the metastasis, whereas there was a paucity of lymphocytes, suggestive of an immunologically cold environment. Given the important immunosuppressive and tumor-promoting functions of TAMs in gliomas and carcinoma/melanoma brain metastases, this unusual case provides an interesting example of a dense TAM infiltrate in a much rarer sarcoma brain metastasis.
Curve of Spee modification in different vertical skeletal patterns after clear aligner therapy: a 3D set-up retrospective study
Authors: Ciavarella Domenico , Fanelli Carlotta , Suriano Carmela , Campobasso Alessandra , Lorusso Mauro , Ferrara Donatella , Maci Marta , Esposito Rosa , Tepedino Michele
Published: January 2024

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate: (1) changes in the curve of Spee (COS) after clear aligner therapy and (2) whether such changes correlated with the patient’s skeletal patterns.

Materials and methods

Three-dimensional mandibular models of 106 patients (47 males and 59 females; mean age 22.3 SD ± 3.4 years) treated with clear aligners were retrospectively analysed. The perpendicular distance between the occlusal reference plane and the buccal cusp tip of each lateral tooth was measured. Five angular cephalometric measurements (PP-MP, PP-OP, OP-MP, AFH, and PFH) were performed and correlated with the T1–T0 difference in linear distances. The patients were divided into three groups according to facial divergence. Variance analysis with Tukey post hoc correction was performed to evaluate the differences among groups.

Results

The one-way ANOVA test showed a statistically significant difference for all analysed variables, except for the change in the distance of the second molar from the occlusal reference plane. Tukey’s HSD test showed the following differences: In normodivergents, the T1–T0 difference in the distance of the first molar from the occlusal plane was 1 mm greater than that observed in the hyperdivergent group (p < 0.05); in the normodivergent group, the T1–T0 difference in the distance of the second premolar from the occlusal plane was 1.23 mm greater than that observed in the hyperdivergent group (p < 0.05), while in the hypodivergent group, it was 1.08 mm greater than in the hyperdivergent group (p < 0.05); finally, in normodivergents, the T1–T0 difference in the distance of the first premolar from the occlusal plane was 0.97 mm greater than that observed in the hyperdivergent group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Treatment with aligners did not lead to a clinically significant change in COS depth. However, when dividing the sample into groups based on craniofacial divergence, COS depth change differed significantly between the three groups.
A taxonomic revision of the genus Angelica (Apiaceae) in Taiwan with a new species A. aliensis
Authors: Wang Jenn-Che , Chen Hung-Hsin , Hsu Tsai-Wen , Hung Kuo-Hsiang , Huang Chi-Chun
Published: January 2024

Background

Angelica L. sensu lato is a taxonomically complex genus, and many studies have utilized morphological and molecular features to resolve its classification issues. In Taiwan, there are six taxa within Angelica, and their taxonomic treatments have been a subject of controversy. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis incorporating morphological and molecular (cpDNA and nrDNA) characteristics to revise the taxonomic treatments of Angelica in Taiwan.

Results

As a result of our research, we have revised the classification between A. dahurica var. formosana and A. pubescens and merged two varieties of A. morrisonicola into a single taxon. A new taxon, A. aliensis, has been identified and found to share a close relationship with A. tarokoensis. Based on the morphological and molecular characteristics data, it has been determined that the former three taxa should be grouped into the Eurasian Angelica clade, while the remaining four taxa should belong to the littoral Angelica clade. Furthermore, Angelica species in Taiwan distributed at higher altitudes displayed higher genetic diversity, implying that the central mountain range of Taiwan serves as a significant reservoir of plant biodiversity. Genetic drift, such as bottlenecks, has been identified as a potential factor leading to the fixation or reduction of genetic diversity of populations in most Angelica species. We provide key to taxa, synopsis, phenology, and distribution for each taxon of Taiwan.

Conclusions

Our comprehensive analysis of morphological and molecular features has shed light on the taxonomic complexities within Angelica in Taiwan, resolving taxonomic issues and providing valuable insights into the phylogenetic relationships of Angelica in Taiwan.
Enhanced lignin degradation by Irpex lacteus through expanded sterilization further improved the fermentation quality and microbial community during the silage preservation process
Authors: Cao Xiaohui , Cai Rui , Zuo Sasa , Niu Dongze , Yang Fuyu , Xu Chuncheng
Published: January 2024

Traditional autoclaving, slow degradation rate and preservation of biomass treated by fungi are the main factors restricting biological treatment. In our previous studies, strains with high efficiency and selective lignin degradation ability were obtained. To further solve the limiting factors of biological treatment, this paper proposed a composite treatment technology, which could replace autoclaves for fungal treatment and improve the preservation and utilization of fungal-pretreated straw. The autoclaved and expanded buckwheat straw were, respectively, degraded by Irpex lacteus for 14 days (CIL, EIL), followed by ensiling of raw materials (CK) and biodegraded straw of CIL and EIL samples with Lactobacillus plantarum for different days, respectively (CP, CIP, EIP). An expansion led to lactic acid bacteria, mold, and yeast of the samples below the detection line, and aerobic bacteria was significantly reduced, indicating a positive sterilization effect. Expansion before I. lacteus significantly enhanced lignin selective degradation by about 6%, and the absolute content of natural detergent solute was about 5% higher than that of the CIL. Moreover, EIL decreased pH by producing higher organic acids. The combination treatment created favorable conditions for ensiling. During ensiling, EIP silage produced high lactic acid about 26.83 g/kg DM and the highest acetic acid about 22.35 g/kg DM, and the pH value could be stable at 4.50. Expansion before I. lacteus optimized the microbial community for ensiling, resulting in EIP silage co-dominated by Lactobacillus, Pediococcus and Weissella, whereas only Lactobacillus was always dominant in CP and CIP silage. Clavispora gradually replaced Irpex in EIP silage, which potentially promoted lactic acid bacteria growth and acetic acid production. In vitro gas production (IVGP) in EIL was increased by 30% relative to CK and was higher than 24% in CIL. The role of expansion was more significant after ensiling, the IVGP in EIP was increased by 22% relative to CP, while that in CIP silage was only increased by 9%. Silage of fungal-treated samples reduced methane emissions by 28% to 31%. The study demonstrated that expansion provides advantages for fungal colonization and delignification, and further improves the microbial community and fermentation quality for silage, enhancing the nutrition and utilization value. This has practical application value for scaling up biological treatment and preserving the fungal-treated lignocellulose.

Graphical Abstract
Insertion of synthetic lesions on patient data: a method for evaluating clinical performance differences between PET systems
Authors: Maronnier Quentin , Robaine Nesrine , Chaltiel Léonor , Dierickx Lawrence O. , Cassou-Mounat Thibaut , Terroir Marie , Vija Lavinia , Vallot Delphine , Brillouet Séverine , Lamesa Chloé , Filleron Thomas , Caselles Olivier , Courbon Frédéric
Published: January 2024

Background

Performance assessment of positron emission tomography (PET) scanners is crucial to guide clinical practice with efficiency. We have already introduced and experimentally evaluated a simulation method allowing the creation of a controlled ground truth for system performance assessment. In the current study, the goal was to validate the method using patient data and demonstrate its relevance to assess PET performances accuracy in clinical conditions.

Methods

Twenty-four patients were recruited and sorted into two groups according to their body mass index (BMI). They were administered with a single dose of 2 MBq/kg 18F-FDG and scanned using clinical protocols consecutively on two PET systems: the Discovery-IQ (DIQ) and the Discovery-MI (DMI). For each BMI group, sixty synthetic lesions were dispatched in three subgroups and inserted at relevant anatomical locations. Insertion of synthetic lesions (ISL) was performed at the same location into the two consecutive exams. Two nuclear medicine physicians evaluated individually and blindly the images by qualitatively and semi-quantitatively reporting each detected lesion and agreed on a consensus. We assessed the inter-system detection rates of synthetic lesions and compared it to an initial estimate of at least 1.7 more targets detected on the DMI and the detection rates of natural lesions. We determined the inter-reader variability, evaluated according to the inter-observer agreement (IOA). Adequate inter-reader variability was found for IOA above 80%. Differences in standardized uptake value (SUV) metrics were also studied.

Results

In the BMI ≤ 25 group, the relative true positive rate (RTPR) for synthetic and natural lesions was 1.79 and 1.83, respectively. In the BMI > 25 group, the RTPR for synthetic and natural lesions was 2.03 and 2.27, respectively. For each BMI group, the detection rate using ISL was consistent to our estimate and with the detection rate measured on natural lesions. IOA above 80% was verified for any scenario. SUV metrics showed a good agreement between synthetic and natural lesions.

Conclusions

ISL proved relevant to evaluate performance differences between PET scanners. Using these synthetically modified clinical images, we can produce a controlled ground truth in a realistic anatomical model and exploit the potential of PET scanner for clinical purposes.
Prevalence and genetic evolution of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in commercial fattening pig farms in China
Authors: Li Chao , Zhao Jing , Li Wansheng , Xu Hu , Gong Bangjun , Sun Qi , Guo Zhenyang , Li Jinhao , Xiang Lirun , Tang Yan-dong , Leng Chaoliang , Wang Qian , Peng Jinmei , Zhou Guohui , Liu Huairan , An Tongqing , Cai Xuehui , Tian Zhi-Jun , Zhang Hongliang
Published: January 2024

Background

To investigate the prevalence and evolution of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) at commercial fattening pig farms, a total of 1397 clinical samples were collected from a single fattening cycle at seven pig farms in five provinces of China from 2020 to 2021.

Results

The RT‒PCR results revealed that PRRSV was present on all seven farms, and the percentage of PRRSV-positive individuals was 17.54–53.33%. A total of 344 partial NSP2 gene sequences and 334 complete ORF5 gene sequences were obtained from the positive samples. The statistical results showed that PRRSV-2 was present on all seven commercial fattening farms, and PRRSV-1 was present on only one commercial fattening farm. A total of six PRRSV-2 subtypes were detected, and five of the seven farms had two or more PRRSV-2 subtypes. L1.8 (L1C) PRRSV was the dominant epidemic strain on five of the seven pig farms. Sequence analysis of L1.8 (L1C) PRRSV from different commercial fattening pig farms revealed that its consistency across farms varied substantially. The amino acid alignment results demonstrated that there were 131 aa discontinuous deletions in NSP2 between different L1.8 (L1C) PRRSV strains and that the GP5 mutation in L1.8 (L1C) PRRSV was mainly concentrated in the peptide signal region and T-cell epitopes. Selection pressure analysis of GP5 revealed that the use of the PRRSV MLV vaccine had no significant episodic diversifying effect on L1.8 (L1C) PRRSV.

Conclusion

PRRSV infection is common at commercial fattening pig farms in China, and the percentage of positive individuals is high. There are multiple PRRSV subtypes of infection at commercial fattening pig farms in China. L1.8 (L1C) is the main circulating PRRSV strain on commercial fattening pig farms. L1.8 (L1C) PRRSV detected at different commercial fattening pig farms exhibited substantial differences in consistency but similar molecular characteristics. The pressure on the GP5 of L1.8 (L1C) PRRSV may not be directly related to the use of the vaccines.
A maintenance hemodialysis patient complicated with hypogammaglobulinemia presenting typical COVID-19 pneumonia CT findings: a case report
Authors: Miyazaki Ryoichi , Miyagi Kyoko , Hirayama Sun
Published: January 2024

Background

With the widespread use of the vaccine and the predominance of the Omicron strain, the number of patients presenting with typical coronavirus-infection disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia on computed tomography (CT) has decreased dramatically. This has also been true for hemodialysis patients.

Case report

A 72-year-old female maintenance hemodialysis patient with hypogammaglobulinemia was diagnosed with COVID-19 based on a nasopharyngeal swab severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. She had previously received five doses of COVID-19 BNT162b2 vaccine. Initially, the patient had only a slight fever, mild sore throat and sputum, and molnupiravir 1600 mg/day was administered for 5 days. No high fever was observed during that period. On day 11 after diagnosis, bloody sputum was observed, and by day 13 the cough had worsened and her CRP level had increased to 13.10 mg/dL. Chest CT performed on the same day showed multiple subpleural ground-glass-like shadows typical of COVID-19 pneumonia predominantly in the right lung. She was immediately admitted to the hospital, where her temperature rose to 38.4 °C. Intravenous remdesivir 100 mg/day was administered for 5 days. This resolved her fever and the bloody sputum disappeared. She was discharged from the hospital without sequelae on the 21st day after diagnosis.

Conclusion

We experienced a case of typical COVID-19 pneumonia in a patient on maintenance hemodialysis who had received five doses of COVID-19 BNT162b2 vaccine. There was a flare-up of symptoms after administration of molnupiravir, suggesting that a hypogammaglobulinemia complication was involved. This highlights the need for attention to its potential transition to severe disease when patients with hypogammaglobulinemia or other highly immunocompromised conditions are affected by COVID-19.