bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sirtuins in kidney diseases: potential mechanism and therapeutic targets
Authors: Jin Qi , Ma Fang , Liu Tongtong , Yang Liping , Mao Huimin , Wang Yuyang , Peng Liang , Li Ping , Zhan Yongli
Published: February 2024

Sirtuins, which are NAD+-dependent class III histone deacetylases, are involved in various biological processes, including DNA damage repair, immune inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial homeostasis, autophagy, and apoptosis. Sirtuins are essential regulators of cellular function and organismal health. Increasing evidence suggests that the development of age-related diseases, including kidney diseases, is associated with aberrant expression of sirtuins, and that regulation of sirtuins expression and activity can effectively improve kidney function and delay the progression of kidney disease. In this review, we summarise current studies highlighting the role of sirtuins in renal diseases. First, we discuss sirtuin family members and their main mechanisms of action. We then outline the possible roles of sirtuins in various cell types in kidney diseases. Finally, we summarise the compounds that activate or inhibit sirtuin activity and that consequently ameliorate renal diseases. In conclusion, targeted modulation of sirtuins is a potential therapeutic strategy for kidney diseases.
NPFs-mediated actin cytoskeleton: a new viewpoint on autophagy regulation
Authors: Dong Yuan , Quan Chengshi
Published: February 2024

Macroautophagy/autophagy is a lysosome-dependent catabolic process induced by various cellular stress conditions, maintaining the homeostasis of cells, tissues and organs. Autophagy is a series of membrane-related events involving multiple autophagy-related (ATG) proteins. Most studies to date have focused on various signaling pathways affecting ATG proteins to control autophagy. However, mounting evidence reveals that the actin cytoskeleton acts on autophagy-associated membranes to regulate different events of autophagy. The actin cytoskeleton assists in vesicle formation and provides the mechanical forces for cellular activities that involve membrane deformation. Although the interaction between the actin cytoskeleton and membrane makes the role of actin in autophagy recognized, how the actin cytoskeleton is recruited and assembles on membranes during autophagy needs to be detailed. Nucleation-promoting factors (NPFs) activate the Arp2/3 complex to produce actin cytoskeleton. In this review, we summarize the important roles of the actin cytoskeleton in autophagy regulation and focus on the effect of NPFs on actin cytoskeleton assembly during autophagy, providing new insights into the occurrence and regulatory mechanisms of autophagy.
Endogenous feline leukemia virus long terminal repeat integration site diversity is highly variable in related and unrelated domestic cats
Authors: Chiu Elliott S. , McDonald Coby A. , Gagne Roderick B. , Dunkleberger Henry , Moxcey Matthew , VandeWoude Sue
Published: February 2024

Endogenous retroviruses (ERV) are indicators of vertebrate evolutionary history and play important roles as homeostatic regulators. ERV long terminal repeat (LTR) elements may act as cis-activating promoters or trans-activating enhancer elements modifying gene transcription distant from LTR insertion sites. We previously documented that endogenous feline leukemia virus (FeLV)-LTR copy number variation in individual cats tracks inversely with susceptibility to virulent FeLV disease. To evaluate FeLV-LTR insertion characteristics, we assessed enFeLV-LTR integration site diversity in 20 cats from three genetically distinct populations using a baited linker-mediated PCR approach. We documented 765 individual integration sites unequally represented among individuals. Only three LTR integration sites were shared among all individuals, while 412 sites were unique to a single individual. When primary fibroblast cultures were challenged with exogenous FeLV, we found significantly increased expression of both exogenous and endogenous FeLV orthologs, supporting previous findings of potential exFeLV-enFeLV interactions; however, viral challenge did not elicit transcriptional changes in genes associated with the vast majority of integration sites. This study assesses FeLV-LTR integration sites in individual animals, providing unique transposome genotypes. Further, we document substantial individual variation in LTR integration site locations, even in a highly inbred population, and provide a framework for understanding potential endogenous retroviral element position influence on host gene transcription.
Novel KMT2B gene mutation in MUC4 positive low-grade fibromyxoid sarcoma
Authors: Zhang Liying , Luo Luqiao , Liu Chao , Li Zhi
Published: February 2024

Background

Low-grade Fibromyxoid Sarcoma(LGFM)is a rare fibrosarcoma, which mainly occurs in young people and is mostly seen in the trunk and limbs. The tumor is usually FUS-CREB3L2 fusion caused by t(7;16)(q32-34;p11)chromosome translocation, and rarely FUS-CREB3L1 and EWSR1-CREB3L1 fusion. MUC4 diffuse strong positive can be used as a specific index of LGFM. LGFM is similar to Sclerosing Epithelioid Fibrosarcoma(SEF) and may have the same origin.

Case presentation

We report a case of LGFM in the chest wall. A female who is 59 years old. In 2016, CT showed dense nodule shadow and focal thickening of the left pleura, the patient underwent surgery, Pathological report that low to moderate malignant fibrosarcoma(fibromyxoid type). The CT re-examination in 2021 showed that the tumors on the left chest wall were significantly larger than before. Pathological examination showed the disease is composed of alternating collagen like and mucinous areas. Under high-power microscope, the tumor cells are consistent in shape, spindle or short spindle, and the tumor cells are arranged in bundles. In local areas, the density of tumor cells is significantly increased, mixed with collagen fibers, and small focal SEF appear. The result of immunohistochemistry showed that SMA, Desmin, CD34, STAT6, S100, SOX10, HMB45 and Melan A were negative, EMA was weakly positive, MUC4 was diffuse and strongly positive, and Ki67 index was low (3%).

Conclusion

Sequencing results showed that MET, EGFR, KMT2B and RET gene were mutated in LGFM, and KMT2B gene had cancer promoting effect, but there was no literature report in LGFM, which may be of certain significance for the diagnosis and treatment of LGFM.
Bleeding assessment in a large cohort of patients with Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Gooijer Koert , Heidsieck Gabriëla , Harsevoort Arjan , Bout Daniëlle , Janus Guus , Franken Anton
Published: February 2024

Background

Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is characterised by bone fragility. Among several features, easy bruising and multiple case reports on haemorrhagic events have been reported. This paper describes the diverse manifestations of bleeding and bruising in a large cohort of 328 OI patients. The aim of this study is to provide insight in the diverse aspects and therapeutic considerations of bleedings in OI.

Methods

This descriptive cohort study was conducted at the National Expert Center for adults with OI in the Netherlands. Bleeding was assessed by the validated self-bleeding assessment tool (Self-BAT) The tool was distributed among 328 adults with different clinically confirmed types of OI.

Results

195 of 328 invited patients (completion rate 60%) with OI type 1 (n = 144), OI type 3 (n = 17) and OI type 4 (n = 34), aged between 18 and 82 years, completed the tool. Self-BAT scores were above the normal range in 42% of all patients. For males Self-BAT scores were increased in 37% with a mean score of 3.7, ranged between 0 and 18. For females the Self-BAT scores were increased in 44% with a mean of 5.4 and a range of 0–24. No statistical differences in OI subtypes were found.

Conclusions

Bleeding tendency appears to be a relevant complication in OI patients as this study confirms the presumption of bleeding tendency. There are specific recommendations to clinicians who treat OI patients to consider an assessment of bleeding tendency and use potential interventions to reduce haemorrhagic complications and improve quality of life.
IGF-1R mediates crosstalk between nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells and osteoclasts and promotes tumor bone metastasis
Authors: Yang Kaifan , Hu Yanjun , Feng Yuanyuan , Li Kaiqun , Zhu Ziyan , Liu Shuyi , Lin Yanling , Yu Bin
Published: February 2024

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) poses a significant health burden in specific regions of Asia, and some of NPC patients have bone metastases at the time of initial diagnosis. Bone metastasis can cause pathologic fractures and pain, reducing patients' quality of life, and is associated with worse survival. This study aims to unravel the complex role of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) in NPC bone metastasis, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets.

Methods

We assessed IGF-1R expression in NPC cells and explored its correlation with bone metastasis. Experiments investigated the impact of osteoclast-secreted IGF-1 on the IGF-1R/AKT/S6 pathway in promoting NPC cell proliferation within the bone marrow. Additionally, the reciprocal influence of tumor-secreted Granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) on osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption was examined. The effects of IGF-1 neutralizing antibody, IGF-1R specific inhibitor (NVP-AEW541) and mTORC inhibitor (rapamycin) on nasopharyngeal carcinoma bone metastasis were also explored in animal experiments.

Results

Elevated IGF-1R expression in NPC cells correlated with an increased tendency for bone metastasis. IGF-1, secreted by osteoclasts, activated the IGF-1R/AKT/S6 pathway, promoting NPC cell proliferation in the bone marrow. Tumor-secreted GM-CSF further stimulated osteoclast differentiation, exacerbating bone resorption. The IGF-1 neutralizing antibody, NVP-AEW541 and rapamycin were respectively effective in slowing down the rate of bone metastasis and reducing bone destruction.

Conclusion

The intricate interplay among IGF-1R, IGF-1, and GM-CSF highlights potential therapeutic targets for precise control of NPC bone metastasis, providing valuable insights for developing targeted interventions.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound to predict malignant upgrading of atypical ductal hyperplasia
Authors: Li Jun Kang , Jin Zhi Ying , Xu Yong Jie , Fu Nai Qin , Jiang Ying , Li Shi Yu , Niu Rui Lan , Liu Gang , Wang Zhi Li
Published: February 2024

Background

A malignancy might be found at surgery in cases of atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) diagnosed via US-guided core needle biopsy (CNB). The objective of this study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in predicting ADH diagnosed by US-guided CNB that was upgraded to malignancy after surgery.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 110 CNB-diagnosed ADH lesions in 109 consecutive women who underwent US, CEUS, and surgery between June 2018 and June 2023 were included. CEUS was incorporated into US BI-RADS and yielded a CEUS-adjusted BI-RADS. The diagnostic performance of US BI-RADS and CEUS-adjusted BI-RADS for ADH were analyzed and compared.

Results

The mean age of the 109 women was 49.7 years ± 11.6 (SD). The upgrade rate of ADH at CNB was 48.2% (53 of 110). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of CEUS for identification of malignant upgrading were 96.2%, 66.7%,72.9%, and 95.0%, respectively, based on BI-RADS category 4B threshold. The two false-negative cases were low-grade ductal carcinoma in situ. Compared with the US, CEUS-adjusted BI-RADS had better specificity for lesions smaller than 2 cm (76.7% vs. 96.7%, P = 0.031). After CEUS, 16 (10 malignant and 6 nonmalignant) of the 45 original US BI-RADS category 4A lesions were up-classified to BI-RADS 4B, and 3 (1 malignant and 2 nonmalignant) of the 41 original US BI-RADS category 4B lesions were down-classified to BI-RADS 4A.

Conclusions

CEUS is helpful in predicting malignant upgrading of ADH, especially for lesions smaller than 2 cm and those classified as BI-RADS 4A and 4B on ultrasound.
Long-term safety of Ixekizumab in adults with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, or axial spondyloarthritis: a post-hoc analysis of final safety data from 25 randomized clinical trials
Authors: Deodhar Atul , Blauvelt Andrew , Lebwohl Mark , Feely Meghan , Kronbergs Andris , Eberhart Nadezhda , Zhu Danting , Inman Elsa , Grace Elsie , Holzkaemper Thorsten , Rahman Proton , Marzo-Ortega Helena , Papp Kim A. , Merola Joseph F. , Gottlieb Alice B. , Schwartzman Sergio
Published: February 2024

Background

We report long-term, end-of-study program safety outcomes from 25 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in adult patients with psoriasis (PsO), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), or axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) [including ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA)] who received ≥ 1 dose of Ixekizumab (IXE) over 5 years (PsO) or up to 3 years (PsA, axSpA).

Methods

This integrated safety analysis consists of data from patients who received any dose of IXE, across 25 RCTs (17 PsO, 4 PsA, 4 axSpA). Rates of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), serious adverse events (SAEs) and selected adverse events (AEs) of interest were analyzed for all pooled studies by years of therapy and overall, through March 2022. Results were reported as exposure-adjusted incidence rates (IRs) per 100 patient-years (PY) overall and at successive year intervals.

Results

Six thousand eight hundred ninety two adult patients with PsO, 1401 with PsA, and 932 with axSpA (including AS and nr-axSpA), with a cumulative IXE exposure of 22,371.1 PY were included. The most commonly reported TEAE across indications was nasopharyngitis (IRs per 100 PY: 8.8 (PsO), 9.0 (PsA), 8.4 (axSpA)). SAEs were reported by 969 patients with PsO (IR 5.4), 134 patients with PsA (IR 6.0), and 101 patients with axSpA (IR 4.8). Forty-five deaths were reported (PsO, n = 36, IR 0.2; PsA, n = 6, IR 0.3; axSpA, n = 3, IR 0.1). TEAEs did not increase during IXE exposure: IRs per 100 PY, PsO: 88.9 to 63.2 (year 0–1 to 4–5), PsA: 87 to 67.3 (year 0–1 to 2–3), axSpA: 82.1 to 55.4 (year 0–1 to >  = 2). IRs per 100 PY of discontinuation from IXE due to AE were 2.9 (PsO), 5.1 (PsA), and 3.1 (axSpA). IRs per 100 PY of injection site reactions were 5.9 (PsO), 11.6 (PsA) and 7.4 (axSpA); Candida: 1.9 (PsO), 2.0 (PsA), and 1.2 (axSpA); depression, major adverse cerebro-cardiovascular events and malignancies: ≤ 1.6 across all indications. Adjudicated IRs per 100 PY of inflammatory bowel disease were ≤ 0.8 across indications (0.1 [PsO]; 0.1 [PsA]; 0.8 [axSpA]).

Conclusions

In this integrated safety analysis, consisting of over 22,000 PY of exposure, the long-term safety profile of IXE was found to be consistent with previous, earlier reports, with no new safety signals identified.

Trial registration

NCT registration numbers for RCTs included in this integrated analysis can be found in Additional File 1.
Relationship between maximal oxygen uptake, within-set fatigue and between-set recovery during resistance exercise in resistance-trained men and women
Authors: Lundberg Tommy R. , Larsson Gustav , Alstermark Rasmus , Mandić Mirko , Fernandez-Gonzalo Rodrigo
Published: February 2024

Background

The primary aim of this study was to examine the relationship between maximal oxygen update (V̇O2max) and within-set fatigue and between-set recovery during resistance exercise in men and women.

Methods

We examined the relationship between V̇O2max and various indices of fatigue and recovery during parallel squats (3 sets, 90 s rest, 70% of 1RM to failure) and isokinetic knee extensions (3 × 10 maximal repetitions at 60 deg/s, 45 s rest) in 28 (age 27.0 ± 3.6 years) resistance-trained subjects (14 men and 14 women). We also examined whether there were sex differences in within-set fatigue and between-set recovery.

Results

V̇O2max was weakly related to recovery and fatigue in both men and women (range of P-values for V̇O2max as a covariate; 0.312–0.998, range of R-values, 0.005–0.604). There were no differences between the sexes in fatigue within a set for the squat, but men showed less within-set fatigue than women in the first set of the isokinetic knee extension exercise (~ 8% torque loss difference, main effect of sex P = 0.034). Regarding recovery between sets, men showed greater relative peak power (P = 0.016) and peak torque (P = 0.034) loss between sets in both exercises, respectively, compared to women. Women also tended to complete more repetitions than men (main effect of sex, P = 0.057). Loss of peak torque between sets in knee extension was evident in both absolute and relative (%) values in men but not in women.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that aerobic capacity is weakly associated with within-set fatigue and between-set recovery in resistance training in both men and women. Women and men show comparable levels of within-set fatigue in the multi-joint squat, but women show more within-set fatigue during the single-joint isokinetic knee extension compared with men. In contrast, women recover better than men between sets in both exercises.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia: a case report
Authors: Gri Jacqueline , Jain Varun
Published: February 2024

Introduction and importance

Pneumocystis jirovecii (PJP) pneumonia is a serious life-threatening condition in immunocompromised individuals and is often associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) + patients. We describe a case of PJP pneumonia which provided a diagnostic challenge in a patient who presented with no known risk factors leading to a delay in initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy.

Case presentation

A 71-year-old previously healthy white/Caucasian male presented with subacute hypoxic respiratory failure due to multifocal pneumonia with diffuse bilateral ground glass opacities with consolidations despite prior treatment with antibiotics and steroids. He was admitted and started on intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics but continued to deteriorate, eventually requiring intubation and transfer to the ICU. Bronchoscopy revealed PJP and treatment was initiated, but the patient developed refractory shock and multiorgan failure, and ultimately died. It was later discovered that he was HIV-1 positive.

Clinical discussion

PJP, as a potential cause of his presentation, was not considered given that our patient lacked any overt risk factors for PJP pneumonia. He continued to worsen despite broad spectrum antibiotic therapy and hence bronchoscopy was pursued. His clinical profile, in hindsight, was suspicious for PJP pneumonia and early PJP-directed antibiotic therapy may have prevented a fatal outcome, as in this case. There was an element of cognitive bias across multiple providers which may have contributed to the delay in treatment despite his rapid clinical decline while on conventional pneumonia treatment protocol. His diagnosis was later evident when his BAL-DFA grew PJP in addition to his low levels of CD4 and CD8 cells. He was found to be HIV-1 positive five days after his death; there was a delay in this diagnosis since all positive HIV tests from the hospital are reported as ‘pending’ until the presumptive positive sample goes to the Connecticut Department of Public Health State laboratory for the confirmatory test. PJP-targeted therapies were initiated later in our patient’s hospital course when the infection had progressed to refractory septic shock with multiorgan failure and eventual death.

Conclusion

PJP pneumonia is a fatal disease if not recognized early in the course of illness, and the patient usually undergoes multiple antibiotic regimens before they are diagnosed and receive appropriate clinical care. The gold standard of diagnostic testing for PJP is by obtaining bronchial washings through a flexible bronchoscopy and the turnaround time for such results may take a few days to result. A significant proportion of patients may not have any overt risk factors of immunosuppression and early empiric treatment for PJP may be clinically appropriate as the delay in diagnosis may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality risk.
Abnormal protein post-translational modifications induces aggregation and abnormal deposition of protein, mediating neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Li Wei , Li Hong-Lian , Wang Jian-Zhi , Liu Rong , Wang Xiaochuan
Published: February 2024

Protein post-translational modifications (PPTMs) refer to a series of chemical modifications that occur after the synthesis of protein. Proteins undergo different modifications such as phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, and so on. These modifications can alter the protein’s structure, function, and interaction, thereby regulating its biological activity. In neurodegenerative diseases, several proteins undergo abnormal post-translational modifications, which leads to aggregation and abnormal deposition of protein, thus resulting in neuronal death and related diseases. For example, the main pathological features of Alzheimer’s disease are the aggregation of beta-amyloid protein and abnormal phosphorylation of tau protein. The abnormal ubiquitination and loss of α-synuclein are related to the onset of Parkinson’s disease. Other neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and so on are also connected with abnormal PPTMs. Therefore, studying the abnormal PPTMs in neurodegenerative diseases is critical for understanding the mechanism of these diseases and the development of significant therapeutic strategies. This work reviews the implications of PPTMs in neurodegenerative diseases and discusses the relevant therapeutic strategies.
Estimation of the effect of vaccination in critically ill COVID-19 patients, analysis using propensity score matching
Authors: Havaldar Amarja Ashok , Selvam Sumithra
Published: February 2024

Background

Vaccination helped in reducing mortality and disease severity due to COVID-19. Some patients can develop breakthrough infections. The effect of vaccination in critically ill patients admitted with breakthrough infections is not well studied. We designed a study to estimate the effect of vaccination on ICU mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients by using propensity score matching.

Methods

We included patients from 15th June 2020 to 31st December 2021. Inclusion criteria were unvaccinated and vaccinated COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The institutional ethics committee approval was obtained (institutional ethics committee, IEC 08/2023, Clinical trial registry, India CTRI/2023/01/049142). The primary outcome was ICU mortality. The secondary outcomes were the length of ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. We used multivariable logistic regression (MLR) and propensity score matching (PSM) for the statistical analysis.

Results

Total of 667 patients (79.31%) were unvaccinated and 174 (20.68%) vaccinated. The mean age was 57.11 [standard deviation (SD) 15.13], and 70.27% were males. The ICU mortality was 56.60% [95% confidence interval (CI) 53.24–60%]. The results of MLR and PSM method showed that vaccinated patients were less likely to be associated with mortality [adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 95% CI using logistic regression: 0.52 (0.29, 0.94), and by propensity score matching: 0.83 (0.77, 0.91)].

Conclusion

The findings of this study support COVID-19 vaccination as an effective method for reducing case fatality not only in the general population but also in critically ill patients, and it has important public health implications.
Hip prosthesis and colon surgery, a decade of surveillance on surgical site infections in Italy, a prospective cohort study: rates, trends, and disease burden in DALYs
Authors: Bordino Valerio , Vicentini Costanza , Cornio Alessandro Roberto , Gianino Maria Michela , Zotti Carla Maria
Published: February 2024

Background

Surveillance programs are a key element of interventions aiming to reduce rates of surgical site infections (SSIs). The aim of this study was to evaluate rates and trends of SSIs following hip arthroplasty and colon surgery procedures in Piedmont, a region in North-western Italy, from 2010 to 2019. Further, we aimed to assess the burden of SSIs in terms of Disability-Adjusted Life-Years (DALYs).

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted among 42 hospitals participating in the surveillance system. Procedure-specific SSI rates were calculated and the 2010 - 2019 trend was evaluated using Spearman's Rho test. Patients were stratified according to age, sex and infection risk index according to life expectancy in order to calculate DALYs, using a modified version of the ECDC’s BCoDE toolkit: disease models for both procedure types were adapted to incorporate long-term disability associated with SSIs.

Results

Overall, 20,356 hip arthroplasty and 11,011 colon surgery procedures were monitored over 10 years and were included in our analyses. Hip arthroplasty and colon surgery cumulative SSIs rates were 1.5% and 8% respectively. Using the Spearman’s Rho test, we evaluated a significant downward trend from 2010 to 2019 for colon surgery interventions (Rs − 0.7, p < 0.05), while there was no difference for hip arthroplasty. (Rs − 0.04, p > 0.05).

Regarding disease burden, a total of 955.3 (95%CI 837.7–1102.98) and 208.65 (95%CI 180.87–240.90) DALYs were calculated for SSIs following hip arthroplasty, whilst 76.58 (95%CI 67.15–90.71) and 38.62 (95% CI 33.09–45.36) DALYs for SSIs in colon surgery, in 2010 and 2019, respectively.

Conclusions

The significant decrease both in terms of incidence and DALYs found in this study for colon surgery and the stability for hip arthroplasty support the role of surveillance networks in improving quality of care. Despite the smaller SSI rate, the burden associated with SSIs following hip arthroplasty was higher, which is important to consider in light of the aging population in Italy.
Dynamic changes in the gut microbiota during three consecutive trimesters of pregnancy and their correlation with abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism
Authors: Gao Yiyang , Zhang Jinjia , Chen Haiying , Jin Xiaohui , Lin Zhenyu , Fan Chenling , Shan Zhongyan , Teng Weiping , Li Jing
Published: February 2024

Introduction

During normal pregnancy, changes in the gut microbiota (GM) in response to physiological alterations in hormonal secretion, immune functions and homeostasis have received extensive attention. However, the dynamic changes in the GM during three consecutive trimesters of pregnancy and their relationship with glucose and lipid metabolism have not been reported. In this study, we aimed to investigate the dynamic changes in the diversity and species of the GM during three consecutive trimesters in women who naturally conceived, and their relationships with abnormal fasting blood glucose (FBG) and serum lipid levels.

Methods

A total of 30 pregnant women without any known chronic or autoimmune inflammatory disease history before pregnancy were enrolled during the first trimester. Serum and stool samples were collected during the first trimester, the second trimester, and the third trimester. Serum samples were tested for FBG and blood lipid levels, and stool specimens were analyzed by 16S rDNA sequencing.

Results

The abundance ratio of bacteroidetes/firmicutes showed an increasing tendency in most of the subjects (19/30, 63.3%) from the first to the third trimester. LEfSe analysis showed that the abundance of Bilophila was significantly increased from the first to the third trimester. In addition, at the genus level, the increased relative abundance of Mitsuokella, Clostridium sensu stricto and Weissella were potentially involved in the development of high FBG during pregnancy. The raised relative abundance of Corynebacterium, Rothia and Granulicatella potentially contributed to the occurrence of dyslipidemia during pregnancy.

Conclusions

There are dynamic changes in the GM during the three trimesters, and the alterations in some bacterium abundance may contribute to the development of high FBG and dyslipidemia during pregnancy. Monitoring enterotypes and correcting dysbiosis in the first trimester may become new strategies for predicting and preventing glucolipid metabolism disorders during pregnancy.
Indoor air pollutants and their seasonal monitoring in European museums
Authors: Kraševec Ida , Markelj Jernej , Elnaggar Abdelrazek , Cigić Irena Kralj
Published: February 2024

The monitoring of indoor air pollutants is an important part of the management of heritage collections. In this work, acetic acid, formic acid, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and NO2 were measured with passive samplers along with temperature and relative humidity once per season in seven European institutions of different sizes with different types of objects. The measurements were carried out in a variety of locations, from modern and old display cases in exhibition rooms of different sizes to storage rooms and their enclosures for different types of objects. The results were evaluated based on the characteristics of the sampling locations and the extent to which the changing seasons affect pollutant concentrations were estimated. The dataset obtained from this study can be a valuable asset as a snapshot of the current state of the environment in European heritage collections.
The effect of micro-osteoperforations on the rate of maxillary incisors' retraction in orthodontic space closure: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Mordente Carolina Morsani , Oliveira Dauro Douglas , Palomo Juan Martin , Cardoso Polyana Araújo , Assis Marina Araújo Leite , Zenóbio Elton Gonçalves , Souki Bernardo Quiroga , Soares Rodrigo Villamarim
Published: February 2024

Background

This single-centered randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) in accelerating the orthodontic retraction of maxillary incisors.

Methods

Forty-two patients aged 16–40 were recruited and randomly assigned into two groups, one which underwent MOPs (MOPG) in the buccal and palatal region of all maxillary incisors immediately before the start of retraction and one which did not (CG). Eligibility criteria included the orthodontic need for maxillary first premolars extraction and space closure in two phases. The primary outcome of the study consisted of measuring the rate of space closure and, consequently, the rate of incisors’ retraction using digital model superimposition 14 days later and monthly thereafter for the next 4 months. The secondary outcomes included measuring anchorage loss, central incisors’ inclination, and root length shortening, analyzed using cone beam computed tomography scans acquired before retraction and 4 months after retraction. Randomization was performed using QuickCalcs software. While clinical blinding was not possible, the image’s examinator was blinded.

Results

Twenty-one patients were randomly assigned to each group. However, due to various reasons, a total of 37 patients (17 male and 20 female) were analyzed (mean age: 24.3 ± 8.1 years in the MOPG; 22.2 ± 4.2 years in the CG) during the trial. No statistically significant difference was found between the MOPG and the CG regarding the incisors’ retraction measured at different time points at the incisal border (14 days, 0.4 mm vs. 0.5 mm; 1 month, 0.79 mm vs. 0.77 mm; 2 months, 1.47 mm vs. 1.41 mm; 3 months, 2.09 mm vs. 1.88 mm; 4 months, 2.62 mm vs. 2.29 mm) and at the cervical level (14 days, 0.28 mm vs. 0.30 mm; 1 month, 0.41 mm vs. 0.32 mm; 2 months, 0.89 mm vs. 0.61 mm; 3 months, 1.36 mm vs. 1.10 mm; 4 months, 1.73 mm vs. 1.39 mm). Similarly, no statistically significant differences were detected in the space closure, anchorage loss, central incisors’ inclination, and radicular length between groups. No adverse effect was observed during the trial.

Conclusions

MOPs did not accelerate the retraction of the maxillary incisors, nor were they associated with greater incisor inclination or root resorption.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03089996. Registered 24 March 2017—https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03089996.
Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of seventeen widely-used assessment instruments for child and adolescent mental health in Greece
Authors: Karagiorga Vasiliki Eirini , Schafer Julia Luiza , Marchionatti Lauro Estivalete , Caye Arthur , Serdari Aspasia , Kotsis Konstantinos , Basta Maria , Balikou Panagiota , Kapsimalli Efstathia , Mitropoulou Andromachi , Klavdianou Nikanthi , Zeleni Domna , Mitroulaki Sotiria , Botzaki Anna , Gerostergios Giorgos , Samiotakis Giorgos , Simioni André , Georgiades Katholiki , Salum Giovanni Abrahão , Koumoula Anastasia
Published: February 2024

Background

In the context of Greece, many instruments measuring constructs pertinent to child and adolescent mental health lacked a locally-validated, freely-available version. As part of a nationwide survey, we translated and cross-culturally adapted a collection of seventeen brief, largely-employed assessment tools that can be used at scale.

Methods

This study is part of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Initiative in Greece (CAMHI), a capacity-building program focusing on enhancing mental health care for children and adolescents living in Greece. We conducted a nationwide survey assessing mental health symptoms, parenting practices, service availability and quality, mental health literacy and stigma, and professional practices within the country. As part of this process, we selected outcomes and instruments after consulting the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) and the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN). From our selection, we identified 17 instruments that did not have a Greek-validated version available for use. These instruments were translated and cross-culturally adapted following a structured procedure, including independent back-and-forth translations, synthesis of versions, expert revision, and pilot testing. Some instruments were slightly modified to meet CAMHI survey purposes.

Results

A cross-culturally adapted version in Greek was made available for the following instruments: Pediatric Symptoms Checklist (PSC); Deliberate Self Harm Inventory (DSH) (modified); Child and Adolescent Trauma Screen-2 (CATS-2); ABCD Screen Use (modified); Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham-IV (SNAP-IV); Parent Behavior Inventory (PBI); Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS)—(modified); Australian Mental Health Vignettes; Reported and Intended Behavior Scale (RIBS); Barriers to Access to Care (BACE) (modified); Experience of Service Questionnaire (ESQ) (modified); and Multitheoretical List of Therapeutic Interventions (MULTI-30) (modified).

Conclusion

A collection of these widely-used assessment tools is now adapted for the local context and freely accessible at [https://osf.io/crz6h/]. Researchers and health professionals in Greece can utilize this resource to screen, evaluate, and monitor various constructs related to mental health in accordance with the most effective practices.
Training of a robot-based psychological intervention program to prevent inappropriate touching of children
Authors: Tahan Mohammad , Afrooz Gholamali , Bolhari Jafar
Published: February 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a robot-based psychological intervention on the prevention of inappropriate touching of children. The trial was registered in the International Clinical Trial Registry Platform with the registration id of ISRCTN17186302.

Results

In this study, the intervention had a positive effect on inappropriate sexual care in elementary school children (P < 0.01). Moreover, education on sexual care heightened children’s knowledge about inappropriate touch (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

According to the results, the robot-based psychological intervention had an impact on children’s sexual care. It is suggested that this method be applied by counselors and psychologists as a therapeutic approach.
4C mortality score and CT severity score among COVID-19 patients: a single center prospective study
Authors: Said Azza Farag , El-Fateh Ayman Hussein , Esmaeel Tamer El Zaeem , Mady Ahmed Fathy
Published: February 2024

Background

Predictions about the hospital course of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients are of paramount value. This research was designed to validate 4C mortality and CT severity scores (CT-SS) as prognostication tools of mortality and detect their relations among patients with COVID-19 who are hospitalized. The identification of other potential mortality risk factors was also evaluated.

Methods

Two hundred and ninety-six confirmed COVID-19 adult cases were prospectively included. They were allocated into 3 groups according to severity; 78 in moderate group, 97 in severe group, and 121 patients in critical group. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, co-morbidities, lines of treatment, 4C mortality score and CT severity score were assessed upon admission.

Results

The study revealed that 90% and 84.3% sensitivities were observed for 4C mortality and CT-SS respectively as predictors of mortality. Significant correlation between both scores (r = 0.6. p = 0.0001) was detected. Multivariate analysis identified 6.9-fold increased risk of mortality for the patients with 4C mortality score > 9.5 (p = 0.001). CT-SS > 12, age ≥ 60, male gender, hypertension and diabetes mellitus were also found as significant independent factors associated with increased mortality.

Conclusions

Both of 4C mortality score and CT-SS have a high sensitivity as a risk-stratification scores with a considerable correlation. In addition, they represent the most independent risk factors associated with mortality in comparison to other clinical or laboratory indices.
Influencing factors for the implementation of school-based interventions promoting obesity prevention behaviors in children with low socioeconomic status: a systematic review
Authors: Butscher Friederike , Ellinger Jan , Singer Monika , Mall Christoph
Published: February 2024

Background

Health inequity (HI) remains a major challenge in public health. Improving the health of children with low socioeconomic status (SES) can help to reduce overall HI in children. Childhood obesity is a global problem, entailing several adverse health effects. It is crucial to assess the influencing factors for adoption, implementation, and sustainment of interventions. This review aims to identify articles reporting about influencing factors for the implementation of school-based interventions promoting obesity prevention behaviors in children with low SES. It aims to critically appraise the articles’ quality, assess influencing factors, categorize and evaluate them, and to discuss possible implications.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in 7 databases with the following main inclusion criteria: (1) school-based interventions and (2) target group aged 5–14 years. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, its five domains (intervention characteristics, inner setting, outer setting, characteristics of individuals, process) along with 39 categories within these domains were used as deductive category system for data analysis. We grouped the articles with regard to the characteristics of the interventions in simple and complex interventions. For each domain, and for the groups of simple and complex interventions, the most commonly reported influencing factors are identified.

Results

In total, 8111 articles were screened, and 17 met all eligibility criteria. Included articles applied mixed methods (n=11), qualitative (n=5), and quantitative design (n=1). Of these, six were considered to report simple interventions and eleven were considered to report complex interventions. In total, 301 influencing factors were assessed. Aspects of the inner setting were reported in every study, aspects of the outer setting were the least reported domain. In the inner setting, most reported influencing factors were time (n=8), scheduling (n=6), and communication (n=6).

Conclusion

This review found a wide range of influencing factors for implementation and contributes to existing literature regarding health equity as well as implementation science. Including all stakeholders involved in the implementation process and assessing the most important influencing factors in the specific setting, could enhance implementation and intervention effectiveness. More empirical research and practical guidance are needed to promote obesity prevention behaviors among children with low SES.

Registration

CRD42021281209 (PROSPERO)
Variation in symptoms of common mental disorders in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic: longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Saunders Rob , Buckman Joshua E. J. , Suh Jae Won , Fonagy Peter , Pilling Stephen , Bu Feifei , Fancourt Daisy
Published: February 2024

Background

A significant rise in mental health disorders was expected during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, referrals to mental health services dropped for several months before rising to pre-pandemic levels.

Aims

To identify trajectories of incidence and risk factors for common mental disorders among the general population during 14 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, to inform potential mental health service needs.

Method

A cohort of 33 703 adults in England in the University College London COVID-19 Social Study provided data from March 2020 to May 2021. Growth mixture modelling was used to identify trajectories based on the probability of participants reporting symptoms of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) or anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7) in the clinical range, for each month. Sociodemographic and personality-related characteristics associated with each trajectory class were explored.

Results

Five trajectory classes were identified for depression and anxiety. Participants in the largest class (62%) were very unlikely to report clinically significant symptom levels. Other trajectories represented participants with a high likelihood of clinically significant symptoms throughout, early clinically significant symptoms that reduced over time, clinically significant symptoms that emerged as the pandemic unfolded and a moderate likelihood of clinically significant symptoms throughout. Females, younger adults, carers, those with existing mental health diagnoses, those that socialised frequently pre-pandemic and those with higher neuroticism scores were more likely to experience depression or anxiety.

Conclusions

Nearly 40% of participants followed trajectories indicating risk of clinically significant symptoms of depression or anxiety. The identified risk factors could inform public health interventions to target individuals at risk in future health emergencies.
Resonant-type Luneburg lens for broadband low-frequency focusing
Authors: Zhao Liuxian , Zhuang Xuxu , Guo Hao , Bi Chuanxing , Sun Zhaoyong
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a novel structural Luneburg lens with local resonators is proposed. This lens allows the realization of subwavelength focusing in low-frequency range. The lens is achieved by graded refractive index from the lens's centre to the outer surface. Numerical simulations are conducted to obtain data on wave propagation waveform, maximum displacement amplitude, and full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of the lens's focal region. The results show that a broadband frequency range can be achieved for subwavelength focusing. This provides a straightforward and adaptable method for designing the structural Luneburg lens for numerous applications.
Integrated Feedforward and Feedback Mechanisms in Neurovascular Coupling
Authors: Meng Lingzhong , Rasmussen Mads , Meng Deyi M. , White Fletcher A. , Wu Long-Jun
Published: February 2024

Neurovascular coupling (NVC) is the mechanism that drives the neurovascular response to neural activation, and NVC dysfunction has been implicated in various neurologic diseases. NVC is driven by (1) nonmetabolic feedforward mechanisms that are mediated by various signaling pathways and (2) metabolic feedback mechanisms that involve metabolic factors. However, the interplay between these feedback and feedforward mechanisms remains unresolved. We propose that feedforward mechanisms normally drive a swift, neural activation–induced regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) overshoot, which floods the tissue beds, leading to local hypocapnia and hyperoxia. The feedback mechanisms are triggered by the resultant hypocapnia (not hyperoxia), which causes cerebral vasoconstriction in the neurovascular unit that counterbalances the rCBF overshoot and returns rCBF to a level that matches the metabolic activity. If feedforward mechanisms function improperly (eg, in a disease state), the rCBF overshoot, tissue-bed flooding, and local hypocapnia fail to occur or occur on a smaller scale. Consequently, the neural activation–related increase in metabolic activity results in local hypercapnia and hypoxia, both of which drive cerebral vasodilation and increase rCBF. Thus, feedback mechanisms ensure the brain milieu’s stability when feedforward mechanisms are impaired. Our proposal integrates the feedforward and feedback mechanisms underlying NVC and suggests that these 2 mechanisms work like a fail-safe system, to a certain degree. We also discussed the difference between NVC and cerebral metabolic rate-CBF coupling and the clinical implications of our proposed framework.
Positive Airway Pressure in Surgical Patients with Sleep Apnea: What is the Supporting Evidence?
Authors: Berezin Linor , Chung Frances
Published: February 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is prevalent amongst surgical patients and associated with an increased incidence of perioperative complications. The gold standard treatment for moderate-to-severe OSA is positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Practice guidelines by the American Society of Anesthesiologists and the Society of Anesthesia and Sleep Medicine have recommended preoperative screening for OSA and consideration of initiation of PAP therapy for patients with severe OSA. These guidelines, developed mainly by the consensus of experts, highlight the adverse impact of OSA on postoperative outcomes and recommend the use of postoperative PAP in surgical patients with moderate to severe OSA. Since the development of these guidelines, there has been an increase in the number of publications regarding the efficacy of PAP therapy in surgical patients with OSA. Our review provides an update on the existing literature on the efficacy of PAP therapy in surgical patients with OSA. We focus on the postoperative complications associated with OSA, potential mechanisms leading to the increased risk of postoperative adverse events, and summarize the perioperative guidelines for the management of patients with OSA, evidence supporting perioperative PAP therapy, as well as limitations to PAP therapy and alternatives. An update on the existing literature of the efficacy of PAP therapy in surgical patients with OSA is critical to assess the impact of prior guidelines, determine when and how to effectively implement PAP therapy, and target barriers to PAP adherence in the perioperative setting.