bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complement component 7 is associated with total- and cardiac death in chest-pain patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Aarsetøy Reidun , Ueland Thor , Aukrust Pål , Michelsen Annika E. , Leon de la Fuente Ricardo , Grundt Heidi , Staines Harry , Nygaard Ottar , Nilsen Dennis W. T.
Published: October 2021

Background

Complement activation has been associated with atherosclerosis, atherosclerotic plaque destabilization and increased risk of cardiovascular events. Complement component 7 (CC7) binds to the C5bC6 complex which is part of the terminal complement complex (TCC/C5b-9). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is a sensitive marker of systemic inflammation and may reflect the increased inflammatory state associated with cardiovascular disease.

Aim

To evaluate the associations between CC7 and total- and cardiac mortality in patients hospitalized with chest-pain of suspected coronary origin, and whether combining CC7 with hsCRP adds prognostic information.

Methods

Baseline levels of CC7 were related to 60-months survival in a prospective, observational study of 982 patients hospitalized with a suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) at 9 hospitals in Salta, Argentina. A cox regression model, adjusting for conventional cardiovascular risk factors, was fitted with all-cause mortality, cardiac death and sudden cardiac death (SCD) as the dependent variables. A similar Norwegian population of 871 patients was applied to test the reproducibility of results in relation to total death.

Results

At follow-up, 173 patients (17.7%) in the Argentinean cohort had died, of these 92 (9.4%) were classified as cardiac death and 59 (6.0%) as SCD. In the Norwegian population, a total of 254 patients (30%) died. In multivariable analysis, CC7 was significantly associated with 60-months all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.26 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07–1.47) and cardiac death [HR 1.28 (95% CI 1.02–1.60)], but not with SCD. CC7 was only weakly correlated with hsCRP (r = 0.10, p = 0.002), and there was no statistically significant interaction between the two biomarkers in relation to outcome. The significant association of CC7 with total death was reproduced in the Norwegian population.

Conclusions

CC7 was significantly associated with all-cause mortality and cardiac death at 60-months follow-up in chest-pain patients with suspected ACS.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01377402, NCT00521976.
Cyclin-dependent kinase 19 upregulation correlates with an unfavorable prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Cai Xiaopeng , Deng Jingwen , zhou Jiaming , Cai Huiqiang , Chen Zhi
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Cyclin-dependent kinase 19 (CDK19) is a component of the mediator coactivator complex, which is required for transcriptional activation. In this study, we utilized public databases and wet-bench hepatic cell line experiments to elucidate the potential roles of CDK19 in hepatocellular cancer (HCC).

Materials and methods

We studied the relationships between CDK19 expression and several clinical features related to HCC via the Oncomine and UALCAN databases. The prognostic value of CDK19 was tested using the Kaplan–Meier Plotter database. We presented the mutations of CDK19 and addressed the relation of CDK19 expression with immune cell infiltration by means of the cBioPortal, Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) and Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource (TIMER) databases. Hub genes were obtained and further analyzed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database. To test the in silico findings, we knocked down CDK19 with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) technology in two hepatic cell lines and conducted several functional characterization experiments.

Results

Marked CDK19 upregulation was found in HCC tissues versus normal liver tissues, and CDK19 mRNA expression had high diagnostic value in HCC patients. Subgroup analysis showed that CDK19 overexpression was associated with sex, tumor stage and TP53 mutation status. The prognostic value of CDK19 upregulation for overall survival (OS) was significant in patients with stage 2–3, stage 3–4, and grade 2 disease. One percent of the patients had CDK19 mutations, but no relationship between CDK19 mutation and prognosis was observed. CDK19 was positively correlated with the abundances of CD4 + T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells. We identified 10 genes correlated with CDK19, 8 of which presented excellent prognostic value in HCC. These hub genes were directly involved in cell division and regulation of the G2/M cell cycle transition. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) and pathway predictions indicated that CDK19 is highly likely to be involved in several cellular functions, such as proliferation, migration, and invasion. These functions were strongly interfered from two independent hepatic cell lines after CDK19 knockdown.

Conclusions

CDK19 could be a prognostic marker in HCC, and its therapeutic potential in HCC needs further study.
Predicting unplanned hospital visits in older home care recipients: a cross-country external validation study
Authors: Klunder Jet H. , Bordonis Veronique , Heymans Martijn W. , van der Roest Henriëtte G. , Declercq Anja , Smit Jan H. , Garms-Homolova Vjenka , Jónsson Pálmi V. , Finne-Soveri Harriet , Onder Graziano , Joling Karlijn J. , Maarsingh Otto R. , van Hout Hein P. J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Accurate identification of older persons at risk of unplanned hospital visits can facilitate preventive interventions. Several risk scores have been developed to identify older adults at risk of unplanned hospital visits. It is unclear whether risk scores developed in one country, perform as well in another. This study validates seven risk scores to predict unplanned hospital admissions and emergency department (ED) visits in older home care recipients from six countries.

Methods

We used the IBenC sample (n = 2446), a cohort of older home care recipients from six countries (Belgium, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Italy and The Netherlands) to validate four specific risk scores (DIVERT, CARS, EARLI and previous acute admissions) and three frailty indicators (CHESS, Fried Frailty Criteria and Frailty Index). Outcome measures were unplanned hospital admissions, ED visits or any unplanned hospital visits after 6 months. Missing data were handled by multiple imputation. Performance was determined by assessing calibration and discrimination (area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC)).

Results

Risk score performance varied across countries. In Iceland, for any unplanned hospital visits DIVERT and CARS reached a fair predictive value (AUC 0.74 [0.68–0.80] and AUC 0.74 [0.67–0.80]), respectively). In Finland, DIVERT had fair performance predicting ED visits (AUC 0.72 [0.67–0.77]) and any unplanned hospital visits (AUC 0.73 [0.67–0.77]). In other countries, AUCs did not exceed 0.70.

Conclusions

Geographical validation of risk scores predicting unplanned hospital visits in home care recipients showed substantial variations of poor to fair performance across countries. Unplanned hospital visits seem considerably dependent on healthcare context. Therefore, risk scores should be validated regionally before applied to practice. Future studies should focus on identification of more discriminative predictors in order to develop more accurate risk scores.
Factors affecting missed nursing care in hospitalized frail older adults in the medical wards: a qualitative study
Authors: Rezaei-Shahsavarloo Zahra , Atashzadeh-Shoorideh Foroozan , Ebadi Abbas , Gobbens Robbert J. J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Frail older adults who are hospitalized, are more likely to experience missed nursing care (MNC) due to high care needs, communication problems, and complexity of nursing care. We conducted a qualitative study to examine the factors affecting MNC among hospitalized frail older adults in the medical units.

Methods

This qualitative study was carried using the conventional content analysis approach in three teaching hospitals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 nurses through purposive and snowball sampling. The inclusion criteria for the nurses were: at least two years of clinical work experience on a medical ward, caring for frail older people in hospital and willingness to participate. Data were analyzed in accordance with the process described by Graneheim and Lundman. In addition, trustworthiness of the study was assessed using the criteria proposed by Lincoln and Guba.

Results

In general, 20 interviews were conducted with nurses. A total of 1320 primary codes were extracted, which were classified into two main categories: MNC aggravating and moderating factors. Factors such as “age-unfriendly structure,” “inefficient care,” and “frailty of older adults” could increase the risk of MNC. In addition, factors such as “support capabilities” and “ethical and legal requirements” will moderate MNC.

Conclusions

Hospitalized frail older adults are more at risk of MNC due to high care needs, communication problems, and nursing care complexity. Nursing managers can take practical steps to improve the quality of care by addressing the aggravating and moderating factors of MNC. In addition, nurses with a humanistic perspective who understand the multidimensional problems of frail older adults and pay attention to their weakness in expressing needs, can create a better experience for them in the hospital and improve patient safety.
Geriatrics-focused indicators predict mortality more than age in older adults hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Sinvani Liron , Marziliano Allison , Makhnevich Alex , Tarima Sergey , Liu Yan , Qiu Michael , Zhang Meng , Ardito Suzanne , Carney Maria , Diefenbach Michael , Davidson Karina , Burns Edith
Published: October 2021

Background

Age has been implicated as the main risk factor for COVID-19-related mortality. Our objective was to utilize administrative data to build an explanatory model accounting for geriatrics-focused indicators to predict mortality in hospitalized older adults with COVID-19.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of adults age 65 and older (N = 4783) hospitalized with COVID-19 in the greater New York metropolitan area between 3/1/20-4/20/20. Data included patient demographics and clinical presentation. Stepwise logistic regression with Akaike Information Criterion minimization was used.

Results

The average age was 77.4 (SD = 8.4), 55.9% were male, 20.3% were African American, and 15.0% were Hispanic. In multivariable analysis, male sex (adjusted odds ration (adjOR) = 1.06, 95% CI:1.03-1.09); Asian race (adjOR = 1.08, CI:1.03-1.13); history of chronic kidney disease (adjOR = 1.05, CI:1.01-1.09) and interstitial lung disease (adjOR = 1.35, CI:1.28-1.42); low or normal body mass index (adjOR:1.03, CI:1.00-1.07); higher comorbidity index (adjOR = 1.01, CI:1.01-1.02); admission from a facility (adjOR = 1.14, CI:1.09-1.20); and mechanical ventilation (adjOR = 1.52, CI:1.43-1.62) were associated with mortality. While age was not an independent predictor of mortality, increasing age (centered at 65) interacted with hypertension (adjOR = 1.02, CI:0.98-1.07, reducing by a factor of 0.96 every 10 years); early Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR, life-sustaining treatment preferences) (adjOR = 1.38, CI:1.22-1.57, reducing by a factor of 0.92 every 10 years); and severe illness on admission (at 65, adjOR = 1.47, CI:1.40-1.54, reducing by a factor of 0.96 every 10 years).

Conclusion

Our findings highlight that residence prior to admission, early DNR, and acute illness severity are important predictors of mortality in hospitalized older adults with COVID-19. Readily available administrative geriatrics-focused indicators that go beyond age can be utilized when considering prognosis.
Values and preferences for hepatitis C self-testing among the general population and healthcare workers in Rwanda
Authors: Serumondo Janvier , Shilton Sonjelle , Nshimiyimana Ladislas , Karame Prosper , Dushimiyimana Donatha , Fajardo Emmanuel , Remera Eric , Rwibasira Gallican N. , Martínez-Pérez Guillermo Z.
Published: October 2021

Background

In 2018, Rwanda launched a 5-year hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination plan as per the World Health Organization global targets to eliminate HCV by 2030. To improve awareness of HCV status, strategies are needed to ensure easy access to HCV testing by as-yet unreached populations. HCV-self-testing, an innovative strategy, could further increase HCV testing uptake. This assessment explores perceptions around HCV self-testing among members of the public and healthcare workers in Rwanda.

Methods

A qualitative study was undertaken in Masaka District Hospital, comprising individual interviews, group interviews and participatory action research (PAR) activities. Purposive and snowball sampling methods guided the selection of informants. Informed consent was obtained from all participants. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the findings.

Results

The participants comprised 36 members of the public and 36 healthcare workers. Informants appreciated HCV self-testing as an innovative means of increasing access to HCV testing, as well as an opportunity to test privately and subsequently autonomously decide whether to seek further HCV care. Informants further highlighted the need to make HCV self-testing services free of charge at the nearest health facility. Disadvantages identified included the lack of pre/post-test counselling, as well as the potential psychosocial harm which may result from the use of HCV self-testing.

Conclusion

HCV self-testing is perceived to be an acceptable method to increase HCV testing in Rwanda. Further research is needed to assess the impact of HCV self-testing on HCV cascade of care outcomes.
Diagnosis of cervical plexus tumours by high-frequency ultrasonography
Authors: Gong Wenqing , Wang Jing , Huang Liwei , Yang Xu , Chen Dingzhang , Zheng Minjuan
Published: October 2021

Background

Cervical plexus (CP) tumours are difficult to diagnose because of atypical symptoms. This study aimed to summarize the features of a normal CP and CP tumours observed on high-frequency ultrasonography.

Methods

The ultrasound data of 11 CP tumour patients and 22 normal volunteers were collected. All 11 patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and 4 patients also underwent computed tomography (CT). The imaging data were compared with surgery and pathology data.

Results

The C7 vertebra and bifurcation of the carotid common artery (CCA) were useful anatomic markers for identifying the CP. In contrast to the C1 nerve (22.7%), the C2-4 nerves were well displayed and thinner than the brachial plexus (P < 0.05). CP tumours were more common in females (72.7%) and generally located at C4 (72.7%) on the right side (81.8%). Additionally, the nerve trunk in tumour patients was obviously wider than that in normal controls (7.49 ± 1.03 mm vs 2.67 ± 0.36 mm, P < 0.01). Compared with pathology, the diagnostic rates of CP tumours by MRI, CT and high-frequency ultrasound were 72.7% (8/11), 25% (1/4) and 90.9% (10/11), respectively.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of CP neuropathy is accurate and reliable by high-frequency ultrasound, and the C7 vertebra and bifurcation of the CCA are useful anatomic markers in CP ultrasonography.
Socioeconomic position and prediagnostic health care contacts in children with cancer in Denmark: a nationwide register study
Authors: Pedersen Line Hjøllund , Erdmann Friederike , Aalborg Gitte Lerche , Hjalgrim Lisa Lyngsie , Larsen Hanne Bækgaard , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Winther Jeanette Falck , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg
Published: October 2021

Background

While underlying mechanisms and pathways of social inequalities in cancer survival have been extensively examined in adults, this is less so for children with cancer. Hypothesized mechanisms include prediagnostic utilization of and navigation through the health care system, which may differ by socioeconomic resources of the families. In this nationwide register-based study we investigated the association between measures of family socioeconomic position in relation to prediagnostic health care contacts and stage of disease at diagnosis in children with cancer in Denmark.

Methods

We identified all children diagnosed with a cancer at ages 0–15 years in 1998–2016 (N = 3043) from the Danish Childhood Cancer Registry. We obtained comprehensive information on measures of socioeconomic position, parental health and prediagnostic contacts to both general practitioners and hospitals 24 months prior to diagnosis from various national registries. We fitted multivariable conditional logistic regression models for the association of family socioeconomic and health-related variables with firstly, frequent health care contacts and secondly, advanced stage.

Results

We found higher odds ratios (OR) of frequent both overall and emergency health care contacts in the last 3 months before diagnosis in children from households with short parental education and mixed affiliation to work market, when compared to children with high family socioeconomic position. Further, children of parents with depression or of non-Western origin, respectively, had higher OR for frequent overall and emergency contacts. We found no association between socioeconomic position, parental health and stage of disease.

Conclusion

Families with socioeconomic disadvantage, non-Western origin or depression more frequently utilize prediagnostic health care services, both generally and in the acute setting, indicating that some disadvantaged families may struggle to navigate the health care system when their child is sick. Reassuringly, this was not reflected in disparities in stage at diagnosis. In order to improve the diagnostic process and potentially reduce health care contacts, attention and support should be given to families with a high number of health care contacts over a short period of time.
Environmental assessment of interventions to restrain the impact of industrial pollution using a quasi-experimental design: limitations of the interventions and recommendations for public health policy
Authors: Gianicolo Emilio A. L. , Cervino Marco , Russo Antonello , Singer Susanne , Blettner Maria , Mangia Cristina
Published: October 2021

Background

In an industrial area, the asymmetry between the weights of the economic interests compared to the public-health needs can determine which interests are represented in decision-making processes. This might lead to partial interventions, whose impacts are not always evaluated. This study focuses on two interventions implemented in Taranto, Italy, a city hosting one of the largest steel plants in Europe. The first intervention deals with measures industrial plants must implement by law to reduce emissions during so called “wind days” in order to reduce PM10 and benzo [a] pyrene concentrations. The second one is a warning to the population with recommendations to aerate indoor spaces from 12 pm to 6 pm, when pollutant concentrations are believed to be lower.

Methods

To analyse the impact of the first intervention, we analysed monthly PM10 data in the period 2009–2016 from two monitoring stations and conducted an interrupted-time-series analysis. Coefficients of time-based covariates are estimated in the regression model. To minimise potential confounding, monthly concentrations of PM10 in a neighbourhood 13 km away from the steel plant were used as a control series. To evaluate the second intervention, hourly concentrations of PM10, SO2 and polycyclic-aromatic-hydrocarbons (PAHs) were analysed.

Results

PM10 concentrations in the intervention neighbourhood showed a peak just a few months before the introduction of the law. When compared to the control series, PM10 concentrations were constantly higher throughout the entire study period. After the intervention, there was a reduction in the difference between the two time-series (− 25.6%). During “wind days” results suggested no reduction in concentrations of air pollutants from 12 pm to 18 pm.

Conclusion

Results of our study suggest revising the warning to the population. Furthermore, they evidence that in complex highly industrialised areas, air quality interventions cannot focus on only a single pollutant, but rather should consider the complex relationships between the different contaminants. Environmental interventions should be reviewed periodically, particularly when they have implications for social constraints. While the results of our study can be related only to the specific situation reported in the article, the methodology applied might be useful for the environmental management in industrial areas with similar features.
Underdiagnosis of obstructive lung disease: findings from the French CONSTANCES cohort
Authors: Delmas Marie-Christine , Bénézet Laetitia , Ribet Céline , Iwatsubo Yuriko , Zins Marie , Nadif Rachel , Roche Nicolas , Leynaert Bénédicte
Published: October 2021

Background

The burden of undiagnosed obstructive lung disease (OLD) (mainly asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is not fully established, and targets for corrective action are yet to be identified. We assessed the underdiagnosis of OLD and its determinants in France.

Methods

CONSTANCES is a French population-based cohort of adults aged 18–69 years at inception. We analysed data collected at inclusion in 2013–2014. Undiagnosed OLD was defined as spirometry-confirmed airflow limitation (FEV1/FVC < lower limit of normal) without prior diagnosis of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or bronchiectasis. Multivariate analysis was performed with weighted robust Poisson regression models to estimate the adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) of undiagnosed OLD.

Results

Spirometry results were available for 19,398 participants. The prevalence of airflow limitation was 4.6%. Overall, 64.4% of adults with airflow limitation did not report a previous diagnosis of OLD. Individuals with high cumulative tobacco consumption (≥ 10 pack-years) (aPR: 1.72 [1.28–2.32]), without respiratory symptoms (aPR: 1.51 [1.28–1.78]), and with preserved lung function (aPR: 1.21 [1.04–1.41] for a 10-point increase in FEV1% predicted) had a higher risk of being undiagnosed. Half of symptomatic individuals with airflow limitation (45% of those with moderate to severe airflow limitation) were undiagnosed with OLD.

Conclusion

Underdiagnosis of OLD is very common among French adults, even in patients with respiratory symptoms. Efforts should be made in France to raise awareness about OLD in the general population, improve the detection of respiratory symptoms, and increase the use of spirometry among primary care professionals.
Visualization of mandibular movement relative to the maxilla during mastication in mice: integration of kinematic analysis and reconstruction of a three-dimensional model of the maxillofacial structure
Authors: Yasuda Go , Moriuchi Emi , Hamanaka Ryo , Fujishita Ayumi , Yoshimi Tomoko , Yamamoto Kana , Hayashida Kaori , Koga Yoshiyuki , Yoshida Noriaki
Published: October 2021

Background

Mastication is one of the most fundamental functions for the conservation of human life. To clarify the pathogenetic mechanism of various oral dysfunctions, the demand for devices for evaluating stomatognathic function has been increasing. The aim of the present study was to develop a system to reconstruct and visualize 3-dimensional (3D) mandibular movements relative to the maxilla, including dynamic transition of occlusal contacts between the upper and lower dentitions during mastication in mice.

Methods

First, mandibular movements with six degrees of freedom were measured using a motion capture system comprising two high-speed cameras and four reflective markers. Second, 3D models of maxillofacial structure were reconstructed from micro-computed tomography images. Movement trajectories of anatomical landmark points on the mandible were then reproduced by integrating the kinematic data of mandibular movements with the anatomical data of maxillofacial structures. Lastly, 3D surface images of the upper dentition with the surrounding maxillofacial structures were transferred to each of the motion capture images to reproduce mandibular movements relative to the maxilla. We also performed electromyography (EMG) of masticatory muscles associated with mandibular movements.

Results

The developed system could reproduce the 3D movement trajectories of arbitrary points on the mandible, such as incisor, molars and condylar points with high accuracy and could visualize dynamic transitions of occlusal contacts between upper and lower teeth associated with mandibular movements.

Conclusions

The proposed system has potential to elucidate the mechanisms underlying motor coordination of masticatory muscles and to clarify their roles during mastication by taking advantage of the capability to record EMG data synchronously with mandibular movements. Such insights will enhance our understanding of the pathogenesis and diagnosis of oral motor disorders by allowing comparisons between normal mice and genetically modified mice with oral behavioral dysfunctions.
Patient and physician perspectives on engaging in palliative and healthcare trials: a qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Cardenas Valeria , Rahman Anna , Giulioni Jenna , Coulourides Kogan Alexis , Enguidanos Susan
Published: October 2021

Background

Researchers are encountering increasing challenges in recruiting participants for palliative and healthcare research. This paper aims to understand challenges to and methods for engaging physicians and seriously ill patients and their caregivers in research studies.

Methods

Between October 2019 to July 2020, we conducted qualitative interviews with 25 patients, proxies, and caregivers participants who were eligible for a randomized controlled trial of home-based palliative care and 31 physicians from participating accountable care organizations. Using thematic analysis, we analyzed participants’ responses to identify concepts and key ideas within the text. From these initial concepts, core themes around barriers to research and preferred research recruitment approaches were generated.

Results

Themes from patient and caregiver interviews included time constraints, privacy concerns, lack of research familiarity, disconnect with research institution, self-perceived health status, and concerns with study randomization. Physician-identified barriers focused on time constraints and study randomization. Patient and caregiver recommendations for study recruitment included in-person recruitment, recruitment at healthcare providers’ offices, recruitment via mail, additional study information, and frequent calls. Physician recommendations were related to placement of flyers at clinics, financial incentives, and formal events.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrated that although patients and caregivers prefer that their physicians recruit them for health-related research studies, physicians identified time constraints as a consistent barrier to research involvement.
Palliative care in the community – the role of the resource nurse, a qualitative study
Authors: Johansen Håkon , Helgesen Ann Karin
Published: October 2021

Background

Approaches involving resource nurses have been used in several fields of practice to enhance quality of care. A literature review reveals limited research on the role of the resource nurse in palliative care in the community.

Aim

To explore experiences related to the role of the resource nurse in palliative care in the setting of nursing homes in Norway.

Design

The study has an explorative design with a qualitative approach.

Methods

Two semi structured group interviews were conducted. Five resource nurses participated in the first interview, two resource nurses participated in the last interview. The group interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed with systematic text condensation.

Results

The resource nurses wish to promote high-quality palliative care. They are skilled palliative nurses working clinically, and they use their experience and knowledge to talk about and demonstrate good practice. By conveying knowledge and being role models, they bolster their colleagues’ confidence and skills in palliative care and contribute to a shared view of quality. They can potentially play an important role in facilitating reflection and collaboration in the palliative care team. However, the resource nurse’s function is affected by interpersonal, managerial and organisational factors.

Conclusion

The resource nurse most important tool in promoting high-quality palliative care may be to support their colleagues being a role model, and sharing knowledge and experience. The resource nurses play an important role in facilitating reflection and collaboration in the palliative care team and may contribute to ethical awareness and proper dialogues about end of life issues.
Building a telepalliative care strategy in nursing homes: a qualitative study with mobile palliative care teams
Authors: Cormi Clément , Petit Marie , Auclair Juline , Bagaragaza Emmanuel , Colombet Isabelle , Sanchez Stéphane
Published: October 2021

Background

Despite increasing use of telemedicine in the field of palliative care, studies about the best circumstances and processes where it could replace face-to-face interaction are lacking. This study aimed to: (1) identify situations that are most amenable to the use of telemedicine for the provision of palliative care to patients in nursing homes; and (2) understand how telemedicine could best be integrated into the routine practice of mobile palliative care teams.

Methods

A qualitative study based on semi-structured focus groups (n = 7) with professionals (n = 33) working in mobile palliative care teams in France.

Results

Between June and July 2019, 7 mobile palliative care teams participated in one focus group each. Using thematic analysis, we found that telemedicine use in palliative care is about navigating between usual and new practices. Several influencing factors also emerged, which influence the use of telemedicine for palliative care, depending on the situation. Finally, we built a use-case model of palliative care to help mobile palliative care teams identify circumstances where telemedicine could be useful, or not.

Conclusions

The potential utility of telemedicine for delivering palliative care in nursing homes largely depends on the motive for calling on the mobile palliative care team. Requests regarding symptoms may be particularly amenable to telemedicine, whereas psycho-social distress may not. Further studies are warranted to assess the impact of influencing factors on real-life palliative care practices. Telemedicine could nonetheless be a useful addition to the mobile palliative care teams’ armamentarium.
Paediatric oncology ward nurses’ experiences of patients’ deaths in China: A qualitative study
Authors: Ma Ruo Han , Zhao Xue Ping , Ni Zhi Hong , Xue Xiao Ling
Published: October 2021

Background

Considering cancer death is second only to accidental death in the number of lives claimed each year,nurses in paediatric oncology wards often experience helplessness, sadness, frustration and such other adverse emotions when they witness children’s death due to cancer.However,there is a lack of qualitative studies on nurses who witness the death of children in paediatric oncology wards in China.

Method

A qualitative study was conducted using a semi-structured interview guide with 22 paediatric oncology ward nurses. Interviews were recorded and simultaneously translated and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

The analysis resulted in the identification of three main thematic categories: Different emotional expression, Different copingstrategies, A weak support system. Nursing managers should pay attention to problems faced by nurses in paediatric oncology wards, and take targeted measures in terms of continuing training courses, improving the psychological adaptability of oncology professional nurses, and providing them substantive support.

Conclusion

Nurses in paediatric oncology wards have strong stress responses to facing the death of children. They reported experiencing complex psychological feelings and have different coping attitudes. Healthcare authorities should recognise and understand the needs of paediatric oncology ward nurses, who often witness the death of children. Appropriate and effective support measures should be planned and implemented for these nurses to maintain their mental health, thus enabling them to better serve patients.
Impact of baseline SARS-CoV-2 antibody status on syndromic surveillance and the risk of subsequent COVID-19—a prospective multicenter cohort study
Authors: Kohler Philipp , Güsewell Sabine , Seneghini Marco , Egger Thomas , Leal Onicio , Brucher Angela , Lemmenmeier Eva , Möller J. Carsten , Rieder Philip , Ruetti Markus , Stocker Reto , Vuichard-Gysin Danielle , Wiggli Benedikt , Besold Ulrike , Kuster Stefan P. , McGeer Allison , Risch Lorenz , Friedl Andrée , Schlegel Matthias , Vernazza Pietro , Kahlert Christian R.
Published: October 2021

Background

In a prospective healthcare worker (HCW) cohort, we assessed the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection according to baseline serostatus.

Methods

Baseline serologies were performed among HCW from 23 Swiss healthcare institutions between June and September 2020, before the second COVID-19 wave. Participants answered weekly electronic questionnaires covering information about nasopharyngeal swabs (PCR/rapid antigen tests) and symptoms compatible with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Screening of symptomatic staff by nasopharyngeal swabs was routinely performed in participating facilities. We compared numbers of positive nasopharyngeal tests and occurrence of COVID-19 symptoms between HCW with and without anti-nucleocapsid antibodies.

Results

A total of 4812 HCW participated, wherein 144 (3%) were seropositive at baseline. We analyzed 107,807 questionnaires with a median follow-up of 7.9 months. Median number of answered questionnaires was similar (24 vs. 23 per person, P = 0.83) between those with and without positive baseline serology. Among 2712 HCW with ≥ 1 SARS-CoV-2 test during follow-up, 3/67 (4.5%) seropositive individuals reported a positive result (one of whom asymptomatic), compared to 547/2645 (20.7%) seronegative participants, 12 of whom asymptomatic (risk ratio [RR] 0.22; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07 to 0.66). Seropositive HCWs less frequently reported impaired olfaction/taste (6/144, 4.2% vs. 588/4674, 12.6%, RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.15–0.73), chills (19/144, 13.2% vs. 1040/4674, 22.3%, RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.39–0.90), and limb/muscle pain (28/144, 19.4% vs. 1335/4674, 28.6%, RR 0.68 95% CI 0.49–0.95). Impaired olfaction/taste and limb/muscle pain also discriminated best between positive and negative SARS-CoV-2 results.

Conclusions

Having SARS-CoV-2 anti-nucleocapsid antibodies provides almost 80% protection against SARS-CoV-2 re-infection for a period of at least 8 months.
Sulourea-coordinated Pd nanocubes for NIR-responsive photothermal/H2S therapy of cancer
Authors: Guo Xiaoyang , Liu Jia , Jiang Lingdong , Gong Wanjun , Wu Huixia , He Qianjun
Published: October 2021

Background

Photothermal therapy (PTT) frequently cause thermal resistance in tumor cells by inducing the heat shock response, limiting its therapeutic effect. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) with appropriate concentration can reverse the Warburg effect in cancer cells. The combination of PTT with H2S gas therapy is expected to achieve synergistic tumor treatment.

Methods

Here, sulourea (Su) is developed as a thermosensitive/hydrolysable H2S donor to be loaded into Pd nanocubes through in-depth coordination for construction of the Pd-Su nanomedicine for the first time to achieve photo-controlled H2S release, realizing the effective combination of photothermal therapy and H2S gas therapy.

Results

The Pd-Su nanomedicine shows a high Su loading capacity (85 mg g−1), a high near-infrared (NIR) photothermal conversion efficiency (69.4%), and NIR-controlled H2S release by the photothermal-triggered hydrolysis of Su. The combination of photothermal heating and H2S produces a strong synergetic effect by H2S-induced inhibition of heat shock response, thereby effectively inhibiting tumor growth. Moreover, high intratumoral accumulation of the Pd-Su nanomedicine after intravenous injection also enables photothermal/photoacoustic dual-mode imaging-guided tumor treatment.

Conclusions

The proposed NIR-responsive heat/H2S release strategy provides a new approach for effective cancer therapy.

Graphic abstract
Circ_0026416 downregulation blocks the development of colorectal cancer through depleting MYO6 expression by enriching miR-545-3p
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yu Ranran , Li Chunhua , Dang Yu , Yi Xiaoyu , Wang Lei
Published: October 2021

Background

Emerging evidence reveals that the initiation and development of human cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC), are associated with the deregulation of circular RNAs (circRNAs). Our study intended to disclose the role of circ_0026416 in the malignant behaviors of CRC.

Methods

The detection for circ_0026416 expression, miR-545-3p expression, and myosin VI (MYO6) mRNA expression was performed using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, transwell assay, and flow cytometry assay were applied for functional analysis to monitor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. The protein levels of MYO6 and epithelial mesenchymal-transition (EMT) markers were detected by western blot. Mouse models were used to determine the role of circ_0026416 in vivo. The potential relationship between miR-545-3p and circ_0026416 or MYO6 was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay.

Results

The expression of circ_0026416 was increased in CRC tumor tissues and cell lines. Circ_0026416 downregulation inhibited CRC cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, and EMT but induced cell apoptosis in vitro, and circ_0026416 knockdown also blocked tumor growth in vivo. MiR-545-3p was a target of circ_0026416, and rescue experiments indicated that circ_0026416 knockdown blocked CRC development by enriching miR-545-3p. In addition, miR-545-3p targeted MYO6 and inhibited MYO6 expression. MiR-545-3p enrichment suppressed CRC cell malignant behaviors by sequestering MYO6. Importantly, circ_0026416 knockdown depleted MYO6 expression by enriching miR-545-3p.

Conclusion

Circ_0026416 downregulation blocked the development of CRC through depleting MYO6 expression by enriching miR-545-3p.

Highlights

Circ_0026416 downregulation inhibits CRC development in vitro and in vivo.

Circ_0026416 regulates the expression of MYO6 by targeting miR-545-3p.

Circ_0026416 governs the miR-545-3p/MYO6 axis to regulate CRC progression.
Treatment outcomes among adults with HIV/non-communicable disease multimorbidity attending integrated care clubs in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Gausi Blessings , Berkowitz Natacha , Jacob Nisha , Oni Tolu
Published: October 2021

Background

The growing burden of the HIV and non-communicable disease (NCD) syndemic in Sub- Saharan Africa has necessitated introduction of integrated models of care in order to leverage existing HIV care infrastructure for NCDs. However, there is paucity of literature on treatment outcomes for multimorbid patients attending integrated care. We describe 12-month treatment outcomes among multimorbid patients attending integrated antiretroviral treatment (ART) and NCD clubs in Cape Town, South Africa.

Methods

As part of an integrated clubs (IC) model pilot implemented in 2016 by the local government at two primary health care clinics in Cape Town, we identified all multimorbid patients who were enrolled for IC for at least 12 months by August 2017. Mean adherence percentages (using proxy of medication collection and attendance of club visits) and optimal disease control (defined as the proportion of participants achieving optimal blood pressure, glycosylated haemoglobin control and HIV viral load suppression where appropriate) were calculated at 12 months before, at the point of IC enrolment and 12 months after IC enrolment. Predictors of NCD control 12 months post IC enrolment were investigated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

As of 31 August 2017, 247 HIV-infected patients in total had been enrolled into IC for at least 12 months. Of these, 221 (89.5%) had hypertension, 4 (1.6%) had diabetes mellitus and 22 (8.9%) had both diseases. Adherence was maintained before and after IC enrolment with mean adherence percentages of 92.2% and 94.2% respectively. HIV viral suppression rates were 98.6%, 99.5% and 99.4% at the three time points respectively. Retention in care was high with 6.9% lost to follow up at 12 months post IC enrolment. Across the 3 time-points, optimal blood pressure control was achieved in 43.1%, 58.9% and 49.4% of participants while optimal glycaemic control was achieved in 47.4%, 87.5% and 53.3% of participants with diabetes respectively. Multivariable logistic analyses showed no independent variables significantly associated with NCD control.

Conclusion

Multimorbid adults living with HIV achieved high levels of HIV control in integrated HIV and NCD clubs. However, intensified interventions are needed to maintain NCD control in the long term.
The application of orthodontic bone stretching for correcting malpositioned dental implants
Authors: Bousquet Philippe , Barthélemi Stéphane , Artz Christèle , Delsol Laurent
Published: October 2021

Background

Dental implants are sometimes initially placed in a wrong position leading to esthetic damage, which is difficult to solve with prosthetics. Moreover, implants placed in the anterior sector, like ankylosed teeth, are frequently found in a wrong position over time with infraocclusion because of continuous anterior alveolar growth. Different treatments have been proposed to manage the consequences of malpositioned dental implants.

Case presentation

This paper describes a surgical and orthodontic new procedure that can be used to relocate an implant in a wrong position: the Orthodontic Bone Stretching technique (OBS), which involves deep partial osteotomies combined with heavy orthodontic forces. The applied force facilitates esthetic rehabilitation with a movement towards the occlusal plane and can modify the implant axis and the gingival line alignment. This relocation is made possible thanks to a bone stretching phenomenon in the surgical area without immediate mobilization or repositioning of an alveolar segment. Three cases with the need for implant repositioning are presented here and were treated with the OBS technique.

Conclusion

In the three cases presented, implant relocation was successfully performed with the OBS technique and the prosthetic crown was modified to improve esthetic results.
Circ_0045714/miR-331-3p interaction affects IL-1β-evoked human articular chondrocyte injury through regulating PIK3R3 in a ceRNA regulatory cascade
Authors: Ding Ran , Zhou Jinsong , Xu Jianguo , Lu Huajie , Zhang Tingting , Xiang Xiong , Shi Zhen
Published: October 2021

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by joint pain and joint function limitation. Hsa_circ_0045714 (circ_0045714) is a novel OA-related circular RNA. However, its repertoire remains to be further clarified in joint chondrocytes.

Methods

RNA and protein expression levels and inflammatory factor levels were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined by colony formation assay, cell counting kit-8 assay and apoptosis assay. Direct interaction was predicted by bioinformatics method and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Expression of circ_0045714 and phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) regulatory subunit 3 (PIK3R3) was declined, and microRNA (miR)-331-3p was promoted in knee articular cartilages and cells from OA patients, as well as interleukin (IL)-1β-challenged human articular chondrocytes (HAC) cell line. In stimulation of IL-1β, HAC cells showed a loss of colony formation ability, cell viability and expression of Bcl-2 and Collagen II, allied with an increase in apoptosis rate and levels of IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor-α, Bcl-2-associated X protein, cleaved caspase-3, and ADAM with thrombospondin motif-5. Noticeably, overexpressing circ_0045714 and inhibiting miR-331-3p could suppress IL-1β-evoked these effects, and both were through up-regulating PIK3R3, a key gene in PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Mechanically, circ_0045714 functioned as competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-331-3p and further regulated expression of the downstream target gene PIK3R3.

Conclusion

There was a novel circ_0045714/miR-331-3p/PIK3R3 ceRNA axis in HAC, and its inhibition might be one mechanism of HAC injury in OA.
Genetic grouping and geographic distribution of Piscine orthoreovirus-1 (PRV-1) in farmed Atlantic salmon in Norway
Authors: Vatne Nina A. , Stormoen Marit , Lund Morten , Devold Magnus , Rimstad Espen , Wessel Øystein
Published: October 2021

Piscine orthoreovirus-1 (PRV-1) is the causative agent of heart and skeletal muscle inflammation (HSMI) in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). However, it has been shown that PRV-1 variants differ in their ability to induce HSMI. The objective of this work was to identify the PRV-1 variants in Norwegian aquaculture and their geographical distribution. Sequencing and subsequent analysis of the five genomic segments (S1, S4, M2, L1 and L2) putatively linked to virulence, made out the basis of the study. Thirty-seven Norwegian PRV-1 isolates were sequenced, and they grouped into eight genogroups based on combinations of the five analyzed genomic segments. Two groups were defined as high-virulent and two low-virulent, based on comparison with PRV-1 reference isolates with known virulence. The remaining four groups were of unknown virulence. The geographic distribution indicated a higher frequency of the high-virulent isolates in the mid- and northern regions. The present study confirms circulation of both high- and low-virulent isolates of PRV-1 in farmed Atlantic salmon in Norway. To reduce the impact of PRV-1 related disease, detection and differentiation between high- and low-virulent genogroups of PRV-1 could be a targeted approach for reduction of high-virulent variants.
Certain fractional formulas of the extended k-hypergeometric functions
Authors: Abdalla Mohamed , Boulaaras Salah , Akel Mohamed , Idris Sahar Ahmed , Jain Shilpi
Published: October 2021

In this article, we aim to investigate various formulae for the $(p,k)$
(
p
,
k
)
-analogues of Gauss hypergeometric functions, including the integral transforms and the operators of fractional calculus. All the outcomes presented here are of general attractiveness and can yield a number of previous works as special cases.