bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cytomegalovirus immune globulin (CMVIG) prophylaxis is associated with increased survival after orthotopic liver transplantation
Authors: Falagas Matthew E. , Snydman David R. , Ruthazer Robin , Griffith John , Werner Barbara G. , Freeman Richard , Rohrer Richard ,   Boston Center for Liver Transplantation CMVIG Study Group
Published: September 2024

AbstractCytomegalovirus (CMV) causes considerable morbidity and mortality in orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) recipients. Several prophylactic strategies against CMV have been studied in solid organ transplant recipients, including cytomegalovirus immune globulin (CMVIG). We examined the effect of CMVIG prophylaxis on first‐year and long‐term survival after liver transplantation. Data were analysed for 162 OLT recipients from four transplant centers in Boston who participated in two CMVIG prophylaxis trials. Ninety patients received CMVIG (median follow‐up 5.6 yr), and 72 patients received placebo (median follow‐up 5.4 yr). CMVIG prophylaxis was shown to be associated with increased first‐year (86% vs. 72%, p=0.029) and long‐term (68% vs. 54%, p=0.055) survival. The distribution of baseline characteristics including donor and recipient demographics, donor CMV serostatus, United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) status, pre‐transplant renal and liver function tests, transplantation surgical time, number of units of blood products administered during transplantation, primary immunosuppressive regimen, use of solumedrol or antilymphocyte therapy for induction of immunosuppression or treatment of rejection, and surgical complications was similar for CMVIG and placebo recipients. CMVIG recipients were more likely to have primary biliary cirrhosis than placebo recipients (21% vs. 8%, p=0.025). Using a Cox proportional hazards multivariate model to control for pre‐transplant liver disease, CMVIG was shown to be independently associated with increased first‐year survival (p=0.042); a trend toward association with increased long‐term survival (p=0.098) was also shown. These data support that CMVIG prophylaxis, beyond its proven efficacy in decreasing the incidence of severe CMV‐associated disease, is associated with increased survival when used prophylactically in OLT recipients.
Thrombocytopenia in an established solitary pancreas graft recipient
Authors: Benedetti Enrico , Kirby John P. , Asolati Massimo , Mihalov Michael L. , Ghosh Luna , Pollak Raymond 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIsolated, life‐threatening thrombocytopenia from a previously well tolerated pancreas allograft has not been reported in the literature. Herein we report such a case where a 31‐year‐old, Caucasian, Type I diabetic male developed severe thrombocytopenia 6 months following isolated pancreas transplantation and 2 wk after enteric conversion of the graft. Despite extensive diagnostic work‐up, the cause remained unclear and his thrombocytopenia did not remit with standard treatment, but did resolve upon explantation. Pathologic examination of the pancreatic graft showed evidence of chronic rejection along with CMV pancreatitis. We conclude that unremitting isolated thrombocytopenia in solitary pancreas grafts may reflect a localized DIC phenomenon that requires graft explantation.
Equivalence of cyclosporine blood level assays in patients receiving cyclosporine microemulsion or cyclosporine
Authors: Pescovitz Mark D. , Wong Robert L. , Choc M. Gerry , Chang Cheng Tao ,   Sandoz Neoral Study Group N103
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe more rapid absorption of the cyclosporin A (CyA) microemulsion formulation (Neoral, NEO) compared to Sandimmune (SIM) might bypass intestinal metabolism resulting in differing amounts of CyA metabolites in blood as compared to SIM. If true, then CyA levels obtained with a CyA monoclonal antibody assay (TDx) that has metabolite cross‐reactivity might differ depending on the CyA formulation received by the patient, thereby affecting safety and efficacy. Fifty‐one NEO vs. 50 SIM treated de novo renal transplant recipients from a multicenter double‐blind randomized trial had morning, whole‐blood, trough‐samples obtained at the ends of weeks 1, 4, 8, and 12 post‐transplant assayed for CyA by HPLC and TDx. The slopes (ratio of TDx value to HPLC value) for the regression. lines between TDx and HPLC levels as a function of time post‐transplant and CyA formulation were determined using a general linear model. For NEO, the slopes at each week (1.21‐1.41 × HPLC) did not differ significantly (p=0.82). For SIM, the week 1 slope (1.2) was significantly (p=0.006) less than the other weeks (1.4‐1.44). The slopes (NEO vs. SIM) were not different at either week 1 (1.21 vs. 1.22, p=0.82) or at pooled weeks 4, 8, and 12 (1.33 vs. 1.4, p= 0.1). These results indicate that despite the improved absorption, TDx values obtained on NEO are qualitatively similar to those obtained on SIM.
DNA Vaccines
Authors: Reimann Jörg , Schirmbeck Reinhold 
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives:Humoral and cellular immune responses to protein antigens can be efficiently primed by nucleic acid or DNA vaccination. In DNA‐based vaccination, immunogenic proteins are expressed with correct posttranslational modification, conformation or oligomerization; this ensures the integrity of epitopes that stimulate neutralizing antibody (B cell) responses. DNA (or RNA) immunization is exceptionally potent in stimulating T cell responses because antigenic peptides are efficiently generated in (endogenous or exogenous) processing pathways (without interference by viral proteins) from intracellular or extracellular protein antigens expressed after transient in vivo transfection. Both features are difficult to achieve with recombinant subunit vaccines produced in eukaryotic or prokaryotic expression systems. The current state of vector designs, strategies for delivery of DNA vaccines, priming humoral and cellular immune responses by DNA vaccines, experimental strategies facilitated by DNA vaccines, unique advantages of DNA vaccination, experience of DNA vaccination in preclincal animal models and clinical trials, and potential risks of DNA vaccination are discussed. Excellent reviews on DNA‐based vaccination have been published recently [1‐3].
Trigger for Platelet Transfusion
Authors: Rebulla Paolo 
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives:The terms ‘platelet transfusion trigger’ are used in the scientific literature to indicate a value of the platelet count above which prophylactic platelet transfusion is usually not indicated. Most clinicians share the currently prevalent consensus published in several guidelines that a platelet transfusion trigger of 10,000 platelets per microliter is safe in stable oncohematology recipients carefully monitored at both the clinical and laboratory levels. whereas higher values may be necessary in patients with high fever, infection, splenomegaly, rapid platelet count decrease, on drugs able to affect platelet function and survival, in cases undergoing invasive maneuvers and in some pediatric patients such as premature newborns. The safety of this policy is supported by the results obtained in several randomized clinical trials and prolonged observational studies. Lowering the platelet transfusion trigger from the traditional value set at 20,000 platelets per microliter to the currently recommended value of 10,000 per microliter further stresses the importance of high‐quality, sufficient and prompt platelet availability and close cooperation between clinicians and blood transfusion specialists. Furthermore, it requires a clear understanding of the discriminatory power of current automated hematology counters at very low platelet counts. In the surgical setting. where randomized clinical trials on the most appropriate platelet transfusion trigger are largely missing, current guidelines propose to maintain higher platelet count values (50.000‐100,000 per microliter) during surgery and in the carly postoperative period.
The Influence of Patient–Provider Communication on Self‐Management Among Patients With Chronic Illness: A Systematic Mixed Studies Review
Authors: Iroegbu Christin , Tuot Delphine S. , Lewis Lisa , Matura Lea Ann 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTAimTo explore the influence of patient–provider communication on patient self‐management of chronic illness.DesignSystematic Mixed Studies Review.Data SourcesCINAHL, Google Scholar, EMBASE and PubMed were searched until March 2024.MethodsEmployed a result‐based convergent design and the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool to evaluate studies. Narrative analysis, quantitative studies and thematic analysis for qualitative studies and overall results.ResultsThirteen articles published between 2003 and 2023 were included. Chronic illnesses studied: diabetes, heart failure, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. Data synthesis yielded the overarching theme: adaptive interpersonal communication. An approach that adapts communication content to each patient's unique needs, employs verbal and nonverbal communication, builds a connection and establishes patient rapport.ConclusionAvailable evidence suggests that patient–provider communication influences chronic illness self‐management. A provider's ability to adjust and tailor their communication style is an important factor in helping patients to achieve optimal self‐management. Future research should explore this phenomenon in other common chronic illnesses not included in this review. Additionally, research on the patient's role in this process could help improve patient–provider communication.Implications for the Profession and/or Patient CareFindings from this review have significant implications for shared and participatory decision making, where patients and providers collaborate to develop plans of care for patients to achieve optimal self‐management. Additionally, this review can contribute to the development of educational content and communication strategies for nurses and all healthcare professionals caring for patients with chronic illnesses.ImpactThis is the first mixed studies systematic review to describe the influence patient–provider communication on patient self‐management of chronic illness. These findings consolidate existing evidence, providing a pathway for practical application to clinical practice and the potential to significantly impact the delivery of patient‐centred care and healthcare quality.Patient or Public ContributionNo patient or public contribution.
Optimal blood pressure control with fewer antihypertensive medications: Achieved mostly in low‐risk hypertensive patients
Authors: Zhou Zhanyang , Miao Huanhuan , Yang Shijie , Yin Zheng , Chen Yingjun , Zhang Yuqing 
Published: September 2024

AbstractRecent studies indicate that intensive blood pressure (BP) targets can be reached with less than two medications. This cross‐sectional study, involving 4991 individuals from the Majiapu community, assessed the correlation between BP control and the burden of antihypertensive drugs. Participants on medication were categorized into controlled (BP < 140/90 mm Hg) and uncontrolled (BP ≥ 140/90 mm Hg) groups, with the former further divided into optimal (BP < 130/80 mm Hg) and good control (BP < 140/90 but >130/80 mm Hg) subgroups. Multivariate logistic regression analyzed factors affecting hypertension control across these BP categories. The study found that, 54% of participants had hypertension. Of those treated (62.5%), 55.7% achieved BP control, including 23.15% maintaining BP below 130/80 mm Hg. The average number of antihypertensive medications was 1.61 for the controlled group (with an average BP of 126.6/76 mm Hg) and 1.75 for the uncontrolled group (with an average BP of 150.6/84.0 mm Hg). Additionally, the average number of antihypertensive medications was 1.66 in the good control group and 1.55 in the optimal control group. The uncontrolled group had a higher mean systematic coronary risk estimation (SCORE) of 5.59, against 3.97 and 2.5 in the good and optimal control groups, respectively. Key factors linked to poor BP control included age over 65, male sex, obesity, and former smoking, whereas lipid‐lowering medication use was associated with better control. In conclusions, patients needing fewer antihypertensive drugs to achieve stricter targets may have a lower risk profile. Notably, only a small proportion of treated patients are low‐risk individuals who can easily achieve BP levels below 130/80 mm Hg.
Super‐resolved highly multiplexed immunofluorescence imaging for precise protein localization and podocyte ultrastructure
Authors: Siegerist Florian , Kitzel Svenja , Telli Nihal , Dikou Juan Saydou , Drenić Vedran , Chadjichristos Christos E. , Chatziantoniou Christos , Endlich Nicole 
Published: September 2024

AbstractDeep insights into the complex cellular and molecular changes occurring during (patho‐)physiological conditions are essential for understanding the interactions and regulation of proteins. This understanding is crucial for research and diagnostics. However, the effectiveness of conventional immunofluorescence and light microscope, tools for visualizing the spatial distribution of cells or proteins, are limited both in resolution and multiplexity in complex tissues. This is mainly due to challenges such as the spectral overlap of fluorophore wavelengths, a limited range of antibody types, the inherent variability of samples and the optical resolution limit. The herein demonstrated combination of multiplex immunofluorescence imaging and super resolution microscopy offers a solution to these limitations by enabling the identification of different cell types and precise subcellular localization of proteins in tissue sections. In this study, we demonstrate the cyclic staining and de‐staining of paraffin kidney sections, making it suitable for routine use and compatible with super‐resolution microscopy for podocyte ultrastructural studies. We have further developed a computerized workflow for data processing which is accessible through available reagents and open‐access code. As a proof of principle, we identified CDH2 as a marker for cellular lesions of sclerotic glomeruli in the nephrotoxic serum nephritis mouse model and cross‐validated this finding with a human Nephroseq dataset indicating its translatability. In summary, our work represents an advance in multiplex imaging, which is crucial for understanding the localization of numerous proteins in a single FFPE kidney section and the compatibility with super‐resolution microscopy to study ultrastructural changes of podocytes.
Melatonin regulates mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy: Cardiovascular protection
Authors: Rahmani Sohrab , Roohbakhsh Ali , Pourbarkhordar Vahid , Hayes A. Wallace , Karimi Gholamreza 
Published: September 2024

AbstractDespite extensive progress in the knowledge and understanding of cardiovascular diseases and significant advances in pharmacological treatments and procedural interventions, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death globally. Mitochondrial dynamics refers to the repetitive cycle of fission and fusion of the mitochondrial network. Fission and fusion balance regulate mitochondrial shape and influence physiology, quality and homeostasis. Mitophagy is a process that eliminates aberrant mitochondria. Melatonin (Mel) is a pineal‐synthesized hormone with a range of pharmacological properties. Numerous nonclinical trials have demonstrated that Mel provides cardioprotection against ischemia/reperfusion, cardiomyopathies, atherosclerosis and cardiotoxicity. Recently, interest has grown in how mitochondrial dynamics contribute to melatonin cardioprotective effects. This review assesses the literature on the protective effects of Mel against CVD via the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy in both in‐vivo and in‐vitro studies. The signalling pathways underlying its cardioprotective effects were reviewed. Mel modulated mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy proteins by upregulation of mitofusin, inhibition of DRP1 and regulation of mitophagy‐related proteins. The evidence supports a significant role of Mel in mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy quality control in CVD.
LncRNA ALMS1‐IT1 modulates ferroptosis and immune evasion in colorectal cancer through activating STAT3
Authors: Wu Zhaoying , Zou Junwei , Xie Hao , Wang Jie , Huang Yong , Liu Fei , Xing Chungen 
Published: September 2024

AbstractColorectal cancer (CRC) represents a significant malignancy within the digestive system, characterized by high incidence and mortality rates. In recent years, molecular targeted therapy has been introduced as a supplementary strategy in CRC management, complementing traditional modalities such as surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. The identification of novel therapeutic targets for CRC remains critically important. Ferroptosis, a unique form of programmed cell death distinct from apoptosis and necrosis, is characterized by cellular damage resulting from iron‐induced lipid peroxidation, leading to cell death. This study utilizes a combination of bioinformatics analysis and clinical specimen validation to demonstrate that the long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) ALMS1‐IT1 is significantly upregulated in CRC tissues and strongly associated with ferroptosis. Through a series of experimental investigations, we have determined that ALMS1‐IT1 negatively regulates ferroptosis in CRC cells, thereby promoting cancer growth and metastasis, acting as an oncogenic factor. Furthermore, we explored the molecular interactions of ALMS1‐IT1, revealing its role in activating STAT3 protein phosphorylation. This activation enhances the immune evasion capabilities of CRC cells. Rescue experiments indicated that STAT3 activation is essential for ALMS1‐IT1's suppression of ferroptosis, immune evasion and oncogenic behaviour in CRC. Our findings underscore the critical biological role of ALMS1‐IT1 in the progression of CRC and suggest its potential as a target for drug development.
Modified oxymatrine as novel therapeutic inhibitors against Monkeypox and Marburg virus through computational drug design approaches
Authors: Islam Md. Rezaul , Biswas Suvro , Amena Ummy , Rahman Miadur , Islam Shirmin , Islam Md. Ariful , Saleh Md. Abu , Hassan Hesham M. , Al‐Emam Ahmed , Zaki Magdi E. A. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractGlobal impact of viral diseases specially Monkeypox (mpox) and Marburg virus, emphasizing the urgent need for effective drug interventions. Oxymatrine is an alkaloid which has been selected and modified using various functional groups to enhance its efficacy. The modifications were evaluated using various computatioanal analysis such as pass prediction, molecular docking, ADMET, and molecular dynamic simulation. Mpox and Marburg virus were chosen as target diseases based on their maximum pass prediction spectrum against viral disease. After that, molecular docking, dynamic simulation, DFT, calculation and ADMET prediction were determined. The main objective of this study was to enhance the efficacy of oxymatrine derivatives through functional group modifications and computational analyses to develop effective drug candidates against mpox and Marburg viruses. The calculated binding affinities indicated strong interactions against both mpox virus and Marburg virus. After that, the molecular dynamic simulation was conducted at 100 ns, which confirmed the stability of the binding interactions between the modified oxymatrine derivatives and target proteins. Then, the modified oxymatrine derivatives conducted theoretical ADMET profiling, which demonstrated their potential for effective drug development. Moreover, HOMO‐LUMO calculation was performed to understand the chemical reactivity and physicochemical properties of compounds. This computational analysis indicated that modified oxymatrine derivatives for the treatment of mpox and Marburg virus suggested effective drug candidates based on their binding affinity, drug‐like properties, stability and chemical reactivity. However, further experimental validation is necessary to confirm their clinical value and efficacy as therapeutic candidates.
Women's Experiences of Intimate and Sexual Relationships During Menopause: A Qualitative Synthesis
Authors: Bulut Hatice , Hinchliff Sharron , Ali Parveen , Piercy Hilary 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTAimThe aim of this literature review was to explore women's experiences of their intimate and sexual relationships during menopause.BackgroundEvidence shows that the menopause transition can be a difficult time for women due to symptoms of menopause. There is little research evidence about how menopause‐related symptoms impact women's intimate and sexual relationships.MethodA qualitative synthesis was carried out on research published between May 2005 and July 2023 using five electronic databases: ASSIA, CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science. We also searched Google Scholar and used backward and forward chaining methods to identify results not listed in the databases and ensure that no relevant literature was omitted.ResultsEighteen qualitative studies were included in this review. Six main themes were identified: the meaning of menopause to women in different cultures; factors affecting women's sexual lives; changes in sexual desire and orgasm; talking about sexual issues; women's attempts to overcome the impact of ageing and menopause on their sexual lives; and concerns about partner sexual satisfaction during the menopause.ConclusionDuring the menopause transition, women can experience sexual difficulties that have an impact on their lives and intimate relationships. Qualitative studies showed that sexual changes associated with menopause can be difficult to manage and must be viewed in the social and cultural contexts of the women's lives.Relevance to Clinical PracticeThe results of this review will be of interest to nurses to assess patient needs while offering health services to women in menopause. In addition, the results can be used to inform education and support programmes for women.Reporting MethodWe have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines and used the PRISMA‐ScR reporting method. No patient or public contribution was required for this study.
Reliability of the Assessment of Tooth Wear Severity on Dental Hard Tissues and Dental Restorations, Using the TWES 2.0, by Nonexperts
Authors: Roehl Jakob C. , Katzer Lukasz , Jakstat Holger A. , Wetselaar Peter , Ahlers M. Oliver 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundTooth wear is a multifactorial process resulting in the loss of dental hard tissues. For its assessment, the tooth wear evaluation system (TWES) 2.0 has been published. Previous studies on the TWES involved well‐trained practitioners, rather than nonexperts.ObjectiveThe first aim of this study was to investigate the reliability of the assessment of tooth wear severity on dental hard tissues, using the TWES 2.0, by nonexperts. The second aim was to investigate the reliability of assessment of wear severity on dental restorations, using a third scale.MethodsForty‐seven dental students evaluated at least 9 of 14 possible patient cases on dental casts and intraoral photographs. Cohen's kappa (agreement with sample solution) and Fleiss' kappa (Inter‐rater reliability) were calculated.ResultsThe agreements of the operators' ratings compared to the sample‐solution resulted in Cohen's kappa between 0.02 and 0.9. The agreements were 0.34 for occlusal; 0.43 for vestibular; 0.57 for oral surfaces.Inter‐rater reliability (Fleiss' kappa) was 0.35 for occlusal, 0.17 for vestibular and 0.24 for oral assessment. The inter‐rater reliability of the ratings on tooth surfaces with restorations was lower with 0.21 (occlusal), 0.14 (vestibular) and 0.39 (oral). The agreement on different restorations differed tremendously.ConclusionsThe ability to correctly assess the cases varied considerably between individual examiners. Within the limits of this study, assessment of restorations was slightly more challenging compared to natural teeth, particularly in occlusal regions or when the restorative material is gold. Subsequent studies should address whether enhanced training and improved definition of tooth wear grades result in higher reliability scores.